Android phone Archives

AppWizard

April 7, 2025

How to use the Files by Google app to free up storage on your Android phone

Many Android devices, including those from Samsung and Google, often come with 128GB or less of internal storage, highlighting the need for effective storage management. The Clean tool in the Files by Google app helps users manage storage by identifying outdated files for deletion. Users can access the Clean tool by opening the app, selecting the Clean tab, and following prompts to delete unnecessary files. To permanently free up space, users must also delete files from the Trash tab. Pixel phone users can enable Smart Storage, which automatically deletes media backed up to Google Photos that is older than 60 days. Regular storage maintenance is important to prevent running out of space, and the Files by Google app provides tools for monitoring and managing storage effectively.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Beware new Google ‘yellow warning’ that saves you from costly nightmare

Google has introduced a yellow warning banner in the Google Play Store to alert Android users about apps that are frequently uninstalled. This banner indicates that an app may not be meeting user expectations and could be due to poor functionality, excessive advertisements, or inflated costs. Additionally, Google has implemented two other notifications: one indicating lower user engagement with an app and another showing fewer users compared to other apps. These features aim to help users make more informed app choices and avoid potentially harmful applications. Google Play Protect is also available to scan downloaded apps for security, including those from outside the Play Store. Users can enable settings to improve harmful app detection, enhancing overall safety in the app ecosystem.

BetaBeacon

March 28, 2025

Backbone One Xbox Edition is now available for Android

The Backbone One Xbox Edition controller has officially launched, designed for streaming Xbox Game Pass titles on Android phones.

BetaBeacon

March 28, 2025

Ever wanted to play games on your Android Auto screen? There’s good news.

The latest beta version of Android Auto now supports a few games, including Angry Birds 2, Beach Buggy Racing, and Candy Crush Soda Saga.

AppWizard

March 23, 2025

Google issues urgent warning to delete 331 Android apps infected with malware

Google has blocked all software identified as problematic on its platform, but users who have previously downloaded these applications must remain vigilant, as the ban does not automatically remove the apps from their devices. The "Vapor" malware has misled millions and infiltrated devices through troubling applications available in Google's Play Store, affecting over 60 million devices globally. The IAS Threat Lab has identified Vapor as an extensive ad fraud scheme using fake Android apps to display intrusive ads and steal credit card information. Bitdefender has identified 331 apps, including QR scanners and fitness applications, as potential threats that display out-of-context ads and attempt phishing attacks. A list of compromised apps includes AquaTracker, ClickSave Downloader, Scan Hawk, Water Time Tracker, and Be More, each downloaded over 1 million times. Users are advised to exercise caution when installing new applications and verify the trustworthiness of developers.

BetaBeacon

March 22, 2025

This overkill Android Game Boy is better than my memories of the real thing

The AYANEO Pocket DMG is a luxury, Game Boy-styled handheld device that offers a classic vertical format for enjoying retro games.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11 gets a toggle to control connected Android devices

Phone Link is a tool that connects Windows machines and Android devices, allowing users to view photos and send messages. Microsoft is rolling out a new feature called "Phone Connection" as part of its Copilot AI, which replaces the previous Phone Plugin and enhances user experience. Phone Connection links Android devices to Copilot through Phone Link, enabling users to access data such as alarms, messages, and navigation functions from their desktops. Users can instruct Copilot to perform tasks on their mobile devices, but must accept commands sent from Copilot. This feature is optimized for Android 14 or newer and requires the Link to Windows Service app version 3.0.01.7 or later. The update is being rolled out gradually and can be accessed under Profile > Account.

AppWizard

March 17, 2025

If you have an Android device, you may be at risk – this malicious application steals all the information from your device

A spyware known as KoSpy, linked to North Korean hacking groups APT37 and APT43, was found disguised as a File Manager app on the Google Play Store. This malicious app accessed private data such as text messages, call logs, device location, stored files, and user keystrokes. It could also gather Wi-Fi network details, list installed applications, and record audio, capture images, and take screenshots without user awareness. The app was downloaded approximately a dozen times before Google removed it after security researchers raised concerns. Google Play Protect and additional security measures from smartphone manufacturers help protect Android devices from such threats. Users are advised to scrutinize app permissions and download apps from official sources to minimize risks.

BetaBeacon

March 11, 2025

Best VR Games to Play on Android Phone

Android VR gaming has become popular due to inexpensive hardware and Cardboard headsets starting at just Rs 500. The Play Store offers plenty of inexpensive or no-cost games for users to enjoy virtual reality. Phones like the OnePlus 13 with OLED screens and 12GB of RAM can meet VR standards with 90 FPS. Gaze controls have been embraced by developers, and 5G technology has improved multiplayer gaming. Despite limitations like 60-minute battery life and entry-level graphics, Android VR gaming has made immersive play accessible to over 3 billion users worldwide.

Winsage

March 9, 2025

Microsoft Teams is removing Android SMS integration on Windows 11

Microsoft Teams will transition from Skype, with an automatic migration process starting soon. The platform will remove the SMS messaging feature that allowed users to send and receive SMS through a linked Android device by April 2025. Users will need to use the Phone Link app for similar capabilities. Microsoft has begun notifying users about the discontinuation of SMS integration in Teams. To use the SMS feature, users needed a PC with Windows 11 and an Android phone with version 7.0 or newer, along with the "Link to Windows" app. The SMS messages would appear in the Chats section of Teams after linking the devices.