Android phones Archives

AppWizard

June 9, 2025

Don’t have any AI apps? These are the 5 you need to install right now

AI is increasingly integrated into daily life, with many people preferring chatbot interactions over traditional Google searches due to the nuanced responses provided by AI. ChatGPT from OpenAI has evolved significantly, with a recent Android app update that includes image generation and an interactive audio mode, making interactions feel more conversational. Gemini from Google processes information across various Google applications, offering users control over memory retention from previous interactions, although it may have privacy concerns. Claude from Anthropic has introduced the Claude 4 models in its mobile app, enhancing its coding capabilities and including voice features for all users. DeepSeek, a Chinese AI, offers free access and low-cost options, excelling in web search and deep reasoning, with an open-source version available for private use. PocketPal is a downloadable Android app that operates independently of the cloud, allowing users to access open-source AI models, with smaller models like Qwen3 designed for older devices. The landscape of smartphone AI chatbots is evolving, with major Android manufacturers investing in enhancing device capabilities.

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

You can now use Adobe’s Photoshop app on Android phones

The latest version of the Photoshop app features new tools powered by Firefly's generative AI technology, including Generative Fill and Generative Expand, which allow users to manipulate images easily. Users can stretch images, reconstruct missing parts, and eliminate unwanted elements. Advanced tools like Object Select, Clone Stamp, Content-Aware Fill, and the Remove Tool require a premium subscription priced at .99 per month or 9.88 annually.

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

Google says Instagram fixed a battery drain issue on Android

Instagram has released an update (version 382.0.0.49.84) to address battery drain issues affecting users of Pixel phones. This problem was reported after a Pixel software update earlier in the month and has impacted various Pixel models from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 9. Users can access the update through the Google Play Store, and those who do not see the update may already have the latest version installed.

AppWizard

May 27, 2025

Google’s most important new app may finally be getting tablet friendly (APK teardown)

Google is working on a redesigned user interface for its AI tool, Gemini, to better accommodate larger displays on tablets and foldable devices. An APK teardown suggests the new layout will include a collapsible side menu, accessible via a hamburger button, allowing users to navigate past queries without sacrificing screen space. This initiative aims to enhance user experience as foldable Android phones become more popular. The timeline for a public release of these enhancements is currently uncertain.

BetaBeacon

May 24, 2025

No English release? These fan-translated games are worth emulating

- Fans have been clamoring for an English version of Mother 3 since its release in 2006 - Enthusiasts translated the game into English and released a patch in 2008 - Game Boy Advance emulation is easy on Android phones and TV boxes - Super Robot Wars Alpha Gaiden was fan-translated for the PS1 - Ace Combat 3: Electrosphere had a different version in Japan with more content - Policenauts, directed by Hideo Kojima, was fan-translated years after its release - Tear Ring Saga, a spiritual successor to Fire Emblem, received an English translation patch in 2016 - King's Field, Monster Hunter, Namco x Capcom, and Marvelous are other Japan-only games that received fan translations.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

I got an early look at Wear OS 6 on the Pixel Watch 3 at Google I/O

Wear OS 6 was announced at I/O 2025, featuring a Pixel Watch 3 with a new Material 3 Expressive design and revamped Tiles. The update includes a 10% battery boost and improved performance over Wear OS 5, despite a more complex user interface. The redesigned Tiles are more dynamic, maintaining visual consistency with a 3-slot layout. Developers can customize the main content slot for various functions. Wear OS 6 introduces dynamic theming that integrates colors from watch faces, although some limitations exist with older faces. The Pixel Watch 3 is described as more engaging and dynamic compared to its predecessor, with further optimizations for apps and watch face stores pending.

BetaBeacon

May 20, 2025

Android phones can now play the legendary Windows XP Space Cadet pinball game for free

- The classic game "3D Pinball Space Cadet" from Windows XP has been ported to Android devices for free. - Developer Kyle Sylvertre brought the nostalgic game to Android using a GitHub decompilation of the original game by k4zmu2a. - The game is available on the Google Play Store for fans to enjoy, but users may need to scroll down or use a provided link to find the free version.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Android 16 is Google getting serious about foldables

Google recently launched Android 16, featuring significant user interface modifications and new animations, which have elicited mixed reactions from users. The update includes enhancements like improved network connectivity and security against malicious applications. The UI now dynamically adapts to user interactions, adding visual flair. During the Android Show, Google showcased various Android phones, with speculation about future tablet announcements at the I/O conference. The foldable phone market is currently dominated by Android devices, with expectations that foldables could become mainstream, despite challenges related to pricing and durability. Manufacturers are improving foldable designs to enhance resilience. As costs stabilize, foldables may replace traditional devices, offering multifunctional capabilities.

BetaBeacon

May 14, 2025

Android 16’s new 90:10 split-screen is a game-changer for multitasking

Google is introducing a new split-screen mode for Android 16, changing the ratio from 70:30 to 90:10. This allows one app to occupy 90% of the screen while leaving 10% for a secondary app. Tapping on the smaller app swaps the sizes of both apps, allowing for easy switching between them. This new feature promises to enhance multitasking capabilities on Android phones.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Google’s Find My Device gets a much-needed update

Google's Android operating system update on May 13 rebranded Find My Device to Find Hub, adding Ultra-Wideband (UWB) tag support and satellite connectivity for improved tracking. Google plans to partner with airlines to enable Bluetooth tag location sharing for lost luggage recovery, launching early next year. The update is part of the Android 16 revamp, which includes personalization options and the introduction of Material 3 Expressive. Additionally, Google I/O announced the transition from Google Assistant to Gemini Live across various platforms for a more intuitive AI experience.