Android platform

AppWizard
March 10, 2025
At MWC 2025, Google discussed its plans for Android 16, which will launch earlier than usual, specifically in Q2, allowing users to expect the update by June. The company aims to streamline Android updates and enhance support from OEMs, with a focus on longer software support. The Pixel series promises seven years of OS upgrades and security patches, and a collaboration with Qualcomm could extend this support to eight years for devices using Snapdragon 8 Elite and future 8-series and 7-series chips. Google is committed to improving the quality of updates, ensuring they enhance device performance.
AppWizard
February 20, 2025
The Amazon Appstore will close for Android devices on August 20, 2025, ending access to its applications for those users. After this date, downloaded apps may not function on Android devices. However, the Appstore will still be available on Amazon Fire devices. Developers will be unable to submit new apps for Android but can update existing ones until the closure. The Amazon Coins program will also end on the same date, with users needing to use any remaining Coins by then. This decision follows a similar shutdown of Appstore support on Windows, indicating Amazon's shift away from the Android platform while maintaining focus on its Fire-branded devices.
AppWizard
February 12, 2025
Apple is launching the Apple TV app for Android users with devices running Android version 10 or newer, allowing access to Apple TV+ content, live MLB and MLS games. The app features a design that aligns with Google's Material design and is organized into four categories: Apple TV+, MLS, Downloads, and Search. Users will receive personalized recommendations in the Apple TV+ section and can access Major League Soccer streams in the MLS section. The app allows subscriptions to Apple TV+ or MLS through the Google Play billing system, but lacks integration with other streaming services and does not include iTunes content or a "Continue Watching" feature for other platforms.
AppWizard
February 12, 2025
Apple TV+ is launching a dedicated app for Android users, marking a significant expansion beyond its primary focus on Apple device owners. The app is expected to be available soon, potentially increasing Apple's subscriber base by providing access to exclusive content for millions of Android users. This move comes as Apple invests heavily in original content, with production costs exceeding billion and some shows costing around million per episode. The standard pricing for Apple TV+ is .99 per month, and there is speculation about a potential free trial. In Q1 2025, Apple reported total revenue of .3 billion, with the Services sector contributing .34 billion, indicating growth from the previous year.
BetaBeacon
February 3, 2025
Mobile gaming has become a serious platform for gamers, allowing players to enjoy top PS5 titles on Android devices. One key advantage is the ability to engage in multiplayer battles with other players, offering a competitive edge to the gaming experience.
AppWizard
December 20, 2024
Google is releasing Android 16, which includes the WritingTools API that allows app developers to control the use of AI writing tools. The API introduces two methods: isWritingToolsEnabled() and setWritingToolsEnabled(), enabling applications to manage AI interactions with specific text fields. By default, AI writing tools are enabled, but developers can disable them in sensitive areas such as password fields and email addresses. This aims to standardize practices across Android keyboards, as not all third-party keyboards currently follow similar protocols. The API is part of a broader set of innovations in Android 16 Developer Preview 2, which also includes enhanced haptic controls, searchable cloud media items, and an adaptive refresh rate API.
AppWizard
December 19, 2024
Google has elevated Google Keep to the status of a system app with the release of Android 16 Developer Preview 2, meaning it can no longer be uninstalled through conventional methods. System apps are integral components of the operating system, and while users cannot remove them without rooting their devices, they can disable them. In Android 15 and earlier versions, Google Keep remains a standard app that can be uninstalled. The transition to a core app in Android 16 suggests that Google Keep will soon offer more robust features and deeper integration with the operating system. This change may also be linked to plans for a lock screen note-taking feature.
AppWizard
December 15, 2024
The upcoming launch of Android XR, featuring headsets developed by Samsung under the codename Project Moohan, is set for next year. These headsets will enable users to transition between immersive virtual environments and the real world, enhanced by an AI assistant named Gemini. Gemini will assist users in interacting with their surroundings and managing tasks. Google is also adapting popular applications for this headset experience, allowing users to watch YouTube and Google TV on a virtual big screen, view Google Photos in 3D, explore Google Maps in an Immersive View, manage multiple virtual screens with Chrome, and use Circle to Search for information. Android XR will support existing mobile and tablet applications from Google Play, with more tailored content expected to be released next year.
AppWizard
November 27, 2024
McAfee has identified 15 "predatory loan apps" on the Android platform that pose significant risks, having been downloaded over 8 million times globally. These apps exploit users through deceptive practices, often leading to financial distress. Users are advised to uninstall these applications, research apps before downloading, monitor app permissions, stay informed about cybersecurity news, and utilize security software for protection.
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