Android Support Archives

Winsage

June 28, 2025

5 reasons I prefer this distro over Ubuntu as a Windows-to-Linux convert

Transitioning from Windows to Linux can be challenging due to the variety of distributions available. Users often experiment with different options using virtual machines or dual-boot setups. Ubuntu is a popular choice, especially within the Windows Subsystem for Linux and Hyper-V, but Zorin OS is highlighted as a more seamless alternative for users familiar with Windows. Zorin OS provides a desktop experience similar to Windows, making it user-friendly for new Linux users. It allows customization of the taskbar's position, reminiscent of earlier Windows versions. Zorin OS also supports running Windows applications through preconfigured Wine and Bottles, simplifying the process compared to Ubuntu. Zorin OS performs well on older hardware, with its Lite version using the XFCE desktop environment to enhance responsiveness, unlike Ubuntu, which can be sluggish on legacy systems. Zorin Connect enables integration with Android devices, allowing users to sync notifications and control their desktop from mobile devices. Zorin OS is noted for its minimalist approach, optimizing resource usage and avoiding unnecessary applications, particularly in its Lite version. The author currently prefers Zorin OS over Ubuntu Core for its user-friendly design and performance but remains open to exploring other Linux distributions.

AppWizard

June 26, 2025

Swift, a coding language developed by Apple, is working to add Android support

Apple is forming an "Android Working Group" to support its Swift programming language for Android app development. This marks a shift in Apple's strategy, as Swift, previously focused on iOS and macOS, will now be officially supported for Android. The group's objectives include enhancing Android support for Swift, proposing improvements to core Swift packages, collaborating with the Platform Steering Group, establishing supported Android API levels, creating a continuous integration framework for testing, identifying best practices for bridging Swift with Android's Java SDK, developing debugging support, and integrating Android support into community-driven Swift packages. This initiative represents Apple's formal commitment to facilitating Swift's use on the Android platform.

AppWizard

March 21, 2025

Huawei Pura X flip phone launched; sideways form factor, no Android apps

Huawei has launched the Huawei Pura X smartphone in China, which is the first Huawei device to operate without Android, using HarmonyOS Next instead. The Pura X does not support Android applications and does not offer a choice between Android and HarmonyOS. The phone features a 3.5-inch outer OLED screen, a 6.3-inch foldable OLED screen, and a triple rear camera system with a 50MP main sensor. It is powered by the Kirin 9020 chip, supports up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, and has a 4720mAh battery with fast charging capabilities. The device is priced at CNY 7499 (approximately ₹89,000) and is unlikely to be available in India due to its lack of Android compatibility.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Chrome OS vs. Windows 11 [Performance and Features]

Microsoft Windows and Google Chrome OS are the most widely adopted desktop operating systems. Windows 11 has stringent hardware requirements, such as TPM 2.0, but offers greater flexibility and compatibility with a wide array of devices. In contrast, Chrome OS is tied to its hardware, making transitions to Windows typically require a new device. Chrome OS supports Android applications and includes a built-in Linux virtual machine, allowing for some offline functionality and development tools, while also featuring Google Assistant. Windows 11 supports a vast range of software, offers browser choice, excels in gaming performance, and provides seamless compatibility with applications, including Linux GUI applications through the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

AppWizard

August 13, 2024

3D app and game design platform Spline raises $10M and extends support to Android – SiliconANGLE

Spline Inc. has secured funding in its latest Series A round, led by Third Point Ventures, with participation from Y Combinator, Gradient Ventures, Firestreak, and angel investors Jorn van Dijk and Guillermo Rauch. The startup has launched Android support, expanding its platform's collaborative capabilities for developers. Spline offers a no-code 3D design platform that allows users to create 3D content without extensive coding knowledge, featuring tools for 3D modeling, animation, material layers, sculpting, a physics engine, and generative AI. It claims to be the first platform enabling no-code 3D design specifically for Android applications. New features include a "Real-time API" for dynamic 3D creations and support for webhooks, enhancing interactivity and allowing integration with third-party tools. Spline aims to use the funding to further develop its platform and integrate more AI design capabilities.