Android tablets Archives

AppWizard

June 16, 2025

Gemini app switches to always available nav drawer on Android

Google is enhancing its Gemini app on Android by introducing a navigation drawer, similar to its web version. This update includes a hamburger button that reveals the drawer, featuring a "New chat" button, two recent Gems, and a link to "Explore Gems." The "Recent" history list now supports infinite scrolling, and pinned conversations are prioritized at the top. The navigation drawer can be accessed while viewing conversations or browsing other pages, sliding the main screen to the right. On Android tablets, the drawer opens automatically but can be hidden for a fullscreen experience. This feature is part of Google app version 16.23, currently in beta, and users may need to force stop the app to access the new features.

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.

AppWizard

April 4, 2025

Intel Unison, a powerful free app bridging Android phones and PCs, is shutting down

Intel Unison will cease operations on June 30, 2025. The app has been recognized for transforming Android tablets into external displays and allowing users to make calls, send texts, and transfer files from Windows PCs. While some features can be replicated with Microsoft Phone Link, many users prefer Intel Unison for its comprehensive experience. Lenovo Aura platforms will continue to support Intel Unison until the end of 2025. The app requires Windows 11 machines with at least version 22H2 and a minimum of a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, but it is also compatible with non-Intel machines. Certain Intel Evo 13th-generation and later devices came pre-installed with Intel Unison. Users will need to switch to Microsoft Phone Link for connectivity between Android devices and Windows PCs after the discontinuation.

BetaBeacon

March 27, 2025

Android Gaming: The Best Mobile Games and Accessories in 2025

Android gaming has evolved significantly in 2025, offering console-level titles, powerful chipsets, and higher refresh rate screens.

AppWizard

February 27, 2025

I turned my old Android tablet into a portable monitor, and you can too

A user repurposed an aging Android tablet as a portable monitor using an application called Super Display. This app connects Android devices to a Windows PC or laptop via USB or Wi-Fi, enhancing productivity by allowing the tablet to function as a third display. Super Display is noted for its ease of use, speed, and ability to support touch inputs, including stylus functionality, making it useful for artists. The app requires the installation of a Windows driver and an Android app, and it offers a three-day trial period, with a one-time purchase of .99 for lifetime access.

BetaBeacon

February 3, 2025

Three-Way Split-Screen: A Game-Changer for Android 16 and One UI 8

Android 16 could introduce a three-way split-screen mode for tablets, allowing users to run three apps simultaneously on a single screen. This feature, inspired by OnePlus' Open Canvas, aims to enhance multitasking capabilities for larger screens. Samsung's One UI 8, based on Android 16, may bring this feature to its tablets, improving productivity and app management for users. The introduction of this feature could revolutionize the way users interact with tablets, maximizing screen real estate and bringing Android tablets closer to competing with productivity-focused devices like iPads.

BetaBeacon

February 3, 2025

This major brand has a tool to run PC games, Steam on your Android tablet

Xiaomi has introduced a new tool called WinPlay for Android tablets, which allows users to play Windows games locally using three-layer virtualization technology. The tool is currently restricted to China as part of an internal beta program for the Xiaomi Pad 6s Pro, with no plans for a global launch in the short term.

BetaBeacon

February 3, 2025

Windows Games On Android? Xiaomi’s WinPlay Engine Enables PC Gaming On A Tablet

Xiaomi has introduced the WinPlay Engine, allowing users to play PC games on an Android tablet, specifically designed for the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4.

BetaBeacon

February 3, 2025

Xiaomi’s new WinPlay system will let you play Windows games on its Android tablets

Xiaomi is testing running Windows games on its Android tablets, with WinPlay supporting Steam and other storefronts, recruiting testers for the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 in China. The tablet has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and 8/12/16GB of RAM. Tomb Raider Game of the Year Edition runs at an average of 45fps with a total device power consumption of 8.3W. Need for Speed Most Wanted (Limited Edition) has been demonstrated running on the tablet with an Xbox controller, with support for keyboards and mice.

BetaBeacon

February 3, 2025

You Will Soon Be Able to Play Windows PC Games on Xiaomi’s Tablets

Xiaomi is testing the WinPlay Engine on the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro, which results in only a 2.9 percent GPU performance loss when playing games. The engine is built on Xiaomi's HyperCore technology platform, which aims to enhance performance, graphics, network, and security.