Android updates Archives

AppWizard

October 10, 2025

Google Docs Android App Integrates Gemini AI ‘Help Me Write’ Feature

Google is enhancing its Google Docs app on Android with the introduction of the "Help me write" feature, powered by the Gemini AI model. This feature, which has been available on web versions of Docs and Gmail, is currently in development and includes a new toolbar icon for submitting writing requests. Although not fully operational yet, it aims to improve mobile productivity by allowing users to generate and refine text. The feature may also integrate with existing Gemini capabilities like summarization and rephrasing. The rollout faces challenges, including privacy concerns related to data processing and the need for effective language support, with plans for Gemini to be available in over 20 languages by June 2025. Access may require a Workspace or AI premium plan, and a full launch is anticipated by late 2025. This advancement could significantly impact mobile workflows in industries such as journalism and marketing, enhancing collaboration and document creation.

AppWizard

October 8, 2025

QuickStep App: Android’s Default Launcher Guide

The QuickStep App is the default launcher on many Android devices, managing the home screen interface and app interactions. It allows users to open and switch between apps, customize the home screen, add widgets or shortcuts, access the app drawer, and use gestures for quick actions. QuickStep is pre-installed, integrates with the system for smoother performance, is battery efficient, and receives consistent updates from Google or device manufacturers. It is essential for maintaining an easy-to-use interface, faster multitasking, smoother animations, and reducing app crashes. Users should not uninstall QuickStep, as it is a core system component, although they can set a different launcher as default. To optimize the QuickStep experience, users are advised to keep their Android updated, use gesture navigation, organize apps, customize widgets, and avoid clutter.

AppWizard

September 30, 2025

This Niagara Launcher feature should be standard across all Android phones

Rita El Khoury has been using the Niagara Launcher for about a year and appreciates its simplicity, notification grouping, and customizable app icons. A standout feature is its ability to display apps on the home screen only when connected to Bluetooth devices, which helps manage limited home screen space. This feature, available in the premium version Niagara Pro, is not found on Pixel or other Android devices tested by El Khoury, although Samsung offers a similar function through its Modes and Routines feature. However, Samsung's approach is more limited as it triggers a single app rather than providing a list of relevant apps like Niagara does. There is hope that future Android updates will incorporate more versatile contextual app access features.

AppWizard

August 5, 2025

Key Benefits of Hiring a Detroit-Based Android App Development Company in 2025

The mobile app market is experiencing significant growth in 2025, with Android holding over 71% of the global smartphone market share. The North American Android app development sector is projected to reach .31 billion by 2026, driven by increased smartphone adoption and a shift to mobile-first strategies. Small and medium-sized enterprises view mobile apps as essential for customer engagement and operational efficiency, with 87% recognizing their importance. Detroit has become a key player in mobile app development, benefiting from its strategic location in the Eastern Time Zone, which facilitates real-time collaboration with partners across North America. The city offers competitive tax incentives, lower operational costs, and a growing pool of tech talent, with major companies like Google and Microsoft establishing operations there. Local development teams in Detroit can engage in synchronous collaboration, enhancing decision-making and minimizing miscommunication. They possess a deep understanding of North American business practices and regulatory requirements, leading to better-designed apps that resonate with users. Engaging Detroit-based developers can be more cost-effective than offshore alternatives, as local teams typically complete projects 30-40% faster. The average cost to develop a medium-complexity Android app in Detroit ranges from ,000 to 0,000, significantly lower than in cities like San Francisco. Detroit's tech talent pool has expanded due to local universities and coding bootcamps, producing graduates specializing in mobile app development. The city attracts experienced developers seeking better work-life balance and lower living costs. Canadian companies benefit from Detroit's proximity and cultural similarities, facilitating partnerships and simplifying cross-border projects. U.S. development services are often competitively priced for Canadian businesses when considering quality. Detroit's Android app development firms are integrating advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and IoT into applications. The city's automotive industry expertise enhances development for connected vehicles and industrial IoT systems. Local development relationships focus on long-term partnerships, ensuring ongoing support and updates for applications. Proximity allows for regular communication and strategic planning, fostering better outcomes and stronger business relationships.

BetaBeacon

July 29, 2025

Samsung Beat Google at Its Own Game with Android 16

Samsung was able to release its custom Android skin, One UI 8, just weeks after Android 16 became available by adopting a similar "Trunk Stable" approach to Google's development model. Samsung's faster turnaround was made possible by developing One UI from a single, stable internal branch, allowing them to match Google's release schedule going forward.

BetaBeacon

July 19, 2025

My apologies, Samsung, I was unfamiliar with your Fold game

The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is a significant improvement over previous models in terms of design, features, and performance. Samsung's slow and steady innovation in its foldable series has made minor upgrades more meaningful and has led to a more impressive overall product.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Google Gemini can now read your WhatsApp chats without you knowing – but you can stop it

Starting July 7, 2025, Google’s AI chatbot, Gemini, will automatically interact with third-party applications on Android devices, including Messages, WhatsApp, Utilities, and Phone applications. Users can expect Gemini to perform tasks such as sending messages, setting timers, and making phone calls with minimal input. These interactions will occur automatically, regardless of whether the Gemini Apps Activity setting is activated. Conversations will be logged in user accounts for up to 72 hours, even if users disable the Gemini Apps Activity. Google has informed Android users about these changes via email. Concerns regarding privacy have been raised, with Tuta, an encrypted email service, highlighting the lack of transparency from tech companies. Users can disable Gemini's interaction with apps through the Apps settings page or uninstall it entirely using developer tools. Future Android updates may introduce Gemini features to additional devices.

AppWizard

June 1, 2025

I replaced my Kindle with this E Ink tablet that runs Android – and don’t regret it

The Onyx Boox Page is a seven-inch E Ink display e-reader priced at 9, running a streamlined version of Android 11. It allows users to download various applications, enhancing its functionality beyond traditional e-reading. The device supports note-taking in Google Keep or Docs and offers access to apps like Instagram and YouTube, although video playback is limited. It includes a protective flip case, customizable user interface options, and straightforward access to a control panel. The Boox Page features dedicated Library and Store apps, Bluetooth capability for audiobooks, and a battery life rated for up to six weeks on a single charge. It has 32GB of base storage with a microSD card slot for expansion. The device lacks automatic light temperature adjustment and operates on an older version of Android, but ongoing updates are expected.

AppWizard

May 19, 2025

How to stop Android apps running in the background

Experiencing unexpected battery drain on Android devices can be caused by background apps. To manage these apps and alleviate battery issues, users can activate the Adaptive Battery feature by navigating to Settings > Battery > Battery Saver > Adaptive Battery and toggling it on. Regular updates for both the Android system and applications can improve battery performance. Users can check for Android updates in Settings > System > Software updates and for app updates in the Google Play Store under Manage apps & device. To monitor battery usage, users can go to Settings > Battery > Battery usage to identify which apps consume the most power. For RAM usage, enabling Developer options allows users to see which apps are using memory by going to Settings > About phone > Build number (tap seven times) > System > Developer options > Running services. Users can stop or uninstall background apps by navigating to Settings > Apps > See all apps, selecting the app, and choosing to force stop or uninstall it. To limit background activity for specific apps, users can enable "Pause app activity if unused" or toggle off "Allow background usage" in the app's battery usage settings. Some manufacturers offer built-in options for managing background apps, and third-party apps like Greenify can also help. Common battery-draining apps include social media and streaming services.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

LG will shut down update servers for its Android smartphones on June 30

LG will officially terminate software updates for all its smartphones on June 30, 2025. This includes the cessation of the mobile phone software upgrade service (FOTA), update center, and LG Bridge service. Users are advised to upgrade their software before this deadline, as no further updates will be provided after that date.