Android users Archives

AppWizard

April 28, 2025

For Android users: How to secure your Instagram account

Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances online account security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to a password. To enable 2FA on Instagram, users should: open the app, go to their profile, tap the menu icon, select "Settings," navigate to "Security," and choose "Two-Factor Authentication." Users can receive verification codes via text message or an authentication app. This measure helps protect accounts even if a password is compromised.

AppWizard

April 25, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Nerd Survivors, Templar Battleforce RPG, and more

Android users can find exciting deals on Google Play this weekend, including a 25% discount on Fitbit smart wearables, the launch of the annual Bose Mother’s Day sale for audio equipment, and a complimentary Best Buy gift card with the purchase of a Google Pixel 9a smartphone. Notable app offerings include "Nerd Survivors," "Templar Battleforce RPG," "Doom & Destiny Worlds," and "Heroes of Flatlandia."

AppWizard

April 22, 2025

You Can Now Make Google Messages Blur NSFW Images

Google is introducing a feature in Google Messages that automatically detects and blurs nude photos sent to Android devices, displaying a sensitive content warning before explicit images can be viewed. This feature includes options to block numbers sending inappropriate images and alerts users when they attempt to send or forward such content. Users can enable sensitive content warnings in the Google Messages settings, while for users under 18, the feature is automatically activated. The detection processes occur on-device using Android's SafetyCore technology, ensuring user privacy and security. The feature is currently being tested on select Android devices running the Messages beta and does not extend to videos.

AppWizard

April 21, 2025

Google rolls out Gemini Live screen sharing to all Android users

Google has launched its Gemini Live feature for all Android users, expanding access beyond select devices like the Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25. The feature allows users to share their video or screen in real-time, enabling interactive experiences with the AI assistant. Users can seek assistance by pointing their camera or scrolling down within the app and can initiate a session using the "Share screen with Live" button.

AppWizard

April 21, 2025

Gemini Live’s real-time screen sharing is now available to all Android users

Google has rolled out its Gemini Live feature, allowing real-time video and screen sharing with its AI assistant, to all Android users. This feature was initially launched for Pixel 9, Galaxy S25, and Gemini Advanced subscribers. Users can activate it by tapping "Share screen with Live" in the "Ask Gemini" window, enabling them to share their camera or navigate apps while receiving tailored responses. The feature enhances user experiences by facilitating brainstorming, troubleshooting, personal shopping advice, and skill development. Users can manage screen sharing through notifications and stop sharing at any time. Google has also introduced an auto-delete functionality for privacy concerns regarding audio, video, and screen shares.

AppWizard

April 17, 2025

Google to Help Android App Developers Identify ‘Excessive’ Battery Drain

Google has introduced a beta metric within the Android Vitals suite to help developers identify and address battery drain caused by excessive wake locks. This metric allows developers to monitor instances of excessive wake locks, defined as holding partial wake locks for more than three hours within a 24-hour period. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will provide user experience insights to assist in improving app performance. Samsung has expressed support for this collaboration, aiming to help developers create optimized apps that enhance performance and battery life. Google plans to expand the Android Vitals metrics and may highlight optimized apps on the Google Play store in the future.

AppWizard

April 17, 2025

Google’s Gemini Live with camera and screen share comes to all Android app users

Google's Gemini Live feature is now available to all users of the Gemini app on Android, having previously been exclusive to Advanced plan subscribers. This tool allows users to use AI through their camera or by sharing their screen, providing instant insights for various tasks. At the Google Cloud Next ‘25 event, the company introduced the Gemini update, which includes camera and screen-sharing capabilities, enabling users to ask questions, receive voice-guided assistance, record and analyze conversations, brainstorm ideas, look up content, and identify objects. The official Gemini app account announced the rollout of this feature to all Android users, encouraging downloads of the app.

BetaBeacon

April 17, 2025

The Xbox app will now let you buy games from your Android phone

Xbox has added support for purchasing games via the Android mobile app, allowing users to buy games in two taps and set them to automatically install on their console remotely.

BetaBeacon

April 17, 2025

Buy Your Xbox Games Directly in Android App

Microsoft has made it easier for Xbox users to purchase games through the official Xbox app, allowing them to buy games, join Game Pass, redeem rewards, and buy in-game items directly through the app. Ultimate members can now redeem perks directly from the app with a saved payment method on their Xbox account, making the purchase process quick and easy with only two in-app clicks.

AppWizard

April 16, 2025

Android is getting smarter about spotting battery-hungry apps

Google has introduced a new metric in the Play Console beta to identify excessive background wake locks that can cause battery drain. This tool allows developers to track apps that maintain wake locks for over three hours within a 24-hour period when not in use. Google is collaborating with smartphone manufacturers like Samsung to establish performance standards for Android devices. The initiative is part of a multi-year plan to provide developers with insights into app performance and may lead to additional metrics focusing on performance and battery efficiency. The excessive wake lock metric is currently in beta, and Google is seeking developer feedback for refinement.