Android users Archives

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Google to open Android to third-party app stores in US on July 22

Beginning July 22, Google will allow third-party app stores in the United States to access its Play Store catalog through the Play Catalog Access Program. App listings submitted to these third-party platforms will be accessible, but downloads will still require completion via Google Play, with standard service fees applying. This initiative follows a settlement with Epic Games, which involved adjustments to a court order. Third-party app stores must pay a ,000 upfront service fee for a security review and an annual fee of ,000 to maintain access to the Play catalog. Additionally, Google has reduced its commission on app purchases from 30% to 10% and allowed external billing options as part of the settlement.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

VK Sells RuStore to Developer’s CEO Following EU Sanctions

VK has announced its decision to sell 100% of RuStore to Dmitry Pankrushev, the CEO of Mnogo Prilozheniy. This announcement coincided with recent European Union sanctions against VK. RuStore was established as a domestic alternative for Android users in response to restrictions imposed by Apple and Google after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The platform currently features over 110,000 applications and games, attracting 68 million monthly users. VK did not disclose the financial details of the sale or the reasons behind the divestment, while assuring users that operations would continue seamlessly. On the same day, Russian media reported that VK-related applications were removed from Google Play and Huawei's AppGallery, following previous removals from Apple's App Store. RuStore has faced allegations of user tracking and unauthorized access to data, which it denies, stating that its practices are standard for major app storefronts.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Hasselblad’s signature photo editing app, Phocus Mobile finally comes to Android

The Hasselblad Phocus Mobile app has been released for Android users after being exclusive to iPhones and iPads. The app integrates with Hasselblad's medium format cameras, including the X2D II 100C and X2D 100C, and offers a suite of editing tools. It supports Hasselblad's Natural Colour Solution for accurate color representation and allows image exports in various formats. The editing toolkit includes features like exposure adjustment, curves, white balance, and noise reduction. Users can connect via Wi-Fi or USB-C, and the app is available for download on the Google Play Store and Hasselblad's website.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Android 17 is finally swapping taskbar app predictions for something you’ll actually use

The latest Android 17 QPR1 Beta introduces an update to the taskbar functionality, replacing predicted apps with a display of the most recently used applications. This change benefits foldable device users by locking in the last two active apps, improving productivity. Mishaal Rahman confirmed this enhancement, which aims to provide a more predictable user experience and simplify navigation. The feature is currently in testing within the QPR beta track before a broader rollout.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Big Changes Are Coming To Android’s Google Play Store This Month

In October 2024, a judge ordered Google to allow third-party app stores on the Android platform. Google has now decided to comply with this ruling, retracting its motion to amend the injunction. Changes are set to be implemented starting July 22, 2026, allowing third-party app stores to operate within the Play Store in the U.S. Developers' app listings will automatically be available to these stores unless they opt out. Third-party stores can offer apps from the Play Catalog if they pay an annual fee and meet certain criteria. However, questions remain regarding the integration of Play Protect security features and the assessment of third-party store security.

BetaBeacon

July 15, 2026

After Google Vs Epic Games, Xbox Finally Gets Its Shot On Android

Google's grip over the Play Store was ruled as an illegal monopoly, leading to the opening up of Android to approved third-party app stores. This change allows developers to use their own payment systems and skip Google's cut in many cases, making it easier for other app stores to compete. This is significant news for Xbox, as it now has the opportunity to launch its own mobile game store on Android, which has been a goal for the company for years. The loosening of rules on Android provides Xbox with a chance to bring its mobile store to life and potentially increase revenue by selling games directly, running promotions, and offering better prices without Google taking a cut. The history of Xbox's fight against Google and Apple in the mobile app store market is also highlighted, with Xbox having faced obstacles in launching its mobile store features on Android in the past. With the recent changes, Xbox now has fewer roadblocks in its way and a real opportunity to establish a mobile storefront on Android.

BetaBeacon

July 14, 2026

7 Best Card Games for Android

Hearthstone is a game set in the Warcraft universe that offers strategic deck building and online battles.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

How to Install Messaging Apps Safely on Windows PCs and Android Devices

Messaging applications are widely used for communication across various platforms, including Windows PCs and Android devices. Users often install these apps on both types of devices to facilitate conversations. The installation process requires careful consideration of the app's source, compatibility, permissions, and avoidance of counterfeit installers. Before installation, users should verify the app's source for transparency and security, ensuring it is from a trusted provider and appropriate for their device. For Windows users, a checklist includes confirming system compatibility, verifying the installer, and reading installation screens carefully. Android users should also confirm the app's source, check permissions, and avoid suspicious APK files. Fake installers and unsafe APKs pose risks, as they can contain modified versions of apps that compromise security. Users should be cautious of misleading download pages and links shared in online groups. Keeping messaging apps updated is essential for performance and security, and users should manage updates from trusted sources. Before logging into a messaging app, users should ensure it was downloaded from a reliable source, verify the file's compatibility with their device, review permissions, and safeguard verification codes. After logging in, users should check active sessions and remain vigilant against suspicious links and files.

AppWizard

July 11, 2026

This underrated Samsung feature is the first thing I set up on any new Android phone… except Pixels

The taskbar feature at the bottom of the screen enhances user experience on tablets and foldable phones, allowing quick access to frequently used applications. This feature is also available on regular non-folding smartphones, such as Samsung and Motorola devices, where users can enable and customize a side panel known as the Sidebar or Edge Panel. On Samsung devices, users can download the Good Lock app and install the Home Up module to activate the Edge Panel, which offers customization options for quick access to apps, contacts, and shortcuts. The upcoming One UI 9 update is expected to introduce more customization options for the Edge Panel. Motorola users can enable a similar sidebar feature through Settings > Gestures > Sidebar. OnePlus users can find it under Settings > Accessibility & convenience > Smart Sidebar. Pixel smartphones lack a built-in sidebar feature, with users relying on third-party applications to replicate this functionality. The closest alternative on Pixel devices is the App Bubbles feature for multitasking, but it does not provide the same experience as a dedicated sidebar.

AppWizard

July 9, 2026

This open-source app fixed my notification chaos when Android couldn’t

Megan Ellis shared her experience using the app DoNotNotify, which helped her manage and reduce the number of notifications on her smartphone. She found that many apps, including Pokémon Go and Temu, sent numerous vague notifications that were difficult to filter effectively. Despite Android's notification channels, she often had to disable notifications entirely for certain apps. DoNotNotify allowed her to customize her notification preferences without requiring personal data or account creation. The app features tabs for History, Rules, and Blocked notifications, enabling users to track and manage alerts. Ellis successfully used DoNotNotify to block unwanted notifications, particularly from games and shopping apps, and appreciated its privacy-focused design and adaptability to changes in notification content. She recommends the app for users overwhelmed by notifications.