Android Archives

BetaBeacon

September 8, 2026

AI upscaling is about to transform Android gaming forever

The Arm Mali G2-Ultra graphics chip offers performance improvements of up to 20% in demanding mobile graphics benchmarks compared to the previous generation. It also introduces native AI support through the new NX neural accelerator, which is a hardware accelerator integrated into the GPU's shader core and supports INT8 and INT16 operations. The G2 series offers a wide range of configuration options, including the Ultra range with the highest core count for laptop-class performance, the Premium range for mid-tier mobile options, and the Pro range for budget devices.

BetaBeacon

September 8, 2026

Drop Duchy is bringing its unique block-stacking strategy to Android; pre-registration now live

Drop Duchy is a game that combines geometric block-stacking with strategic elements. Players must build their realm using blocks of different shapes and types, collect resources, protect their castle, and grow a powerful army. Each run presents a new landscape where tiles can be placed strategically to gain bonuses and resources. The game also features a deck-building system with over 110 unique cards, allowing players to experiment with new structures, upgrades, and modifiers. Additionally, players can trade with markets and guilds, improve their deck, and more.

BetaBeacon

September 8, 2026

Wave Launcher Drops V1.0: A PS3-Style XMB Frontend for Android Retro Handhelds

Wave Launcher, an Android launcher inspired by the PlayStation-style XrossMediaBar design, has officially reached its V1.0 release. It prioritizes controller-first functionality, offers game management features, robust asset scraping capabilities, multimedia functionality, and extras such as FTP support and Discord Rich Presence integration. It is available for download on its official page and GitHub.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

WhatsApp Ends Support for Android 5.0, 5.1

On September 8, 2026, WhatsApp stopped supporting devices running on Android versions 5.0 and 5.1, meaning users with these operating systems can no longer access the app. WhatsApp had previously notified users about this change earlier in the year. Affected users are advised to check for software updates or switch to a newer phone to continue using WhatsApp and benefit from enhanced features and security.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

In other nudes: Google’s new Android shield blocks your NSFW photos

Android's Photo Picker is set to receive an enhancement called the Sensitive Content Warning (SCW), which is currently operational in Google Messages. The SCW automatically blurs images or videos that may contain nudity and is designed to protect users from sharing explicit content. Google is working to integrate this tool into the broader Photo Picker ecosystem, potentially extending its protective capabilities to various applications. The SCW functions as an on-device scanner that identifies explicit content, providing warnings before sending and automatically blurring incoming media. The feature is automatically activated for Supervised users, such as young children, while parents can disable it for teenagers aged 13 to 17. Although the SCW aims to enhance monitoring of shared content, media can still be transmitted as files, which may bypass these protections.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Sony rolls out Android 17 with Desktop mode, new camera tools, and more to Xperia phones

The Sony Xperia 1 VIII is receiving an upgrade to Android 17, with the rollout currently live in the UK and Germany, featuring software version 73.1.A.2.61 and a download size of approximately 1.2GB. Key features include a new Desktop mode for connecting to external displays, enhanced personalization options, improved Quick settings panel, advanced screen recording capabilities, and enhancements to the AI Camera Assistant. The update is also available for the Xperia 1 VII, Xperia 1 VI, Xperia 10 VIII, and Xperia 10 VII. The Xperia 1 VIII is set to receive four major OS updates and six years of security updates.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Google Wallet for Android Gains NFC Support for Importing Physical Transit Cards

Google has updated the Android version of the "Google Wallet" app, introducing a feature that allows users to import passes and balances from physical transit cards using NFC capabilities. This feature is designed to simplify the transfer of transit card information into the app and will be compatible with select transit systems. Popular Japanese transit IC cards like “Suica” and “PASMO” are already integrated with Google Wallet and may not be included in this new feature. The update requires the Android “Google Play services” app version 26.35 or later and includes a refreshed “Card added” screen with an improved user interface.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Waze Users Lose Key Navigation Information on Android Auto, Update at Fault

A recent update to Android Auto, version 17.5, has caused a glitch in the Waze navigation app, preventing users from seeing essential trip information such as estimated time of arrival (ETA), distance to destination, and remaining travel time when Waze is displayed in full-screen mode. The information is visible when Waze is shown in the Coolwalk screen alongside other applications. Some users have noted that the journey information briefly reappears during Waze alerts but disappears after the alert is dismissed. There is currently no identified workaround, but users are considering reverting to a previous version of Android Auto or Waze to resolve the issue. Google has not officially acknowledged the glitch, but a Community Specialist has requested additional information from users to assist in diagnosing the problem. Meanwhile, Google Maps remains a reliable alternative for navigation.

BetaBeacon

September 8, 2026

Uta Macross Rhythm Game Launches Project for Offline Version

AUGUST Inc. is developing a new version of the Macross franchise's rhythm game, Uta Macross, set to be released next spring on iOS, Android, and Steam platforms.

BetaBeacon

September 8, 2026

Dice a Million is the latest Balatro-like to hit mobile with a dice-rolling twist

Dice A Million is a new roguelike dice-roller game available on Android, with an upcoming launch on iOS. The game challenges players to reach a million points by rolling dice and utilizing various modifiers and dice types to build combos. The game features unique modifiers, bosses, and a visually captivating art style. The latest update includes new content such as new hands, dice, and rings for players to explore. Dice A Million offers a fresh and innovative take on classic dice games in the Balatro genre.