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Evolving Verifiable Trust: Bringing Binary Transparency to the Android Ecosystem
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Evolving Verifiable Trust: Bringing Binary Transparency to the Android Ecosystem

Starting May 1, 2026, all production Android applications released by Google will include a cryptographic entry to verify their authenticity. This initiative establishes a "Source of Truth" for users to confirm that the software on their devices is genuine and unaltered. It includes Google Applications and Mainline Modules, with a production ledger that records all official updates. If a Google-signed application is not listed in this ledger, it indicates that the application was not intended for release by Google. This system aims to prevent unauthorized modifications and enhance user privacy and security. For Pixel users, it allows verification of both system images and Google applications. Google has also provided verification tools to check the transparency status of supported software types.
Google finally explains why AICore uses so much storage
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Google finally explains why AICore uses so much storage

Google's AICore app enhances on-device AI capabilities for Android users, offering features like text summarization and proofreading. The app's significant storage usage is by design, as it temporarily retains both old and new versions of AI models during updates for reliability, which can lead to storage consumption of up to 11GB. This approach aims to prevent disruptions in functionality during updates. Once the new update is stable, the extra storage will be released automatically. Users are concerned about storage limitations, particularly on devices with 128GB base storage, and are advocating for a standardization of 256GB base storage for AI-enabled Android phones.
Google finally explains why the AICore app is eating up your storage
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Google finally explains why the AICore app is eating up your storage

AICore can temporarily use large storage (up to 11GB) during updates on Android devices. Google retains both old and new AI models for up to three days as a fail-safe during these updates. The storage used is automatically freed once the new AI model is confirmed stable.
Mega Man DXtreme Is a Free Reimagining of the Game Boy Color Classic for PC
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Mega Man DXtreme Is a Free Reimagining of the Game Boy Color Classic for PC

The CX2 Team has released a free reimagining of Mega Man Xtreme, titled Mega Man DXtreme, for PC. This version enhances the original game's narrative and gameplay, featuring improved controls, widescreen support, and a reworked array of weapons and bosses. Developed over five months using Construct 2, it includes an auto-save feature that activates after clearing a boss stage, allowing players to revisit stages and replay story events. Mega Man DXtreme is available for download, along with an announcement trailer. Other free Mega Man projects include a 16-bit demake demo of Mega Man X8 set for January 2024, a demo for Mega Man Perfect Blue, and Mega Man Maker, which allows players to create custom levels.
Circle to Search update lets Google look beyond your screen content
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Circle to Search update lets Google look beyond your screen content

In the Google app beta update (v17.18.24), the Circle to Search feature has been rebranded to "Ask about screen." This update enhances user experience by allowing searches to automatically include URLs, page content, and PDF data, providing richer context for AI-generated results. Users can now see a search box labeled “Ask about screen,” which emphasizes the ability to “Search with more context.” During testing, users have successfully uploaded URLs and PDFs while using this feature in apps like Google Chrome and Files by Google. The update is currently being rolled out to beta users, with potential incorporation into the stable version depending on feedback.
Google to pay $700M in antitrust settlement. See who is eligible
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Google to pay $700M in antitrust settlement. See who is eligible

A federal court intends to approve a 0 million settlement in an antitrust lawsuit against Google, confirmed by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. The lawsuit, initiated in 2021 by Raoul and a coalition of 53 attorneys general, accused Google of monopolistic practices related to Android app distribution and in-app payments, resulting in consumers facing transaction fees of up to 30%. The settlement aims to provide relief to consumers who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 2016 and September 2023, with most funds allocated directly to these individuals. Google will be required to allow app developers to use alternative payment systems for at least five years and inform consumers about potentially lower prices outside its billing framework. Additionally, Android users will be able to download apps from outside the Play Store for at least seven years. Payments to eligible individuals will be processed directly through PayPal or Venmo, with alternative claim options available. U.S. District Judge James Donato granted final approval to the settlement on April 30, raising concerns about the request for attorneys' fees.
Xteink S4 is running Android and will support sideloaded apps
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

Xteink S4 is running Android and will support sideloaded apps

The Xteink S4 e-reader has launched in China and will be released internationally soon. It operates on Google Android, allowing users to sideload e-reading apps like Kindle and KOBO. The retail price is projected to be budget-friendly. Key specifications include a 4.3-inch display, Android 11, 2GB RAM, 32GB storage, adjustable front light, USB-C charging, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a 1400mAh battery, all in a lightweight design of 95g. The Xteink S4 is designed to address issues from previous models, particularly the S3 and X4, which faced problems with jailbreaking that led to screen damage and warranty returns. The new Android framework allows for user customization, aiming to enhance the reading experience and reduce technical issues.
Your PC is an Xbox, your Android is a Windows Phone, and Windows K2 is here to save Windows 11
Winsage
May 3, 2026

Your PC is an Xbox, your Android is a Windows Phone, and Windows K2 is here to save Windows 11

Microsoft has restructured its Windows team to enhance Windows 11 and restore user confidence. A new preview build will hide the MSN feed by default, allowing access to widgets on a dedicated page. The latest optional non-security preview update includes reliability upgrades and AI agents. Windows 11 now features Xbox Mode, providing a full-screen, controller-friendly interface for gamers. Significant improvements have been made for Xbox Series X|S consoles and the Xbox app on PC. The original Xbox dashboard has been reverse-engineered for use as a PC launcher. A new custom Android launcher, METROV, recreates the Windows Phone 8.1 experience, while community efforts like 8Marketplace are reviving Windows Phone 8 through restored app access.
Everything new in Minecraft Bedrock 26.30.25/26 beta and preview
AppWizard
May 3, 2026

Everything new in Minecraft Bedrock 26.30.25/26 beta and preview

Mojang has released the Minecraft 26.30.25/26 Beta and preview build, introducing new features such as Geysers that launch players skyward and Sulfur Cubes that can absorb TNT blocks with varying fuse times based on activation methods. The update includes bug fixes, such as correct generation of iron doors and stone buttons in strongholds, crafting adjustments for Sulfur Spikes, and improvements to video settings and user interface. Technical updates feature the transition of four entity components to the 1.26.30 format, the addition of voxel shapes for 46 vanilla blocks, and a new SoundInstance API class for sound playback control.
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