APK Archives

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Google Keep is working on new UI that may screw up your muscle memory

Google is updating its Keep app, specifically focusing on the toolbar at the bottom. The Add button will become larger and permanently blue to reduce accidental taps. The Background options button will be replaced by a checkbox button for easier switching between note and list formats, while the Background options will still be accessible in the menu that appears when the Add button is tapped. Other features like Reminder, Labels, and Collaborator will also be included in the Add menu, indicating a more intuitive design for note-taking and list management. These changes are based on an APK teardown of version 5.26.301.00.90, and not all features may be included in the final release.

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

Gemini’s notebook tools are catching up with the app that inspired them

Google is enhancing its Gemini app by allowing users to add website links as sources in their notebooks, which will enable the collection of text from web pages, limited to visible content only. Additionally, a dedicated Students section is being developed within the app to help create tailored study notebooks based on individual learning needs. This section will allow users to organize ideas or set up focused study plans and will adapt to a student’s progress. These features are currently under development and not yet publicly available.

AppWizard

July 24, 2026

Samsung may finally let you set screen zoom levels on a per-app basis

Samsung has unveiled its latest foldable devices: the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, and the Z Fold 8 Ultra. Within the firmware of the Fold 8 Ultra, code suggests a new feature called "App screen zoom," which would allow users to set different screen zoom levels for individual applications. This feature is not yet visible in the device's display settings, as it is not operating on retail firmware. There is potential for this functionality to be available when the devices reach consumers next month and possibly extend to Samsung's broader lineup and the Android ecosystem. An APK teardown indicates this feature is a predictive tool based on preliminary code, with no guarantee of public release.

AppWizard

July 21, 2026

Exclusive: Google Maps is laying the groundwork for its smartest update yet

Google Maps is set to enhance its functionality with the integration of Gemini’s Personal Intelligence feature, which will connect various Google services like Gmail and Google Photos to provide relevant information within the app. Users will be able to access details about reservations and flights by linking Maps with Google Workspace and Google Photos, creating a personalized experience. The feature will initially work with Contacts, Google Photos, Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Calendar), Search Services, and YouTube. Additionally, new sections labeled “Connected Content Apps” and “Personalization” have been identified in the Google Maps account switcher, although they are not yet operational.

BetaBeacon

July 20, 2026

How Canadian Gaming Fans Use Android Apps During NHL & CFL

Android apps have become essential for sports fans as they provide real-time stats, instant score alerts, key match notifications, and personalized updates for favorite teams or players. These apps combine multiple features in one place, making it easier for fans to follow games, access player statistics, watch highlights, and stay connected with the sports world.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Spotted the new Android Developer Verifier app? Read this before you uninstall it

The "Android Developer Verifier" is a system service from Google that verifies whether an app being sideloaded is associated with a verified developer account. This app is part of Google's strategy to implement sideloading restrictions to protect users from social engineering scams. A verified developer account has undergone legal identity and background checks to ensure apps can be traced back to legitimate individuals or businesses. The app is automatically installed on certain devices, such as the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Galaxy S26 Ultra, through Google System Updates, and users cannot opt out of it. Currently, the app is inactive for most users, with registration requirements beginning in select regions on September 30. Uninstalling the app may not prevent its reinstallation. The updated sideloading process requires users to enable Developer mode, confirm they are not being coerced, restart their device, wait 24 hours, and authenticate before installing an APK. Although this process may seem cumbersome, it aims to disrupt scammers' tactics. Users can still sideload via ADB, which is exempt from the new restrictions. Keeping the Android Developer Verifier on the device is advised until the sideloading restrictions are fully implemented.

AppWizard

July 17, 2026

Google accidentally leaves a Pixel 11a clue in its Phone app

The beta version of Google’s Phone app (version 230.0.946661649-publicbeta-pixel) reveals internal codenames for the upcoming Pixel 11 lineup, including "cubs," "grizzly," "kodiak," "yogi," and "formosan." The first four are believed to correspond to the Pixel 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold models. The codename "formosan" is associated with the budget-friendly Pixel 11a, indicating that its development is underway. The Pixel 11a is expected to launch around March 2027, following the pattern of previous A-series phones. No specifications or features have been disclosed for these codenames, but their emergence suggests active preparation for the next generation of Pixel devices. The Pixel 11 series is set to be revealed on August 12.

BetaBeacon

July 16, 2026

Google to let rival Android app stores access Play catalog after Epic Games case: All about it

Google is allowing third-party Android app stores in the US to access the Google Play Store's catalog of apps through the Play Catalog Access Programme starting July 22. Eligible app stores can list apps available on Google Play but the actual download process will still be completed through the Google Play Store. The same terms and conditions as direct downloads from the Play Store will apply, including the Google Play service fee. Only Android app stores operating in the US can join the programme, and they must meet certain requirements such as displaying essential app information and offering customer support. App stores using Google's catalog must distribute Play Store apps only in the US, update their app listings regularly, offer other apps besides those in Google's catalogue, and not charge extra fees for downloads. Google will charge app store operators an annual ,000 service fee. To join the programme, app store operators must meet eligibility rules, submit an application, accept the agreement, pay the onboarding fee, create an app store account in the Play Console, submit required information and the app store APK for review, and integrate Google's Inline Install API upon approval. This move by Google is in compliance with a court order following its legal battle with Epic Games, with a settlement reached in November 2025.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Google Maps’ ‘Ask Maps’ feature could soon help you plan your trips

Google is enhancing the user experience of Google Maps by integrating the "Ask Maps" feature more seamlessly. This feature, launched in March, provides personalized recommendations and helps users discover new places. The latest version of Google Maps (v26.29.01.946673643) will include deeper integration of Ask Maps, with suggestions available on the home screen and specific place listings. Users will soon see Ask Maps suggestion chips on the directions screen, offering insights like “What’s the most scenic route?” and “What’s the best time to leave to avoid traffic?” A dedicated Ask Maps button will also be added at the end of the directions screen for real-time inquiries. These suggestions will only appear when travel modes are set to "Drive," "Bike," or "Walk," excluding public transit options. The feature is not yet active, but developments indicate Google's commitment to improving Google Maps functionality.

BetaBeacon

July 15, 2026

One of Android’s best PC game emulators just got a feature modders will love

A new GameNative update, version 1.1.1, has added Nexus Mods support, allowing users to mod their PC games and play them on their Android phones. The update also includes support for multiple controllers, hot-swap support, improved visibility in the controller layout editing screen, GOG-powered recommendations, support for Steam collections, and more.