app developers Archives

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Microsoft dials up the nagging in Windows, calls it security

Microsoft is introducing new security features for its Windows operating system, including "Windows Baseline Security Mode" and "User Transparency and Consent." The Baseline Security Mode will enforce runtime integrity safeguards by default, allowing only properly signed applications, services, and drivers to operate, with options for users to override these safeguards for legacy applications. The User Transparency and Consent feature will require explicit user consent for applications accessing sensitive resources, moving away from the current User Account Control prompts. Microsoft aims to enhance user security and privacy while providing clear and actionable notifications. CrowdStrike's Chief Technology Innovation Officer expressed support for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of user consent settings for security software effectiveness. Microsoft has a history of security initiatives, including the Secure Future Initiative, and plans to hold applications and AI tools to higher transparency standards. The rollout of these updates will occur in phases, although no specific timeline has been provided.

AppWizard

January 28, 2026

Why High-Performance Android Apps Require More Than Just Kotlin and Jetpack

Smartphone users expect immediate feedback and seamless experiences from applications, which requires a holistic approach to mobile development that integrates user interface design with robust server-side capabilities. Challenges in app architecture and backend integration can hinder performance, particularly for high-level applications. Developers often focus on frontend aspects, neglecting the importance of backend processes, which can lead to issues such as inefficient API payloads and data fetching latency. Architectural bottlenecks, like excessive data retrieval, can waste bandwidth and battery life. A well-structured Android architecture can separate UI from data management complexities, aiding scalability. Modern tools like Jetpack Compose enhance UI development but can introduce performance issues if backend state delivery is inconsistent. Collaborating with specialized nearshore mobile app development teams can help US-based companies address these challenges effectively, benefiting from time zone alignment and cost-effective solutions while maintaining engineering expertise.

AppWizard

January 26, 2026

Microsoft backs court injunction against Google

Microsoft has filed a friend-of-the-court brief urging a federal court to maintain an injunction against Google, which requires the company to dismantle its alleged monopoly in the Android apps market, particularly regarding payment practices. This injunction stems from Epic Games' lawsuit against Google, initiated in 2020. On January 16, Microsoft submitted its brief ahead of a court hearing where Google and Epic are seeking modifications to a permanent injunction issued in October 2024. The proposed changes could allow Google to impose fees between 9% and 20% on app developers, which Microsoft argues would undermine the original intent of the injunction. A recent settlement between Google and Epic includes a partnership valued at 0 million over six years, but details remain confidential. Judge Donato is reviewing the settlement and has requested briefings from the FTC and appointed an expert witness for evaluation. Epic Games has also announced that its games app is now available on Google Play worldwide.

AppWizard

January 21, 2026

Digital.ai expands automated testing to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay apps

Digital.ai has enhanced its automotive testing capabilities by offering support for end-to-end automated testing of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay applications. This development allows enterprise teams to automate in-car application workflows, increasing coverage and validating real-world behavior without the need for physical vehicles or specialized lab setups. The solution addresses technical and regulatory challenges, including distracted driver safety guidelines and ASPICE compliance, enabling testing across AAOS, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay for consistent performance across various displays and driving conditions. This integration empowers automakers and app developers to validate driving experiences before vehicles are released, aiming to mitigate risks and enhance driver safety.

AppWizard

January 20, 2026

Google Plans Extra Safety Checks for Android App Sideloading

Google is introducing an online developer verification system to enhance the safety of sideloaded Android applications. This feature will verify the authenticity of app developers when users sideload applications, requiring an active internet connection for verification. If a device is offline, users will receive a warning message indicating that the app developer cannot be verified. The verification system aims to provide transparency and empower users to make informed choices without restricting sideloading. Google has historically allowed sideloading but is increasingly aware of the associated security vulnerabilities. The company promotes Play Protect and has introduced warnings and safety checks to encourage cautious user behavior. Google acknowledges that many users rely on sideloaded apps for valid reasons and aims to ensure they are aware of the risks and can verify the trustworthiness of developers.

Winsage

January 11, 2026

Microsoft’s first Windows 11 preview build of 2026 brings more Copilot+ PC features to everyone

Microsoft has released its first Windows 11 preview build of the year, featuring an enhancement to the Narrator app that allows it to use Copilot for detailed image descriptions. This capability, previously available only to Copilot+ users, is now accessible to all Windows 11 devices, aiding blind and low-vision users. Additionally, Microsoft has improved the Cross Device Resume capability by introducing a new integration path via the Windows Notification System (WNS). The latest preview build is 26220.7535 (KB5072046) and is available through Windows Update for Insiders in the Dev or Beta Channel. Users are advised to switch to the Beta Channel to remain on the current 25H2 release, as the Dev Channel will soon change to higher build numbers, removing the option to switch between channels.

Winsage

January 10, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (Dev & Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (KB5072046) has been released for both the Dev and Beta Channels. Insiders in the Dev Channel have a limited opportunity to switch to the Beta Channel, which will close soon. New features include Copilot-powered image descriptions in Narrator, which enhances accessibility for blind and low-vision users. Administrators can now uninstall the Microsoft Copilot app for specific users under certain conditions. Improvements include enhancements to Cross Device Resume for developers and a refresh of the Windows Spotlight icon. Fixes have been implemented for various issues in the Start menu, File Explorer, input methods, print dialogs, and Windows Update settings. Known issues include problems with the Xbox full-screen experience, Start menu access, system tray visibility, Settings crashes, Bluetooth battery level display, and the Microsoft 365 Copilot prompt box functionality. Updates are based on Windows 11, version 25H2, and features are rolled out gradually to Insiders.

AppWizard

December 31, 2025

Google Revamps Gemini AI Android App with Dynamic Floating Input Bar

Google is refining the user experience of its Gemini app on Android devices by transitioning from a static prompt bar to a fluid, floating pill-shaped design. This update is currently available in beta versions and aims to address user feedback regarding visual clutter. The new design condenses input options into a sleek bar that expands when the keyboard is activated, hiding some tools behind a ‘+’ menu to streamline interactions. The redesign reflects Google’s commitment to making AI interactions more intuitive and aligns with broader trends in minimalism among AI interfaces. Additionally, the update could influence third-party integrations and may be part of a strategy to fully replace Google Assistant with Gemini by 2026. User reactions to the redesign are mixed, with some expressing excitement over the modern look while others are concerned about hidden features complicating usability.

Tech Optimizer

December 25, 2025

Snowflake Postgres is Now Available in Public Preview

Snowflake Postgres, a fully managed Postgres solution, is now available for public preview, integrating Postgres into the Snowflake ecosystem. It enhances the Snowflake AI data platform, allowing users to utilize data for AI, machine learning, and analytics applications while offering simplified management, robust security, and comprehensive governance. The solution includes enhanced data management tools, advanced security protocols, governance features for compliance and data integrity, and support for various operational workloads.

AppWizard

December 24, 2025

Android Automotive Adds PIN Lock for Apps

Google is enhancing its Android Automotive platform with a feature called Sensitive App Protection, which allows drivers to secure individual applications with a PIN lock. This feature ensures that sensitive information remains confidential in shared vehicle environments by enabling drivers to restrict access to specific apps while allowing passengers to manage entertainment options. Users can set a unique 4- to 16-digit code for app locks, and recovery is possible via a linked Google Account, although it may involve deleting the locked apps or their data. Most apps from the Play Store can be locked, except for certain system apps like Assistant, Maps, and Settings, which remain accessible. The feature is being rolled out as an unbundled system app, meaning automakers must choose to integrate it, and it will be available through over-the-air updates for vehicles equipped with Google services from various manufacturers. Automakers are expected to restrict PIN entry while the vehicle is in motion for safety reasons.