app features Archives

AppWizard

November 8, 2024

I tried Google’s hidden note-taking app that no one’s talking about, and you should too

Google's NotebookLM is a new note-taking tool that allows users to consolidate information from various sources, including Google Drive documents, articles, YouTube videos, PDF files, and MP3 audio clips, into a single organized notebook. It utilizes Google's language model, Gemini 1.5 Pro, to analyze extensive text and generate outputs like briefing documents and study guides without requiring a premium subscription. The app features a bulletin-board style layout for easy usability and includes a chat feature with inline citations. One of its standout features is the Audio Overviews, which transforms notes into a podcast format with human-like hosts discussing the content. NotebookLM is currently available as a cross-platform web app and has recently shed its "experimental" label, though it does not yet have a dedicated mobile application.

AppWizard

November 4, 2024

Google TV removed its best new app, but it’ll be back soon

Google TV's Freeplay app, initially launched on the Google TV Streamer, was rolled out to additional devices in September but was removed shortly after due to an issue causing increased crashes for some users. Currently, the app is only accessible on Google's flagship streaming box. Google has temporarily disabled the app on affected devices and plans to implement a fix soon, with the updated guide expected to be available for all Google TV devices in the coming months. The Freeplay app offers access to over 150 free channels and features a user-friendly interface for sorting content.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

Pixel phones are getting an actual weather app in 2024, with a bit of AI

Google's Weather app features an AI-generated weather report that provides concise summaries, such as "Cold and rainy day, bring your umbrella and hold onto your hat!" The app includes a weather radar for real-time precipitation insights and "Nowcasting" capabilities that predict short-term weather changes. Users can customize the display by rearranging data like UV index and humidity, but the app's data widgets are large, requiring scrolling to see the full daily forecast. The AI summary and 10-day forecast are fixed at the top, limiting personalization. Pollen data is unavailable for allergy sufferers in regions like the US, and some whimsical features, like a frog icon, are missing. Users have criticized the app for requiring saved locations to view weather conditions, integration issues with other Google apps, and aesthetic concerns regarding the weather map and app visibility.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

Mozilla’s Thunderbird email app for Android is finally available

Mozilla has launched an official Thunderbird app for Android after over two decades of absence from the mobile email application market. The app is based on the open-source code of K-9, an email application that Mozilla acquired, and has been developed in collaboration with the original K-9 team since 2022. The beta version of the app received positive feedback, leading to a swift transition to a stable version. The Thunderbird app features a refreshed interface and new functionalities while retaining some familiar features from K-9. It is now available for download on the Play Store.

Winsage

October 27, 2024

Windows 11 Enterprise/Edu may get Settings “Home” with Microsoft account ads

Microsoft has introduced a Home section in the Settings app of Windows 11 23H2, initially for consumer editions, which will soon extend to commercial editions. This Home page allows users to view their device name, connection status, and last update check, as well as access essential settings like power, display, and sound. It also includes personalization options, cloud storage monitoring, backup management, and security reminders. The feature is set to enhance user experience across various environments, with observations indicating a focus on settings recommendations and personalization. Promotions for Microsoft Account services are prevalent in the consumer edition, but may be less relevant for commercial users. There is potential for future updates to streamline the Home page and reduce clutter. Users of Windows 11 LTSC currently do not see these advertisements.

AppWizard

October 22, 2024

Kakao’s new AI messaging app will speak in the voices of K-pop idols

Kakao has introduced an AI-integrated messenger app named Kanana at its annual developer conference in Yongin, Gyeonggi. Kanana enhances user experience by summarizing messages, managing schedules, and recommending entertainment based on chat history. The app features two AI characters: Nana for personal use, who can manage appointments and summarize texts, and Kana for group interactions, creating quizzes and summarizing past conversations. Users can set the AI's voice to that of K-pop artists. Kanana is currently in internal testing, with a beta release planned for Kakao employees later this year. Kakao aims to expand its AI product offerings under the Kanana brand, amidst challenges including regulatory issues and competition from Naver. A new AI division named Kanana has been formed, integrating AI R&D personnel from the former Kakao Brain.

Winsage

October 18, 2024

ChatGPT app comes to Windows finally! Add a quick AI shortcut to your PC today

OpenAI has launched the ChatGPT app for paid users on Windows, entering the testing phase for a PC version of the previously successful Mac app. The app features a streamlined interface and a keyboard shortcut (Alt + Space) for easy access. Currently, the early version is available for ChatGPT Plus, Enterprise, Team, and Edu users, with a subscription cost of £16 per month. The app can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store, and a Canvas mode has been introduced as an AI-powered word processor. Non-subscribers will have access to the app once development is complete.

Winsage

October 17, 2024

The New Windows 11 24H2 Version Is Out, Here’s What’s Changed on Our Computers – Jason Deegan

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Version 24H2, featuring significant updates including: - Enhanced Energy Saver Mode that optimizes battery life for laptops by limiting background processes and reducing CPU usage. - Improved smartphone integration through the updated "Phone Link" app, allowing smartphones to be used as webcams and providing quick access to mobile app features from the desktop. - A more customizable Start menu, enabling users to pin applications to the taskbar and access Microsoft account information directly. - Noteworthy enhancements to File Explorer, including native support for 7zip and TAR formats, performance optimizations for ZIP file extraction, and improved navigation features. - A more user-friendly Quick Settings menu with easier scrolling, customizable arrangements, and a refresh button for Wi-Fi networks. - Support for HDR wallpapers, allowing the use of .JXR format images and automatic adjustments between HDR and SDR displays. - Support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth LE Audio, enhancing connectivity options and introducing features for hearing aid users. - Voice Clarity feature that reduces background noise during voice calls using AI technology. - New Copilot+ features, including voice interaction, personalized news summaries, enhanced AI capabilities for complex queries, smarter browsing in Edge, and improved memory function for sensitive data. Users can manually initiate the update by navigating to Settings > Update & Security if it does not prompt automatically.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

One of the best Pixel 9 exclusive apps made it to older devices

Android 15 has been released, introducing new features including the Pixel Weather app, which is now available on Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8 devices. The update includes Theft Detection and Private Space. The Pixel Weather app features a dedicated app icon, a vertically scrolling feed with an hourly forecast and a 10-day outlook, and organized statistics such as precipitation levels and wind speed. It includes background animations reflecting current weather conditions and an AI-generated weather report. The app also provides timely notifications about weather changes and offers new widgets for displaying essential weather information.

AppWizard

October 10, 2024

Google Gemini has gotten a facelift on Android — here’s what has changed

Google has rolled out a new design for the Google Gemini app on Android devices, addressing previous criticisms of its cluttered interface. The updated app features a simple welcome message, a small chat bubble for easy access to chat history, and a redesigned text input field that resembles natural conversation flow. The microphone and camera options are now integrated into the streamlined design, and the Gemini Live waveform feature has been moved to the bottom right corner for better accessibility. Additionally, Google has introduced the Gemini Live Voice Mode, allowing real-time conversations with the app at no cost. This redesign aims to enhance usability and attract users who were previously deterred by outdated information. A curated list of engaging prompts is also available to help users maximize their experience with the new app.