app icon Archives

AppWizard

May 23, 2026

I just downloaded the viral disco app icon pack on my Pixel — here’s how to get it

Race Johnson showcased app icons with a disco ball effect, termed “discomorphism,” which caught the attention of Android President Sameer Samat. He announced the availability of disco icons for Pixel phones, confirming they are real and ready for download. A recent poll showed mixed opinions on the disco icon pack, with 53% voting it "hot" and 47% "not." To download the disco icons, a Pixel device must be running Android 16 QPR3, which began rolling out in March and is compatible with Pixel models starting from the Pixel 6 series. Users can access the disco icon pack by navigating through their home screen settings. The results of the disco aesthetic may vary among app icons, and the uniform black background may not appeal to everyone.

AppWizard

May 18, 2026

After fixing a family friend’s phone, I realized Google Play Protect is not doing enough

An elderly relative and a friend were misled into downloading problematic apps due to deceptive advertisements that appeared as system notifications. These ads led users to the Play Store under false pretenses, resulting in the installation of apps that generated excessive ads and altered user interfaces. In one case, a user unknowingly installed a launcher app disguised as a messaging application, which compromised her device's functionality and privacy by requesting excessive permissions. Google Play Protect failed to identify the problematic app, which continued to generate ads even after its removal. The app's misleading title and vague description contributed to the confusion, highlighting the need for improved safeguards in the Play Store to protect less tech-savvy users.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

All new features arriving in the Windows 11 May 2026 update

Microsoft will release the Windows 11 May 2026 update on May 12, 2026, as part of its regular Patch Tuesday rollout. Key features include: 1. Enhanced File Explorer with improved launch speed and persistent View/Sort preferences. 2. Haptic feedback integration for compatible input devices. 3. Xbox mode for an improved gaming experience, available to all users later this month. 4. Transformation of the Drag Tray to Drop Tray with settings relocated for easier file sharing. 5. Introduction of the Arabic 101 Legacy keyboard layout. 6. New AI agent support on the taskbar for app previews. 7. Ability to format FAT32 drives up to 2TB. 8. Updated Windows Driver policy requiring drivers to be signed through the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program. 9. Improvements to Voice Typing, allowing activation via the Voice Typing key. 10. Security changes restricting certain CMD scripts that could manipulate system files. 11. Updated Group Policy for removing default Microsoft Store packages with a dynamic list for customization.

AppWizard

April 28, 2026

Google Play will finally start spotlighting apps worthy of your big screen

Google Play Store will introduce a new badge system in version 51.2 to highlight apps optimized for larger screens, such as tablets and foldable devices. This update aims to improve user experience by making it easier to find applications that utilize larger displays effectively. The badge will indicate well-suited apps, helping users avoid poorly adapted ones. Additional enhancements include an expanded view of app content ratings, streamlined installation processes, easier access to Collections for tablet users, and the ability to review subscription plans within app ratings and reviews. These features are part of Google's commitment to enhancing big-screen experiences in the Android ecosystem.

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

I spent a week with Android 17 Beta 3 on my Pixel, and these 4 features change everything

Google has rolled out Android 17 Beta 3, introducing several new features. Key enhancements include: - App Bubbles: Floating shortcuts for easy access to applications, allowing for multitasking with multiple messaging apps. - Separate Wi-Fi and Mobile Data Toggles: Users can now toggle Wi-Fi and mobile data independently in the Quick Settings menu, improving efficiency. - Assistant Volume Control: A distinct volume level for virtual assistants can be set independently from media volume, enhancing user experience. - Hide App Names on Home Screen: Users can hide app names next to icons for a cleaner interface, allowing for greater customization. The full public release is expected around June 2026.

AppWizard

April 2, 2026

I’m testing Android 17’s app bubbles, and I’ve already found a big problem

The author transitioned from a Samsung device to the Pixel 10 Pro and appreciates the new app bubbles feature introduced in Android 17 Beta 3, which allows users to launch apps in a movable and collapsible window. This feature is particularly useful for multitasking, such as accessing notes or media while using other apps. However, the author notes that app bubbles have limitations, including a cumbersome process to open them, lack of resizing options, and issues with returning to full-screen mode. In contrast, Samsung's pop-up windows offer more flexibility and convenience. Despite these drawbacks, the author remains hopeful for improvements to app bubbles in future updates.

AppWizard

March 29, 2026

Android 17: Google Finally Brought This Useful Trick to Every App

Google's Android 17 Beta has introduced an expanded "bubble" feature that allows users to activate the bubble format for nearly all applications, enhancing multitasking capabilities. This feature can be enabled by long-pressing an app icon and selecting the bubble option, allowing apps to appear in floating bubbles that can be resized and repositioned. Users can manage multiple bubble apps simultaneously. The update is being distributed to testers on devices including the Pixel 10, Pixel 6 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet, with a final release expected in June. Samsung is also expected to integrate this feature into its One UI for enhanced multitasking on Galaxy devices.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

Android 17 Beta 3 finally brings the desktop multitasking we’ve been waiting for

Android 17 Beta 3 introduces significant multitasking capabilities with the Bubbles system, allowing users to run applications in floating windows. Screen recording features a floating control panel for editing, sharing, and deleting recordings. Quick Settings have been simplified with distinct toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. This beta version is available for Pixel 6 and newer devices, with finalized SDK and NDK APIs for developers. The Bubbles system allows users to open apps in floating windows, and enhancements for foldable devices include dragging icons for better multitasking. Users can now disable dark mode for individual apps, and privacy features include adaptive password visibility based on input methods and a new Location Button for temporary location access.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

6 ways I’m already using Android 17’s app bubbles to multitask better

Google has released Android 17 Beta 3, featuring app bubbles, which enhance multitasking by allowing users to keep applications floating on their screens for quick access. Users can create app bubbles by long-pressing any app icon and selecting the "bubble" option, which opens the app in a small floating window that can be minimized into a bubble. Multiple bubbles can be stacked, and tapping a stack expands it for easy management. Users can remove bubbles by dragging them to an "X" button, and on foldable devices, bubbles can be arranged in a taskbar-style layout. The app bubbles feature allows for various multitasking scenarios, such as responding to messages without switching apps, keeping notes open while shopping, watching videos while taking notes, checking maps during chats, planning trips without app switching, and copying information easily between applications.

AppWizard

March 23, 2026

Consider my 4-step Android refresh routine before switching to a new phone

Consumers can enhance the performance of their aging Android devices by following these steps: 1. Delete unused apps to free up storage and optimize performance by navigating to Settings > Storage > Apps or long-pressing the app icon to uninstall. 2. Clear storage by removing unwanted files and photos, particularly from the Downloads folder, and by transferring photos to external drives or cloud storage. Clear app cache via Settings > Storage > App > Clear Cache. 3. Check for updates to ensure the device runs the latest operating system by going to Settings > General > System Update and updating apps in the Google Play Store. 4. Adjust animation speed for improved responsiveness by enabling Developer options through Settings > About phone > Software information > Build number (tap seven times) and modifying the Window animation scale to 0.5x. These adjustments can improve the device's speed and responsiveness.