app icons Archives

Winsage

December 14, 2025

Windows 11 lets you shrink taskbar icons for a cleaner, more compact look — here’s how to enable smaller icons easily

Windows 11 has reintroduced the option to use smaller Taskbar icons, which was absent at the operating system's launch. The feature allows users to enable smaller icons without reducing the height of the Taskbar. To activate smaller icons, users need to open Settings, click on Personalization, navigate to the Taskbar page, and adjust the Taskbar behaviors setting. Options include "Always" for consistently smaller icons, "When taskbar is full" for smaller icons when space allows, or "Never" to keep standard-size icons.

Winsage

December 13, 2025

Windows 11 lets you shrink taskbar icons for a cleaner, more compact look — here’s how to enable smaller icons easily

Windows 11 users can now enable smaller Taskbar icons, a feature that was absent at the operating system's launch. The new implementation allows users to adjust icon size without changing the Taskbar's height. To enable smaller icons, users must open Settings, click on Personalization, navigate to the Taskbar page, and adjust the "Show smaller taskbar buttons" setting to "Always," "When taskbar is full," or "Never."

BetaBeacon

December 3, 2025

Google Pixel Phones Just Got a Game‑Changing Android 16 Update

- Google has introduced new screen customizations for Pixel phones in Android 16 QPR2. - Users can now customize app icons with new shape options on the home screen. - Pixel phone users can place widgets on the lock screen by swiping left, with limited options compared to the home screen. - Other lock screen changes include a new low-light mode for the screen saver and fingerprint scanning on the switched-off display. - Users can now disable or reduce blur effects in background elements, adjust HDR intensity, and schedule expanded dark mode. - The update also adds a more flexible split-screen layout, AI-powered notifications, and strengthened parental controls. - Android 16 QPR2 includes the December security patch to fix vulnerabilities and protect against threats.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

Android users warned to check phones now as Google bans apps

Recent findings have revealed that certain widely-used Android applications have been involved in an adware campaign, identified as 'GhostAd', which drains phone resources and disrupts normal usage. This malicious software disguised itself as utility and emoji-editing tools and infiltrated at least 15 applications, targeting unsuspecting users. Many of these compromised apps were available on Google’s Play Store, including the GenMoji Studio app, which became popular in the 'Top Free Tools' category. Users reported issues such as disappearing app icons, intrusive advertisement pop-ups, and sluggish device performance after installation. Google has removed all compromised applications from its Play Store, but users who installed them must manually delete the harmful software. Check Point noted that the GhostAd campaign blurs the line between marketing and malware, repurposing users' phones to generate revenue. To protect against future threats, users are advised to scrutinize app reviews, verify the app creator's reputation, and exercise caution with permissions.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

Google bans popular apps as Android users told to check their phones

Android users are advised to examine their devices due to Google's decision to blacklist several applications infected with GhostAd malware, which drains battery life and mobile data. The malware has infiltrated at least 15 popular applications, including utility and emoji-editing tools, leading to significant resource drainage and disruption of normal device functionality. Many of these compromised apps were available on Google's Play Store, with one app, GenMoji Studio, reaching the number two spot in the 'Top Free Tools' category. Users have reported issues such as disappearing app icons, incessant pop-up ads, and decreased device performance. Google has removed the compromised apps from its Play Store, but users must still delete them from their devices. Millions of Android users have unknowingly become part of a hidden ad network due to this malware. Users are encouraged to review app feedback, verify app developers' credibility, and exercise caution with permissions to protect their devices from future threats.

AppWizard

November 30, 2025

Urgent Google app ban affects millions of Android users, check your phone now

A significant adware campaign named "GhostAd" has been identified, affecting Android users globally. This adware infiltrates various applications that appear to be benign utility tools and emoji-editing software, operating a persistent advertising engine that drains device resources and disrupts functionality. At least 15 different infected applications were deployed, some of which were available on Google’s Play Store, including one that reached the number two spot in the "Top Free Tools" category. Users have reported issues such as persistent pop-up ads, disappearing app icons during uninstallation attempts, and slowed device performance. Google has removed the identified infected applications from the Play Store, but existing installations will not be automatically deleted, requiring users to review their apps. The campaign highlights the risks of advertising tools being misused to erode user trust in mobile ecosystems.

Winsage

November 11, 2025

Windows 11’s November Patch Tuesday update brings new Start, battery icon improvements, and important Task Manager fix

Microsoft has rolled out the November Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, designated as KB5068861 and build 26200.7121, which is now available through Windows Update. Key features include: - A revamped Start menu interface allowing users to pin more app icons, hide the recommended feed, modify the all apps list display, toggle the visibility of the Phone Link companion, and enjoy a larger Start menu that adjusts to screen size. - An updated Taskbar battery icon that is larger, changes color based on battery and power state, and includes a battery percentage indicator. The update also addresses several critical fixes: - Voice Access issue resolved where it would fail during initial setup without a connected microphone. - Fixed a problem where selecting the desktop could open Task View inadvertently. - Corrected an issue in the HTTP.sys request parser for compliance with RFC 9112 standard. Users can download KB5068861 via Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update catalog.

AppWizard

November 6, 2025

Here’s what the redesigned Google Photos and Maps icons look like

Google is updating the icons for its Maps and Photos applications, moving away from the traditional four-color palette to a gradient color redesign. The Photos app will have a more minimalistic change with slightly wider petals, while the Maps icon will undergo a more significant transformation, appearing stout with a seamless blend of colors. These updates reflect a broader branding strategy initiated in May, aligning with the introduction of a new "G" logo. The updated icons were first observed on the Apple App Store, suggesting they will soon be available on the Play Store.

AppWizard

October 30, 2025

Exclusive: Android Auto is preparing home screen widgets — here’s your first look

Android Auto is set to introduce home screen widgets, codenamed “Earth,” allowing users to integrate widgets from mobile applications into the Android Auto dashboard. Currently, Android Auto features “Taskbar Widgets” for quick app controls. The new home screen widgets will enable users to select one widget to occupy one side of the home screen, taking up 35-40% of the width. To add widgets in the current beta version, users must navigate to Settings > “Customize Earth,” choose an app, confirm the selection, and manage the widget. Users need to grant permissions for widget creation, after which they can select from compatible apps. Widgets will display on the dashboard, with the Spotify widget showing playback controls but lacking song titles due to layout design limitations. Testing reveals varying performance levels among widgets, with the Pixel Weather widget functioning well when location access is enabled. Key limitations include the ability to display only one widget at a time, no option to add multiple widgets from different apps, limited size adjustment, and some widgets not functioning correctly due to design issues. Widgets that work well typically do not require opening their companion apps. Improvements and better compatibility are expected in future updates.

AppWizard

October 20, 2025

Android App Pair: Boost Multitasking with Split-Screen Shortcuts

Android users are increasingly utilizing the App Pair functionality, which allows for split-screen usage of two applications simultaneously, enhancing multitasking and workflow efficiency. Users can create shortcuts to launch paired apps, such as a note-taking app and a web browser, facilitating real-time research and documentation. This feature is particularly user-friendly on Samsung devices and has been enhanced in recent Android versions, including Android 15, which introduces native support for app pairs. While basic split-screen functionality has existed since Android 7.0, app pairing reduces setup time and improves productivity for various professionals, including financial traders and healthcare workers. However, not all Android devices support this feature natively, and users on stock Android may need to seek workarounds. The demand for such multitasking features has increased with the rise of remote work, as they maximize phone usability for tasks like video calls and note-taking. Future developments may include AI-driven suggestions for app pairs based on user behavior.