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Google blocks unverified Android apps, millions affected
AppWizard
January 17, 2026

Google blocks unverified Android apps, millions affected

Google has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of the Android app installation process, introducing a more stringent verification protocol for sideloaded apps. This change aims to enhance user security by mitigating risks associated with unverified applications that may contain malware or security vulnerabilities. The new verification process is expected to impact millions of Android users globally and will require developers to ensure their applications meet the new standards set by Google. This could lead to changes in app development and distribution practices. Users may need to reconsider their approach to sideloading as the balance between convenience and security becomes increasingly important.
This ideal distro for Linux newbies includes a bonus for Windows users
Winsage
January 15, 2026

This ideal distro for Linux newbies includes a bonus for Windows users

Q4OS is a Linux distribution built on Debian, designed for users transitioning from Windows. It features the KDE Plasma desktop environment, known for its balance of elegance and user-friendliness, and also supports the Trinity desktop environment. The Welcome app includes a Desktop Profiler tool for switching between different Q4OS versions and installing alternative desktop environments. Q4OS comes preinstalled with applications like LibreOffice, Chromium, Thunderbird, and VLC, and utilizes the Flatpak package manager for additional software. Users can access apps through KDE Discover and the Q4OS Software Center, which includes tools like LookSwitcher for changing KDE Plasma themes. Q4OS prioritizes stability by following the Debian development model, ensuring a reliable operating system. It is available for free download, and the q4os-winsetup tool allows Windows users to set up a dual-boot system.
Four Google Play Store Features That Change How App Installs and Updates Work
AppWizard
January 5, 2026

Four Google Play Store Features That Change How App Installs and Updates Work

The Google Play Store has introduced several enhancements to improve the app installation and update experience for users. Key features include: 1. Per-app auto-update control: Users can now enable or disable auto-updates for individual apps, allowing essential apps to remain on stable versions while less critical ones update automatically. 2. Built-in download manager shortcut: A new circular icon on the Apps and Games pages provides access to a list of recently installed or updated apps, showing timestamps and allowing users to launch apps directly from this list. 3. Auto-open when ready: A toggle that, when activated, launches an app automatically after installation, accompanied by a notification with a countdown timer for user intervention. 4. Viewing changelogs without opening app pages: Users can now view update changelogs directly from the app management screen without navigating to each app's store listing, enhancing efficiency in reviewing updates. These features collectively enhance user control and transparency in app management.
Microsoft's change to Appxsvc may slow some Windows 11 PCs
Winsage
December 30, 2025

Microsoft’s change to Appxsvc may slow some Windows 11 PCs

Microsoft is modifying core system settings for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 by enabling the AppX Deployment Service (Appxsvc) to launch automatically upon boot-up, transitioning from a manual trigger system. This change was confirmed in the December 2025 "Patch Tuesday" update (KB5072033) for both Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025. The Appxsvc will now remain active in the background from the moment the computer powers on, regardless of Microsoft Store access, to enhance system stability and minimize app installation failures or update glitches. Microsoft warns against manually reverting this setting, as it could lead to malfunctions in Store apps and essential services. Analysts suggest this move aligns with a strategy for updating Microsoft Store apps directly through Windows Update.
2025 in review: How we elevated the Microsoft Store experience
Winsage
December 18, 2025

2025 in review: How we elevated the Microsoft Store experience

In 2025, the Microsoft Store on Windows attracted over 250 million monthly users and introduced new offerings, including productivity tools like Raycast, Noteastic, and Cephable, as well as popular games such as Fortnite and Hollow Knight: Silksong. Accessibility apps like DotVista and applications like RunCat 365 and Adobe Premier Elements 2026 were also launched. In collaboration with Tencent, the catalog in China expanded to include mini apps and games like Rednote and Fire to the Zombies. The 2025 App Awards winners were announced, recognizing exceptional value for Windows users. The Microsoft Store introduced Special Events to help users discover timely content within their favorite apps. A dedicated Themes department was launched to simplify the process of personalizing computing environments. Enhancements made since June focused on providing a tailored experience, with personalized content available on home and app pages. The app installation process was streamlined with multi-app install features and improved methods for finding and launching apps through the Windows Search Bar. The AI Hub was refreshed to help users discover AI-powered apps, with new app badges indicating AI capabilities. Copilot now assists with Store browsing in the U.S., and finding Agents in Microsoft 365 Copilot has been made easier. Key improvements included quicker navigation, improved error handling, the ability to uninstall apps directly from the Library, better update orchestration, and enhanced search functionality.
All phones sold in India will be pre-installed with a state-owned 'security' app that needs access to all phone permissions — and you can't delete or uninstall it
AppWizard
December 2, 2025

All phones sold in India will be pre-installed with a state-owned ‘security’ app that needs access to all phone permissions — and you can’t delete or uninstall it

The Indian government's Department of Telecommunications has mandated that all phone manufacturers pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on their devices to enhance connectivity and security. Android manufacturers must comply with this directive for future models, and an OTA update will be provided for existing devices. Apple is also required to include the app on iPhones. The Sanchar Saathi app has over 10 million downloads and requires extensive permissions, including access to phone state, SMS, camera, call logs, and device storage. Manufacturers such as Vivo, Xiaomi, and OnePlus have not yet commented on the directive, while OPPO is assessing the situation and Samsung has not responded to inquiries.
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