app interface Archives

AppWizard

December 3, 2024

Microsoft accuses Google of blocking direct game purchases on Xbox Android app

Microsoft has delayed the launch of its Android app portal for purchasing and playing Xbox games following a court ruling against Google's policies on Android applications. The Xbox app aims to allow users to purchase games for streaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming, taking advantage of a recent court order requiring Google to stop blocking third-party storefronts on Android. Xbox President Sarah Bond stated the company's commitment to providing players with more options, initially through the Google Play Store in the U.S. Microsoft has also enhanced the experience for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, allowing them to stream games outside of the subscription service, while currently directing mobile users to purchase titles via a web interface to avoid commissions from app stores. The announcement came after a U.S. judge ruled against Google in an antitrust case, although Google received a temporary stay on the enforcement of the ruling. Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, criticized Google's 30 percent commission as detrimental to game streaming profits. The situation has attracted regulatory scrutiny, with Apple beginning to allow mobile cloud gaming apps on its app store due to legislative changes in the EU. Microsoft's app represents a strategic effort to expand the Xbox brand beyond traditional console gaming, supported by a new advertising campaign.

AppWizard

November 8, 2024

Google apps gets new ‘Activity’ tab for easy access to search history and saved items

Google is introducing a new “Activity” tab within the Google app, which will replace the existing “Saved” tab and provide easy access to search history from both the Google app and Chrome. This feature is currently being tested and aims to create a centralized hub for managing saved items, allowing users to view, manage, and take actions on their search history. The development of this feature has been in progress for nearly two months and is currently accessible to a select group of users as part of a limited rollout. A user demonstrated the functionality on a Pixel 7 Pro, indicating a user-friendly rollout process, while the Pixel 8 Pro has not yet received the update.

AppWizard

September 17, 2024

Amazon updates its Android app interface with Rufus AI features

Amazon has updated its Android app, introducing the Rufus AI shopping assistant to enhance user experience. The Rufus button has been added to the app, which is now being rolled out to a wider audience of US customers. Users can refresh the app by force stopping and restarting it if they do not see the changes. The app features a redesigned search bar and a slimmer top section with compact tabs for store categories. Recently viewed items are integrated into banner ads, and a new Rufus icon in the bottom navigation bar allows for quick access to product information and services. Users can ask questions about products through an expandable tab while browsing. Core functionalities remain largely unchanged. Amazon is also preparing to launch an upgraded version of Alexa later this fall, potentially with a subscription fee, while the classic version will remain free.

AppWizard

September 1, 2024

Android Auto preparing Gemini Live support and ‘local media’ controls alongside radio

Google is enhancing its Android Auto platform with new features aimed at improving the in-car experience. Key developments include ongoing support for "local media" and the ability to control the car's radio through Android Auto. The latest version, Android Auto 12.7, suggests users may soon be able to add and remove "Favorite" radio stations via an app interface, while Android Auto 12.8 beta introduces features related to "Car Local Media." New icons for radio and local media playback have also been introduced, although they are not yet activated for users. Additionally, Google is preparing for the integration of Gemini Live support within Android Auto, with references to a capability to "start conversation." This feature, along with some assets related to Gemini, is not yet live. The term "Kitt_live" has been associated with Google's voice functionality in vehicles, indicating an ongoing interest in enhancing in-car voice interactions. The Gemini Live feature was recently launched with the Pixel 9 series and is rolling out to Android users in English, alongside Gemini Advanced. The rollout timeline for these features remains uncertain, but challenges with Google Assistant on Android Auto suggest a significant upgrade is forthcoming.

AppWizard

August 20, 2024

Google’s Gemini is lighting up Android screens with a fresh new look

Google's Gemini AI assistant on Android is receiving a makeover with a floating panel that features a glowing animation. This panel integrates with the current app without overwhelming the screen. A new "Ask about this video" chip on YouTube replaces the old prompt, allowing users to obtain summaries or ask questions about video content. The glowing animation activates when users summon Gemini, enhancing user experience while remaining non-disruptive. The new interface is being rolled out to a select group of users, with plans for broader release soon.

AppWizard

July 12, 2024

Free VPN For Android: Secure Your Mobile Browsing Today

NordVPN is a highly rated free Android VPN with an extensive server network, 256-bit AES encryption, and fast connection speeds. It offers secure and reliable connections with additional features such as multi-hop connections and access to the Tor network. The app interface is intuitive, but the kill switch is not built-in. NordVPN has minimal data logging and offers three pricing plans with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

AppWizard

April 26, 2024

This New Android 15 Feature Will See Tons of Usage

A universal dark mode feature is being developed for Android 15, which will apply a dark theme to all apps, even those without a native dark mode option.