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Google eases U.S. Android app billing and distribution rules
AppWizard
October 30, 2025

Google eases U.S. Android app billing and distribution rules

Google is implementing changes to Android app distribution and billing in the U.S. following a federal court injunction related to the Epic Games antitrust case. This allows Android users to see links within apps directing them to external websites, alternative app stores, or merchant purchase pages, enabling various payment methods beyond Google Play Billing, such as credit cards, PayPal, and direct merchant checkouts. Developers can now promote their own stores and route transactions through any payment processor, potentially offering lower prices or promotional offers. This policy shift applies only to U.S. app users, with existing policies remaining in place for other regions. Historically, Play Store fees were as high as 30%, but the new ability to transact outside the Play Store may lead to cost savings for consumers and increased investment in user acquisition and content development by companies. Developers are expected to experiment with pricing strategies, including web-only introductory rates and loyalty discounts. Google must now compete for developer loyalty based on service quality rather than just platform policies. User trust and safety remain priorities for Google, which will continue to enforce measures to deter scams and harmful applications. Developers will need to implement secure transaction flows and recognizable domains to maintain user confidence. Key questions for the future of the U.S. Android app ecosystem include whether consumer prices will decrease, if major brands will adopt external checkout strategies, and how Google will enhance discovery and compliance tools for developers.
Windows XP never really died — it just moved into your pocket
Winsage
October 21, 2025

Windows XP never really died — it just moved into your pocket

A developer named Gorjan Jovanovski has created a Windows XP launcher for Android devices, available for free download. The launcher replicates a fully functional Windows XP desktop environment, including a Start menu, settings dialogs, and a working version of Internet Explorer. It also features designs reminiscent of Windows 95, 98, ME, and 2000, complete with unique welcome screens, music, and sounds. Key features include customizable desktop icons, a functional Start Menu, gesture controls, classic wallpapers, calendar and weather integration, and a Windows Update feature. Jovanovski has developed retro apps that mimic original counterparts, such as Internet Explorer 6, Winamp, Notepad, Phone Dialer, Registry Editor, and classic games like Minesweeper and Solitaire. Users report a complete experience, with the launcher performing well on devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. However, sideloading the 72MB launcher poses security risks, requiring users to disable firewalls and grant manual permissions. The launcher is not available on the Google Play Store due to copyright issues, and the code is not hosted on GitHub, raising concerns about security and future updates.
Android Auto seems to be removing its 'GameSnacks' collection
BetaBeacon
October 7, 2025

Android Auto seems to be removing its ‘GameSnacks’ collection

Android Auto has removed the "GameSnacks" collection of games from the app launcher, leading to speculation that Google is phasing out this feature. Users have reported that GameSnacks are disappearing from beta releases starting with Android Auto 15.2, although they are still visible in the launcher settings. The specific Android Auto version causing this change is unclear, making it challenging to determine if it is limited to the beta track. It remains to be seen if this change will extend to stable versions of Android Auto in the future.
Stop struggling with Windows Search — try these 6 game‑changing alternatives
Winsage
September 17, 2025

Stop struggling with Windows Search — try these 6 game‑changing alternatives

Windows 11's built-in search feature is often slow and inefficient, particularly with non-indexed locations and numerous files. It has a cluttered search home filled with advertisements. Several third-party tools are recommended as alternatives to enhance search functionality: - Command Palette: Part of PowerToys, it allows instant results for queries and supports command execution, quick navigation, and customization. - Fluent Search: Offers a comprehensive search experience with a native file indexer, rapid results, and OCR technology for searching visible content on screens. - Everything: Focuses on speed by indexing files and folders instantly, providing real-time results based on names, though it lacks additional features. - Listary: Integrates with Windows and File Explorer, allowing direct searches within these environments and offering customization for commands and automation. - Flow Launcher: A free, open-source app launcher that enhances search by integrating with the Everything indexer and includes built-in plugins for added functionality. - RayCast: An app launcher in beta for Windows, originally for macOS, featuring productivity tools and AI capabilities, allowing efficient task performance without a mouse. These tools cater to various user needs, improving the search experience on Windows 11.
Windows 11 version 25H2 is almost here — and it's so boring it almost becomes interesting
Winsage
September 16, 2025

Windows 11 version 25H2 is almost here — and it’s so boring it almost becomes interesting

Windows 11 version 25H2 is set to launch in 2025 without any new features, serving as an enablement package that activates existing features rather than introducing new code. It shares the same development branch as version 24H2, meaning future updates will apply to both versions. Key changes include the removal of outdated features like PowerShell 2.0 and WMIC tools, and commercial users will be able to disable certain built-in Microsoft Store apps via Group Policy. Microsoft is developing new functionalities for both versions, including a revamped Start menu that improves app accessibility, enhancements for handheld gaming devices, and compatibility of Windows Studio Effects with USB webcams. The update cycle for Windows 11 has been less predictable compared to macOS, which is releasing substantial updates.
4 features in KDE Plasma that Windows 11 users are sorely missing out on
Winsage
August 20, 2025

4 features in KDE Plasma that Windows 11 users are sorely missing out on

Many users transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 have expressed dissatisfaction due to the removal of beloved features. Some have turned to alternatives like Linux, specifically Fedora KDE. KDE offers significant customization options, including the ability to place taskbars on any edge of the screen and create multiple taskbars for different purposes. Its file explorer, Dolphin, allows users to split the window into two views for easier file management. The Krunner search bar provides a quick way to launch applications, and KDE's Application Launcher can be resized and customized extensively, unlike Windows 11's Start menu. Overall, KDE is seen as a more flexible and feature-rich alternative to Windows 11.
Google Tasks gets one M3 Expressive tweak, now in web app launcher
AppWizard
August 19, 2025

Google Tasks gets one M3 Expressive tweak, now in web app launcher

Google Tasks has been updated on Android to align with the design of other Google applications, introducing a more organized interface known as the M3 Expressive tweak. The details page for tasks has been restructured to group key elements such as title, details, date/time, and subtasks together. The status bar has been redesigned, featuring a "Mark completed" button in a pill shape for better visibility. While the homepage remains unchanged, users are requesting a redesign of the Google Tasks homescreen widget. Additionally, a new shortcut has been introduced for the web app launcher, linking directly to tasks.google.com.
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