App Store Archives

BetaBeacon

July 2, 2026

Your ‘Tiny Bookshop’ Opens Its Doors on July 9 for Android and IOS

Tiny Bookshop is now available on the App Store and Google Play for .99, with no advertising or microtransactions. The game allows players to run a bookshop in a cozy coastal town, interacting with diverse characters and customizing their shop. Key features include a touch-first interface, hand-drawn art, and ambient piano music.

AppWizard

July 1, 2026

South Korean trade watchdog alleges Google abused its position in Android app store

South Korea's antitrust regulator, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), has raised concerns about Google's practices in the Android app marketplace, identifying potential abuses of market dominance that may have stifled competition. The KFTC's Market Surveillance Bureau reported that Google's actions have impacted approximately 14.16 trillion won (around billion) in revenue. The report focuses on Google's "Games/Google Velocity Program," which operated from July 2019 to March 2026, providing financial support to game developers in exchange for launching games on Google's app store under favorable terms compared to competitors. This program reportedly diminished developers' incentives to use rival app stores, effectively creating a state of exclusive dealing with Google. If found guilty of market abuse, Google could face a fine of up to 6% of the affected revenue, approximately 0 million. Google has eight weeks to respond to the report, and the KFTC will issue a final ruling thereafter.

AppWizard

June 28, 2026

These 5 open-source utilities should be on every Android phone

Sefirah is a local companion app for Android that connects devices on the same network, allowing users to manage notifications, messages, and applications in one place, with clipboard mirroring for enhanced productivity. PhotoSwooper is a free photo management app that allows users to swipe left or right to delete or keep images, includes an undo option, and lets users customize folders to exclude from sorting. Neo Store is an alternative app store that builds apps from public source code, prioritizing safety and allowing users to add multiple repositories and update all open-source applications simultaneously. Heliboard is a privacy-focused keyboard app that operates offline, ensuring user data remains secure, and offers features like gesture typing. LocalSend enables file sharing over a local network across various devices, enhancing the experience as more users adopt the app.

AppWizard

June 27, 2026

Russian citizens told “switch to Android” after Apple blocks key Russian apps

VK Group has expressed dissatisfaction with the removal of its applications from the Apple App Store, stating that it occurred without warning or explanation. The company emphasized that it has never been subject to sanctions and provided legal opinions supporting this claim. Despite the removal, VK's Android applications remain operational, and users can access them through various platforms. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, commented on Apple's actions as "bizarre" and suggested users adapt by switching to Android or local services.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Banking Apps, No Google, and a Locked Bootloader: How iodé Makes Privacy Android Work for Everyone

Brian from iodé discussed the project's goal of creating a user-friendly, privacy-focused Android distribution. Key features include a tracker blocker that enhances user privacy and two app stores—F-Droid and Aurora Store—to address app compatibility concerns. Users can uninstall pre-installed apps and experience reduced notifications and ads. iodé promotes sustainability by encouraging the use of refurbished devices and aims to support a wider range of devices beyond just Google Pixels. The user base is estimated at over 10,000 individuals across various countries, with a focus on privacy and usability. iodé offers integrated privacy features and monthly security updates, supporting over 60 devices.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Apple removes apps of Russian social media giant VK from App Store without notice

User consent is essential for online interactions, and visitors are invited to accept an updated cookie policy designed to enhance user experience and transparency. By browsing the site, users agree to the revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, which aim to protect user information while improving their experience. Users can modify cookie settings through their browser, allowing for personalization of their digital experience. The policies are clear and accessible, ensuring users are informed about data usage, and by agreeing to the terms, users help create a more tailored online environment. The commitment to user trust and satisfaction is emphasized in the ongoing refinement of these practices.

AppWizard

June 25, 2026

From Idea to Launch: Essential Steps for Building a Successful Android App

Building a successful app requires transforming a strong idea into a useful, reliable, and discoverable product. Key steps include addressing a genuine problem, developing an effective initial version, conducting thorough testing, and launching with a strategic plan. Many apps fail by neglecting essential steps, leading to confusion or lack of real need. It is important to identify specific problems the app aims to solve rather than starting with an extensive feature list. Understanding the target audience and their pain points is crucial for making informed decisions. Validation can be achieved by examining reviews of competing apps and engaging with potential users to assess interest in the solution. The initial app version should be the smallest iteration that delivers tangible results, focusing on the primary user journey. Outlining the user flow is important for a smooth experience, ensuring that permission requests are logical and intuitive. Early-stage apps should exhibit stability, integrating analytics and crash reporting from the beginning to understand user behavior. A gradual launch is recommended, starting with internal tests and moving to closed tests with target audience members. This phased approach allows for learning and adaptation, ensuring that the initial version effectively addresses a real problem and engages users.

AppWizard

June 25, 2026

Apple has removed this Russian application from the App Store

Apple has removed VKontakte (VK) from its App Store, as confirmed by VK Group. VK stated that its apps are no longer available for download or updates on Apple devices, which they claim restricts access for Russian users to popular services. Apple justified the removal by stating it complies with laws and sanctions, though VK noted it has never been subjected to U.S. sanctions. The Kremlin has called Apple's decision "bizarre" and is seeking clarification, with Russia's digital development ministry labeling the action as politically motivated and asserting there are no grounds for blocking VK apps.

BetaBeacon

June 25, 2026

Google Play Store Fees Will be Lowered Thanks to Epic Games Lawsuit, Settlement

Google Play Store fees are getting lower starting on June 30, with the service fee starting at 10% on the first million in annual earnings. Developers using Google Play's billing system will pay an additional 5% billing fee. The changes are a result of Epic Games' lawsuit against Google, which required the company to make structural changes to its Play Store operations. Apple also made changes to its App Store policies following a lawsuit from Epic.

AppWizard

June 25, 2026

Google’s new rules for the app store will allow alternative billing next week

Google is overhauling its app store billing structure, moving away from the 30 percent commission rate. A tiered fee system will be introduced, allowing developers to potentially receive direct payments from users. Developers earning over one million dollars annually will have a reduced rate of 20 percent on new in-app purchases and 10 percent on subscriptions. Google is launching two new initiatives, the Games Level Up and Apps Experience programs, to reward developers who meet specific performance benchmarks and guidelines. Changes to the billing system will roll out in phases, with updates expected by the end of September 2026 and full implementation by September 30, 2027.