app update Archives

AppWizard

January 8, 2026

Google is quietly making the Pixel Launcher faster with a new shortcut

Google is rolling out an upgrade to the Pixel Launcher that allows users to launch applications by typing part of the app's name and pressing the Enter key on their keyboard. This change eliminates the need to tap on the app icon from search results, making the app-launching process more efficient. Previously, pressing the bottom-right button on the keyboard would trigger a Google Search instead of launching the app, but the update changes this button to an arrow or Enter key when an app match is detected. This enhancement improves one-handed usability and reflects Google's commitment to refining user experience. The rollout is server-side and not tied to a specific app update, with some users already experiencing the new functionality while others have not yet seen it.

Winsage

December 21, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (Dev & Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (KB5072043) has been released to the Dev and Beta Channels. Users in the Dev Channel can switch to the Beta Channel while both channels continue to receive the same updates based on Windows 11, version 25H2. New features include Ask Copilot on the taskbar for commercial users, which allows voice or text engagement with contextual information, and enhancements to the taskbar for monitoring AI agents. The update also introduces Agent Launchers for AI agents across apps, improved customization for Narrator announcements, a refined voice typing experience, and a new Discover Windows widget for tips on Windows features. Language support for the Settings Agent has expanded to include additional languages. Fixes have been made for various issues in the taskbar, File Explorer, login screens, and more. Known issues include unresponsiveness of Researcher on the taskbar and problems with Bluetooth device battery levels. The Paint app has been updated with a collapsible toolbar feature.

Winsage

December 21, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (Dev & Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (KB5072043) is being released to the Dev & Beta Channels. Insiders in the Dev Channel can switch to the Beta Channel while both channels are offering the same 25H2-based updates. New features include Ask Copilot on the taskbar for commercial customers, which provides one-click access to Microsoft 365 Copilot and a streamlined search experience. The update also introduces Agents on the taskbar for monitoring tasks, Agent Launchers for app integration, and enhanced Narrator customization. Voice typing experience has been improved, and a new Discover Windows widget is being introduced. The Settings Agent now supports additional languages, and the Click to Do feature now supports Microsoft 365 Copilot. Various fixes and known issues have been documented, including improvements to File Explorer and taskbar functionality. The Paint app is also receiving an update with a collapsible toolbar feature.

AppWizard

December 20, 2025

Google Home app update finally makes moving devices from Nest app less painful

Google updated its Google Home app on December 10, allowing users to transfer multiple Nest devices from the Nest app to the Google Home app with a single tap. This update simplifies the process, which previously required transferring devices one at a time. Users can now transition Nest cameras, thermostats, locks, and smoke alarms from 2015 into the Google Home ecosystem. This feature is part of Google's strategy to consolidate Nest devices within the Google Home app and is currently available only to users in the Google Home Public Preview program.

Winsage

December 16, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1362 (Canary Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1362 has been released to the Canary Channel. Key updates include: - Full screen experience (FSE) for handheld devices is now available on more devices, enhancing gaming through the Xbox app. - The Click to Do context menu has been redesigned for easier access to actions like Copy and Save. - Enhancements to the agent in Settings for quicker modifications and more search results. - Windows Studio Effects now supports additional cameras beyond integrated ones. - Drag Tray feature supports multi-file sharing and intelligent app suggestions. - Dark mode improvements in File Explorer for consistency across various dialogs. - Users can manage mobile devices from the Settings under Bluetooth & Devices. - New context menu options for Windows Spotlight backgrounds. - More keyboard settings transitioned to Settings, including character repeat delay and cursor blink rate. - Updates to Game Pass branding in Settings. - New OneDrive icon in Accounts and Homepages within Settings. - Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) will perform a one-time scan for solutions. - Virtual Workspaces can now be activated in Advanced Settings. - Various fixes for issues in File Explorer, Settings, Taskbar, Start menu, internet connectivity, display and graphics, login and lock screens, Narrator, Windows Update, Task Manager, and app responsiveness. Additionally, Paint version 11.2511.281.0 introduces a collapsible toolbar feature.

AppWizard

December 16, 2025

Apple TV app update brings Google Cast support on Android

The latest update of the Apple TV app for Android devices has introduced Google Cast support, allowing users to cast content. The Google Cast icon is now located to the left of the profile avatar in the top-right corner and can also be found within the fullscreen player. The update includes a miniplayer with playback information and controls, as well as a fullscreen portrait player with large buttons for navigation. The homescreen icon has been refined to be slightly smaller. Version 2.2 of the app is being distributed via the Play Store.

BetaBeacon

December 9, 2025

Starbucks for Life not working? Here’s how to fix the game on iPhone, Android & web

- Many players were able to access the game only after installing the latest Starbucks app update. - If the Starbucks for Life Merrython banner does not appear, users can try logging out and back into their account, using private or incognito mode on their browser, switching devices, or clearing their browser cache. - If the Starbucks for Life banner is not showing in the app, users can try force closing the app, restarting their phone, scrolling the homepage, and checking under Rewards or Messages. - If the game loads but won't save points or progress, it is a server-side glitch with no user fix. - If the game works once and then breaks again, it is a sign that Starbucks is applying live patches causing instability. - Users should stop troubleshooting if they see errors such as "Site down for maintenance," blank white screen, game disappearing after loading, login loop on every device, or prize screen looping to the homepage, as these confirm a platform-wide issue.

Winsage

December 8, 2025

Windows 11 receives new preview update: Microsoft is working on this

The latest preview version, KB5070316, build 26220.7344, is available through the dev and beta channels of the Insider Program. It enhances Windows 11 with stronger AI integration, an improved multimedia stack, and initial centralized app update management. Key features include native support for the Model Context Protocol for better interaction between digital agents and applications, and the introduction of Windows MIDI Services for enhanced music and media production capabilities. An App Updates tab has been added to the settings menu to facilitate updates based on user activity. Quick Machine Recovery is now enabled by default on non-domain-bound Pro devices. The build addresses several bugs, including issues with the desktop search window, fingerprint recognition, and the Windows P combination, but users may still experience limitations with the Start menu, Notification Center, File Explorer, and battery level reporting for Bluetooth devices.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

Google’s Recorder app update tweaks a key audio feature

Google has rolled out an update for its Recorder app on Pixel devices, introducing a new account switcher interface and enhancements to audio recording features. The Clear Voice feature has been rebranded as Auto Clear Voice, which now uses more storage space but retains its functionality. A new chip on the playback screen indicates when Auto Clear Voice is active and allows users to revert to the original audio. The updated account switcher UI aims to improve the management of multiple accounts within the app.

AppWizard

November 27, 2025

My dad filled his phone with random PDF apps and I blame Google

The author's father struggled to open a PDF on his HONOR phone, despite the device's native office suite supporting PDF files. He downloaded multiple misleading PDF apps from the Play Store, which did not resolve the issue. Eventually, he received a deceptive alert suggesting he update his PDF application, which led him to download yet another app. The problem was resolved when the author advised him to uninstall WPS Office, eliminating the misleading alerts and allowing PDFs to open correctly. A report from Malwarebytes indicated that only 15% of users feel confident identifying scams, highlighting the challenges users face in navigating the Android ecosystem. The Google Play Store has been criticized for hosting low-quality apps and deceptive ads, with a report from Zscaler noting the presence of hundreds of malicious apps. The author emphasizes the need for stricter advertising practices and better management of preinstalled apps to protect less tech-savvy users.