app versions Archives

AppWizard

January 8, 2026

Google could soon bring the new Fitbit app experience to free users

Google is enhancing the Fitbit app experience for free-tier users, expanding access to the redesigned app initially available only to Fitbit Premium subscribers and Public Preview participants. The latest version, v4.60, introduces features such as weekly cardio targets, new Fitness and Sleep tabs, and a Health tab for deeper health data analysis. Users will be able to switch between the standard and redesigned app versions. However, certain features, like the AI-powered "Ask Coach," will remain exclusive to Premium subscribers. The changes are part of Google's commitment to health and fitness technology and will soon include a broader audience in the Public Preview program.

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.

AppWizard

December 15, 2025

Google Makes Uninstalling System App Updates More Complicated Than It Needs to Be

Google has removed the "Uninstall updates" button from the Play Store interface for core system apps, requiring users to navigate through the Settings app to roll back updates. This change affects several key system applications, including Android Auto, Android System WebView, and Pixel Camera Services. Users can now only find an "Open" button in the Play Store for these apps. To uninstall updates, users must long-press the app icon, select "App info," tap the three-dot menu, and choose "Uninstall updates." This alteration adds complexity to the process of reverting to earlier app versions.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

That popular YouTube alternative on Android TV was secretly distributing infected builds

SmartTube, a popular YouTube application for Android TV and Fire TV, was removed from these platforms due to malware that compromised the developer's build machine. Some versions released earlier this month contained this malware. Users are advised to reset their devices and review their YouTube and Google account information. Initially, it was thought that a digital signature leak was the reason for the app's removal, but it was later confirmed that the build environment was compromised. The developers are investigating which specific versions were affected, with versions 30.43 and 30.47 flagged as malicious. A new version, build number 30.56, has been released from a secure environment, but previous versions have been removed from GitHub. Users are recommended to perform a factory reset, review account permissions, and check YouTube activity for unusual activity.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

SmartTube app was infected by malware, here’s what happened

Google Play Protect disabled the SmartTube app on Android TV, labeling it as potentially harmful due to a compromised digital signature. The developer, Yuliskov, confirmed that the signature breach allowed for the creation of counterfeit app versions that could carry malware. A user discovered that SmartTube version 30.51 contained a hidden library that collected device-specific information and transmitted it to external servers, raising concerns about botnet activity. Certain versions of SmartTube, specifically 30.43 and 30.47, were confirmed to have been compromised due to malware on the developer's computer. Users were advised to uninstall infected versions, including 28.56, 28.58, 28.66, 28.75, 28.78, 29.13, 29.37, 29.62, 29.63, 29.85, 30.27, 30.32, 30.38, 30.40, 30.43, 30.44, 30.45, and 30.51, and to download the newly released safe version from trusted sources. Yuliskov assured users that the compromised computer has been cleaned and that new releases are secure.

AppWizard

October 28, 2025

Pixel Camera finally works again on GrapheneOS — and no downgrade is needed

The Pixel Camera app has faced issues on de-Googled operating systems like GrapheneOS, crashing or failing to launch without Google Play Services due to a missing font. Users have reverted to older app versions for functionality. A solution is available for GrapheneOS users on version v2025102300 and earlier, allowing them to install the GmsCompatLib app version 100 from the GrapheneOS store to fix the crashing issue. An upcoming update, version v2025102600, is in Alpha and will include the necessary fixes natively, eliminating the need for the compatibility app. Users can choose to install the app or wait for the system update.

AppWizard

October 24, 2025

Google Meet is letting Android users trick their coworkers with Halloween effects

Google Meet is introducing Halloween-themed features, including AI-powered makeup that allows users to adopt various looks, such as "Goth Chic," mummy, or zombie, during video calls. Users can choose from 12 makeup styles, with the new Halloween option added to the existing features. Pre-made virtual backgrounds are also available, and users can create custom backgrounds using AI. These features are accessible on both the web and mobile app versions of Google Meet for subscribers of Google AI Pro or Google AI Ultra.

Winsage

October 22, 2025

Windows 11 now forcibly updates apps from the Microsoft Store – and not everyone is happy

Windows 11 users are now required to have applications from the Microsoft Store update automatically, with the option to postpone updates for a limited time. Microsoft has removed the ability for users to opt-out of these automatic updates to enhance security and ensure timely application of patches and improvements. This change has been noted in discussions on platforms like Reddit and aims to protect users from vulnerabilities. While this decision may streamline security, it raises concerns about user autonomy, particularly for those on mobile connections or who prefer older app versions. The automatic update policy only applies to Microsoft Store apps; other applications still require manual updates.

Winsage

October 21, 2025

Microsoft quietly removes ability to permanently stop apps from automatically updating on Windows 11 — just like system updates

Microsoft has changed the functionality of the Microsoft Store, affecting app update management on Windows 10 and Windows 11. Users can no longer completely disable automatic updates; instead, they can pause updates for one to five weeks. The Microsoft Store now indicates, "You may pause automatic updates for a period of time." This change has not been officially documented in a changelog. While some users appreciate the extensive app catalog and centralized update management, the inability to fully disable updates can be frustrating for those who prefer specific app versions. However, this change may enhance security by ensuring users have the latest versions of applications.

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Delete these two Android apps now: Experts warn they’re secretly stealing your personal data

Online security is a significant challenge due to the vulnerability of smartphones, which are targets for cybercriminals. Two Android applications, Wuta Camera and Max Browser, have been identified as threats associated with the Necro Trojan, a spyware that steals personal information and injects advertisements. Wuta Camera version 6.3.7.138 and later is free from malware, while users of Max Browser are advised to uninstall it immediately. The Necro Trojan, first identified in 2019, uses steganography to conceal malicious code, allowing it to evade security checks. Unofficial app versions from unauthorized sites also pose risks. To protect against these threats, users should keep apps updated, use trusted antivirus software, download from official app stores, remain vigilant, and be selective with app installations.