apps Archives

AppWizard

October 10, 2026

A week with Googlebooks: four notes from our testing so far

Google has launched five new Googlebook laptops featuring the Googlebook OS, which has received mixed reviews. While the hardware is praised, the software is criticized for being problematic and not a significant upgrade from ChromeOS. Users report issues such as the inability to run Chrome with separate Google accounts, clunky Android apps, and awkward command requirements for messaging apps. The app ecosystem is struggling, with many applications failing to adapt to the Googlebook's interface, resulting in a frustrating user experience. Linux applications face integration challenges, complicating multitasking. Despite some successful features like file transfer and notification responses between Googlebook and Android devices, users experience frequent connectivity issues and sluggish performance.

AppWizard

October 10, 2026

New Menu Added! Android’s “Google Play Store” Integrates Google Store

A new "Buy devices" menu has been integrated into the Android version of the "Google Play Store" app as of early October 2026, allowing users to access a curated selection of products from the "Google Store," primarily focusing on Google Pixel devices like the "Pixel 11" series and the "Google Pixel Watch 4 / 5." This feature follows earlier hints from Google in July 2025 and a temporary display in March 2026. The menu simplifies the purchasing process for these devices, although it does not include the entire range of products available on the "Google Store." The app also frequently features special offers on Google Pixel devices, with anticipation for future promotions related to the integration.

BetaBeacon

October 10, 2026

LDPlayer vs MuMu vs NoxPlayer: 8-Year Android Gap

LDPlayer, MuMu Player, and NoxPlayer are BlueStacks alternatives that are popular among users. LDPlayer and MuMu Player each have roughly 22,200 monthly searches in the US, putting them on par with BlueStacks in search demand. NoxPlayer trails with around 2,400 monthly searches. LDPlayer is marketed towards gamers who want multi-instance farming for mobile RPGs, MuMu Player boasts a newer Android core and high-refresh gaming modes, and NoxPlayer is known for its automation and scripting tools. LDPlayer's latest version is LDPlayer 14, MuMu Player is on version 6.0, and NoxPlayer is still on Android 7. LDPlayer has no native macOS build, MuMu Player has official Windows and macOS installers, and NoxPlayer's macOS build may need to be checked for update recency.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Your Android phone could be infected before you turn it on

Bitdefender researchers have identified a malware campaign called Midnight Mimosa that can be embedded in the software of low-cost Android devices before sale. This malware operates stealthily, allowing it to install and remove applications without user knowledge, generate fraudulent advertising activity, and convert devices into residential-proxy relay nodes for a botnet. It has been found on MediaTek-based, white-label devices marketed under misleading names. Users should be cautious of suspiciously cheap devices and look for signs of infection, such as unexplained ads, unfamiliar apps, sudden battery drain, and discrepancies in model names. Standard uninstallation or factory resets may not remove this malware, and users are advised to update their devices, review app lists, and contact sellers for refunds or replacements if they suspect infection. Mobile protection solutions can help monitor app behavior and alert users to potential threats.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Googlebook Phone Pairing Update Rolls Out Android 17 Pixels

Google has identified a first-time setup timing issue that caused connectivity problems for users pairing their phones with new Googlebook laptops. This issue is not related to hardware malfunctions. A fix is being rolled out via a Google Play Services app update, which began this week, addressing the setup sequence and ensuring the QR code clears correctly for phone recognition. Supported devices running Android 17 can pair successfully, but some users may still experience issues if the update hasn't reached their devices. Samsung Galaxy phones, including the latest models, are not yet compatible, and a fix for these devices is expected in the coming weeks. The update is free and delivered through Google Play Services.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

14 Open-Source Android Apps for Privacy & Control

Users are increasingly seeking control over their digital privacy, leading to the rise of open-source Android applications that provide ad-free experiences and offline functionalities. A selection of 14 vetted applications includes: - Essentials: Unlocks system-level customization without rooting, allowing tweaks like custom notifications and app management. - PhotoU: Uses swipe-based sorting to organize photo galleries offline, enhancing user control over images. - PDF ToolKit: Manages PDF documents locally, enabling merging, splitting, and password protection without cloud uploads. - DNSNet: Acts as a local VPN to block malicious sites and ads before they load, enhancing browsing privacy. - Traffic Light: Monitors network usage in real-time, helping users identify data-draining apps. - CareSleep: Provides offline soundscapes for focus, free from ads and subscriptions. - Weather Master: Customizes weather displays with themes and layouts while respecting user privacy. - Block Ads: Filters ads system-wide without disrupting essential apps through smart split routing. - Nora: A privacy-focused browser that optimizes social media use while blocking trackers. - AB Download Manager: Enhances large file downloads through multi-threading and scheduling. - PixelPlayer: A local music player that adapts to wallpaper and operates ad-free. - MPV EX Video Player: Delivers high-quality video playback without ads, utilizing gesture controls. - CaptureCap: A lightweight screen recorder that captures internal audio without rooting. - Deep De-Noiser: Uses offline AI to remove background noise from recordings, ensuring clear audio quality.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Friday’s Android app deals and freebies: Hyper Light Drifter, Summer Catchers, Dragon Ruins

Friday features significant discounts on Google Play apps and games, including: - Chameleon Run - (Reg. ) - Blackthorn Castle - FREE (Reg. ) - Dragon Ruins - (Reg. ) - Hero Z TPS - .50 (Reg. ) - Hyper Light Drifter – S.E. - .75 (Reg. .50) - Summer Catchers - (Reg. ) - QuickPin – Fast Notes Reminder - FREE (Reg. ) - 1944 Burning Bridges Premium - (Reg. ) - Knots Live Wallpaper - FREE (Reg. .50) - Twilight Pro Unlock - (Reg. ) - White Room - FREE (Reg. [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a vibrant display of savings, Friday brings an array of enticing deals on Google Play apps and games, alongside significant discounts on popular smartphone models. Among the highlights are titles such as Hyper Light Drifter – S.E., Summer Catchers, and Dragon Ruins, each offering a unique gaming experience at reduced prices. The tech-savvy consumer will also find noteworthy discounts on the latest Galaxy models, with the Galaxy S26/Ultra available for over 0 off and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 slashed by up to 8. Additionally, Prime Day deals on the Pixel 11 continue to impress, with savings nearing 0. Today’s highlight Google Play deals: Chameleon Run - (Reg. ) Blackthorn Castle - FREE (Reg. ) Dragon Ruins - (Reg. ) Hero Z TPS - .50 (Reg. ) Hyper Light Drifter – S.E. - .75 (Reg. .50) Summer Catchers - (Reg. ) QuickPin – Fast Notes Reminder - FREE (Reg. ) 1944 Burning Bridges Premium - (Reg. ) Knots Live Wallpaper - FREE (Reg. .50) Twilight Pro Unlock - (Reg. ) White Room - FREE (Reg. [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Friday’s best Google Play app and game deals are ready, including Hyper Light Drifter – S.E., Summer Catchers, Dragon Ruins, The Quest, White Room, Chameleon Run, and more. We also have Galaxy S26/Ultra models up to $500+ off, Galaxy Z Fold 8 up to $628 off, and Day Pixel 11 deals up to nearly $400 off. Scope out the apps below. Galaxy S26/Ultra models are up to $500+ off at Amazon today, deals from $560 Massive deals hit Galaxy Z Fold 8 today: Best Buy open-box units now up to $628 off Prime Day Pixel 11 deals still live, but these Best Buy open-box listings are up to nearly $400 off Today’s highlight Google Play deals: Chameleon Run$1 (Reg. $2) Blackthorn CastleFREE (Reg. $3) Dragon Ruins$1 (Reg. $7) Hero Z TPS$2.50 (Reg. $4) Hyper Light Drifter – S.E.$1.75 (Reg. $5.50) Summer Catchers$1 (Reg. $4) QuickPin – Fast Notes ReminderFREE (Reg. $1) 1944 Burning Bridges Premium$1 (Reg. $3) Knots Live WallpaperFREE (Reg. $5.50) Twilight Pro Unlock$5 (Reg. $10) White RoomFREE (Reg. $0.50) Circle Jump$0 (Reg. $8) The Quest$4 (Reg. $8) The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire$2 (Reg. $4) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50) Circle Jump - [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Friday’s best Google Play app and game deals are ready, including Hyper Light Drifter – S.E., Summer Catchers, Dragon Ruins, The Quest, White Room, Chameleon Run, and more. We also have Galaxy S26/Ultra models up to $500+ off, Galaxy Z Fold 8 up to $628 off, and Day Pixel 11 deals up to nearly $400 off. Scope out the apps below. Galaxy S26/Ultra models are up to $500+ off at Amazon today, deals from $560 Massive deals hit Galaxy Z Fold 8 today: Best Buy open-box units now up to $628 off Prime Day Pixel 11 deals still live, but these Best Buy open-box listings are up to nearly $400 off Today’s highlight Google Play deals: Chameleon Run$1 (Reg. $2) Blackthorn CastleFREE (Reg. $3) Dragon Ruins$1 (Reg. $7) Hero Z TPS$2.50 (Reg. $4) Hyper Light Drifter – S.E.$1.75 (Reg. $5.50) Summer Catchers$1 (Reg. $4) QuickPin – Fast Notes ReminderFREE (Reg. $1) 1944 Burning Bridges Premium$1 (Reg. $3) Knots Live WallpaperFREE (Reg. $5.50) Twilight Pro Unlock$5 (Reg. $10) White RoomFREE (Reg. $0.50) Circle Jump$0 (Reg. $8) The Quest$4 (Reg. $8) The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire$2 (Reg. $4) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ] (Reg. ) The Quest - (Reg. ) The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire - (Reg. ) These offers not only cater to gamers looking for new adventures but also to those in the market for cutting-edge technology. With such compelling deals available, consumers are encouraged to explore these options while they last." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50) - Circle Jump - [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a vibrant display of savings, Friday brings an array of enticing deals on Google Play apps and games, alongside significant discounts on popular smartphone models. Among the highlights are titles such as Hyper Light Drifter – S.E., Summer Catchers, and Dragon Ruins, each offering a unique gaming experience at reduced prices. The tech-savvy consumer will also find noteworthy discounts on the latest Galaxy models, with the Galaxy S26/Ultra available for over 0 off and the Galaxy Z Fold 8 slashed by up to 8. Additionally, Prime Day deals on the Pixel 11 continue to impress, with savings nearing 0. Today’s highlight Google Play deals: Chameleon Run - (Reg. ) Blackthorn Castle - FREE (Reg. ) Dragon Ruins - (Reg. ) Hero Z TPS - .50 (Reg. ) Hyper Light Drifter – S.E. - .75 (Reg. .50) Summer Catchers - (Reg. ) QuickPin – Fast Notes Reminder - FREE (Reg. ) 1944 Burning Bridges Premium - (Reg. ) Knots Live Wallpaper - FREE (Reg. .50) Twilight Pro Unlock - (Reg. ) White Room - FREE (Reg. [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Friday’s best Google Play app and game deals are ready, including Hyper Light Drifter – S.E., Summer Catchers, Dragon Ruins, The Quest, White Room, Chameleon Run, and more. We also have Galaxy S26/Ultra models up to $500+ off, Galaxy Z Fold 8 up to $628 off, and Day Pixel 11 deals up to nearly $400 off. Scope out the apps below. Galaxy S26/Ultra models are up to $500+ off at Amazon today, deals from $560 Massive deals hit Galaxy Z Fold 8 today: Best Buy open-box units now up to $628 off Prime Day Pixel 11 deals still live, but these Best Buy open-box listings are up to nearly $400 off Today’s highlight Google Play deals: Chameleon Run$1 (Reg. $2) Blackthorn CastleFREE (Reg. $3) Dragon Ruins$1 (Reg. $7) Hero Z TPS$2.50 (Reg. $4) Hyper Light Drifter – S.E.$1.75 (Reg. $5.50) Summer Catchers$1 (Reg. $4) QuickPin – Fast Notes ReminderFREE (Reg. $1) 1944 Burning Bridges Premium$1 (Reg. $3) Knots Live WallpaperFREE (Reg. $5.50) Twilight Pro Unlock$5 (Reg. $10) White RoomFREE (Reg. $0.50) Circle Jump$0 (Reg. $8) The Quest$4 (Reg. $8) The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire$2 (Reg. $4) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50) Circle Jump - [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Reg. $1+/FREE+ Friday’s best Google Play app and game deals are ready, including Hyper Light Drifter – S.E., Summer Catchers, Dragon Ruins, The Quest, White Room, Chameleon Run, and more. We also have Galaxy S26/Ultra models up to $500+ off, Galaxy Z Fold 8 up to $628 off, and Day Pixel 11 deals up to nearly $400 off. Scope out the apps below. Galaxy S26/Ultra models are up to $500+ off at Amazon today, deals from $560 Massive deals hit Galaxy Z Fold 8 today: Best Buy open-box units now up to $628 off Prime Day Pixel 11 deals still live, but these Best Buy open-box listings are up to nearly $400 off Today’s highlight Google Play deals: Chameleon Run$1 (Reg. $2) Blackthorn CastleFREE (Reg. $3) Dragon Ruins$1 (Reg. $7) Hero Z TPS$2.50 (Reg. $4) Hyper Light Drifter – S.E.$1.75 (Reg. $5.50) Summer Catchers$1 (Reg. $4) QuickPin – Fast Notes ReminderFREE (Reg. $1) 1944 Burning Bridges Premium$1 (Reg. $3) Knots Live WallpaperFREE (Reg. $5.50) Twilight Pro Unlock$5 (Reg. $10) White RoomFREE (Reg. $0.50) Circle Jump$0 (Reg. $8) The Quest$4 (Reg. $8) The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire$2 (Reg. $4) FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.You’re reading 9to5Toys — experts digging up all the latest technology and lifestyle deals, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Toys on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out the best Apple deals, our daily podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube channel" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ] (Reg. ) The Quest - (Reg. ) The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire - (Reg. ) These offers not only cater to gamers looking for new adventures but also to those in the market for cutting-edge technology. With such compelling deals available, consumers are encouraged to explore these options while they last." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] (Reg. ) - The Quest - (Reg. ) - The Quest-Isles of Ice & Fire - (Reg. ) Additionally, smartphone discounts include: - Galaxy S26/Ultra models up to 0+ off - Galaxy Z Fold 8 up to 8 off - Pixel 11 deals up to nearly 0 off

BetaBeacon

October 9, 2026

Citra Emulator: A Simple Guide to Playing Nintendo 3DS Games on PC and Android

Citra is an open-source program designed to run compatible Nintendo 3DS games on other devices by recreating parts of the original console's behavior.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Thousands of cheap Android phones shipped with ad-fraud malware

Researchers from Bitdefender have discovered that thousands of inexpensive Android devices are preloaded with malware called "Midnight Mimosa," which generates fraudulent advertising revenue. This malware is embedded in the device firmware before the first power-up, making it impossible for users to uninstall. It operates with system-level privileges, allowing it to install or remove applications without user consent and to download additional code. The malware primarily aims for financial gain through advertising and click fraud, while also gathering information about devices. Bitdefender has detected this malware on thousands of devices across over 150 countries, with the highest concentrations in Mexico, France, and Italy, followed by the United States, Germany, Brazil, and Spain. Many affected devices are low-cost, white-label, or counterfeit models, often sold online. The malware stealthily installs legitimate-looking applications that display ads in invisible windows, generating ad impressions without user awareness. Bitdefender identified at least 32 disguised applications and found 13 apps in the Google Play Store with similar ad-fraud code. The source of the malware remains unidentified, but some affected firmware was signed with certificates from Shenzhen Zediel, a Chinese company. The researchers suggest that the malware could have been introduced at various stages of the supply chain, potentially by manufacturers or intermediaries.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Amazon is gradually phasing out the Fire Tablet after 15 years: Why the return to Android?

Amazon has announced that it will cease the development of new Fire Tablets and will focus on the Alexa Tablet line, which runs on Android and supports the full Google Play store. The Fire Tablet line, which began with the original Kindle Fire in 2011, will no longer produce new generations, although existing devices will continue to receive security updates. The new Alexa Tablet series includes three models: the Alexa Tablet 8, Alexa Tablet 11, and Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, with prices starting at .99. The Alexa Tablets offer access to popular applications and features that cater to reading enthusiasts, as well as integration with Amazon's Alexa AI assistant. Additionally, Amazon is launching the Alexa Kids Tablet, which includes Google Play and parental controls. The transition reflects Amazon's strategy to enhance its tablet offerings and improve the overall user experience.