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A cleaner, unified Gemini interface could be coming to your Android phone
AppWizard
March 25, 2026

A cleaner, unified Gemini interface could be coming to your Android phone

Google is testing enhancements for the Gemini Android app to replicate the user-friendly interface of its web version, including a "Settings & help" menu. The latest beta release, version 17.11.54, features a user interface similar to the mobile web version, with planned additions like "Scheduled actions," "My stuff," and a new Notebooks section. Gemini will also show the last-used extension in the query header and may relocate the model switcher to the app header to declutter the input field. Updated icons for the feedback row are also being introduced.
Android 17 beta 2 brings a new multitasking trick and cross-device handoff
AppWizard
February 27, 2026

Android 17 beta 2 brings a new multitasking trick and cross-device handoff

Android 17 Beta 2 is now available for developers, introducing new features and bug fixes, including solutions for spontaneous reboots and interface freezes. Key features include the ability to create floating app bubbles, Cross-device app Handoff for seamless task continuation across devices, a new system-level contact picker for temporary read-only access to contacts, expanded SMS OTP protection, and enhanced local network privacy. The update also includes an EyeDropper API for color requests without needing screen capture permissions. Enrollment in the Android Beta Program is required for Pixel device users to access the update, which is rolling out via OTA, with options for sideloading or manual flashing. The stable release of Android 17 is expected in mid-2026.
Android 17 Beta 1 brings two small but useful Pixel Launcher UI changes
AppWizard
February 16, 2026

Android 17 Beta 1 brings two small but useful Pixel Launcher UI changes

Android 17 beta 1 was released on February 13, 2026, introducing several UI changes to the Pixel Launcher. The home screen search bar has a slimmer, customizable design, allowing users to replace the AI Mode shortcut with tools like Gemini Live or Translate. Users can now remove the At a Glance widget from the home screen. Additional minor enhancements include a refreshed brightness icon in Quick Settings and improved access to volume panel settings.
Android 17 improves the camera experience and apps for foldables and tablets
AppWizard
February 12, 2026

Android 17 improves the camera experience and apps for foldables and tablets

Google announced plans for the beta release of Android 17, which has been delayed without official clarification. Key features of Android 17 include a new policy for app orientation and size, requiring developers to support resizing and windowed multitasking. The update will also introduce professional-grade camera APIs, support for Versatile Video Coding (VVC), integration of VoIP calls into the built-in dialer, enhanced Wi-Fi ranging capabilities, and new profiles for Fitness Trackers and Medical Devices. Improvements for Android XR devices will enhance app responsiveness and display state changes. Additional beta versions will be released in the coming months, with developer stability expected by March 2026 and a stable release anticipated around June 2026, initially for Pixel devices. One UI 9, based on Android 17, is expected to debut with the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 in June 2026.
Android 16 now shows which apps sneak in your security settings
AppWizard
October 15, 2025

Android 16 now shows which apps sneak in your security settings

Google is introducing a new screen in the October Google Play services update for Android 16 that informs users about applications checking the system’s Advanced Protection status. This feature is part of the Advanced Protection mode, which enhances device security. The screen displays a list of applications that have queried the operating system to determine if Advanced Protection is enabled, allowing apps to adjust their security protocols accordingly. Initially, only Google’s own applications, such as Phone, Messages, and Chrome, accessed this status information. The feature is currently active on a single device in a beta release of Android 16, with plans for broader rollout in the future.
Link PC VR Games Are Now Launchable From Quest's Library In v81 PTC
AppWizard
September 25, 2025

Link PC VR Games Are Now Launchable From Quest’s Library In v81 PTC

The Horizon OS v81 PTC update allows users to launch Quest Link PC VR games directly from the Horizon OS library, eliminating the need for the outdated Rift Dash interface. Quest Link enables Meta's headsets to function as PC VR headsets via USB or Wi-Fi. The Public Test Channel (PTC) provides beta versions of upcoming updates, which may not all transition to stable releases. With the new update, PC VR Store applications are displayed as 'PCVR' in the Horizon OS library, and users can access the Horizon OS interface directly with the Meta button on the Touch controller. This update improves the user experience by streamlining the process of launching PC VR games, but it currently only applies to Meta's PC VR Store games, not those purchased on Steam.
Pixel users can customize their app icons with the latest Android 16 QPR2 Beta release
AppWizard
September 18, 2025

Pixel users can customize their app icons with the latest Android 16 QPR2 Beta release

Google has released the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2, which includes the September 5, 2025 security patch. Eligible devices for this update are Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and Pixel Tablet. The update introduces Themed icon shapes with five options: Circle, Square, Four-sided "cookie," Seven-sided "cookie," and Arch. The Display & touch settings have been redesigned, and Health Connect now automatically tracks steps. The update has achieved Platform Stability, allowing developers to test apps without unexpected changes. It has the build number BP41.250822.010. Starting September 2026, verified developer registration will be required for app installations on certified Android devices in select regions.
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