beta version Archives

AppWizard

April 29, 2025

Gemini preps a ‘Saved info’ rebrand as work on chat history search continues (APK teardown)

- The Gemini name is being phased out from headers, indicating a potential rebranding effort. - The "Saved info" feature may be renamed to "Memory" to enhance its functionality in remembering user preferences. - Improvements are being made for accessing and viewing chat history to enhance user interaction and navigation. - The latest beta version, 16.16.39.sa.arm64, reveals upcoming features, although they are not yet visible to the public. - The removal of the Gemini label from model headers is a prominent change, accompanied by a new blue background effect and a reorganization of model names and descriptions. - A search tool for chat history is being introduced, with various layouts being tested, including one that prioritizes Gems at the top. - Enhancements to the compose box are planned, potentially offering suggestions for research topics and Canvas projects.

BetaBeacon

April 27, 2025

What is Steam: The popular gaming platform explained

Steam is a platform and app for distributing video games online that also has social media features and community message boards.

AppWizard

April 23, 2025

Google Messages update finally adds an important safety tool – and teases a feature I’m surprised the app doesn’t have already

Google Messages is introducing two new features: live location sharing and Sensitive Content Warnings. The live location sharing feature allows users to share their real-time whereabouts, improving coordination for meet-ups. Sensitive Content Warnings aim to protect users, especially minors, from harmful content by notifying them when nude images are sent or received. This feature is automatically enabled for users under 18 and can be managed through the Family Link app for supervised accounts. Users can adjust settings in Google Messages to manage these warnings, which utilize on-device AI to ensure privacy.

AppWizard

April 22, 2025

Google Messages now finally shields you from surprise nudes

Google Messages is introducing smart alerts that automatically blur explicit images before they are viewed by the recipient. This feature is opt-in for adults, while it is enabled by default for teens. Users will receive warnings about potentially explicit images and can choose to view the image, block the sender, or check the reason for the flag. If users send a sensitive image, the app will prompt them with a caution. All processing occurs on the user's device to protect privacy, and the feature currently applies only to still images, not videos.

AppWizard

April 13, 2025

Apple Maps web app is now available on all devices, including Android

Apple has expanded access to its Maps application by introducing a web version that can be accessed from various mobile devices, including Android. The web app, which is no longer in beta, functions more like a standard website and lacks several features found in Google Maps, such as user logins, transit maps, and 3D building visuals. Users can access Apple Maps via "maps.apple.com," which includes basic search and navigation functionalities, as well as the Look Around feature. The web app can also be added to a mobile device's home screen for easier access.

Winsage

April 11, 2025

How to Try Copilot’s New ‘Vision’ and File Search Updates

Microsoft has introduced enhancements to its Copilot application, including Copilot Vision and an advanced file search capability, now rolling out to Windows Insiders. Copilot Vision allows the AI to "see" what is displayed on the user's screen, enabling users to ask questions about their browsing, documents, or music without needing screenshots. Microsoft assures users that they maintain control over accessible information, with data deleted after each session. The updated file search feature allows the AI to locate, open, and discuss files stored locally, enabling natural language queries for file retrieval. Users can manage permissions for Copilot through application settings. These features will eventually be available to all Windows users, and those interested can join the Windows Insider Program for early access. To use the new features, users need version 1.25034.133.0 or later from the Microsoft Store. Copilot Vision can be activated by clicking the glasses icon in the app, while file search is integrated for easy queries.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

ReactOS, an Open Source Take on Windows

ReactOS is an open-source operating system designed to be compatible with Windows, aiming to recreate the Windows experience while ensuring compatibility with existing software applications. The first stable release occurred in 2011, followed by a beta version in 2013 that improved support for 64-bit systems. By 2020, ReactOS reached a Technical Alpha milestone, indicating progress in stability and performance. The latest version resembles the outdated Windows XP interface, which may appeal to some users but lacks modern functionality. The ReactOS Application Manager allows users to install applications, but many popular software versions are outdated or incompatible. Users are advised to use the Application Manager for installations, as external downloads can lead to issues. ReactOS appeals to Windows users reluctant to switch to Linux or invest in new hardware, but it remains a work in progress with bugs and limited application support. The project invites contributions to enhance the user interface and application compatibility.

BetaBeacon

March 28, 2025

Android Auto’s latest beta brings full Android game support

Google has added gaming support to the beta version of Android Auto 14.1, allowing users to play select Android games on their car's touchscreen while parked. Currently, only four games are supported, including Candy Crush, Angry Birds, Farm Heroes Saga, and Beach Buggy Racing. The games must be installed on the user's phone beforehand and can only be accessed when the car is stationary for safety reasons. This update also introduces fullscreen apps to Android Auto, bringing it closer to the software experience in cars with Google built-in. The feature was announced earlier this month as part of Google's March feature drop, but the official release date out of beta has not been specified.

BetaBeacon

March 28, 2025

Ever wanted to play games on your Android Auto screen? There’s good news.

The latest beta version of Android Auto now supports a few games, including Angry Birds 2, Beach Buggy Racing, and Candy Crush Soda Saga.

AppWizard

March 24, 2025

Minecraft to Get Vibrant Visuals Graphics Update Soon

Mojang announced the 'Vibrant Visuals' update for the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft, which will enhance the game's graphics with features like volumetric lighting, improved reflections, and subsurface scattering for foliage. The update will also add detail to mobs and items, such as glowing spider eyes and illuminating torches. It is purely cosmetic, leaving gameplay mechanics unchanged and ensuring compatibility for players in the same realm. The update will be tested on various devices, with a beta version to be released soon, and plans to extend it to the Java Edition are in place. The Minecraft With RTX experience offers the highest visual fidelity for players with powerful PCs.