beta versions Archives

AppWizard

April 9, 2025

Get HyperOS 2 Android 16 Beta 2 apps today on any Xiaomi device

Xiaomi has released system apps from the HyperOS 2 Beta 16 Android build, allowing users to enhance their devices without flashing the entire beta ROM. The updated applications include: Productivity Apps: - Note (v1.2.6.8) - Premium note-taking features. - Calculator (v15.3.4) - Smarter calculation functions. - Calendar (v16.0.20.10) - Improved scheduling and reminders. - File Explorer (v7.0.4.7) - Efficient file management. Media & Entertainment: - Browser (v19.1.90312) - Enhanced web surfing speed and protection. - Media Editor (v1.8.10.16) - Advanced photo and video editing capabilities. - Gallery (v25100112) - AI photo organization. - Screen Recorder (v2.14.2.4.1) - Smooth screen recording. System Utilities: - Theme Store (v18.0) - Access to new themes for HyperOS 2. - System Updater (v8.8.9) - Improved update process. - Weather (v16.0.5.8) - More accurate forecasting. - Mirror (v17.00.01) - Low-latency screen casting. - Sound Recorder (v6.2.5) - High-quality recordings with noise reduction. - Mi Share (v3.7.1) - Quicker file sharing between devices. - Quick Search (v10.12.1.03137) - Enhanced search functionality. - Always-on Display (RELEASE-2228.3.0.0) - New designs for the feature. - Security Center (v10.7.3-250325.0.1) - Strengthened device protection. - Mi Wallpaper (v4.4.4.1-ALPHA) - Dynamic wallpapers. - MIUI Home Launcher (RELEASE-5.39.31.10941) - Refined home screen experience. - Package Installer (v5.3.3.0.0) - Safer app installation process. To install these apps, users must download the APKs, enable "Install from Unknown Sources," install each APK individually, and restart the device. Each application has been optimized for performance with reasonable file sizes.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

Microsoft changes the blue screen of death in Windows 11: why?

Microsoft has changed the blue screen of death to a green screen in its operating system, aligning it with the aesthetics of Windows 11. The new error screen features a simple message stating, “Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart,” along with a progress percentage and minimal technical details. Reports suggest that Microsoft may eventually switch the error screen color to black for future public releases. Additionally, the sad emoji and QR code previously found on the error screen have been removed.

BetaBeacon

April 3, 2025

Android Auto now lets you play games on your car’s display with this requirement

Google announced that users can now play select Android games on their car's display through Android Auto. The key requirement for playing games on the car display is having a mobile device running on Android 15 or higher. Games can only be accessed when the vehicle is fully parked, and only a limited number of Android games are currently supported for this feature.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

How to change to a vertical scrolling app drawer on One UI 7

Samsung has introduced a vertical scrolling app drawer in One UI 7, responding to user demand. This update is available for the Galaxy S25 series and for users who upgrade to One UI 7. The rollout for older devices has faced delays, with beta versions currently available for Galaxy S24 owners and a final build expected in early April. New features in One UI 7 include the Now Bar, which provides real-time updates, and Now Brief, offering personalized briefings. Other features include cross-app action, audio eraser, auto trim, and AI drawing assist. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a larger display, improved ultrawide camera, and lighter design compared to its predecessor.

AppWizard

March 19, 2025

Annoying Google Play bug complains about a missing update that doesn’t even exist

Some Android users are experiencing a persistent error notification indicating that certain Google applications, such as Messages and the Google app, require an update, despite no updates being available in the Play Store. This issue affects both stable and beta versions of Google Play Services across various devices. Reports include a Pixel 9 Pro and another device running different versions of Google Play Services, indicating the bug is widespread. The affected applications continue to function normally, and updating to Google app version 16.19.36 may resolve the notification issue, though the effectiveness of a newer version of Google Messages is unconfirmed. Inquiries have been made to Google for clarification.

Winsage

March 14, 2025

Microsoft slowly kills off the Control Panel as another feature moves to Settings

Microsoft is phasing out the Control Panel, migrating mouse properties options to the Settings application. This transition was revealed by user @PhantomOfEarth and aligns with Microsoft's announcement from August 2024 regarding the Control Panel's gradual phase-out. The move aims to consolidate settings within the more modern Settings interface, enhancing usability and accessibility for users.

AppWizard

March 13, 2025

Android 16 Beta 3 achieves ‘Platform Stability,’ brings extended Auracast support

Google has released Android 16 Beta 3, featuring new accessibility tools including Text Outline for low-vision users and Local Network Protection for enhanced app access control. The beta also expands Auracast compatibility, allowing audio broadcasting from a single source to multiple receivers, particularly benefiting hearing aid users in noisy environments. Only LE audio-compatible hearing aids from manufacturers like GN Hearing and Starkey will be supported. Samsung Galaxy devices with One UI 7 and Pixel 9 devices can connect to public audio streams. A QR code standard has been developed for easier access to broadcasts, with Pixel 9 users receiving priority access. Android 16 is expected to be publicly released in late June.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Steam users react ecstatically to update that lets them access their heaving game notes via the web, also it fixes Monster Hunter Wilds video recording

Valve has updated the Steam client to enhance the Game Notes feature, allowing users to access their notes via the web without needing to be part of the Steam beta. Notes created in both beta and non-beta versions are now visible in a new Notes section. The community response has been positive, with users expressing excitement on the r/Steam subreddit. However, there are suggestions for improvement, as the current interface is minimalistic and lacks options to create new notes directly from the web. Additionally, the update addresses issues related to game recording and video streaming in Monster Hunter Wilds, adds support for the 8BitDo Micro gamepad, and improves notification displays for in-progress achievements.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Nintendo’s GameCube Gets a Productivity Makeover Thanks to a PowerPC Windows NT Port

Rairii has successfully ported Windows NT 3.51 to the Nintendo GameCube, allowing the console to run this operating system. The project supports Windows NT 3.51 RTM and higher, while earlier beta versions require kernel patches. Windows NT 3.5 is incompatible due to its support for the PowerPC 601 architecture. The GameCube, powered by an IBM PowerPC "Gekko" chip, can now function as a desktop computer with a graphical user interface, controlled via a standard controller or keyboard. The project includes support for the GameCube's keyboard controller accessory and a mapping system for navigation. Some USB device support is available, but without hotplugging functionality. Instructions for the project are provided in a GitHub repository, and users need specific hardware to participate.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Minecraft now has new cow variants, shrubbery fireflies, and “bush” for public testing

Mojang has introduced a new content update for Minecraft, currently in public testing, featuring two cow variants: cold cows, which inhabit snowy biomes, and warm cows, found in desert landscapes. The update enhances desert biomes with new ambient sounds and allows players to create a desert atmosphere using dead bushes and sand blocks. Additionally, a new plant called the firefly bush emits glowing lights at night and can be cultivated with bone meal. Another bush variant can be found in various green biomes and can also be grown using bone meal. These features are available in the latest Java snapshot, with plans for inclusion in Bedrock beta versions. Mojang has shifted its content release strategy to smaller updates throughout the year instead of a single summer mega-update.