Beta Archives

AppWizard

September 17, 2026

World of Warcraft: Forever players are reliving 2004 with hour-long queue times to get into the highly-anticipated beta

Blizzard has launched the beta for WoW: Forever, a modernized version of WoW Classic. Initial queue times were around nine minutes, but many players experienced disconnections and longer waits. Blizzard acknowledged the issues on X, assuring players that they are working to resolve them. WoW: Forever features a new server structure where players choose a ruleset and join a unified server, which may be contributing to the queue challenges. Dataminers have discovered new class talent trees and armor sets in the game’s files. The beta will be available until October 21, ahead of the official launch on November 4.

AppWizard

September 17, 2026

Google Pixel: Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 Released

On September 15, 2026, Google released the beta OS update "Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5" for Google Pixel devices in the Android Beta Program. This update includes support for new Pixel devices: "Pixel 11," "Pixel 11 Pro," "Pixel 11 Pro XL," and "Pixel 11 Pro Fold," while excluding "Pixel 6" and "Pixel 6 Pro." The update is distributed via Over-the-Air (OTA) to 23 models, including "Pixel 6a," "Pixel 7," and "Pixel 8 Pro." Key features include "Call Forwarding Hardening," which restricts access to call-forwarding USSD codes to enhance security against scams. The update also includes eight bug fixes, addressing issues with Bluetooth device type display, unexpected reboots, volume slider UI, text rendering, Private Space unlocking, HDR mode, Camera app crashes, and Bluetooth audio distortion. The build number changes to "CP41.260828.004.A8" or "CP41.260828.005.A6," with the Android security patch level updated to "August 5, 2026," and "Google Play services" upgraded to version 26.28.33 or later.

BetaBeacon

September 17, 2026

Rastar Games to Conduct CBT for ‘Three Kingdoms: Conquest of Nine Kingdoms’ on Android Devices Starting Sept. 22

Rastar Games is launching a pre-registration campaign for their upcoming strategy game Three Kingdoms: Conquest of Nine Kingdoms. The game will have a closed beta test for Android users on September 22, featuring dynamic combat and strategic elements. The game's monetization strategy focuses on player skill rather than pay-to-win mechanics. Players who pre-register on iOS can unlock special rewards and have the chance to win prizes through physical giveaway events.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

Google rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 for Pixel

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 has been released for Pixel devices, addressing several critical issues. Key fixes include: - Resolved visual inconsistencies with Bluetooth device icons (Issue #516071134). - Fixed a system stability issue causing unexpected reboots during UI scrolling in media-heavy apps (Issue #544291113). - Hardware volume buttons now allow the system volume slider UI to display while casting media (Issue #548145018). - Corrected text-rendering issues causing unexpected background highlights in search fields and a navigation routing problem in Private Space (Issue #548285596). - Fixed persistent activation of enhanced HDR mode despite being turned off in settings (Issue #547457910). - Google Wallet can now be launched via the power button shortcut without causing touchscreen unresponsiveness (Issue #549758084). - Resolved camera crashes during panorama processing (Issue #551069625). - Addressed Bluetooth audio distortion and noise after calls (Issue #541684282). The build CP41.260828.005.A6 is available for Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold, while CP41.260828.004.A8 is for other devices. System images for Beta 5 are available for various Pixel devices and the Android Emulator. Users can join the Android Beta Program for OTA updates.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

Here’s everything new in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 [Gallery]

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 has begun its rollout, with a stable release expected in December. The update includes new features and enhancements, with a detailed guide available for installation on compatible devices such as Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Tablet. Changes in Quick Settings include the introduction of a new Audio Streams Tile and the removal of layout customization. The Voice broadcast Tile has been moved under Connectivity. Fixes in this update include: - Resolved an issue with Bluetooth device icon updates. - Addressed a system stability problem causing unexpected reboots during UI scrolling in media-heavy apps. - Fixed a bug preventing the system volume slider from appearing when using hardware volume buttons while casting media. - Corrected a text-rendering issue causing unexpected background highlights in search fields and a navigation routing problem with Private Space. - Enhanced HDR mode remained enabled despite user settings. - Resolved touchscreen unresponsiveness when launching Google Wallet via the power button shortcut. - Fixed camera crashes during panorama processing. - Addressed Bluetooth audio issues with noise and distortion after calls.

AppWizard

September 15, 2026

Google rolling out Android 17 QPR1 for Pixel

Android 17 QPR1 is rolling out for Google Pixel devices, coinciding with the September 2026 Feature Drop and security patch. Key updates include enhanced blur effects in the system UI, a redesigned system media player with a Material 3 carousel interface, updated Quick Settings with new animations and features, and improved app management options. The rollout includes Pixel 6, 7, and 8 series devices. Users can check for the update in Settings > System > System update. The Android Beta Program will continue for future testing, and users on the beta must opt out to receive the stable version without wiping their devices.

AppWizard

September 15, 2026

XChat, X’s messaging app is unavailable on the Apple Store and Android’s Play Store

XChat was launched in April 2026 as a dedicated app for private conversations, featuring end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, direct messaging, group chats, audio and video calls, file sharing, and PIN protection. It was designed to be ad-free and included features like message editing and notifications for screenshots. After its public launch, XChat's future became uncertain when it was abruptly removed from the digital landscape, with no explanation from X regarding the reasons for its withdrawal or its potential return.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Not Google Maps, Not Waze: Here Are 5 Navigation App Alternatives For Android Auto

Users are exploring alternatives to Google Maps for navigation solutions, focusing on data privacy and unique features. Several apps have emerged, particularly for Android Auto users, based on feedback from the Google Play Store and evaluations. TomTom offers a free navigation app compatible with Android Auto, featuring turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic updates, offline maps, and a focus on privacy. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5. Sygic GPS Navigation includes turn-by-turn navigation, offline navigation, and live traffic alerts, but its full functionality requires a Premium+ subscription. It has a rating of 4.1 out of 5. OsmAnd provides extensive mapping capabilities with downloadable maps and turn-by-turn voice navigation, but Android Auto support requires a paid subscription. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5. Calimoto is designed for motorcycle riders, offering scenic route navigation and offline maps, with a premium subscription needed for full features. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5. MapQuest supports Android Auto and offers maps and navigation for the U.S. and Canada, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5, although it is still in beta and may have performance issues. The selection of these apps was based on their compatibility with Android Auto, user ratings of at least four out of five stars, and a combination of qualitative and quantitative data from user feedback.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

This keyboard app brings Pixel 11’s best feature to all Android phones

SwiftKey is introducing a new AI-driven voice typing feature in its beta version, inspired by Google's Rambler feature. This tool cleans up and formats speech but does not provide live transcription. The AI model is about 163MB and allows offline functionality on Android devices. Unlike Google's Rambler, which is exclusive to Pixel devices, SwiftKey's feature is available on a wider range of Android smartphones. Testing on a Galaxy Z Fold 8 showed efficient offline processing and transcription. However, it lacks features like tone adjustments, advanced text formatting, and emoji insertion through voice commands. The SwiftKey Beta app can be installed on any Android device and is available for download on the Google Play Store.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Google opens Android beta testing for Google Drive

Google has launched a public beta program for its Google Drive app on Android, allowing users to explore pre-release versions of the application through the Google Play Store. This is the first time Google has offered beta testing for the Google Drive app on Android, enabling users to access early features and provide feedback to influence the final product.