Beta

AppWizard
October 7, 2026
Users of Android Auto have been experiencing an issue where the cellular signal icon disappears from their displays. Google has acknowledged the problem and is rolling out a fix. The stable version of Android Auto 17.8 has been released, which resolves the bug for many users. To fix the issue, users should ensure they have the latest version of Android Auto by checking the Google Play Store. If no update is available, they can verify their current version in the app settings. If running version 17.8 and the issue persists, users can clear the app's cache. If the update is not yet available, users may wait for the rollout or consider sideloading the update from a reputable source.
AppWizard
October 7, 2026
MapQuest has launched a beta version for Android Auto, aiming to compete with Google Maps and Apple Maps. The company has retained the historical name of Lake Ontario, leading to a significant increase in app usage, with over 1.5 million downloads and activity rising to 50 times its usual rate. Users can install MapQuest by downloading it from Google Play, joining the beta program, and connecting their smartphone to their vehicle. Initial feedback indicates some inconsistencies, such as app crashes and delayed responses, but the app offers features like turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic updates, route optimization, and voice search capability.
AppWizard
October 6, 2026
Apple has removed the decentralized messaging application Bitchat, developed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, from its App Store in India following a directive from the Indian federal government under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, citing national security. The notice from Apple's App Review team, shared by Dorsey on October 3, 2026, did not specify the illegal content. The app remains available in other regions, but users in India will lose access to TestFlight testing and public beta links. This action follows a previous request made on July 23, 2026, by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre to GitHub to disable access to three Bitchat repositories, invoking Section 79(3)(b) and Rule 3(1)(d). The Internet Freedom Foundation has contested the July order, claiming authorities bypassed established blocking frameworks. Bitchat, introduced as open-source software in July 2025, allows local Bluetooth mesh communication and internet messaging without relying on a central server, raising concerns for law enforcement. The timing of the restrictions coincided with youth-led protests in India, which led to a significant increase in Bitchat downloads, accounting for about 85% of the app's global downloads during a protest period from July 17-23. Despite the removal, existing installations can still communicate locally without needing app store access. Previously, in May 2023, India invoked Section 69A against other messaging applications, and China also mandated Bitchat's removal in April 2026 for similar reasons. Digital rights advocates argue the government's justification for the ban is concerning as it sets a precedent for restricting software based on technical capabilities.
Winsage
October 6, 2026
Microsoft is testing five new builds of Windows 11 as part of the Windows K2 initiative, which includes several updates: - Support for Unicode 17.0 has been added, allowing Windows to display over 4,800 new characters and scripts. - Performance improvements have been made to the Settings home page, reducing loading times. - The Settings > Apps > Installed apps section now shows version numbers for packaged apps. - A new entry point for Cloud Rebuild has been introduced under Settings > System > Recovery. - The Cloud rebuild feature can restore a Windows 11 PC to a clean state without USB media. - The Address Bar in File Explorer now supports the '~' character for quicker navigation. - Adjustments to the preview pane in File Explorer include a new button for HTML files and automatic previews for non-HTML files. - Folder view customizations in File Explorer are now consistently maintained. - The Windows Magnifier now allows input of exact zoom percentages and includes preset step increments. - Cloud rebuild options have been enhanced to include drive sanitization. - The Windows share window now allows users to pin favorite apps. - Messaging related to age-restricted parental controls in Family Safety has been improved. - Minor visual issues in the taskbar have been addressed. - Fixes have been implemented for certain USB Audio Class 1.0 devices. - Corrections have been made for Remote Desktop window sizing. - Issues causing lag for some Insiders after updates have been resolved.
AppWizard
October 6, 2026
The Pixel Search app has been updated to version 1.0.983036833, introducing a "Privacy & Permissions" section that allows users to manage data usage. This section includes toggles for "Help improve Pixel Search," "Call Logs," and "SMS," enabling users to control whether their call logs and SMS history are used for contact suggestions. Disabling these toggles does not prevent call history or messages from appearing in search results; users must revoke permissions in the app’s "App Permissions" page for complete removal. Additionally, the app's code hints at a future feature called "Gemini-powered suggestions," which aims to provide relevant information and actions to users. The updated app is available on the Play Store for the Pixel 11 series, and older Pixel devices can sideload it if running Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 or newer.
AppWizard
October 6, 2026
The Pixel Search app version 1.0.983036833 suggests compatibility with devices launched since 2021, specifically the Pixel 6 and newer models. This compatibility may allow older Pixels to access the app, depending on the stable release of Android 17 QPR2, expected in December 2026. However, the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro have reached their end-of-life status with the rollout of Android 17 QPR1 and are excluded from the beta program for Android 17 QPR2. Support for the Pixel Search app may ultimately be limited to the Pixel 6a and newer devices.
AppWizard
October 5, 2026
A new lock screen customization page has been discovered in the Wallpaper & Style app on Pixel devices, indicating potential enhancements for users. This page includes buttons for adjusting wallpapers, colors, clock display, widgets, and a new category called “media,” which may integrate media playback functionalities. The current customization options allow users to modify the lock screen and home screen aesthetics, including clock styles, shortcuts, and notifications. The rollout of the Android 17 QPR3 beta raises questions about whether this new interface will improve user experience compared to the existing customization menu. Features revealed through APK teardowns are not guaranteed to appear in the final public release.
AppWizard
October 5, 2026
Players can now save and quit during matches against AI opponents in Warhammer: Blood Bowl. The game introduces Rumble Mode, a seven-a-side version played on a smaller pitch with six turns per half and higher reroll costs. AI improvements include more strategic decision-making, though some questionable moves remain. The game incorporates third season rules, penalizing stalling and rewarding aggressive play with financial bonuses. The Secure the Ball action allows ball pickup on a roll of 2+, and updated passing rules eliminate Wildly Inaccurate results. MVP selection has been refined to reward nominated players only. New teams, Tomb Kings and Bretonnians, will be available in the beta, which launches on October 7 on Steam, with a full release expected by the end of the year.
Search