A new app called Messages by OzarksMade aims to emulate the look and feel of Samsung Messages and include RCS support via integration with Google Messages.
Google is updating Android XR for Galaxy XR users, introducing features such as the ability to pin apps to virtual walls, which allows for practical applications like keeping a calendar app next to an office desk. The headset will also automatically restore the previous session with all apps and layouts. Users can see their hands through passthrough cameras while interacting with virtual content, enhancing the sense of presence. An auto-spatialization feature transforms apps, games, websites, images, and videos into 3D experiences. There are now over 100 apps designed for XR, including Real VR Fishing, Trombone Champ: Unflattened!, and the PSG Immersion app for live game experiences. The update also includes enhancements in hand tracking, eye tracking, and accessibility.
Google has introduced early-stage developer capabilities for Android aimed at connecting applications with intelligent agents and personalized assistants, specifically Google Gemini, while prioritizing privacy and security. A key feature of this initiative is AppFunctions, introduced with Android 16, which allows applications to expose specific capabilities for access by agent apps, enabling seamless task execution on devices. Developers can define app functionalities for AI assistants, facilitating various use cases such as task management, media creation, cross-app workflows, and calendar scheduling. A practical example includes the Samsung Gallery app, where users can request specific photos through Gemini, which triggers the appropriate function to retrieve them. Additionally, Google is advancing a UI automation framework for AI agents, allowing for the execution of generic tasks across applications with minimal coding. Future expansions of these capabilities are planned for Android 17, with ongoing collaboration with select app developers to enhance user experiences.
Many individuals set resolutions to enhance their lives at the start of the new year, and various innovative apps have emerged for habit tracking.
HabitKit is a simple habit-tracking app that allows users to input habits and goals, represented in a contribution graph. Users can customize their experience by adding habits with titles, colors, and symbols, setting streak goals, receiving reminders, and categorizing habits. The app features robust analytics for tracking long-term progress and offers widgets for home screen display.
Finch is a digital companion that encourages daily check-ins and emphasizes self-care and mental well-being. It suggests habits like staying hydrated and practicing mindfulness, while also incorporating gamification elements for user engagement.
A traditional method for habit tracking involves using a calendar app, such as Google Calendar, integrated with Google Tasks. This allows users to create dedicated lists for habits, although it lacks built-in analytics and may require more discipline to maintain consistency.
Finding the right habit tracking app is essential for personal growth and goal achievement, and committing to a single platform can yield surprising results over time.
Google Calendar is a free tool that integrates with other Google services like Gmail, Drive, and Tasks, and recently added integration with Gemini for creating calendar entries. However, it lacks visual appeal, does not support natural language processing for date and time input, and raises data privacy concerns among users.
Proton Calendar offers end-to-end encryption for privacy, a simple design with purple accents, and limited third-party integrations, with a free version allowing three calendars and a subscription for more features.
Notion Calendar integrates with existing Notion databases, supports shared calendars and scheduling links, and offers pop-up notifications, but is most beneficial for Notion users.
Any.do combines task management with calendar functionality, integrates with major calendar providers, and has a user-friendly design, though some features require a premium plan.
Business Calendar 2 features a professional design, includes a dedicated Birthday view, integrates a Tasks section, and offers a customizable floating action button, with a free version and a premium subscription for additional features.
One Calendar supports various calendar services, has a unique task management system requiring a separate app, and allows for custom themes, with both free and premium versions available.
New sharing options have been introduced in the Google Calendar app, allowing users to share individual calendars and manage subscriptions directly from mobile devices. The update, version 2025.38.0-809757839-release, enables users to share calendars and unsubscribe from shared calendars without needing the desktop interface. Users can access these settings through the Settings section of the app, where they can manage sharing options for their calendars. The update is now widely available for download from the Play Store.
Microsoft is encouraging users to adopt the new Outlook app, which has been the default email and calendar solution for Windows 11 since its launch. Users face challenges with the new Outlook, including advertisements unless they pay for a subscription and the absence of several features from the previous Mail & Calendar app. Many users still prefer the classic Mail & Calendar app and express a desire for its return. The new Outlook is categorized as a Progressive Web App (PWA), raising questions about its classification as a native application. Critics have pointed out issues with the app's performance, design, and feature set, with some stating it does not meet user expectations. Microsoft has disabled the Mail & Calendar app on Windows 10 to compel users to transition to the new Outlook.
The text discusses the increasing demand for efficient calendar apps and highlights alternatives to Google Calendar that offer enhanced features and improved user interfaces.
1. Business Calendar 2: This app features a unique weekly layout, allows users to adjust the number of days displayed, integrates with Google Calendars, includes built-in task management, and offers natural language input for event creation. It is free with limited ads.
2. DigiCal: This app has a familiar layout, integrates local weather information, offers a Month view that displays both monthly events and a daily agenda, and provides 31 color options for event categorization. It is free with a premium version available.
3. Proton Calendar: This app prioritizes security and privacy with full encryption, ensuring that user data is inaccessible even to developers. It offers basic functionalities, various viewing options, and the ability to import two Google Calendars. Users must create a Proton Account to use the app.
