The Chrome browser is considered the center of all activities on Chromebooks, even though ChromeOS has evolved beyond just being a browser. The lack of a desktop-class version of Chrome for Android hinders the usability of Android Desktop and DeX for productivity. Google is expected to release a desktop-class version of Chrome for Android in 2026, which could potentially make phones powerful desktop replacements.
A new Android-based Trojan named Frogblight is targeting mobile users in Turkiye to steal funds from bank accounts. Identified by Kaspersky's Securelist in August 2025, it spreads through smishing, where scammers send deceptive SMS messages about legal court cases or financial aid. These messages often include links to download malicious applications disguised as legitimate support tools. The malware, which can conceal itself and deactivate on simulated devices or within the U.S., requests extensive permissions to access SMS messages and device storage. Once installed, it opens a legitimate government website to appear credible and injects JavaScript to record keystrokes during banking logins. Recent versions have added keylogging, contact list theft, and private call log collection. The malware has evolved to disguise itself as the Google Chrome browser and other tools, and its source code is available on GitHub, indicating it may be marketed as malware-as-a-service. Kaspersky advises users to avoid downloading APK files from untrusted sources and to scrutinize app permission requests.
HappyMod is a nonofficial Android application that allows users to download unique modded applications, also known as APK games, which offer benefits such as unlocking premium features, obtaining in-game currencies, and removing ads. HappyMod offers a wide selection of modified applications in various categories, making it a flexible platform for users with different interests. The process of using HappyMod involves installation, user navigation, searching for modded apps, downloading the APK, configuring the device for installation, and using the modified functionalities. HappyMod is popular among Android users for providing access to premium features for free, offering free mods for purchase-required games, and giving users greater control over their apps. In terms of safety, users should download HappyMod from trusted sources, install antivirus software, read user reviews, and avoid downloading mods from unknown third-party sites to prevent risks such as account bans, malware, and copyright violations.
Google and Epic Games have reached a settlement in their antitrust dispute regarding app distribution and monetization on Google's Android platform. The specific terms of the agreement are undisclosed, but it aligns with Google's compliance with court-mandated changes to foster competition in its Play Store. The U.S. Supreme Court recently denied Google's request for a temporary hold on a ruling requiring modifications to the Play Store, which followed a jury's decision in favor of Epic Games. The settlement retains much of the judge's original directives, introducing commission caps of 9% or 20% on purchases made outside the Play Store and replacing the requirement for app catalog access with provisions for "registered app stores." Both companies have stated that the settlement will advance the evolution of the Android platform. Additionally, Google has updated its Chrome browser to allow users to input identification details, enhancing its autofill capabilities.
Chromebooks are a cost-effective alternative to traditional laptops, appealing to students and young professionals due to their built-in productivity tools and user-friendly interface. They feature sandboxing technology that enhances resilience against malware, making them suitable for users learning about digital security. Chromebooks do not natively support traditional antivirus software, but users can access Android-based antivirus applications via the Google Play Store. While vulnerabilities in Chromebooks account for less than 1% of reported issues, users should remain vigilant against threats like fake browser extensions, scam Android apps, phishing attempts, and insecure websites. Key security features of Chromebooks include automatic updates, sandboxing, verified boot, data encryption, and recovery options. Misconceptions persist about their security, such as the belief that all apps in Google Play are thoroughly checked and that malware cannot self-install. If a Chromebook is suspected of being compromised, users can uninstall recent extensions, reboot the device, or use the Powerwash feature for a factory reset. Over 4% of U.S. desktop users utilize Chrome OS, and 30 million students and educators worldwide rely on Chromebooks. They are modeled closely on Linux OS and, while immune to traditional viruses, can still be susceptible to malware. Recommended antivirus options for Chromebooks include Norton, Bitdefender, and Avast. With proper care, Chromebooks typically last between five to eight years.
Google is introducing a new screen in the October Google Play services update for Android 16 that informs users about applications checking the system’s Advanced Protection status. This feature is part of the Advanced Protection mode, which enhances device security. The screen displays a list of applications that have queried the operating system to determine if Advanced Protection is enabled, allowing apps to adjust their security protocols accordingly. Initially, only Google’s own applications, such as Phone, Messages, and Chrome, accessed this status information. The feature is currently active on a single device in a beta release of Android 16, with plans for broader rollout in the future.
Google has introduced a "Summarize page" feature in Chrome for Android that provides instant AI-generated summaries of web pages. This feature is located within the Gemini overlay and allows users to access quick recaps without switching applications. The option appears above the Gemini input bar, and upon tapping it, users see a summary in a floating window, which can be expanded for more details and allows for follow-up questions. It is compatible with various browsing contexts and is available on both stable and beta versions of Chrome for Android. The summarization capability is powered by Gemini 2.5 Flash and integrates directly into the Chrome browsing experience, eliminating the need for manual URL input. This feature aims to enhance the mobile browsing experience, similar to what desktop Chrome users in the U.S. have experienced.
Users of the Google app on Android devices are experiencing an issue where the address bar remains white, disrupting the dark mode experience. This problem is specific to the Google app, as other applications like Chrome and WebView maintain their dark aesthetics. Users have reported that the white address bar appears only when accessing links through the Google app and disappears when using Gmail or Chrome directly. Troubleshooting efforts, including clearing caches and uninstalling updates, have not resolved the issue. The problem is linked to the embedded browser experience within the Google app, and suggestions to enable dark mode through Chrome settings do not affect the in-app browser. The current workaround is to manually open links in Chrome or another browser.
Last year, AI-powered devices like the Rabbit R1 generated excitement but ultimately failed due to high costs, redundancy, and limited utility. This led to a trend in agentic AI, with companies developing AI products that autonomously handle tasks. Google is advancing its Gemini project within the Chrome browser, although it currently has limited functionality. For broader automation across Android apps, Google’s Project Astra was showcased, demonstrating hands-free control of Android devices. However, it revealed performance issues that need improvement. Google is also developing a Computer Control framework to automate Android applications through trusted client apps, requiring specific permissions for security. The framework aims to enhance automation while addressing privacy concerns and resource management.
