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Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 is rolling out: unexpected reboots and kernel crash fixes lead the way
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 is rolling out: unexpected reboots and kernel crash fixes lead the way

Google is rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6 to Pixel testers to fix various issues, including crashes and unexpected reboots. The update addresses a reboot issue with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold related to third-party apps when opening the camera viewfinder. It follows the release of QPR2 Beta 5 and achieves Platform Stability, with all devices aligned on build numbers. Notable fixes include resolving a system kernel crash during simultaneous access to the camera and microphone, a visual regression affecting content display, a blank screensaver issue while charging, problems with dismissing locked applications, and device crashes during scrolling. Google has also temporarily removed blurred notifications on the lock screen to address certain bugs.
If you can't tell what's real or AI-generated anymore, this Android app is here to help
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

If you can’t tell what’s real or AI-generated anymore, this Android app is here to help

Generative AI is becoming a crucial part of various services and applications, leading to a series that will highlight notable AI innovations. A challenge for users is distinguishing between authentic and AI-generated content, which has become increasingly difficult. The C2PA Verify app helps users identify image origins by reading C2PA credentials, although these credentials can be erased, limiting the app's effectiveness. C2PA Verify is open-source, free, and developed by Dark Rock Studios. Other noteworthy AI applications include: - Retirement Planner: A web app powered by Claude Opus 4.5 that assists users in financial planning for retirement by calculating future portfolio value, drawdown rates, and tax implications, tailored for US and Canadian citizens. - Memoria: An Android gallery app that uses offline AI for natural language search, ensuring user privacy by keeping data on the device. It utilizes Apple’s MobileCLIP-S0 model for processing queries and is open-source and free to use.
Call of Duty 'cosmetic toggle' will cleanse Warzone of its Party City aesthetic
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

Call of Duty ‘cosmetic toggle’ will cleanse Warzone of its Party City aesthetic

Warzone has introduced a "cosmetic toggle" that allows players to disable legacy character skins at a client level, specifically for Warzone, while Modern Warfare 4 will not carry over any cosmetics from previous titles. This feature aims to address concerns about mismatched crossover skins and create a more cohesive gaming experience. The toggle is a response to previous commitments to avoid old skins, although collaborations have complicated this effort. Its effectiveness may diminish with the introduction of new characters in future seasons, and its future depends on Infinity Ward's commitment to aesthetic integrity and potential expansions of the toggle.
Tim Cain: 'Among other things that Steve Jackson Games didn't like about Fallout was Vault Boy'
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

Tim Cain: ‘Among other things that Steve Jackson Games didn’t like about Fallout was Vault Boy’

The Fallout video game was initially developed with the intention of using the GURPS (Generic Universal Role-Play System) license from Steve Jackson Games. However, misunderstandings led to the dissolution of the licensing agreement, which Steve Jackson learned about from a press member rather than Interplay directly. Jackson's objections were primarily due to creative differences, particularly regarding the violent opening cutscene, character design, and the whimsical style of the mascot, Vault Boy. After extensive discussions, Jackson threatened legal action if Interplay continued with Fallout in its current form, prompting Interplay to abandon the GURPS license. This decision significantly impacted the future direction of the Fallout franchise.
Microsoft 365 Companion Apps Are Being Retired
Winsage
September 24, 2026

Microsoft 365 Companion Apps Are Being Retired

Microsoft will retire its Microsoft 365 companion apps for Windows 11, including the Calendar, People, and Files companion apps, by December 16, 2026. These apps were introduced at no additional cost to users with eligible Microsoft 365 or Office 365 licenses, with the Files and People apps debuting in March 2025 and the Calendar app in May 2025. Microsoft integrated its Copilot feature into these applications last October. Users are advised not to wait until the retirement date, as the apps will become non-functional prior to December 16. Administrators can remove these apps as needed, and Microsoft has provided a template for notifying users. Alternatives for functionality include Outlook, Teams, Windows Search Box, File Explorer, SharePoint, OneDrive, and Office applications.
Google Play Store looks like it's working on a special home for your vibe-coded apps
AppWizard
September 22, 2026

Google Play Store looks like it’s working on a special home for your vibe-coded apps

Google is developing AI Studio, which allows users to create applications using vibe coding, making app development more accessible to novice developers. The company is integrating this with its Gemini platform to simplify the coding process for Android users. A new section in the Play Store, tentatively called “Your creations,” is being explored for AI Studio creations, likely located within the “Manage apps & device” screen. Currently, publishing apps from AI Studio requires formal registration and testing. The “Your creations” interface may provide a way to manage personal projects while balancing ease of sideloading. Although there are hints of a connection between AI Studio and the Play Store, details about registration and testing processes remain unclear. The language suggests that applications could be shared with a broader audience, differing from traditional publication methods. An APK teardown indicates potential future features, but not all may be released publicly.
Why Android App Problems Start With Phone Settings
AppWizard
September 22, 2026

Why Android App Problems Start With Phone Settings

When an Android app encounters issues, the cause may be related to the device's settings rather than the app itself. Factors such as missing permissions, battery restrictions, or disabled notifications can affect app functionality. Users should check the specific feature that is failing, such as verifying microphone permission for voice messages or camera access for QR code scanners. Background restrictions can hinder apps that require background functionality, and different apps have varying background requirements. Notification settings should be inspected if alerts are absent, as these can differ by application and device. Storage space and cache management are important, with a recommendation to avoid clearing everything at once. If problems arise after installing an app from an untrusted source or if it requests excessive permissions, the app itself may be the issue. Android settings can vary between devices, so users may need to search for specific settings if guides do not match their device. Troubleshooting should be done one step at a time to identify the root cause of the issue.
Don’t buy a $500 dumbphone. These apps will make your Android phone calm
AppWizard
September 20, 2026

Don’t buy a $500 dumbphone. These apps will make your Android phone calm

The growing interest in minimalist phones, or "dumbphones," is prompting users to seek ways to transform existing smartphones into more focused devices. Key strategies include managing notifications by turning off alerts for most apps and allowing only essential updates, utilizing app blockers like Switchly to limit distractions from social media, and employing BlockAds to eliminate intrusive ads. Users can also opt for minimalist, ad-free versions of apps, such as the Fossify suite for essential functions and Breezy Weather for weather updates. Customizing the home screen to reduce clutter, such as simplifying it to a single page and disabling unnecessary widgets, can further enhance focus. Additionally, customizing popular apps like Chrome, Gmail, and Google Maps by disabling features and notifications helps create a calmer experience. Overall, intentional choices and the right tools can lead to a more serene smartphone environment.
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