connectivity features Archives

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Android is preparing a hub for all your satellite-connected apps

Google is enhancing Android's satellite connectivity capabilities, which will allow users to stay connected in areas without cellular service. A new Quick Settings tile and menu will streamline access to these features. Initially, satellite connectivity was limited to emergency messaging, but upcoming updates will include functionalities like WhatsApp calling and live location sharing. In the latest Android Canary build, a toggle for a “Satellite” tile is available under Settings > System > Developer Options, indicating three states: On, Available, and Not available. The Pixel 9 supports satellite connectivity, but the tile is marked as “Not available” due to the user's T-Mobile plan lacking satellite access. Tapping the tile leads to a “Satellite connectivity” page listing compatible apps, including Emergency SOS, Messages, Find Hub, Maps, and Settings. WhatsApp is not currently listed, despite prior announcements of its support for satellite calls. The app list varies based on device and plan support for LTE-based or Narrowband NTN. If LTE-based NTN is supported, the app list could expand to include AccuWeather, Google Weather, Snapchat, and X, suggesting future satellite support for these applications. The Satellite tile and landing page are operational in the Canary release but are currently accessible only through a developer option, indicating they may still be in testing. Future Android Canary releases will provide updates on this feature's development.

AppWizard

October 14, 2025

Google tried to kill this Pixel VoLTE-enabling app, but the developer already has a fix

In early 2023, a Korean developer launched the "Pixel IMS" app, enabling VoLTE and VoWiFi on unsupported carriers for Pixel users. A recent Google update in October 2025 disrupted this functionality by closing a loophole that allowed the app to access the overrideConfig API, resulting in the app crashing when users tried to toggle these features. The overrideConfig API is restricted to apps with the MODIFYPHONESTATE permission, typically reserved for privileged system applications. The Pixel IMS app had previously used Shizuku, an open-source tool, to gain elevated privileges and access the API. Google reclassified the loophole as a high-severity privilege escalation vulnerability but did not include it in the latest security bulletin. The update added a check to the overrideConfig API, blocking access from the shell user. In response, the developer created a workaround that indirectly calls the API through an Instrumentation component, circumventing the restriction. However, this workaround is vulnerable to future patches from Google, which could remove the necessary permissions from the shell app.

AppWizard

September 6, 2025

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro: LTE, MicroLED & Satellite Messaging Hands-On: Everything You Need to Know!

Garmin has launched the Fenix 8 Pro and Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED models, featuring LTE and two-way satellite messaging capabilities, increased display brightness (around 2,000 nits for the Pro model and 4,500 nits for the MicroLED), enhanced speaker loudness, and live two-way voice calls. The Fenix 8 Pro comes in 47mm and 51mm sizes, with the entry-level model priced at 9, while the MicroLED variant is priced at ,999 and only available in the 51mm size. The 43mm model has been removed due to engineering challenges with LTE integration. The new models offer various safety and communication features, including weather updates, incident detection, and emergency SOS. The LTE setup requires a subscription to Garmin’s inReach platform. The MicroLED version has a battery life of up to 10 days in smartwatch mode and 44 hours in GPS-only mode.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Google rolls out new AI-powered scam detection feature in Messages app

Google Messages has introduced several new features for Android and Pixel users, focusing on user safety and connectivity. Key updates include an AI-driven scam detection tool that analyzes SMS, MMS, and RCS messages in real time to identify potential scams, alerting users to suspicious messages. This feature is initially available in English in the US, UK, and Canada, and it prioritizes user privacy by processing data on the device. Users can also share their live location with trusted contacts through a new feature integrated with the Find My Device app, which allows for real-time location sharing while maintaining control over who can access this information. Additionally, exclusive features for the Pixel 9 model include enhanced connectivity options for linking GoPro cameras and other Pixel phones, as well as upgrades to the Pixel Studio app for creating stylized images and stickers.

Winsage

February 20, 2025

Windows 11 Pro vs Windows 11 Home: which version is right for you?

Windows 11 Pro and Windows 11 Home are two primary versions of Windows 11, each catering to different user needs. Windows 11 Pro allows for up to 2TB of RAM and 128 CPU cores, while Windows 11 Home is limited to 128GB of RAM and 64 CPU cores. Pro includes additional features for networking, security, and management, which may not significantly impact everyday performance for typical users but can enhance performance for those using virtual machines. Support for both versions is available through online resources, phone support, and in-app help, but Pro users may receive quicker responses and more specialized assistance due to dedicated support options. In terms of pricing, Windows 11 Home is more budget-friendly, while Windows 11 Pro is priced higher due to its advanced features aimed at professionals and businesses. Upgrading from Home to Pro is possible for a fee, and there are differences between OEM and retail versions. Windows 11 Home is suited for average users and families, while Windows 11 Pro is tailored for advanced users and professionals, offering enhanced security, device management, and connectivity features.

Winsage

September 26, 2024

Your Windows PC will soon better integrate with more Android phones

Xiaomi has preinstalled Microsoft's Link to Windows app on its latest flagship devices, the Xiaomi 14T and Xiaomi 14T Pro, to enhance user experience by enabling seamless integration between Android phones and Windows PCs. The app facilitates features like clipboard synchronization and app streaming, which improve workflow. The Xiaomi 14T Pro will receive the Link to Windows integration in the upcoming 1.0.10.0 update. The app is integrated into HyperOS, Xiaomi's customized Android version, enhancing its functionality. While the app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store, preinstallation significantly boosts performance. Other smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung and OPPO, have also adopted the Link to Windows app, indicating a trend towards improved cross-device connectivity. Xiaomi's strategy is aimed at reinforcing its ecosystem, especially given its portfolio of Windows PCs.

AppWizard

September 19, 2024

Google’s Cross-Device Sharing: Now on More Androids, Sync Everything

Recent updates for Android users include improvements in call casting and internet sharing. Users can access these features through the "Settings" app by selecting "Google," then "Devices & sharing," and finally "Cross-device services." To use call casting, all devices must be grouped under the same Google Account, currently available only for Google Meet. The internet sharing feature allows users to share their phone's internet connection with multiple Android devices, including Chromebooks, without needing a password, requiring Bluetooth and location services to be enabled.

AppWizard

April 14, 2024

HD Photos Come to Facebook Messenger

Facebook Messenger has enhanced its photo sharing experience by allowing users to send high-definition photos, following in the footsteps of WhatsApp. Users can now send multiple HD images in one go by activating the HD toggle in the chat composer. Messenger has also introduced collective albums for shared experiences and QR codes for easier contact addition. Additionally, users can now send files up to 100MB directly through the app.