developer mode Archives

AppWizard

September 18, 2026

This clever Plex app could give your aging LG TV a new lease on life

A new open-source Plex client named PlxNative has been developed for older LG TVs running on webOS to improve the browsing experience of Plex libraries. It operates independently of a web browser using a native Rust/OpenGL interface, allowing it to launch in about one second and ensuring fluid scrolling and menu navigation. PlxNative supports various Plex functionalities, including library browsing, profile switching, audio and subtitle selection, and direct play or server transcoding. It does not replace the TV's built-in video decoder and connects directly to the Plex Media Server over the local network after initial sign-in. Installation options include the Homebrew Channel or sideloading via LG’s Developer Mode, which requires periodic session renewals. The developer has submitted PlxNative for official review by LG.

BetaBeacon

September 11, 2026

This sideloaded Android Auto app transformed my car’s screen into a retro gaming arcade

- Some of the games in Xtream Player are knock-offs of well-known titles like BrickIt, SweepIt, SnakeIt, Circle Ninja, and Chess. - The games have simplistic visuals and are reminiscent of early 1980s 8-bit home console games. - Xtream Player is not as advanced as GameSnacks in Android Auto. - Getting Xtream Player to work in Android Auto requires enabling Developer Mode for both Android and Android Auto, installing AAEnabler, and paying a one-time premium fee.

Tech Optimizer

September 7, 2026

Intego ONE now protects your iPhone too – and there’s 50% off in September

Intego ONE Complete has launched the Intego ONE: VPN & Wi-Fi Security app for iPhone, available at no extra charge to Complete subscribers. The app provides VPN protection, Wi-Fi security assessments, and checks on built-in iPhone security settings but does not function as antivirus software. It enhances existing Apple security measures by addressing vulnerabilities related to insecure Wi-Fi connections and unprotected internet access. The app is accessible to both new and existing subscribers, and Intego is currently offering a 50% discount on subscriptions until September 30, 2026. Intego ONE is available in three tiers: Essential, Advanced, and Complete, with the Complete tier including the new iPhone app. The app features a VPN that encrypts internet connections on public Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi security checks, and assessments of iPhone security settings. While traditional viruses are rare on iPhones, threats like spyware and exploits still exist. The app does not replace Apple's malware protection but complements it. Intego ONE Complete is recommended for Mac and iPhone owners, particularly those who travel frequently or connect to public Wi-Fi. The pricing includes various deals, with a 50% discount currently available and a subsequent 35% discount after the promotional period.

AppWizard

September 6, 2026

How to sideload apps onto Android Auto

Android Auto was designed for simplicity, but users want more functionality like streaming YouTube or screen mirroring. Sideloading allows users to install unapproved apps, unlocking additional features, though it poses risks to security, reliability, and safety. To sideload apps, users must enable Developer Mode on their phone and Android Auto, then install the Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) and explore open-source apps like CarStream and AAMirror. Risks of sideloading include safety concerns with video streaming while driving and increased exposure to malware, as sideloaded apps bypass Google’s security checks. Google plans to introduce new verification requirements for developers starting in late 2026 to mitigate these risks. Most drivers find the standard Android Auto experience sufficient, and sideloading should be approached cautiously.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

What is Android System Intelligence and what happens if you turn it off?

Android System Intelligence (ASI) is a component created by Google that enhances user experience on Android devices, particularly on Pixel phones, by supporting features like Live Caption, Now Playing, Smart Autorotate, and app predictions. ASI operates within Android's Private Compute Core, introduced in 2021, and utilizes machine learning without direct internet access, relying on Private Compute Services for cloud updates. It collects data such as crash logs and device identifiers for analytics, with users having the option to disable this data collection. ASI is not a standalone app but an infrastructure that supports various features, including music identification and smart notification actions. It requests extensive permissions for functionalities like smart predictions and contact suggestions, though not all features require all permissions. The privacy framework of ASI is designed to limit direct internet access, and users can view a Network Usage Log on Pixel devices. Disabling ASI is possible but does not remove it; it can be turned off under Settings > Apps. Reports indicate that essential phone functions remain intact even when ASI features are disabled, such as Now Playing and Live Caption. Google has not stated that disabling ASI will cause instability in the Android operating system. For troubleshooting ASI issues, Google recommends restarting the device, updating software, force-stopping the app, or clearing its cache or data. ASI has over 5 billion downloads on Google Play.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

What to try when an Android app keeps crashing

Developers frequently update apps on the Google Play Store to improve user experience and fix bugs, with app crashes often resulting from problematic updates. To troubleshoot an app, users should check for updates in the Play Store. If no updates are available, users can access the app's settings by long-pressing the app icon or navigating through Settings > Apps. Users can clear the app's cache and force stop it to potentially resolve issues. If problems persist, uninstalling and reinstalling the app may be necessary, although this may result in loss of locally stored data unless cloud backup is enabled. Users can also clear the app's data directly from the App info page. Restarting the device and checking for system updates can also help resolve app crashes. Users can sideload older versions of apps from trusted sources like APKMirror if needed. Lastly, using the app's web version can serve as a temporary solution.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Android Can Now Share Space With the Original Software on the reMarkable Paper Pro

Chalid Raqami has integrated Android 13 into the reMarkable Paper Pro, allowing users to run a full Android system alongside the original Linux-based software. Users can switch between the note-taking interface and Android in about 20 seconds by double-tapping the power button. The device features 2GB of RAM and a 1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 quad-core processor. The integration enhances functionality with access to Kindle, internet browsers, Microsoft OneNote, and audiobooks, and allows Bluetooth keyboard connectivity. Stylus performance has improved with low latency pen mode, and battery life has increased, reducing standby drain to approximately 0.3 percent per hour. However, heavy applications like Obsidian face challenges, and video playback can be cumbersome. The Android port is not yet ready for public release and requires developer mode, with Raqami working on refining the installation and recovery process for broader sharing.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

This sideloaded Android Auto app is my favorite way to watch YouTube and browse the web in my car

Xtream Player is a sideloaded Android Auto application that offers stable YouTube access and web browsing capabilities, outperforming previous apps like Fermata Auto and Screen2Auto. It allows users to connect to platforms like Plex, access phone folders, view images, and stream internet radio. The app features fluid swipe navigation and a responsive on-screen keyboard, enabling users to log into their YouTube accounts for personalized content. However, it has a quirky user interface and some glitches, such as a persistent pop-up related to video playback safety. Xtream Player originated as a fork of Fermata Auto and requires users to enable Developer Mode on their Android devices for installation. Users must grant extensive permissions for the app to function properly, raising potential privacy concerns. Official YouTube support for Android Auto is expected later this year.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

3 Apps You Can Sideload On Android Auto

Transforming an old tablet into an Android Auto head unit involves activating developer mode and enabling "Unknown Sources" to sideload applications. Alternatively, third-party tools like Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) can be used to integrate unofficial apps. Sideloading carries risks, as these apps are not officially vetted and may malfunction after system updates. CarStream is a sideloaded app that allows users to access YouTube on their car display without rooting their phone, making it useful during parked moments. Fermata Auto is an open-source media player that plays local media files from a phone or hard drive, ideal for offline use. Screen2Auto mirrors a phone's display onto the car screen, allowing access to any app, but should be used with caution while driving.

AppWizard

August 2, 2026

How to sideload Android APKs on your Chromebook

A Chromebook can be used for productivity, gaming, and entertainment, and users can sideload Android apps when they are not available on the Google Play Store. Sideloading involves installing Android Package Kits (APKs) directly onto the device, but caution is advised as these apps have not been verified by Google. Users should research APKs to ensure they are legitimate and free from malware. To sideload an app, users can enable Linux on their Chromebook and use Android Debug Bridge (ADB). This requires enabling ADB debugging in the Linux development environment and using the Terminal to install the APK. Alternatively, users can run APKs using an emulator in Android Studio, which involves setting up Android Studio and creating an Android Virtual Device to install the APK.