developer preview Archives

BetaBeacon

February 3, 2025

Three-Way Split-Screen: A Game-Changer for Android 16 and One UI 8

Android 16 could introduce a three-way split-screen mode for tablets, allowing users to run three apps simultaneously on a single screen. This feature, inspired by OnePlus' Open Canvas, aims to enhance multitasking capabilities for larger screens. Samsung's One UI 8, based on Android 16, may bring this feature to its tablets, improving productivity and app management for users. The introduction of this feature could revolutionize the way users interact with tablets, maximizing screen real estate and bringing Android tablets closer to competing with productivity-focused devices like iPads.

AppWizard

December 21, 2024

An Android OS preview: Five key trends we expect in 2025

Google is set to unveil Android 16 several months earlier than usual, with a stable build anticipated in Q2 2025. The developer preview is already accessible, and public betas are expected to roll out in Q1 2025. Android 16 will include major features, while a subsequent release in Q4 may focus on stability improvements and optimizations, possibly labeled Android 16.1. Google is reverting to smaller tiles in the interface for Android 16, and enhanced multitasking capabilities are anticipated for foldable devices. Google is integrating AI features into its ecosystem and collaborating with manufacturers like Honor and Samsung for new device launches. The gradual merging of Android and ChromeOS aims to enhance user experience. Google is also collaborating with Samsung and Qualcomm to introduce Android XR for extended reality headsets and glasses, with the first hardware expected in 2025.

AppWizard

December 21, 2024

Google Keep May Become a System App in Android 16

Google Keep is transitioning into a system app on Android 16 devices, as seen in the Android 16 Developer Preview 2, where it is listed as a pre-installed application that cannot be uninstalled without root access. This change positions Google Keep alongside essential system applications like Phone, Contacts, and the Google Play Store. The app recently gained compatibility with Google Tasks, indicating a renewed focus on enhancing its functionality within the Android ecosystem. Future updates are expected to further integrate Google Keep as a key productivity tool on the platform.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Android 16 introduces new tools to control AI text generation in apps

Google is releasing Android 16, which includes the WritingTools API that allows app developers to control the use of AI writing tools. The API introduces two methods: isWritingToolsEnabled() and setWritingToolsEnabled(), enabling applications to manage AI interactions with specific text fields. By default, AI writing tools are enabled, but developers can disable them in sensitive areas such as password fields and email addresses. This aims to standardize practices across Android keyboards, as not all third-party keyboards currently follow similar protocols. The API is part of a broader set of innovations in Android 16 Developer Preview 2, which also includes enhanced haptic controls, searchable cloud media items, and an adaptive refresh rate API.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Google Keep might become an essential Android app

Google Keep may soon be classified as a core system app in the Android ecosystem, as indicated in the Android 16 Developer Preview 2. This change means that users upgrading to this version will find Google Keep integrated into their devices and it will become uninstallable without root access. Earlier this year, Google integrated Keep with its Tasks feature, streamlining note and reminder management. The promotion of Keep to a system app suggests a renewed commitment to its development and potential introduction of advanced features. Users can expect quicker updates, enhanced performance, and innovative features, but those who do not wish to use Google Keep will be unable to remove it without rooting their devices.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Android 16 may promote this Google app to a core app that cannot be uninstalled

Google Keep is set to become a system app in Android 16's Developer Preview 2, meaning it will no longer be uninstallable, although users can disable it. This change aligns with Google's plans to introduce a new lock screen notes feature. As a system app, Google Keep will be integrated more deeply into the Android ecosystem, alongside other core applications. The anticipated lock screen note-taking feature is expected to debut with Android 15, allowing users to take notes without unlocking their devices.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Google Keep set to be a de facto system app on Android 16

Google Keep will transition to a system app in Android 16, as reported by Android Police. This change means it will be pre-installed on devices running Android 16 and cannot be removed through standard methods. The designation as a system app grants Google Keep enhanced privileges, allowing it to access features and data unavailable to third-party applications. Users may also see new functionalities, such as the ability to take notes directly from the lock screen, due to this transition.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Android 16 may let apps block AI-generated text from keyboards

Android 16 may introduce a feature allowing apps to block AI-generated text from keyboards. Reports indicate that Google is exploring an API enabling developers to identify and prevent AI-generated text from being pasted into their applications. This functionality involves the EditorInfo class, which includes new methods isWritingToolsEnabled() and setWritingToolsEnabled(). When an AI writing tool is active, setWritingToolsEnabled() will return true, allowing keyboards to generate text. Apps can disable this feature by configuring setWritingToolsEnabled() to return false, preventing the insertion of AI-generated text. The specific applications that will implement this feature are currently unknown.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Google Keep’s joining the ranks of system apps considered essential

Google Keep is being elevated to the status of a system app in the latest Android 16 Developer Preview 2, meaning it will be embedded within the operating system and cannot be uninstalled without root access. This change indicates a renewed commitment to the app, which has recently seen enhancements, including integration with Google Tasks. The upgrade suggests potential for enriched functionalities and tighter integration with other core Android features.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Android 16 will let apps block AI writing tools

Google has released the second developer preview of Android 16, which includes the Writing Tools API. This API allows applications to opt out of AI-driven text generation. It features two methods in the EditorInfo class: isWritingToolsEnabled(), which indicates if AI writing tools are active (enabled by default), and setWritingToolsEnabled(), which allows apps to prevent AI tools from rewriting user-generated text. Developers can disable these tools in contexts like password or numeric input fields. The API aims to give developers greater control over when to use AI writing tools, particularly in sensitive scenarios. Keyboard app developers are responsible for adhering to the API guidelines, though users may find ways to bypass restrictions.