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GrapheneOS Isn't Happy With Google Over Pixel's Widening Head Start
AppWizard
September 18, 2026

GrapheneOS Isn’t Happy With Google Over Pixel’s Widening Head Start

Google's September 2026 Pixel Update Bulletin includes patches that affect standard Android platform code, relevant to both Pixel and non-Pixel devices, which have not been included in the regular monthly Android Security Bulletin. GrapheneOS has noted that Android 17 QPR1 introduced new developer APIs not present in the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) for the first time since Android Honeycomb, with one new package and modifications to sixteen others. GrapheneOS is backporting Pixel firmware and drivers from QPR1 onto Android 17 but lacks permissions to distribute this work. Additionally, there has been a delay in Google’s compliance with a GPL source request, with access granted over two weeks after the initial request. Starting in 2027, Google will require all Android app developers to register with them and provide legal identification and signing key evidence, complicating the process of sideloading unverified apps. GrapheneOS and other organizations are advocating for the Keep Android Open campaign against these developments, which may restrict competition and tighten Google's control over the Android ecosystem.
Android apps can now check security patches down to individual device components
AppWizard
September 18, 2026

Android apps can now check security patches down to individual device components

The new AndroidX Security State libraries, with stable releases of Security State v1.1.0 and Security State Provider v1.0.0, allow developers to evaluate the security status of individual device components. They provide three levels of security patch information: Device Security Patch Level (DSPL), Published Security Patch Level (PSPL), and Available Security Patch Level (ASPL). These libraries enable checks on critical components of the Android operating system, including system modules and the Linux kernel, which are represented by version numbers rather than monthly patch dates. Applications that prioritize security can utilize this detailed patch information to assess vulnerabilities, particularly those tracked as Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs). The libraries also integrate with the Open Source Vulnerabilities (OSV) database for access to Android Security Bulletin data and device-specific vulnerability reports. Additionally, Android 17 allows manufacturers to declare individual security fixes beyond the stated security patch level, and Google is working with manufacturers to transition their OTA update clients to this new standardized system.
Microsoft explains why restarting Windows can shut it down more completely than actually shutting it down
Winsage
September 18, 2026

Microsoft explains why restarting Windows can shut it down more completely than actually shutting it down

The Fast Startup feature in Windows, enabled by default, allows the kernel session to remain hibernated during shutdown, which results in quicker boot times by restoring a saved state. In contrast, selecting Restart clears the kernel session entirely, performing a complete boot of Windows. The process of shutting down with Fast Startup involves closing applications, logging off, keeping the kernel loaded in memory, saving the kernel and drivers to hiberfil.sys, and powering off, while Restart closes applications, logs off, ends the kernel session, and reboots immediately without saving a kernel snapshot. Fast Startup can lead to persistent issues from previous sessions, making Restart a better option for troubleshooting. To perform a full shutdown bypassing Fast Startup, users can execute the command "shutdown /s /t 0." Microsoft advises against permanently disabling Fast Startup, as it enhances shutdown-to-boot transitions.
Google just put the latest AI models through a brutal coding test
AppWizard
September 18, 2026

Google just put the latest AI models through a brutal coding test

Google has launched Android Bench 2.0, a benchmark for evaluating large language models (LLMs) and AI agents on complex Android development tasks. This version focuses on long-horizon tasks (LHTs) that are more intricate than those assessed by the original benchmark. Key tasks include upgrading dependencies, adding major new features, and building Android apps from scratch. The new grading system uses continuous scoring instead of a binary pass-or-fail method, providing a more detailed performance evaluation. Currently, GPT-6 Astra leads the leaderboard with a 28% pass rate, followed by Gemini 3.8 Flash at 8%. Other evaluated models include Claude Fable 5.1, GPT-5.6 Sol, and Claude Opus 5. Google plans to expand the leaderboard with more models and results.
silver Android smartphone
BetaBeacon
September 17, 2026

Dave the Diver mobile port makes a splash on Android and iOS

Dave the Diver, originally launched in 2023 on PC and consoles, is now available on Android and iOS for .99 on the Google Play Store. The game offers a discounted price in the Philippines until Oct. 1 and includes the Dredge DLC crossover for free. The mobile version does not include certain DLCs from the PC and console versions. The game features adjustable touchscreen layouts, gyro tilt controls, and a fast-travel feature for quicker progression. It can run at 60 frames per second for better visuals.
Lepton from Valve to run Android games on Linux is now open source
BetaBeacon
September 17, 2026

Lepton from Valve to run Android games on Linux is now open source

Valve has opened the source code for Lepton, a compatibility layer for running Android games on Linux. Lepton is designed to work with the Steam client and focuses on getting Android games to run seamlessly on the Linux operating system. It is not intended for general Android use, but specifically for launching games. Lepton also offers features to assist game developers in bringing their VR Android games to Steam. Valve's commitment to open-source projects like Lepton benefits the wider Linux gaming community.
Diving and Sushi Bar in Your Pocket: Dave the Diver Released on iOS and Android
BetaBeacon
September 17, 2026

Diving and Sushi Bar in Your Pocket: Dave the Diver Released on iOS and Android

Dave the Diver, a popular game with a 96% positive review rating on Steam, has been released worldwide for mobile devices by Mintrocket studio. The game combines underwater exploration with sushi bar management, offering players a diverse gaming experience. The mobile version has revamped interface and optimized controls for touch screens, with in-game actions utilizing device capabilities. The game is available on both Android and iOS platforms globally, with a free initial part and full version priced at 699 rubles on the App Store and 899 rubles on Google Play.
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