Development Archives

BetaBeacon

October 21, 2026

Hades II ported to Android – fan port released based on macOS version

- Enthusiasts in the gaming community have released an unofficial Android port of Hades II based on the macOS version. - The Android port supports touch controls and external gamepads, showing decent performance even on less powerful devices. - Users have reported positive feedback on performance, with some achieving 30-50 frames per second on budget devices. - Some players have encountered issues such as black screens and control problems, but developers are actively working to address these. - The latest update, version 1.1-beta, has resolved some issues and optimized the game for a variety of hardware configurations. - Players need to have their own files from the macOS version of the game to play the Android port.

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Windows 10 users were right: Windows 11 still can’t drag the taskbar, so Microsoft is testing a menu instead

Windows 10 allowed users to drag the taskbar to any screen edge, a feature missing in Windows 11, which initially frustrated users. Microsoft is currently testing a new right-click menu in Insider Preview Build 26340.9750 that enables users to reposition the taskbar without accessing the Settings menu. This menu includes buttons for moving the taskbar to the left, top, right, or bottom of the screen. Although the menu is available in the Experimental channel, it remains hidden from casual users and has not been officially announced. Testing confirmed that the taskbar can be moved smoothly between positions, although some minor inconsistencies with the Start menu were noted. The right-click menu concept has been in development for some time, as indicated by a previously deleted video from a Microsoft engineer. Users previously had to navigate through Settings to change the taskbar position, and while Microsoft reintroduced some movement capabilities, the process is still cumbersome. The auto-hide feature is only available when the taskbar is at the bottom, limiting customization options. Microsoft is also exploring additional features, including different taskbar positions per monitor and the potential return of drag-and-drop functionality.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

People Are Vibe Coding the Ads Out of Their Smart TVs: Here’s How

A developer enhanced the user experience on his parents' Xiaomi TV by disabling 25 pre-installed packages, creating a home screen similar to that of an Apple TV. This effort is part of his open-source project, cleanyourtv, which is compatible with 107 TV models across 37 brands. The tools used allow users to deactivate apps without permanently deleting them, enabling easy restoration. The project has gained popularity, with thousands of users applying similar techniques, improving their TVs' performance and functionality. Users have reported freeing up memory and customizing their devices creatively, while concerns about privacy and data collection from smart TVs continue to be raised. The cleanyourtv repository is expanding with community contributions, reflecting a shift towards user control in smart technology.

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Windows 11 Auto-Recovery: Cloud Repair Off by Default on Corporate Devices, Forcing IT Departments to Weigh the Pros and Cons

Microsoft's Quick Machine Recovery feature, integrated into Windows 11, is disabled by default for enterprise-managed devices due to a significant incident in July 2024 when a faulty security update caused many devices to be unable to boot. The feature identifies devices that fail to boot multiple times and connects to Windows Update via the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to search for fixes. It is available in Windows 11 version 24H2 (build 26100.4700) and later, with default settings varying based on device management status: disabled for Enterprise/Education editions and domain-joined Pro editions, and enabled for Home and unmanaged Pro editions. Administrators can configure options such as enabling/disabling cloud repair, automatic repair, and setting remediation check frequencies. A test mode is available for devices in the Windows Insider Program. Additionally, starting October 13, 2026, Microsoft will implement restrictions on external storage devices formatted with ReFS, which will be audited by default, with enforcement beginning in January 2027. Users will need to transition data from ReFS to supported formats by this date. A registry and Group Policy setting named "RefsRemovableDeviceMountPolicy" will allow customization of this restriction.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Personal Intelligence hits the road: Google brings Gemini’s tailored assistance to Android Auto

Google plans to integrate its Gemini's Personal Intelligence into vehicles equipped with Android Auto, enhancing the driving experience by providing personalized assistance similar to that on Android phones. The feature will allow the AI to connect to Workspace apps, Gmail, Photos, and Search for tailored help, and can resume previous conversations, find restaurants, and provide directions. The rollout of Personal Intelligence for Android Auto will begin in the coming months, allowing users who have set it up on their phones to enjoy the same experience in their vehicles without additional configuration. Users can also set it up through the Gemini settings if they haven't done so already. Since its debut in January, Gemini's Personal Intelligence has been introduced across various platforms, offering intuitive and contextually relevant interactions, such as meal suggestions based on dietary restrictions and assistance with vehicle-related inquiries.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Gemini can now use your email, calendar and photos while you drive

To enhance the in-car experience, assess and remove unnecessary Google apps linked to the vehicle. Test various queries while parked, including ambiguous names and old calendar items. Verify that disabling Personal Intelligence returns the system to a non-personalized mode. Households should discuss account usage during drives and confidentiality of responses. Employers should note that consumer features may not be available for managed Workspace identities. Vehicle owners should anticipate updates for built-in features as indicated by their manufacturer. The effectiveness of these features relies on accurate data retrieval and intentional permissions.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Google’s more personalized Gemini AI is heading to your car

Google has integrated its Gemini AI with various Google applications to enhance the driving experience for users of Android Auto and vehicles with Google built-in. Gemini can access information from Gmail, Calendar, Maps, Photos, YouTube, and Search, allowing drivers to retrieve flight details, request directions, and navigate using visual data from photos. Major automotive manufacturers like Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Volvo, and Polestar are incorporating this technology into their latest models. Users must enable the Personal Intelligence setting for tailored responses, which will only work when the phone is connected to the vehicle. Essential functions like navigation, music playback, and calling remain operational without Personal Intelligence. The rollout of Personal Intelligence for Android Auto begins today, with support for vehicles with Google built-in expected in the coming months.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 Brings 21 Fixes to Pixel Phones

Google has released Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2, addressing 21 issues, including eight significant crash-and-reboot bugs. The update is available for various Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6a to Pixel 11 series, the Pixel Tablet, and the Pixel Fold. Notable fixes include resolving crashes during usage, unexpected shutdowns during WhatsApp video calls, and connectivity issues with cellular data, MMS, and hotspot services. Interface adjustments include corrections to the Internet tile in Quick Settings and the alignment of a pin icon in the share sheet. A new lock-screen setting requires users to unlock their device before changing Quick Settings tiles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplane mode, or mobile data. The stable version is anticipated in March 2027.

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Windows and Xbox teams reportedly clashed over OS experience for gaming, as next-gen Xbox Helix console slips into 2028

Microsoft plans to introduce new gaming hardware, starting with a handheld device expected in 2027 and a full-fledged console slated for 2028. The handheld device's details are unclear, and it may be developed in collaboration with a third-party manufacturer. The upcoming console is anticipated to be a first-party offering running on a specialized version of Windows. Development kits for these devices are expected to be available in early 2027.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 for Pixel rolling out with 21 fixes

The Android 17 QPR3 preview is set to launch in March 2027, with Beta 2 now available for Google Pixel devices. This update resolves various issues, including: - Intermittent device crashes and reboots during normal usage. - Persistent text in the Internet Quick Settings tile when mobile data is active without Wi-Fi. - Media output dialog failing to recognize the monochrome system theme with external audio devices. - Misalignment of pin icons next to pinned apps in the share sheet. - Unexpected API lint and source compatibility check errors from internal PublishedApi declarations. - Unexpected device shutdowns during WhatsApp video calls. - Overlapping lock screen notifications with UI elements causing stuttering animations. - Cellular data, MMS, and hotspot services failing on Dish Network. - Screen recording freezing after screen rotation. - Abnormally small rendering of system UI, fonts, and apps regardless of display size settings. - Display turning black and unresponsive after ending a phone call. - Terminal app failing to launch the Linux development environment virtual machine post-installation. - Wi-Fi Aware errors when establishing data paths after network request release. - Paired watches ringing after an incoming call is answered. - Airbnb app failing to connect when sending messages. - Misalignment of Bluetooth subtitle in Quick Settings. - Unexpected closure of the app drawer when switching keyboard languages. - Bluetooth pairing failures due to connection timeouts. - VoLTE, VoNR, and Wi-Fi calling unavailable on the IT&E network. - High idle battery drain from motion sensors remaining active post Face Unlock or camera use. - Wi-Fi Calling unavailable on the OXIO network. Users can report issues via the Android Beta Feedback app or the Android Beta community on Reddit. System images for Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 are available for various Pixel devices, and interested users can join the Android Beta Program for an on-device OTA experience.