device Archives

AppWizard

June 27, 2026

These Israeli apps can make your phone smarter: calls, language learning and more

- Arabic Through Humor is a language learning app that uses humor to help users retain vocabulary and grammar while learning Arabic. - Hidden Touch Button allows users to access various functions of their device from the selfie-camera area through a discreet touch. - An accessibility service app provides real-time transcription and sign language interpretation for deaf and hard-of-hearing users to enhance communication. - An open-source document scanner app enables users to digitize, edit, and organize documents on Android devices, promoting productivity and sustainability.

Winsage

June 27, 2026

How to get free Windows 10 security patches until October 2027 – and avoid the $30 fee

Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10, but users can receive critical security updates until October 12, 2027, through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program at no cost. To qualify, users must have a Windows 10 PC running version 22H2 or later and sign in with a Microsoft account, excluding Enterprise and Education editions. In the European Economic Area, customers automatically qualify for free ESU subscriptions without needing a Microsoft account. Enrollment can be done through Settings > Windows Update, and users may need to back up their settings or redeem Microsoft Rewards points. Business customers must purchase ESU subscriptions at a higher cost. Users should be cautious of potential issues, such as cloud storage consumption during backup.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Gemini gains the power to help find and install Google Play apps right in chat

The Google Play connected app for Gemini is being rolled out to enhance app discovery and interaction. This integration allows users to receive tailored app recommendations based on their needs, facilitating easier navigation of the Google Play Store. Users can request specific types of apps and inquire about in-app purchases through Gemini. To use this feature, users must be 18 years or older, have the Google Play Store app installed, be signed into Gemini with a personal Google Account, and enable the “Keep Activity” option in Gemini settings. Connecting Google Play to Gemini involves logging into the same account used for the Play Store and following on-screen prompts if the connection is not already established.

BetaBeacon

June 26, 2026

Android 17 to offer a literal game changer for foldable phones – and now we’re in the market for a Pixel Fold

Google has unveiled a new foldable gaming mode for Android 17, which will divide the display of a book-style foldable device evenly with the game displayed on the top screen and a virtual gamepad on the bottom screen.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Gemini’s new Google Play Store integration lets you chat to find Android apps, games

The Gemini app for Android has integrated with the Google Play Store, enabling users to engage in conversational browsing to discover apps and games. Users can ask Gemini for recommendations on various types of apps, and it responds with curated results, including Play Store cards with ratings and download counts. Users can initiate app installations directly from these cards or follow up with commands to install apps. Additionally, Gemini allows users to search for and purchase in-app items, subscriptions, or digital gift cards, but can only recommend items for apps already installed on the user's device. The integration requires users to enter specific prompts to connect to the Play Store, and its availability may vary across devices.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Banking Apps, No Google, and a Locked Bootloader: How iodé Makes Privacy Android Work for Everyone

Brian from iodé discussed the project's goal of creating a user-friendly, privacy-focused Android distribution. Key features include a tracker blocker that enhances user privacy and two app stores—F-Droid and Aurora Store—to address app compatibility concerns. Users can uninstall pre-installed apps and experience reduced notifications and ads. iodé promotes sustainability by encouraging the use of refurbished devices and aims to support a wider range of devices beyond just Google Pixels. The user base is estimated at over 10,000 individuals across various countries, with a focus on privacy and usability. iodé offers integrated privacy features and monthly security updates, supporting over 60 devices.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Google’s Pixel home screen organizer looks almost ready for prime time in Android 17 QPR1 Beta 5

The fifth beta release of Android 17 QPR1 has introduced advancements in the home screen organizer feature for Pixel phones, allowing users to create, delete, and rearrange home screens. The feature suggests automatic population with relevant apps and widgets based on categories derived from the Google Play Store, including Most Used, Games, Health & Fitness, Productivity, Travel, and Social. Users can choose from three layout options for arranging apps and widgets. Additionally, a new folder creator feature has been added, enabling users to group apps into folders and eliminate duplicate icons from the home screen.

BetaBeacon

June 26, 2026

11 Essential Apps Every Retro Gamer Needs On Their Phone

RA Tracker is an unofficial companion app for RetroAchievements that allows users to track their progress, browse leaderboards, and look up achievement sets. It connects to your account via the public API and is free to download from the Google Play Store.

BetaBeacon

June 26, 2026

Android 17’s new foldable gaming mode could make flippy phones more fun

Android 17 is introducing a dedicated gaming mode for foldable devices that features a virtual gamepad with touch controls. The virtual gamepad includes a D-pad, virtual sticks, action buttons, triggers, and more, and can be customized to suit user preferences. The mode is compatible with games that support physical controllers and can be easily activated by unfolding the device. The goal is to enhance the gaming experience on Android devices and cater to users who prefer physical controls for certain games.

Tech Optimizer

June 26, 2026

Bitdefender vs Norton vs McAfee 2026: 2 Win Gold, 1 Bronze

In 2026, Bitdefender, Norton 360, and McAfee each achieved a perfect score of 18 out of 18 in AV-TEST’s April evaluation. Bitdefender excels in protection technology and has the lightest footprint among paid tiers. Norton 360 offers an unlimited VPN, substantial cloud backup, and LifeLock identity theft protection, achieving the best real-world protection score in 2025. McAfee is strong in identity protection and unlimited-device pricing but falls short in core malware engine performance. Bitdefender is noted for its advanced threat detection and has a low entry price of .99 for its Antivirus Plus. Norton 360 includes an unlimited VPN and up to 250 GB cloud backup, while McAfee+ Ultimate provides identity theft coverage and three-bureau credit monitoring. All three products received perfect scores in AV-TEST’s April evaluation, but independent lab results from AV-Comparatives showed Norton and Bitdefender as Top-Rated Products, while McAfee did not achieve this status. The specifications comparison reveals that Bitdefender supports up to 25 devices, Norton 360 offers unlimited devices, and McAfee also supports unlimited devices. Bitdefender employs Advanced Threat Defense, Norton uses SONAR and Intrusion Prevention, and McAfee utilizes Real Protect. Norton and McAfee received AV-Comparatives Performance awards in 2025 for their light system impact, while Bitdefender did not receive such recognition. Pricing strategies include significant renewal increases after steep first-year discounts. Customer support varies, with Norton and McAfee providing extensive 24/7 support, while Bitdefender offers limited phone support. The ownership structures differ, with Norton under Gen Digital, McAfee as a private entity, and Bitdefender remaining independent. Real-world scenarios suggest Bitdefender is best for single users, Norton 360 or McAfee+ for families, McAfee+ Ultimate or Norton for identity theft concerns, and Norton 360 for privacy-focused users.