distraction Archives

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Google might be working on a new Gemini UI that makes sense on tablets

Google is enhancing the user experience of its Gemini platform on tablets with a new beta release that features a tablet-friendly layout, including a sidebar for quick access to chats and a hamburger menu for navigation. The updated design includes shortcuts for starting new conversations and searching past discussions, as well as a modified prompt bar that highlights tools like “Deep Research” and “Canvas.” A new “Search History” function allows users to retrieve past chats using keywords. The latest beta version (v16.20.48.sa.arm64) for Android mirrors the web interface, with a left-hand sidebar for navigation and practical shortcuts for new and archived chats. Users can switch between different Gemini models using a dropdown menu, and a full-screen mode option is available to hide the sidebar for a distraction-free view. The timeline for the widespread rollout of the tablet-optimized layout is currently uncertain.

AppWizard

May 27, 2025

Fantasy co-op roguelite action game LORT announced for PC

Big Distraction, a new studio formed by veterans of the AAA gaming industry, has announced its first project, LORT, a cooperative roguelite action game for up to eight players set in a cursed fantasy realm. The game is scheduled for release on PC via Steam in the fourth quarter of 2025. LORT allows players to engage in battles, loot treasures, and accumulate power-ups while working together or playing solo. Key features include customizable weapons, over 100 unique power-ups, challenging bosses, and the ability to shape gameplay experiences through selected ingredients and quests. An announcement trailer and screenshots are available for viewing.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Google teases media app updates for Android Auto, and they look good

Google has announced updates for Android Auto aimed at improving media applications, revealed at the I/O 2025 event. Key updates include the introduction of the “SectionedItemTemplate,” which organizes content into distinct sections for better usability, and a revamped “MediaPlaybackTemplate” that allows developers to customize the “Now Playing” screen layout. Google is also enhancing the “Car App Library” to enable richer experiences for media apps. Popular platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music will be among the first to implement these changes, although a timeline for the updates is not yet confirmed.

BetaBeacon

May 9, 2025

Why Android’s hidden custom modes are such a productivity game-changer

- The custom mode feature was added to Android 15 QPR2 - The first step is to open the Settings app - You can set a schedule for your custom mode - Tap the Modes Quick Tile to select the mode you want to use - Remember to disable the mode when you're done with the task

AppWizard

May 8, 2025

How to customize YouTube notifications on Android

YouTube's Android app now allows users to customize notification preferences for new videos, comments, and live streams. This feature enables users to receive updates that align with their interests while reducing irrelevant alerts. Adjusting these settings is easy within the app, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

AppWizard

May 2, 2025

The best Oblivion Remastered mods

The modding community has become essential to the experience of Bethesda RPGs, particularly with the launch of Oblivion Remastered. Modders are updating existing mods and creating new ones, although the introduction of Unreal Engine 5 alongside Gamebryo may slow the maturation of the modding scene. Key mods include: - Oblivion Script Extender: A crucial tool expected to support complex customizations. - Ultimate Engine Tweaks: Helps alleviate performance issues by allowing players to disable certain visual effects. - Universal Achievement Unblocker: Prevents mods or console commands from blocking achievements. - Better HUD: Provides smaller compass options and minimalist designs for a more immersive experience. - No HUD No Effects: Toggles off UI elements and visual effects for distraction-free gameplay. - Unleveled Item Rewards: Ensures players receive optimal quest reward items. - Difficulty Slider Fixed: Balances difficulty settings for a consistent challenge. - Auto Local Map: Automatically opens the local map when entering an interior space. - First Person Horse: Allows first-person riding, despite some clipping issues. - Faster Sleep and Wait: Speeds up the waiting process for players.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

This E Ink tablet that runs on Android is irreplaceable when I’m traveling

The Onyx Boox Page is a seven-inch E Ink display e-reader priced at 9. It operates on a simplified version of Android 11, allowing users to download various applications such as Kindle, TikTok, and Google Docs. The device facilitates note-taking and integrates apps for enhanced productivity. It includes a flip case for protection, customizable user interface options, and straightforward access to settings. The Boox Page features a Library and Store app for free book downloads and supports sideloading of ebooks and audiobooks. It has a battery life rated for up to six weeks, 32GB of base storage, and a microSD card slot for expansion. The device has received updates, including an AI assistant powered by ChatGPT.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

How to use Truecaller efficiently on Android

Truecaller is an application for identifying unknown callers and blocking spam calls. To optimize its performance on Android, users should regularly update the app, customize settings for notifications and privacy, enable the Caller ID feature, utilize the spam blocking feature, and report spam numbers to improve the app's database.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

Millions of Android apps have disappeared from the Play Store this year, and for good reason

The Google Play Store's app count has decreased from approximately 3.4 million in early 2024 to around 1.8 million today, a 47% decline. This reduction is attributed to stricter quality control measures implemented by Google in July 2024, which targeted malfunctioning apps and those with limited functionality. Google reported blocking 2.36 million apps for policy violations and banning over 158,000 developer accounts linked to harmful activities. In contrast, the Apple App Store's app count rose from 1.6 million to 1.64 million during the same period. Additionally, a new EU regulation requires developers to disclose their names and addresses in app listings, with non-compliance risking delisting from EU markets. Despite the decline, 10,400 new applications were launched on the Play Store this year, indicating a 7.1% increase compared to last year.

AppWizard

April 24, 2025

The Gemini app is becoming more like NotebookLM in April’s Workspace feature drop

In the April 2025 Workspace feature drop, Google introduced new AI tools across Gemini, Gmail, Slides, and Chat. Gemini gained two features similar to NotebookLM: Canvas and Audio Overviews. Gmail can now automatically detect event invites in emails and prompt users to add them to their Calendar with one click. Additionally, Gmail will offer Contextual Smart Replies for efficient communication. Google Slides received a new design sidebar for easier presentation creation, allowing users to explore templates and add elements without leaving their current slide. For enterprise users, a board tab in Chat will enable teams to pin messages, files, and links, and a new HubSpot app for Google Chat will enhance workflow efficiency. These features are now widely accessible as part of the April 2025 update.