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Gemini just got more useful in Android Auto now that flight delays and appointment addresses are a voice command away
AppWizard
October 20, 2026

Gemini just got more useful in Android Auto now that flight delays and appointment addresses are a voice command away

Google is enhancing its AI assistant, Gemini, within Android Auto by introducing a feature called Personal Intelligence, which allows Gemini to use information from Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Photos, YouTube, and Search for personalized assistance while driving. Users can interact with Gemini using natural voice prompts for tasks like finding flights or navigating to appointments. To use Personal Intelligence, users must grant permission for Gemini to access their information across Google applications. Users have reported issues with Gemini's integration with Android Auto, including lengthy responses and inconsistent command recognition. Google is also planning a significant redesign of Android Auto, expected to roll out in the fall.
Google Gemini Brings Personal Intelligence to Android Auto for Smarter, More Personalized Driving
AppWizard
October 20, 2026

Google Gemini Brings Personal Intelligence to Android Auto for Smarter, More Personalized Driving

Google has introduced the Personal Intelligence feature integrated into Gemini for Android Auto, enhancing the driving experience by allowing drivers to access information, navigate, and manage tasks without using their phones. The rollout began on October 19, with further support for vehicles with Google built-in expected in the coming months. Gemini can connect to various Google services, such as Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Maps, to provide tailored responses based on individual schedules and preferences. It can retrieve personal information, synthesize details from multiple sources, and offer intuitive navigation and recommendations. Users can manage their privacy settings and choose to disable the feature if desired.
Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 for Pixel rolling out with 21 fixes
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.
Marketplace Spotlight October 2026
AppWizard
October 20, 2026

Marketplace Spotlight October 2026

The narrator, Count James-ula, is known for his legendary abilities, including transforming into a bat and dunking a basketball. He declines to demonstrate his basketball skills due to feeling unwell and instead invites the reader to explore the Minecraft Marketplace. The text describes a "Parasite Outbreak" in Minecraft, where an infection spreads, causing mobs, including the narrator's horse, Mister Chestnut, to become hostile. The infection leads to outbreaks where clusters of parasites attack, forcing players to either eliminate them or flee.
Windows 98 SE users get a Thunderbolt 4 driver, thanks to AI assistance — vibe-coded xHCI98 driver works in Microsoft OSes up to Windows 7
Winsage
October 20, 2026

Windows 98 SE users get a Thunderbolt 4 driver, thanks to AI assistance — vibe-coded xHCI98 driver works in Microsoft OSes up to Windows 7

Windows 98 SE now has experimental support for USB4 and Thunderbolt 3/4 through the xHCI98 v3.0.0.0 driver developed by Yeo Kheng Meng. This driver enables the use of generic USB 3.x, USB4, and Thunderbolt host controllers on legacy operating systems like Windows 98 SE, ME, 2000, XP, Vista, and 7. It allows connections for USB storage devices, replaces native USB drivers, and supports USB 1.1, 2.0, SuperSpeed devices, UAS storage, and Thunderbolt docks and NVMe enclosures. Meng utilized AI tools for development and primarily tested the driver on Intel hardware, while advising users to be cautious of potential bugs. He also provides guidance on hardware compatibility, installation methods, and updates.
"We expect more from ourselves, too": Microsoft's design boss of Windows 11 admits the OS needs work, while AI is helping his team fix its inconsistencies
Winsage
October 20, 2026

“We expect more from ourselves, too”: Microsoft’s design boss of Windows 11 admits the OS needs work, while AI is helping his team fix its inconsistencies

Diego Baca, Microsoft's Vice President of Product Design, discussed the company's use of artificial intelligence to enhance design processes, noting that AI has significantly accelerated the productivity of the design team and enabled designers to contribute directly to code fixes for improved quality and consistency. He acknowledged the ongoing issue of design consistency in Windows 11 and recognized user expectations for a more cohesive experience, expressing a commitment to improvement. Baca's remarks reflect a shift towards greater transparency in addressing user concerns and invite dialogue about user experiences and expectations.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
October 20, 2026

Coming to XBOX Game Pass: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, The Séance of Blake Manor, and More

- Sandustry (Game Preview) (PC) – October 21: Available with Game Pass Premium, Ultimate, and PC Game Pass. - Dodo Duckie (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 22: Accessible through Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - Scramble Knights Online (Game Preview) (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 26: Available on day one with XBOX Game Pass. - The Séance of Blake Manor (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 27: Included in Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 29: Part of Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted (Cloud, Console, and PC) – October 29: Available for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. - Terrible Lizards (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 29: Launching on day one with XBOX Game Pass. - Pit of Goblin (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – November 3: Included in Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - The Elder Scrolls Online: Season 2 Update: Echoes of Skyrim – October 21: Includes new solo dungeons and gameplay enhancements. - The Finals: Welcome Pack – Available Now: Accessible to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Essential, and PC Game Pass subscribers. - World of Tanks Modern Armor: XP Stock – November 3: Available for Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Essential, and PC Game Pass. - Leaving October 31: Day of the Tentacle Remastered, Dead Static Drive, Deep Rock Galactic, Full Throttle Remastered, Grim Fandango Remastered, Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, Wartales, Wildgate. - Leaving November 10: Football Manager 26 (PC) and Football Manager 26 – Console Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC).
Android Oct. 2026 Update: Play Services v26.41 Guide
AppWizard
October 20, 2026

Android Oct. 2026 Update: Play Services v26.41 Guide

The October 2026 Google System Updates for the Android ecosystem include the release of Play Services version 26.41, which features enhanced security protocols, performance boosts with faster load times, and new APIs for developers. Additionally, WebView version 156 has been introduced to improve compatibility and performance for rendering web content. The Find Hub feature has been updated with a more intuitive interface and improved search algorithms to assist users in locating content and applications more efficiently.
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