file transfers Archives

AppWizard

November 29, 2025

Google’s Pixels have users thinking there’s a ghost, as apps begin to struggle

Google Pixel users are experiencing a glitch where closed apps, such as Instagram, unexpectedly reopen when switching to another application. This issue has persisted for six months and affects devices like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 10 Pro XL. Users have noted that it disrupts app-switching, and a suggested workaround is to pause briefly before selecting another app. Additionally, Pixel 10 users have reported significant Wi-Fi connectivity problems following an AirDrop-Quick Share update, with a temporary solution being to uninstall the Quick Share extension or use Bluetooth for file transfers. Furthermore, Pixel 10 users are facing issues with unresponsive or lagging speakerphone functionality in the Phone app, which has been ongoing since May and also affects earlier Pixel 9 models. Google has deemed this speakerphone issue as "won't fix (Infeasible)."

AppWizard

November 28, 2025

Pixel 10 users face Wi-Fi troubles, AirDrop- Quick Share update: What you need to know

Google's Quick Share update has caused significant Wi-Fi connectivity issues for Pixel 10 users, leading to dropped connections when accessing the Quick Share menu. Users have reported that the Wi-Fi issues are linked to the latest Quick Share extension update (version 1.0.815689706). Workarounds include uninstalling the Quick Share extension or using Bluetooth for file transfers. Google has not yet officially addressed the Wi-Fi problem affecting Pixel 10 users.

Winsage

November 20, 2025

3 reasons why I swapped Windows File Explorer for the Files app

Windows 11’s File Explorer lacks user-friendly features found in the Files app from the Microsoft Store. The Files app allows users to tag images with labels for easy access, offers extensive customization options including personal background images and various themes, and features a dual-pane view for side-by-side folder comparisons. Users can tag files with multiple labels for better organization, and manage these tags easily. The Files app enhances productivity with its advanced features, making it a preferred alternative to File Explorer.

AppWizard

November 16, 2025

10 Of The Best Free Android Apps You Haven’t Heard Of

A selection of free Android apps with a minimum rating of 4.0 on the Play Store includes: 1. Solid Explorer File Manager - Rated 4.3 stars from 150,000 reviewers; features a dual-pane layout, cloud storage integration, file management across various storage options, batch renaming, and AES encryption. 2. Cashew - Expense Budget Tracker - Rated 4.8 stars; provides visual representations of spending, tracks subscriptions, and securely backs up data via Google Drive. 3. RunPee - Rated 4.7 stars with over 500,000 downloads; notifies users of optimal restroom break moments during movies and provides summaries of missed scenes. 4. Orbot: Tor for Android - Rated 4.0 stars; connects users to the Tor network for enhanced online privacy and allows for device-wide or app-specific encryption. 5. Libby, the Library App - Rated 4.8 stars; connects users to their local library's digital collection for borrowing eBooks and audiobooks, supports offline reading, and integrates with Kindle devices. 6. Image Toolbox - Edit & Convert - Rated 4.7 stars; offers photo editing capabilities, file format conversions, and an OCR feature for text extraction. 7. MacroDroid - Device Automation - Rated 4.4 stars; allows users to create custom automation workflows with over 80 triggers and 100 actions. 8. Hermit - Lite Apps Browser - Rated 4.6 stars; enables the creation of lightweight web-based applications with features like ad blocking and dark mode. 9. Bitwarden Password Manager - Rated 4.8 stars; provides secure password management with end-to-end encryption and syncing across devices. 10. ReadEra - Book Reader PDF EPUB - Rated 4.8 stars; supports various document formats, offers an ad-free reading experience, and includes features like bookmarks and text-to-speech.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Android Photo Frame App Infects Devices With Malware, Allows Full Remote Takeover

A recent investigation revealed significant security vulnerabilities in Android-powered digital photo frames, particularly those using the Uhale app (version 4.2.0). These vulnerabilities allow preinstalled applications to autonomously download and execute malware, granting remote attackers complete control of the device without user interaction. The malware is sourced from infrastructure linked to China, with domains like dc168888888.com and webtencent.com distributing malicious content. Many antivirus applications inadequately detect these threats. The Uhale app has high-risk vulnerabilities, including insecure HTTPS trust management and insufficient input validation, enabling remote code execution with root access. Brands associated with Uhale include BIGASUO, Canupdog, Euphro, and others. Exploits can lead to data exfiltration, access to private photos, and further attacks within home and enterprise environments. Technical oversights include outdated Android 6 firmware, disabled SELinux, weak cryptographic protections, and lack of authentication for incoming file transfers. Compromised frames can serve as surveillance tools or points for data exfiltration, posing risks to both home and enterprise networks. Users are advised to disconnect affected frames and monitor for unusual behavior.

AppWizard

November 12, 2025

Android phones to warn users about apps draining battery from March 2026

Google will implement a new system on 1 March 2026 to help Android users identify apps that drain battery life. Developers will be required to label apps that consume high amounts of power due to background activity. Apps categorized as heavy battery consumers will be removed from Play Store recommendations. Certain apps, such as those for audio playback or ride-hailing, may be exempt from these restrictions. Google will set metrics to define acceptable background activity levels and limit how often apps can use "wake locks." Developers exceeding this limit will be notified and may face reduced visibility or removal from the Play Store.

AppWizard

November 11, 2025

Android phone users may soon get a ‘battery’ warning before downloading these apps

Android users will soon see a red warning badge on the Google Play Store indicating that an app “may use more battery than expected.” This feature, developed with Samsung, targets apps that misuse “partial wake locks,” which can lead to significant battery drain. The update introduces a metric to monitor “excessive partial wake locks,” flagging apps that maintain over two cumulative hours of non-exempt wake locks in a 24-hour period. If at least 5% of an app’s user sessions exceed this threshold over 28 days, it will be marked as a battery drain culprit. Starting March 1, 2026, such apps will have reduced visibility in the Play Store and will display a red warning label about high background activity and potential battery drain. This initiative aims to improve battery performance and encourage developers to optimize their apps.

AppWizard

November 9, 2025

12 apps I urge non-techies to install on their Android phones

The preinstalled Android apps on smartphones may not meet the needs of all users, especially those who are less tech-savvy. Alternative apps can enhance the smartphone experience. TeamViewer allows remote troubleshooting by connecting to others' devices for assistance. Vivaldi offers a customizable browsing experience with ad-blocking and privacy features, while Microsoft Edge is a good option for Windows users. Google Wallet simplifies mobile payments and serves as a digital wallet for various cards. Nobook is a lightweight alternative to the Facebook app, providing faster load times and a streamlined experience. Bitwarden is a password manager that securely stores passwords with one master password, promoting the use of complex passwords. Google Authenticator provides multi-factor authentication by storing 2FA codes securely. Localsend facilitates large file transfers over Wi-Fi networks. Google Photos offers 15GB of free storage for image backup, and Google Gallery helps manage images easily. Tubular provides an ad-free YouTube experience, while Files by Google simplifies file management with categorization and a secure Safe Folder. Gboard enhances typing efficiency with features like autocomplete and swipe typing.

AppWizard

October 28, 2025

Readers Share Favorite Android Apps of 2025

Users have been asked to identify the best Android app that has integrated into their daily lives in 2025, amidst a competitive landscape with hundreds of billions of global downloads. Key characteristics of standout apps include reliability, simplicity, and the ability to fill existing gaps without unnecessary complexities. Privacy is a major concern, with users encouraged to scrutinize app permissions and seek transparency in business models. Cross-device compatibility is increasingly important, especially with the rise of tablets and foldable devices. Notable apps mentioned include: - Octopi Launcher: Favored for its widget-rich interface and tag-based search. - LocalSend: Allows direct file transfers across local networks without accounts or cloud services. - Banana Browser: Known for its minimalist design and built-in media controls. - Niagara Launcher: Celebrated for its minimalist, one-handed design. - Organic Maps: Provides efficient offline navigation using OpenStreetMap. - RethinkDNS: Blocks trackers and enforces on-device firewall rules. - Obsidian: A note-taking app known for its vault-style organization and cross-device syncing. When choosing an app, users should assess transparency in the business model, data export options, and app permissions. Performance in real-world scenarios, such as offline functionality and multitasking, is also important. Users are encouraged to share their top app recommendations to help others enhance their Android experience.

AppWizard

October 27, 2025

What is your favorite Android app you discovered in 2025?

The Android app ecosystem offers a wide range of applications for various digital needs, including identifying bird calls, managing household chores, and providing real-time hurricane updates. In 2025, notable apps include Octopi Launcher, which is designed for foldable and multi-screen devices and features a tile mode, intelligent widget stacking, and a tagging system. LocalSend simplifies file transfers across multiple devices, proving efficient and user-friendly. Banana Browser enhances the mobile video viewing experience with its built-in media player and user-friendly interface, making it a strong alternative to Chrome.