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Chrome for Android has windows, and they're better than tab groups for multitasking
AppWizard
October 3, 2026

Chrome for Android has windows, and they’re better than tab groups for multitasking

Chrome for Android supports the use of windows, allowing users to open multiple windows, each with its own tabs while sharing bookmarks and settings. Users can open an unlimited number of windows, which appear distinctly in Android's Recents screen. To open a new window on slab-style phones, users activate split-screen mode, tap the three-dot menu icon, and select "New window." For foldable phones, users can skip the split-screen step. Tabs can be moved between windows using the three-dot menu icon. All open windows can be managed through the Recents multitasking screen, where users can assign names or close them. This window functionality enhances multitasking and organization, making mobile browsing more akin to a desktop experience. Other browsers like Samsung Internet and Microsoft Edge have adopted similar features, while Firefox has not.
Android Auto bug is preventing calls from closed foldable phones
AppWizard
September 29, 2026

Android Auto bug is preventing calls from closed foldable phones

Motorola and Google are addressing an issue with Android Auto affecting users of clamshell foldable devices, specifically that outgoing calls cannot be made while the phones are closed. Incoming calls can be received without issues, but attempts to make outgoing calls result in no connection. This problem has been reported by owners of Motorola Razr and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip devices and appears to have arisen after the transition from Google Assistant to the new Gemini system. Reports of this malfunction have been ongoing for several months, with some claims dating back to September. No definitive solution has been announced yet, and users may need to keep their devices open to make calls while driving.
These Are The Best Android Launchers You Must Try In 2026
AppWizard
August 17, 2026

These Are The Best Android Launchers You Must Try In 2026

Smart Launcher 6 automatically categorizes apps into groups such as games, messaging, and tools, has over 50 million downloads, and offers features like a customizable news reader and font changes. Niagara Launcher features a minimalist design with an alphabetical list of apps optimized for one-handed use, fluid animations, and extensive customization options without ads. Octopi Launcher uses tags for app organization, offers auto-scrolling widget stacks, and allows for tailored layouts for portrait and landscape orientations, with a one-time payment for additional functionalities. Lawnchair replicates the Google Pixel launcher experience, supports Material You theming, is open-source, free of ads, and actively maintained on GitHub. Kvaesitso focuses on search functionality for quick access to apps, contacts, and files, is ad-free, operates independently of Google Play services, and is designed for a streamlined, productivity-focused experience.
This underrated Samsung feature is the first thing I set up on any new Android phone... except Pixels
AppWizard
July 11, 2026

This underrated Samsung feature is the first thing I set up on any new Android phone… except Pixels

The taskbar feature at the bottom of the screen enhances user experience on tablets and foldable phones, allowing quick access to frequently used applications. This feature is also available on regular non-folding smartphones, such as Samsung and Motorola devices, where users can enable and customize a side panel known as the Sidebar or Edge Panel. On Samsung devices, users can download the Good Lock app and install the Home Up module to activate the Edge Panel, which offers customization options for quick access to apps, contacts, and shortcuts. The upcoming One UI 9 update is expected to introduce more customization options for the Edge Panel. Motorola users can enable a similar sidebar feature through Settings > Gestures > Sidebar. OnePlus users can find it under Settings > Accessibility & convenience > Smart Sidebar. Pixel smartphones lack a built-in sidebar feature, with users relying on third-party applications to replicate this functionality. The closest alternative on Pixel devices is the App Bubbles feature for multitasking, but it does not provide the same experience as a dedicated sidebar.
Android 17 'sneak peek' at a foldable gaming mode has my attention—and then some
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Android 17 ‘sneak peek’ at a foldable gaming mode has my attention—and then some

Mishaal Rahman, an employee at Google, revealed that Android 17 will feature a new foldable gaming mode designed to enhance gameplay on foldable devices. This mode will split the screen, displaying the game on the top half and a customizable virtual gamepad on the lower half, equipped with buttons similar to those on PlayStation or Nintendo controllers. The gaming mode is set to launch with the Android 17 platform release in the coming months. Additionally, Android 17 includes a multitasking tool called "Bubbles" and is currently undergoing testing with QPR1 Beta 5, which addresses various fixes.
Google releases Android 17 update with foldable improvements, app bubbles, and more
AppWizard
June 17, 2026

Google releases Android 17 update with foldable improvements, app bubbles, and more

Google has released the stable version of Android 17 for all supported Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. Key features include: - App Bubbles for multitasking, allowing users to launch apps in floating windows. - Enhanced Picture-in-Picture mode for full interactivity in desktop environments. - Encouragement for developers to optimize apps for various screen orientations and sizes. - Implementation of app memory limits to improve performance and battery life. - A 50:50 split-screen mode for gaming on foldable phones and native controller remapping. - The Continue On feature for seamless task transitions between devices. - Improved privacy features, including temporary access to location data and a Mark As Lost feature. - Support for Eclipsa Video HDR format and enhanced audio quality through the Extended HE-AAC encoder. - Introduction of the RAW14 image format for better camera capabilities. - Enhanced support for Bluetooth Low Energy Audio, particularly for hearing aids.
Android 17 launched for Pixel smartphones: Key features and what is new in Google’s latest software
AppWizard
June 17, 2026

Android 17 launched for Pixel smartphones: Key features and what is new in Google’s latest software

Google has rolled out Android 17, with Pixel smartphones being the first to receive the update, while other eligible devices will gain access throughout 2026. The update emphasizes productivity, entertainment, and enhanced security. Key features include: - A revamped “Bubbles” feature for multitasking, allowing apps to be transformed into floating windows. - A dedicated “bubble bar” for larger devices to switch between apps easily. - An upgraded screen recording functionality with a “Screen Reactions” feature that captures video from the front-facing camera. - A “foldable gaming mode” optimizing performance for foldable phones, featuring a 50/50 split view for games and a dynamic gamepad. - Native controller remapping for external controllers and improved system memory cleanup to reduce frame drops during gaming. - A new “Mark as lost” feature in Find Hub for locking missing phones with biometric authentication. - Targeted privacy options for temporary app access to location and contacts. - Enhanced security features including limited PIN guesses and upgraded Live Threat Detection. - A built-in home screen setting to hide app names, dedicated volume controls for virtual assistants, expanded dark theme customization, and extended Parental Controls. - Strict app memory limits to enhance speed and battery life.
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