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Android 17 hits a major milestone as Google releases its last 'scheduled' beta
AppWizard
April 17, 2026

Android 17 hits a major milestone as Google releases its last ‘scheduled’ beta

Google has released Android 17 beta 4, the final beta version before the anticipated mid-2026 launch. This update, with build number CP21.260330.008, is available for Pixel devices from Pixel 6 to Pixel 10 and focuses on stability rather than new features. A key addition is 'App memory limits' to manage RAM usage and improve performance, particularly for foldable phones and tablets. Developers are required to optimize apps for Android 17, ensuring compatibility with new features. The beta update is rolling out via the Android Beta Program, with stable Android 17 expected later this year. Users can sideload the update or manually flash the factory image if they haven't received it.
I don't recognize the Android I fell in love with anymore
AppWizard
March 21, 2026

I don’t recognize the Android I fell in love with anymore

In 2010, the author purchased a Samsung Galaxy 5, which introduced them to the Android ecosystem characterized by freedom, openness, and choice. By 2026, the Android platform had evolved significantly, with restrictions on sideloading impacting the author's nostalgic view of the system. The early 2010s were marked by diverse hardware innovations, such as microSD expansion and customizable features, alongside software freedom that allowed for extensive customization and app installations. Over time, Android transitioned to a more structured ecosystem focused on user safety, reflecting the need to protect personal information. The author acknowledges the trade-off between openness and security, recognizing the importance of safeguarding users, even if it means accepting a more restrictive environment.
Android 17 Fixes Long-Standing App Orientation Frustrations
AppWizard
February 18, 2026

Android 17 Fixes Long-Standing App Orientation Frustrations

Android 17 Beta 1 has launched for Pixel phones, introducing significant changes in app orientation and resizability restrictions. It eliminates the option for developers to opt-out of these restrictions on larger screens (width greater than 600 dp), disregarding five specific attributes and APIs for applications on large screens or games. This aims to improve user experience on Android tablets, foldable phones, and Chromebooks, addressing issues with apps that lock into a single orientation. Developers must adapt their applications to comply with the new standards set by SDK 37, ensuring compatibility with the phase-out of certain manifest attributes and runtime APIs from Android 16. Users will retain control over their app experience through aspect ratio settings. The upcoming Aluminum OS will require Android applications to operate seamlessly in landscape mode, indicating a push for a more unified Android experience.
Android 17 improves the camera experience and apps for foldables and tablets
AppWizard
February 12, 2026

Android 17 improves the camera experience and apps for foldables and tablets

Google announced plans for the beta release of Android 17, which has been delayed without official clarification. Key features of Android 17 include a new policy for app orientation and size, requiring developers to support resizing and windowed multitasking. The update will also introduce professional-grade camera APIs, support for Versatile Video Coding (VVC), integration of VoIP calls into the built-in dialer, enhanced Wi-Fi ranging capabilities, and new profiles for Fitness Trackers and Medical Devices. Improvements for Android XR devices will enhance app responsiveness and display state changes. Additional beta versions will be released in the coming months, with developer stability expected by March 2026 and a stable release anticipated around June 2026, initially for Pixel devices. One UI 9, based on Android 17, is expected to debut with the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 in June 2026.
Android 17 Beta 1 is here with major updates for adaptive apps, performance, and media
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Android 17 Beta 1 is here with major updates for adaptive apps, performance, and media

Google has unveiled Android 17 Beta 1, targeting developers with enhancements for app adaptability and performance. Key features include: - Mandatory app adaptability for devices with a minimum width of 600dp, requiring support for resizing and windowed multitasking. - Introduction of professional-grade camera APIs for smoother mode transitions in camera apps. - Access to metadata from all active physical camera sensors. - Enhanced audio controls for normalizing loudness and support for Versatile Video Coding (VVC). - Performance improvements, privacy and security enhancements, and connectivity updates affecting VoIP calls. - New profiles for “Medical Devices” and “Fitness Tracker” to simplify application setup. - A new engagement mode for extended reality devices. Android 17 is set to follow a release schedule similar to Android 16, with Platform Stability targeted for March 2026 and the first major stable release expected in Q2 2026. Eligible Pixel devices for the Android 17 Beta 1 update include Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro, and 10 Pro Fold.
This new foldable phone could be a game changer for photographers
BetaBeacon
January 7, 2026

This new foldable phone could be a game changer for photographers

Motorola has unveiled the Razr Fold, its first book-style foldable phone with proper stylus support, making it the only flagship foldable in the US market with dedicated stylus capability. The phone has a 6.6-inch display when closed and an 8.1-inch screen when opened. It also features a main sensor, ultra-wide lens, telephoto lens, external selfie camera, internal camera, and can record video in Dolby Vision. The Razr Fold is expected to launch in the summer with pricing yet to be announced.
Google announces best apps and games of 2025 on Play Store in India
AppWizard
November 19, 2025

Google announces best apps and games of 2025 on Play Store in India

On November 18, 2025, Google announced the top apps and games on the Play Store in India for the year, highlighting a trend of increasing reliance on AI-enhanced applications, with 69% of Indian users encountering AI through mobile apps. The app District: Movies Events Dining was named ‘Best App of 2025,’ and CookieRun India: Running Game was awarded ‘Best Game of 2025.’ Notable mentions included invideo AI: AI Video Generator as Best for Personal Growth and Toonsutra: Webtoon & Manga App as Best Hidden Gem. Other recognized apps included Goodnotes: Notes, docs, PDF as Best App for Large Screens, Luminar: Photo Editor as Best Multi-device App, The Daily Planner: To Do List Task as Best Everyday Essential, and SleepisolBio: sleep, alarm as Best for Watches app. The Top Trending category featured Instamart: 10 Mins Grocery App, Seekho: Short Learning Videos, and Adobe Firefly: AI Generator. The Play and Android ecosystem contributed over ₹4 trillion to India's economy and created over 3.5 million jobs. In gaming, CookieRun India: Running Game was also recognized as Best Pick Up and Play game, Free Fire Max as Best Ongoing Game, Kamala, Horror Exorcism Escape as Best Indie Game, Real Cricket Swipe as Best Made in India game, and Disney Speedstorm as Best Multi-device Game.
Google’s Android app is already getting prepared for Samsung’s ‘tri-fold’ phone
AppWizard
October 29, 2025

Google’s Android app is already getting prepared for Samsung’s ‘tri-fold’ phone

Samsung is set to introduce a tri-fold smartphone featuring three interconnected panels and a flexible screen, which could redefine the smartphone experience. Recent findings from an APK teardown of the Google app revealed that this device, labeled “2025 Samsung Trifold,” is included in a list of devices eligible for Google’s premium Gemini AI features. The tri-fold design allows for seamless transitions between phone-sized, widescreen, and tablet modes, enhancing multitasking and entertainment capabilities. Samsung's hardware teasers at international events have heightened anticipation for a potential launch in 2025, although details regarding the final name and availability remain uncertain.
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