functionality Archives

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Not Google Maps, Not Waze: Here Are 5 Navigation App Alternatives For Android Auto

Users are exploring alternatives to Google Maps for navigation solutions, focusing on data privacy and unique features. Several apps have emerged, particularly for Android Auto users, based on feedback from the Google Play Store and evaluations. TomTom offers a free navigation app compatible with Android Auto, featuring turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic updates, offline maps, and a focus on privacy. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5. Sygic GPS Navigation includes turn-by-turn navigation, offline navigation, and live traffic alerts, but its full functionality requires a Premium+ subscription. It has a rating of 4.1 out of 5. OsmAnd provides extensive mapping capabilities with downloadable maps and turn-by-turn voice navigation, but Android Auto support requires a paid subscription. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5. Calimoto is designed for motorcycle riders, offering scenic route navigation and offline maps, with a premium subscription needed for full features. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5. MapQuest supports Android Auto and offers maps and navigation for the U.S. and Canada, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5, although it is still in beta and may have performance issues. The selection of these apps was based on their compatibility with Android Auto, user ratings of at least four out of five stars, and a combination of qualitative and quantitative data from user feedback.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Android Now Moves Passkeys Directly Between Password Managers

Android users can now transfer passwords and passkeys between supported password-manager applications without using export files. The transfer process starts in the receiving app, where Android identifies other installed password managers, allowing users to select and authorize specific data for transfer. This new functionality supports both passkeys and conventional passwords, taking only a few seconds to complete. Prominent password managers like Google Password Manager, 1Password, Bitwarden, and Dashlane support this feature, which is available on devices running Android 8 or later. The transfer mechanism maintains the security model of passkeys during authentication while facilitating the exchange between trusted managers. Recent research has identified potential vulnerabilities in synced Google passkeys, emphasizing the need for strong device security measures.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Android Auto Users Aren’t Happy With Gemini, And There Are Good Reasons Why

Google has introduced Gemini, an AI-powered assistant in a recent update to Android Auto, but user reception has been mixed, with many expressing dissatisfaction. Users report issues such as incorrect responses to queries, sluggish response times compared to the previous Google Assistant, and feelings of insecurity while driving due to Gemini's inconsistencies. Specific complaints include poor navigation, difficulty locating gas stations, inadequate Spotify integration, and the absence of features like weather updates. While many users have faced challenges, some have shared positive experiences with Gemini. Google is aware of the issues and is working on fixes. Users can revert to the previous Google Assistant if they prefer.

Winsage

September 14, 2026

This free PowerToys command bar replaces several Windows search features

Users can access a command line interface for searching Windows commands by entering the > symbol. The Command Palette's input bar in PowerToys opens after a customizable key combination. Typing "ping" and selecting 'Run' initiates a network check. Many users are using the Windows package manager, Winget, for software installations; typing "winget" and selecting 'Search for apps with Winget' allows exploration of available applications. To install a program like VLC, users enter the program name and select it from the results. The Command Palette also provides access to Windows settings by typing $ followed by the desired setting, such as "keyboard." Users can access the Registry Editor by typing : followed by the name of a registry folder, like "HKEYLocalMachineSoftwareMicrosoft." Typing ?? prompts a web search, launching the default browser to the preferred search engine.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Google rolls out Motion Assist bubbles to Pixel, Samsung

Google has introduced the Motion Assist feature for Pixel and Samsung devices running Android 17, designed to reduce motion sickness during travel. Users can activate it by searching for "motion assist" in the Settings app or through the Quick Settings editor on Pixel devices. The feature can automatically activate in moving vehicles, and users can add a Quick Settings Tile for manual control. Once enabled, it displays two columns of shapes on the screen. Customization options include color, shape, opacity, and randomization. Motion Assist is available on all Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy (Fold 8 series) devices with Android 17, and users should restart their phones if the feature does not appear. The bubbles require version 26.33.32 of Google Play services.

Winsage

September 14, 2026

Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 update breaks audio on some PCs, but there is a workaround

Microsoft's September security update for Windows 11, KB5124008, is causing audio issues with USB audio devices, including unresponsive sound controls and lack of audio output. The problems are linked to USB Audio Class 1.0 devices and do not affect built-in motherboard audio codecs or wireless headsets. Users may see an error message “This device cannot start (Code 10)” in Device Manager logs. Microsoft is working on a fix, and users can temporarily switch to stereo settings for relief. Additionally, the update is causing gameplay disruptions, crashes, and other bugs, prompting users to report issues to Microsoft and consider pausing updates.

Winsage

September 14, 2026

Microsoft patches Windows and Excel – breaks audio, remote access, and paste

Microsoft's recent security updates have caused disruptions in several areas: 1. Remote Desktop Services (RDS): Users on Windows 11 26H1 and Windows Server 2012 are experiencing connectivity issues, including failed connections, freezing servers, and unresponsive tools like Microsoft Management Console (MMC). A temporary solution involves restarting the virtual machine, and Microsoft is working on a fix. 2. USB Audio Devices: Problems have been reported with USB Audio Class 1.0 devices on Windows 11 26H1, 25H2, and 24H2, leading to audio issues. A workaround includes switching to two-channel mode, and Microsoft is addressing the situation. 3. Excel Functionality: A fix for vulnerabilities in Excel has disrupted the paste operation across versions 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2024, leaving users unable to paste content correctly. Some users have resolved the issue by uninstalling and reinstalling Office or using commands to remove the security update, though this also removes the associated security fixes.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

This keyboard app brings Pixel 11’s best feature to all Android phones

SwiftKey is introducing a new AI-driven voice typing feature in its beta version, inspired by Google's Rambler feature. This tool cleans up and formats speech but does not provide live transcription. The AI model is about 163MB and allows offline functionality on Android devices. Unlike Google's Rambler, which is exclusive to Pixel devices, SwiftKey's feature is available on a wider range of Android smartphones. Testing on a Galaxy Z Fold 8 showed efficient offline processing and transcription. However, it lacks features like tone adjustments, advanced text formatting, and emoji insertion through voice commands. The SwiftKey Beta app can be installed on any Android device and is available for download on the Google Play Store.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

How to Convert a Website or AI-Built Web App into a Play Store-Ready Android App in 2026

Native App AI simplifies the process of converting websites or AI-generated web apps into Android applications ready for the Play Store without needing to rebuild from scratch. It allows users to input a website URL, customize the app's features, and generate APK and AAB files for testing and publishing. The platform supports various features such as push notifications, AdMob monetization, deep linking, and custom branding. It also assists in preparing necessary information for Google Play, ensuring compliance with policies and technical requirements. This service is beneficial for SaaS companies, startups, e-commerce ventures, and creators who have existing web products.

Winsage

September 14, 2026

Microsoft confirms Windows 11’s update kills audio on some PCs, and the bugs keep piling up

Windows 11 update KB5124008, released on September 8, has caused significant audio issues for users, including failure of audio devices to initialize or produce sound, and problems with microphones and multichannel audio. The update is linked to Explorer.exe crashes, disruptions in File History backups, Remote Desktop difficulties, and GPU issues on certain AMD systems. Microsoft has acknowledged these problems and indicated that the audio issues primarily affect USB Audio Class 1.0 devices. Users may see error logs in Device Manager indicating "This device cannot start (Code 10)." A temporary workaround is to switch to a 2-channel mode, and wireless audio devices appear to be unaffected. Microsoft is working on a permanent solution.