The Game Booster Plus update brings new features to the Galaxy S26 series, including Gamepad Touch Mapping, AP clock limitation, and Game Intro Fast-Forward. The update enhances gaming performance through GPU customization.
Spotify users are experiencing issues with locally stored tracks disappearing from playlists when accessed through Android Auto, despite these tracks remaining intact on their devices and functioning normally within the Spotify app. This problem has been reported by multiple users, indicating a potential communication issue between Spotify and Android Auto. Additionally, album art on the Android Auto screen is also missing, although it appears correctly in the task widget. Standard troubleshooting methods have not resolved the issue, and there is no acknowledgment or solution provided by either Spotify or Google. This situation coincides with ongoing connectivity issues and bugs affecting Android Auto, leading to user frustration. The root cause of the problem—whether it lies with Spotify or Android Auto—remains unclear.
Google has introduced early beta features for Android aimed at enhancing task-centric capabilities through an "agent-first" operating system. The key component is AppFunctions, a Jetpack API that allows developers to expose self-describing capabilities within their applications for seamless interaction with AI agents while prioritizing user privacy and performance by executing tasks on-device. AppFunctions operates similarly to backend capabilities declared via MCP cloud servers but runs locally on the device. Additionally, a UI automation platform has been introduced to assist users in performing complex tasks without requiring developer input. This platform allows users to complete tasks like placing pizza orders or coordinating rideshares through the Gemini Assistant. Privacy and user control are emphasized, with all interactions designed for on-device execution and mandatory confirmations for sensitive tasks. Currently, these features are in early beta and available exclusively on the Galaxy S26 series, with plans for broader deployment in Android 17.
Smartphones are becoming larger and more visually appealing, but this trend can hinder one-handed usability. Quick Cursor is an app available on the Google Play Store that introduces a floating cursor to enhance one-handed operation. Users can activate the cursor by swiping inward from the lower half of the screen, allowing for easier interaction with UI elements located higher up. The app overlays a cursor that can be controlled with tap and swipe actions, and it requires access to Android's accessibility service for setup. Quick Cursor operates on a freemium model, offering basic functionality for free, with additional features available through a subscription or one-time purchase. It provides a more fluid experience compared to Android's built-in one-handed mode, making it easier to navigate larger smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL.
Many individuals experience their personal space being invaded when friends or family members explore their smartphones. To safeguard against this, the Privacy Display feature on the Galaxy S26 Ultra can be used, along with a lesser-known Android feature that enhances privacy. When sharing a phone, the app pinning feature can lock a specific application in place, preventing unauthorized navigation and maintaining control over what is displayed on the screen. This tool helps ensure privacy while allowing for shared experiences.
The Gemini screen automation feature is now available on the Pixel 10 series in the U.S., following its launch on the Galaxy S26. This feature allows users to automate tasks such as ordering food, booking rides, and arranging grocery deliveries. Free users can make approximately five requests per day, while Ultra subscribers can make up to 120 requests daily. The feature can be activated by holding the power button or using the "Hey Google" command, guiding users through tasks with real-time updates. It supports applications like Lyft, Uber, Uber Eats, Grubhub, DoorDash, and Starbucks, and can ask follow-up questions during the ordering process.
An array of Android game and app deals is currently available, featuring titles such as Black Border 3 (.50, down from ), Guardian War: Ultimate Edition (free, down from ), Live or Die: Survival Pro (free, down from ), and The House of Da Vinci 3 (, down from ). The unlocked Pixel 10 Pro XL is discounted by 6 (Best Buy open-box) or 0 off brand new. Galaxy Buds 4 are available for when purchased with the Galaxy S26+/Ultra, representing an 8 discount off the Pro set. Additional app price drops include Ash of Gods: Redemption (, down from ), Zombie Age 3 Premium: Survival (free, down from ), and various icon packs available for free. The unlocked Pixel 10 Pro Fold is also offered at a 0 discount off the new list price (Best Buy open-box).
Google has announced that connected display support for Android has reached general availability with the release of Android 16 QPR3. This feature allows compatible Android phones and foldable devices to initiate a new desktop session on an external display while maintaining the phone's independent state. Supported devices include the Pixel 8, 9, and 10 series, as well as various Samsung devices like the Galaxy S26, Fold7, Flip7, and Tab S11. The collaboration between Google and Samsung has been crucial in developing this feature.
The Android 16 QPR3 release has refined windowing behaviors, taskbar interactions, and input compatibility for mouse and keyboard usage. It introduced two new width window size classes: Large (1200dp to 1600dp) and Extra-large (1600dp and above) to assist developers in creating adaptive layouts. Navigation 3 has also been released, providing a system for managing UI flow based on Scenes.
Design principles for desktop contexts have been updated, emphasizing the importance of multitasking, efficient use of screen space, and accommodating various input types. The Android Design Gallery has been launched to showcase design examples across different categories and input types.
The announcement has implications for mobile advertising and app measurement, as the distinction between mobile and desktop ad inventory becomes more complex. Developers are advised to ensure their apps can adapt to changes in display configurations to maintain ad performance and measurement accuracy.
Key dates include the announcement of connected display general availability on March 3, 2026, and the launch of the Android Design Gallery on March 16, 2026.
- Audio Eraser in the Gallery app allows users to adjust audio categories in videos
- The feature was upgraded in the Galaxy S26 series to support third-party apps
- Users can adjust audio categories such as voices, music, noise, and crowd for desired effect
- The feature can help in hearing dialogue clearly in TV shows and may be helpful for people who are hard of hearing
- Audio Eraser is becoming a favorite feature on Samsung's latest flagships
Google has rolled out its Gemini screen automation feature on the Galaxy S26, allowing users to execute commands within a virtual window on the device. Free account users have a daily limit of 5 requests, while Google AI Plus subscribers can make 12 requests for .99, AI Pro members can make 20 requests for .99, and Google AI Ultra subscribers can make 120 requests for .99. The screen automation feature supports services like Lyft, Uber, GrubHub, DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Starbucks. It is currently available on the Galaxy S26 series in the US and Korea, with support for Pixel 10 devices coming soon.