Galaxy Archives

AppWizard

September 4, 2026

Google’s Scam Detection feature is expanding to even more Android brands

Google's Scam Detection feature, initially available only on Pixel devices, is expanding to more Android smartphones, currently accessible on the Galaxy S26 series and potentially coming to vivo phones. Recent findings from the Google Phone app's public beta indicate that Xiaomi may also support this feature, with the Xiaomi 18 Fold being a possible candidate for the initial rollout, although it is currently confirmed only for release in China. Google's Scam Detection uses on-device AI to analyze incoming calls for potential scams, aiming to enhance user security. The feature is still in beta and may have flaws, but improvements are expected as Google refines the technology.

BetaBeacon

September 3, 2026

Xiaomi’s Poco has a gaming phone with sub

The Poco F9 Ultra is a phone that stands out by offering a built-in subwoofer, two stereo speakers, and a game audio mode for gamers. It features a 6.9 inch 185Hz AMOLED screen and is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. The phone also includes three rear cameras, a massive 8050mAh battery, and will be available in Australia in a 512GB model with 16GB RAM for 9.

AppWizard

September 1, 2026

How to make sure your Android phone is secure

Android devices have various features to enhance security and privacy. A 2025 Pew Research Center study found that nearly 75% of Americans have faced online scams, which have become more sophisticated, including vishing scams using AI-generated deepfakes. Android offers tools to mitigate these risks, such as AI-driven scam detection and theft protection. To safeguard devices, users should keep their software updated by checking Settings > About Phone for the current version and navigating to Settings > System > Software Updates for updates. App updates can be managed through the Google Play Store under Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps. Securing Google accounts with two-factor authentication is recommended, which can be set up via the Google Account management page. Automatic backups can be enabled in Settings > Google > Backup. The Find Hub app helps track lost devices and can be configured in Settings > Location and Settings > Security. Android includes scam detection tools that alert users to potential scams in calls and texts, which can be activated in the Phone app settings. Privacy settings can be managed by adjusting app permissions in Settings > Apps and using the Permission manager in Security & Privacy. Users can opt out of data sharing with advertisers by navigating to Settings > Google > Ads. Google Play Protect scans for harmful apps and should remain enabled for safety. Theft protection features, such as Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock, can be activated in Settings > Google > Personal & device safety.

AppWizard

August 31, 2026

Game review: Star Wars Zero Company (PC)

Star Wars Zero Company is a turn-based strategy game set during the waning days of the Clone Wars, where players lead a mercenary unit called Zero Company, led by former Republic officer Tesh Hawks. The game features tactical gameplay reminiscent of the X-COM series, with players managing a squad and engaging in combat missions while also exploring an upgradeable hub called The Den. Players can choose between Operations and Tactical Missions, with character customization options available for generic recruits. The game includes a variety of missions and enemies from the Star Wars universe, including a notable antagonist, The Coil. It features a permadeath system, strategic gameplay that emphasizes positioning and cover, and a soundtrack inspired by the franchise. The game is developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm, EA Games, and Bit Reactor.

AppWizard

August 30, 2026

I want MMOs to waste our time again

The author revisited the MMO Star Wars Galaxies on a private server, experiencing its chaotic environment in Mos Eisley and reflecting on the game's charm despite its outdated graphics and minimal quests. The gameplay allowed for leisurely exploration and connection with other players, contrasting sharply with the fast-paced, task-oriented nature of modern MMOs like World of Warcraft. The author appreciated the freedom to engage with the game at their own pace, discovering player-created content and enjoying incidental interactions that evoke the essence of the MMO experience. The community surrounding Star Wars Galaxies continues to preserve its spirit, highlighting a sense of life and connection that is often lacking in contemporary MMOs.

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2026

AVG Antivirus Review 2026: Is the Free Version Enough?

AVG AntiVirus Free has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, with specific scores of 4.7 for protection, 4.3 for performance and features, and 3.5 for customer support. The software is available for free or can be purchased starting at .88 for the first year, with pricing verified in August 2026. It achieved a 99.77% malware detection rate with only four false alarms and offers features such as real-time protection and Ransomware Protection. However, customer support is rated lower, and there are upselling prompts after scans. AVG is owned by Gen Digital and has been in operation for over 35 years, originally founded as Grisoft in the Czech Republic. The free version includes essential features like File Shield, Behavior Shield, Web Shield, Email Shield, and Ransomware Protection, while some features like Enhanced Firewall and Fake Website Shield are exclusive to paid versions. AVG's performance on Windows 11 has been validated by independent tests, scoring 6/6/6 in AV-TEST and achieving a 96.3% offline detection rate in AV-Comparatives. The software is available across multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. AVG's customer support includes email and phone options, with a reasonable response time. The software is safe to install when downloaded from official sources, and it has been recognized for its effectiveness in malware detection.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

Galaxy Store Will Start Hiding Unverified Android Apps in September

Samsung has alerted developers using the Galaxy Store about upcoming changes due to Google's new Android Developer Verification (ADV) rules, which will take effect on September 30, 2026. Developers in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand must complete the verification process to avoid having their unverified apps removed from the Galaxy Store. The ADV process requires developers to authenticate their identities and register package names and signing certificates. Apps that are not verified will be hidden from search results and listings, affecting their visibility. Users may face difficulties reinstalling or updating existing apps until developers complete the verification, although previously installed apps will continue to function. Samsung is indicating the status of app binaries in the Seller Portal and will restrict new registrations and updates lacking ADV approval starting in September. Sideloading will still be possible for certain apps and through an advanced installation flow, while ADB installations will remain unchanged. The initial rollout is limited to specific countries, with a global expansion expected in 2027. Developers are encouraged to act quickly to maintain app visibility.

AppWizard

August 25, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: NARUTO, Endling, Farm Invasion, Kingdomino, more

An array of Android game and app deals is available, including NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja STORM, Endling: Extinction is Forever, Farm Invasion USA – Premium, Candleman, Last Day Survivors: Zombie TDS, Kingdomino Deluxe, and Minabo: A Walk Through Life. TCL’s 2026 Google AI TVs are discounted by up to 0, and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra bundles are offered at discounts of up to 0. The new Moto Tag 2 with UWB is priced as low as .50 each on Amazon.

AppWizard

August 24, 2026

The best Android weather app isn’t on the Play Store. Here’s how to install it

Breezy Weather is a free, open-source weather app for Android that is not available on the Play Store due to the developers' decision to avoid listing fees and personal identification requirements. To download Breezy Weather, users need to visit its GitHub page, download the APK file, and enable installation permissions on their device. Alternatively, users can download it from F-Droid, which is a Play Store alternative for free and open-source applications. Keeping Breezy Weather updated requires manual checks or enabling notifications for updates, while F-Droid offers a more seamless update process. Obtainium is a sideload manager that can simplify the update process by monitoring apps for new versions. Breezy Weather allows users to customize their experience with 50 different weather data sources and 13 widget options, providing extensive functionality without ads.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

Nintendo Switch eShop charts – August 22, 2026 – Tomodachi Life, Smash Bros., and Minecraft

The Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of August 22, 2026, show the following top-selling games: 1. Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream 2. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 3. Minecraft The complete list of top-selling games includes: - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Super Mario Party Jamboree - Pokemon FireRed - Nintendo Switch Sports - Rhythm Heaven Groove - Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Pokemon Legends: Z-A - Persona 5 Royal - Pokemon Legends: Arceus - GTA: The Trilogy - Pokemon LeafGreen - Super Mario Bros. Wonder - Super Mario Odyssey - Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 - Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury - Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe - Pokemon Violet - Stardew Valley - Splatoon 3 - Mario Party Superstars - Stray - Deltarune - Pokemon Scarlet - Pokemon Brilliant Diamond - Moonlight Peaks Download-only titles include: - Pokemon FireRed - Pokemon LeafGreen - Stardew Valley - Deltarune - Moonlight Peaks - Wobbly Life - The Lord of the Rings: War in the North – Legacy Edition - Disney Dreamlight Valley - Super Mario Galaxy 2 - The Oregon Trail - Super Mario Galaxy - Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game - Moss: The Forgotten Relic - Is This Seat Taken - Sonic Origins - Sally Face - The Jackbox Party Pack 3 - Date Everything - Grounded - Hollow Knight - Tiny Bookshop - Terraria - Hollow Knight: Silksong - Outer Wilds - Minecraft Dungeons - Kynseed - Hades - SpongeBob SquarePants: Krusty Cook-Off - Dispatch - Backyard Baseball Updates on the Nintendo eShop charts for both Switch 1 and Switch 2 are available.