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Alexa Tablet 12 Pro review: Amazon's premium tablet gets almost everything right
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Alexa Tablet 12 Pro review: Amazon’s premium tablet gets almost everything right

The Alexa Tablet features a home screen with shortcuts to Amazon services and a folder for essential Google applications. It is a fully functional Android tablet that allows downloads from the Play Store. The user interface includes widgets for recently accessed content and the Alexa+ app, and users can interact with Alexa via voice commands. The tablet has a vibrant display suitable for streaming and Dolby Atmos-supported speakers. Performance remains positive with additional apps, though some lack optimization for larger screens. Popular apps like Adobe's Lightroom and Google's suite are optimized for tablet use. The tablet supports multitasking with split view mode and runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 processor with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Battery life is claimed to be up to 16 hours, but initial testing shows around eight hours for mixed usage.
What's The Difference Between Android Auto And Android Automotive OS?
AppWizard
September 30, 2026

What’s The Difference Between Android Auto And Android Automotive OS?

CarPlay and Android Auto have transformed in-car infotainment by utilizing smartphones. Android Auto was launched by Google in 2015, allowing users to connect Android devices to their vehicle displays. It has evolved to support more applications, compatibility with major automotive brands, and wireless connectivity, focusing on minimizing distractions for drivers. Android Automotive is an operating system that runs directly on vehicle hardware, eliminating the need for a smartphone connection. It is an open-source platform that car manufacturers can customize. Automakers can license Google Automotive Services, which includes Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant, but are not required to do so. Android Automotive OS allows for direct communication with vehicle systems, enhancing user experience by enabling features like voice-activated climate control. Vehicles with Android Automotive OS are marketed as having "Google built-in" and include brands such as Polestar, Volvo, Chevrolet, and Ford. Android Automotive can receive over-the-air updates, while Android Auto is compatible with over 500 car models and requires an Android device running version 9.0 or higher. Android Auto allows seamless transfer of apps and media from smartphones and benefits from automatic updates.
I turned off these 8 Google Messages features, and the app is so much better now
AppWizard
September 28, 2026

I turned off these 8 Google Messages features, and the app is so much better now

Google Messages has evolved to include features such as read receipts, Gemini integration, typing indicators, and chat bubbles. Some users find these enhancements beneficial, while others view them as intrusive. The author disabled several features for a more streamlined experience, leading to less clutter and fewer distractions. The features disabled include: 1. Gemini Button: A floating icon for AI-assisted messaging, which can be disabled in Message settings. 2. Profile Sharing: Allows visibility of name and photo to contacts, with customizable privacy settings available. 3. Outgoing Message Sounds: Can be turned off to create a quieter messaging environment. 4. Floating Chat Heads (Bubbles): Can be disabled to avoid distractions and protect sensitive information. 5. Follow-Up Reminders: Prompts to respond to message threads, which can be turned off in Message settings. 6. Read Receipts and Typing Indicators: Create pressure to respond quickly and can be disabled in Message settings. 7. Sensitive Content Warnings: Can misidentify benign images and can be turned off for a smoother experience. 8. Smart Reply and Suggested Actions: Offers quick responses that may not fit all conversations and can be disabled. These adjustments have improved the author's messaging experience, allowing for more personal and less stressful interactions.
Forget new models — Gemini's working on what really matters: dark mode options
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

Forget new models — Gemini’s working on what really matters: dark mode options

The Gemini app for Android is introducing new features aimed at enhancing user experience. Upcoming updates include innovative dark mode controls that allow users to override their device's system settings, enabling them to choose their preferred mode specifically for Gemini. This feature will be exclusive to the Gemini app and will not affect other Google applications. Additionally, a notification history feature will be added, allowing users to archive and review past notifications via a bell icon in the app. Users will also be able to long-press notifications to open or remove them. These developments are part of version 17.61.19.sa.arm64 of the Google app for Android, although not all features may make it to the final version.
Google goes in-depth, and a bit NSFW, on Noto 3D emoji as Android rollout expands
AppWizard
September 18, 2026

Google goes in-depth, and a bit NSFW, on Noto 3D emoji as Android rollout expands

Google Design has introduced Noto 3D, expanding its use beyond Pixel devices. Each character in Noto 3D was hand-drawn and sculpted to maintain the essence of emojis while incorporating dimensionality. The design emphasizes "emotional clarity," focusing on preserving the "vibe" of each symbol through a blend of 3D elements and illustrative techniques. Research indicated that intricate details could hinder emotional processing, leading to a design choice of minimal facial geometry and limiting each emoji to three essential details for effective identity conveyance. The team also found that complete silhouettes enhance empathy in animal representations, prompting a shift from floating heads to full animal forms. Noto 3D is being rolled out across various Google applications, Android devices, and select partners, including Nothing, Lenovo, Xiaomi, OPPO, OnePlus, realme, vivo, iQOO, HONOR, TECNO, Infinix, itel, and Motorola.
Tap into the power of Gemini in Chrome on Android.
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Tap into the power of Gemini in Chrome on Android.

Gemini in Chrome has launched for all Android users in the U.S., offering features that enhance mobile browsing. It allows users to summarize long articles and answer inquiries about web pages, integrating with Google applications like Calendar and Keep. The Nano Banana feature enables image customization for a personalized browsing experience. Subscribers to AI Pro and AI Ultra can use the auto browse functionality to manage tasks like booking parking or organizing travel plans. Gemini in Chrome is designed with security in mind, detecting threats and requiring user confirmation for sensitive tasks. Users can access Gemini by tapping the icon or through the three-dot menu on their Android devices.
6 hidden Google apps you aren't using, but should be
AppWizard
August 10, 2026

6 hidden Google apps you aren’t using, but should be

YouTube Create is a free mobile video editor that offers features for creating videos for platforms like Instagram Reels, including filters, effects, and AI capabilities for editing. Snapseed is a free photo editing app with professional-grade features and a user-friendly interface, recently updated to include a camera mode. Google Opinion Rewards allows users to earn Play Store credit by completing short surveys. Action Blocks enables users to create customizable buttons for specific smartphone actions, aiding those who struggle with traditional navigation. Gallery is a minimalist photo management app that focuses on viewing images and videos without distractions. Google Lens is a versatile tool that identifies objects, extracts text, translates in real-time, and engages users in conversations about their surroundings.
Google's Terminal app is next in line for an icon makeover
AppWizard
August 7, 2026

Google’s Terminal app is next in line for an icon makeover

Android Canary 2608 has introduced a redesigned icon for Google’s Terminal app, featuring a modern, boxy aesthetic while retaining the classic “>” and “-” symbols. The new icon resembles the Google Sheets icon but uses a darker green palette. The existing Terminal icon has a nostalgic design with neon green symbols on a dark green backdrop. The redesign enhances visual appeal and integrates Terminal more seamlessly with other Google applications, though the app's functionality remains unchanged. There is currently no timeline for the broader rollout of the new icon.
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