Google Keep Archives

AppWizard

March 19, 2026

New Android malware hiding in streaming apps to spy on users’ personal notes

Researchers have discovered a sophisticated malware called Perseus that targets Android users by disguising itself within television streaming applications to steal sensitive information, including passwords and banking details. This malware, reported by ThreatFabric, primarily affects users in Turkey and Italy and is based on the leaked code of previous Android banking trojans, particularly Cerberus. Perseus masquerades as IPTV service apps, often downloaded from unofficial sources, and employs overlay attacks and keylogging techniques to capture user credentials. It specifically targets personal note-taking applications like Google Keep, Evernote, and Simple Notes to extract sensitive information stored within them. The malware landscape is evolving, with new threats like the banking trojan Herodotus and the Crocodilus variant, which can manipulate contact lists. Users are advised to be cautious when downloading applications from unofficial sources.

AppWizard

March 11, 2026

I wish more people knew about this free, open-source note-taking app

Megan Ellis from Android Authority explored productivity apps, highlighting the challenge of balancing features and user privacy. Notesnook emerged as a notable option, offering a free plan with multi-device syncing and user privacy. It includes features like a rich-text editor, reminders, and organizational tags without relying on third-party cloud services. Users can self-host if desired, and the app is open-source and compatible with major platforms. The free plan has limitations, such as compressed images, a cap on colors, tags, notebooks, and reminders, while paid plans offer additional features and higher limits. Notably, Notesnook has shown increased permissiveness in its offerings over time, contrasting with trends in the app market.

AppWizard

February 28, 2026

Six Google Apps Emerge As Irreplaceable On Android

Many Android users seek alternatives to default applications, but six Google apps are deemed indispensable due to their speed, reliability, and integration. Google Keep allows for quick note-taking with features like labels, checklists, and real-time syncing across devices, boasting over 1 billion installs. The Google app serves as a central hub for various functions, providing seamless integration that enhances the Android experience. Google Maps excels as a navigation and discovery tool, with over 10 billion installs and features like offline maps and user-generated content. Android Auto offers a user-friendly interface for driving, becoming a standard feature in new vehicles. Google Photos backs up images effortlessly, with over 5 billion installs, and provides powerful search capabilities. NotebookLM allows users to input documents and web clippings for research, functioning as a research assistant. These six apps stand out for their unique combination of speed, scale, and integration, making them essential for Android users.

AppWizard

February 19, 2026

Google Keep gets ready to follow Drive and Docs with this new UI look

Google is updating the floating action button (FAB) design in Google Keep to align with its Material 3 Expressive design language. The new design will feature a larger, more visually striking FAB with an × symbol in a circular design, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. This update is currently in version 5.26.071.01 for Android, but has not yet been activated for users. Developers are preparing for the rollout, although some anticipated features may not be included in the final public release.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

Here’s why I ditched the ‘everything app’ and switched back to Google Keep

Megan Ellis transitioned from Notion back to Google Keep, seeking simplicity and focus in her digital life. She initially chose Google Keep for its straightforwardness but later moved to Notion for advanced features, which led to overwhelm due to its complexity and extensive customization options. This complexity resulted in unnecessary tracking and clutter, prompting her return to Google Keep, where she appreciates its minimalist design and ease of use. While she values the simplicity of Google Keep, she misses the personalization and advanced features that Notion provided. Ellis advises that the decision to switch productivity tools depends on individual needs and preferences, emphasizing that some may prefer the all-in-one capabilities of Notion while others benefit from a minimalist approach.

AppWizard

January 26, 2026

Digital minimalist: 5 apps I recommend for a clutter-free experience

Many users are shifting towards a minimalist approach in app selection due to the overwhelming complexity of digital tools. Google Keep is regaining popularity for its straightforward design, allowing users to take notes without a steep learning curve and offering basic file management, reminders, and integration with Google Tasks. Niagara Launcher simplifies the user experience by displaying only the five most-used apps on the home screen, encouraging mindful usage and reducing distractions, while maintaining a monochrome theme for enhanced focus. Microsoft To Do balances simplicity and functionality in task management, allowing task creation, due dates, reminders, and custom lists without clutter or subscription fees. Simplenote is favored for long-form writing due to its distraction-free interface and built-in tagging system, making it easy to manage documents, and it is entirely free. Feedly requires initial setup to curate a personalized news feed but offers a clutter-free experience that focuses on user interests, with a free plan that provides ample features.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Essential Apps to Install First on Your New Android Phone

Google's Find My Device app is essential for Android phone users, providing security features such as locating a misplaced phone, playing a sound, and remotely locking or erasing data. The app's integration with Android has improved tracking accuracy and introduced features like offline finding and compatibility with Bluetooth trackers. Other recommended apps for a well-rounded Android setup include Bitwarden for password management, Solid Explorer for file management, Google Keep for note-taking, and Signal for secure messaging. Productivity apps like Microsoft’s SwiftKey keyboard and Todoist for task management are also highlighted. Customization options include Nova Launcher, while performance optimization can be achieved with Greenify. Privacy-focused tools include DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser and Authy for two-factor authentication. Emerging trends suggest increased AI integration in apps and innovations for foldable devices. Regular maintenance apps like CCleaner and update managers are recommended for long-term device health.

AppWizard

December 24, 2025

4 Essential Android Smartwatch Apps You Should Always Install First

Google Gemini's Wear OS app is a successor to Google Assistant, offering voice control, AI-driven reasoning, and automation for tasks like checking the weather, sending messages, and managing smart home devices. It enhances fitness app management, allowing users to control workouts without touching the device. Gemini integrates with Google services for real-time health inquiries and improves email productivity by summarizing and drafting responses. Google Keep is a note-taking app that allows text and voice input for capturing ideas and creating lists on an Android smartwatch. It features quick access through watch tiles and complications but lacks full editing capabilities. Strava is a fitness tracking app that allows users to monitor activities directly from their smartwatch, using built-in GPS to log routes and metrics. It syncs data to the mobile app after workouts, though social features are limited on the watch. SleepisolBio is a sleep management app that tracks heart rate and sleep patterns, offering therapy options and personalized recommendations. It operates on a freemium model, providing many features for free, but requires smartphone setup for effective use on a smartwatch.

AppWizard

December 3, 2025

Google just killed a key Home app feature, and parents are going to miss it

Google has removed the "Call Home" button from the Google Home app, a feature introduced in 2019 that allowed users to connect with their smart displays from smartphones. This change disrupts communication for many users, particularly parents, who relied on it to check in on their children. The only alternative now is to use Google Meet, which requires setting up unique Google accounts for each device, making it cumbersome. Google has not provided a clear explanation for the removal, and users are left uncertain about the future of the "Call Home" feature.

AppWizard

November 13, 2025

Google Ends Pixel 10 Exclusivity for Journal App in New Feature Drop

Google has extended the availability of its Journal app to users of the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 series, in addition to the Pixel 10, as announced during the November 2025 Feature Drop. The app is currently exclusive to these devices and will not be available on non-Pixel smartphones. The Journal app functions as a personal digital diary and utilizes Google's advanced AI technology, Gemini Nano. Older models like the Pixel 7 cannot access the app due to hardware limitations. The November 2025 Feature Drop also includes notification summaries, Scam Detection for Pixel 6 and newer models in the U.S., and a “Wicked: For Good” theme with custom design elements.