Google Play store Archives

AppWizard

October 11, 2026

What’s the difference between Android Automotive and Google Built-In?

Car manufacturers are moving away from phone mirroring applications like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to adopt native infotainment systems, supported by Google's Android Automotive and Google Built-in software. General Motors (GM) has chosen Google Built-in since 2023, abandoning Android Auto. Google Built-in allows access to applications like Google Maps and the Google Play Store, and is used by sixteen automotive brands including Honda, Volvo, Chevy, Nissan, Ford, BYD, and Renault. Android Automotive is a customizable software solution for managing vehicle functions, while Google Built-in consists of licensed applications. Google is integrating advanced AI features, such as the Gemini chatbot, into its infotainment systems, enhancing capabilities like real-time traffic updates and voice-activated assistance. GM is also developing a proprietary AI assistant alongside integrating Gemini.

AppWizard

October 10, 2026

Why Alternative App Stores Are Gaining Popularity Among Android Power Users

An alternative app store allows users to access apps and games not available on official platforms like the Google Play Store, including older versions, regional apps, and open-source options. Types of alternative app stores include third-party Android stores, open-source platforms, modified APK stores, regional stores, free app stores, and game-focused stores. Users explore these stores for a broader selection of apps, including those restricted by geography. Alternative app stores can provide apps that Google Play does not, such as regional apps and modified applications. When choosing an alternative app store, users should consider the platform’s reputation, app descriptions, update frequency, security measures, and source verification. Alternative app stores differ from Google Play by offering more flexibility and access to unique content, though security and developer support may vary. Modified apps are altered versions that may offer enhanced features. Alternative app stores are important for overcoming regional barriers and providing ad-free experiences. They host a variety of apps, including multiple versions of a single application, and typically feature user-friendly search functionalities. Comprehensive app information is often available, including version data and permissions. Some stores focus on open-source and independent apps. The legality of using alternative app stores depends on licensing and local laws, and they often feature apps not found on Google Play. Many alternative stores provide multiple app versions, and only reliable ones may offer faster updates.

AppWizard

October 10, 2026

New Menu Added! Android’s “Google Play Store” Integrates Google Store

A new "Buy devices" menu has been integrated into the Android version of the "Google Play Store" app as of early October 2026, allowing users to access a curated selection of products from the "Google Store," primarily focusing on Google Pixel devices like the "Pixel 11" series and the "Google Pixel Watch 4 / 5." This feature follows earlier hints from Google in July 2025 and a temporary display in March 2026. The menu simplifies the purchasing process for these devices, although it does not include the entire range of products available on the "Google Store." The app also frequently features special offers on Google Pixel devices, with anticipation for future promotions related to the integration.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

WhatsApp Spotted Testing New Contacts Tab on Android

WhatsApp is testing a dedicated Contacts tab in its Android application, currently available in the beta version. This tab is integrated into the navigation bar and allows users direct access to their contact list, featuring a green dot indicator for online users. The new section includes birthday reminders with notifications and emojis, a search bar for locating contacts by name, phone number, or username, and sorting options for organizing the contact list by activity or alphabetically. Users who have disabled their "last seen/online" status will not appear as active.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

WhatsApp is creating a new Contacts tab in its app

WhatsApp is rolling out a dedicated Contacts tab in its Android app, currently in beta testing. The tab features a streamlined view of contacts, indicating online status with a green dot. It includes birthday reminders with notifications, an option to invite new users, a search bar for locating contacts, and sorting options by online activity or alphabetically. Contacts who have disabled their last seen status will not appear as online.

BetaBeacon

October 9, 2026

Monster Hunter Rise Releasing on iOS and Android Through Netflix

Monster Hunter Rise has new mobile-only features and improvements, including reconstructed touch controls, a new Recovery feature, and unlocked Challenge and Event quests through game progression.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Thousands of cheap Android phones shipped with ad-fraud malware

Researchers from Bitdefender have discovered that thousands of inexpensive Android devices are preloaded with malware called "Midnight Mimosa," which generates fraudulent advertising revenue. This malware is embedded in the device firmware before the first power-up, making it impossible for users to uninstall. It operates with system-level privileges, allowing it to install or remove applications without user consent and to download additional code. The malware primarily aims for financial gain through advertising and click fraud, while also gathering information about devices. Bitdefender has detected this malware on thousands of devices across over 150 countries, with the highest concentrations in Mexico, France, and Italy, followed by the United States, Germany, Brazil, and Spain. Many affected devices are low-cost, white-label, or counterfeit models, often sold online. The malware stealthily installs legitimate-looking applications that display ads in invisible windows, generating ad impressions without user awareness. Bitdefender identified at least 32 disguised applications and found 13 apps in the Google Play Store with similar ad-fraud code. The source of the malware remains unidentified, but some affected firmware was signed with certificates from Shenzhen Zediel, a Chinese company. The researchers suggest that the malware could have been introduced at various stages of the supply chain, potentially by manufacturers or intermediaries.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Amazon is gradually phasing out the Fire Tablet after 15 years: Why the return to Android?

Amazon has announced that it will cease the development of new Fire Tablets and will focus on the Alexa Tablet line, which runs on Android and supports the full Google Play store. The Fire Tablet line, which began with the original Kindle Fire in 2011, will no longer produce new generations, although existing devices will continue to receive security updates. The new Alexa Tablet series includes three models: the Alexa Tablet 8, Alexa Tablet 11, and Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, with prices starting at .99. The Alexa Tablets offer access to popular applications and features that cater to reading enthusiasts, as well as integration with Amazon's Alexa AI assistant. Additionally, Amazon is launching the Alexa Kids Tablet, which includes Google Play and parental controls. The transition reflects Amazon's strategy to enhance its tablet offerings and improve the overall user experience.

AppWizard

October 8, 2026

Amazon’s new Alexa Tablets drop the Fire branding but are more Android than ever

Amazon is rebranding its Fire tablets as Alexa Tablets, integrating full Android capabilities and allowing access to the Google Play Store. The new lineup includes three models: the Alexa Tablet 8 priced at , the Tablet 11 at 9, and the flagship Alexa Tablet 12 Pro starting at 9. The tablets feature unibody aluminum housings, a 16:10 display ratio for the first two models, and a 3:2 display ratio for the 12 Pro. The 12 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8400 processor, has 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, a resolution of 2800×1840, a 120 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 500 nits. Accessories include a keyboard for and a stylus for .

AppWizard

October 8, 2026

Amazon announces Alexa Tablets — An all-new line running full Android with the Google Play Store

Amazon has introduced a new lineup of tablets focused on the Alexa Plus experience, including the Alexa Tablet 8, Alexa Tablet 11, and Alexa Tablet 12 Pro, which run on Android 16 and provide access to the Google Play Store. The tablets feature: - Alexa Tablet 8: 8-inch display, resolution of 1340 x 800 at 60 Hz, storage options of 64 or 128 GB, powered by an 8-core MediaTek MT8189 CPU with 4 GB or 8 GB RAM. - Alexa Tablet 11: 11-inch display, resolution of 2560 x 1600 at 90 Hz, storage options of 64 or 128 GB, powered by an 8-core MediaTek MT8189 CPU with 8 GB RAM. - Alexa Tablet 12 Pro: 12-inch display, resolution of 2800 x 1840 at 120 Hz, available in glossy or Nanomatte finishes, storage options of 128 or 256 GB, powered by a MediaTek MT8793N CPU with 8 GB or 16 GB RAM. The 8- and 11-inch models support WiFi 6, while the 12-inch Pro model supports WiFi 6E. Pricing starts at .99 for the 8-inch and 11-inch models, and 9.99 for the 12-inch Pro model, with additional costs for ad removal and storage upgrades. Kids’ versions are also available, including a protective case and a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+. All tablets will ship on October 14 and be available in multiple countries, including the US, UK, Germany, Canada, Japan, France, Italy, Spain, and Australia.