Google services Archives

AppWizard

May 25, 2025

Google App launches ‘Activity’ tab for Android users: What’s inside

Google has introduced an “Activity” tab in its Android app, replacing the previous “Saved” tab, as announced on May 25, 2025. The new tab is organized into three sections: History, which displays the four most recent searches and accessed websites; Saved items, which presents saved content in a carousel view; and Collections, which offers groupings of saved items. Users can still access the old layout through the “Saves & Collections” option in the account menu. Additionally, adjustments have been made to the Home tab’s space carousel. The “Activity” tab integrates with Web & App Activity for managing user interactions across Google services.

AppWizard

May 23, 2025

NotebookLM is my favorite AI tool, but wow, its Android version is bad!

NotebookLM is Google's AI tool that allows users to curate and manage information by dictating sources for insights. The recently launched NotebookLM Android app offers a functional experience with features like smooth animations and the ability to switch between Google accounts, but lacks essential functionalities such as robust note creation and the Discover feature available on the web. Users have reported slower processing times for Audio Overviews on the app compared to the web interface. Despite initial disappointment, there is hope for improvement and users are optimistic about future updates that may enhance the app's capabilities.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

Google Calendar is getting closer to its Material 3 Expressive makeover (APK teardown)

Google is updating its Calendar app by integrating elements from the Material 3 Expressive design language, with a full rollout expected with Android 16. Recent changes in version 2025.19.0-757507108-release include: - Rounded corners for a softer interface. - Thicker lines separating days for better visibility. - The introduction of the Google Sans Flex font. - Full names of the days of the week instead of single-letter abbreviations. - A redesigned floating action button (FAB) that now includes 'Birthday' as an option and features text within the button itself. These updates aim to enhance the user experience across Android and Wear OS platforms.

AppWizard

May 7, 2025

Google’s May 2025 Pixel update is here with bug fixes and a critical security patch

The May 2025 security update for Google Pixel devices began deployment on May 6, addressing a critical zero-day security vulnerability (CVE-2025-27363) and including three bug fixes along with 28 security patches. The rollout may take about one week to reach all devices, depending on models and carriers. The update prevents devices from reverting to older, vulnerable versions of the bootloader. It also resolves specific issues for Google Pixel 6 and newer devices, including improvements in microphone recording quality, resolution of Bluetooth pairing issues with certain smartwatches, and correction of secondary language display issues in quick settings. Users are advised to check for the update in the Settings app under System > Software update.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

Microsoft’s overlooked Android launcher showed me everything Pixel Launcher is missing

Microsoft Launcher is an Android launcher developed by Microsoft, offering extensive customization options that surpass those of the default Pixel Launcher. It features up to ten customizable gesture options for enhanced usability, particularly for one-handed operation. The launcher includes a component called Your feed, which consists of Glance and News; Glance allows users to curate a personalized experience with scrollable cards from Microsoft apps, while the News section serves as a shortcut to MSN News but is criticized for excessive ads. Users can customize the home screen layout by removing or rearranging default widgets, and the app drawer has a spacious 5×8 grid layout with an alphabetical jump list. However, users may experience occasional animation glitches typical of third-party launchers on Pixel devices. Overall, Microsoft Launcher is considered a superior option for Pixel users seeking more features and customization.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft president reflects on 50-year anniversary, AI, innovation and community impact

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AppWizard

March 30, 2025

My favorite Google productivity app is everywhere and nowhere

36% of participants in a poll confirmed they actively use Google Tasks via its app or web interface, while 18% only add tasks through other Google products without engaging with the Tasks app. 9% expressed interest in trying it out for the first time, and 36% indicated they prefer another to-do platform. Google Tasks was originally an integrated feature within Gmail and Calendar and was relaunched as a standalone app in 2018. It allows users to create tasks from various Google services, enhancing its utility. The app is characterized by its simplicity and straightforward interface, which may contribute to its obscurity. Google is gradually rolling out new features for Tasks, including improved sorting options and easier task management capabilities. Despite its potential, Google Tasks currently occupies a lower priority in Google's broader product strategy.

AppWizard

March 13, 2025

Google prepares huge Gemini app updates for ‘personalization’ with more to try out

Google has announced updates to its Gemini app, including the introduction of the 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model, which enhances its ability to handle complex queries. The app now features a "personalization" experimental option that tailors responses based on user history across Google services. Users can upload files directly into the app, and Gemini can break down prompts into manageable steps for more accurate responses. The app integrates with services like Calendar, Notes, Tasks, and Photos, allowing users to perform multi-step queries seamlessly. Additionally, the Deep Research feature has been improved to help users explore complex subjects more effectively, with real-time insights into Gemini's processes. Access to the Deep Research feature will be limited to a few trials each month for general users, while Gemini Advanced users will have expanded access.

AppWizard

March 12, 2025

Here’s an early video preview of the upcoming Google app Search AI Mode in action (APK teardown)

Google is introducing a new AI Mode as part of the Gemini project, which aims to enhance user interaction across its applications. An early preview of this feature has been released, showcasing its integration into the Google app. The current beta version (16.9.39.sa.arm64) reveals that Voice Search and Lens options have been repositioned to accommodate the AI Mode. The interface now includes a floating Search bar that allows users to access the AI Mode easily, which generates detailed responses to queries with links to source material. The AI Mode supports various input methods, including text and voice queries, and integrates with Google Lens, which has received a visual update. The feature is not yet publicly accessible, but anticipation for its launch is growing.

AppWizard

March 6, 2025

Google Silently Tracks Android Device Even No Apps Opened by User

Recent research by Professor D.J. Leith from Trinity College Dublin reveals that Google collects significant amounts of user data on Android devices, even when users do not engage with Google applications. The study shows that pre-installed Google apps can track users without consent or opt-out options. Measurements were taken using a Google Pixel 7 with Android 14. Findings indicate that Google servers store multiple tracking identifiers immediately after a factory reset, before any user interaction. Collected identifiers include advertising analytics cookies and persistent device identifiers. This data collection raises concerns about compliance with EU data privacy regulations, such as the e-Privacy Directive and GDPR. Specific tracking technologies identified include the Google Android ID, DSID cookies, and NID cookies. User interaction data is also transmitted to Firebase Analytics servers. Users have limited control over the data stored on their devices, with disabling Google Play Services or the Google Play Store being impractical options.