Google services

AppWizard
July 2, 2026
Google is introducing a selective backup feature for Android users, allowing granular control over app data management. This update is initially rolling out to Pixel devices and users of Google Play Services version 26.24. Users can now selectively manage backups for each app, which helps conserve cloud storage space. The feature is available for those using Android 16 and Android 17, with other manufacturers expected to adopt it soon. Once activated, data is securely backed up to the cloud, but users should be aware that disabling backup for an app will permanently delete its previously backed-up data. To manage backups, users can go to their device’s settings under Google Services > Backup > Backup details. The rollout is gradual, primarily targeting Google Pixel smartphones. Most users will receive the update automatically, and they can check their version of Google Play Services in the settings.
AppWizard
July 1, 2026
South Korea's antitrust regulator, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), has formally accused Google of abusing its dominant position in the Android app market. The allegations involve a program called the Games/Google Velocity Program (GVP), which reportedly pressured game developers to favor the Google Play store over competitors. The KFTC claims Google's actions have affected approximately 14.16 trillion won in revenue and could lead to fines of up to 6% of that amount. The program, operational since July 2019, provided financial support to developers in exchange for favorable terms on Google Play. The KFTC has categorized these actions as an abuse of market dominance and an unfair exclusive dealing practice. Google has eight weeks to respond to the allegations before a final ruling is made. This case is part of a larger global scrutiny of Google's influence in app distribution, with similar issues arising in India and the European Union.
AppWizard
June 19, 2026
Google has begun rolling out updates for the Android System SafetyCore (version 1.0.925574157), Android System WebView (version 149.0.7827.91), and Google Play Services (version 26.22.33) on Samsung devices. Users must manually update these apps by navigating to the Settings menu, locating the Apps section, and selecting "App details in store" for each app. The updates are available for devices running One UI 8.5 and One UI 9 in India, with uncertain availability in other markets.
AppWizard
June 19, 2026
Foldable smartphones have introduced a new gaming feature, but some Pixel users are experiencing a bug that prevents certain applications from recognizing Wi-Fi connections, forcing them to use mobile data. This issue particularly affects Google apps and TikTok. While Google has not provided an official solution, some users have found workarounds, such as enabling IPv6 connections in their router settings, though results vary. The bug has emerged alongside the beta release of Android 17, leading to user frustration and the suggestion to submit bug reports to the Google Issue Tracker for resolution.
AppWizard
May 28, 2026
Many users are reevaluating their daily applications in favor of alternatives that prioritize user experience and data security. Proton Unlimited is a suite of tools that replaces several Google services, including Proton Mail as a private alternative to Gmail, Proton Drive as a substitute for Google Drive, Photos, and Docs, and includes Proton Calendar, VPN, Authenticator, and Pass, all designed with privacy in mind. Brave is a browser that prioritizes user privacy and maintains a similar interface to Chrome, supporting Chrome extensions and requiring no additional configuration for privacy settings, although it occasionally misidentifies non-ad content as ads. Claude is a chatbot that emphasizes data security and offers features like Artifacts for app creation, while organizing conversations for better usability, though it lacks some functionalities found in competitors like Gemini. Inoreader is an RSS reader that allows users to curate their news feeds according to personal preferences, offering a free version with limitations that do not significantly impede the user experience. Obsidian is a note-taking application that emphasizes offline capabilities and user privacy, providing a flexible alternative to Notion and Evernote, with a clean interface and basic functionalities accessible for beginners.
AppWizard
May 23, 2026
Gemini Live on Android has expanded its integration capabilities, allowing access to a wider range of first- and third-party "Connected Apps." The update introduces a new floating interface that integrates Gemini Live into the text chat experience. Previously, it connected only with Google services and select third-party alternatives. The first-party app list now includes services such as Home, Hotels, Flights, Workspace, Image generation, Shopping, Utilities, YouTube, YouTube Music, and Spotify. The Utilities section introduces timers and alarms, but the ability to send Messages via Gemini Live is still forthcoming.
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