Google's ecosystem Archives

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Amazon’s Android Pivot: A Catalyst for Semiconductor and Software Ecosystems

Amazon is transitioning its Fire tablet lineup from Fire OS to standard Android, codenamed “Kittyhawk,” to enhance hardware and software integration and compete with Apple and Samsung. This shift addresses developer fatigue by eliminating the need for separate app versions for Amazon's Appstore and responds to consumer demand for access to the Google Play Store. The new Android-based tablets, set for release in 2025, will likely increase app availability and capture a share of the premium tablet market. Key semiconductor partners expected to benefit from this transition include Qualcomm, Samsung, and MediaTek, as Amazon's adoption of standard Android may lead to increased demand for their chipsets. Additionally, the move strengthens Google's position within the ecosystem, potentially stimulating growth for its cloud and AI services, despite Amazon's decision to exclude Google's proprietary applications. Investors should monitor Qualcomm and MediaTek for semiconductor exposure, as well as Amazon's AI tools and cloud partnerships for potential growth. Amazon's current global tablet market share is 8%, which could expand with the new model, although risks include project delays and regulatory scrutiny regarding data privacy.

BetaBeacon

August 1, 2025

Epic Games Store for Android will be coming to Google Play Store: CEO Tim Sweeney

Epic Games Store will soon be available on Android via the Google Play Store, aiming to provide users with an alternative to Google's ecosystem and support more open app marketplaces on mobile platforms.

AppWizard

July 28, 2025

EU’s upcoming age verification system may block sideloaded Android apps

The European Union's new app verification framework requires that apps be downloaded from the Google Play Store, licensed by Google, and installed on devices meeting specific security criteria to pass verification. Apps that are sideloaded, compiled from source, or installed from alternative app stores will not qualify for the EU's age verification system. If adopted without modifications, this framework will bar any non-compliant Android apps from operating within the EU, potentially excluding many third-party or custom-built applications. The system aims to enhance protections for minors while prioritizing user privacy by not collecting further usage data after a one-time age verification. Similar age verification initiatives are also emerging in the United States. The EU's approach may limit user autonomy and the openness of the Android platform, and Android users in Europe should prepare for potential restrictions.

AppWizard

July 11, 2025

Gemini’s new photo-to-video breathes animated life into your memories

Google has introduced a new feature in the Gemini app that allows users to convert still images into dynamic videos using Veo 3 technology. Subscribers of Google AI Pro or Ultra can upload a photo and provide a text description for the video output, including specifying soundscapes. Earlier, Google Cloud launched a similar feature for Honor's 400 series with Veo 2, which required a subscription after a trial period. Veo 3 was highlighted at the I/O 2025 event for its audio capabilities and lifelike video generation, and YouTube is considering integrating it into its Shorts platform. Google has also stated that it has implemented measures to ensure user safety with these AI tools.

AppWizard

July 2, 2025

Google Chat is trying out an Expressive new look

Google is implementing its Material 3 Expressive design language across various Android applications, including Gmail and the stand-alone Chat app. The latest update for the Chat app (version 2025.06.15.771788943.Release) features interface modifications that enhance background colors for better visual contrast. The stand-alone Chat app differs from Gmail's Chat interface by lacking thin dividers between entries. The updates are being rolled out gradually, with not all users receiving the new design at the same time.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

The new $249 Google AI Ultra plan just put a gulf between me and I/O

The Google I/O event this year focused heavily on artificial intelligence, with the introduction of the Google AI Ultra plan priced at per month. This subscription includes access to the Gemini 2.5 model, Flow with Veo 3, early access to Project Mariner, 30TB of Google One storage, and YouTube Premium. The event's presentations were primarily aimed at developers, with limited consumer-facing innovations. Key topics like Android and Wear OS were presented in a pre-recorded video, suggesting a shift in focus towards AI and Search initiatives. The high subscription cost may deter average consumers from engaging with these new offerings.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

I turned my Windows PC into an EdgeBook — Microsoft’s web apps were the most glaring issue

Microsoft Edge was used as the sole application for two weeks to explore its capabilities as a potential alternative to ChromeOS for Windows 10 users. The experiment revealed that while Edge has useful features like the Sidebar and Edge Drop, the web versions of Microsoft Office were inadequate for daily tasks, often performing poorly and lacking functionality compared to desktop versions. Essential applications identified during the experiment included Snipping Tool, PowerToys, Microsoft Office apps, and a dedicated photo editor. The experiment also highlighted the possibility of uninstalling many applications from Windows 11, emphasizing the benefits of a clean install. Additionally, the potential of Windows 10X as a competitor to ChromeOS was noted, though it remains unrealized.

AppWizard

March 22, 2025

Killed by Google: These are the apps I miss the most

Google has retired several applications that were popular among users, including: - Google Now: Launched in 2012 and discontinued in 2015, it provided contextually relevant information through scrollable cards. It was replaced by features like the Discover feed and Google Assistant. - Inbox by Google: Introduced as an alternative to Gmail, it grouped similar emails and helped users manage their inboxes. It was retired in 2019, with some features integrated into Gmail. - Google Trips: Launched in 2016 as a travel companion app that integrated travel information from Gmail and Google Maps. It was discontinued in 2019. - Android Auto on Smartphones: Debuted in 2016, allowing smartphones to serve as navigation hubs in cars without built-in systems. It was discontinued in 2022 in favor of dedicated vehicle screens. - Trusted Contacts: Launched in 2016 to share real-time location with family and friends for safety. It was integrated into Google Maps but is missed for its simplicity. - Google Reader: A popular RSS feed aggregator that was shut down in 2013, known for its user-friendly interface and offline functionality. Its absence is still felt by users.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Amazon Is Shutting Down Its Android App Store For Users: Does It Really Matter?

Amazon will close its App Store for Android devices on August 20, 2025, due to low user engagement compared to the Google Play Store. Developers have been notified to stop submissions to the App Store. Additionally, Amazon is discontinuing its Amazon Coins program and will process refunds for any unused coins. The company is shifting its focus to enhancing app experiences on its own devices, such as Fire TV and Fire HD tablets.

AppWizard

December 11, 2024

Google to Integrate Gemini with Android 16 While Ditching Extensions

Google is enhancing its Gemini technology, primarily within its ecosystem, with plans for deeper integration in Android 16 through a new API. Gemini will be integrated with third-party and OEM applications, including Samsung's Reminder app. In Android 16, Gemini-powered features may be available in various applications without needing separate extensions, benefiting browsers, email and calendar apps, clock and note-taking apps, and media management in Google Photos. Additionally, Gemini may support Quick Share for device detection and file sharing. This development indicates that Google aims to streamline user experiences and extend Gemini's functionality to non-Google applications.

Google’s ecosystem