home screen Archives

AppWizard

November 5, 2024

Google could soon address several key issues in Pixel Screenshots app (APK teardown)

Google is preparing a significant update for the Pixel Screenshots app, which will include several new features: - Two new app shortcuts for quick access to the Gallery and Camera. - A new gesture for selecting multiple screenshots. - The ability to incorporate multiple images from other applications. - Enhanced actions for interacting with email addresses and phone numbers in screenshots. The app's home page will be updated to allow users to view all screenshots directly, replacing the current arrow icon with a layout option. A long-press and drag gesture will facilitate selecting multiple screenshots. New shortcuts will be accessible through a long-press on the app icon. The update will also improve integration with the Android system share sheet and provide options for managing email addresses and phone numbers from screenshots. These features are expected to be rolled out in future updates.

AppWizard

November 4, 2024

Android apps break due to Google Play services ‘not supported’ error

A number of Pixel device owners are experiencing issues with Google Play services, which is displaying a message that it is “not supported by your device.” This malfunction affects both first and third-party applications, rendering them inoperable on Android 15 stable and QPR1 Beta versions. Popular applications like Gmail are unable to function, and the Discover feed is also impacted. The Play Store is returning an error message indicating that Google Play Services is not available or too old. The issue may extend beyond Pixel devices to other Android users. Some users speculate that the problem may be related to the Google Play services beta program. Suggested troubleshooting steps include opting out of the beta program, restarting devices, and updating to the latest stable version of Play services, though these solutions have not worked for everyone. Some users have resolved the issue by performing a factory reset.

AppWizard

November 4, 2024

Google TV finally shows app update progress on the home screen

Google TV has introduced a feature that enhances visibility into app updates by allowing users to monitor the progress of updates directly from the home screen. This new design includes a visual cue, a ring around the app icons, indicating the update status, similar to update indicators on Pixel smartphones. The feature is already available on several Google TV devices, although some users may not have noticed it. Additionally, Google TV has integrated with Google Home, enabling users to control smart home devices from the interface.

Winsage

October 30, 2024

Xbox Insiders can now test the Windows Xbox App’s redesigned home screen

The Windows Xbox app has a revamped home screen available to Xbox Insiders, merging Game Pass and Microsoft Store functionalities for a streamlined user experience. The new interface allows users to easily locate games without excessive navigation and is accessible to Game Pass subscribers and Microsoft Store purchasers. Users can join Xbox Insiders by downloading the Xbox Insider Hub and signing up for the “PC Gaming Preview.” The new menu features consolidated content, discounts, and personalized recommendations. It includes a “jump back in” functionality displaying the nine most recently played titles, and Compact Mode optimizes the interface with icons instead of tabs. Microsoft is seeking user feedback to improve the experience.

Winsage

October 29, 2024

The Xbox App On PC Is Becoming Quicker And Easier To Use

Microsoft has released an update for the Xbox app on PC, currently available to Xbox Insiders. The update includes a "jump back in" feature that allows players to view their last nine games played, a revamped Home screen showcasing featured content, curated collections of deals and discounts for games in the Microsoft Store, and personalized game recommendations. Additionally, a previous update in June introduced more personalization options for backgrounds.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Microsoft makes the Xbox app on Windows PC much better with a new feature it’s been missing since release

Microsoft has introduced a new feature called "Home" for the Xbox app on Windows, which provides a user-friendly Home screen displaying featured game releases, new Game Pass additions, upcoming events, top game deals, and personalized game recommendations. The app also includes a Compact Mode for quick access to recently played games. Currently, the Home menu is available exclusively to Xbox Insiders, who can join the Xbox Insider Program for free. This update aims to address previous criticisms regarding the app's performance and navigation issues. The Home menu resembles the Xbox dashboard and is designed to enhance the overall user experience for PC gamers. A survey will be available for user feedback, and support can be accessed through Xbox channels.

AppWizard

October 24, 2024

Android 15’s QPR1 Beta 3 is finally here with system crash and foldable fixes

Google has released Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 for enrolled testers with eligible Pixel devices, addressing a blank screen issue on foldable devices and improving Bluetooth functionality. The update is available for Pixel 6 to Pixel 9 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel Tablet, with version AP41.240925.009. Notable fixes include resolving Bluetooth volume control issues, complications with profile switching, and a blank screen problem when unfolding certain devices. Additional fixes address truncated notifications, system memory paging problems, app icon reversion, system UI crashes, heads-up notification interaction issues, and various stability and connectivity problems. The OTA update began rolling out on October 24, and users can manually check for updates in their settings. The update follows a previous Beta 2 release aimed at Bluetooth and NFC payment issues and hints at future enhancements for Android 16. Some users have reported issues with the stable OS, including inoperability on Pixel 6 devices.

AppWizard

October 23, 2024

How to use Android 15’s App Freeze feature to clear space on your phone

The Pixel line of smartphones now includes a feature called App Freeze, which helps users manage storage by archiving infrequently used applications and their data. When an app is archived, it becomes temporarily unavailable until reactivated, freeing up storage space and retaining only minimal data. Archived apps are marked with a cloud icon in the App Drawer or home screen. The feature is enabled by default on new Pixel devices running Android 15, and users can find it under "Manage app if unused" in the settings menu. Users can choose to allow automatic archiving after a period of inactivity or manually archive apps. To enable archiving, users must ensure the "Manage app if unused" setting is turned on. Tapping an archived app restores it to its previous state.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 15 Is Here. What You Need to Know about Google’s Latest OS on Your Phone

Google will unveil Android 15 on Tuesday, initially available for supported Pixel devices, including Pixel 8 and Pixel 9, with a broader rollout to select devices from manufacturers like Samsung, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, and OnePlus in the coming months. Android 15 introduces features such as partial screen recording, satellite connectivity for messaging without cellular service, predictive back gestures, improved in-app camera controls, low-light enhancements, and sensitive notifications for two-factor authentication codes. The update focuses on enhancing security, particularly in health and finance sectors, and improves functionality for large-screen devices. Key features include: - Revamped Theft Detection Lock powered by AI. - Enhanced authentication for critical settings like SIM removal and disabling Find My Device. - A Private Space feature to conceal sensitive applications. - Customizable taskbar for foldables and tablets. - Ability to pair apps for multitasking. - Optimized in-app camera controls for low-light conditions. - Satellite connectivity for messaging applications. - Single-tap login using passkeys. Android 15 will first roll out to Pixel devices, with support for additional brands including Samsung, Honor, iQOO, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Users are advised to back up their devices before installation. To download Android 15, users should navigate to Settings > System > Software updates > System Updates on their supported device. If storage space is insufficient, users must free up space or use a computer for the update process.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 15’s app archiving feature works with all Android apps, unlike the Play Store’s version

Google has launched the Android 15 update for Pixel devices, introducing an app archiving feature that optimizes storage by allowing users to remove an app's installation and temporary files while keeping its data. This feature supports all app distribution formats, including traditional APKs, unlike the previous version limited to Android App Bundles. When an app is archived, its installation files are removed, but the app remains visible on the home screen and in device settings, with its original icon preserved in a private data directory. This enhancement aims to improve app management and encourage third-party app stores to adopt similar features.