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AppWizard
September 18, 2026
The new AndroidX Security State libraries, with stable releases of Security State v1.1.0 and Security State Provider v1.0.0, allow developers to evaluate the security status of individual device components. They provide three levels of security patch information: Device Security Patch Level (DSPL), Published Security Patch Level (PSPL), and Available Security Patch Level (ASPL). These libraries enable checks on critical components of the Android operating system, including system modules and the Linux kernel, which are represented by version numbers rather than monthly patch dates. Applications that prioritize security can utilize this detailed patch information to assess vulnerabilities, particularly those tracked as Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs). The libraries also integrate with the Open Source Vulnerabilities (OSV) database for access to Android Security Bulletin data and device-specific vulnerability reports. Additionally, Android 17 allows manufacturers to declare individual security fixes beyond the stated security patch level, and Google is working with manufacturers to transition their OTA update clients to this new standardized system.
AppWizard
September 18, 2026
YouTube users are currently facing a restriction that limits video resolution to a maximum of 480p, affecting both free and Premium subscribers. This issue has been reported for several weeks, primarily impacting users of the mobile app. Some users have found temporary solutions, such as clearing the app’s cache or reinstalling the app, but these fixes do not work for everyone. Inquiries have been made to Google for clarification on the situation.
AppWizard
September 18, 2026
Cybersecurity experts have identified a new Android malware named RatHat, believed to be operated by Chinese threat actors. RatHat is distributed primarily through smishing and malvertising campaigns, leading users to deceptive download portals. It employs an automated multi-stage infection process and exploits Accessibility features along with a local ADB self-pairing mechanism to escape the Android application sandbox. The malware uses various anti-analysis techniques, including container tampering, manifest bombs, DEX bytecode poisoning, and dual string-encryption. RatHat's architecture consists of a malicious Android application, a Go agent, and an FRP reverse-proxy client, which together enable it to gain critical system permissions and perform various malicious activities such as credential capturing, screen recording, and SMS interception. Even if uninstalled, the malware retains shell access to the device, allowing attackers to reinstall it. RatHat can serialize the device's Accessibility tree to XML and communicate with a Generative AI assistant for tasks like screen coordinate determination and text extraction. The Go Agent, masquerading as a native library, exploits shell access to execute commands and establish a persistent connection to a command-and-control server via the FRP client. The C2 server can issue extensive commands to collect sensitive information, including SMS messages, credentials, files, and keystrokes, and RatHat also features a hardware-level keylogger.
AppWizard
September 18, 2026
Gemini has launched on Android Auto, but user feedback has been largely negative. Google is working on improvements, including a new destination card in Google Maps that will utilize Gemini's AI to provide information about destinations, such as reviews, essential details, practical tips, and visuals. The user interface is still being optimized, and there is no guarantee that the feature will be finalized for public release. Users have reported issues with Gemini, including problems with making calls and sending texts, distractions from excessive chatter, and app crashes. The latest updates were noted in Android Auto version 17.8, which is still in development.
AppWizard
September 18, 2026
Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 was released on September 15, 2026, with a public rollout for Pixel devices starting the next day. This beta version enhances the Proactive Assistance feature on Pixel 10 and Pixel 11 devices, allowing users more control over personalized suggestions and addressing various bugs. It is a development build for supported Pixel devices and Android Emulator images, with identified builds CP41.260828.004.A8 and CP41.260828.005.A6, and a security patch level dated August 5, 2026. The update package size for the Pixel 10 Pro XL is approximately 667 MB. The notable change in Beta 5 is the introduction of two Proactive Assistance entries in the Settings menu, allowing users to manage proactive suggestions more effectively. The updated settings page includes a "Use app content for suggestions" option, enabling users to control which applications can share screen content and notifications. Google's release notes list several fixes, including issues with Bluetooth device icons, unexpected reboots, missing volume controls, search-field highlight rendering, unlocking Private Space, HDR behavior, Google Wallet touchscreen unresponsiveness, camera crashes, and distorted Bluetooth call audio. The stable release of Android 17 QPR2 is expected in December 2026, and users are advised that Beta 5 is a developmental tool that may contain errors. Additionally, new restrictions on programmatic USSD requests for call forwarding have been introduced to reduce potential fraud.
AppWizard
September 17, 2026
Hideo Kojima announced that Bill Skarsgård will star as the lead in his stealth-action game, Physint, which has transitioned from PlayStation to Xbox. The cast includes Charlee Fraser, Don Lee, and Minami Hambe. Kojima shared a new poster featuring Skarsgård and Fraser with the tagline, "The Next Cold War Begins." Yoji Shinkawa is part of the production team. Initially, there was speculation about Robert Pattinson being cast. Concerns exist regarding the game's development due to the shift to Xbox, which may affect the release timeline. Kojima is also working on another project titled O.D. under Xbox.
AppWizard
September 17, 2026
The Messenger-Inquirer is launching a mobile application to enhance reader experience by providing access to its content. The app will feature comprehensive content access, a user-friendly interface, real-time notifications for breaking news, and a personalized news feed option.
Winsage
September 17, 2026
The search index on Windows 11 can contribute to storage bloat, with reported sizes varying significantly among users. The search index database, named Windows.db, is crucial for delivering quick search results and can grow dramatically, with some users experiencing sizes exceeding 200GB. A PowerShell script can be used to check the size of the Windows.db file. If the file size is unusually large, users can rebuild the search index through the Indexing Options in the Control Panel. Windows 11 has two indexing modes: Classic and Enhanced, which affect the size and number of indexed items. Classic mode indexes specific folders, while Enhanced mode indexes the entire PC. Excluding certain directories can help manage index size. Performance issues may arise on PCs with over 400,000 indexed items.
Winsage
September 17, 2026
Devices operating on Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions will stop receiving updates starting October 13, 2026. The Enterprise and Education editions of Windows 11 24H2 will continue to receive mainstream support until October 2027. Microsoft encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11 25H2, which became available in September 2024. Systems running Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro that are not managed by IT will automatically upgrade to Windows 11 25H2. Users can check for eligibility for the update by navigating to Settings > Windows Update. Windows Server 2022 will transition to extended support on October 13, 2026, lasting until October 14, 2031. Microsoft has extended the free Windows 10 Extended Security Updates program for home users until October 2027 and will halt security updates for Windows 11 Home and Pro 23H2 in November 2025.
AppWizard
September 17, 2026
Gemini's integration into Waze enhances the app's capabilities by introducing personalized navigation features that adapt to individual driving preferences, allowing Waze to analyze past routes and suggest options based on user habits. Users can report road conditions using natural language, making it easier to share important information without distraction. The app also allows for a conversational approach to searching for destinations, enabling drivers to find stops along their route without specifying exact locations. Additionally, features like a "less chatty" mode and a motorcycle mode cater to different user preferences and needs.
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