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Google releases Android 17 update with foldable improvements, app bubbles, and more
AppWizard
June 17, 2026

Google releases Android 17 update with foldable improvements, app bubbles, and more

Google has released the stable version of Android 17 for all supported Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. Key features include: - App Bubbles for multitasking, allowing users to launch apps in floating windows. - Enhanced Picture-in-Picture mode for full interactivity in desktop environments. - Encouragement for developers to optimize apps for various screen orientations and sizes. - Implementation of app memory limits to improve performance and battery life. - A 50:50 split-screen mode for gaming on foldable phones and native controller remapping. - The Continue On feature for seamless task transitions between devices. - Improved privacy features, including temporary access to location data and a Mark As Lost feature. - Support for Eclipsa Video HDR format and enhanced audio quality through the Extended HE-AAC encoder. - Introduction of the RAW14 image format for better camera capabilities. - Enhanced support for Bluetooth Low Energy Audio, particularly for hearing aids.
Google VP John Maletis confirms Googlebooks will run Android apps far better than Chromebooks
AppWizard
June 12, 2026

Google VP John Maletis confirms Googlebooks will run Android apps far better than Chromebooks

Chrome Unboxed offers a membership called Chrome Unboxed Plus, which provides an ad-free experience, access to a private Discord, and additional perks. Google is developing the Googlebook category directly on the Android tech stack, allowing apps to run natively without an emulation layer, significantly improving performance. This change enables applications to utilize hardware capabilities fully, resulting in a smoother user experience. The unified foundation of Googlebooks encourages developers to optimize their apps for various devices, facilitating a "Build Once, Deploy Anywhere" approach. This shift has led to increased enthusiasm among developers, with many creating integrations specifically for Googlebooks. The success of Googlebooks will depend on effective software execution, as it aims to provide high-speed performance without the limitations of traditional operating systems.
Introducing new Surface devices built for business and AI acceleration
Winsage
May 19, 2026

Introducing new Surface devices built for business and AI acceleration

IT leaders face challenges from the rise of artificial intelligence, sophisticated security threats, and scrutiny over investment decisions regarding PC fleets. Microsoft has introduced the Surface line to address these demands, integrating advanced silicon and software for enhanced security and AI capabilities. The new Surface Pro for Business and Surface Laptop for Business, powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, offer significant performance improvements, including up to 35% better graphics than the MacBook Air with M5 and over 90% faster than the Laptop 5 on select configurations. The Surface Laptop for Business is available in 13-inch and 15-inch models, starting at 9.99, featuring a high-resolution touchscreen, advanced haptic touchpad, and up to 23 hours of battery life. The 13-inch Surface Pro for Business, also starting at 9.99, combines multiple input methods with on-device AI processing. All Surface devices are designed with security as a core principle, shipping as Secured-core PCs, and include an optional integrated privacy screen. They support AI applications both in the cloud and on-device, enhancing productivity. Devices can be managed through Microsoft Intune for operational efficiency. The new Surface devices are made from recycled materials, designed for energy efficiency, and certified by ENERGY STAR.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (PC) Review - Kojima’s Masterpiece Gets a Stellar Port
AppWizard
March 31, 2026

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (PC) Review – Kojima’s Masterpiece Gets a Stellar Port

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is a sequel that takes place approximately 11 months after the first game, featuring Sam Porter Bridges on a mission to connect the Chiral Network in Mexico and Australia. The game includes familiar characters and has improved traversal mechanics, with a quicker story pace and more low-level enemies. Nixxes has adapted the game for PC, introducing a new hardcore difficulty setting called “Into the Wilder,” and ensuring it runs well across various hardware configurations. The game offers extensive customization options for graphics and controls, performing well on devices like the Steam Deck and ROG handheld. It has received acclaim for its visuals and gameplay, although some players find the plot and pacing inconsistent.
Android 17 Beta 3 finally brings the desktop multitasking we’ve been waiting for
AppWizard
March 27, 2026

Android 17 Beta 3 finally brings the desktop multitasking we’ve been waiting for

Android 17 Beta 3 introduces significant multitasking capabilities with the Bubbles system, allowing users to run applications in floating windows. Screen recording features a floating control panel for editing, sharing, and deleting recordings. Quick Settings have been simplified with distinct toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. This beta version is available for Pixel 6 and newer devices, with finalized SDK and NDK APIs for developers. The Bubbles system allows users to open apps in floating windows, and enhancements for foldable devices include dragging icons for better multitasking. Users can now disable dark mode for individual apps, and privacy features include adaptive password visibility based on input methods and a new Location Button for temporary location access.
Do yourself a favour in Crimson Desert and play the game with a controller
AppWizard
March 20, 2026

Do yourself a favour in Crimson Desert and play the game with a controller

Crimson Desert features a complex control scheme that can feel clunky, particularly during the game's introduction. Players can choose between a mouse and keyboard or a gamepad, with controllers offering a more intuitive experience for those familiar with console gaming. However, using a controller can lead to issues such as accidentally jumping instead of interacting due to limited buttons. The compact controller inputs can be beneficial in high-pressure situations, allowing for quicker healing, while keyboard users may struggle to reach distant keys. Sprinting is bound to the Shift key, which can cause problems like triggering sticky keys. The keyboard allows for some customization of bindings, but controllers are recommended for a more straightforward experience.
Minecraft 26.1 Pre-Release 2
AppWizard
March 13, 2026

Minecraft 26.1 Pre-Release 2

The pre-release for version 26.1 has been shipped, featuring technical adjustments and fixes related to the Tiny Takeover game. Key changes include: - Adjusted dismount speed thresholds for Spears. - Fixed animation issues for the Baby Axolotl's hind leg. - Scaled the Baby Cat to match the Baby Ocelot's size. - Corrected the scaling of the Baby Horse model. New UI enhancements include an "Exclusive Fullscreen" display option, which requires a game restart to take effect and may limit certain input methods. Trade adjustments now ensure the Master Librarian offers three trades, including an enchanted book trade during the Rebalance experiment. Technical changes include the discarding of text components nested more than 16 times in server status messages. Fixed bugs in this pre-release include issues with despawning trader llamas, skeletons, cats, hoglins, zoglins, dolphins, squids, and various other gameplay and UI bugs. Players can access the pre-release through the Minecraft Launcher by enabling snapshots, but should back up their data as testing versions may corrupt worlds.
Spotify Android App Draws Ire For Rigid Gestures
AppWizard
March 1, 2026

Spotify Android App Draws Ire For Rigid Gestures

Spotify's Android app relies on mandatory swipe gestures that cannot be disabled, causing usability issues that conflict with Android's navigation system. This design choice has led to accidental actions, such as skipping tracks or altering playlists, particularly affecting users with motor or dexterity challenges. Research indicates that invisible gestures can lead to unintended activations, and guidelines recommend providing multiple input methods. A proposed solution is to introduce a Gestures menu for user customization, allowing users to disable or modify swipe actions. With Android's market share at around 70% and Spotify having approximately 626 million monthly active users, minimizing accidental actions could enhance user experience and provide a competitive advantage.
Vanguard Princess PC Port DLC Launches In Early Access On Steam With Online Play
AppWizard
February 17, 2026

Vanguard Princess PC Port DLC Launches In Early Access On Steam With Online Play

eigoMANGA has released the Vanguard Princess Mobile (PC Port) DLC in Early Access on Steam, requiring the base version of Vanguard Princess. This DLC adapts the mobile version of the 2D fighting game for PC, featuring online play and enhanced control options. The Early Access version includes Story Mode, Versus Mode, Training Mode, Tutorial Mode, and Online Mode, with online multiplayer supported by Photon Unity Networking 2 (PUN2). Players can customize controls and use various input methods, including keyboards and gamepads. The combat system retains the assist mechanic, allowing players to extend combos and manage battles. The Early Access phase will focus on gameplay balance, online stability, and performance updates based on player feedback.
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