local media Archives

AppWizard

December 11, 2025

Here’s how you can get your payout in Google’s $700 million settlement

A 0 million antitrust settlement involving Google is set to benefit millions of consumers in the U.S. The lawsuit accused Google of unlawfully maintaining a monopoly over mobile app distribution and in-app payment processing for Android devices, charging fees up to 30% for app purchases and in-app transactions. Consumers who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023, are eligible for payouts, which will be automatically deposited into their PayPal or Venmo accounts. A supplemental claims process will be available for those who do not receive automatic payments. The court granted preliminary approval of the settlement on November 20, with a final approval hearing scheduled for April 30, 2026. The settlement was reached with the involvement of 53 attorneys general from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

BetaBeacon

November 26, 2025

This ambitious new emulation hub could be a game-changer on Android

iiSU is an ambitious emulation frontend that draws heavily from the Nintendo 3DS and PSP user interfaces. It features custom art and music for games, integrates with RetroAchievements, allows browsing and playing of local media files, and plans to include a social network and a shop for custom themes and icons. The platform is currently in development, with a public build expected in Spring 2026 for Android users.

Winsage

October 21, 2025

Windows XP never really died — it just moved into your pocket

A developer named Gorjan Jovanovski has created a Windows XP launcher for Android devices, available for free download. The launcher replicates a fully functional Windows XP desktop environment, including a Start menu, settings dialogs, and a working version of Internet Explorer. It also features designs reminiscent of Windows 95, 98, ME, and 2000, complete with unique welcome screens, music, and sounds. Key features include customizable desktop icons, a functional Start Menu, gesture controls, classic wallpapers, calendar and weather integration, and a Windows Update feature. Jovanovski has developed retro apps that mimic original counterparts, such as Internet Explorer 6, Winamp, Notepad, Phone Dialer, Registry Editor, and classic games like Minesweeper and Solitaire. Users report a complete experience, with the launcher performing well on devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. However, sideloading the 72MB launcher poses security risks, requiring users to disable firewalls and grant manual permissions. The launcher is not available on the Google Play Store due to copyright issues, and the code is not hosted on GitHub, raising concerns about security and future updates.

AppWizard

August 28, 2025

Spotify launches new direct messaging feature

Spotify is introducing a direct messaging feature, available to users aged 16 and older in select markets on mobile devices. This functionality allows users to share music directly within the app, simplifying the sharing process. Users can accept or decline message requests and block accounts for privacy control. To use the feature, users tap the share icon while listening to a track, select a friend, and send the message. Messages can be accessed by clicking on the profile photo in the top left corner of the app.

AppWizard

August 15, 2025

Russia restricts calls on WhatsApp, Telegram as internet control tightens

The Russian government has imposed restrictions on voice calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram as part of its efforts to tighten control over the internet amid the conflict in Ukraine. These restrictions affect approximately 96 million monthly WhatsApp users and over 89 million Telegram users in Russia. The regulator, Roskomnadzor, cited concerns from law enforcement about criminal activities occurring on these platforms. Access to voice calls will be restored only if the companies comply with Russian laws, including providing user data to law enforcement. Users have also reported disruptions to video calls. The government recently enacted a law penalizing online users for searching content deemed illicit and plans to promote a domestic messaging app named Max. WhatsApp defended its commitment to user privacy, while Telegram highlighted its measures against misuse.

AppWizard

May 9, 2025

So many people had no clue this Google app for managing photos and videos existed!

Google's Gallery app, previously known as Gallery Go, has over a billion downloads and has been available for six years, yet remains largely unknown to many users, including Pixel device owners. It serves as a simpler, offline alternative to Google Photos, appealing to users with limited storage or unreliable connectivity. A trending Reddit thread revealed users' surprise at the app's existence, with many expressing frustration with Google Photos' complexity. Launched in 2019, the Gallery app was initially aimed at low-end devices and has seen minimal marketing and updates since then. Its primary function is to allow users to view locally stored photos and videos, and it includes basic AI-powered photo organization.

Winsage

February 12, 2025

8 Old Windows Apps That Are Still Around in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes several classic applications that remain relevant and functional for users: - Notepad: A simple text editor for quick note-taking and code editing. - Paint: A basic graphics editor for quick sketches and image editing. - Calculator: An evolved multifunctional application that includes scientific and graphing capabilities. - Windows Media Player: A reliable option for playing local media files. - WordPad: A formatted text editing experience between Notepad and full-fledged word processors. - Snipping Tool: A utility for capturing screenshots easily. - Task Manager: A tool for monitoring system performance and troubleshooting issues. - Control Panel: A powerful tool for advanced system management options.

AppWizard

November 28, 2024

Legal Challenge Delays Microsoft’s Plan to Sell Games via Xbox Android App

A landslide occurred in Uganda's Bulambuli district on Thursday, November 28, resulting in at least 13 confirmed deaths, with fears that the toll could rise as search efforts continue. The landslide buried 40 households and damaged additional homes in villages such as Masubu, Nameche Trading Centre, Mamono, Tangalu, Buzemulili, and Masoola. The disaster followed several days of heavy rain, contributing to the region's instability. Local media reports suggest that up to 30 individuals may still be unaccounted for. The Ugandan Red Cross Society is providing support to the affected communities during the recovery efforts.

AppWizard

November 18, 2024

Android Auto beta teases the long-awaited radio station support again

Google is developing new radio station features for Android Auto, including categories for radio stations and a selection of music genres, as indicated by the latest beta version of the app. The Android Auto 13.3 beta includes a new media control for switching between radio stations, although the feature is not yet available to beta testers. There are plans for a "Car Media" application that will incorporate these categories, along with updated icons.

AppWizard

October 8, 2024

Android Auto seems to be preparing support for more calling apps

Android Auto is set to introduce support for third-party calling applications with the upcoming Android Auto 13.0 update. This update includes significant behind-the-scenes enhancements, such as a new "Car Media" feature for accessing local media sources and several new flags indicating potential integration of external dialer support. A "Calling" category for Android Automotive exists but is not fully implemented in Android Auto, with WhatsApp mentioned as a potential candidate for calls, although its functionality is currently limited to specific devices like Pixel and Samsung Galaxy smartphones.