location sharing Archives

AppWizard

April 23, 2025

Google Messages update finally adds an important safety tool – and teases a feature I’m surprised the app doesn’t have already

Google Messages is introducing two new features: live location sharing and Sensitive Content Warnings. The live location sharing feature allows users to share their real-time whereabouts, improving coordination for meet-ups. Sensitive Content Warnings aim to protect users, especially minors, from harmful content by notifying them when nude images are sent or received. This feature is automatically enabled for users under 18 and can be managed through the Family Link app for supervised accounts. Users can adjust settings in Google Messages to manage these warnings, which utilize on-device AI to ensure privacy.

AppWizard

March 17, 2025

Android’s Find My app now tracks people too – here’s how it works

The Google Find My app has introduced a new feature that allows users to track the location of individuals through its Find My network. The app has a revamped interface with two main categories: devices and people. Users can view real-time locations of individuals sharing their whereabouts, along with exact addresses and distances. Location sharing can be initiated for various durations and can be easily disabled. This feature is also available in Google Maps, but many find it easier to use in the Find My app. The Find My network, launched last year, enables tracking of devices even when they are not connected to the internet by utilizing a network of over a billion Android devices and Bluetooth technology.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Google rolls out a quick March security patch to join its big Pixel update

In March 2025, Google began rolling out a security update for eligible Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series to Pixel 9, Pixel Fold, 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel Tablet. The update versions are BP1A.250305.019 for Pixel 6, 7, 8, and Fold, and BP1A.250305.020 for Pixel 9 series and Tablet. The update addresses various issues, enhancing display stability and performance, and includes fixes for camera and WebView stability. An audio issue with Bluetooth call volume is resolved, except for the Pixel 6 series. The changelog includes fixes for launcher theme misalignment, transparent home screen icons, app-switching issues with third-party launchers, and themed icon display problems. The update also introduces nine high-severity framework fixes and 21 system fixes for security, including two notable vulnerabilities. The rollout started on March 4, following a Pixel feature drop that added functionalities like Loss of Pulse detection and scam detection alerts.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Google rolls out new AI-powered scam detection feature in Messages app

Google Messages has introduced several new features for Android and Pixel users, focusing on user safety and connectivity. Key updates include an AI-driven scam detection tool that analyzes SMS, MMS, and RCS messages in real time to identify potential scams, alerting users to suspicious messages. This feature is initially available in English in the US, UK, and Canada, and it prioritizes user privacy by processing data on the device. Users can also share their live location with trusted contacts through a new feature integrated with the Find My Device app, which allows for real-time location sharing while maintaining control over who can access this information. Additionally, exclusive features for the Pixel 9 model include enhanced connectivity options for linking GoPro cameras and other Pixel phones, as well as upgrades to the Pixel Studio app for creating stylized images and stickers.

BetaBeacon

March 4, 2025

Find My Device adding ‘People’ location sharing, Android Auto getting full games, more

Google has announced the latest Android features for Spring 2025, including Find My Device 'People' sharing and Android Auto games.

AppWizard

November 19, 2024

Telegram rolls out its biggest mini app update ever

Telegram is enhancing its mini-apps with the introduction of Mini Apps 2.0, which features a full-screen mode for immersive gaming experiences. This update includes motion-sensing controls for virtual reality titles, performance optimization based on device power and memory, and the addition of gyro controls. Users can create shortcuts to their favorite mini-apps on their home screens for quicker access. The mini-apps will also support document creation and location-based services, with location sharing disabled by default for privacy. A subscription model for developers is being introduced, allowing monetization of mini-apps through in-app Telegram Stars. Developers can enable media sharing and referral codes, while premium users can set emoji statuses within the apps.

AppWizard

October 2, 2024

Google Maps might be making an important change to location sharing

Google is planning to enhance location-sharing functionalities for Android users by consolidating these features into new menus within the Android Settings app. This change will allow users to manage their location-sharing preferences more efficiently without solely relying on Google Maps. A dedicated section within the Google Play Services framework will provide a centralized hub for location-related activities, enabling users to easily enable or disable location sharing across various Google applications and view individuals with whom they have shared their location. Additionally, a notification feature will alert users when their location is being shared and provide a shortcut to the Settings app for quick deactivation of sharing. Users will still need to adjust location-sharing settings directly within third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp.

AppWizard

September 18, 2024

Garmin Introduces inReach Messenger Plus SOS Satellite Communicator – Fishing Tackle Retailer – The Business Magazine of the Sportfishing Industry

Garmin has launched the inReach® Messenger Plus, a satellite communicator designed for outdoor adventurers, enabling photo and voice messaging, global two-way texting, location sharing, and SOS capabilities. The device features an extended battery life of up to 600 hours in low-power messaging mode and can last weeks to months depending on usage. It includes functionalities such as photo sharing, voice messaging, two-way group text messaging, interactive SOS, route sharing, off-grid navigation, and real-time weather updates. The device is standalone, rugged, and has an IPX7 water rating. It is priced at 9.99 and requires an active satellite subscription starting at .99 per month.

AppWizard

April 15, 2024

Google wants to show all Android location-sharing settings in one place

Google is working on a new feature called Google Location Sharing that will consolidate all location-sharing controls under one roof in Android settings.

AppWizard

March 31, 2024

What is RCS messaging and why is it important?

RCS is a messaging protocol that is an upgrade over standard SMS text messaging, offering features such as sharing videos, GIFs, and location data, as well as encryption for secure messaging. It integrates seamlessly with phone contacts and does not require a separate app or sign-up. RCS requires support from both carriers and mobile devices, with over 55 carriers worldwide now supporting it. Despite its potential, RCS faces challenges such as fragmentation and slow adoption, leading many users to continue using third-party messaging apps.