location sharing Archives

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Hot deal: Garmin inReach Messenger Satellite Communicator cheaper than ever!

Amazon is offering a limited-time deal on the Garmin inReach Messenger Handheld Satellite Communicator at a historic low price, with 11% of available units already claimed. The device connects to smartphones via the Garmin Messenger app, utilizing cellular networks or satellite communications for messaging. It includes safety features such as GPS location sharing and SOS signaling for emergencies. Additional features include check-in messages, real-time weather updates, trackback routing for navigation, an IPX7 water-resistant rating, and approximately 28 days of battery life on a single charge.

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Android is preparing a hub for all your satellite-connected apps

Google is enhancing Android's satellite connectivity capabilities, which will allow users to stay connected in areas without cellular service. A new Quick Settings tile and menu will streamline access to these features. Initially, satellite connectivity was limited to emergency messaging, but upcoming updates will include functionalities like WhatsApp calling and live location sharing. In the latest Android Canary build, a toggle for a “Satellite” tile is available under Settings > System > Developer Options, indicating three states: On, Available, and Not available. The Pixel 9 supports satellite connectivity, but the tile is marked as “Not available” due to the user's T-Mobile plan lacking satellite access. Tapping the tile leads to a “Satellite connectivity” page listing compatible apps, including Emergency SOS, Messages, Find Hub, Maps, and Settings. WhatsApp is not currently listed, despite prior announcements of its support for satellite calls. The app list varies based on device and plan support for LTE-based or Narrowband NTN. If LTE-based NTN is supported, the app list could expand to include AccuWeather, Google Weather, Snapchat, and X, suggesting future satellite support for these applications. The Satellite tile and landing page are operational in the Canary release but are currently accessible only through a developer option, indicating they may still be in testing. Future Android Canary releases will provide updates on this feature's development.

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Android Prepares Satellite App Hub for Connectivity

Android is introducing a central "Satellite connectivity" hub in its latest Canary build, designed to enhance user experience by identifying applications that can operate over satellite networks. The hub includes a Quick Settings tile that displays the status of satellite connectivity and a dedicated Settings page for discovering "satellite apps." Initial testing shows core integrations with apps like Emergency SOS, Google Messages, and Maps, with plans for broader support. The system differentiates between narrowband and LTE-based satellite networks, affecting the types of applications available. Users with compatible plans will have access to features, while those without will be informed of limitations. The development aims to transition satellite connectivity from emergency use to everyday functionality, aligning with advancements in satellite-to-device connectivity standards. The hub is currently available only in the Android Canary channel, with a market-ready product expected as carrier partnerships and API integrations develop.

AppWizard

November 26, 2025

Google’s Play Services update drops a big boost to media swapping, Find Hub sharing

Google has started rolling out its latest Play Services update, which includes new features aimed at improving user experience, particularly in media controls and the Find Hub application. Key features include "one-tap transfer" suggestion chips for quick media swapping between devices and an upcoming "item location sharing" feature in Find Hub that will use encryption for secure sharing. The update also includes security enhancements and developer tools. The Find Hub application has been redesigned and now includes a "People" tab for easier location sharing. Future updates for Find Hub may include precision finding with ultra-wideband technology and satellite connectivity, as well as user-selected measurement units and more supported trackers.

AppWizard

November 25, 2025

Google Messages preps useful changes to saving media, sharing location, and more

Google Messages will soon allow users to open shared media files immediately after saving them. Location sharing will be updated to clarify the distinction between one-time and ongoing sharing options. The Gemini feature will gain visibility with a larger floating action button to encourage user interaction.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

Conversations (Jabber / XMPP) For Android

Conversations (Jabber / XMPP), developed by Daniel Gultsch, is a free and open-source Jabber/XMPP client for Android with a rating of 4.1 stars from over 100,000 users. It offers end-to-end encryption by default using protocols like OMEMO and OpenPGP, and supports encrypted audio and video calls, multimedia sharing, advanced machine-in-the-middle detection, location sharing, voice messaging, emoji reactions, read receipts, high-resolution contact photos, synchronization with desktop clients, support for private group chats and public conferences, integration with the user's address book, and multiple account support through a unified inbox. The app has a minimal impact on battery life and does not require a Google account or Firebase Cloud Messaging. Conversations is priced at USD 7.99.

AppWizard

November 11, 2025

Android users can now pick their preferred Google Find Hub measurement units

Google's Find Hub application has been updated to version 3.1.458 as of November 10, introducing new features such as a Distance Units menu for customizable measurement preferences and a redesigned fullscreen account menu for improved navigation. The Find Hub website now includes a comprehensive list of over 60 compatible brands and more than 100 devices, including trackers and earbuds. Notable devices listed are Chipolo Pop, Chipolo Loop, Chipolo Card, Pebblebee Clip Universal, MiLi MiTag Go, Moto Tag, Rolling Square AirNotch Pro, Rolling Square AirCard Pro, July CaseSafe, Google Pixel Buds 2a, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, JBL Tour Pro 3, Sony LinkBuds S, and Sony WH-1000XM6. An in-depth comparison of Chipolo and Pebblebee tracking devices is also available.

AppWizard

September 30, 2025

Samsung Find may be about to get a major off-grid upgrade

The Samsung Find app is introducing a satellite-based location sharing feature in version 1.8.00.16, allowing users to share their device's location every 15 minutes in areas without mobile coverage. This feature will automatically stop when turned off and includes options for manual position sharing if difficulties arise. The app aims to improve location services for Galaxy devices and SmartTags, especially in remote areas.

AppWizard

September 30, 2025

Made In India Arattai vs Meta’s WhatsApp: What’s Different And Same Between These Two Messenger Apps – Features, Release Date, User Experience, More

The Arattai app, launched in 2021 by Zoho, has gained significant popularity by 2025, becoming a leading name in social networking and topping App Store charts. In comparison, WhatsApp was founded in 2009 and became part of Meta in 2014. Arattai features a clean and intuitive interface with sections like Meetings, Pocket, and Mentions, while WhatsApp's interface is more basic. Key features of Arattai include a Meetings section for recording, a Pocket for personal storage, enhanced location sharing until reaching a destination, a Mentions tab for tagged messages, and multi-device support, including Android TV. WhatsApp currently offers end-to-end encryption, while Arattai is developing similar security measures.

Winsage

August 4, 2025

Switching to Windows 11: Really more security?

The transition to Windows 11 often requires new hardware, but purchasing a new PC does not guarantee improved security. Users should verify that the latest version of Windows 11 is installed and configure data protection settings, including diagnostic data options. Activating Windows Security, which includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus and a firewall, is advisable, and users should ensure compatibility with third-party antivirus solutions. Creating a system restore point and establishing automatic backups is crucial. Most devices support Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, which should be verified in BIOS or UEFI settings. Users should also remove unnecessary pre-installed software that may pose risks. Ongoing maintenance and updates are essential for maintaining security on a Windows 11 PC.