media apps Archives

BetaBeacon

October 12, 2026

Android Automotive vs. Google Built-in: How Google’s Two Car Platforms Actually Differ

- Google Built-in is a package of Google apps that carmakers license and add on top of their Android Automotive systems, providing access to Google Maps, the Google Play Store, and Gemini. - Gemini is officially taking over from Google Assistant as the voice assistant across 16 car brands, offering features such as real-time traffic updates, EV-specific routing, smart navigation, and the ability to check email, build playlists, and order dinner. - Not every automaker wants to use Google's assistant, with some like Ford and Rivian investing in building their own AI assistants. - Some drivers are skeptical of native systems like Google Built-in, believing that the motive behind them is new revenue rather than a better driving experience.

AppWizard

October 2, 2026

Google confirms Android Auto updates & fixes for media apps – the squiggly line is here to stay

Google has announced enhancements to Android Auto, particularly for media applications. A key feature allows users to control media playback from any app, including YouTube, but does not enable browsing app content directly. A redesigned media app player has been introduced for apps like Spotify and YouTube Music, providing easier access to playback controls and optimizing for various screen sizes. Users will soon be able to swipe between active media sessions from the dashboard widget, improving multitasking while driving. Improvements have been made to the autoplay function, ensuring that media apps not recently used will not be selected for autoplay, and Android Auto will recognize user behavior patterns regarding autoplay. The new "squiggly line" design for the media player has been confirmed as a permanent addition, aimed at providing a clearer visual representation of track progress.

BetaBeacon

September 27, 2026

How to use Android apps on your Windows PC (and why you might want to)

- Microsoft's plan to make Android apps compatible with Windows 11 was dropped in 2024. - Two main paths to run Android apps on a PC are through emulators like BlueStacks or MuMuPlayer, or using the Google Play Games app. - Emulating Android apps on a PC is useful for gaming, running social media apps, testing apps, and running slimmed-down versions of creative software. - Emulators like MuMuPlayer and BlueStacks allow for parallel instances of emulated Android devices.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

Android 17 QPR1: What Pixel Gets

Android 17 QPR1 began its stable rollout in the United States on September 15, 2026, coinciding with Google’s September Pixel Drop. This update introduces the Pause Point feature, which temporarily halts access to a selected app for 10 seconds, allowing users to reconsider their choice. The update is compatible with Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 through the Pixel 10a generations, as well as the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold models. The rollout is staged, leading to varying delivery times for users. Pause Point imposes a 10-second delay when accessing a configured app, offering options like breathing exercises and alternative app suggestions. Disabling Pause Point requires a phone restart. Scam protection features vary by region, with Gboard scam warnings initially exclusive to the U.S. for Pixel 6 and newer devices, while notification-based Scam Detection has expanded to nine additional regions, excluding Spain. Android 17 QPR1 also includes a refresh of the Pixel interface, adding a new Keyboard tile to Quick Settings and improving visual aesthetics with enhanced translucent and blurred backgrounds. Screen recording defaults to capturing a single app, and the VIPs widget has been upgraded for easier calling and messaging. Google and Audible have collaborated to provide Harry Potter-themed packs for Pixel users, featuring customized wallpapers and icons, along with a two-month Audible trial, though eligibility conditions are unspecified.

AppWizard

September 20, 2026

Don’t buy a $500 dumbphone. These apps will make your Android phone calm

The growing interest in minimalist phones, or "dumbphones," is prompting users to seek ways to transform existing smartphones into more focused devices. Key strategies include managing notifications by turning off alerts for most apps and allowing only essential updates, utilizing app blockers like Switchly to limit distractions from social media, and employing BlockAds to eliminate intrusive ads. Users can also opt for minimalist, ad-free versions of apps, such as the Fossify suite for essential functions and Breezy Weather for weather updates. Customizing the home screen to reduce clutter, such as simplifying it to a single page and disabling unnecessary widgets, can further enhance focus. Additionally, customizing popular apps like Chrome, Gmail, and Google Maps by disabling features and notifications helps create a calmer experience. Overall, intentional choices and the right tools can lead to a more serene smartphone environment.

AppWizard

September 15, 2026

Every single new feature in Android 17 QPR1 [Video]

Android 17 QPR1 has launched, compatible with devices from Pixel 6 to the latest models. The update includes several user interface changes such as improved lockscreen animation for media controls, access to Pixel Search settings in App list settings for older Pixel models, and a stashed media player in Quick Settings. Usability enhancements feature a predictive back gesture in Quick Settings, a new Keyboard tile for quick switching between keyboards, an option to dismiss the mobile data pop-up, and adjustments to the screen recording menu. Cosmetic changes include a new Quick Settings edit tile icon, a Gemini Intelligence boot logo for newer models, refreshed default app icons, improved animations in Quick Settings, enhanced system blur effects, and a visual update for app notification dots.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

7 Ways To Use Private Space On Your Android Device That Are Actually Helpful

Google's Private Space is a feature on Android devices that creates a secure environment for managing sensitive information. It allows users to lock banking apps, providing a secure vault that is hidden from the main interface and protected from malware and unauthorized access. Users can enhance security with a unique PIN or biometric authentication, and the space locks automatically when the smartphone is secured. Private Space also serves as a secure repository for personal documents, enabling users to move files like PDFs and IDs into it, ensuring they remain inaccessible until the space is locked. Additionally, Private Space allows users to separate personal and professional digital lives by logging into a different Google account, maintaining distinct emails, contacts, and calendar events. Users can install separate instances of messaging and social media apps within Private Space to manage multiple accounts securely. It also helps keep dating apps hidden, protecting users' privacy and personal data. When sharing devices, Private Space ensures personal data remains secure behind authentication. Lastly, it allows users to store data locally without syncing to the cloud, prioritizing privacy over convenience.

AppWizard

August 30, 2026

Google made Android 17’s best feature a Pixel 11-exclusive. This free app does it better

Android 17 features a Digital Wellbeing tool called Pause Point, which prompts users to reflect on their app usage but is only available on the Pixel 11 series. The Stroll app encourages users to earn screen time through physical activity, allowing them to accumulate time for using distracting applications by walking. It integrates step tracking from a phone’s counter or a smartwatch and allows manual input of steps via Google Health. Stroll restricts specific URLs and tracks usage streaks, promoting a healthier relationship with exercise and digital consumption. Unlike traditional app timers that warn users when time is running out, Stroll motivates users to engage in physical activity before accessing social media. The app also features a “time bank” for saving unused screen time. Users have reported reduced social media usage and a shift towards more enriching activities.

AppWizard

August 30, 2026

New JK Terror Tactic: Pornography Apps, Tor Network Used For Secret Messaging

Security agencies in India have observed a shift in the tactics of terrorist groups, which are now using pornography websites and niche encrypted applications for communication instead of traditional social media. These groups, often collaborating with Pakistan's ISI, utilize platforms with real-time chat tools disguised as dating services to send instructions to recruits in Jammu and Kashmir. Security agencies are monitoring various digital tools, including Tor-based applications like Coatex and Conion, which obscure user identities. Some privacy-focused platforms do not require phone numbers for registration, complicating tracking efforts. Despite bans on certain pornography applications in India, they are still accessed illegally via VPNs, which mask users' IP addresses. The use of the Tor network presents additional tracking challenges, as it obscures data origins and destinations. Security agencies are adapting their surveillance methods in response to these developments, which include the use of virtual SIM cards in terrorist activities, as highlighted during investigations into the 2019 Pulwama attack.

AppWizard

July 8, 2026

Wear OS 7: New features, eligible smartwatches, and everything you need to know

Wear OS 7 has been rolled out for smartwatches currently operating on Wear OS 6, with future models like the Galaxy Watch 9 expected to come with this update pre-installed. Current devices eligible for the upgrade include the Galaxy Watch 8 series and the OnePlus Watch 3 (release date pending). Key features of Wear OS 7 include Live Updates for real-time notifications, Remote Media Routing and Per-App Auto Launch for media apps, and Android XR Control for managing Android XR devices. The update introduces a new Neural Expressive design language, Gemini Intelligence for task automation, and a Personal Intelligence feature for personalized suggestions based on app data. Customization is enhanced with Widgets replacing traditional tiles, allowing users to create dynamic dashboards. Updates to the Google Contacts app include an improved search interface and an Emergency Sharing feature for location sharing during emergencies. The Wear Workout Tracker standardizes fitness tracking across devices, and battery life improvements promise up to a 10% increase in longevity. Samsung's One UI Watch is evolving with the upcoming One UI 9 Watch, which is expected to feature a refreshed interface and new customizations. Firmware for One UI 9 Watch has been detected on Galaxy Watch 8 models, indicating an imminent release, with the Galaxy Watch 9 series anticipated to launch in July alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8.