NewApp Digest
search bot

media playback

Here's why your Android Auto music controls look different this morning
AppWizard
March 25, 2026

Here’s why your Android Auto music controls look different this morning

Google has introduced a new Media Playback template for Android Auto, enhancing the user experience for music streaming applications like Spotify and YouTube Music. The update features a wavy progress bar and has repositioned the Play/Pause and track control buttons to the left side of the screen. This redesign aims to improve usability and streamline interaction with music apps. The rollout is gradual, with more users beginning to access the updated interface. The new design will be consistently applied across all music player applications using the Media Playback template. Users are encouraged to share their experiences with the new UI.
Sonos app finally brings back support for Android’s media and volume controls
AppWizard
March 11, 2026

Sonos app finally brings back support for Android’s media and volume controls

Sonos has reintroduced support for its built-in media player and lockscreen controls in the latest version of its app for Android users. This update coincides with the launch of new speaker models, including the "Play" portable speaker and the budget-friendly Era 100 SL, priced at . The app now allows users to manage playback from notifications or the lockscreen, displays currently playing media, and indicates which speakers are being used for audio output. Volume controls can also be accessed via the phone's physical buttons when the app is not open. Users are advised to check the Play Store for the latest version of the app.
Exclusive: Android Auto is preparing home screen widgets — here's your first look
AppWizard
October 30, 2025

Exclusive: Android Auto is preparing home screen widgets — here’s your first look

Android Auto is set to introduce home screen widgets, codenamed “Earth,” allowing users to integrate widgets from mobile applications into the Android Auto dashboard. Currently, Android Auto features “Taskbar Widgets” for quick app controls. The new home screen widgets will enable users to select one widget to occupy one side of the home screen, taking up 35-40% of the width. To add widgets in the current beta version, users must navigate to Settings > “Customize Earth,” choose an app, confirm the selection, and manage the widget. Users need to grant permissions for widget creation, after which they can select from compatible apps. Widgets will display on the dashboard, with the Spotify widget showing playback controls but lacking song titles due to layout design limitations. Testing reveals varying performance levels among widgets, with the Pixel Weather widget functioning well when location access is enabled. Key limitations include the ability to display only one widget at a time, no option to add multiple widgets from different apps, limited size adjustment, and some widgets not functioning correctly due to design issues. Widgets that work well typically do not require opening their companion apps. Improvements and better compatibility are expected in future updates.
Your next Google Maps navigation could be planned by Gemini
AppWizard
October 14, 2025

Your next Google Maps navigation could be planned by Gemini

Google is replacing Google Assistant with its Gemini AI in the Maps application, starting with the navigation microphone. Gemini will manage voice commands for route adjustments and inquiries about local weather or attractions while users remain on the navigation screen. The integration of Gemini into Google Maps allows for more conversational queries, such as finding nearby restaurants or parks. This shift follows the discontinuation of Assistant’s Driving Mode and suggests that Gemini will expand its functionalities to include calls, messages, and media playback across Android devices. There are indications that this integration may also extend to Android Auto, enhancing connectivity for users.
5 Ways to Turn Off Display in Windows Without Putting It to Sleep
Winsage
October 7, 2025

5 Ways to Turn Off Display in Windows Without Putting It to Sleep

Users can turn off their laptop displays without putting the device to sleep using several methods on Windows: 1. PowerShell Command: A specific command can be entered in PowerShell to turn off the display instantly. The command is: 

   Add-Type -MemberDefinition '[DllImport("user32.dll")] public static extern int SendMessage(IntPtr hWnd, int Msg, IntPtr wParam, IntPtr lParam);' -Name Monitor -Namespace User32[User32.Monitor]::SendMessage([IntPtr]0xffff, 0x112, [IntPtr]0xF170, [IntPtr]2)
2. Power Button Configuration: Users can set the power button to turn off the display by going to "Choose what the power button does" in the power plan settings and selecting "Turn off the display." 3. Desktop Shortcut: A desktop shortcut can be created to turn off the display using the command: 

   powershell.exe -Command "(Add-Type '[DllImport("user32.dll")]public static extern int SendMessage(int hWnd,int hMsg,int wParam,int lParam);' -Name a -Pas)::SendMessage(-1,0x0112,0xF170,2)"
4. Keyboard Shortcut: Users can assign a keyboard shortcut to the previously created desktop shortcut by right-clicking on it, selecting Properties, and designating a key combination in the Shortcut key section. 5. Third-Party Tools: Tools like the ScreenOff App or the Turn Off Monitor tool can also be used to turn off the display. The ScreenOff App is free and open-source, while the Turn Off Monitor tool offers additional features but requires payment for full functionality.
Readers still love this legendary Files by Google alternative, but why?
AppWizard
September 15, 2025

Readers still love this legendary Files by Google alternative, but why?

Total Commander is a file management application that was launched in 2012 and has a loyal following on Android. It features a straightforward user interface focused on functionality, allowing efficient navigation and direct access to the Android/data folder. The app includes smart shortcuts for quick selection, a home screen that showcases frequently accessed directories, and a plugin system for expanding capabilities with services like Google Drive and FTP. It has a built-in audio and video player with an equalizer, supports various file types, and handles ZIP files like folders. However, it lacks a multi-tab interface, breadcrumb navigation, app locking options, dedicated cleanup tools, and advanced search filters. The app has not been updated in over 17 months, raising concerns about its future viability. Despite its strengths, the reviewer prefers alternatives like Mixplorer and Samsung My Files due to the absence of modern features and an outdated interface.
Spotify and YouTube Music test out their sleek new look on Android Auto (APK teardown)
AppWizard
August 26, 2025

Spotify and YouTube Music test out their sleek new look on Android Auto (APK teardown)

At the Google I/O 2025 event, Google introduced new media app templates for the Android for Cars App Library, aimed at improving the user experience on Android Auto. Developers can utilize a new Media Playback template for a streamlined "Now Playing" view, currently in closed beta testing with early access provided through Spotify and YouTube Music. The update to Android Auto v15.1.653404 activates the Templated Media UI for these apps, featuring a redesigned seekbar that aligns with the Material 3 Expressive aesthetic. Google has not confirmed a timeline for the public release of these templated media apps, and there are mixed reactions to the new desaturated color palette. An APK teardown can provide insights into potential future features, but not all may be included in public releases.
Saying no to Windows 11 just got easier - Operese automatically transfers your Windows 10 files and settings to Linux
Winsage
July 22, 2025

Saying no to Windows 11 just got easier – Operese automatically transfers your Windows 10 files and settings to Linux

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting over 200 million devices. A student developer, TechnoPorg, has created a free migration tool called Operese to facilitate the transition from Windows 10 to Linux. Operese translates a Windows 10 installation into a Linux setup, preserving data, settings, and applications as much as possible. It uses a customized version of Kubuntu to provide a user-friendly experience. While the tool is still in development and may not support all applications, it aims to offer a smooth migration process. Linux distributions, such as Kubuntu, are compatible with older hardware and provide enhanced privacy and security compared to Windows. TechnoPorg plans to open-source Operese once it is more stable and documented.
Search