microphones Archives

AppWizard

December 4, 2024

Google’s Recorder app could be getting the upgrade users have been waiting for

The latest version of the Google Recorder app (Version 4.2.20241001.701169069) may introduce a "Clear Voice" feature aimed at reducing background noise while emphasizing human speech. Key points from the APK teardown include: - The feature is designed to minimize background noise for clearer playback of spoken content. - The Clear Voice feature will only function with mono audio, as stereo mode and external microphones are not supported. - The app will provide prompts to inform users when the feature is unavailable, such as when stereo audio is detected.

AppWizard

November 25, 2024

New Android ‘Dangerous’ App Warning—Check Your Phone Now

Google is enhancing on-device monitoring to address Play Store challenges, having removed many lower-quality and higher-risk applications. Despite these efforts, permission abuse remains a significant issue for Android users, with many apps tracking individuals covertly. A report analyzed 71 popular shopping apps, revealing concerning trends regarding dangerous permissions. The research focused on 40 "dangerous" permissions that provide apps with extensive access to sensitive user data. Experts recommend users review app permissions regularly and consider removing apps that do not allow disabling intrusive permissions. The report identified Tata Neu as the app requesting the highest number of intrusive permissions (19), followed by Taobao (18) and Lazada (17). Many apps seek permission to track precise locations, access cameras, and read contacts, raising privacy concerns. Users are advised to manage and revoke app permissions through device settings and to be cautious about granting permissions that seem unnecessary for an app's purpose. Google's new live threat detection feature in Android 15 aims to monitor app behavior and flag potentially malicious permissions.

AppWizard

November 12, 2024

Android 16 could borrow this key feature from Windows 11

The current audio input management in Android is inconsistent, leading to a frustrating user experience, especially for those using external audio devices. Android 16 is set to introduce a system-wide audio switcher to improve this situation. Recent findings from the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 release indicate the addition of an audio input section to the existing switcher, which has been part of Android since version 11. This feature, once activated, shows how audio management may evolve in Android 16. Currently, applications that support external microphones require developers to use the MediaRecorder API, resulting in a fragmented experience. Android 15 allows audio output changes but restricts input options. A preview of Android 16 suggests a dedicated section for audio input switching, which could simplify the process for users and reduce the reliance on the MediaRecorder API for developers, leading to a more uniform experience across the platform. This enhancement could significantly improve usability for high-end tablets, PCs, and smartphones running Android.

AppWizard

November 12, 2024

Android 16 could add a system-wide audio input switcher

Android devices have built-in microphones for voice calls and audio recording, but their quality varies by model. Many users seek external microphones for better audio quality, yet most Android apps do not support recording through them. Currently, audio input selection is limited to individual applications, which can be frustrating. Google has allowed developers to implement microphone settings via the MediaRecorder API, resulting in some apps offering input selection options. Android 16 may introduce a system-wide audio input switcher, allowing users to change the audio input device across all applications. This feature is currently in development and was discovered in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 release, though it is not yet functional. The anticipated release of Android 16 is in Q2 of 2025.