minimalism Archives

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Niagara Launcher, one of the best Android launchers, finally has backups

Niagara Launcher has released a "Winter Update" that includes a backup feature allowing users to securely save and restore their launcher settings, integrating with Android's backup system to archive settings to Google Drive. This feature is available in both free and pro versions and can be accessed through the app's settings. Additionally, a new tool called the Usage Breaker, exclusive to Niagara Pro users, helps manage screen time by reminding users of excessive app usage without restricting access. The launcher maintains a minimalist design with a vertically scrolling list of apps for easy navigation. The latest beta version is available for download, with updates rolling out to all users soon.

AppWizard

December 8, 2024

If Gboard is the best Android keyboard, why do I like this alternative so much?

Gboard is a popular keyboard for Android users due to its integration with Google's ecosystem and features. HeliBoard is an alternative minimalist keyboard that focuses on privacy and simplicity. Transitioning to HeliBoard requires some customization, which may not appeal to all users. HeliBoard offers customizable aesthetics, three keyboard styles, and a dynamic color palette. It allows easy language switching but may lack dictionary support for some languages. HeliBoard prioritizes a streamlined experience, enhancing speed and efficiency by removing unnecessary features, although it supports basic functionalities like word suggestions and gesture typing, which need manual activation. HeliBoard does not collect usage data, ensuring user privacy, unlike Gboard. However, it may have bugs and issues that could frustrate users, making it less reliable for everyday use. Other alternatives to Gboard include Florisboard, Microsoft SwiftKey, FUTO Keyboard, and Unexpected Keyboard.

AppWizard

November 27, 2024

Google could make lock screen notifications less obtrusive in Android 15 QPR2

Android 15 has introduced various notification management options, including viewing notifications through app icons, banners, and on the lock screen. Lock screen notifications in Android 15 are currently intrusive and take up significant space. The Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 has introduced a "Lock screen minimalism" option that reduces the visual footprint of notifications by displaying fewer notifications as small icons instead of full-size banners. This feature condenses notifications into a pill-shaped icon beneath the clock, allowing users to tap it to view the notification details. The feature can be toggled on or off in the settings but is still in development, with no confirmed release timeline or guarantee of inclusion in the official version of Android 15 QPR 2. There is speculation that it may appear in a future Pixel Feature Drop or Android 16.

AppWizard

November 13, 2024

Zerocam wants to be the cure to over-processed smartphone photography

Zerocam is an innovative camera app for Android that promotes a minimalist approach to photography, prioritizing authenticity over excessive enhancement. The app features a simple interface with a viewfinder and shutter button, aiming to counteract automatic enhancements typical of smartphone cameras. Users can take only five AI-free photos per day without a subscription, which offers full functionality. Comparisons with the Pixel 7 Pro show that Zerocam produces softer, warmer tones, contrasting with the sharper, more processed images from Google’s default camera settings. Zerocam is available for download on the Play Store.