mobile applications Archives

AppWizard

May 19, 2025

Mobile apps to continue your birding

Deb Nofzinger and Dave Wilkins recommend several mobile applications for birding enthusiasts, including eBird and Merlin Bird ID, both associated with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. eBird operates on a donation model and allows users to maintain detailed bird lists, track sightings, and utilize a Hotspot function for prime birding locations. It has recorded 149 species at Earth Heart Farms since its addition, with 78 species identified this year. Wilkins has completed 239 checklists at Creek Bend Farm Park and observed 137 species there. The Merlin Bird ID app offers a sound identification feature for 1,382 bird species and is noted for its accuracy in familiar environments. Other suggested apps include BirdCast for migration updates and the Sibley Birds v2 app, priced at .99.

Winsage

May 18, 2025

It just got way easier to control your Android phone from your Windows PC

Microsoft is adding a Phone Link panel to the start menu of Windows 11 to improve the user experience for managing Android devices. The panel provides an overview of the Android device's status, including connection status and battery level, and features direct access buttons for Messages, Calls, and Photos. It includes a 'Recent' section for the latest phone calls, text messages, and images, while notifications can be received as banners. The Phone Link app can also stream Android apps to Windows 11 PCs, with file transfer capabilities through a 'send files' button. This feature is being rolled out to all Windows 11 users after being available to Beta and Dev channel users for several months.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Google’s ML Kit GenAI APIs with Gemini Nano: On-Device AI for Privacy-Preserving Android Apps

Google announced on May 14, 2025, the expansion of its ML Kit offerings with new GenAI APIs powered by the Gemini Nano model, aimed at providing Android developers with access to advanced AI features while ensuring user privacy through on-device processing. The ML Kit GenAI APIs include four key capabilities: summarization, proofreading, rewriting, and image description. These APIs process data locally, keeping user data on the device, ensuring consistent functionality without internet connectivity, and avoiding recurring server costs. This development enhances the accessibility of sophisticated AI capabilities for Android developers and aligns with consumer privacy concerns. The architecture allows for future expansion of capabilities as Gemini models evolve.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

Google Maps has stopped showing alternate routes on app, Android Auto for some

Users are currently unable to view alternate routes on Google Maps for both mobile applications and Android Auto, a functionality that typically shows faster or slower route options. This issue has been reported by numerous users on forums and social media, and tests confirm that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold also does not display these suggestions when connected to Android Auto. The cause of the problem is unclear but may be related to recent software updates. There are also reports of lagging issues with Google Maps on CarPlay, although it is uncertain if the alternate route problem affects that platform.

Tech Optimizer

May 15, 2025

Neon Serverless Postgres: Azure Native Integration Now Available

Microsoft and Neon have launched Neon Serverless Postgres as a native integration within the Azure ecosystem, following its initial preview in December 2024. This open-source, serverless database solution is positioned as an alternative to AWS Aurora Postgres. Key features include automatic scaling, branching capabilities, direct database connection from Azure, Azure CLI and SDK support, and Semantic Kernel integration for RAG pipelines. Microsoft has invested millions in Neon as part of a broader funding round to enhance collaboration. Neon’s platform includes autoscaling, branching, and point-in-time restore capabilities, specifically designed for AI applications. EnterpriseDB has appointed Nancy Hensley as Chief Product Officer to lead growth for its EDB Postgres AI platform, which supports various workloads and modernizes legacy systems. Additionally, companies are increasingly adopting passwordless authentication methods, with MojoAuth offering solutions that integrate into applications to enhance security and user experience.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

APK Full Form in Android: Explained for Gamers and App Lovers

APK stands for Android Application Package, which is a file format essential for distributing, installing, and managing mobile applications on the Android platform. An APK contains all the necessary code, resources, and instructions for an app to run on Android devices. Key components of an APK include DEX files (app code), assets and resources (images, sounds, layouts), certificates and security signatures (for verification), and the AndroidManifest.xml file (which outlines permissions and components). When an app is installed, the APK is unpacked, permissions are granted, and its integrity is verified through digital signatures. APK files support various applications and games, allowing for manual installations and updates, and they ensure universal compatibility across devices. Users can adjust security settings to allow installations from unknown sources, but Android restricts this by default for safety.

AppWizard

May 12, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Superbrothers Sword & Sworcery, FRAMED 2, Lichtspeer, more

The Google Play Store is offering daily deals on Android games and apps. Notable promotions include: - Free 2x storage upgrades for Galaxy S25/Ultra owners. - TCL QM7K 144Hz Mini-LED Google Smart TVs at all-time low prices. - Samsung Galaxy Watch FE in silver available for [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Daily Deals on Android Games and Apps The Google Play Store has unveiled an enticing array of daily deals, showcasing some of the finest Android games and applications available. As you explore these offerings, take a moment to consider a few notable promotions currently making waves in the tech community. FREE 2x Storage Upgrades: Owners of the Galaxy S25/Ultra can rejoice with a generous 0 discount on storage upgrades, enhancing their device's capabilities without any additional cost. TCL QM7K 144Hz Mini-LED Google Smart TVs: The latest models have reached new all-time low prices, making them an attractive option for those looking to elevate their home entertainment experience. Samsung Galaxy Watch FE: The stylish silver variant is now available for just 0, offering a blend of functionality and fashion at an accessible price point. Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ Lineup: This new series is seeing some of the best prices to date, appealing to both productivity enthusiasts and casual users alike. In the realm of applications, several standout titles are capturing attention: Superbrothers Sword & Sworcery: An artistic adventure that combines stunning visuals with an engaging narrative. FRAMED 2: A unique puzzle game that challenges players to rearrange comic book panels to progress through the story. Lichtspeer: A quirky action game that blends humor and skill in a vibrant, fast-paced environment. realMyst: A mobile adaptation of the classic adventure game, inviting players to explore a beautifully rendered world. These deals and app highlights present an excellent opportunity for users to enhance their digital experiences while enjoying significant savings. Be sure to check back regularly for the latest updates and offerings from the Google Play Store." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"]. - Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ lineup at some of the best prices to date. Highlighted applications include: - Superbrothers Sword & Sworcery, an artistic adventure game. - FRAMED 2, a puzzle game involving comic book panels. - Lichtspeer, a quirky action game. - realMyst, a mobile adaptation of the classic adventure game.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

Huawei unveils a HarmonyOS laptop, its first Windows-free computer

Huawei Technologies has launched its first laptop powered by HarmonyOS, following the expiration of its Microsoft Windows license in March. The laptop features HarmonyOS 5 and includes an AI assistant named Celia, which can create presentation slides, summarize meeting minutes, and retrieve information from local documents. It supports various software applications, including WPS and DingTalk, and is expected to integrate with over 2,000 mobile applications available on HarmonyOS smartphones by the end of the year.

AppWizard

April 25, 2025

M&S ‘truly sorry’ as it pauses online and app orders following cyber attack

M&S is addressing a cyber incident affecting its operations, which has led to customer reports of payment difficulties and order delays. The retailer has implemented minor changes to store operations and has suspended contactless payments and click and collect services. Additionally, M&S has halted all orders through its website and mobile applications, while customers can still browse products online. A spokesperson stated that a team, supported by cyber experts, is working to restore online and app shopping. Customers are being kept informed, and the stores remain open.

AppWizard

April 24, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Heroes of Steel, Romancing SaGa 3, Star Traders, more

This afternoon features deals on Android games and applications, coinciding with price reductions on the Final Fantasy series. Google’s 45mm Pixel Watch 3 is available, and Samsung is offering free 2x storage upgrades on the Galaxy S25 and S25 Ultra. Notable mobile applications include Heroes of Steel, Romancing SaGa 3, and Star Traders: Frontiers. Additional stock of the Switch 2 is expected shortly.