mobile interface Archives

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

I love Steam Link, but this new streaming app is better in every way

Razer's Nexus app is a new alternative to Steam Link for local game streaming, featuring remote play functionality that requires the installation of both the Nexus app and the Razer Cortex app on the desktop. The setup process takes about five minutes, slightly longer than Steam Link. The Nexus app is based on Moonlight, an open-source streaming software, and offers enhanced performance by automatically adjusting settings for high-refresh-rate displays. It works well with PC Game Pass titles but has limitations with non-Steam games, which may require manual control adjustments. Users must create an account, and the app promotes paid games and includes display ads. Alternatives like Artemis/Apollo exist but require more complex installation.

AppWizard

November 11, 2024

YouTube reportedly tests a change that makes every video feel like Shorts

YouTube is testing new mobile gesture controls that allow users to scroll through recommended long-form content in full-screen mode, instead of using Picture-in-Picture (PIP) mode or returning to portrait orientation. This change is only available to a select group of users and aims to enhance viewer engagement, similar to the earlier introduced "jump ahead" feature, which helps users skip to compelling video segments. However, the new gesture modifications have not been well-received by some users who preferred the previous functionality.

AppWizard

August 20, 2024

Google may remove dedicated search button from its Android app – Times of India

Google is considering removing the search button from the Google app on Android devices, as indicated by an APK teardown of the latest beta version. This potential redesign may be influenced by user interaction data suggesting low engagement with the search button. Additionally, Google is introducing offline maps support for Wear OS smartwatches in Google Maps, allowing users to navigate without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection by downloading specific regions.

AppWizard

August 16, 2024

YouTube for Android testing a blurred bottom bar

YouTube is experimenting with a blurred bottom navigation bar on Android devices, featuring a compact design with text labels and simplified icons for key functions. The circular white outline around the plus button has been removed, and the design has transitioned from solid to translucent, allowing the background feed to show through. The navigation bar has increased in height to accommodate three buttons, enhancing visual impact. The blurred effect is less noticeable in the You tab with its dark background. This update follows a redesign of the miniplayer, and the rollout of the blurred bottom bar is still in early stages, not yet available on all devices.