music streaming Archives

Winsage

May 22, 2026

Finally, a Great Free Radio App for Windows

Many music enthusiasts still prefer traditional radio for its human touch and curated playlists, which introduce hidden gems that algorithm-driven platforms may miss. Stations like KEXP, Indie XFM, and SomaFM offer commercial-free experiences for exploring new sounds. Trdo is a free, open-source application for Windows that enhances the online radio listening experience. Users can download it from the Microsoft Store and add their favorite stations through a search tool or by manually entering PLS file links. The app features an intuitive interface for playback control from the system tray, tracks recently played songs, and allows users to tag favorites. It also provides links to popular music services like Spotify and YouTube Music, facilitating transitions from radio to curated playlists.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Android Auto to get a major design change, widgets, better music apps

At the Google I/O 2026 event, Google introduced an updated version of Android Auto, featuring a new design that adapts to various display sizes and supports widgets. The interface will utilize the Material 3 Expressive design, allowing personalized fonts and wallpapers from Galaxy phones. A floating app row will be positioned based on the steering wheel's location, and the interface will overlay Google Maps for integrated navigation. The updated Android Auto can display air conditioning controls if supported by the vehicle and allows users to place widgets like Clock, Contacts, Google Home, Photos, and Weather on the infotainment screen. It will also support video streaming from platforms like YouTube when parked, with Full HD resolution and up to 60fps. This feature will be available in select vehicles from manufacturers including BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo. The music streaming interface will be redesigned with tabs at the top and will support Dolby Atmos in compatible vehicles. Popular music streaming services like Amazon Music, Gaana, PocketFM, Spotify, TuneIn, and YouTube Music will adopt this new design, with functionalities depending on device compatibility.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

Android 17 cracks down on shady apps that play surprise background audio

Google is enhancing the audio experience on its Android 17 platform by implementing "Background Audio Hardening," which introduces stricter regulations for applications that play audio in the background. Under new guidelines, apps must either be actively displayed on the user’s screen or use an approved foreground service for audio functions. Android 17 will restrict apps from initiating audio playback automatically at device startup, and non-compliant apps may have their audio actions prevented without an error message. Mainstream media applications are expected to operate normally if developers follow the recommended playback systems, and alarms and timers will remain unaffected by these restrictions.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

Android Auto gets a fresh take on Google Maps navigation, teases more Gemini at the Android Show

The Android Show 2026 has introduced significant enhancements for Android Auto, including an edge-to-edge experience for Google Maps and a new Immersive Navigation update featuring a dynamic 3D view. A comprehensive Material 3 Expressive redesign for the vehicle operating system has been announced, improving the user interface. Popular music streaming services like YouTube Music and Spotify will also receive visual updates. Gemini Intelligence will be integrated into vehicles, assisting drivers with text messages and allowing them to order food through DoorDash. Vehicles with Google built-in will receive the same updates, including video-to-audio transitions and Immersive Navigation enhancements. The rollout of Gemini is currently underway for cars with Google built-in technology.

AppWizard

May 2, 2026

Massive new Xbox Ally X update brings major changes to the Steam Deck’s handheld rival

The latest update for the Xbox Ally X introduces several enhancements, including improved docked usage, expanded game library support, and automatic upscaling through Auto Super Resolution. The handheld now automatically transitions gameplay to a connected display, disables its own screen to conserve resources, and activates Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh Rate settings on compatible displays. Users can adjust external display settings via the Game Bar overlay without exiting games. Controller pairing has been improved, with handheld controls disabled when a controller is connected. The left thumbstick can now function as a cursor for navigating applications that do not support controller input. Auto Super Resolution allows games to run at 720p but output at 1440p on external displays. The update also enhances support for the Xbox Wireless Headset and Bluetooth LE Audio, improves haptic feedback, and allows users to add custom game links in the Xbox app for easier access to games.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

New ROG Xbox Ally Updates: Docking Improvements, Auto SR Preview, Collective Library, Enhanced Vibration, and More

Six months ago, ASUS and AMD launched the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in 45 countries, combining Xbox capabilities with Windows 11 in a portable format. Player feedback has led to continual updates, optimizing hundreds of games for handheld play and introducing features like Default Game Profiles and expanded Xbox mode. Recent updates include automatic gameplay transition to TV when docked, support for HDR10 and Variable Refresh Rate on certain docks, a Display Widget for adjusting settings via the Game Bar, improved controller pairing, and the Gamepad Cursor feature for non-controller supported applications. Automatic Super Resolution is now in preview for Xbox Insiders on the ROG Xbox Ally X, enhancing visual quality. The Xbox Wireless Headset now supports Bluetooth LE Audio for reduced latency and improved battery life. The Xbox PC app has been revamped to consolidate games from various storefronts into one library. Over 1,000 PC games are now compatible with handheld play, and features like Default Game Profiles and Advanced Shader Delivery have been introduced. Popular games supporting these features include Ninja Gaiden 4, Grounded 2, and others, with more titles expected in the future.

AppWizard

April 27, 2026

Spotify drives engagement the right way, expands into ‘Fitness’ with Peloton

Spotify is expanding into fitness by launching a dedicated hub for both free and Premium users, featuring guided workouts from established wellness creators, including yoga classes. Premium users will also benefit from a partnership with Peloton in select markets. Nearly 70% of Spotify's Premium users work out monthly, and the platform has over 150 million active fitness playlists worldwide. The new fitness hub aims to enhance users' workout experiences with curated guided sessions.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

Spotify rolls out redesigned app for tablets, works on most foldables too [Gallery]

Spotify has redesigned its tablet app, now available to all users, enhancing the experience for tablets and select Android foldable devices. The new design features a dedicated "Now Playing" panel on the right side of the screen and a transformed bottom navigation bar divided into two sections for improved accessibility. The redesign is compatible with certain foldable devices, including the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Honor Magic V6, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, while some devices like the Oppo Find N6 are not supported due to optimization challenges. Additionally, Spotify launched a revamped Wear OS app earlier this year.

AppWizard

April 2, 2026

Fire TV Stick users left confused by ‘random app’ on device

A new app called 'Music Videos' has automatically appeared on Amazon Fire Stick devices in the UK, raising concerns among users who did not install it. Amazon confirmed that it pre-installs apps to enhance user experience and promote ad-supported content. The app offers quick access to music videos, but users have reported issues with it freezing and being unable to uninstall it. Amazon stated that the Fire TV experience aims to facilitate access to entertainment options and that 'Music Videos' is part of their strategy to provide more free content to users.

AppWizard

March 30, 2026

YouTube is rolling out support for Android Auto, but there are quite a few catches with it — and it could be another way to get you to sign up to Premium

YouTube has introduced support for Android Auto, allowing users to integrate the platform with their vehicle's dashboard, but with restrictions. Users can only access audio content, similar to music streaming services, as video playback is not available. Playback controls are limited; users cannot skip ahead within a video, only to the next item in the playlist. A YouTube Premium subscription is required to use this feature, with the cheapest option being the YouTube Premium Lite plan at .99/£7.99/AU.99 per month.