opt-out feature Archives

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Google Forces Gemini App Integration on Android, Sparking Widespread Privacy Fears

Google is rolling out an update to its Android operating system that allows its Gemini AI to access third-party applications by default, overriding users' previous privacy settings. This change, effective July 8, has led to confusion among users, as many received unclear email notifications regarding the update and how to disable the new feature. Google has stated that human reviewers may process app data, and conversations could be stored for up to 72 hours, even if users opt out of activity tracking. The update is part of Google's strategy to integrate Gemini more deeply into its ecosystem, replacing the Google Assistant with Gemini on mobile devices. The company plans to open its Gemini Nano model to third-party developers, further embedding AI into applications.

AppWizard

August 5, 2024

Edge-to-edge apps will be the new normal on Android 15, but with a temporary escape hatch

Google is requiring applications on Android 15 to adopt an edge-to-edge design, which extends app content to the screen's edges, including beneath the status and navigation bars. To support developers in this transition, Google has introduced tools and guidelines, warning that non-compliant apps may face display issues. A hidden API, windowOptOutEdgeToEdgeEnforcement, allows developers to temporarily bypass this requirement, but its availability may be limited in future Android versions. The edge-to-edge design aims to enhance immersion on larger screens, aligning with broader trends in operating system design. However, challenges exist for developers whose apps were not initially designed for this functionality, prompting Google to provide resources for necessary adjustments. The future of edge-to-edge design on Android is uncertain, as the opt-out API may delay full adoption while giving developers time to adapt.

Winsage

June 25, 2024

Microsoft now forces automatic OneDrive backups — feature enabled during clean Windows installs, users surprised with desktop icons and files | Tom’s Hardware

Microsoft has made OneDrive backups an opt-out feature, unlike Apple and Google which offer online backups as opt-in features. This move has left users surprised when completing a clean Windows 11 install. Microsoft has also removed official instructions on how to convert a Windows 11 Microsoft Account login into a local account. Despite these issues, OneDrive remains an affordable and robust cloud storage option.