Numerous commonly used Android applications, often appearing harmless, can contain malicious code that functions as spyware. These applications, which include phone cleaners, file managers, and wallpaper apps, can record screens, capture keystrokes, access microphones and cameras without consent, and transmit data to unknown servers. Uninstalling these apps may not eliminate the threat, as they can remain hidden. Users often grant unnecessary permissions to these apps, inadvertently allowing cybercriminals access to personal data. Recent cybersecurity assessments indicate a rise in mobile malware attacks, particularly in India, where weak enforcement and low awareness contribute to the problem. Spyware can drain device resources, leading to rapid battery depletion and lagging performance. Additionally, these apps can steal personal information, enabling identity theft and ongoing repercussions. Trusting apps solely based on their presence in the Play Store is a misconception, as modern spyware can bypass initial checks. To stay safe, users should verify developers, decline unnecessary permissions, conduct security scans, avoid third-party APKs, and keep their devices updated.
As of September 2025, the Android ecosystem offers a variety of applications aimed at enhancing productivity, customization, entertainment, and more. Key apps include:
Productivity Tools:
- Photo to Calendar: Converts photos/screenshots of schedules into calendar entries automatically.
- Compose PDF: Merges PDFs and images offline without watermarks or internet dependency.
- Forstop Helper: Manages device performance by force-stopping apps with a single tap.
Customization and Utility Apps:
- Installer X Revive: Advanced APK installer with features like auto-permissions and batch installations.
- Material Capsule: Turns camera cutouts into functional widgets for notifications and controls.
- Tap Tap Lock: Locks the phone with a tap gesture using an invisible widget.
- Nothing Glyphify: Enhances glyph light functionality for Nothing Phone users with customizable notification patterns.
- Icon Theming Hack: Aligns home screen icons with Material You themes using third-party icon packs.
Photo and Media Management:
- Photo Swooper: Organizes photos in the gallery using swipe-based actions.
- Convert It: Converts audio files across multiple formats.
Entertainment and Lifestyle:
- Awake: An interactive alarm clock requiring puzzle-solving to turn off.
- Score Peak: Displays live sports scores on the always-on display.
- Widgetify for Spotify: Customizes Spotify widgets for easy access to playlists and albums.
Creative Tools:
- Draw Anywhere: Allows annotation or drawing over any app or content on the screen.
Smart Home Integration:
- Edge Smart Things: Integrates smart home controls into the Samsung edge panel for easy access.
A new spyware campaign targeting Android users, identified as LunaSpy, has been reported by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky and is believed to have been operational since at least February 2025. This malware disguises itself as antivirus software delivered through messenger applications. It can record audio and video, access texts, call logs, and contacts, execute shell commands, steal passwords, track locations, and record the device screen. LunaSpy spreads primarily through messenger platforms like Telegram, where users receive messages urging them to install the app. Users are advised to download applications only from official sources like the Google Play Store and to be cautious with third-party sources. They should also block installations from unknown sources, review app permissions, and uninstall any suspicious applications immediately. A factory reset can remove malware if necessary, provided important data is backed up.
Apple announced a visual redesign called Liquid Glass, set to debut with macOS 26 Tahoe. This design features transparency effects in context and dropdown menus, system controls, and the Control Center, where elements exhibit a glass-like quality. The dock allows icons to have varying translucency, with options for classic, dark, clear, or tinted versions. However, some inconsistencies exist in the beta version, such as tinted icons lacking transparency. The glass effects are present in many of Apple's apps, with navigation panes on a glass-like surface and floating menu buttons that are translucent.
In comparison, Windows Vista's Aero Glass was noted for its impactful use of transparency in title bars and window borders, creating a sense of depth and enhancing user experience. Although Apple's Liquid Glass is meticulously designed, it may come across as too subtle compared to the more pronounced Aero Glass effects. The impressions of macOS 26 Tahoe are based on the initial developer beta, and improvements are expected before its public release later this fall.
Google Photos has introduced a feature to filter out unwanted content from third-party applications, aimed at decluttering the photo gallery. The new setting, “Show content from other apps,” allows users to manage the visibility of third-party content. Users can toggle “Hide clutter from other apps” to automatically filter out media types like GIFs and screenshots. Additionally, the “Customize by app” option enables users to specify preferences for each app, allowing them to hide or selectively display content. This update is part of version 7.14.0.720276279 of the Google Photos app.
