photo sharing Archives

AppWizard

June 13, 2025

Pixel Camera update may have killed this handy sharing feature

Google's recent update to the Pixel Camera app (version 9.9.106.767010485.16) has removed the Social Share shortcut, a feature present since the Pixel 4 series in 2019. This shortcut allowed users to quickly share photos via a menu after capturing an image. Reports confirm its absence in the new update, and personal testing on a Pixel 7 Pro supports this finding. While the feature aimed to streamline sharing, some users found it unrefined and lacking support for popular platforms like WhatsApp. Additionally, a new educational hub within the camera app was expected but has not yet been implemented. User feedback on the removal of the Social Share shortcut has been mixed, with a poll showing that while some users relied on it, many did not find it useful.

AppWizard

March 6, 2025

Partner Sharing support for third-party app images returns to Google Photos

Google is reinstating automatic third-party photo content sharing through Partner Sharing in the Photos app, allowing users to include content from other Android apps. This feature was removed to reduce clutter but is returning due to user feedback. The update will enable users to see their screenshots and images from other apps in their partner's view if enabled. Additionally, Google has introduced a Collections tab to streamline access to albums and is testing an AI-based feature called "Ask Photos" for enhanced photo management.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Messenger rolls out new safety, useful, and fun features

Meta has updated Messenger with new features focusing on privacy, usability, and enjoyment. Privacy and safety updates include the View Once Media option for single-view media messages, screenshot and screen recording blocks, in-app scam alerts via Spam Protection, and streamlined reporting and blocking of suspicious contacts. Usability improvements consist of HD photo sharing, enhanced HD video calls, noise-suppressed audio for clearer calls, and Siri integration for easier navigation. Expressive features allow users to personalize chats with themes, add music to notes, and use new sticker packs, including the Butterbear stickers. Social features encourage community building through Messenger Communities, enabling topic-based chats via QR codes, and engaging with public figures through Broadcast Channels.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Google Photos is getting ready to roll out its new ‘Quick Edit’ sharing feature

Google is testing a new feature called the “Quick Edit” page in the Google Photos app, which activates when users tap the share button on a single image. This feature includes an “Enhance” button for one-click improvements and a cropping tool for easy adjustments. The “Quick Edit” page is only available for single photos; selecting multiple images will revert to the traditional share sheet. Reports of this feature emerged from a user named Alex using a Pixel 6 Pro, and it is still in the testing phase. Additionally, some users have noticed a new floating toolbar for albums.

AppWizard

November 21, 2024

Messenger Updates Display of Multi-Image Uploads In-Stream

Messenger has introduced a new feature that allows users to display multiple photos as stacked thumbnails in chat streams. Tapping on these thumbnails reveals a comprehensive view of all images, enabling likes and comments directly from this interface. This update builds on the Shared Album option introduced earlier for group chats, expanding the photo display functionality to all chat interactions. The enhancement aims to foster a more interactive environment and increase user engagement within the app. The update is currently being rolled out in the latest version of Messenger.

AppWizard

November 18, 2024

These are the 10 best Android apps of 2024

Google has selected the best apps of 2024, highlighting various Android applications in the Play Store. - Best Event Planning App: Partiful allows users to create and manage events, facilitating RSVP, guest interaction, polls, and group messaging. - Best Multi-device App: Max is recognized for its versatility across smartphones, tablets, and Google TV, offering a rich selection of shows and movies. - Best for Personal Growth: UpStudy – Camera Math Solver provides step-by-step explanations for math problems and quizzes in various subjects. - Best for Fun: Mila by Camilla Lorentzen offers enjoyable workout routines tailored to users' moods and fitness levels, with a subscription model after a 7-day free trial. - Best Everyday Essential: MacroFactor – Macro Tracker simplifies food intake tracking with food scanning and personalized coaching algorithms, transitioning to a paid model after a trial period. - Best Hidden Gem: Timeleft organizes users into small groups for weekly dinners based on personality compatibility, though it has limitations regarding restaurant selection and city availability. - Best for Large Screens: Infinite Painter is a drawing tool designed for tablets and foldable phones, offering both free and paid options. - Best for Watches: Baby Daybook – Newborn Tracker helps new parents monitor their baby's activities with a free version and premium features for enhanced usability. - Best for Google TV: Peacock TV: Stream TV & Movies features a variety of content from NBCUniversal. - Best for Cars: PBS KIDS Video provides a safe and educational platform for children, currently available only in the United States due to licensing restrictions.

AppWizard

November 14, 2024

Google Photos drops Partner Sharing support for photos from other Android apps

Google Photos has updated its Partner Sharing feature to exclude photos from third-party Android applications. This change was confirmed in a support document update. Partner Sharing allows users to automatically share images based on specific criteria, but it will no longer apply to unedited screenshots or images from other Android apps. Users cannot bypass this restriction by altering the photo's origin in the app, although edited screenshots can still be shared. The reason for this change is unclear, but it may relate to enhancing user privacy. Google has not communicated this update to users within the Photos app, and those using Partner Sharing have not received notifications about it.

AppWizard

November 11, 2024

How Do Californians Use Messaging Apps

Messaging apps are essential for personal and professional communication in California. WhatsApp, with 2.7 billion global users, is popular for its free messaging, voice, and video calling, especially among immigrants due to its end-to-end encryption. Telegram has 950 million monthly active users and is favored for its security features, large group chats, and file-sharing capabilities; it is also used by online casino gamers for anonymous gaming and integrated bots. iMessage, with 1.3 billion global users, is preferred by Apple users for its seamless integration and security features. Facebook Messenger has over 1 billion users and is widely used for casual conversations and customer service, aided by automated chatbots and payment functionalities. Signal, with over 40 million monthly active users, is chosen for its strong privacy features, appealing to journalists and activists.

AppWizard

November 8, 2024

Google wants to bring RAW photo support to more third-party camera apps

Smartphone photography is evolving, with many users seeking to enhance their photos despite being satisfied with default images. The limitations of JPEG format restrict editing potential, prompting an upcoming update to the Jetpack CameraX library that will support RAW photo capture. RAW photography preserves unprocessed image data, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing, though it results in larger file sizes compared to JPEG. Editing RAW photos requires time and expertise, which is why many Android camera apps do not default to this option. Historically, the Jetpack CameraX library only supported JPEG image capture, while the Android Camera2 API offered RAW capabilities. The recent release of CameraX version 1.5.0-alpha03 introduces two new output formats: OUTPUTFORMATRAW for single RAW images and OUTPUTFORMATRAW_JPEG for simultaneous capture of RAW and JPEG images, with RAW images saved in Adobe DNG format. This support for RAW photography marks a significant shift in CameraX's functionality, likely expanding creative possibilities for third-party apps.

AppWizard

September 19, 2024

Garmin introduces inReach Messenger Plus SOS satellite communicator with photo and voice messaging, expanding your ability to stay in touch beyond cell service | GRMN Stock News

Garmin has launched the inReach® Messenger Plus, a two-way satellite communicator that enables global two-way texting, photo sharing, and voice messaging for adventurers. The device features a rugged, temperature-resistant design with a long battery life, allowing for independent use or pairing with the Garmin Messenger™ app for group texting and multimedia sharing. In emergencies, it can send an interactive SOS message to Garmin Response℠. Key features include photo sharing, 30-second voice messages, two-way group texts, route sharing, off-grid navigation, and weather updates. The device is available for a suggested retail price of 9.99, with monthly satellite subscription plans starting at .99.