picture-in-picture Archives

AppWizard

November 27, 2025

PSA: Google has disabled the best YouTube app on Android TV, but for good reason

Google has disabled the SmartTube app on various Android TV devices, including NVIDIA Shield TV, Walmart Onn boxes, and certain Sony and TCL TVs, due to it being flagged by Google Play Protect. The app's developer, yuliskov, confirmed that the app's digital signature was compromised, prompting plans to transition to a new digital signature and app identifier. Users do not need to uninstall the existing version, but the new version will be released as a separate app requiring reconfiguration. Some users have suggested disabling Google Play Protect to regain access, but it is recommended to keep it enabled for security. The SmartTube app offers features like SponsorBlock support, live chat, picture-in-picture mode, and customizable video quality settings.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

6 Free Android TV Apps You Need To Install Before Google Removes Sideloading

Developers are now required to register their applications before users can sideload them on Android devices, a change aimed at reducing malware risks associated with unverified apps. This policy is particularly significant for Android TV users who often rely on sideloading for niche utilities and unofficial streaming tools. The risk of malware is reportedly 50 times higher when apps are installed from outside the Play Store. Google has promised to create a workflow for experienced users to sideload unverified apps despite the new restrictions. Sideloading allows users to install apps not available on the Play Store, but it comes with increased risks of data-stealing malware. Users can sideload apps by transferring APK files to their devices and adjusting settings to allow installations from unknown sources. SmartTube TV is an unofficial YouTube client that offers an ad-free experience and integrates features like SponsorBlock, but it violates YouTube's Terms of Service. Aptoide TV is a community-driven app marketplace that provides access to apps not available on the Play Store, though caution is advised due to potential malware risks. Leanback Launcher is an open-source launcher that enhances performance and customization options for Android TV. RetroArch allows users to emulate classic gaming consoles and requires legal copies of games. Syncler organizes and streams shows and movies from user-selected providers without hosting content itself. AdAway is an open-source ad blocker that filters ads at the device level using host files. The selection of these apps focuses on enhancing the Android TV experience through performance improvements, user-friendly interfaces, and a range of categories including streaming, gaming, customization, and privacy.

AppWizard

October 27, 2025

AppContext To Keep Apps Alive In Android

Google is set to enhance tablet multitasking in the upcoming Android Q release by introducing a new gesture that allows users to create a compact floating "bubble" window for any app. This feature will enable users to drag an app icon from the taskbar to the screen's bottom corners, facilitating a more seamless app-switching experience. The floating windows will allow various applications, such as browsers and note-taking tools, to float above the main workspace, enabling users to engage with multiple applications simultaneously, particularly on larger devices. This enhancement aims to improve the user experience on Android tablets and foldable devices by providing a more intuitive multitasking environment. The feature will utilize the Bubbles API and is expected to be rolled out for user testing as part of Google's quarterly platform release schedule.

AppWizard

October 19, 2025

SharePlay Makes Google Live Sharing Seem Beta

Apple's SharePlay is a system-level feature integrated into its operating system, allowing synchronized playback and control across various media platforms like Disney+, Max, Prime Video, and Apple Music. It offers low latency, reliable controls, and seamless transitions, enabling participants to engage effortlessly during FaceTime calls. In contrast, Google's Live Sharing in Meet is cumbersome, requiring multiple steps and often leading to uncertainty about audio consistency and user experience. SharePlay supports a wide range of applications and fosters natural group dynamics, while Google’s offerings are limited and fragmented across different platforms. Apple’s approach emphasizes a polished, cohesive experience, while Google needs to enhance integration and simplify access to improve its Live Sharing feature.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Windows 11 to get Android App continuity feature

Microsoft is testing a feature in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5761 that allows users to resume Android apps, starting with Spotify, on their PCs. When a user pauses playback on their Android device, a “Resume alert” appears on the Windows 11 taskbar, enabling automatic resumption of playback on the Spotify desktop app. If the app is not installed, it can be easily downloaded from the Microsoft Store. Users need to enable mobile device access on their PC, link their Android phone via the Link to Windows app, and ensure they are signed into the same Spotify account on both devices to utilize this feature. Microsoft is also inviting app developers to integrate with the Resume API for broader app continuity in the future. Additional enhancements in this build include new battery icons, touch gesture improvements, and various bug fixes.

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

I switched to this YouTube client and I’m never going back

YouTube has evolved into a platform filled with ads and a complex algorithm since its launch in the late 2000s. In response, many users have turned to NewPipe, an open-source streaming client developed in 2015, which offers a lightweight and efficient viewing experience without user data collection. NewPipe allows ad-free video playback, offline downloads, background playback, and picture-in-picture mode, while enabling users to create local playlists. However, it lacks features such as posting comments, YouTube Shorts, and algorithm-driven recommendations, which may limit content discovery. Although using NewPipe does not violate laws, it contravenes YouTube's terms of service, and while it eliminates ads, creators do not receive compensation through this platform. NewPipe is available on F-Droid and operates independently using publicly available data.

AppWizard

July 25, 2025

Google is fixing Meet’s messy invitations on Android (APK teardown)

Google is enhancing its Meet app for Android by simplifying the process of adding participants to calls. Users will soon be able to invite contacts by entering their email addresses or phone numbers, similar to the web version. The latest version of Google Meet includes an “Add others” button that opens a contacts page for inviting new participants. The ongoing call minimizes to a picture-in-picture view, and invited participants receive a standard incoming call notification. If they decline or do not answer, the label changes to “No answer,” and a button may allow existing participants to leave a video message together.

BetaBeacon

June 15, 2025

5 new mobile games to try this week

Meow Rangers is an idle RPG game where players auto-battle through evil invaders to restore peace to Cat Village, while assembling the titular rangers and building Meow Town.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

‘Screenbox’ Is a Sleek and Capable VLC-Based Video Player for Windows

Screenbox is a free and open-source video player designed for Windows 11, offering a user-friendly interface and extensive media format support. It is built on the LibVLCSharp framework, ensuring compatibility with all media formats supported by VLC. The application features a visually appealing interface with essential buttons, support for YouTube's keyboard shortcuts, picture-in-picture functionality, and a media library that includes default video and music folders with options to add more directories. Screenbox is suitable for both casual file playback and organization of media libraries.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Microsoft Edge Game Assist is now available

Microsoft Edge Game Assist is now available to all users on Windows 11, following its preview launch last November. It is an in-game browser designed specifically for PC gamers, allowing players to access game guides, connect with friends, and listen to music without leaving their games. Users can open Game Assist by pressing Win+G, which integrates features like tips for popular games, access to platforms like Discord and Spotify, and the ability to pin content above the game. The tool is designed to enhance multitasking and maintain immersion during gameplay. Feedback from the preview phase has led to improvements in the interface and functionality, including keyboard shortcuts and enhanced support for over 80 games. Game Assist is available wherever Microsoft Edge is accessible, with enhanced content currently offered in English only.