Pixel 8 Archives

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

Microsoft’s overlooked Android launcher showed me everything Pixel Launcher is missing

Microsoft Launcher is an Android launcher developed by Microsoft, offering extensive customization options that surpass those of the default Pixel Launcher. It features up to ten customizable gesture options for enhanced usability, particularly for one-handed operation. The launcher includes a component called Your feed, which consists of Glance and News; Glance allows users to curate a personalized experience with scrollable cards from Microsoft apps, while the News section serves as a shortcut to MSN News but is criticized for excessive ads. Users can customize the home screen layout by removing or rearranging default widgets, and the app drawer has a spacious 5×8 grid layout with an alphabetical jump list. However, users may experience occasional animation glitches typical of third-party launchers on Pixel devices. Overall, Microsoft Launcher is considered a superior option for Pixel users seeking more features and customization.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Google rolls out a quick March security patch to join its big Pixel update

In March 2025, Google began rolling out a security update for eligible Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series to Pixel 9, Pixel Fold, 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel Tablet. The update versions are BP1A.250305.019 for Pixel 6, 7, 8, and Fold, and BP1A.250305.020 for Pixel 9 series and Tablet. The update addresses various issues, enhancing display stability and performance, and includes fixes for camera and WebView stability. An audio issue with Bluetooth call volume is resolved, except for the Pixel 6 series. The changelog includes fixes for launcher theme misalignment, transparent home screen icons, app-switching issues with third-party launchers, and themed icon display problems. The update also introduces nine high-severity framework fixes and 21 system fixes for security, including two notable vulnerabilities. The rollout started on March 4, following a Pixel feature drop that added functionalities like Loss of Pulse detection and scam detection alerts.

AppWizard

February 26, 2025

Qualcomm and Google just announced a major update to Android updates

Qualcomm has partnered with Google to provide up to eight years of software updates for devices with Snapdragon 8 and 7 series chipsets. Devices like the OnePlus 13, Samsung Galaxy S25 series, Xiaomi 15, Honor Magic 7 Pro, and Asus ROG Phone 9 will receive this extended support. Google's Pixel 8 series will offer seven years of updates with its Tensor chipsets. The implementation of these updates is determined by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Samsung and OnePlus. Qualcomm aims to enhance user experiences and provide flexibility for OEMs, potentially allowing mid-range devices with 7-series chips to receive similar support as premium models. Older devices without the latest chipsets will not benefit from this initiative. Qualcomm will continue to work with OEMs to support legacy platforms.

AppWizard

February 23, 2025

These apps aren’t on the Play Store, but I always sideload them on my Pixel

Google Pixel users are increasingly sideloading applications from third-party repositories, enhancing their devices' functionality. The Smartspacer app improves the At a Glance widget by integrating with third-party apps and Google services, offering advanced control and enhancing the Always-On Display. Smartspacer is available on GitHub, along with various plugins. Obtanium helps users manage and update sideloaded apps, providing a centralized hub for tracking updates, and is accessible on GitHub and F-Droid. Breezy Weather is a highly regarded weather app that offers customizable features and integrates well with Pixel's design, available on F-Droid and GitHub, and can also be updated using Obtanium.

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Streets of Rage 4, Super Onion Boy 2, Botanicula, more

The Google Play store is offering discounts on various Android games and apps, along with significant price reductions on Pixel devices. The Pixel 9 Pro is available at a [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a vibrant display of digital offerings, today's selection of Android game and app deals presents an enticing opportunity for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. The Google Play store is buzzing with discounts, complemented by significant price reductions on Pixel devices that are sure to catch the eye of many consumers. Pixel Device Discounts Among the standout deals, the Pixel 9 Pro is available at a remarkable 0 off, while the Pixel 8 sees a generous 0 discount. For those looking for even greater savings, the Pixel 7 Pro is now 0 less than its original price. This array of discounts extends to the Pixel Tablet, which starts at an appealing 9, alongside attractive offers on official Pixel 9 cases. Game and App Highlights On the gaming front, a selection of popular titles is now available at reduced prices. Notable mentions include: Streets of Rage 4 Super Onion Boy 2 Botanicula Samorost 3 CHUCHEL These games, among others, are perfect for those looking to enhance their gaming library without straining their wallets. For a more detailed look at these enticing offers, interested parties are encouraged to explore further." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] discount, the Pixel 8 has a [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a vibrant display of digital offerings, today's selection of Android game and app deals presents an enticing opportunity for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. The Google Play store is buzzing with discounts, complemented by significant price reductions on Pixel devices that are sure to catch the eye of many consumers. Pixel Device Discounts Among the standout deals, the Pixel 9 Pro is available at a remarkable 0 off, while the Pixel 8 sees a generous 0 discount. For those looking for even greater savings, the Pixel 7 Pro is now 0 less than its original price. This array of discounts extends to the Pixel Tablet, which starts at an appealing 9, alongside attractive offers on official Pixel 9 cases. Game and App Highlights On the gaming front, a selection of popular titles is now available at reduced prices. Notable mentions include: Streets of Rage 4 Super Onion Boy 2 Botanicula Samorost 3 CHUCHEL These games, among others, are perfect for those looking to enhance their gaming library without straining their wallets. For a more detailed look at these enticing offers, interested parties are encouraged to explore further." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] discount, and the Pixel 7 Pro is now [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a vibrant display of digital offerings, today's selection of Android game and app deals presents an enticing opportunity for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. The Google Play store is buzzing with discounts, complemented by significant price reductions on Pixel devices that are sure to catch the eye of many consumers. Pixel Device Discounts Among the standout deals, the Pixel 9 Pro is available at a remarkable 0 off, while the Pixel 8 sees a generous 0 discount. For those looking for even greater savings, the Pixel 7 Pro is now 0 less than its original price. This array of discounts extends to the Pixel Tablet, which starts at an appealing 9, alongside attractive offers on official Pixel 9 cases. Game and App Highlights On the gaming front, a selection of popular titles is now available at reduced prices. Notable mentions include: Streets of Rage 4 Super Onion Boy 2 Botanicula Samorost 3 CHUCHEL These games, among others, are perfect for those looking to enhance their gaming library without straining their wallets. For a more detailed look at these enticing offers, interested parties are encouraged to explore further." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] less than its original price. The Pixel Tablet starts at , and there are attractive offers on official Pixel 9 cases. Popular games on sale include Streets of Rage 4, Super Onion Boy 2, Botanicula, Samorost 3, and CHUCHEL.

AppWizard

February 7, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Evergreen, Bloons TD 6, Ace Attorney Trilogy, more

Samsung's Galaxy S25 launch day features discounts on various Android applications, including "Evergreen: The Board Game," "Bloons TD 6," "Ace Attorney Trilogy," and "MEGA MAN X DiVE." Additionally, the Ultimate Android Gaming Controller from 8BitDo is available at a reduced price, and Amazon has launched a new full-color Kindle reader. There are also new configurations for the Google Pixel 8 with a discount.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Floating Multitasking, Viewport, Heroes of Loot 2, more

Significant price reductions are available on the Samsung Galaxy S25, S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra models. Consumers can also receive exclusive credit and enter to win a complimentary set of Galaxy Buds Pro 3. The Galaxy Tab S10+ has a substantial price drop. The unlocked Google Pixel 8 Pro is available with enticing discounts. Featured apps include Viewport – The Game, Heroes of Loot 2, Positional, and Floating Multitasking.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Recap: Pixel updates, Feature Drops, and new apps in 2024

In 2024, Made by Google released multiple updates for the Pixel phone, introducing new features and enhancing existing functionalities across six updates. - January Feature Drop: Launched with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, it included the Pixel Thermometer app for forehead temperature readings, Circle to Search, and the rebranding of Quick Share from Nearby Share. - March Feature Drop: Introduced with Android 14 QPR2, it featured an expandable Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile, a Material You volume slider, new casting options, and a "Hello?" button for the Call Screen feature. The Pixel Tablet received the Gboard Voice Toolbar. - June Feature Drop: Marked by the early launch of the Pixel 8a, it introduced Audio Emoji, Display Port Support for external screens, Gemini Nano technology, and camera improvements for various Pixel models. The Android 14 QPR3 update focused on minor tweaks. - Pixel 9 Series Launch: Debuted alongside Android 14, backporting features from the Android 15 Beta. Introduced three new applications: Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, and Pixel Weather, along with Gemini Live and on-device Call Notes. - Android 15/October Drop: Introduced Android 15 with a Private Space option, Predictive Back functionality, a redesigned screenshot interface, underwater photography capabilities for the Pixel 9 series, and an enhanced Adaptive Vibration feature. - December Drop: Included Android 15 QPR1 with a Material You redesign for Settings, charging optimization, enhancements to the Pixel Screenshots app, a clear voice feature for the Pixel Recorder, broader rollout of contextual replies for Gemini, and Dual Screen Portrait Mode for foldable devices. Google extended Android OS updates for the Pixel 6 and 7 series.

AppWizard

December 17, 2024

Google urges Android developers to prep for 16 KB memory page

Android developers are preparing for a transition to a 16 KB memory page size, expected to improve performance by 5–10% across applications and games. Google has introduced developer options for testing on Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 devices, with support from other OEMs like Samsung and Xiaomi anticipated. Developers using native code must assess and rebuild their apps, ensuring compatibility with the new page size by upgrading to Android Gradle Plugin version 8.5.1 or later and using NDK version r28 or later. Applications without native code will remain compatible without modification. Testing for compatibility can be done using emulators or physical devices like the Pixel 8/8 Pro and future Pixel 9 models. Developers are advised to avoid hardcoding assumptions about memory page sizes to prevent compatibility issues.

AppWizard

December 17, 2024

Android 15 QPR2 Beta 2 is here with our first look at the working Linux Terminal app

Google has released Android 15 QPR2 Beta 2 for testers in the Android Beta Program, which includes bug fixes and new features. The update is available for devices such as Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8, Pixel 9, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet, with a build number of BP11.241121.010. Notable bug fixes include resolving access issues in developer settings, fixing connectivity problems with glucose sensors, addressing call placement delays, enabling charging optimization settings, correcting null pointer issues, improving responsiveness on the Pixel Fold, enhancing audio transitions, and resolving Bluetooth connection failures. The Linux Terminal app is now functional, allowing users to run Linux instances, and features like notification cooldowns have been introduced. Users can provide feedback through the Android Beta Feedback app or the official subreddit.