Pixel devices Archives

AppWizard

November 7, 2024

Gmail ‘Suddenly’ Stops Working—New Warning As Google Update Goes Wrong

Pixel users are experiencing significant app malfunctions on Android 15, particularly with Gmail, due to issues stemming from a recent Google Play update. Many users report that their devices indicate "Google Play Services is not supported," rendering both first and third-party applications inoperative. Error messages related to Google Play Services being unavailable or outdated have been noted, and the problems may extend beyond Pixel devices. Users have attempted various troubleshooting steps, including factory resets, with mixed results. Some users are advised to opt out of the Google Play services beta and restart their devices, but this solution has not been universally effective.

AppWizard

November 4, 2024

Android apps break due to Google Play services ‘not supported’ error

A number of Pixel device owners are experiencing issues with Google Play services, which is displaying a message that it is “not supported by your device.” This malfunction affects both first and third-party applications, rendering them inoperable on Android 15 stable and QPR1 Beta versions. Popular applications like Gmail are unable to function, and the Discover feed is also impacted. The Play Store is returning an error message indicating that Google Play Services is not available or too old. The issue may extend beyond Pixel devices to other Android users. Some users speculate that the problem may be related to the Google Play services beta program. Suggested troubleshooting steps include opting out of the beta program, restarting devices, and updating to the latest stable version of Play services, though these solutions have not worked for everyone. Some users have resolved the issue by performing a factory reset.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

Pixel phones are getting an actual weather app in 2024, with a bit of AI

Google's Weather app features an AI-generated weather report that provides concise summaries, such as "Cold and rainy day, bring your umbrella and hold onto your hat!" The app includes a weather radar for real-time precipitation insights and "Nowcasting" capabilities that predict short-term weather changes. Users can customize the display by rearranging data like UV index and humidity, but the app's data widgets are large, requiring scrolling to see the full daily forecast. The AI summary and 10-day forecast are fixed at the top, limiting personalization. Pollen data is unavailable for allergy sufferers in regions like the US, and some whimsical features, like a frog icon, are missing. Users have criticized the app for requiring saved locations to view weather conditions, integration issues with other Google apps, and aesthetic concerns regarding the weather map and app visibility.

AppWizard

October 24, 2024

Android 15’s QPR1 Beta 3 is finally here with system crash and foldable fixes

Google has released Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 for enrolled testers with eligible Pixel devices, addressing a blank screen issue on foldable devices and improving Bluetooth functionality. The update is available for Pixel 6 to Pixel 9 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel Tablet, with version AP41.240925.009. Notable fixes include resolving Bluetooth volume control issues, complications with profile switching, and a blank screen problem when unfolding certain devices. Additional fixes address truncated notifications, system memory paging problems, app icon reversion, system UI crashes, heads-up notification interaction issues, and various stability and connectivity problems. The OTA update began rolling out on October 24, and users can manually check for updates in their settings. The update follows a previous Beta 2 release aimed at Bluetooth and NFC payment issues and hints at future enhancements for Android 16. Some users have reported issues with the stable OS, including inoperability on Pixel 6 devices.

AppWizard

October 23, 2024

How to use Android 15’s App Freeze feature to clear space on your phone

The Pixel line of smartphones now includes a feature called App Freeze, which helps users manage storage by archiving infrequently used applications and their data. When an app is archived, it becomes temporarily unavailable until reactivated, freeing up storage space and retaining only minimal data. Archived apps are marked with a cloud icon in the App Drawer or home screen. The feature is enabled by default on new Pixel devices running Android 15, and users can find it under "Manage app if unused" in the settings menu. Users can choose to allow automatic archiving after a period of inactivity or manually archive apps. To enable archiving, users must ensure the "Manage app if unused" setting is turned on. Tapping an archived app restores it to its previous state.

AppWizard

October 18, 2024

Google Confirms Play Store Update—Disabling Apps Starts In Next 10 Weeks

Android 15 has been released for Pixel devices, focusing on security and privacy enhancements. A key upcoming feature is Google Play’s live threat detection, which will analyze app behavior for suspicious activity and potentially disable harmful apps. Google Play Protect currently scans 200 billion apps daily, and the new feature will enhance fraud detection using on-device AI while maintaining user privacy. Google has mandated the use of the Photo Picker API, requiring apps to justify broad access to photo and video permissions. Developers must submit a declaration form to retain such permissions, with a deadline at the end of September. Failure to comply will prevent app updates on the Play Store. Google plans to enforce this policy strictly, addressing permission abuse highlighted in recent reports. The live threat detection feature is expected to roll out later this year.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Google Rolls Out Android 15 With Theft Detection Lock, Privacy Features For ‘Sensitive’ Apps And More – Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG), Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL)

Alphabet Inc.'s Google has begun rolling out Android 15 for Pixel devices, focusing on enhancing user experience, security, and privacy. Key features include: - Theft Protection and Recovery: Introduces Theft Detection Lock using AI to secure devices upon detecting suspicious movement, remote locking via phone number, and authentication requirements for critical actions like SIM card removal. - Private Space for Sensitive Apps: A secure vault for concealing sensitive applications, requiring additional authentication for access and allowing users to hide its existence from the main interface. - Enhanced Multitasking on Foldables and Tablets: Features include a pin/unpin taskbar for quick access to apps and App Pairing for simultaneous operation of two applications with drag-and-drop functionality. - Camera, Messaging, and Passkey Updates: Includes Low Light Boost for improved image quality, satellite connectivity for carrier messaging apps, and streamlined authentication for Passkeys.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 16: Eligible devices, release date, and new features

Android 15 has officially transitioned to a stable release and is being rolled out to eligible Pixel devices. Not all features from the beta testing phase have made it to the stable version, with some features like the predictive back gesture being implemented only now. Android 16 is expected to debut in preview builds by the end of February 2025 and will reach a broader range of devices than previous versions, with many brands committing to at least three Android OS updates for budget and mid-range smartphones. The Pixel 7 series will receive Android 16, while older models will continue to receive feature updates and security patches. Google has promised seven years of software updates for devices like the mid-range Pixel 8a. Android 16's internal codename is Baklava. New features in Android 16 include notification cooldown to reduce notification volume from the same app, a native desktop mode, the ability to limit battery charging to 80%, and enhanced audio sharing capabilities for casting music to multiple Bluetooth devices. Google is expected to launch a developer preview in the first quarter of the year, with public beta builds around May and a stable release anticipated in the fourth quarter.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 15 Is Here. What You Need to Know about Google’s Latest OS on Your Phone

Google will unveil Android 15 on Tuesday, initially available for supported Pixel devices, including Pixel 8 and Pixel 9, with a broader rollout to select devices from manufacturers like Samsung, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, and OnePlus in the coming months. Android 15 introduces features such as partial screen recording, satellite connectivity for messaging without cellular service, predictive back gestures, improved in-app camera controls, low-light enhancements, and sensitive notifications for two-factor authentication codes. The update focuses on enhancing security, particularly in health and finance sectors, and improves functionality for large-screen devices. Key features include: - Revamped Theft Detection Lock powered by AI. - Enhanced authentication for critical settings like SIM removal and disabling Find My Device. - A Private Space feature to conceal sensitive applications. - Customizable taskbar for foldables and tablets. - Ability to pair apps for multitasking. - Optimized in-app camera controls for low-light conditions. - Satellite connectivity for messaging applications. - Single-tap login using passkeys. Android 15 will first roll out to Pixel devices, with support for additional brands including Samsung, Honor, iQOO, Lenovo, Motorola, Nothing, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Sony, Tecno, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Users are advised to back up their devices before installation. To download Android 15, users should navigate to Settings > System > Software updates > System Updates on their supported device. If storage space is insufficient, users must free up space or use a computer for the update process.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android 15 is now available for Pixels

Android 15 has started rolling out to Pixel devices, featuring new privacy options, security improvements, and enhancements for foldable phones and tablets. The update includes a "private space" functionality for discreet app usage, allowing apps to remain hidden from recent apps, notifications, and settings, with additional authentication required for access. For foldable devices and tablets, users can pin and unpin the taskbar and create app pairings for easier access. A Theft Detection Lock feature uses AI to lock the device if theft is suspected, and a Remote Lock option allows users to secure their phones from another Android device. These features are expected to be available on devices running Android 10 and newer. Additionally, a new Pixel feature drop for October will enhance Night Sight for Instagram and introduce media transfer capabilities between Pixel devices.