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This underrated Samsung feature is the first thing I set up on any new Android phone... except Pixels
AppWizard
July 11, 2026

This underrated Samsung feature is the first thing I set up on any new Android phone… except Pixels

The taskbar feature at the bottom of the screen enhances user experience on tablets and foldable phones, allowing quick access to frequently used applications. This feature is also available on regular non-folding smartphones, such as Samsung and Motorola devices, where users can enable and customize a side panel known as the Sidebar or Edge Panel. On Samsung devices, users can download the Good Lock app and install the Home Up module to activate the Edge Panel, which offers customization options for quick access to apps, contacts, and shortcuts. The upcoming One UI 9 update is expected to introduce more customization options for the Edge Panel. Motorola users can enable a similar sidebar feature through Settings > Gestures > Sidebar. OnePlus users can find it under Settings > Accessibility & convenience > Smart Sidebar. Pixel smartphones lack a built-in sidebar feature, with users relying on third-party applications to replicate this functionality. The closest alternative on Pixel devices is the App Bubbles feature for multitasking, but it does not provide the same experience as a dedicated sidebar.
Pixel users: Is Google Recorder refusing to save your recordings?
AppWizard
July 7, 2026

Pixel users: Is Google Recorder refusing to save your recordings?

A segment of Google Pixel users is experiencing issues with the Google Recorder app, specifically that recordings are failing to save. A user on the Google Pixel subreddit reported that the app initiates recordings but does not store them, and several other users have confirmed similar experiences. Despite attempts to troubleshoot, such as clearing the app's cache and restarting devices, the issue persists for some users. However, others report that the app functions correctly on their devices. A poll on the subreddit shows that 60% of respondents are having issues with the app.
This gorgeous Android launcher is basically dead — and it’s all Google’s fault
AppWizard
July 4, 2026

This gorgeous Android launcher is basically dead — and it’s all Google’s fault

Stario Launcher, launched in 2024, is an aesthetically pleasing Android launcher that combines speed and functionality, featuring custom animations, widgets, and automatic app categorization. Its design is influenced by Google’s Material Expressive language, with a minimalist interface that emphasizes essential widgets. The launcher includes a search function similar to Pixel Launcher, supports alternative search engines, and has a dedicated Briefing page for personalized news feeds. It also offers a widget page for customization and a Low Spec mode for older devices. However, the developer plans to cease updates due to Google's tightening policies on third-party apps, which will complicate the installation of non-verified apps starting in September 2026. This situation reflects broader concerns about the future of third-party applications in the Android ecosystem.
Android Halo puts AI agents in your status bar
AppWizard
July 3, 2026

Android Halo puts AI agents in your status bar

Google has introduced Android Halo, an interface layer for Android 17 that keeps an AI agent visible in the status bar while it operates in the background. This feature was first mentioned at Google I/O in May 2026 and detailed by Android president Sameer Samat in a July YouTube video. Android Halo allows users to monitor the AI agent's task progress, receive clarifying questions, and view results without switching applications. The agent operates in a secure, containerized environment, limiting its access to user-provided information only. Android Halo is designed to work with Google's Gemini and can also integrate third-party agents that meet specific requirements, in compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act. Android 17 is expected to launch in August 2026 alongside the Pixel 11, which will be the first device to feature Halo. The availability of Halo on other devices, like the Samsung Galaxy S25+, is uncertain, and no pre-order windows for hardware with Halo have been announced in the US and UK.
Platform Stability reached: Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 is here for Pixels, quickly after Beta 5
AppWizard
July 2, 2026

Platform Stability reached: Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 is here for Pixels, quickly after Beta 5

Google has announced the rollout of Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 (vCP31.260618.005) to enrolled Pixel testers, specifically for Pixel 6 and newer devices. This beta focuses on addressing user-reported issues and follows the release of Beta 5. The update has achieved Platform Stability, indicating preparations for a broader stable launch for all Pixel devices. Previous betas have resolved critical bugs, but general availability of these solutions will take time. Google is accelerating its development process, following trends from previous releases.
Pixel users aren't receiving calls, but the issue might be Google's phone app
AppWizard
July 2, 2026

Pixel users aren’t receiving calls, but the issue might be Google’s phone app

Pixel users are experiencing a "missing incoming call" bug that prevents notifications for incoming calls across various Pixel devices. This issue is linked to the Google Phone app and has persisted for several months, affecting users even after updates, including those on the Android 17 QPR1 Beta 5. Reports indicate that some users have resolved the issue by disabling the Call Screen feature. Android Central has noted the problem and reached out to Google for clarification.
Gemini Omni is 'like Nano Banana for video' and I couldn't believe the results
AppWizard
July 2, 2026

Gemini Omni is ‘like Nano Banana for video’ and I couldn’t believe the results

Gemini Omni is a video-generation tool launched at Google I/O 2026, part of the June Pixel Drop, designed for creating multimedia content through conversational prompts. It is available on any smartphone with the appropriate Google AI subscription, offering a free version with limited access and more extensive features for subscribers of Google AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra. Users can create videos by uploading photos or videos and selecting aspect ratios, with the app providing suggestions for prompts. Gemini Omni replaces the Veo models within the Gemini app, although Veo remains available in other Google products. The app includes exclusive features like Screen Reactions and Bubbles for Pixel 10 users.
Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 brings a major power-user upgrade to the Terminal app
AppWizard
July 2, 2026

Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 brings a major power-user upgrade to the Terminal app

The Android 17 QPR1 beta has introduced a new feature called "Keyboard shortcuts" in the Linux Terminal app, allowing users to customize key combinations for various Terminal functions. This feature can be found under Settings > Keyboard shortcuts, enabling users to toggle shortcuts on or off and assign their preferred key combinations. It is particularly beneficial for Pixel devices in Desktop mode and tablet users with keyboard accessories, enhancing productivity for power users. The utility of this feature is limited on smartphones but is advantageous for those using physical keyboards.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
July 2, 2026

Android’s Linux Terminal no longer restricts you to a single font and window in QPR1 Beta 6

The Android 17 QPR1 Beta 6 has introduced enhancements to the Linux Terminal app, including the ability to import custom fonts from phone storage and multi-window support. Users can now select their preferred font as the default and open new terminal windows via the three-dot overflow menu, with each window appearing in Android’s recents screen. The Linux Terminal app debuted on Pixel devices during the March 2025 Pixel Drop and has seen several improvements since its launch.
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