Pixel Archives

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

I’ve used Pixel Weather for 2 years — here’s why I’m ditching it for Gradient Weather

Google's Pixel Weather app was launched with the Pixel 9 series in 2024 and is known for its clean interface and robust pollen tracking. However, the author has shifted their preference to Gradient Weather, an Android weather app that aggregates data from multiple sources for improved accuracy. Gradient Weather features an intuitive bar graph for hourly forecasts, user-friendly color-coded alerts, and additional functionalities like a sunrise and sunset widget, moon phases, and a compass. Its map functionality includes filters for various weather conditions and allows users to report real-time weather phenomena. The app offers extensive notification customization and aesthetic options, including theme modifications and widget arrangements. While Pixel Weather has advantages such as a pollen tracker, Gradient Weather's premium features and rapid development make it a compelling choice for Android users.

AppWizard

April 25, 2026

10 awesome Shizuku apps I use to level up my Android experience

Shizuku is an open-source tool that connects elevated Android functionalities with third-party applications, enabling access to previously restricted features. Canta allows users to uninstall any app, including bloatware and system applications, on devices like Samsung, providing guidance on safe uninstallation. ColorBlendr enhances control over Android's color-picking system, allowing users to select colors from wallpapers and standard palettes. Essentials is a toolkit for Pixel and other Android devices that unlocks hidden settings for granular adjustments and includes tools like a real-time distance calculator. Smartspacer extends the At A Glance widget's functionality beyond Pixel devices, integrating information from various sources. ShizuWall is a firewall that prevents selected apps from accessing the internet without needing a VPN or Private DNS. aShell You allows users to run ADB commands directly on their device, featuring a list of commands and bookmark support. Install With Options streamlines APK installation with modifications like bypassing SDK limits and downgrading apps. Adaptive Theme automatically switches between Dark and Light modes based on ambient light levels. SD Maid SE is a storage-cleanup tool that identifies and removes unnecessary files, with enhanced capabilities when used with Shizuku. Shappky enables users to terminate any running app, including system apps, with a simple tap.

BetaBeacon

April 25, 2026

Today’s Android game and app deals: Lia Hacking Destiny, Ash of Gods, Boxville 2, and more

The highlighted Android app price drops include Black Border 3 for , Lia: Hacking Destiny for .50, Outliver: Tribulation for , Ash of Gods: Redemption for .50, and more.

AppWizard

April 24, 2026

WhatsApp working on Android notification bubble support instead of Facebook’s wonky ‘Chat Heads’

WhatsApp is reportedly working on incorporating support for notification bubbles, a feature that allows conversations to be displayed in a floating format, enabling users to switch between chats and other applications easily. This feature is currently in early beta versions and is not yet available to the general public. Unlike Facebook Messenger, which uses a semi-custom solution for bubbles on non-Pixel devices, WhatsApp aims for a more cohesive implementation that aligns with Android's native bubble functionality. There is no official timeline for the rollout of this feature to all users.

AppWizard

April 23, 2026

Today’s Android game and app deals: DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS, 9th Dawn Remake RPG, Maneater, more

Notable Android games currently available at discounted prices include DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS, 9th Dawn Remake RPG, Maneater – Shark RPG, 7 Billion Humans, SENTINEL 519: SAGA – GENESIS, Human Resource Machine, and SpongeBob – The Cosmic Shake. Discounts on unlocked Pixel 10 models start at , offering savings of up to 0, while the unlocked Galaxy Z Fold 7 has seen price reductions of up to 0.

AppWizard

April 23, 2026

Android 17 isn’t out yet, but Google is already testing its first big update

Google has released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 1 for Pixel devices on April 22, 2026, with the build number CP31.260403.005.A1. This update indicates platform stability, focusing on refining existing features and addressing bugs, particularly in the Terminal app and wireless printing capabilities. Key issues resolved include an Application Not Responding error in the Terminal app, VoIP distortion in voice communication applications, and audio output failures on devices using AIDL audio HAL. The update is available for Pixel devices from the Pixel 6 series to the Pixel 10 lineup enrolled in the Android Beta Program. The stable version of Android 17 is expected around mid-2026, with Android 17 QPR1 likely debuting alongside the Pixel 11 in August or September.

AppWizard

April 23, 2026

Titanium Court review

Titanium Court is a game that combines match-three puzzles, autobattlers, and visual novels, developed by AP Thomson and published by Fellow Traveller, set to release on April 23, 2026. It features a narrative where the protagonist ascends to the throne of the Titanium Court amidst a war between two factions. Players engage in match-three mechanics to gather resources and eliminate enemy blocks, with gameplay transitioning to an autobattle phase where resource management affects soldier deployment. The game includes whimsical elements and random complications that influence strategy, while its writing and presentation offer humor and a surreal atmosphere. Despite the potential frustration from the match-three mechanics, the game is noted for its artistic vision and charm.

AppWizard

April 21, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Rusty Lake Paradise, Out There, Underground Blossom, more

An array of Android game and app deals is available, including titles such as PARANORMASIGHT, Rusty Lake Paradise, Out There: Ω Edition, Underground Blossom, Townopolis, Rusty Lake Hotel, Railways – Train Simulator, and Traffix: Traffic Simulator. The Samsung Galaxy Ring is discounted by up to 0, the unlocked Pixel 10 is available for up to 0 off, and the Pixel Watch 4 LTE is offered at a low price with a discount on Amazon.

AppWizard

April 21, 2026

Google’s most basic app has turned my dad into a Pixel super-fan

The author's family recently transitioned to Google Pixel phones, which has particularly pleased the author's father due to the Pixel Weather app. The switch was motivated by the need for easier remote troubleshooting and a consistent user experience. The father's fondness for the app stems from its clarity, straightforward design, and absence of ads, making it more enjoyable to use. The app provides accurate weather forecasts for their hometown in Lebanon and features a large, readable font that caters to the father's visual needs. The family has a longstanding interest in weather information, and the app's customization options have enhanced the father's smartphone experience.

AppWizard

April 21, 2026

Minecraft Maps Guide: How to Master the 1.21 Grid and Find Trial Chambers | Attack of the Fanboy

Maps in Minecraft have become essential for navigating underground Trial Chambers introduced in the 1.21 Tricky Trials update. Players can create maps using a Cartography Table, which requires only two pieces of paper and four wooden planks, making it more efficient than the traditional crafting table method. An empty map costs one piece of paper, and scaling maps up or down also only requires one piece of paper. For Bedrock Edition players, creating a locator map with a compass is necessary to display their position. Maps can be scaled from level 0 to level 4, with each level covering increasingly larger areas but with less detail. Level 0 covers a 128 by 128 block area, while level 4 spans 2048 by 2048 blocks. The Trial Explorer Map, obtainable from a Cartographer for 12 emeralds and a compass, helps players locate Trial Chambers, which are hidden within deepslate layers at Y levels between 0 and -64. Minecraft maps do not center on the player but snap to a fixed grid, requiring players to move specific distances to align maps correctly. Players can use a white dot that appears on the edge of their map for navigation and can mark locations using renamed banners. Additionally, maps display the highest block in a vertical column, allowing for creative map art projects. The lore suggests a connection to an ancient civilization of builders, with villagers continuing their legacy through cartography.