Private Space Archives

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

This rumored One UI 8 feature might be just what runners need

Samsung is developing a personalized virtual Running Coach as part of its One UI 8, based on Android 16. This feature will provide tailored assessments to enhance running performance and offer guidance during longer runs. The coach will evaluate users' progress and intensity, helping them balance their training. Integration with Galaxy Watch may allow for real-time heart rate monitoring. A One UI 8 beta banner has appeared in the Samsung members app, indicating the upcoming upgrade. Additionally, One UI 8 may include a redesign of the Gallery and Files Manager apps, and an upgraded Secure Folder with new Private Space functionality for secure content storage. The rollout of One UI 8 is anticipated as Google prepares to launch Android 16 in Q2 2025.

AppWizard

May 12, 2025

Samsung could get you a secret vault for your photos in One UI 8

Samsung is enhancing user privacy in its upcoming One UI 8 Gallery app with a new feature called "Private album," designed to discreetly store photos and videos. This feature is currently in beta testing within the hidden “Labs” section of the app, indicating it may not be included in the final release. The Private album aims to provide a simpler alternative to the existing Secure Folder for managing visual content. One UI 8 is built on the forthcoming Android 16 and is expected to launch after the stable release of Android 16 in June. The update will introduce various refinements to enhance user experience, including improved background task management, smarter app suggestions, and better battery management. There are also rumors of new features like video summarization in Samsung Internet and an upgraded Secure Folder.

AppWizard

April 26, 2025

Nothing Phone 3a is finally getting this missing Android 15 privacy feature

The Nothing Phone 3a is set to receive an update that includes support for 4K video, camera enhancements, and a hotspot manager. A key feature being introduced is Privacy Space, which allows users to create a secure profile to conceal apps from scrutiny. Users can access Privacy Space by swiping right in the app drawer and can set distinct passwords for it and the App Locker. This feature was hinted at in March during an APK teardown of the Nothing Launcher.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

20 advanced Android 15 tips

Android 15 introduces several enhancements for user experience, including: - Notification Cooldown feature to manage alerts more effectively. - Modes system for tailoring device settings based on context (work, leisure, rest). - Separation of Samsung’s Quick Settings and notification panels for streamlined access. - Private Space feature for safeguarding selected applications within the app drawer. - App pair feature for running two applications side by side. - Transformation of Samsung's Android app drawer for improved navigation. - New Home Control screen saver for managing connected devices. - Expanded volume panel for customizing audio output. - Improved contrast controls for better visibility and accessibility across interfaces.

AppWizard

February 24, 2025

A flaw in Samsung’s Secure Folder lets anyone see what apps and photos you have

A flaw in Samsung's Secure Folder feature allows unauthorized access to photos and videos stored within it, particularly through "work" apps. A Reddit user demonstrated that by creating a work profile using an app like Shelter, individuals can bypass security measures. While this flaw does not affect all files, it specifically risks media content. Additionally, users can see which apps are installed in the Secure Folder even when it is encrypted, due to the way Samsung's Secure Folder is structured as a managed work profile. This oversight allows the Android photo picker and Permission Controller to access its contents inappropriately. To resolve these issues, Samsung may need to change the underlying user type of the Secure Folder, which could be complex and may require a reset.

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

November 29, 2024

Without Android’s new Private Space, here’s how I hide my sensitive apps in plain sight

In the digital age, smartphones store a vast amount of personal and sensitive information, raising concerns about data security in case of loss or theft. Users can enhance app concealment by downloading a third-party icon pack from the Google Play Store or F-Droid. To hide Android apps, users should long-press the app icon, select Customize from the menu, rename the app to a generic title, and change its icon accordingly. Additionally, apps can be removed from the app grid or search results using specific launcher options. This method is easy to reverse by following the same steps to restore the original app identity. While this technique does not provide the same level of security as Private Space or Secure Folder, it can serve as a temporary smokescreen to protect sensitive information. Users should be cautious about forgetting the new names and icons assigned to apps and should group them by category for easier recall.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

How to create Private Space for your apps on Pixel

Android 15 introduces the 'Private Space' feature, which functions as a digital vault for securely locking sensitive applications and data within a separate sandbox. Users can create a second instance of any app, protected by a distinct locking mechanism, separate from the primary screen lock. To set up Private Space on a compatible Pixel 9 device, users must navigate to Settings > Security & privacy > Private space, authenticate with their screen lock, and complete the setup process. Once established, Private Space appears in the app drawer, allowing users to manage installed apps and customize settings. Applications and data within Private Space are isolated from regular apps. The Google Pixel 9 is highlighted for its premium design, performance, and commitment to seven years of OS and security updates.

AppWizard

October 27, 2024

How to use the new Private Space feature in Android 15

Android 15 introduces a feature called Private Space, which enhances user privacy by creating a secure environment for selected applications. It acts as a vault to protect sensitive apps from unauthorized access, adding an extra layer of security beyond the primary lock screen. To set up Private Space, users navigate to Settings > Security and privacy > Private space, review the feature overview, and tap Set up. They can choose to use a different Google account or create a new one, set a new lock method, and finalize the setup. Google apps like Chrome and Photos are pre-installed in the private space. Accessing Private Space involves scrolling to the bottom of the app drawer, tapping the padlock icon, and authenticating via biometric or PIN. Users can add or uninstall apps easily, and notifications from apps in Private Space only appear when it is unlocked. The space remains accessible until locked again, and users can configure it to lock automatically under certain conditions. Additional configuration options include changing the lock method, setting automatic lock conditions, hiding the private space from the app drawer, and deleting the private space while keeping cloud-synced data intact. Transferring Private Space to a new device is not supported, requiring users to start anew, although they can sign in with the same Google account to restore data from certain apps.

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.