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Google Maps might get a trial space for new features, and 'Ask Maps' could headline
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Google Maps might get a trial space for new features, and ‘Ask Maps’ could headline

Google is reportedly developing a "try new features" trial environment for its Maps app, allowing users to test upcoming functionalities. A potential feature in this trial is an "Ask Maps" button, which may utilize Gemini technology to offer enhanced suggestions for local events. Google has been integrating AI features into Maps, including improved review summaries and smart suggestions, and is transitioning from Assistant to Gemini for better voice command recognition and responses.
Google confirms the first Android 17 beta is coming soon — just as Android 16 QPR3 cycle ends
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Google confirms the first Android 17 beta is coming soon — just as Android 16 QPR3 cycle ends

Google has released the final Android 16 QPR3 build, completing its testing phase. Enrolled beta users will automatically transition to the upcoming Android 17 beta program. The final build, Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.1, has the build number CP11.251209.009.A1 and is compatible with all Pixel phones, including the Pixel 10 series. Google confirmed the end of testing for Android 16 QPR3 and is preparing for the Android 17 Platform Release, designated as 26Q2. A specific start date for the Android 17 beta has not been announced. The stable rollout of Android 16 QPR3 is anticipated in early March 2026.
Car Icons Are Disappearing From Google Maps in Android Auto (but You Might Be Able to Fix It)
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Car Icons Are Disappearing From Google Maps in Android Auto (but You Might Be Able to Fix It)

Android Auto users are experiencing an issue where car icons are disappearing from the navigation interface in Google Maps. This problem began six days ago, coinciding with the release of Android Auto version 16.1, although some users have reported similar issues with version 15.9. The bug tends to occur when users switch to another app in fullscreen mode and then return to Google Maps. A temporary fix involves force quitting Google Maps, but the issue recurs. Community-sourced solutions include updating or downgrading Android Auto, changing to the default car icon, and avoiding leaving the Google Maps app. If these solutions fail, users may consider alternative navigation apps like Waze, Sygic GPS, or TomTom, which do not exhibit this bug.
Google Gemini May Soon Control Apps on Android — Here’s How It Could Change Everything
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Google Gemini May Soon Control Apps on Android — Here’s How It Could Change Everything

Google is enhancing Gemini AI on Android to enable it to control apps directly, allowing it to perform tasks within applications rather than just responding to inquiries. This includes capabilities such as opening apps, performing in-app actions, navigating interfaces, and completing tasks using natural language commands. If implemented, this feature could significantly transform the Android user experience by facilitating faster multitasking, reducing screen interaction, and providing smarter automation. Privacy measures will include strict permission-based access and on-device processing for sensitive tasks. The feature may launch in a future Android 16 update or alongside upcoming Pixel feature drops, likely starting with Pixel devices before expanding to other Android smartphones.
Steam’s most‑wishlisted games reveal an unexpected frontrunner — and Xbox Game Studios is holding strong
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Steam’s most‑wishlisted games reveal an unexpected frontrunner — and Xbox Game Studios is holding strong

Alinea Analytics has identified the most-wishlisted games on Steam for release in 2026. The top three are: 1. Subnautica 2 - 3.8 million wishlists, featuring co-op multiplayer, Xbox Play Anywhere support, and availability on Xbox Game Pass, delayed from 2025 to 2026. 2. Forza Horizon 6 - 2.6 million wishlists, has sold 220,000 copies on Steam, set in Japan, also supports Xbox Play Anywhere and will be available on Xbox Game Pass, releasing on May 19, 2026. 3. Resident Evil Requiem - 2.5 million wishlists, features characters Leon and Grace Ashcroft, blending survival horror with combat, not available on Game Pass or Xbox Play Anywhere, releasing on February 26, 2026.
Users Solve Windows 11 Issues With Four Settings Checks
Winsage
February 11, 2026

Users Solve Windows 11 Issues With Four Settings Checks

To address slowdowns and glitches in Windows 11, users should verify several settings before considering a complete reinstallation. Key actions include: 1. Check for Windows Updates: Navigate to Settings > Windows Update to install patches and update device drivers. Uninstall problematic updates if necessary. 2. Manage Startup Applications: Use Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) or Settings > Apps > Startup to disable unnecessary auto-starting applications to improve boot speed. 3. Pause OneDrive Syncing: Temporarily pause OneDrive syncing during resource-intensive tasks to prevent performance degradation. 4. Adjust Visual Effects: Disable Transparency effects and Animation effects in Settings > Personalization > Colors and Settings > Accessibility > Visual effects, respectively, to reduce GPU strain. 5. Limit Notifications: Turn off notifications in Settings > System > Notifications to minimize interruptions. 6. Restrict Background Activity: Set background app permissions to "Never" for infrequently used applications to conserve memory and disk usage. 7. Run Security Scans: Use Windows Security to perform a Quick scan and ensure that real-time protection features are enabled to detect malware and adware. 8. Browser Maintenance: Reset browser settings, remove unknown extensions, and enable tracking protection to improve resource management. If issues persist, further steps include running System File Checker, testing memory, checking storage health, or performing a repair install of Windows.
Something's missing: Android Auto users report a jarring bug in Google Maps
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Something’s missing: Android Auto users report a jarring bug in Google Maps

Android Auto users are experiencing an issue where their vehicle's icon is missing from Google Maps during navigation, while other functions remain operational. This problem appears to have started with version 6.1.660404-release of the app. A workaround is available by reverting to the default vehicle icon, but a comprehensive fix from Google is needed. This issue is not isolated, as it follows previous problems with Google updates that affected wireless connectivity and caused gray screen issues for Pixel 10 series users. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing glitches and the impact on their experience with the Pixel 10.
Microsoft Announces Windows Baseline Security Mode and User Transparency and Consent
Winsage
February 11, 2026

Microsoft Announces Windows Baseline Security Mode and User Transparency and Consent

Microsoft has introduced two initiatives to enhance user trust in the Windows operating system: Windows Baseline Security Mode and User Transparency and Consent. These initiatives focus on transparency in app and AI agent behaviors, allowing users to reverse decisions and limiting access to defined capabilities. Windows Baseline Security Mode will enforce runtime integrity safeguards, permitting only properly signed apps, services, and drivers to run, while allowing users and IT administrators to override these safeguards if necessary. User Transparency and Consent will prompt users when apps attempt to access sensitive resources or install additional software, providing clear and actionable options for users to review and modify their choices. The rollout will occur in Windows 11 through a phased approach, with potential implementation in the Windows Insider Program by mid-year, possibly aligning with a future Windows 11 version or Windows 12 release.
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