Sharing capabilities Archives

AppWizard

March 14, 2025

Google may soon give you more control over how your Calendar data is shared (APK teardown)

Android has long enforced permissions for applications accessing calendar data, and Google Calendar is enhancing user control over data sharing. A recent APK teardown indicates that Google is developing a new toggle in Calendar settings to allow users to control whether their Google Calendar data is shared with other applications. When this option is disabled, third-party calendar apps cannot access Google Calendar entries. Additionally, Google Calendar is experimenting with a new font called Google Sans Flex, which features heavier lines with rounded ends.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Microsoft is adding image editing and compression to its Windows Share feature – and I couldn’t be happier

Microsoft has released a beta update for Windows 11 version 23H2 that enhances image editing and sharing capabilities. This update allows users to edit and compress images directly within the Windows Share interface, enabling cropping, adjusting, and filtering without the Snipping Tool. The feature is currently available in the beta version, but its future in subsequent updates is uncertain. This development aids users in managing file sizes when sharing larger images and may reduce reliance on third-party compression tools. Users have expressed satisfaction with the stability of version 23H2 compared to version 24H2.

AppWizard

March 5, 2025

Google rolls out a quick March security patch to join its big Pixel update

In March 2025, Google began rolling out a security update for eligible Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series to Pixel 9, Pixel Fold, 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel Tablet. The update versions are BP1A.250305.019 for Pixel 6, 7, 8, and Fold, and BP1A.250305.020 for Pixel 9 series and Tablet. The update addresses various issues, enhancing display stability and performance, and includes fixes for camera and WebView stability. An audio issue with Bluetooth call volume is resolved, except for the Pixel 6 series. The changelog includes fixes for launcher theme misalignment, transparent home screen icons, app-switching issues with third-party launchers, and themed icon display problems. The update also introduces nine high-severity framework fixes and 21 system fixes for security, including two notable vulnerabilities. The rollout started on March 4, following a Pixel feature drop that added functionalities like Loss of Pulse detection and scam detection alerts.

Winsage

February 28, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (Dev and Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (KB5052090) has been released to both the Dev and Beta Channels. This update introduces enhancements based on Windows 11, version 24H2, initially available as optional for Beta Channel users. A transition option from the Dev Channel to the Beta Channel is available but will close as higher build numbers are released. New features include support for lock screen widgets for users in the European Economic Area (EEA), with a new group policy to disable these widgets. Task Manager will now use standard metrics for CPU utilization, and sharing capabilities have been enhanced in File Explorer. Fixes include resolving issues in File Explorer, Taskbar, Remote Desktop, and Settings. Known issues involve incorrect build version display after a PC reset and difficulties with the Recall feature. An update for the Snipping Tool introduces a trim feature for screen recordings. Windows Insiders in both channels will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2 through an enablement package. Features may evolve or be removed during development.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Microsoft is finally working on making PC migration painless with a new app

Microsoft is developing a new migration application to simplify data transfer from old PCs to new ones, as discovered in the Windows 11 Insider Beta build 22635.4945. The app is still in early stages, with only preliminary user interface elements visible. It will assist users in backing up existing data and transferring files, requiring both computers to be close and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The migration process will involve pairing devices with a one-time password (OTP) and confirming the transfer. While mockups suggest potential design and functionality, the app is not yet fully functional, and there is no timeline for its release, although it is expected to be available to Windows Insiders before a wider public rollout.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

New Windows 11 24H2 bug list: 12 reasons to avoid this update for now

On October 1, Microsoft released the 2024 update for Windows 11, named Windows 11 24H2, which includes an upgraded Copilot AI, a revamped File Explorer, and performance improvements. The update is available through the Windows Update screen or can be downloaded from Microsoft's website. However, the rollout has encountered several bugs, prompting Microsoft to temporarily halt the update for certain devices. Key issues reported include: 1. Conflicts with Ubisoft games, causing freezes or crashes. 2. Problems with the Auto HDR feature leading to incorrect color displays or unresponsive games. 3. Incompatibility with Easy Anti-Cheat software, resulting in blue screens for users with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Blue screens due to driver incompatibilities, particularly with Intel's Smart Sound Technology and certain hardware configurations. 5. A bug causing the mouse pointer to disappear in Chromium-based applications. 6. Erratic internet connectivity issues, with some devices unable to obtain a valid IP address. 7. A time zone setting issue preventing users without administrative privileges from changing their time zone. 8. Problems with the clipboard history feature appearing empty despite copied items. 9. Network sharing issues where devices fail to appear in the network list. 10. Printer setup difficulties for users of Copilot+ PCs, particularly with HP, Canon, and Brother printers. 11. Audio output issues for users utilizing Dirac Audio technology. 12. Microsoft Outlook failing to launch for users relying on Google Workspace Sync. Microsoft has acknowledged these issues and is working on patches and solutions. Users are advised to delay upgrading to the 2024 version until these problems are resolved.

AppWizard

December 18, 2024

Google Play Store to remove peer-to-peer ‘app share’ functionality

Version 44.1 of the Google Play Store has removed the "Share apps" feature, which allowed users to share installed applications via Nearby Share. This feature was introduced in early 2021 and enabled app transfers without internet or mobile data usage. The change was noted by 9to5Google in the official changelog, and while Google has not commented on the removal, there are speculations about security concerns related to potential malware distribution. Users can still share apps using Files by Google or third-party file sharing applications.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

Microsoft XR and Windows Mixed Reality: Could the HoloLens Make a Comeback?

Microsoft introduced the Windows Mixed Reality platform in 2017, enabling various PC manufacturers to create consumer-ready XR headsets. In 2016, Microsoft launched the HoloLens, followed by the HoloLens 2, which was aimed at enterprise users but struggled in the consumer market. Recently, Microsoft discontinued the HoloLens and ceased support for Windows Mixed Reality, leading to speculation about its future in XR. In December 2023, Microsoft announced the removal of Windows Mixed Reality from Windows 11, making previous devices inoperable after a 2024 update. Despite this, Microsoft is shifting towards becoming a software provider for other XR vendors, partnering with companies like Unity and Meta to develop mixed reality solutions for devices like the Quest 3. Microsoft also announced a long-term partnership with RealWear for distributing Power Apps for smart glasses. The HoloLens 2 will continue to receive security updates until December 2027, but no new HoloLens headsets are in development. Microsoft has partnered with Samsung to produce mini OLED panels for a potential new line of mixed reality headsets, with mass production expected in 2026.

AppWizard

December 9, 2024

Google might let you share custom Gems for Gemini in the mobile app

Gemini Advanced subscribers can create and share custom AI chatbots called Gems, designed for specialized tasks. Currently, Gems can only be shared through the Gemini web client. An APK teardown of the Google app beta indicates that mobile sharing capabilities may be forthcoming. The introduction of Gems in August 2024 allows users to develop chatbots that act as experts in specific fields, available to Gemini Advanced, Business, and Enterprise subscribers. Users can save and share custom Gems, but sharing is limited to the web client at present. The beta version of the Google app reveals a new option to share conversations and Gem instructions, which would simplify the sharing process on mobile devices. Any links created will be public, providing access to the Gem's name and details. The timeline for the public release of mobile sharing capabilities is uncertain, but the presence of this functionality in the beta is a positive sign of progress.

AppWizard

December 5, 2024

Google spruces up Android with 6 new features improving Gemini, accessibility, and sharing

Google has introduced new features for Android, effective immediately, focusing on accessibility, sharing capabilities, and document management. Key updates include: - Expressive Captions for improved audio caption reading, available system-wide. - Enhanced image description capabilities in the Gemini platform, with vocalized descriptions and follow-up questions. - Emoji Kitchen for creating unique emojis by combining two default ones, integrated into Gboard. - Revamped Quick Share functionality allowing QR code generation for sharing content. - Higher quality document scans with automatic enhancements in Google Drive. - New Gemini Extensions for Spotify and Home, expanding features available to users.