Shorts Archives

AppWizard

June 16, 2026

3 unofficial Android Auto apps I installed to make my car screen more useful

Android Auto offers a limited selection of applications due to restrictions imposed by Google, but users can enhance its functionality by sideloading unofficial apps from outside the Play Store. Sideloading allows for the installation of additional applications that can significantly improve the driving experience, especially for owners of older vehicles. To sideload apps on Android Auto, users must unlock developer mode on their phone and Android Auto, then install the Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) to access unofficial apps. Three notable sideloaded apps include: 1. CarStream: Allows users to access YouTube on Android Auto, enabling video searches and subscriptions while the vehicle is in motion. 2. AA Browser: Provides a web browsing experience on Android Auto, ideal for accessing websites that may not support the platform natively. 3. Fermata Auto: An all-in-one media toolkit that plays locally stored videos and music, screen mirrors, and allows live TV viewing through IPTV links.

AppWizard

June 15, 2026

YouTube turns into a messenger: the platform has returned the function of private messages

YouTube has reintroduced in-app private chats, allowing users to share videos, shorts, and live broadcasts without using third-party platforms. To start a chat, users must send an invitation through an external messenger, which is valid for seven days. Once accepted, users can chat one-on-one, but sharing is limited to publicly available content, and interactions are restricted to known contacts. The messaging feature is accessible via a dedicated button in the app, with notifications sent through push alerts. It is currently available only to adult users, with no support for group chats. YouTube previously discontinued its chat feature in 2019 due to low engagement but has decided to bring it back after positive testing results. The new messaging system is currently limited to users in the US, UK, Brazil, and Singapore, with no timeline for availability in Ukraine or other regions.

AppWizard

June 12, 2026

YouTube Brings In-App Sharing & Messaging To The U.S.

YouTube is expanding its in-app video sharing and messaging feature to key markets including the U.S., U.K., Brazil, Singapore, and various U.S. territories. Users aged 18 and older can share videos and engage in discussions without leaving the app. The messaging system operates through an invitation process, allowing users to send invite links that expire after seven days. Once connected, users can share long-form videos, Shorts, and live streams, and have the ability to unsend messages, block, or report others. This feature is not available for Brand Accounts and is governed by YouTube’s Community Guidelines, with content not used for ad targeting. The original messaging feature was discontinued in 2019 but was reintroduced as a pilot in Ireland and Poland in November 2025, later expanding to 31 European countries. YouTube plans to further expand this feature, though specific markets and timelines are not yet disclosed.

AppWizard

June 12, 2026

YouTube Rolls Out Updates for In-app Messaging

YouTube is introducing a native video sharing and messaging feature, rolling out in the U.S. and internationally for users aged 18 and older. This update includes a messaging icon for sharing videos, texting, and reacting to content without leaving the app, supporting all video formats. The feature follows a successful rollout in select international markets and adheres to YouTube's Community Guidelines. Users must verify their age through their Google account and be signed into a YouTube channel to access the feature.

AppWizard

June 11, 2026

YouTube Wants Your Video Conversations To Stay On YouTube

YouTube is introducing a feature that allows users to share videos, Shorts, and live streams while engaging in conversations directly on the platform, aiming to retain social interactions within its ecosystem. This functionality integrates messaging across YouTube's primary content formats, enhancing user interaction and reducing the need to navigate away from the platform for discussions. YouTube is not attempting to become a full-fledged messaging app but rather to facilitate conversations that arise from video content. A moderation note indicates awareness of safety concerns related to integrating messaging on a public platform, and the limited rollout is designed to assess effectiveness while managing moderation challenges. This development may signal a shift in video-driven conversations for brands and creators, encouraging content that fosters sharing within the app. If successful, this feature could transform sharing from an exit point into a catalyst for further engagement, enriching the user experience.

AppWizard

June 11, 2026

YouTube rolling out new in-app messaging with invite-only chats

YouTube is rolling out a new in-app messaging system that allows users to share videos, Shorts, and livestreams and engage in one-on-one conversations. A messaging icon will appear in the top-right corner of the app, and users can invite others via a URL link valid for seven days, shared through a third-party platform. Recipients must choose to allow messaging or decline. The feature is for users aged 18 and older and adheres to Community Guidelines. Users can unsend messages, block individuals, and report inappropriate content. Initially tested in Europe, it is now available in the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Singapore.

BetaBeacon

May 28, 2026

‘When we started our studio, we were building the wrong games.’ Millions of Meta Quest owners are playing games like Ug VR every month, and they’re redefining VR as we once knew it

- Facebook bought Oculus in 2014 and rebranded to Meta in 2021 to become a metaverse leader. - VR gaming is evolving towards social and communication platforms. - The success of VR games is driven by community feedback and player involvement. - Social VR games are becoming more popular, with a focus on creating and sharing content on social media platforms. - Games like Scary Baboon blend familiar mechanics with horror elements and emphasize cooperative gameplay rather than competition.

AppWizard

May 27, 2026

Warnings about removed or unsupported Play Store apps could head to Android

Google is exploring a new warning system for the Play Store that would inform users if applications on their devices have been removed or are no longer supported. This feature was suggested by tipster AssembleDebug, who found code strings indicating a security-focused alert system. The potential notifications could inform users about apps withdrawn by developers or those unavailable for other reasons. Additionally, the Play Store currently has the capability to alert users about apps that excessively drain battery life, enhancing user awareness. Earlier this year, Google introduced warnings related to excessive battery consumption, which monitor app usage and trigger alerts when limits are exceeded. Following the recent I/O 2026 event, the Play Store announced new features, including the ability to discover applications through Gemini and the introduction of Play Shorts for vertical videos.

AppWizard

May 22, 2026

Here’s what developers can do with the latest Google Play updates

During the Google I/O event, several tools were introduced to support developers, including Play Shorts for app previews, the Ask Play feature for conversational app searches, integration of apps into the Gemini app for enhanced visibility, and the Engage SDK for improved content discovery. Additionally, the Play Games Sidekick was launched to provide players with in-game information such as tips and rewards.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

Google Play is getting a huge AI upgrade with Ask Play and Play Shorts

Google has announced updates for Google Play during its I/O 2026 event, enhancing app discovery through integration with Gemini on Android devices and the web. Users will be able to discover apps directly via Gemini, and a new feature called Play Shorts will allow previews of apps through TikTok-style vertical videos. Google is also improving AI-powered developer tools for translations, subscription management, and app publishing. Developers can create Android apps using Google AI Studio with text prompts, simplifying the development process and leveraging AI capabilities. The integration aims to enhance app visibility related to over 450,000 movies, TV shows, and sports streams.