smartphone app Archives

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Amazon Shuts Down Appstore for Android Phones After 14 Years: No More Apps Coming to the Platform

Amazon will close its Appstore for Android smartphones on August 20, marking the end of its mobile app initiatives after over a decade of challenges. The Appstore, launched in 2011, struggled to compete with Google Play Store and had only 0.1% installation on Android devices by its shutdown announcement. Existing users can continue to use downloaded apps until at least August 2025, but Amazon has stopped selling Amazon Coins. The closure coincides with ongoing antitrust scrutiny of Google. Amazon will still operate its Appstore for Fire devices, which use a modified version of Android.

AppWizard

October 11, 2024

Xbox games will soon be available to purchase in the Xbox App on Android in the US

Xbox owners in the United States will be able to purchase and play games directly through the Xbox App on Android devices starting in November. This development follows a US judge's ruling that Google operates a monopoly through its smartphone app store, requiring third-party storefront applications to be accessible via the Google Play Store. Microsoft will allow gamers to buy Xbox titles on their Android devices and stream them using Xbox Cloud Gaming. Google plans to contest the ruling, arguing that it competes with Apple and that the decision overlooks this competition. Microsoft is also working on a web-based Xbox mobile game store, although its release timeline is uncertain.

AppWizard

October 8, 2024

Federal Judge Orders Google to Open Android App Store Amid Antitrust Pressure | PYMNTS.com

U.S. District Judge James Donato has ruled that Google must open its Android app store to competition, stemming from a case initiated by Epic Games, which claims Google's Play Store operates as an illegal monopoly. Epic Games seeks changes that would allow businesses to bypass Google’s app store and manage in-app purchases independently. While some requests have been granted, not all have been approved, and Google is expected to appeal. This ruling could significantly alter the Android ecosystem and foster innovation in app development. Additionally, Google faces other antitrust challenges, including a finding that its search engine operations violate anti-monopoly laws and a lawsuit regarding competition suppression in online advertising. These legal pressures could profoundly impact Google's business model and the technology sector as a whole.

AppWizard

September 23, 2024

Cancer charity welcomes new smartphone app for melanoma patients

The University of Aberdeen is developing a new app to assist melanoma survivors in monitoring their skin for potential recurrence of the disease. The app features an AI chatbot that allows users to upload images and report skin changes, enabling healthcare professionals to provide prompt medical attention. This initiative received £421,000 in funding from Cancer Research UK and aims to encourage monthly skin checks, as approximately 17,500 individuals are diagnosed with melanoma in the UK each year. The app's development will involve collaboration with around 50 melanoma survivors and 20 healthcare professionals. Early detection is emphasized as crucial for successful treatment, and while AI will not replace healthcare professionals, it will support them in guiding patients. Dr. Catherine Elliott from Cancer Research UK expressed support for the project, highlighting its aim to improve outcomes for cancer survivors.

AppWizard

August 30, 2024

Game Demo: Minecraft Dungeons – News

Players can navigate through dungeons inspired by classic designs in a new Minecraft game, either solo or with friends, facing various mobs across diverse landscapes. Save data will be preserved for those who purchase the game during or after the promotional period. Nintendo Switch Online members can earn 100 Platinum Points by trying out the Game Trial. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for certain features, and a free trial is available, which converts to a paid membership unless canceled. Additional accessories may be needed for multiplayer mode, and a Nintendo Account is necessary to earn and redeem points.

AppWizard

July 25, 2024

Google Phone’s AI-powered scam detection looks nearly ready to go (APK teardown)

Google is working on implementing Gemini Nano-powered scam call detection in its Phone app, with a distinction being drawn between scams and spam. The internal codename for this system is "Sharpie," and it will be opt-in for users. The system will rely on AI to detect scam calls, with the goal of helping to protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to scams.