smartphone features Archives

AppWizard

June 22, 2026

Pixel Audio Memory could upgrade song ID with new note-taking tool

Google is expanding its music recognition capabilities with a new feature called Audio Memory, which will enhance the existing Now Playing functionality. Audio Memory will automatically identify songs using a local database, and if a song isn't recognized, a digital fingerprint may be sent to Google for a secure cloud search. Background conversations and audio will remain private and not be transmitted to Google. Users will also have the option to manually identify songs via a cloud search. The onboarding text suggests that Audio Memory could track both music and important conversations, indicating its potential as an AI note-taker. Early interface glimpses show that users will be able to identify ambient music and songs from other applications, although details on conversation tracking are still unclear. The project is codenamed "blueflax," and while features are in development, not all may be included in the final release.

AppWizard

June 5, 2026

Now There’s Finally a Way to Get Apple CarPlay in Your GM-Built EV

General Motors plans to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in its electric vehicles. In response, EVPlay has introduced the EVPlay LT, a device that allows users to continue using these smartphone integration features in GM-built EVs. The EVPlay LT costs , requires no subscription fees, and offers both wired and wireless connectivity. It is compatible with various GM electric vehicles, including the 2024–2026 Chevy Equinox EV, Blazer EV, Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Hummer EV, and Cadillac Escalade IQ. The setup involves downloading an app to the vehicle's infotainment system and connecting the device via USB, which takes about two minutes. EVPlay also offers a premium version, the EVPlay Max, priced at 9, which includes additional features like video streaming and gaming. However, EVPlay has noted the risk that GM could disable the software after installation.

AppWizard

June 4, 2026

This Android App Lets You Take Photos That Look Straight Out Of A Compact Camera

AI enhances smartphone cameras, such as the Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy, improving image quality but potentially compromising authenticity. VWFNDR + MBL is an Android app developed by VWFNDR Camera Co. that replicates traditional camera experiences, focusing on still photography with no selfie mode. It offers six aspect ratios, adjustable exposure compensation, and various exposure modes. The app supports optical image stabilization and generates both DNG and JPEG files, embedding authenticity records. It features a minimalist user interface for easy access to settings and allows customization of the control panel. Users can view and manage captured photos in a built-in gallery.

AppWizard

December 7, 2025

Creating your own Android wallpaper isn’t hard, and it’s totally worth it

A recent poll by Android Authority found that among respondents, 32% create wallpapers using images from their cameras, 7% use drawing apps or wallpaper creators, 9% let their phones generate wallpapers, 23% rely on wallpaper apps, 27% download wallpapers from the internet, and 2% indicated other methods. Users can create personalized wallpapers through drawing, photography, or by using smartphone features that generate wallpapers automatically. Online tools like Canva and Kapwing are also available for those who want to design their own wallpapers.

AppWizard

September 30, 2025

Nothing’s new AI OS isn’t really an OS, or new

Nothing has launched an app store called Playground, dedicated to AI-generated smartphone applications, built on Android. This initiative is part of a broader vision termed Essential, which includes various AI-related products. Playground allows users to create simple apps using written prompts, with functionalities like mood tracking and expense management. Currently, users can only create widgets and must use a web platform to develop apps before installing them on their devices. Future enhancements may enable app creation directly on phones, potentially through voice commands. Playground also encourages a collaborative creator economy, allowing users to remix apps. Nothing remains committed to Android and has no plans to alter its foundational code.