smartphones

BetaBeacon
July 23, 2026
Don't Starve Together, a popular co-op survival simulator originally developed by Klei Entertainment, is now available on mobile devices for iOS and Android users. The mobile adaptation maintains key features of the game and includes optimized touchscreen interface, controller support, and cloud saves. The game is currently available at a discounted price of .99 for a limited time.
Winsage
July 23, 2026
Huawei will launch its first PCs powered by HarmonyOS in September, aiming to reduce China's reliance on Windows and create a homegrown computing ecosystem. The rollout will initially target government departments, financial institutions, and enterprise customers. HarmonyOS has been developed in response to U.S. sanctions, which restricted Huawei's access to Google services, advanced chips, and Windows licensing. The operating system has achieved high-level Chinese security certifications, making it suitable for sensitive government use. Huawei plans to build an interconnected ecosystem similar to Apple's, integrating HarmonyOS laptops with its other devices.
Winsage
July 21, 2026
The latest Creativity Trend Report from Michaels indicates a 919% increase in searches for traditional hobbies like journaling, sewing, and crafting parties, with yarn accessory sales growing by 40% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects a cultural movement, particularly among Gen Z, who are experiencing AI fatigue and seeking balance between technology and analog activities. Microsoft has faced challenges with its Copilot+ initiative, leading to user backlash and a retraction of AI features from less effective applications. The company is considering adapting AI features for GPUs and is exploring ways to enhance user focus in Windows 11, potentially aligning with the analog revival trend.
AppWizard
July 21, 2026
X has launched a completely redesigned Android app after nearly a year of development, emphasizing faster loading times, smoother scrolling, and improved notifications. The app has been rebuilt from the ground up, allowing for enhanced reliability and the potential for quicker feature rollouts. X is also working on optimizing the app for older Android smartphones and expanding functionalities, including enhanced hosting features for Spaces. The updated app is available globally on the Google Play Store for existing users to update.
AppWizard
July 20, 2026
Google Maps is introducing a live speedometer feature to Android Auto, which has been a long-awaited addition for users. This feature is currently available to a limited number of beta users on version 26.29.02.946673643. The speedometer will be displayed next to the speed limit indicator and will change color if the driver exceeds the posted limit. The rollout is server-side, meaning updating the app does not guarantee access to the feature. Google advises that the speedometer should be used as a reference tool rather than a replacement for the vehicle's built-in speedometer.
AppWizard
July 19, 2026
The demand for faster typing on smartphones has increased, particularly for professionals, students, and interns. Swipe typing, also known as Glide Typing on Gboard, allows users to glide their finger across the keyboard without lifting it for each letter, significantly enhancing typing speed. To use this method on a Google Pixel 8 with Android 16 and Gboard, users should tap on a text box, slide their finger across the keyboard, and lift it only when finishing a word. For Samsung Keyboard users, Swype mode must be enabled in the settings. Gboard's swipe typing feature becomes more intelligent with use, providing word suggestions and allowing users to teach it new words. This feature is effective in multiple languages, including Urdu, and can also be used on Wear OS smartwatches. Although there may be an initial learning curve, swipe typing can greatly improve typing efficiency and is often met with curiosity from others.
AppWizard
July 17, 2026
GameNative 1.1.1's pre-release adds Nexus Mods support for managing mods, per-game profiles, and toggles. The update supports up to four players and features an improved controller editor with Xbox-style shoulder labels. It includes GOG recommendations, Steam collection support, and UI tweaks. The pre-release is available on GitHub.
AppWizard
July 17, 2026
Phocus Mobile has launched on Android, allowing users to process, view, and export RAW photographs from smartphones and tablets. The app is compatible with Hasselblad cameras such as the X2D II 100C, X2D 100C, and 907X & CFV 100C. It features the Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS), AI-powered noise reduction, editing tools, and a photo management system. For HDR-capable devices, it processes images with full dynamic range and fine-tunes HDR highlights. The app includes Hasselblad Natural Noise Reduction (HNNR) for low-light photography, reducing noise in 100MP RAW images in about 15 to 20 seconds. Phocus Mobile offers two processing modes: Purity Mode for noise reduction and Detail Mode for capturing microtextures and fine details.
AppWizard
July 17, 2026
The government has mandated that all work-related communications for state and municipal employees must transition to the "Max" messenger platform by 2030. The "Max" platform was developed by "Kommunikatsionnaya platforma," with a beta version launched in March 2025 and becoming a mandatory pre-installed application on new smartphones in Russia by September 2025. As of March 2026, "Max" had 100 million registered users and offered features like audio/video calls, chat, voice messaging, large file sharing, and money transfers. In July, the EU imposed sanctions on VK, the parent company of "Kommunikatsionnaya platforma," and "Max" was removed from the Apple App Store in June and from Google Play recently. VK stated that its services remain functional and are available on alternative platforms such as RuStore and Huawei AppGallery. Negotiations with Apple are ongoing to restore "Max" to the App Store.
Search