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AppWizard
April 6, 2026
Google is updating the Play Store by introducing a keyword search feature for app reviews, allowing users to search for specific terms within reviews. This feature aims to improve the user experience by helping individuals identify common issues or experiences. However, the update also removes the “device model” filter, which previously allowed users to filter reviews based on their specific device model. While the “latest version” filter has been moved to a more prominent position, the removal of the device-specific filter may hinder users seeking tailored insights related to their hardware. These changes have been observed in the latest updates but have not been officially announced by Google.
AppWizard
April 6, 2026
Samsung will discontinue its Samsung Messages app by July of this year, as announced on its website. Users are recommended to transition to Google Messages, which offers enhanced features such as Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging, group chats, and real-time typing indicators. Google Messages also includes generative AI features for photo remixing and simplifies conversation switching across devices. Samsung has been phasing out its messaging app, starting with the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Flip 6, and Galaxy S25 series, which no longer preload Samsung Messages. The final date for the app's discontinuation will be communicated through the app.
AppWizard
April 6, 2026
Apple has removed the BitChat app from its App Store in China due to directives from the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), which claimed the app contained 'illegal' content. Jack Dorsey announced this on April 5, noting that Apple's notification highlighted the need for apps to comply with local laws. The CAC referenced specific violations related to internet-based information services. While BitChat is no longer available in China, it remains accessible in other regions, and the TestFlight version is also unavailable for testing in China. BitChat operates using Bluetooth technology for messaging without internet access and supports Bitcoin transactions.
AppWizard
April 6, 2026
Samsung will discontinue the Samsung Messages app in the United States by July 2026 and is encouraging users to transition to Google Messages as their default messaging app. This change primarily affects Samsung smartphone users in the U.S., particularly those with newer Android versions. Devices released prior to 2022 may face temporary disruptions in RCS conversations, though SMS and MMS will remain functional. Newer devices, such as the Galaxy S26 series and later, will not have Samsung Messages available for download from the Galaxy Store. After July 2026, the app will be completely inaccessible, and sending messages through Samsung Messages will be limited to emergency numbers or designated contacts. Users of older Galaxy smartwatches running Tizen OS will lose access to full message conversation history. Transition steps to Google Messages include downloading the app, setting it as the default SMS app, and confirming the choice.
AppWizard
April 6, 2026
Chinese authorities have ordered the removal of Jack Dorsey’s decentralized messaging app, bitchat, from the local App Store due to concerns about its potential to disrupt information control during civil unrest. Apple complied by removing both the main and beta versions of the app. The app remains accessible outside of China. Dorsey stated that the removal reflects bitchat's influence on public discourse. The Chinese regulator cited violations of regulations that require online services capable of swaying public opinion to undergo security reviews before launch. Bitchat operates independently of traditional internet infrastructure using Bluetooth and mesh networking technology, making it resistant to censorship. It has gained attention in regions with internet restrictions and was introduced in July 2025. Bitchat has over 3 million downloads, with more than 92,000 in the past week and over 1 million installs on Google Play. Additionally, Block, the parent company, recently reduced its workforce by about 40%, equating to around 4,000 employees, due to AI implementation and process optimization.
AppWizard
April 6, 2026
The Google Play Store has introduced a new feature that allows users to search through app reviews using a search bar at the top of the reviews section. This feature is currently being rolled out after extensive testing that began last November. Users can access it by tapping on the ratings section of an app listing and selecting “See all reviews” or by using the magnifying glass icon in the Reviews and Ratings section. The search function requires at least two words to generate results and does not support real-time suggestions. It is available to users with version 50.7.24-31 of the Play Store, and updating the app can be done through the settings menu.
AppWizard
April 6, 2026
Apple has removed the decentralized peer-to-peer messaging application Bitchat from its China App Store due to violations of regulations set by the Cyberspace Administration of China, which requires security assessments for apps that can influence public opinion or facilitate social mobilization. Bitchat operates over Bluetooth and mesh networks, making it resistant to traditional government internet shutdowns. The app has over three million downloads across various platforms, with more than 92,000 downloads in the past week and over one million registered downloads on the Google Play Store.
AppWizard
April 5, 2026
DoNotNotify is an Android app that allows users to manage their notification settings with a high degree of customization. Key features include: - Real-time notification blocking using Android's NotificationListenerService. - Creation of deny and allow lists for specific notifications. - Support for simple partial matching and regular expression patterns to filter notifications. - Scheduling rules to be active during specific time frames. - Over 40 pre-configured rules for popular applications. - Automatic addition of relevant rules when compatible apps are installed. - Customizable notification retention and review of received alerts. - Tracking of blocked notifications through a block history feature. - Ability to import and export rules as JSON files. - Offline operation without data collection. To install the app, users can download it from the Google Play Store, enable notification access, and manage rules through the app's interface. Users can create new rules based on their notification history and customize settings, although advanced filtering may require experimentation.
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