system apps Archives

AppWizard

December 25, 2025

Here’s the latest on Google’s work to enhance Android backups

Google is refining its backup functionalities for Android users, focusing on the downloads folder and per-app backup settings. Users will soon be able to back up files from their downloads folder, but edits made to these files will not sync with the backup on Google Drive. Additionally, a new notification will inform users that disabling backups for a specific app will result in the deletion of its backup copy. The interface for managing app backups is also being updated to differentiate between user applications and system processes. These features are currently in beta and not yet publicly available.

AppWizard

December 24, 2025

Android Automotive Adds PIN Lock for Apps

Google is enhancing its Android Automotive platform with a feature called Sensitive App Protection, which allows drivers to secure individual applications with a PIN lock. This feature ensures that sensitive information remains confidential in shared vehicle environments by enabling drivers to restrict access to specific apps while allowing passengers to manage entertainment options. Users can set a unique 4- to 16-digit code for app locks, and recovery is possible via a linked Google Account, although it may involve deleting the locked apps or their data. Most apps from the Play Store can be locked, except for certain system apps like Assistant, Maps, and Settings, which remain accessible. The feature is being rolled out as an unbundled system app, meaning automakers must choose to integrate it, and it will be available through over-the-air updates for vehicles equipped with Google services from various manufacturers. Automakers are expected to restrict PIN entry while the vehicle is in motion for safety reasons.

AppWizard

December 16, 2025

Google’s making a silly and annoying change to how you uninstall system app updates

Google has removed the option for Android users to uninstall updates for system apps directly through the Play Store. Users can no longer click an uninstall button within app listings, and only an open button is available. This change affects devices running Play Store versions from 49.1.32-31 to 49.2.25-31, including system apps that do not appear in the app drawer, such as Android Auto and Pixel Camera Services. Users must now access app settings through the device's main settings menu to uninstall updates, which complicates app management. This change follows Google's recent enhancements allowing remote uninstallation of apps from multiple devices, raising questions about the rationale behind the removal of the uninstall option for system app updates.