tech giant Archives

AppWizard

April 17, 2026

Google wants AI to make Android apps and make them well

AI is being utilized in software development, particularly in coding, with tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini enabling users to create functional applications. However, AI models often lag behind updates in the Android core, leading to potential bugs and security issues in the apps they generate. Google has responded by providing real-time access to its official Android guidelines for AI coding agents and has introduced new tools to improve app development. This initiative allows AI agents to access the latest information from various developer resources, ensuring they can provide up-to-date guidance. Additionally, scaling AI applications across different devices has become easier, allowing Android apps to transition smoothly to platforms like smartwatches and tablets. The use of AI in app development is seen as a beneficial application amidst mixed feelings about AI-generated content in creative fields.

AppWizard

April 17, 2026

Aptoide sues Google over alleged Android App Store monopoly

Aptoide has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google in federal court in San Francisco, alleging that Google imposes unlawful restrictions that hinder competition in the Android app ecosystem. The lawsuit claims that Google maintains an "anticompetitive chokehold" on app distribution, which limits the growth of rival app stores. Aptoide seeks an injunction against these practices and unspecified triple damages. The company has over 436,000 apps and more than 200 million annual users, and it argues that Google directs developers to its own platform, Google Play, while restricting access to popular applications that could benefit alternative app stores. This lawsuit comes amid increased scrutiny of Google, which is facing multiple antitrust cases in the U.S. and has recently been deemed a monopoly in a 2024 ruling regarding its search engine.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

Your next Android app might be AI-made, and Google wants it done right

Aspiring developers can now use advanced AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini to generate code for Android applications with minimal coding expertise. However, AI-generated apps may rely on outdated information, leading to inefficiencies and bugs. In response, Google is providing AI coding agents with access to current Android developer resources and introducing tools like a new Android Command Line Interface (CLI) and task-specific skills to improve app development. This initiative aims to ensure that apps follow the latest guidelines and practices. Additionally, Google is streamlining the process for scaling applications across various Android devices, which will benefit end-users by delivering better-optimized AI-generated applications.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

Google Play is changing how Android apps access your contacts and location

Google has updated its Google Play policies to enhance user privacy and protect businesses from fraud. Starting in October, developers will have access to Play policy insights in Android Studio to help comply with new features. On October 27, the Play Console will implement pre-review checks for contact and location permissions. The Android Contact Picker will be the standard for accessing contacts, requiring apps to use it or privacy-focused alternatives. Developers must update their apps to use the picker and submit a Play Developer Declaration for ongoing contact access. A new location button will be introduced for precise location requests, and apps must use it for one-time access. Developers should review their location data requests and include the onlyForLocationButton flag if targeting Android 17 and above. The Play Console will also introduce an official account transfer feature for ownership changes, effective May 27, with a mandatory 7-day security cool-down period for transfers. Unofficial transfers are prohibited.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

You can now get YouTube Premium for half price with Google AI Pro

Google is offering a 50% discount on the annual YouTube Premium subscription for new subscribers to the Google AI Pro plan, reducing the yearly cost significantly. This promotion follows recent price hikes for YouTube Premium in the U.S. and aims to attract users to the AI Pro subscription, which has increased its storage capacity from 2TB to 5TB at no extra cost. The discounted rate will continue upon renewal, but it is only available to the Google One plan manager or family organizer, not to other family plan members. Subscribers will receive features like background playback, offline downloads, ad-free viewing, and access to Gemini-powered functionalities.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

Your Android phone could soon get a better way to sniff out spoofed calls

Google is enhancing the security of incoming calls on Android devices by integrating a "Verified Caller" feature into Google Play Services. This feature aims to combat scam calls that use Do-Not-Originate (DNO) numbers by cross-referencing incoming calls against a database of DNO numbers to flag potential scams. The system will work with existing applications, such as banking apps, to monitor specific DNO numbers. The feature is still in development and its effectiveness will depend on business participation and strict verification processes by Google.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

Microsoft Overhauls Windows Update for First Time in 15 Years Starting April

Microsoft is transforming its Windows Update system, starting in April, marking the most significant overhaul in over 15 years. The new system will centralize the management of operating system patches, drivers, and application updates, aiming to enhance user experience by simplifying the update process and improving reliability. Users will experience fewer interruptions, as updates will be consolidated into a single restart cycle, and updates will be scheduled during idle times to minimize disruptions. The update system will also expand support for driver and hardware updates. This transformation aligns with Microsoft's long-term vision for AI-enhanced PCs and cloud-integrated systems, enabling scalable updates for AI features and improving compliance for enterprise users. The rollout will begin gradually in April to mitigate risks associated with compatibility and execution.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

Windows 11 tool brings a macOS feature to the desktop — and I can’t believe this useful trick isn’t in Microsoft’s OS already

A new utility for Windows 11 called PeekDesktop has been developed by Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft executive. This tool allows users to minimize all open windows by clicking on an empty area of the desktop, similar to a feature in macOS. While Windows 11 already has keyboard shortcuts for minimizing windows, PeekDesktop offers a more intuitive option, particularly for users transitioning from macOS. The design of PeekDesktop aims to provide comfort for these users and is part of Microsoft's strategy to enhance user satisfaction amid increasing competition, especially with the recent launch of Apple's MacBook Neo.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Another rival is coming for Google over its app store practices

Aptoide has filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against Google in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, claiming that Google's practices create an uneven playing field for independent app stores. The lawsuit accuses Google of using tactics that hinder competition in Android app distribution and in-app billing, particularly through OEM lock-in agreements and developer exclusivity deals. Aptoide asserts that these practices restrict access to the Android ecosystem and create barriers for users seeking alternatives to the Google Play Store. The company has over 200 million direct users annually and a catalog of approximately 436,000 apps. Aptoide argues that Google's actions have stifled its ability to compete effectively on pricing and policy. Google has not yet responded to Aptoide's allegations.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Aptoide Files Antitrust Lawsuit Against Google Over Android App Distribution

Aptoide, an independent Android app store, has filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against Google in the US District Court for the Northern District of California on April 15, 2026. The lawsuit accuses Google of unfair practices that hinder competition in Android app distribution and in-app billing, including OEM lock-in agreements and developer exclusivity deals. Aptoide claims these practices disadvantage independent app stores and limit their ability to compete. Aptoide serves over 200 million users annually and offers about 436,000 apps. The lawsuit follows scrutiny of Google after the Epic Games case, which led to some policy adjustments that Aptoide argues are insufficient.