timers Archives

AppWizard

October 13, 2026

Nothing OS 5.0 and Android 17 Arrive on Phone (3)

Nothing OS 5.0 and Android 17 updates for the Phone (3) have begun rolling out after a beta testing phase that started in August 2026. The rollout will be staged and vary by region. Users can check for updates by navigating to Settings > System > System update. Key features of the updates include: - Introduction of the Geist typeface for improved visual clarity. - Enhancements for faster app launches and smoother multitasking. - Redesigned home screen with transparent widgets and color-tinted icons. - Batch editing capability for home screen items. - New Away Time widget for tracking phone usage. - Lock screen personalization with new clock designs. - Revamped settings interface for better navigation. - Cleaner status bar with custom icons and animations. - Updated camera interface and enhanced QR code scanning. - Dedicated Glyph app for the Glyph Interface lighting system. - Glyph Timer widget for setting timers from the home screen. - Redesigned Bluetooth controls for quicker access. - Option to separate notifications and Quick Settings. - Live Updates feature displaying ongoing notifications in the status bar. - Introduction of Noto 3D emoji for messaging. - Expanded dark theme on an app-by-app basis.

AppWizard

September 30, 2026

This new Android app fixes everything wrong with Google Clock

The Google Clock app has faced criticism for its alarm functionality and reliability, prompting users to seek alternatives. Pixel Clock has emerged as a new contender, offering a user-friendly design and features such as a Wake-up mission that requires users to solve math problems to dismiss alarms. It includes alarm presets for napping, a sophisticated timer feature called Pixel Timer for time-blocking, and Smart Presets for various time management needs. The app also tracks timer analytics on a Stats page. Despite minor bugs, Pixel Clock has made a strong impression and is seen as a more reliable option compared to Google Clock.

AppWizard

September 30, 2026

Gemini replaces Google Assistant on Android, with no way back

Gemini has officially replaced Google Assistant on mobile devices, a transition that began last year. Google has phased out the option to revert to Google Assistant, with the removal process starting in September and affecting various devices including smartphones and tablets. Users have reported that the switch-back option is disappearing from the Gemini app. While Nest and Google Home speakers currently retain Google Assistant, vehicles with Google built-in will continue to support it. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with Gemini, noting it lacks certain features of Google Assistant and has issues with accuracy in responses.

Winsage

September 29, 2026

I replaced Windows’ Snipping Tool with ShareX for screenshots, but the best part is everything else it can do

The Snipping Tool in Windows has been modernized in Windows 11 but still has bugs that can disrupt user workflow. ShareX is a free and open-source alternative that excels in screenshot capabilities and offers advanced features, including precise selection tools, real-time editing, video recording, and GIF creation. ShareX supports multiple upload targets, including Imgur and cloud services like OneDrive and Google Drive, and allows users to upload various file types, including text documents to Pastebin. It includes bonus features such as a video converter, image comparison tools, and customization options for hotkeys. However, ShareX may be overwhelming for newcomers seeking basic screenshot functions, for whom the Snipping Tool remains a valid choice.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

Android 17 QPR1: What Pixel Gets

Android 17 QPR1 began its stable rollout in the United States on September 15, 2026, coinciding with Google’s September Pixel Drop. This update introduces the Pause Point feature, which temporarily halts access to a selected app for 10 seconds, allowing users to reconsider their choice. The update is compatible with Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 through the Pixel 10a generations, as well as the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold models. The rollout is staged, leading to varying delivery times for users. Pause Point imposes a 10-second delay when accessing a configured app, offering options like breathing exercises and alternative app suggestions. Disabling Pause Point requires a phone restart. Scam protection features vary by region, with Gboard scam warnings initially exclusive to the U.S. for Pixel 6 and newer devices, while notification-based Scam Detection has expanded to nine additional regions, excluding Spain. Android 17 QPR1 also includes a refresh of the Pixel interface, adding a new Keyboard tile to Quick Settings and improving visual aesthetics with enhanced translucent and blurred backgrounds. Screen recording defaults to capturing a single app, and the VIPs widget has been upgraded for easier calling and messaging. Google and Audible have collaborated to provide Harry Potter-themed packs for Pixel users, featuring customized wallpapers and icons, along with a two-month Audible trial, though eligibility conditions are unspecified.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Dutch foundation sues Epic Games over Fortnite’s “pressure” tactics that drive spending

The Massaschade & Consument Foundation has filed a lawsuit against Epic Games, alleging that Fortnite uses deceptive marketing tactics targeting younger players. The foundation claims that countdown clocks during gameplay create a false sense of urgency for limited-time offers, which often remain available after the timers expire, leading to confusion and potential overspending. The lawsuit raises ethical concerns about the responsibility of game developers to protect young gamers. The outcome could impact marketing strategies and consumer protection laws in the gaming industry.

Winsage

September 17, 2026

Microsoft Azure CTO used AI to port 20-year-old Windows tool to macOS in two days: “I was flabbergasted”

Mark Russinovich, the Chief Technology Officer of Microsoft Azure, transitioned ZoomIt, a Windows tool for screen zooming, recording, and annotation, to macOS using artificial intelligence. Originally developed to aid in teaching Windows Internals, ZoomIt has been enhanced over the years with features like screen recording and webcam overlays. Despite initial reluctance due to time constraints, Russinovich utilized AI to create a functional macOS version in just two days, significantly faster than anticipated. The AI model leveraged the original Windows code, allowing for a high-fidelity clone of ZoomIt that includes essential features. ZoomIt for macOS is now available as a free and open-source tool, requiring macOS 14 Sonoma or newer, and can be installed via Homebrew or from Microsoft’s GitHub repository. Users can access its functionalities through keyboard shortcuts and a menu bar icon.

BetaBeacon

September 9, 2026

Temple of Osiris Comes to iOS, Android: Check What’s New

Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris is now available on mobile for iOS and Android, offering players the chance to try out the first level for free before purchasing the full game for USD 9.99, EUR 8.99, or GBP 7.49. The game features touch controls, controller support, single-player, and multiplayer modes, as players team up with Lara, Carter Bell, Isis, and Horus to search for the lost Fragments of Osiris and battle enemies.

AppWizard

September 4, 2026

Digital Wellbeing could get multi-app timers, a new dashboard, Bedtime mode tweaks, and more

Google is revamping the interface of its Digital Wellbeing app to enhance user experience by focusing on features like app activity, app timers, and Bedtime mode. The current interface is cluttered, and the redesign aims to simplify navigation and improve accessibility. The app timers feature will allow users to set collective daily limits for multiple apps simultaneously, making it more efficient. The Bedtime mode will change to eliminate collapsible sections, displaying all options by default and prioritizing the Bedtime routine at the top of the page. These enhancements are still experimental, and it is uncertain when they will be available to users.

AppWizard

September 4, 2026

Google Clock rolls out redesign of Timers with presets on Android

Google Clock has introduced a redesigned Timers tab with a fresh design and new app icon. The update includes preset timers for 1, 5, 10, and 15 minutes, which can be started with a tap. The interface now uses full labels for Hours, Minutes, and Seconds instead of abbreviations. A green "Start" button has replaced the former icon, and the number pad has a flatter appearance without circular backgrounds. The layout for multiple timers has been changed to a grid format for better navigation, while the single timer design remains the same with a repositioned pause button and a reset option outside the countdown. This redesign is part of a server-side update linked to version 9.1 of Google Clock. Users may need to force stop the app to see the changes.