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Android 17 QPR2 Beta 4 is shaping up to be Google’s best beta yet
AppWizard
September 1, 2026

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 4 is shaping up to be Google’s best beta yet

Android 17 QPR2 has reached Platform Stability with the release of Beta 4, locking the application programming interfaces (APIs) and allowing developers to refine their apps. The update focuses on system polish and bug fixes rather than new features. Google has addressed issues affecting Pixel users, including overheating, unexpected reboots, gesture navigation glitches, battery charging limitations, Recents screen problems, Bluetooth audio inconsistencies, and screen-recording complications. Hardware support enhancements include fixes for USB-C XR mirroring, compatibility with 3D smart-glasses displays, and improvements to low-light Face Unlock functionality. The beta journey began on July 20, with Beta 1, followed by Beta 2 on August 3 and Beta 3 shortly after. Beta 4 includes critical bug fixes such as resolving thermal management issues, battery charging behavior, gesture navigation refinements, and fixes for the transparent status bar during full-screen video playback. Other improvements address app drawer search issues, Bluetooth audio routing, Recents screen freezing, and screen-recording audio bugs. Beta 4 reinstates screen mirroring for USB-C XR glasses and resolves issues with 3D mode for smart glasses. Feedback from early testers has been positive, with reports of reduced lag and improved performance. However, some users have noted oversized text and lower display resolution issues, which can be resolved by rebooting. A persistent Bluetooth routing issue for incoming calls has been reported across all QPR2 betas. The update is being rolled out to various Pixel phones and tablets, with a download size of approximately 671MB on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. Existing Pixel owners in the beta program will receive the update over the air, but exiting the program after installation may result in data loss.
I test Windows laptops for a living, and these are the 7 features I can't pass up
Winsage
August 29, 2026

I test Windows laptops for a living, and these are the 7 features I can’t pass up

The author has spent five years testing laptops and has identified seven essential features for selecting a Windows laptop based on their experience and travel needs: 1. An OLED display for better contrast and deeper blacks. 2. A 14-inch chassis that is lightweight, ideal for travel. 3. At least 512GB of storage to accommodate large files. 4. At least one USB-A port for compatibility with older hardware. 5. All-day battery life, enhanced by Intel's "Lunar Lake" processors. 6. A backlit keyboard for usability in low-light environments. 7. No proprietary chargers, favoring USB-C for flexibility and convenience. The author notes that while many brands offer these features, pricing has been affected by the ongoing memory crisis, pushing preferred models into a higher price range.
Everything you need to head back to school with a new Dell PC is here — fast Windows laptops with essential accessories on sale
Winsage
August 19, 2026

Everything you need to head back to school with a new Dell PC is here — fast Windows laptops with essential accessories on sale

Dell's official store is offering discounts on PCs, with back-to-school deals providing savings of up to 0. The new Dell XPS 13 laptop features a 13.4-inch 2.5K touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate, weighs 2.2 lbs, and is powered by a standard 65W USB-C AC adapter. It includes a built-in webcam for Windows Hello face unlock and USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The student pricing for the XPS 13 is 9.99, while the standard price is ,199.99.
You Can Use Your Old Android Phone As A Universal Remote - Here's How
AppWizard
August 16, 2026

You Can Use Your Old Android Phone As A Universal Remote – Here’s How

Repurposing an old Android phone can enhance home entertainment by connecting it to a smart TV through various methods. Both devices should be on the same Wi-Fi network to use mobile apps like Roku or Amazon's Fire TV remote app. If no official app is available, generic options like Universal TV Remote can be found on Google Play, although they may include ads. Bluetooth connectivity is also an option, exemplified by the Bluetooth Remote app. If Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is not feasible, an infrared (IR) blaster can be purchased to turn the smartphone into a universal remote without needing an internet connection. IR blasters connect via the USB-C port and communicate with the TV's built-in components. Various IR blasters are available, including standard models and more advanced versions that support voice commands. Most Wi-Fi and Bluetooth apps are free, while IR blasters are affordable and widely available.
Dell is blaming Microsoft's Windows 11 updates for a bug that broke 245+ PC models, but it's all good now
Winsage
August 9, 2026

Dell is blaming Microsoft’s Windows 11 updates for a bug that broke 245+ PC models, but it’s all good now

Recent updates to Windows 11 have caused issues for users of Dell PCs, resulting in shutdowns, performance degradation, and overheating. Dell has released a list of approximately 245 affected models, including Alienware systems. Microsoft deployed an out-of-band update (KB5121767) to address these issues, which stemmed from an incompatibility between the Intel Innovation Platform Framework Processor Participant driver and the Windows USB-C Connection Manager. Affected devices could experience significant performance setbacks, unexpected shutdowns, increased heat output, and battery drain. Users are advised to install specific builds to avoid these problems, as rolling back the update is not an option. Microsoft is also working on improving driver quality through a new Driver Quality Initiative.
This Game Boy Advance clone is a cheap Android handheld from AYANEO
BetaBeacon
August 6, 2026

This Game Boy Advance clone is a cheap Android handheld from AYANEO

The AYANEO KONKR Pocket Advance is a handheld game console that resembles the Nintendo Game Boy Advance but with modern features. It has a 3.5 inch display, MediaTek Helio G90T processor, and runs on an Android-based operating system. The device is available for pre-order with different configurations and prices, with limited production runs expected. The KONKR Pocket Advance features a unique design ideal for classic GBA titles, along with additional buttons for enhanced gameplay. It also includes various modern features such as a 4,000 mAh battery, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C port, microSD card reader, and gyroscope. The device aims to provide a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality for gamers looking for a portable gaming experience.
HMD Asha 305: a sub-$75 Android phone with no Google apps
AppWizard
July 28, 2026

HMD Asha 305: a sub-$75 Android phone with no Google apps

HMD is reintroducing the Asha brand with the launch of the Asha 305, priced at PHP 3,999 in the Philippines and around 2,390 baht in Thailand. The phone features a Unisoc SC9832E processor, options of 2–3GB of RAM, and 16–32GB of storage. It has a 5-inch display with a resolution of 854×480 pixels, a 5MP rear camera, a 2MP front camera, and a 2,500mAh battery with 5W charging. The Asha 305 operates on Android 14 Go without Google Mobile Services, offering around 100 pre-loaded apps. HMD has not announced availability or pricing for the US or UK markets.
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