YouTube app Archives

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

NewPipe Is an Ad-Free, Privacy-Respecting YouTube App for Android

YouTube's Android app is criticized for its cluttered interface, sluggish performance, and excessive ads, while also raising privacy concerns due to tracking user activity. NewPipe is a free, open-source alternative that prioritizes user privacy and removes ads. It allows background audio playback, picture-in-picture mode, and offline video downloads without requiring a YouTube Premium subscription. However, users cannot sign in with a Google account, limiting access to existing subscriptions and personalized recommendations. NewPipe enables manual subscription additions, bookmarking, and supports exporting/importing subscriptions and playlists. It is not available on the Google Play Store, requiring users to download the .apk file or use F-Droid for installation.

AppWizard

December 2, 2024

YouTube TV for Android picks up a controversial design change from the main YouTube app

YouTube TV is introducing a mini-player feature in its Android app, inspired by the main YouTube app's design. The mini-player, available in version 8.47.0, will be located at the bottom of the screen and includes controls for play, pause, rewind, fast-forward in 15-second increments, and pinch-to-zoom functionality. This development follows user backlash against a similar mini-player in the main YouTube app, which was later reverted to a stationary design due to glitches. YouTube TV aims to provide a smoother experience with this new feature.

AppWizard

December 2, 2024

The YouTube TV app for Android gets the new PiP mini-player design

The YouTube TV app for Android has introduced a new mini-player design in version 8.47.0, featuring a picture-in-picture layout that enhances user experience. The updated mini-player includes a central play-pause button and controls for skipping forward or rewinding by 15 seconds. Users can return to the main screen by tapping the center button, and the mini-player allows for pinch-to-zoom functionality. While the default size remains small, the update aligns the YouTube TV app more closely with the overall YouTube ecosystem. Users have expressed appreciation for the intuitive controls, although some have noted the occasional return of the older mini-player style.

AppWizard

December 2, 2024

YouTube TV for Android gets resizable PiP-style miniplayer

YouTube TV on Android devices has introduced a revamped miniplayer that now operates as a picture-in-picture window. The previous miniplayer was anchored to the bottom bar and displayed the program name with a progress bar. The new design features play/pause controls, 15-second rewind and skip buttons, and a close option. Users can expand the view with a tap and utilize pinch-to-zoom functionality. This update is part of version 8.47.0 of YouTube TV for Android and aims to enhance usability and align the miniplayer experience across YouTube applications.

AppWizard

November 12, 2024

YouTube faces new glitches on Android, leaving users frustrated

Users of the YouTube Android app are experiencing glitches, including videos pausing unexpectedly when exiting full-screen mode and the mini-player disappearing when swiping down, leaving only audio playing. Reports indicate that videos pause randomly upon exiting full-screen, with no option to restart them manually, and that swiping down results in the mini-player vanishing. Users have noted that resetting the app provides only a temporary fix, and the root cause of the issues is unclear, possibly linked to a recent app update or server-side changes by Google. A temporary workaround suggested is to uninstall recent updates of the app.

AppWizard

November 11, 2024

YouTube is testing the worst change ever in its Android app

Recent changes in the YouTube app for Android have altered the swipe-down gesture used for fullscreen video playback. This gesture now plays the next video instead of exiting fullscreen mode, aligning with similar functionality in YouTube Shorts. Users have expressed concerns about this change disrupting their established viewing habits and muscle memory. The swipe-down action now complicates the immersive experience of long-form content, as it does not allow for a quick return to the standard viewing interface. While the button option to enter and exit fullscreen remains, many users prefer the convenience of gesture controls. The modification is currently in a limited testing phase, with no official confirmation from Google. Community feedback shows a preference for retaining the original swipe gesture for fullscreen navigation.

AppWizard

October 24, 2024

YouTube could soon make it easier to stop binging past your bedtime (APK teardown)

The YouTube app for Android is testing a beta version (19.43.32) that may simplify the activation of bedtime reminders by integrating it into the video player window. Users could set reminders in 15-minute increments or receive notifications when the current video ends. Options for time frames include 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes, as well as a reminder when the video concludes.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Android fans must learn to ‘screen lock’ apps so nosy pals can’t snoop on pics

App pinning is a feature on Android devices that allows users to restrict access to their phone while sharing the screen with others. It can be found in the Settings app under Security > Advanced > App Pinning. Once enabled, users can pin an app's screen, preventing others from accessing other applications unless they enter the user's passcode. To pin an app, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold, then tap the app's icon and select Pin. Unpinning can be done through various navigation methods depending on the device's settings. Additionally, Android offers Guest Mode, which creates a separate profile for temporary users, allowing them to use the device without accessing the owner's private information.

BetaBeacon

October 12, 2024

Xbox Cloud Gaming “Bring Your Own Games” rollout begins in November 2024. Here’s what to expect on regions, game library size, access on iPhone, Android, and more.

Xbox Cloud Gaming will start allowing users to purchase games to own outside of Game Pass starting in November 2024.

AppWizard

October 10, 2024

The YouTube app is about to get a big change for millions of users — here’s how

YouTube is experimenting with a new user interface design for its Android app, inspired by its Smart TV layout, and is conducting A/B testing on this redesign. Changes include repositioning the video title above the progress bar, relocating the channel icon and subscriber count, and moving the expand button to the top left corner. The forward and back buttons have been removed in fullscreen mode, appearing only when the video is paused. Audience interaction buttons have been repositioned above the progress bar, and YouTube is integrating AI features for Premium users, allowing them to ask questions about the video. New advertisements will also appear when a video is paused.