YouTube app Archives

AppWizard

June 16, 2026

3 unofficial Android Auto apps I installed to make my car screen more useful

Android Auto offers a limited selection of applications due to restrictions imposed by Google, but users can enhance its functionality by sideloading unofficial apps from outside the Play Store. Sideloading allows for the installation of additional applications that can significantly improve the driving experience, especially for owners of older vehicles. To sideload apps on Android Auto, users must unlock developer mode on their phone and Android Auto, then install the Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) to access unofficial apps. Three notable sideloaded apps include: 1. CarStream: Allows users to access YouTube on Android Auto, enabling video searches and subscriptions while the vehicle is in motion. 2. AA Browser: Provides a web browsing experience on Android Auto, ideal for accessing websites that may not support the platform natively. 3. Fermata Auto: An all-in-one media toolkit that plays locally stored videos and music, screen mirrors, and allows live TV viewing through IPTV links.

AppWizard

June 13, 2026

YouTube Brings Back In-App Messaging Feature: Here’s How To Use It

YouTube has reintroduced its messaging feature, allowing users to share videos and engage in conversations directly within the app. This feature is currently available in the United States and select other regions, with plans for a wider rollout, including India. Users must be at least 18 years old to access the feature, which includes an age verification process. To enable it, users can create an invite link within the app to chat with known contacts. The feature is accessible in various countries, including the UK, Germany, France, and others. Users can share any YouTube video, but messages are not end-to-end encrypted and are subject to YouTube's Community Guidelines.

AppWizard

June 12, 2026

YouTube Brings In-App Sharing & Messaging To The U.S.

YouTube is expanding its in-app video sharing and messaging feature to key markets including the U.S., U.K., Brazil, Singapore, and various U.S. territories. Users aged 18 and older can share videos and engage in discussions without leaving the app. The messaging system operates through an invitation process, allowing users to send invite links that expire after seven days. Once connected, users can share long-form videos, Shorts, and live streams, and have the ability to unsend messages, block, or report others. This feature is not available for Brand Accounts and is governed by YouTube’s Community Guidelines, with content not used for ad targeting. The original messaging feature was discontinued in 2019 but was reintroduced as a pilot in Ireland and Poland in November 2025, later expanding to 31 European countries. YouTube plans to further expand this feature, though specific markets and timelines are not yet disclosed.

AppWizard

June 11, 2026

Expanding ways to share on YouTube

YouTube is expanding its in-app video sharing and messaging feature for users aged 18 and older in the U.S. and various international markets. The update allows users to share videos and react in real-time through a new messaging icon in the app. This feature has received positive feedback from regions where it was previously implemented, and YouTube encourages adherence to its Community Guidelines for shared content. The company aims to gather user feedback to refine the platform further.

AppWizard

June 11, 2026

YouTube rolling out new in-app messaging with invite-only chats

YouTube is rolling out a new in-app messaging system that allows users to share videos, Shorts, and livestreams and engage in one-on-one conversations. A messaging icon will appear in the top-right corner of the app, and users can invite others via a URL link valid for seven days, shared through a third-party platform. Recipients must choose to allow messaging or decline. The feature is for users aged 18 and older and adheres to Community Guidelines. Users can unsend messages, block individuals, and report inappropriate content. Initially tested in Europe, it is now available in the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Singapore.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

YouTube finally gives us a way to turn off Shorts, sort of

YouTube has introduced a feature allowing users to set their Shorts usage limit to zero minutes, effectively blocking access to the Shorts tab on the home feed. This setting can be found under Time management in the app's settings. Once the limit is reached, users will receive a notification when attempting to access the Shorts tab. Shorts will still be accessible through subscriptions and shared links. Initially available for parents, this feature is now being rolled out to all users.

AppWizard

March 30, 2026

YouTube adds Android Auto support for background play controls

YouTube has rolled out support for Android Auto, allowing limited interaction with the platform. Users can access basic features like play/pause and skip to the next video through the dashboard media widget, but cannot play videos or use comprehensive media controls. A YouTube Premium subscription is required for background play, with a new Premium Lite plan available starting February 2026 for .99 per month, which will also include background play.

AppWizard

March 11, 2026

YouTube App for TVs Gets 30-Second Unskippable Ads Globally

Google has introduced longer, 30-second unskippable ads on the YouTube app for smart TVs, marking a shift in advertising strategy compared to mobile and laptop platforms. This change is part of an initiative to enhance content delivery on larger screens, utilizing Google AI to alternate between different ad formats. YouTube's growth is projected to lead to revenues reaching billions by 2025, with the living room becoming its fastest-growing venue. Viewers on smart TVs are experiencing longer engagement times, making the "Skip Ad" button less common unless they subscribe to YouTube Premium. YouTube is also exploring subscription models, including a budget-friendly “Premium Lite” tier. However, some markets, like Vietnam, have imposed restrictions on ad lengths. Despite this, YouTube remains the leading streaming platform in the U.S., and the trend towards longer ads is expected to continue.

AppWizard

March 6, 2026

YouTube Expands In-App Direct Messaging Test

YouTube is expanding its revamped direct messaging feature from an initial trial in Poland and Ireland to 31 European countries. This feature, available to signed-in users aged 18 and older, allows users to send direct messages and share videos within the YouTube app. The messaging remains experimental and is focused on one-on-one or small group interactions rather than creating a comprehensive social inbox. Users in the United States and other regions are not part of this trial. The age restriction and invite acceptance requirement aim to enhance safety and privacy. YouTube is implementing moderation tools, spam controls, and reporting mechanisms to ensure user protection. The effectiveness of this feature could influence future developments and potential global rollout.

AppWizard

February 25, 2026

14 essential Android apps I install and update through Obtainium

Obtanium is an app that allows users to install, update, and manage apps from various platforms like F-Droid, GitHub, and the vivo Store. Breezy Weather is a weather app designed for Google Pixel users, providing comprehensive weather details and integrating with the Pixel Launcher. Nobook is a wrapper for Facebook Lite that offers ad-blocking features and customization options for a streamlined experience. Forkyz aggregates crossword puzzles from various sources, providing entertainment for crossword enthusiasts. Suntimes is an older app that tracks daylight hours, useful for planning outdoor activities. Canta helps users remove unwanted system-level applications, allowing for device decluttering. Shizuku grants system-level access to other applications, enhancing their functionality, particularly for power users. Kvaesitso is a launcher with infinite vertical scrolling and extensive widget support, offering customization options. Tubular is a lightweight alternative to the stock YouTube app, blocking sponsor segments and reintegrating the dislike counter. Aurora Store allows users to access Play Store apps without needing a Google account, appealing to privacy-conscious users. ColorBlendr enables users to customize their device's theme colors for a personalized look. Fennec is a privacy-focused browser based on Mozilla Firefox, eliminating trackers and supporting add-ons. SmartSpacer enhances the At A Glance widget by overlaying information from third-party apps. Exodus provides insights into installed apps, revealing trackers and permissions for privacy-conscious users. OSS Document Scanner is an open-source app that combines OCR capabilities with visual editing features for document management.