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Awesome Android Apps You Should Try Out in 2024

Android Apps

In the ever-evolving world of Android, a wealth of Android apps is at your fingertips, aiming to boost your productivity, customize your experience, and secure your device against threats. Whether you’re a seasoned Android user or new to the platform, you will be pleased to know there’s always something new to explore. The video below from HowToMen curates a selection of apps that promise to enhance your Android functionality in 2024.

Track Your Time with Style Time management is crucial, and what better way to stay on top of it than with Yearly Progress Widgets? These handy tools offer you a visual representation of the year, month, or day in percentage form. It’s a novel way to visualize the fleeting nature of time, helping you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

Efficiency at Your Fingertips For those who crave organization, Large Folders come to the rescue. With apps like Folder Widget, you can supersize folders for easier and quicker access to your apps. This is particularly useful for devices that lack native support for this feature, improving your efficiency with a simple tweak.

Volume Control Redefined Say goodbye to the mundane with Volume Control Customization. Now, you can skip tracks or rewind your favorite tunes with long-press actions on the volume keys. It’s a game-changer for music enthusiasts, offering enhanced control without the need for root access.

Habit Tracking for a Better You Building or breaking habits can be a challenge, but Habit Builder is here to assist. This app helps you track your activities, offering insights into your habit patterns. It’s a supportive tool in your journey toward self-improvement.

To-Do Lists at a Glance With Roto, your to-do lists are never out of sight. Pin important items in the notification panel for quick access, ensuring you’re always reminded of your priorities.

Smartwatch Functionality Expanded Smartwatch users, rejoice! Apps like Wear Social and SimpleWear take your device to the next level, enabling features like displaying QR codes for social profiles or controlling phone settings directly from your wrist.

Enhance Your Audio Experience For audiophiles, Rootless James DSP and similar apps offer advanced audio settings to improve music quality on non-rooted devices. Dive into a world of clearer, richer sound with these audio enhancements.

Customizable Android Launchers Explore the realm of customizable Android launchers with options like Kaco. They offer a more intuitive, one-handed friendly user interface, complete with customizable settings and easier widget access.

Cybersecurity for Peace of Mind In the digital age, security is paramount. Bit Defender stands out as a comprehensive cybersecurity solution, offering real-time scanning and data protection to safeguard your device from online threats.

Video Editing Made Simple For the creative souls, Box offers a simplified approach to video editing. By breaking down tasks into individual actions, it avoids the complexity of traditional timelines, making video editing accessible to all.

Wallpaper Automation for Dynamic Themes Dual Wallpaper brings a touch of automation to your device, switching wallpapers based on the system’s dark theme schedule. It’s a seamless way to transition between light and dark themes, adding a dynamic flair to your device.

Simplify Your Downloads Save on Device introduces a download option to the share menu, making it easier to download files from apps or websites that typically restrict this feature.

Multi-Stage Timers for Complex Scheduling Interval Timer Machine is ideal for those who need complex timers with multiple stages, whether for exercise routines or daily scheduling. It’s a versatile tool that adapts to your needs.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Device For the tech enthusiasts with rooted devices, GMS Flags opens up a world of possibilities. Access unreleased or blocked features in Google apps and explore the benefits of rooting.

Exploring these Android apps offers a blend of productivity boosts, customization options, and security enhancements for your Android device in 2024. Each app brings something unique to the table, catering to a wide range of needs and preferences. Dive into the Android app ecosystem and discover how these tools can elevate your mobile experience.

Source & Image Credit: HowToMen

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How to Delete Pre-Installed Android Apps from Your Smartphone

Android Apps

Android smartphones frequently arrive equipped with an assortment of built-in Android apps, widely referred to as bloatware. This term encompasses a variety of software that, while intended to offer additional features and functionality out of the box, can inadvertently consume precious storage space on your device, deplete the battery at a faster rate, and in certain instances, operate in the background unbeknownst to the user. Although it’s not always possible to entirely eliminate every pre-installed application due to restrictions placed by the manufacturer or carrier, there are several strategies available to streamline your device’s app ecosystem.

These methods can help you to disable or hide the applications that you find unnecessary or seldom use, thereby reclaiming some of that valuable storage space and potentially improving your device’s overall performance and battery life.

Understanding Pre-installed Apps

Before we dive into the deletion process, let’s clarify the different kinds of pre-installed apps:

  • System Apps: These apps are integral to the core functionality of your Android operating system. They include apps like your phone dialer, settings, and messaging.
  • Completely removing these is generally not advisable as it can disrupt your phone’s operation.
  • Carrier/Manufacturer Apps: Phone carriers and manufacturers often add their own suite of apps.
  • These might include news apps, carrier-specific utilities, or branded entertainment services.

Methods for Dealing with Pre-Installed Apps

Here are the main ways to handle those pesky pre-installed apps:

1. Uninstalling

Through Settings:

    1. Go to your phone’s Settings app.
    2. Tap on Apps & notifications (or a similar option like Apps).
    3. Locate the app you want to remove.
    4. Tap on Uninstall. If this option is greyed out, the app is likely a system app and can’t be fully uninstalled. Proceed to the ‘Disabling’ method below.

Via Google Play Store:

  1. Open the Google Play Store.
  2. Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
  3. Go to Manage apps & device.
  4. Select the Manage tab.
  5. Find the app you wish to remove.
  6. Tap Uninstall.

2. Disabling

If an app cannot be uninstalled, disabling is often the best option:

  1. Follow the same steps as for “Uninstalling Through Settings.”
  2. Instead of “Uninstall,” you should see a Disable button.
  3. Tap Disable and confirm the action.

Disabling an app stops it from running in the background, prevents it from using data, and hides it from your app drawer.

3. Advanced Removal (Rooting Required)

Important: Rooting your Android phone involves modifying core system files and usually voids the warranty.

Proceed with caution and only if you’re comfortable with the potential risks.

Rooting grants you greater control over your device, including the ability to permanently remove system apps. However, it’s crucial to research thoroughly and ensure you understand the process before attempting this.

Additional Tips

  • Hidden Bloatware: Some manufacturers make it less obvious what is pre-installed.
  • Always check your full app list carefully.
  • App Updates: Uninstalling may only revert a pre-installed app to its original factory version. To prevent it from updating again, you may need to disable automatic updates in the Google Play Store settings.

A Cleaner and Faster Android Experience

By meticulously examining and selectively removing or disabling those pre-installed applications that are not essential to your daily use, you can reclaim significant amounts of storage space that were previously occupied. This process not only frees up space on your Android device but could also lead to a noticeable enhancement in your phone’s performance. Applications running in the background can slow down your device and affect its efficiency; by eliminating or disabling these, you reduce the number of active processes, which can help your phone operate more smoothly. Additionally, streamlining the number of applications on your device contributes to a more organized and less cluttered Android experience, allowing you to focus on the apps that truly matter to you. This deliberate approach to managing pre-installed software ensures that your device remains optimized for your specific needs and preferences, resulting in a more personalized and efficient user experience.

Image Credit: Daniel Romero

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Honor Pad 9 12.1 inch Android tablet launched

Honor Pad 9

Honor has launched a new Android tablet, the Honor Pad 9, and the device comes with a 12.1-inch display that features a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and the display comes with a 120Hz refresh rate.

This new Android tablet is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 mobile processor and it features 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, there is also an Honor RAM Turbo feature which expands the RAM to 16GB using the storage.

Upholding its dedication to human-centric technology, the HONOR Pad 9 incorporates industry-leading eye comfort features such as Dynamic Dimming that simulates ciliary muscle activity and reduce eye fatigue, ensuring optimal comfort for the human eye. It also comes with HONOR’s Circadian Night Display technology, automatically adjusting the display into warmer colors to reduce the amount of blue light, promoting the secretion of melatonin and ultimately enhancing users’ sleep quality. Earned both TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light (Hardware Solution) Certification and TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free Certification, the HONOR Pad 9 provides a comfortable viewing experience, making it the ideal choice for the tech-savvy generation.

The Honor Pad 9 comes with a 8300 mAh battery and the device comes with Android 13 and MagicOS 7.2 and the device is going on sale in the UK from the 25th of February for £299.99 or £349.99 with a keyboard option, you can find out more details at the link below.

Source Honor

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Google Gemini on Android in Action (Video)

Google Gemini

In the rapidly evolving world of digital assistants, Google has taken a significant leap forward with the introduction of Gemini, a sophisticated platform designed to elevate the user experience to new heights. This article delves into the essence of Google Gemini, previously known to many as Google Assistant with Bard, showcasing its integration capabilities, installation nuances, and a plethora of functionalities that span both personal and professional domains. If you’re keen on discovering how Gemini can transform your interaction with technology watch the video below from In Depth Tech Reviews.

Getting to Know Gemini

At its core, Google Gemini is an advanced digital assistant tailored for both Android and iOS users, with a special focus on Android devices in this context. The platform has been engineered to seamlessly integrate with your device, providing a comprehensive guide for installation outside the U.S., where it first made its mark. For Android enthusiasts, getting Gemini up and running involves downloading an APK from APK Mirror, ensuring that your device runs on Android 12 or later and is equipped with at least 4GB of RAM.

Installation and Compatibility

You will be pleased to know that the installation process is straightforward, especially for Android users. Gemini stands out by replacing the traditional Google Assistant on Pixel phones, introducing a suite of innovative features that include voice and keyboard inputs, the ability to attach photos to commands, and a unique feature for attaching screenshots within apps to address specific queries.

Exploring Gemini’s Capabilities

Gemini’s functional overview is nothing short of impressive. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Travel Assistance: Planning your next trip? Gemini offers detailed information on flights, hotels, and activities, enhancing your travel experience with options for feedback, information validation, and sharing.
  • Creative Photo Generation: Whether for presentations or creative endeavors, Gemini’s image generation capabilities are designed to spark your imagination.
  • Email and Work Management: Streamline your email tasks with Gemini’s efficient categorization and summarization features, including the ability to create templates for cover letters or compose emails from scratch.
  • Information at Your Fingertips: From identifying locations in photos to summarizing web articles and generating code snippets, Gemini is your go-to for queries across a broad spectrum.
  • Basic Assistant Functions: Gemini doesn’t skimp on the basics either, performing all the traditional Google Assistant tasks like setting timers, managing smart devices, and navigation with ease.

Understanding Its Limitations

While Gemini represents a significant advancement in digital assistant technology, it’s important to acknowledge some of its limitations. These include the absence of continued conversation support, challenges in identifying clothing in images, and occasional inaccuracies in product identification compared to Google Lens. However, these minor setbacks do not overshadow the immense value Gemini brings to the table.

Gemini’s integration into Android and iOS platforms, coupled with its customizable features and ability to share information, make it an indispensable tool for both personal and professional use. The video guide provides a comprehensive overview of Gemini’s capabilities, setup process, and practical applications, showcasing its potential to enhance productivity and simplify a wide range of tasks.

Whether you’re looking to manage your emails more efficiently, need assistance with your travel plans, or are in search of a creative spark for your next project, Google Gemini offers a well-rounded suite of features to meet your needs. Its advanced functionalities and seamless integration with Android devices underscore Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience through innovation.

As technology continues to advance, tools like Gemini are pivotal in shaping the future of digital interaction. By embracing these advancements, users can unlock a new realm of possibilities, making everyday tasks more manageable and exploring new horizons with ease.

Source & Image Credit: In Depth Tech Reviews.

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How to run automated AI assistants on your Android phone

Android AI assistants with visual perception

Thanks to the power of Android phones it’s now possible to run and install artificial intelligent (AI)  assistants on your mobile device enabling you to interact with a wide variety of different custom-built AI agents depending on your needs. Imagine a world where your mobile phone understands you so well that it can carry out tasks on its own, without you having to navigate through apps or type out instructions. This isn’t a scene from a futuristic film; it’s a reality that’s unfolding right now thanks to the introduction of MobileAgent.

This new autonomous AI agent is transforming the way we interact with our mobile devices, making our digital lives more efficient and convenient. MobileAgent is built on the cutting-edge GPT-4 Vision technology, which gives it an extraordinary ability to perceive visuals. This means it can independently navigate and perform tasks in various applications, such as web browsers and music streaming services, without needing any manual adjustments to the system. It’s like having a personal assistant that can see your screen and understand what to do next.

At the heart of MobileAgent’s capabilities are its sophisticated text and icon detection modules. These modules allow the AI to pinpoint and carry out operations within the mobile environment accurately. This eliminates the need for the AI to learn or explore beforehand; it can simply understand and act on instructions, streamlining task execution.

Setup automated AI assistants on your Android phone

For those using Android devices, setting up MobileAgent is a breeze with the Android Debug Bridge. This tool enables smooth communication between your device and the AI agent. However, it’s important to note that if you’re an iOS user with a standard device, you might face some restrictions that could affect the agent’s performance due to Apple’s platform policies.

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of automating your workflows to improve productivity and take those annoying tasks out of your daily routine.

The integration of MobileAgent’s framework and operation localization modules showcases the agent’s intricate design. These components ensure that the AI can navigate the complex ecosystem of a mobile device with ease. This not only makes life easier for users but also improves the efficiency of digital interactions by integrating AI seamlessly into everyday tasks.

MobileAgent is not just a static tool; it’s set to evolve even further. Imagine an AI that remembers your preferences and habits, offering a tailored experience by performing tasks that are relevant to you. This is the potential future of MobileAgent, with the addition of semantic memory.

Autonomous Multi-Modal Mobile Device Agent with Visual Perception

For those who are deeply interested in the technical details and potential of MobileAgent, there’s a research paper available that dives into the agent’s functionalities and the transformative impact it could have. This paper is a treasure trove of information for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of this technology.

“Mobile device agent based on Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLM) is becoming a popular application. In this paper, we introduce Mobile-Agent, an autonomous multi-modal mobile device agent. Mobile-Agent first leverages visual perception tools to accurately identify and locate both the visual and textual elements within the app’s front-end interface. Based on the perceived vision context, it then autonomously plans and decomposes the complex operation task, and navigates the mobile Apps through operations step by step.

Different from previous solutions that rely on XML files of Apps or mobile system metadata, Mobile-Agent allows for greater adaptability across diverse mobile operating environments in a vision-centric way, thereby eliminating the necessity for system-specific customizations. To assess the performance of Mobile-Agent, we introduced Mobile-Eval, a benchmark for evaluating mobile device operations.

Based on Mobile-Eval, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Mobile-Agent. The experimental results indicate that Mobile-Agent achieved remarkable accuracy and completion rates. Even with challenging instructions, such as multi-app operations, Mobile-Agent can still complete the requirements.”

Moreover, there’s a vibrant Patreon community for those who are passionate about AI and mobile technology. This community supports the development of MobileAgent and acts as a platform for collaboration, sharing knowledge, and networking with others who are leading the way in AI and mobile tech.

MobileAgent represents a significant step forward in the automation of mobile devices. Its ability to manage tasks autonomously across a variety of applications is a testament to the progress in AI and machine learning. As we continue to explore the capabilities of our mobile devices, MobileAgent is redefining what it means to be efficient and connected in the digital world. Code and model will is open-source on Github.

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20+ Free AI tools and phone apps for Android and iOS

20+ Phone apps and AI tools that are completely free

Matt Wolfe  has put together a list of over 20 phone applications that feature artificial intelligence (AI) and the best thing is that all the AI tools are completely free to use. Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a key player in enhancing our daily lives. Now, this cutting-edge technology is readily accessible through a variety of free mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices. These apps are not just for tech enthusiasts; they’re for anyone looking to make their life easier, more productive, and more creative. From improving communication to streamlining your workflow, there’s an AI app that can help you with your tasks.

Imagine having a conversation with an AI chatbot that responds with the intelligence and warmth of a human. Apps like Chat GPT and Pi chatbot offer this experience, making it feel like you’re talking to a friend who can also search the web for information during your conversation. This can be incredibly useful for those who need quick answers without the hassle of typing out search queries.

Free AI Phone apps

For those who spend a lot of time researching, AI can be a game-changer. An app called Perplexity, for example, goes beyond just finding information—it suggests related topics, which can help you dive deeper into your research without getting lost in a sea of irrelevant data.

Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of free AI tools :

Have you ever wanted to interact with your favorite fictional characters? Now you can. Character AI allows you to have conversations with characters as if they were real, providing a unique form of entertainment and engagement. Students and learners can also benefit from AI apps. Socratic by Google uses photo recognition to help solve problems, while AI Writer offers templates to help with writing tasks. These tools can save time and help users better understand complex subjects.

Language learning is another area where AI can make a significant impact. Elsa Speak, for instance, offers daily English lessons that focus on pronunciation, helping users communicate more effectively. Professionals who attend a lot of meetings might find Otter to be a lifesaver. This app records meetings, transcribes them, and provides summaries. It even allows users to ask questions about the recorded content, ensuring nothing important is missed.

For the creatively inclined, there are AI tools and apps that can transform the way you create art and videos. Dream, Starry AI, Photoleap, Videoleap, and Motionleap use AI to produce stunning art, video effects, and animations that can take your projects to the next level. If you enjoy photography, apps like Pixa Motion and Colourpop can add life to your images by animating them or adding color to black and white photos. This can make your visual content stand out and capture the attention of your audience.

Podcasters and music enthusiasts will appreciate Dolby On, which improves audio recordings by enhancing clarity. Gradient Music, on the other hand, creates personalized music playlists using AI, tailoring the listening experience to your tastes. For those interested in 3D modeling, Luma uses neural radiance fields (Nerfs) to create 3D models from photographs, adding a new dimension to your visual presentations.

Lastly, organizing information can be a daunting task, but AI can help with that too. Arc Search brings together information from various sources onto a single page, while My Mind offers a content archiving system that uses AI to generate summaries and tags, making it easier to find information later.

While these AI tools  are free to use, some offer optional paid upgrades for those who want even more features. However, the core functions of these apps are available at no cost, allowing you to take advantage of AI without spending a dime. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see new updates and versions of these apps that will further enhance our mobile experience.

These 20+ artificial intelligence enabled mobile apps and AI tools provide you with a range of tools to manage your daily activities, learn new things, express your creativity and improve your productivity. By harnessing the potential of AI, you can make the most of your mobile device and stay ahead in the digital world. Whether you’re a student, professional, artist, or just someone who loves technology, these AI apps can help you achieve more with less effort. So why not explore what AI has to offer and see how it can transform your mobile experience? We highly recommend checking out all videos from AI enthusiast Matt Wolfe.

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Android Auto gets new AI features

Android Auto

Google has announced that it is bringing some new AI features to Android Auto, these new features are designed to reduce distractions and keep you focused on driving, the video below gives us a look at some of the new features.

These new features will include summaries of messages you have received and also chats and more, Android Auto will then use AI to suggest repliues for you and you will be able to reply without having to touch your device.

We’re making it easier for you to communicate while on the road with Android Auto. Using the power of AI, Android Auto will automatically summarize long texts or busy group chats while you’re driving, so you can keep in touch while staying focused on the road. Android Auto will also suggest relevant replies and actions that you can take without touching your phone. So, if you need to get to that lunch spot that your friend shared, you can simply tap once to navigate to the location shared, send your estimated time of arrival, or even call your friend.

These new features were announced along with the new AI features for the Samsung Galaxy S24 that Samsung announced last week, it has teamed with with Google on AI for its device and these features will also be available on other devices.

Source & Image Credit:  Google

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10 Awesome Android Apps to Customize Your Android Phone

Android Apps

Are you looking to spruce up your Android experience? Good news! You’re about to discover ten incredible applications that will transform your Android device into a hub of customization and efficiency. Whether you’re after a home screen makeover or utility enhancements, these apps promise to elevate both the aesthetics and functionality of your device. The video below from Mr Android gives us a look at these 10 awesome apps. Let’s dive into the world of Android customization with these handpicked apps:

  1. Smart Dock: Simplify your life with Smart Dock. This app introduces a handy dock at the bottom of your screen, ensuring your most-used apps are always a tap away. But that’s not all – you have the freedom to personalize the dock with your choice of colors, icon packs, and even app opening animations.
  2. Heroic Launcher: For the superhero fans, Heroic Launcher is a dream come true. It comes loaded with a plethora of superhero-themed setups. Not only is it a breeze to use, but it also offers an array of free themes, wallpapers, icon packs, fonts, and widgets. Get ready to bring your favorite heroes to your home screen!
  3. Moonlight Wallpapers: If minimal and clean designs are your things, Moonlight Wallpapers has got your back. This AI-based app boasts a selection of handcrafted wallpapers across various categories, ensuring your device always sports a sophisticated look.
  4. I Widgets: Craving some iOS flair on your Android? I Widgets offers iOS 17 inspired widgets, bringing the sleekness of Apple’s interface to your Android home screen. Choose from clocks, weather, calendars, and even control panel widgets.
  5. Folder Widget: Say goodbye to cluttered screens with Folder Widget. This app allows you to create large, customizable folders for quick access to your apps. Tailor everything from the layout to the folder’s color, transparency, and placement.
  6. Control Eyland: Make the most of your phone’s notch with Control Eyland. This innovative app adds shortcuts right at the notch, allowing you to quickly access functions like taking screenshots, turning on the flashlight, or launching the camera.
  7. Get Current Wallpaper: Ever wanted to save your current home or lock screen wallpaper? Get Current Wallpaper does just that, letting you save your favorite backgrounds directly to your gallery without compromising on quality.
  8. Music 7 Pro: For the music enthusiasts, Music 7 Pro is a must-have. This offline music player not only allows customization of its interface but also comes with features like theme support, lyrics display, playback speed control, and even changing tracks by shaking your phone!
  9. Weather Today: Stay updated with the latest weather conditions with Weather Today. This app features a minimalistic UI with material design, providing real-time weather data, forecasts, severe weather alerts, and handy widgets.
  10. Keys Cafe: Transform your typing experience with Keys Cafe. Customize your keyboard with unique themes, effects, layouts, functional buttons, and even wallpapers. It’s a fun and personalized way to type on your Android device.

There you have it, ten incredible apps to personalize and enhance your Android experience. Each app offers its unique features, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a customization enthusiast or just looking for ways to improve your device’s functionality, these apps are sure to add a touch of personal flair to your daily digital interactions.

Remember, the key to a great customization experience is exploring and experimenting with what these apps offer. So, dive in, try them out, and see how they can transform your Android device into a more personal, efficient, and visually appealing companion.

Source & Image Credit Mr Android

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How to turn off Automatic Updates on Android Phones

Automatic Updates on Android Phones

This guide is designed to walk you through the process of disabling automatic updates for both the operating system (OS) and individual apps on your Android phone. It’s a well-known fact that Android devices routinely receive automatic updates. These updates are integral for maintaining the security and stability of both your phone’s operating system and the apps you use daily.

They ensure that you have the latest features and that any known bugs or vulnerabilities are promptly addressed. However, there are instances when having total control over these updates is necessary. You might prefer to manage updates manually to avoid unexpected data usage, to maintain a stable version of an app you rely on, or simply to have a better handle on what changes are being made to your device. Whatever your reason, understanding how to take charge of these updates can be a crucial aspect of managing your Android device effectively.

Disabling Android OS Updates:

  1. Open Settings: Locate and tap the gear icon on your home screen or app drawer.
  2. Navigate to Software Update: The location might vary slightly depending on your phone model. Look for options like “System,” “About Phone,” or “Software Update.”
  3. Access Advanced Settings: Tap the three dots or a cog icon usually located in the top right corner.
  4. Turn Off Auto Downloads: Select “Auto Download & Install” and choose “Do Not Allow.” This prevents automatic downloads and installations of OS updates.
  5. Optional: Disable Wi-Fi Downloading: To further control updates, uncheck “Download over Wi-Fi only” if present. This ensures updates won’t automatically download even when connected to Wi-Fi.

Disabling App Updates in Google Play Store:

  1. Launch Google Play Store: Open the Play Store app.
  2. Tap your Profile Picture: Look for the icon representing your account in the top right corner.
  3. Open Settings: Select “Settings” from the drop-down menu.
  4. Choose Auto-update Apps: Locate and tap this option under “General.”
  5. Select Update Preference: Choose “Don’t auto-update apps” to disable automatic updates for all apps.
  6. Optional: Manage Individual App Updates: For more granular control, tap “Manage apps & device” in Settings. Select “Manage,” then choose the app you want to control. Tap the three dots in the top right corner and uncheck “Enable auto-update.”

Important Considerations:

  • Disabling automatic updates for the OS can leave your phone vulnerable to security exploits and bugs. It’s recommended to update manually at regular intervals.
  • Individual app updates might be crucial for bug fixes and improved functionality. Consider manually updating important apps regularly.
  • Some phone manufacturers or carriers might have slightly different settings menus. Refer to your device manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.

Bonus Tips:

  • You can schedule Wi-Fi updates for the OS by tapping “Advanced Settings” in Software Update and choosing “Schedule system update.
  • Monitoring data usage during app updates can be helpful. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile data, and track data usage by individual apps.
  • Be cautious when downloading and installing APKs from third-party sources. Stick to the official Google Play Store for secure app updates.

By following this guide and understanding the considerations, by doing so, you are taking a proactive step towards maintaining complete control over your device’s software environment. It’s important to recognize that responsible management of these updates is a balancing act. On one hand, it’s about ensuring the security of your device – keeping it safeguarded against potential threats that are often addressed in these updates. On the other hand, it’s about tailoring your user experience to suit your personal or professional needs, which might mean delaying or selectively choosing when to update.

This process involves more than just flipping a switch. It requires a thoughtful approach where you weigh the benefits of immediate updates against the need for stability or consistency in your device’s performance. It’s about understanding the implications of each update, whether it’s a minor tweak in an app or a significant overhaul of the operating system. By mastering this control, you not only enhance your device’s functionality but also deepen your connection and understanding of the technology in your hands.

So, as you follow through with the steps laid out in this guide, keep in mind that you are not just adjusting settings, but are also crafting a customized, secure, and stable mobile experience that aligns with your individual needs and usage patterns.

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How to Set Up Your New Android Phone or Tablet

Android Phone or Tablet

This guide is designed to show you how to set up your new Android Phone or Android tablet. Unboxing your shiny new Android phone or tablet is an exciting moment, marking the beginning of a journey filled with endless possibilities. However, before immersing yourself in the vast world of Android apps and features, it’s crucial to complete the initial setup process. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth transition into the Android ecosystem.

Getting Started: Powering On and Connecting to Wi-Fi

Power On: The first step is to turn on your new device. Simply press and hold the power button located on the side or top of the phone or tablet. Once the device powers on, you’ll be greeted with a welcome screen.

Connect to Wi-Fi: Connecting to a Wi-Fi network is essential for various aspects of Android setup, including downloading apps and accessing online services. Select the desired Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password if prompted.

Personalizing Your Device: Setting Language and Themes

Choose Your Language: Select the language you prefer from the list of available options. This determines the language used for the user interface, menus, and other text-based elements.

Personalize Your Theme: Android offers a variety of themes to customize the look and feel of your device. Explore the available themes and choose one that aligns with your personal preference.

Google Account Sign-in: Unlocking the Power of Google Services

Google Account Sign-in: To fully utilize the capabilities of your Android phone or tablet, you’ll need to sign in with a Google account. This will allow you to access Google services like Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Play Store.

Data Transfer Options: If you’re switching from an iOS device or another Android device, you’ll be presented with options to transfer data, such as contacts, photos, and messages. Follow the on-screen instructions to seamlessly move your data to your new device.

Setting Up Biometric Authentication: Enhancing Security

Fingerprint Scanner: Many Android devices come equipped with fingerprint scanners for convenient and secure unlocking. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your fingerprint and enable it as a security option.

Face Unlock: Some Android devices also support face unlock, allowing you to unlock your phone by simply looking at it. If your device has this feature, follow the on-screen instructions to set it up.

Privacy and Security: Protecting Your Data

Location Access: Android devices can access your location to provide relevant information and services. However, you can control which apps can access your location and for what purposes. Go to Settings > Privacy > Location to manage location permissions.

App Permissions: Apps request various permissions to function properly. Carefully review app permissions before granting them, especially sensitive permissions like access to your contacts or microphone.

Additional Setup Steps: Fine-tuning Your Android Experience

Notifications: Android allows you to customize how notifications are displayed and managed. Go to Settings > Notifications to adjust notification settings for individual apps or change the overall notification behavior.

Gesture Controls: Android offers a variety of gesture controls to enhance navigation. Explore the available gestures and enable the ones you prefer in Settings > System > Gestures.

Summary:

Congratulations on successfully setting up your new Android phone or tablet! Now, it’s time to explore the vast world of Android apps, games, and services. Download your favorite apps, customize your home screen, and immerse yourself in the endless possibilities that Android offers. Remember, with a little exploration and personalization, your Android device can become an indispensable part of your daily life.

Here are some more Android articles you may find helpful:

Image Credit: Onur Binay

Filed Under: Android News, Guides, Mobile Phone News, Tablet News





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