Chandraveer Mathur

1 week ago | xda-developers.com | Chandraveer Mathur

All computer users are familiar with the standard keyboard layout – that arrangement where the keys in each row are slightly offset from the ones above and below. This is known as a staggered arrangement, with the common QWERTY layout being its most famous ambassador. This design, where keys form a nonlinear pattern, has its roots stretching back to 1868, when inventors Sholes, Glidden, and Soule adapted a Hughes telegraph machine to create their early typewriter.

2 weeks ago | androidpolice.com | Chandraveer Mathur

Pixel phones could receive native OS-level flashlight brightness adjustment in the upcoming Android 16 QPR 1 update. The update will include a Flashlight Strength slider accessible from Quick Settings. Third-party flashlight apps with brightness adjustment are already available, thanks to API support since Android 13. Google's flagship Pixel phones haven't always demonstrated class-leading hardware performance that would rival some of our other favorite Android devices.

2 weeks ago | androidpolice.com | Chandraveer Mathur

Google Play Store increased the max app price to $5,000. A new payment option for users in the US allows users to request someone else to pay for app/in-app purchases. The purchase link must be approved within 24 hours, and the potential for misuse requires additional safeguards. Google's latest event, the annual conference where app and OS developers get a behind-the-scenes look at Android, is currently underway.

2 weeks ago | androidpolice.com | Chandraveer Mathur

Spotify is enhancing user experience with social features like Jams for shared playlists. Spotify Jams will soon be available in cars with Google built-in for a seamless transition. Media apps like Spotify are evolving with new interactive templates for a better user experience. Few music apps on Android have aced the content discovery algorithm like Spotify has, but the app's developers aren't resting on their laurels.

2 weeks ago | androidpolice.com | Chandraveer Mathur

Android 16 resembles Android 12 in that its loaded with visual changes, one of which is resizable Quick Settings toggles. When you make toggles smaller, the label for it disappears, but shows up in the corner of the screen when you tap the toggle. However, tapping the toggle also triggers the corresponding action, which can be a major annoyance. Google's operating system for smartphones is feeling like all over again, with the latest version currently in beta — Android 16.