ProSpy and ToSpy malware campaigns spoof Signal and ToTok to infect Android users
Malware exfiltrates SMS, contacts, files, and disguises itself as Google Play Services
Apps spread via third-party stores; users urged to stick to official app sources
Android users in the United Arab Emirates and the wider region are being targeted by two malicious campaigns which spoof known chat apps, Signal and ToTok, to distribute malware.
Security researchers at ESET said they started tracking the ProSpy and ToSpy campaigns in June 2025, but believe they could have started back in 2024.
The attackers created fake, non-existent Signal Encryption Plugins, and a Pro version of the ToTok app, to trick users into downloading and running the malware. Those that don’t spot the trick will end up losing sensitive information, since the campaign leverages on data exfiltration.
How to stay safe
Once installed, the malware requests access to SMS messages, files, and contacts lists, which it then exfiltrates, together with device information, backup files, and a list of other installed apps.
The Signal Encryption Plugin also renames itself to ‘Play Services’ upon installation, and changes its icon, to avoid being detected and removed. Also, tapping the icon brings up the info screen of a legitimate Google Play Service app.
Since these apps are being distributed through third-party app stores and custom websites, the best way to stay safe is to only download apps from reputable sources such as the official Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Signal is a popular and legitimate privacy-first chat application with roughly 70 million users worldwide. ToTok, on the other hand, has a more controversial history. The app was developed by a UAE company called G42, back in 2019. It offered free voice and video calls, positioning itself as an alternative to services like WhatsApp and Skype, which were restricted in the UAE.
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However, ToTok was later removed from the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store after investigations suggested it was being used as a surveillance tool by the UAE government, but it remains popular in the region.
Klopatra malware steals banking and crypto data, even when screen is off
Distributed via fake IPTV+VPN app, requests Accessibility permissions for full device control
Uses Virbox, anti-debugging, and encryption to evade detection and analysis
Cybersecurity researchers Cleafy have discovered a new, powerful Android trojan capable of stealing money from bank apps, stealing crypto from hot wallets, and even using the device while the screen is off.
Klopatra, an Android malware apparently built by a Turkish threat actor, does not resemble anything that’s already out there, meaning the tool was likely built from scratch. It was first spotted in March 2025, and since then has experienced 40 iterations, meaning the group is actively working on and developing the malware.
Klopatra is being distributed through standalone, malicious pages, rather than Google’s Play Store. It uses a dropper called Modpro IP TV + VPN, which pretends to be an IPTV and VPN app. Once the dropper is installed, it deploys Klopatra which, as usual for malicious apps, requests Accessibility Services permissions.
Thousands of victims
These permissions allow hackers to simulate taps, read screen content, steal credentials, and control apps silently – among other things.
Besides stealing people’s money, data, and fiddling around the phone, Klopatra also has a list of hardcoded Android antivirus names, which it then cross-references with the device and attempts to disable.
The malware also goes an extra mile to avoid being detected and analyzed.
It uses Virbox, a legitimate software protection and licensing platform, that defends apps against privacy, reverse engineering, and unauthorized use.
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In this case, Virbox was used to prevent cybersecurity researchers from reverse-engineering and analyzing the malware. Furthermore, it uses native libraries to bring its Java and Kotlin use to a minimum, and recently started using NP Manager string encryption.
The researchers said the malware comes with multiple anti-debugging mechanisms, runtime integrity checks, and the ability to detect when it’s running in an emulator, thus preventing researchers from dissecting it.
So far, at least 3,000 devices across Europe are infected, Cleafy said.
Android users are stuck in what might be Instagram’s worst performance crisis in recent months. The app barely stays open long enough to load the home feed before force-closing, leaving thousands unable to access their accounts.
Just yesterday, we reported that Instagram beta users were dealing with crashes when watching Reels. That problem now looks minor compared to what’s happening today. The current wave of crashes kicks in almost immediately after launch, sometimes within a single second of opening the app. After repeated failures, users eventually see a “Something went wrong with Instagram” error message that offers little help.
The issue appears concentrated on Android devices, though the exact version causing problems remains unclear. One Reddit user running version 15 mentioned their update from a few days ago triggered the instant crashes.
Another detail catching attention: some users report seeing their entire photo grid vanish from the mobile app, displaying a “no posts yet” message even though everything remains visible on the web version. That glitch seems to occur during the brief window before the app crashes completely.
Multiple reinstalls aren’t fixing anything. Users report trying the standard troubleshooting steps (clearing cache, rebooting phones, uninstalling and reinstalling up to three times) without success. Some discovered they can’t disable the Early Access toggle in settings because attempting to do so throws an error, which might be connected to the crashes.
Instagram hasn’t issued an official response yet, though the volume of reports makes this impossible to ignore. Whatever update Meta pushed recently clearly broke something fundamental in the Android app’s stability.
For those desperate to access Instagram right now, installing an older APK file might provide temporary relief until Meta pushes out a proper fix. It’s not ideal, but it beats staring at a crash screen every five seconds.
Amazon announced its new Fire TV Stick 4K Select, a streaming dongle that sports its new in-house VegaOS, which replaces Android.
The 4K Select stick focuses on 4K TVs with “vibrant quality,” as well as a faster, lighter weight software for opening apps and streaming content.
Amazon also announced two new Omni QLED TVs, a new 2-Series model, and a new 4-Series model, all of which can be pre-ordered today (Sep 30), including the 4K Select.
Amazon’s major announcement today (Sep 30) is all about moving its Fire TV product series into the next new thing, and that “new thing” is VegaOS.
Earlier this morning, Amazon announced via a press release that it’s launching a new Fire TV lineup—new Stick and TVs—as well as some upgraded Alexa Plus capabilities. Getting you started in all of this is Amazon’s new Fire TV Stick 4K Select. Its specifications state the new stick is focusing on 4K televisions with “vibrant quality” and HDR10 Plus support. Amazon states apps on the stick launch fast, but that performance boost reportedly comes from its new custom software, VegaOS.
VegaOS enters the Fire TV Stick 4K Select as the substitute for Android, as Amazon shifts away from it. This new OS is reportedly “responsive and highly efficient,” capable of streaming everything you’d want and supporting Xbox Gaming, Luna, and Alex Plus.
(Image credit: Amazon)
A post by AFTVNews went into a little more detail about the newest stick, stating that VegaOS makes the 4K Select much more lightweight (via 9to5Google). The 4K Select only has 1GB of RAM and reportedly “doesn’t have as much memory overhead” like the old Android-based stick.
The new Fire TV Stick 4K Select is now available for pre-order on Amazon, starting at $39.99.
Your new favorite spot in the house
(Image credit: Amazon)
Joining the 4K Select stick are two new Fire TV launches from Amazon: the Omni QLED Series and the 2-Series & 4-Series.
Starting with the former, the Omni QLED series is available in 50″ and 75″ options and are reportedly 60% brighter than the brand’s previous products. Lighter and darker tones should appear more vibrant and bold when watching your favorite shows and movies. Dolby Vision and HDR10 Plus Adaptive Technology are included in these two QLED series TV sizes, alongside a processor that’s 40% faster.
Get the latest news from Android Central, your trusted companion in the world of Android
There are some smarts with this Omni QLED series, as Amazon states the TV can “adjust its colors” based on your lighting situation. Additionally, it can turn on when you enter the room (Omnisense Tech), and Alexa Plus is right there in the TV, ready for you to speak.
The Omni QLED series starts at $479.99.
For the 2-Series and 4-Series (32″ and 55″), Amazon says the former rocks HD quality, leaving 4K to the latter. Both models are a little faster than before, with the same Omnisense that you’d find on the Omni QLED series. These TVs begin at $159.99 for the 2-series, while the 4-series starts at $329.99.
Alexa Plus is here to stay
(Image credit: Amazon)
We first heard about Alexa Plus earlier this year, as Amazon was finally taking its AI a little more seriously, bringing about some necessary updates. Alexa Plus is featured across every new TV and the 4K Select stick announced by Amazon today. It states users can converse with the AI to get you into your content on Prime Video, Netflix, HBO Max, and more services.
However, Alexa Plus can do a little more, as users can ask the AI about specific actors seen in their show or movie, or learn about where the content was filmed. When it comes to gameday, Alexa Plus can give you score updates, player stats, and more across platforms that typically stream sports games. Amazon stresses the “natural” part of Alexa Plus, stating users can speak normally to the AI and find their personalized results rather quickly.
Other features on its newest TVs include a “pick up where you left off” row for content, more awareness about live sports/TV, a channel guide, and a wishlist for entertainment.
Calling all Android and iOS aficionados! This is your golden opportunity to score some premium apps at absolutely no cost. Act fast—these incredible deals won’t last forever, so make sure to take advantage of them before these apps revert to their usual prices.
The Google Play Store and the Apple App Store are teeming with an extensive array of applications designed to meet your every need. While plenty of options are available for free, some do come with a price. However, it’s worth noting that there are occasional promotional events that allow you to download certain paid apps for free. We’ve curated an enticing selection of the most engaging apps currently up for grabs at no charge at all. Don’t miss out before it is too late!
Our tip: If you are interested in an app, install it – even if you don’t need it straight away. This will mark it as “purchased” and add it to your app library. You can then remove the app directly from your phone and reinstall it for free whenever you need it.
Android Apps and Games Available for Free–Limited Time Offer
Top Free Android Apps for Productivity and Lifestyle
Business Card Maker ($4.99): I know, how many of us use business cards these days but heck, if you actually need to design one, here’s an app for that!
Stick TV Remote Control Pro ($2.99): Your phone can do more than just make phone calls, you know. It can be a TV remote!
Cutout Premium ($2.49): Create photos for professional use by removing the background with this app.
Sound Meter and Noise Detector ($2.99): Want to measure how much noise is coming into your room? Use this app to find out!
Bright LED Flashlight Pro ($2.99): Kind of redundant as all phones have a flashlight app these days, but hey, if you want to be different…
Free Android Games
Live or Die 1 ($0.99): It looks like all hope is lost with the zombie apocalypse as you attempt to survive using your wits.
Defenchick Tower Defense ($0.49): Alien slugs are threatening to overwhelm you, as you do your best to keep them at bay in this fun tower defense title.
EHW Premium Stick & Fight ($0.49): A real-time strategy game, online side-scroller defense that combines RPG elements as you amass a powerful army to slaughter your enemies.
The Lonely Hacker ($2.99): A hacking simulation game that pits your brain power to overcome digital defenses.
Mystery of Blackthorn Castle ($2.99): A picture adventure puzzle game that requires you to solve mysteries using your brain power as you observe one scene to the next.
iOS Apps and Games Available for Free–Limited Time Offer
Top Free iOS Apps for Productivity and Lifestyle
Loopseque Mini ($2.99): Get this music ecosystem on your iPhone that features a powerful sequencer, sampler and fx processor, among others.
#filmphotography ($2.99): A camera app that makes you shoot photos which look like they were captured on film!
Cello Tuner ($7.99): Want to tune your cello? Well, what do you know? There’s an app for that.
Dice Bag 3D Dice ($0.99): Rather than rolling actual dice, here is a virtual dice bag with all the die you could…er, die for.
Violin Tuner Professional ($7.99): Tuning your violin has now gotten way easier with just your phone!
Free iPhone games
Blackthorn Castle ($2.99): A puzzle adventure game that requires you to explore the mysterious Blackthorn Castle to solve the associated mysteries!
Sleepin’ Guy: Sleepin’ Deeply! ($2.99): Playing the role of a nice guy who can’t wake up, this first-person action-puzzle game is set in a world of dreams.
Color Lines 98 Bubbles Classic ($1.99): Time for a bit of nostalgia! Play classic lines on your smartphone or tablet with this game, featuring colorful and light graphics.
WordWhile ($1.99): Think you are a walking library with all the great literary knowledge in your noggin’? Find out if you’re the real deal here!
Cypher Vocab ($0.99): Use a game to strengthen your GRE Vocabulary the smart way, blending learning and entertainment into a single app!
The deals were live as of the publishing date. If you found an expired deal, please share it in the comments below.
Before you download one of the apps mentioned, we recommend that you check the details of the app in the Play Store or App Store. This is important because some of these free apps may have their own special features or disadvantages.
In-App Purchases and Ads: No Surprises!
Be cautious with both free and paid apps, as they may contain hidden in-app purchases and advertisements. This is particularly significant when downloading games for children. To avoid unexpected problems, please follow the advice below:
App Permissions: Read the Fine Print!
In the rapidly evolving world of mobile applications, numerous businesses utilize ingenious tactics to tap into your personal information. But worry not, tech aficionados! We’ve compiled crucial insights to assist you in safeguarding your essential data. A fundamental first step is to be selective about the permissions you grant to the apps you decide to download.
Think about it: why would a basic alarm clock app need access to your camera or your contacts? What could possibly justify a flashlight app’s request for your exact location? By carefully evaluating the permissions you approve, you can effectively shield your personal data from unwanted intrusion.
Dive into the vast array of free applications available on both Android and iOS platforms, all while making sure your information stays secure and well-protected.
What do you know? We have arrived at the end of this week’s list. May you have a fruitful and productive week ahead, while we hunt for more free apps for a limited time only.
You get into your car, plug in your phone, and Android Auto appears on the dashboard. You open Google Maps, set the destination, and then switch to Spotify to start your AI playlist.
It works and gets you from A to B with a soundtrack, but the experience could be better.
I’ll cover seven tips, from simple interface tweaks that cut distractions to automation that starts a trip with one voice command.
Put your most-used apps right at the top
Credit: Lucas Gouveia / Android Police | PixieMe / Shutterstock
When you first start using Android Auto, the app launcher on your car’s screen is arranged alphabetically. This is rarely the most efficient layout.
Your most-used apps — like Waze for traffic, Spotify for music, or Pocket Casts for podcasts — might be buried at the bottom of the list, forcing you to scroll while you should be focused on the road.
Spend two minutes organizing the launcher to pin essential apps in the top row for one-tap access. Here’s what to do:
Open Android Auto on your phone.
Tap Customize launcher.
Set Launcher sorting to Custom order.
Press and hold the six-dot icon next to an app’s name, then drag it up or down the list to reorder.
Place your top four or five apps at the top for quick access.
Uncheck the box next to any app you don’t use to declutter your screen.
Create one-tap shortcuts for your daily actions
Credit: Lucas Gouveia / Android Police | kungfu01 / Shutterstock
Some actions you perform on every drive. This can be calling your partner, checking your schedule, or navigating home. While voice commands are great, they can sometimes be slow or fail in a noisy car.
This trick lets you create one-tap shortcuts for your most common actions directly on your app launcher. Go to Android Auto settings > Customize launcher > Add a shortcut to the launcher.
For a call shortcut, tap Call a contact, pick the person you want from your contacts list, and a new icon with their name will appear in your launcher.
For an Assistant shortcut, tap An Assistant action, type the command you would normally say (for example, “What’s on my calendar today?”).
Give it a short label and tap Create shortcut. You’ll now see a button in your launcher that runs the command instantly.
Hide message previews on the dashboard to protect your privacy
The car is often a shared space. Whether carpooling with colleagues, driving your kids, or on a road trip with friends, you don’t necessarily want the content of your incoming text messages displayed on the dashboard for everyone to see.
With this setting, notifications won’t display message previews, keeping conversations out of sight.
Open Android Auto settings on your phone.
Scroll to the Messaging section.
Find the toggle labeled Show first line of conversations (or, on some phones, under Show message notifications).
Turn the toggle off.
Check that when a new message arrives, Android Auto shows only the sender’s name and the fact that you have a message.
Now, when a new message arrives, Android Auto will still alert you that you have a message and who it’s from, but the content of the message will not be displayed. You can tap the notification to have Google Assistant read it aloud to you.
Make driving easier with custom Google Assistant routines
Credit: Lucas Gouveia / Android Police | Siberian Art / Shutterstock
This is one of the most powerful efficiency tools in Android for drivers. Instead of performing the same four or five actions every time you get in the car, bundle them into a single routine.
Open the Google Home app and tap Routines.
Tap New (the “+” icon) to add a routine.
Tap Add starter and enter your command phrase (for example, “Let’s drive” or “Time for work”).
Tap Add action to start building your sequence. You can add multiple actions.
When you’re done, tap Save.
Now, the next time you get in the car, say your chosen phrase, and Google Assistant will take care of everything. Imagine exiting the office and saying, “Hey Google, I’m coming home.”
Instantly, Google sends a text to your partner that says, “I’m coming home, do you need me to get anything?’ Then, Google Maps launches and sets your route to home, while your playlist starts playing.
You can also get creative and add smart home actions to the routine. For example, the thermostat can adjust to a comfortable temperature, or the garage door can open just before you arrive.
Master hands-free navigation with advanced voice commands
Credit: Jules Wang / Android Police
Most of us use basic voice commands. However, Google’s assistant can understand more complex requests, especially with the expected switch to Gemini, which has greater contextual awareness.
There’s no setting to change here, just knowing what to ask. Try some of these powerful commands on your next drive:
For multi-stage navigation, say, “Hey Google, add a stop at the nearest petrol station.”
For contextual navigation, say, “Hey Google, what’s my ETA or what’s the traffic ahead?”
For specific media, say, “Hey Google, play my Discover Weekly playlist on Spotify.”
For targeted communication, say, “Hey Google, read my last message from Jane Doe.”
For reply with context, after a message is read, say, “Reply, I’m about 10 minutes away.”
Cut the cord with a wireless Android Auto adapter
While many new cars support wireless Android Auto, many older models still require you to plug in a USB cable. This means dealing with wires when you get in and out of the car.
A wireless adapter is a small dongle that permanently solves this problem. You plug it in once and forget about it.
From then on, your phone automatically connects to Android Auto wirelessly from your pocket or bag for a seamless experience.
Source: Amazon
Power Source
USB-C
What’s Included
USB-A to USB-C Cable
Brand
AAWireless
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Explore Android Auto’s hidden developer settings
Credit: Android Police / Shutterstock
Developer settings is the secret menu that lets you fine-tune Android Auto’s performance to match your specific car’s hardware. You can adjust the video resolution, collect debugging information to solve tricky issues, and much more.
Here’s how to access the settings:
On your phone, go to Android Auto settings.
Scroll to the bottom and tap the Version number 10 times until you see the confirmation to allow developer settings. Tap OK.
Tap the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner and select Developer settings.
If you want to explore the settings further, a few other useful settings are worth exploring.
For example, Video Resolution lets you sharpen Android Auto’s visual output up to 720p or 1080p if things look fuzzy.
There’s also an option to disable Wireless Android Auto. A wired connection can help keep your phone charged on long drives and often provides a more stable link.
I’m personally a big fan of wireless, but I know not everyone feels the same.
Android Auto is worth exploring beyond the basics
As we’ve seen, Android Auto is much more than a screen in your car. Pick one or two of these tricks for your next drive. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes.
To reduce the number of harmful apps targeting Android users, Google has announced that certified Android devices will require all apps to be registered by verified developers in order to be installed.
But this new measure is not just about malware that’s found on the Google Play Store, it’s mainly about sideloaded apps (apps downloaded from outside the official Google Play Store).
Since August 31, 2023, apps on the Play Store already were subject to a D-U-N-S (Data Universal Numbering System) number requirement. Google says this has helped reduce the number of cybercriminals exploiting anonymity to distribute malware, commit financial fraud, and steal sensitive data.
To broaden this success, Google intends to start sending out invitations gradually starting October 2025, before opening it up to all developers in March 2026. In September 2026, the requirements go into effect in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. At this point, any app installed on a certified Android device in these regions must be registered by a verified developer. The requirements will then be rolled out globally.
This initiative, branded as ‘Developer verification,’ aims to combat the widespread problem of malware from sideloaded apps. Google says its research shows that 50 times more malware comes from sideloaded sources than from Google Play itself.
So, the new rules extend to everyone distributing Android apps, including those hosting them on third-party app stores or offering APK downloads directly. For developers who distribute their apps solely through the Google Play Store there will not be much of a change.
Yet, while legitimate developers will tell you how hard it is to get their apps accepted into the Google Play Store, cybercriminals manage to sneak in their malicious apps anyway.
For a full understanding of the new requirement, we’ll need to explain what “certified Android devices” are.
A definition for a certified Android device is: an Android product—such as a smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or streaming box—that has passed a rigorous series of Google security, compatibility, and performance tests, and is officially approved by Google. Certified devices run an official version of Android and have access to Google apps and the Play Store. Uncertified devices often lack these and may not receive updates or proper security support.
This is important to know because not all Android malware is limited to phones. Take for example, the BadBox botnet which also affects devices like TV streaming boxes, tablets, and smart TVs.
In practice, a certified device encompasses all mainstream devices from Samsung, Xiaomi, Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo, Vivo, and the Google Pixel line.
Reportedly, non-certified devices are those from Huawei, Amazon Fire tablets, and a set of Chinese TV boxes and smartphones that use heavily modified OS images.
Google encourages all developers to sign up for early access as the best way to prepare and stay informed.
“Early participants will also get:
An invitation to an exclusive community discussion forum.
Priority support for these new requirements.
The chance to provide feedback and help us shape the experience.”
Whether these controls will be effective largely depends on enforcement and public awareness, but Google feels it marks real progress toward a safer mobile ecosystem. Let us know how you feel about this in the comments.
We don’t just report on phone security—we provide it
Google is bringing its “collaborate with Gemini” tools in Drive to Android and iOS apps.
The update lets you summarize documents, discuss topics, and pull facts across files on mobile.
Rollout began on September 22, but it may not have reached all users yet.
Google has been rolling Gemini features into Drive for a while now, from catching you up on file changes to summarizing meeting recordings. Until now, though, the “collaborate with Gemini” experience was limited to the web. That’s changing, with Google announcing the feature is now available in the Drive apps for Android and iOS.
As detailed on the Workspace Updates blog, this integration brings the web experience to your phone. You’ll be able to ask Gemini to summarize long documents or even entire folders, pull out quick facts from across multiple files, or discuss a topic without manually digging through everything yourself.
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The rollout began on September 22 and could take more than 15 days to reach everyone. It’s going live on both Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains.
As usual with Google Workspace features, availability depends on your plan: Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Google AI Pro for Education, and Google One AI Premium subscribers are all covered.
This is the latest in a string of Gemini upgrades for Drive. Earlier this year, Google added support for video summarization and a “Catch me up” feature that highlights edits and comments since you last opened a file. Now, those AI-powered tools are joined by full Gemini collaboration on mobile.
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The Google Play Store functions as the standard application marketplace for Android smartphones and tablets. It allows you to download and update your apps, games, movies, and electronic books in its digital retail platform.
The Google Play Store library gives you access to millions of applications across productivity, entertainment, and communication genres, and more. Click on the search bar, enter keywords, and you just have to scroll through the results to find your favorite apps.
As a Google-produced solution, it conducts safety scans on applications, which decreases potential threats. It also offers developers a development environment while getting access to specialized software markets.
Through total integration with Google services, the Play Store delivers effortless experiences for all Android devices. It permits management of subscriptions, purchases, and processes in-app charges. Users who run Android devices from custom ROMs or alternative Android systems need to perform a manual installation of the Google Play Store, but standard Android devices receive it installed from the factory.
This system maintains regular upgrades that enhance user security, performance improvements, and the total user experience.
Why Should I Download Google Play Store?
For any user operating an Android smartphone or tablet, the Google Play Store installation is essential. Not having it means you will never access the huge collection of trusted and regularly updated applications.
The Play Store functions as a platform that delivers content search, downloads, and maintains application security, together with update management. The security protocol of Google Play Protect performs verification before permitting an application into the system to ensure no malware or questionable behavior. You receive better protection from potentially harmful apps through this standard due to the lack of modification found in third-party app sources.
The main advantage of implementing the Google Play Store is the convenience it brings. You can easily search, download applications by tapping your screen. The feature of the library handles complex requirements and compatibility problems automatically, so you can only access apps that are compatible with your device.
The updates of your apps are automatically applied in the background, which keeps your devices running with current features and security updates. You can also manage all your subscriptions (like Netflix, Spotify, or any other in-app subscription) or purchases (when you buy directly an app, not in-app) directly from your Google account.
By browsing the home page, you can get recommendations for games and other apps, thanks to the use of data from your past app choices. It helps you discover productive tools, fitness applications, new games, and entertainment discovery without repeated browsing of categories. You can also use the search engine to find the content you seek.
Beyond the offer of applications, the Google Play Store includes significant options for full books and audiobook content. There also used to be a movie catalog, but it was transferred to the Google TV app. Note that the books and audiobooks you purchase are then available through the Google Play Books app.
All apps downloaded from your Google account are saved automatically, so you can easily reinstall them on new devices. You can also create a family library where all purchased apps are available for any member of your family (buy once, and it will be available for all).
For kids’ devices (phone or tablet) using the Google Family Link, the Google Play Store offers an added security feature, blocking content depending on the kid’s age. You can also block the automatic installation of apps. In that case, you’ll have to manually permit the installation.
Is Google Play Store Free?
You can access the Google Play Store without expense since it provides free support to all. All users download the app without charges, and using it (search, download, update) does not cost anything.
That said, certain digital products available through it will need to be purchased. The platform offers complimentary apps together with payment-based features that you can obtain through in-app transactions.
What Operating Systems Are Compatible with Google Play Store?
The main purpose of the Google Play Store is to function on Android devices exclusively. All Android OS-based devices start with the app included, except for those made by companies that deploy their unique application marketplaces. It can also be accessed on Chromebooks with Android app support, providing a relatively comparable experience.
However, the app is not preinstalled on Huawei devices, even if the system is based on Android. You can download the APK for the Google Play Store, but Huawei devices lack the Google services, and the apps may not function properly or at all. The Huawei phones and tablets are equipped with Huawei AppGallery.
Of course, the service does not function on iOS operating systems, including iPhones or iPads. Apple devices depend on the Apple App Store for their applications. That is also the case for Mac computers; however, you can use an Android emulator such asBluestacks and gain Play Store access on your computer.
On Microsoft Windows PCs, you can use the Google Play Games App to install Android mobile games on your Windows system or use an emulator.
Lastly, you can access your apps’ library from any device (Windows, Mac, Linux, or other) as it is available through a web page. This online solution lets you explore the content of the library and send the chosen app to your phone or tablet (if you are logged into your Google account).
What Are the Alternatives to Google Play Store?
While Android users usually select the Google Play Store as their main application marketplace, different alternatives stand ready for anyone seeking alternative options. You can also opt for secondary app stores because of geographical restrictions, hardware device constraints, or because they like the open nature of open-source systems. Some option permits you to download APK files instead of using an app library.
You can turn toAptoide, which presents a large selection of Android apps for free. The main reason to go to Aptoide as an alternative is that you can download the Aptoide App on your smartphone/tablet, and then it works just as the Google Play Store. From the Aptoide app, you can download any apps and games, and the service will offer updates when they are available. You can also access APKs directly from the Aptoide web page if you don’t want to install the Aptoide app.
If you want to download APK files, you will find APKMirror an important resource, even though it is not an official marketplace, but a respected website featuring various apps. APKMirror allows accessing outdated versions of applications, besides circumventing geographical limitations and installing unavailable apps across different territories. However, the installation process is different: you have to download an APK file and manually add it to your device, which can be a security issue due to the unofficial distribution channel.
If you are interested in open-source software, theF-Droid service offers to scroll a large library of open-source apps for Android devices. All apps are free, but you won’t be able to find the most popular ones (asWhatsApp, for example). Here you can also download the APK file.
Huawei AppGallery emerged as a leading alternative to the Google Play Store when Google services were no longer available to Huawei devices. The application center continues to develop more applications and games while persistently aiming to duplicate its competitor’s functionality, specifically for Huawei customers. Huawei AppGallery moves to develop its app selection to increase developer and user interest, though its database still remains limited compared to Google Play.
Google updated its Pixel Buds Pro 2 support page with a changelog highlighting a significant update that’s rolling out.
This new update rolls out Adaptive Audio and Loud Noise Protection to users, as well as Head Gestures for accepting/declining calls and texts.
The Buds Pro 2 had their first update in January, a long four-moth wait after its launch last September.
It’s been quite a while since Pixel Buds Pro 2 users got an update, but today’s the day a major one is rolling out with some much-needed new features.
Google updated its Pixel Buds Pro 2 support page with a changelog highlighting the newest update rolling out to end the week (via 9to5Google). Three major features in v4.467 for the Pixel Buds Pro 2 start with Adaptive Audio. Now, when you’re listening to your music or podcasts, your earbuds will automatically adjust their volume so you remain alert when outside.
Google states Adaptive Audio will “dynamically reduce the volume of unwanted noises and sounds,” while keeping you involved with what’s around you.
Furthering your listening experience is Loud Noise Protection. The changelog states that when a loud noise occurs, such as a fire engine’s siren and horn, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 will drop its volume, so the siren doesn’t burst your eardrums. Rounding out the major features is “Head Gestures” for calls and texts. While wearing your buds, nodding your head will accept calls/begin a reply to a text.
Shaking your head declines both. Google warns that some apps will require a setup process to get this working, so be alert when this update arrives and you’d like to use it.
An update that brings more
(Image credit: Andrew Myrick / Android Central)
This final feature is more of a QoL (quality of life) update, as Google states Gemini Live interactions should be a little easier in “noisy environments.” The patch notes say this update is implementing some “advanced audio processing” that puts more of a focus on your voice over background noises. It’s like Clear Calling, but for your conversations with the AI.
Users should expect their Pixel Buds Pro 2 update to begin appearing today, if not in the next several days.
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The last significant Pixel Buds Pro 2 update rolled out in January, which marked the device’s first update four months after its launch. That update was a little lackluster, as its changes/additions weren’t explicitly stated after a Reddit user discovered its existence. It also seemed more like a prelude for more to come, as Google was likely more interested in fixing up some problems users encountered early on.
