Since early 2024, the Google Play Store has undergone a major transformation, cutting the number of available apps from 3.4 million to just 1.8 million as of April 2025—a staggering reduction of nearly half. This drastic cleanup has sparked questions among users and developers alike: Why did Google take such a bold step, and what does it mean for the future of mobile apps?

Raising the Bar for Security and Quality

Google has significantly tightened its app publishing standards to create a safer and more user-friendly marketplace. The primary goal is to eliminate apps that are outdated, fraudulent, or of low quality, ensuring that users have access to trustworthy and well-maintained software.

A major part of this initiative involves filtering out inactive and obsolete apps, which pose potential security risks. Old apps may lack necessary updates, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats like malware, data breaches, and unauthorized access. By enforcing stricter guidelines, Google reduces these risks, protecting users from downloading compromised or unreliable apps.

A Win-Win for Users and Developers

For users, the benefits are clear. The Play Store is now a more refined and secure platform, free from deceptive apps, scams, and abandoned projects. This makes it easier for users to find high-quality applications without having to sift through questionable options. A cleaner, better-curated store means a smoother and more reliable experience for everyone.

For developers, the new standards come with both challenges and opportunities. While meeting Google's stricter requirements may demand additional effort, the changes ultimately benefit those who prioritize quality and innovation. With fewer low-effort apps crowding the store, well-made applications gain greater visibility and a stronger chance of success.

The Future of Google Play: A More Reliable Ecosystem

Google's approach signals a shift toward quality over quantity. While the reduction in the total number of apps may seem extreme at first, it represents a necessary evolution in mobile software distribution. By enforcing higher standards and removing apps that fail to comply, Google is shaping a platform where users can feel confident in the apps they download.

As the industry moves forward, these measures could lead to a more sustainable and trusted mobile app environment—one where security, usability, and innovation take center stage.

Starting August 20, 2025, users will no longer have access to the Amazon Appstore on Android devices. This means new downloads, updates, and app management through the store will cease.

Amazon’s Official Announcement

Amazon has confirmed the discontinuation of its Appstore for Android devices, signaling a shift in focus towards other platforms. You can read the full details here: Amazon Appstore FAQ.

Impact on Users

• The Amazon Appstore will no longer be available for download: Users will not be able to install the Appstore app from this link after the cutoff date: Amazon Appstore Download.
• Existing apps may still work but there is no guarantee of future updates.
• Amazon Coins and other in-app purchase systems may be affected by the shutdown.

Availability on Fire TV

Although Android users will lose access, the Amazon Appstore will continue to be available on Fire TV. However, it will be more oriented toward TV apps rather than general Android mobile applications.

For more details on supported platforms and alternatives, visit: Amazon Appstore Wikipedia.

Google Cast: More Than Just Screen Mirroring

Google Cast is a casting service available on Android mobile devices and the Chrome browser. While many assume it is solely for screen mirroring, its functionality extends beyond that. Instead of simply sharing your screen, Google Cast interacts with apps on compatible TVs.

For example, if you have YouTube installed on your smart TV, you can use Google Cast from your PC or mobile device to directly open and play a video on the TV, rather than just mirroring your screen. However, this major advantage primarily works on Android TV and Google TV devices.

• Miracast/WiDi – A wireless display standard that allows direct screen mirroring without requiring an internet connection.
• Apple AirPlay – A seamless mirroring solution for Apple devices, offering high-quality streaming and screen sharing.

VIZIO SmartCast support Google Cast

Understanding how Google Cast works can be confusing. It is primarily available on Android TV and Google TV devices. Some newer VIZIO TVs also support SmartCast, which integrates with Google Cast, even though it is not fully developed by Google.

Microsoft recently announced that it is deprecating the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) on Windows 11. This decision means that support for installing and running Android apps on Windows 11 will no longer be available after March 5, 2025.

Why the Change?

Google’s Departure

The primary reason behind this move is Google’s decision to withdraw support for WSA. Without Google Play services, Android apps on Windows 11 faced limitations, making the feature less appealing to users.

Revenue Challenges

Microsoft struggled to generate significant revenue from the Microsoft Store for Android apps. The lack of financial viability contributed to the decision to deprecate WSA.

Impact on Users

If you’ve been using Android apps on Windows 11, it’s essential to be aware of this change. After March 5, 2025, you won’t be able to install or run Android apps natively on your PC.

Dailymotion: End of support

As of 2023, Dailymotion will no longer provide or update Smart TV apps for the following platforms: Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV, PlayStation, Samsung TV, Xbox (Windows).

If you have already installed Dailymotion TV-App, you can still use it. However, there's no technical support or updates for it. It's not available for new downloads on official TV AppStores.

To keep enjoying Dailymotion content on your TV, Dailymotion recommend using Chromecast or AirPlay as alternatives.

It’s hard to build rival app stores in the EU because Apple has imposed several restrictions and fees that make it unattractive for developers and users to use alternative app stores. Some of these are:

Developers who use third-party app stores have to pay Apple 0.50 euro for each annual app install after 1 million downloads.
This means that popular apps like Meta would have to pay millions of euros to Apple every year just to reach their users. Developers who use third-party payment processors have to pay Apple a 17 per cent commission on their transactions.
This is higher than the 15 per cent commission that Apple charges for apps that use its own payment system.

Users who want to install apps from third-party app stores have to go through a complicated and risky process of sideloading, which involves downloading an app installer from a website, granting it permission to access the device, and trusting that it won’t harm the device or steal data3. Apple warns users that sideloading can expose them to malware, privacy violations, and data loss...

Users who sideload apps from third-party app stores will not receive automatic updates, security patches, or customer support from Apple. They will also lose access to some features and services that are exclusive to the App Store, such as iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple Pay.

*These factors make it very difficult for anyone, including Meta, to build rival app stores in the EU that can compete with Apple’s App Store. Apple’s App Store remains the dominant and preferred platform for iOS users and developers in the region.

Apple has announced that it will comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by allowing third-party app stores and payment options on iOS devices in the EU. The changes will take effect in March 2024 with the release of iOS 17.4, which will also introduce new features and APIs for developers and users.

The DMA is a regulation that aims to prevent unfair practices by online platforms that act as gatekeepers in the digital economy. Apple, along with other tech giants such as Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Microsoft, was designated as a gatekeeper by the European Commission in September 2023, and was required to follow a set of obligations and prohibitions.

One of the main obligations for Apple was to allow users to download and install apps from third-party app stores, and to allow developers to use their own payment service providers within their apps. This means that users and developers will no longer be restricted to Apple’s App Store and its 15-30% commission fee for in-app purchases.

Apple said that it will introduce more than 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, and new capabilities for alternative browser engines to enable developers to take advantage of the new options. However, Apple also warned that the new options will create new risks for users and their devices, such as malware, fraud, scams, illicit and harmful content, and privacy and security threats.

To mitigate these risks, Apple said that it will introduce new safeguards, such as notarization for iOS apps, authorization for marketplace developers, disclosures on alternative payments, and controls for contactless payments and default browser selection. Apple also said that it will provide new resources and guidance for users to help them navigate the changes and protect themselves from potential harm.

Apple said that the changes will only apply to the 27 EU countries, and that developers can choose to remain on the same business terms as before if they prefer. Apple also said that it will continue to deliver the best, most secure experience possible for its users in the EU and around the world.

A few months ago, Amazon revealed that it would begin showing ads in Prime Video, even for those who are Prime members. Amazon is wasting no time because emails have started rolling out to customers telling them to expect to start seeing ads starting on January 29th. The only way to avoid the new ads next month, apart from just not watching Prime Video content, is to pay an extra $2.99 per month on top of your regular Prime membership fee...

The AmazonFire TV Stick 4K MAX 2023 is the newest and most powerful streaming device from Amazon. It has a faster processor, more storage, and better graphics than the AmazonFire TV Stick 4K 2023, which makes it ideal for watching 4K content, playing games, and using apps. It also runs on Fire OS 8 and Android 11, which offer a user-friendly interface, voice control, and security updates.

AmazonFire TV Stick 4K MAX 2023

• Fire OS version: Fire OS 8
• Build model: android.os.Build.MODEL AFTKRT
• Android version: android.os.Build.VERSION.SDK_INT Android Level 30 (Android 11)
• Processor: CPU Mediatek MT8696T up to 2.0 GHz
• Binary GPU: GE9215 up to 850 MHz
• Memory (RAM): 2GB LPDDR4
• Storage: 16 GB

AmazonFire TV Stick 4K 2023

• Fire OS version: Fire OS 8
• Build model: android.os.Build.MODEL AFTKM
• Android version: android.os.Build.VERSION.SDK_INT Android Level 30 (Android 11)
• Processor: CPU Mediatek MT8696D up to 1.7 GHz
• Binary GPU: GE9215 up to 650 MHz
• Memory (RAM): 2GB LPDDR4
• Storage: 8 GB

For only $10 more than the previous model, the AmazonFire TV Stick 4K MAX 2023 is a smart upgrade that will enhance your streaming experience. You can order it online from Amazon or other retailers for $59.99, and enjoy thousands of channels, apps, and Alexa skills on your TV.

Netflix is notifying subscribers who still pay through Apple's App Store that they'll soon need to update their payment method to keep their accounts active.

No More In-App Subscription Payments via Apple

Although Netflix stopped allowing new sign-ups through iOS in 2018, existing subscribers who were already paying via in-app purchase were able to continue. Now, Netflix is ending that arrangement, cutting ties with Apple's billing system to avoid the 15 percent fee Apple charges on subscription payments.

Who Will Be Affected?

According to the U.S. Netflix support site, customers in “some” countries will be required to switch to a new payment method, but the company hasn't specified which regions are affected. However, since this notice appears on Netflix's U.S. site, it likely impacts subscribers in the United States.

“Some Apple-billed members in select countries may be prompted to add a new payment method to continue their subscription.”

A Long-Awaited Shift

It's unclear how many users still rely on Apple's billing system, given that Netflix removed this payment method almost six years ago. Since 2018, iPhone and iPad users have been required to sign up directly through the Netflix website, as the app no longer offers a subscription option—only a sign-in screen.

When Netflix initially ended App Store billing, it assured existing subscribers that they could continue using it until they canceled their accounts. Now, Netflix appears ready to move forward, phasing out Apple's system entirely.

In partnership with iFixit, HMD Global will release the first self-repairing Nokia smartphone next February. The Nokia G22 is an entry-level device that features a 6.5-inch IPS LCD display, a 50 MP triple camera, a 5050 mAh battery, and a Unisoc T606 chipset. It runs on Android 12 and has a QuickFix user-reparable design.

The Nokia G22 comes with a free kit that includes a pair of wireless earbuds, a protective case, and a screen protector. This offer may vary depending on the market and the retailer. You can check the availability and the price of the Nokia G22 and the free kit in your region by visiting the official Nokia website or a trusted online store.

In a seismic shift that reverberated across the tech world, Twitter, the social media giant known for shaping global conversations, found itself under new ownership on October 28, 2022. The surprise acquisition saw none other than Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind SpaceX and Tesla, step into the spotlight as the new steward of the platform, marking a significant turning point in the company's history.

The deal, valued at a staggering $44 billion, sent shockwaves through financial markets and social media circles alike, as speculations ran rampant about the potential implications of Musk's ownership. Known for his unorthodox approach and bold vision for the future, Musk's entrance into the realm of social media promised to inject fresh energy and innovation into Twitter's DNA.

For Musk, the acquisition represented a strategic move to expand his influence in the digital sphere and leverage Twitter's vast reach to amplify his message on topics ranging from space exploration to cryptocurrency. With his unparalleled ability to disrupt industries and drive change, Musk's involvement sparked both excitement and apprehension among Twitter users, who pondered the implications of his leadership.

Under Musk's helm, Twitter was expected to undergo a series of transformations aimed at enhancing user experience, combating misinformation, and fostering a more vibrant and inclusive online community. His ambitious vision for the platform included exploring new monetization strategies, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and reimagining the way people interact and engage with content.

However, the acquisition also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, privacy issues, and the delicate balance between free speech and content moderation. As one of the most influential figures in the tech world, Musk's every move was scrutinized under a microscope, with stakeholders closely monitoring his decisions and their impact on Twitter's future trajectory.

Despite the uncertainties and challenges ahead, the acquisition heralded a new chapter for Twitter, one defined by innovation, disruption, and the relentless pursuit of progress. As users braced themselves for a wave of changes and adjustments, one thing remained certain: with Elon Musk at the helm, Twitter was poised to chart a course into uncharted territory, reshaping the digital landscape in its wake.

The Hola VPN Chrome extension was removed from the Google Chrome web store in September 2021 due to safety concerns. It was found to contain malware that could hijack users' devices and expose them to man-in-the-middle attacks...

Hola VPN: A Risky and Unreliable Service That You Should Avoid

Hola VPN is a free VPN service that claims to make the internet faster and more open. However, it is not really a VPN, but a peer-to-peer proxy service that shares your idle bandwidth with other users. This means that you have no control over who uses your IP address and what they do with it. You could be unknowingly involved in illegal or malicious activities, such as spreading malware, injecting ads, or accessing restricted content.

Hola VPN has a history of security and privacy violations that have put its users at risk. In 2016, it was found to be a vehicle for malware that hijacked users’ devices and turned them into a botnet.

Google TV is a new version of Android TV that offers a more personalized and intuitive interface, better content recommendations, and more integration with other Google services and devices. Some of the features that Google TV has over Android TV are:

• - A new home screen that puts content first, instead of apps. You can browse movies and shows from different streaming services in one place, and see suggestions based on your preferences and watch history.
• - A new Watchlist feature that lets you save titles to watch later, across devices. You can add titles to your Watchlist from the Google TV app, the Google Search website, or from your phone or tablet.
• - A new Live tab that shows you live TV channels from your connected services, such as YouTube TV or Sling TV.
• - A new For You tab that shows you personalized recommendations from different genres and categories, such as comedy, drama, or family.
• - A new Library tab that shows you your purchased or rented titles from Google, as well as your personal videos and photos from Google Photos.
• - A new Ambient Mode that lets you turn your TV into a smart display, showing you your photos, the weather, the time, and more.
• - A new Google Assistant that lets you control your TV and other smart devices with your voice, search for content, get answers, and more. You can also use the Assistant to make video calls with Google Duo, or cast your phone screen to your TV.

Google TV is currently available on the Chromecast with Google TV, which was launched in September 2020, and on some smart TVs from Sony and TCL, which were launched in 2021. Google plans to bring Google TV to more devices and platforms in the future, including existing Android TV devices...

OPPO to Release Its First Foldable Phone in December 2021

In a move that signals its foray into the foldable smartphone arena, OPPO has announced the impending release of its first-ever foldable device, slated to hit the shelves in December 2021.

The Chinese tech giant, renowned for its innovative strides in the smartphone industry, has long been anticipated to join the ranks of manufacturers offering foldable devices. With this forthcoming launch, OPPO aims to carve out a niche for itself in the burgeoning foldable phone market, currently dominated by the likes of Samsung and Huawei.

While details regarding the specifications and features of OPPO's foldable phone remain under wraps, enthusiasts and industry experts alike are abuzz with speculation. Anticipated to blend cutting-edge technology with sleek design, OPPO's entry into the foldable phone space promises to deliver a compelling user experience.

Foldable smartphones have garnered significant attention in recent years, with their ability to seamlessly transition between a traditional smartphone form factor and a larger tablet-like display. This versatility has captured the imagination of consumers seeking enhanced productivity and multimedia capabilities without sacrificing portability.

OPPO's decision to join the foldable phone market underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and meeting the evolving needs of tech-savvy consumers. As anticipation mounts in the lead-up to the December release, all eyes are on OPPO to see how its inaugural foldable device will stack up against the competition.

In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphone technology, OPPO's entry into the foldable phone arena represents a significant milestone, marking the dawn of a new era in mobile innovation. With December 2021 fast approaching, the stage is set for OPPO to unveil its vision of the future of smartphones and make its mark in the foldable phone market.

HolaVPN is a free VPN service that claims to make the internet faster and more open. However, it is not really a VPN, but a peer-to-peer proxy service that shares your idle bandwidth with other users. This means that you have no control over who uses your IP address and what they do with it. You could be unknowingly involved in illegal or malicious activities, such as spreading malware, injecting ads, or accessing restricted content.

HolaVPN does not encrypt your connection or provide any security features, such as a kill switch or leak protection. It also does not work with Netflix, torrenting, or bypassing censorship. It is a dangerous and unreliable service that you should avoid at all costs. Instead, you should use a reputable VPN service that respects your privacy and security, and offers fast and reliable performance.

You Should Avoid HolaVPN: The Risks of a Peer-to-Peer Proxy Service

HolaVPN has a history of security and privacy violations that have put its users at risk. In 2016, it was found to be a vehicle for malware that hijacked users’ devices and turned them into a botnet. In 2021, it was removed from the Google Play store and the Google Chrome web store due to a vulnerability that allowed for man-in-the-middle attacks. It also logs all your online activity and sells your data to third parties.

Bluesky is a decentralized social network developed by Jack Dorsey and his team. It aims to provide social media as it should be: a place where users can find their community, unleash creativity, and have fun again1. Built on the AT Protocol, Bluesky offers features like custom feeds, federated services, and clients. You can explore more about Bluesky through their official website or check out the documentation for details on APIs, tutorials, and starter templates3. Additionally, you can download the Bluesky app for Android from Uptodown.

Bluesky works in closed mode to test its AT Protocol, a new open source standard for decentralized social networks. This protocol allows users to choose their own custom feed, their own federated services, and their own clients...

• Uptodown Link: https://bluesky-social.en.uptodown.com/android
• Official website: https://bsky.app
• Bluesky documentations: https://docs.bsky.app

Facebook's annual developer conference, F8, underwent a virtual transformation in 2020, rebranded as F8 Refresh. Held on June 2nd, 2020, this event shifted the spotlight to updates in three key areas: augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), messaging, and privacy.

F8 Refresh showcased Facebook's commitment to developer empowerment, unveiling new tools for creating immersive AR/VR experiences, enhancing messaging capabilities, and prioritizing user privacy. Despite the virtual format, the event fostered connectivity and collaboration among developers worldwide.

As we embrace this new era of virtual innovation, F8 Refresh stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the developer community, driving us towards a future of endless possibilities.

Opening the latest version of Firefox for Fire TV now displays a warning banner at the top informing you that the app will no longer be supported after April 30, 2021. The banner remains present even while browsing web pages.
I asked Mozilla about the banner and they told me that it is permanent and that there is no way for users to dismiss it. The only time the banner is not present is when watching a video in full-screen. That means, if you want to continue using Firefox for Fire TV without a warning banner at the top, you’ll need to uninstall the new 4.8 version and sideload the older 4.7.1 version.

There don’t seem to be any other noticeable updates between the two versions, but there are definitely more changes behind the scenes than just the banner being added. The Github source has had hardly anything changed since the 4.7.1 version, but it doesn’t show any reference to this 4.8 version so it’s hard to say if everything in 4.8 is on Github. I decompiled the two APKs and there are about 100 files that differ between the two versions, so it’s definitely more than just an added banner.

Ref: https://github.com/mozilla-mobile/firefox-tv/commits/master

Users should consider using the Silk Browser on your Fire TV instead because Firefox will continue to become more and more vulnerable to attack as time passes, since it is no longer being updated.

GitHub Universe 2019 is set to ignite San Francisco from November 13th to 14th. As GitHub's premier annual conference, it's a must-attend for developers, software engineers, and open-source enthusiasts.

Featuring keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and discussions, GitHub Universe offers insights into collaboration, community, and innovation in software development.

Attendees will delve into cutting-edge technologies, share ideas, and foster creativity while building connections and exploring new tools and best practices.

Make your mark at GitHub Universe 2019 from November 13th to 14th in San Francisco. Let's shape the future of software development together.

Ref https://github.blog/2019-08-01-why-you-need-to-be-at-github-universe-2019/