A Reddit user flagged a counterfeit WhatsApp listing appearing in a sponsored slot ahead of the genuine app on Google's Play Store, as first reported by Android Authority. The fake app, from an unknown developer called 'Agment Assets sallu,' has over 500,000 downloads and copies WhatsApp's icon, screenshots and description text. Google has not responded to a request for comment, and the listing remained live at the time of reporting.
theverge.com
· 2026-10-16
Google has introduced Googlebooks, a new line of certified laptops built on an Android-based operating system rather than ChromeOS. Partners including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo are producing Googlebook-certified devices with carbon-fiber chassis, high-end Intel or Snapdragon processors, high-resolution screens and Gemini built in, starting at 16GB RAM and 256GB storage with about 14 hours of battery life. The devices run Android apps natively via the full Google Play Store and integrate with Android phones running Android 17 or later, syncing passwords, notifications and files.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-13
Google is expanding its Ask Play chatbot into a broader AI-powered search tool for the Play Store, letting users ask questions and get app comparisons, with similar functionality coming to Gemini. The company also launched Game Finder, a recommendation engine using a 'Gamer DNA' profile built from usage data across 1.2 billion Android gamers, rolling out in the US now. Separately, Google plans to let users privately host and share apps they build themselves using AI coding tools through the Play Store.
arstechnica.com
· 2026-10-13
Google announced that users who build apps via prompts in AI Studio can now publish them for use on their own devices through a new 'personal library' in the Play Store, without needing a paid developer account. The feature targets users 18 and older in the US and select markets, and Google says it plans to add secure sharing with friends and family later. To reach a global audience, creators would need to upgrade to a professional developer account and pass standard Play Store safety reviews.
engadget.com
· 2026-10-13
Google announced that any standard Google account holder can now use AI Studio to create personal Android apps via text prompts, with no coding required. These apps install directly to a user's own device through a private Play Store channel rather than the public listing, and can be shared with others outside the formal app store.
zdnet.com
· 2026-10-13
Google announced a redesigned Play Store interface for vehicles with Google built-in, which will adapt to different car screen sizes and orientations and add a streamlined navigation menu. The update, rolling out over coming weeks, lets drivers download featured apps with one tap and introduces new apps like Starz, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar for use while parked, plus YouTube video playback when parked for Premium subscribers.
theverge.com
· 2026-10-13
Google announced a new US feature letting people install personal apps built with AI Studio's vibe-coding tool directly through the Play Store, skipping the need to sideload via a connected computer. These apps remain private and separate from the public store catalog, are tied to a standard Google account, and Google says sharing with select groups is coming soon.
theverge.com
· 2026-10-13
Amazon introduced three new Alexa Tablets this week—8.7-inch, 11-inch, and 12-inch Pro models priced at $229, $329, and $499 respectively. The devices drop Amazon's proprietary Fire OS and custom App Store in favor of a near-stock Android experience with access to the Google Play Store. The 11-inch model includes 8GB of RAM and a 90Hz display at a lower starting price than Apple's budget iPad.
9to5mac.com
· 2026-10-10
A developer has released Breadstick Linux as an app on the Google Play Store, aimed at users frustrated with limited Linux app support on Chromebooks and Android devices. The app is positioned as an alternative to the standard Linux terminal environment built into ChromeOS.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-09
Amazon's newly announced Alexa Tablet lineup, including a top-tier 12 Pro model, will include the Google Play Store out of the box rather than relying solely on Amazon's Appstore. The 12 Pro also offers an optional Nanomatte display finish designed to cut down on screen glare.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon has introduced a new series of Alexa Tablets replacing its Fire lineup, featuring aluminum bodies and official Android 16 OS with access to Google Play. The lineup includes three models: 12 Pro, 11, and 8, priced from $230 to $500, with kids' editions available for the smaller devices. Shipping begins October 14, and Amazon commits to four years of software updates.
wired.com
· 2026-10-08
Amazon introduced a new series of Alexa tablets, including the 12 Pro, 11, and 8 models, all running on Android and offering access to the Google Play Store. These devices feature aluminum unibody designs, high-resolution screens, and enhanced performance capabilities, with the 12 Pro model boasting a 12-inch display and advanced hardware. Amazon also announced accessories like a Pro Pen and Pro Keyboard to expand tablet functionality, with prices starting at $499.99.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-10-08
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