Droid Tools

Author: Robert Haba

  • Premium apps free for a limited time on Android and iOS

    Premium apps free for a limited time on Android and iOS

    Users of iOS and Android, take note! You currently have the opportunity to download several premium apps for free. But act quickly—these amazing deals aren’t around for long, so take advantage of them before these apps revert to their premium editions.

    With a wide range of programs to suit all your needs, the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store are overflowing. Many of the alternatives are free, while some have a cost. The sporadic promotional events where a variety of paid apps are available for free download are sometimes overlooked. We’ve compiled a fascinating list of some of the most intriguing apps available for free at the moment.

    Even if you don’t require an app right away, install it if it piques your curiosity. It will be added to your app library and marked as “bought” as a result. After that, you may uninstall the app straight from your phone and get it back for free anytime you need it.

    android and ios apps

    Android

    Free Android Apps

    • DJ Music Mixer ($9.99): Have a bunch of MP3s or audio files on your phone and want to play DJ? Do so with this app!
    • Equalizer & Bass Booster Pro ($2.49): Get better-sounding audio from the software perspective with this app. Oh yes, a kick of bass doesn’t hurt, either.
    • Volume Booster & Sound Booster ($2.99): Just when you think that the music is not loud enough, this app comes to the rescue.
    • Clean Wave Water Eject Pro ($2.49): Even if your phone is waterproof or water resistant, why not remove unwanted water from its speaker area with this app that claims to do so? We have not tried it, so it’s your call! 

    Free Android Games

    • Brain App Daily Training ($7.99): Our brain is also an organ that would benefit from mental exercises, so why not give this game a spin?
    • Grow Zombie ($1.99): What kind of grotesque creation do you think you can come up with in this zany zombie-growing game?
    • Neo Monsters ($0.99): Collect monsters, train them, take care of them, send them out to fight, and watch them grow more powerful!
    • Heroes Legend: Epic Fantasy ($0.99): Train heroes up and equip them with better weapons and gear as you progress in the game to grow even more powerful. 
    • Sky Wings ($0.99): An intense, fast-paced shoot ’em up that is set in space. Do you have the reflexes to take down your enemies?

    iOS

    Free iOS Apps

    • Alarmix ($3.99): Waking up to a jarring alarm clock can be disturbing, but the good thing is that this alarm app does so gently.
    • Air ShareWifi File Transfer ($4.99): An easy way to transfer music, videos, documents, photos, heck—any files from the PC or Mac to an iOS device over Wi-Fi by simply dragging and dropping.
    • Bed Time Large Clock ($0.49): The regular clock doesn’t have a large enough font for you to see? Good thing there’s an app for that. 
    • iDousyn ($6.99): An app that transforms the iPhone or iPad into a professional music production powerhouse wherever you go, with its touch-based interface. 
    • The Jiu Jitsu Class Volume 1 ($19.99): While you cannot download kung-fu modules like Neo in The Matrix, you can still learn Jiu Jitsu from an app…

    Free iPhone games

    • Get Gabbin’ ($1.99): I guess this is more of a game, offering conversational topics so that no date or meet-up will be awkward, ever again.
    • Puffin Rock Music! ($1.99): An educational game for the little ones, where they embark on an adventure with a group of puffins and create their own music.
    • Pro Wrestling Manager ($3.99): Time to make a career out of wrestlers, as you manage them well and make them superstars.
    • Axion Run ($0.99): A game that tests your reflexes, as you try to break free from gravity in an intense competition with friends.
    • Sky Master ($0.99): A beautiful shoot ’em up that is set in space, where you take down enemy ships in intense space dogfights.

    Even if you don’t require an app right away, install it if it piques your curiosity. It will be added to your app library and marked as “bought” as a result. After that, you may uninstall the app straight from your phone and get it back for free anytime you need it.

    As of the date of publication, the deals were active. Please share any expired deals you come across in the comments section below.

    We advise you to review the app’s details in the Play Store or App Store before downloading any of the aforementioned apps. This is crucial as some of these free apps can offer unique features or drawbacks of their own.

    Both free and paid apps should be avoided since they could have unnoticed in-app purchases and adverts. This is especially important while downloading kid-friendly games.

  • Motorola Edge 70 leak reveals ultra-slim body design

    Motorola Edge 70 leak reveals ultra-slim body design

    The Edge 70 is Motorola’s response to the new Apple iPhone Air and Galaxy S25 Edge, and super slim smartphones are the newest trend in the smartphone business. Finally, a new leak has given us a clear glimpse of the forthcoming Edge 70, revealing a high-end, incredibly thin body.

    Motorola Edge 70 leak hints at sleek, slim new design

    Motorola Edge 70 design green color

    Thanks to well-known tipster Evan Blass, we finally got a first glance at the Moto Edge 70. He recently tweeted about a leaked teaser poster that showed off the incredibly thin body of Motorola’s next Edge series smartphone. Looking at the image, the words “Impossibly Thin and Incredibly Tough” are displayed alongside the Edge 70. Thin-bodied smartphones usually need to be durable to prevent bending; high-end devices, such as the iPhone Air and Galaxy S25 Edge, use durable materials like titanium.

    Although Motorola is unlikely to use a comparable alloy, we may anticipate that the frame will be constructed from a durable aluminum alloy. The famous vegan leather material is frequently used by the firm for the back panels of their cellphones. However, the green color choice seems to use a glass back this time. Interestingly, the frame’s green hue blends in with the rest of the color scheme. Motorola’s foldable Razr series is the company’s flagship product, and the Edge family of phones are mid-range models.

    There are now very few tiny cellphones available on the market, and the most well-liked ones are high-end flagship models. Therefore, the Edge 70 is at last bringing the premium, high-end design to a more reasonably priced range. Additionally seen are an AI Key and a triple camera arrangement on the front of the forthcoming gadget. Since the Edge 60’s design measured 7.9 mm, the Edge 70’s body will probably be 7 mm or thinner.

  • Oppo confirms Find X9 series launch for October 16 — design and specs revealed

    Oppo confirms Find X9 series launch for October 16 — design and specs revealed

    Oppo officially announced that its Find X9 series will ship on October 16. Redesigned design elements, improved imaging, and notable battery improvements are all part of the new flagship lineup, which comprises the Find X9 and X9 Pro, according to information released on the company’s official channels.

    Find X9 series key details revealed by Oppo ahead of launch

    For comfortable handling, the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro come in 6.59-inch and 6.78-inch sizes with flat screens and symmetrical bezels that are incredibly thin. The rear panel of both smartphones has a sophisticated feel and a smooth grip thanks to its velvet sand finish.

    Find X9 series colors

    The lens module and the back have been completely merged using cold carving technique, which minimizes any obvious connection lines. The display itself offers 3840Hz high-frequency PWM dimming for improved visual comfort in addition to a full-scene 1nit eye-care mode that is compatible with all apps.

    The rear design of the Find X9 series has been made public for the first time in the brand’s latest pictures. The following shades will be offered for the series: Frost White, Mist Black, Velvet Sand Titanium, and Velvet Light Titanium, the manufacturer stated.

    oppo find x9 camera setup

    Regarding imaging, the series incorporates a Hasselblad quad camera system, which is housed in a small, square housing that lets in more light without adding bulk. The series is powered by MediaTek‘s Dimensity 9500 platform, which is based on a 3nm technology and has an Imagiq 1190 image processor, G1-Ultra GPU, and a revamped CPU.

    In order to maximize performance and efficiency across all usage circumstances, Oppo has also unveiled a new Tidal Engine software layer. It has been verified that the Find X9 and X9 Pro have 7,025mAh and 7,500mAh batteries, respectively. Both phones will enable 50W wireless and 80W wired charging.

    Additionally, Oppo has stated that the Find X9 and the Pro will shortly make their global debut. According to a recent source, the global launch ceremony is scheduled for October 28.

  • Oppo confirms launch date for ColorOS 16 based on Android 16

    Oppo confirms launch date for ColorOS 16 based on Android 16

    Samsung began updating its handsets to Android 16 earlier this week, and Oppo will do the same, albeit it doesn’t appear to be happening anytime soon. A recent rumor claims that the Chinese smartphone manufacturer would formally launch ColorOS 16, which is based on Android 16, on October 15 (it would have been great if it had been October 16, but we’re getting ahead of ourselves).

    Although it’s unknown which handsets will receive an upgrade on that day, it’s hoped that the distribution will begin right away. After all, Android 16 has been available since June, so Oppo’s updating rate is appalling.

    Whats is new in ColorOS 16

    The primary update in ColorOS 16 will be a new Liquid Glass user interface (hello, Apple). This will have dynamic animations, layered glass-like elements, and a transparent appearance, similar to iOS 26. This will provide a “futuristic and colorful feel” to the user interface, according to the leak’s source.

    ColorOS 16 mega leak

    Performance enhancements, a full-screen Always-On Display (hey Apple!), and updated lock screen widgets are reportedly on the horizon. Along with a redesigned Photos app and other personalization choices, system responsiveness should be increased for a more seamless overall experience.

    The Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, which may actually be unveiled on October 15 at the same time, will, as you might imagine, be the first devices to run ColorOS 16 straight out of the box.

  • Nothing highlights Android 16 update: new design, ‘Extra Dark’ mode, smarter AI

    Nothing highlights Android 16 update: new design, ‘Extra Dark’ mode, smarter AI

    Nothing is showcasing its Android 16 update, Nothing OS 4.0, as well as its new features and designs, ahead of its open beta launch that is “coming soon.”

    Earlier this year, the Phone (3) and Nothing OS 4.0 were announced, although the design hasn’t been revealed yet. However, nothing explains the new features of its Android 16 version in a recent post and video.

    The primary visual upgrade of Nothing OS 4.0 is a “sharper, more deliberate design across every layer.” Specifically mentions an improved Quick Settings panel, new lock screen clocks, and other changes across Nothing’s apps.

    nothing os 4 android 16 ipdate
    nothing os 4 quick settings

    In contrast to Android’s usual dark grey theme, there is a new “Extra Dark” theme that is completely black.

    The floating app icons improve multitasking, yet nothing indicates that the camera or overall performance would be improved—the latter due to the “TrueLens Engine.

    Lastly, a brand-new AI dashboard that analyzes your usage of Nothing’s AI capabilities has been introduced. In particular, it deconstructs the AI models that Nothing’s AI features—such as Whisper, GPT-4o, and Gemini Flash—use.

    nothing os 14 ai

    The release date for OS 4.0 is not specified, but it is stated that it will happen “soon.” According to Nothing’s existing support promises, the update will eventually reach Phone (2), Phone (2a), Phone (3a), and CMF phones, though it is likely to begin on Phone (3).

    Youtube video
  • Is your Google Pixel safe? Users report swelling batteries

    Is your Google Pixel safe? Users report swelling batteries

    Many people commend Google’s Pixel phones for their dependable cameras and extensive software support. To suggest that they don’t have any concessions, particularly with regard to battery quality, would be inaccurate. Battery problems, especially with older Pixel models, have been the subject of numerous stories recently; in rare cases, the problems have resulted in overheating and even fire. The Pixel 7 series is currently the subject of a fresh wave of worry.

    pixel 7a swollen battery

    Pixel 7 battery swelling reported by more users

    More Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro owners are posting concerning experiences with their devices on Reddit and Google’s help sites. The majority of problems are related to battery swelling, which results in the back panel bulging and the display panel separating. Reports of these occurrences seem to be growing, with more coming to light in recent weeks, though some go back to July and August.

    One user demonstrated that the front panel of his Pixel 7 Pro had already begun to detach from the frame. Another said that pressure from the protruding battery was causing a crack to form around the larger camera lens.

    Another user reported that the lower edge of the AMOLED panel started to separate. The owner claims that the display finally popped out after a progressive separation over time.

    Additional concerns regarding abnormalities in battery life are found when browsing these platforms. According to some consumers, the batteries in their Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro have severely deteriorated and now overheat when used frequently.

    Battery packs that have been used a lot or are worn out are probably the cause. Since the Pixel 7 series was introduced over three years ago, a large number of devices have had high charge cycles and significantly worsened battery health.

    pixel 7 swollen battery

    Is There a Fix for Pixel 7 Owners?

    The Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro have so far had patching that is case-specific and unreliable. Many people complain that the warranty has already expired on their gadgets. Some people have chosen to cover the cost of battery replacements on their own.

    Given the mounting worry, it might not be long before Google offers more extensive assistance, like a special repair program. How Google will respond to devices with further damage, such as warped back covers or cracked screens, is still unknown.

    In addition to the Pixel 7, the Pixel 6a has issues with battery-related concerns, including as the potential for fire and explosion. In response, Google launched a repair program that provided qualified consumers with free battery replacements.

    It’s still unclear if Google has actually fixed these battery problems in more recent versions, such as the Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and Pixel 10. Many people are hopeful that the company’s latest releases use better battery components.

  • Xiaomi update list: 31 phones won’t go beyond Android 15

    Xiaomi update list: 31 phones won’t go beyond Android 15

    For owners of some well-known models, Xiaomi’s upgrade timeline is not good news. Android 16 will not be available for thirty-one Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones. Rather, the last significant update for these smartphones will be HyperOS 3, which is based on Android 15. Support will then be restricted to minor fixes and security patches.

    In the universe of Android, this is not uncommon. Major updates are typically offered by brands for two to three years, with newer flagships receiving longer support. The similar pattern applies to Xiaomi’s choice, which focuses on enhancing HyperOS for the devices that are still eligible.

    POCO devices at the end of the line

    The POCO lineup losing future Android updates includes some well-known mid-range performers:

    • POCO C65
    • POCO F5 5G
    • POCO F5 Pro
    • POCO M6 Pro
    • POCO X6 Neo

    For these phones, HyperOS 3 will be the last major software release.

    Redmi phones stopping at HyperOS 3

    Numerous models in the Redmi series also stop supporting Android 15. The Redmi K lineup, low-cost gadgets, and even several Note series favorites are included in the list:

    • Redmi 12, 12 5G, 13C, 13C 5G, 13R
    • Redmi K50 Ultra, Redmi K60
    • Redmi Note 12 (4G, NFC 4G, 12R, 12S, 12T Pro, 12 Turbo)
    • Redmi Note 13 (4G, 4G NFC, 5G, 13R Pro)

    This marks the end of updates for several phones that were popular in markets like India and Southeast Asia.

    Xiaomi flagships are nearing the limit of updates.

    Not even expensive gadgets are exempt. Android 16 will not be available for a number of Xiaomi 12 series phones, such as the 12 Pro, 12S Ultra, and 12T Pro. This is also where the Civi 3 and MIX Fold 2 complete their lifetime.

    Full flagship list:

    • Xiaomi 12, 12 Pro, 12S, 12S Pro, 12S Ultra
    • Xiaomi 12T, 12T Pro
    • Xiaomi Civi 3
    • Xiaomi MIX Fold 2

    Android 15 is not the end of the story for these devices. It is anticipated that HyperOS 3 would come with a new interface that is modeled after Apple’s renowned “liquid glass” design. Users should anticipate improved system speed, additional customization choices, and a redesigned control center editor.

    Although it’s the final significant update for these phones, the distribution is scheduled to start in September 2025 and provides them a more upscale appearance before updates formally cease.

  • Quishing #alert – FBI warns smartphone users about fake QR codes stealing money

    Quishing #alert – FBI warns smartphone users about fake QR codes stealing money

    Smartphone users are now being alerted by the FBI and cybersecurity organizations to a new fraud called “Quishing,” which includes malicious or phony QR codes. Particularly vulnerable are those who often utilize QR codes for logins or payments; some victims have lost thousands of dollars. Here’s what you should know and how to protect yourself.

    The FBI and other federal authorities have recently expressed concern over the increase in QR scam attacks, sometimes known as quishing, in which unwanted parcels show up at people’s doorsteps. These packages frequently contain QR codes that, when read by the camera on mobile phones, cause victims to install malware or be redirected to phony websites. Your device may be compromised as a result, and your personal information may be taken.

    Quishing scam alert

    Online retailers are targeted by Quishing

    The most recent worry centers on these frauds that prey on people who frequently transact online. In order to steal your data, attackers are creating QR codes that point to dubious websites. These scams can also compromise your bank accounts and phone, enabling scammers to steal your money, according to the Brandenburg Consumer Advice Centre (VZB).

    In one scenario, scammers pose as legitimate customers interested in buying a product. They ask the seller to scan a QR code to start the transaction rather than giving money straight to the seller. By directing the victim to a phony PayPal login screen, this code may fool them into inputting their account information. This strategy is a type of phishing on websites.

    With zero-click tactics that don’t involve any user engagement, some attacks are become even more hazardous. Usually, high-profile people like politicians, journalists, attorneys, and activists are the target of these.

    Cyber Security Coach Online security specialist Alex East cautions that hackers might post phony QR codes in both public and private areas, such convenience store payment terminals or gas pumps. During normal transactions, these codes have the ability to reroute customers to malicious websites.

    Quishing alert - warning

    Ways to stay safe

    VZB recommends users to exercise caution when making digital transactions to prevent becoming victims of QR code frauds. It’s crucial to confirm that the vendor is the one displaying the QR code before paying, as opposed to scanning one that has been supplied by another party. Always look for indications of questionable activity on the website you are sent to, such as misspelled domain names or odd layouts.

    Scanning QR codes from unwanted parcels, email attachments, or public places should generally be done with caution as they may direct users to fraudulent websites. It’s even better to stay away from scanning QR codes completely unless you know exactly where they came from.

    It’s also strongly advised to strengthen account security using two-factor authentication (2FA), particularly when money is involved. Consider using passkeys, a more secure login option that is already supported by many websites and apps, for even more security.

    Security features on both iPhones and Android smartphones, such as warnings for phony websites and fraud detection in calls and messages, can aid in spotting scammers. To get the most protection, make sure these features are turned on.

  • Xiaomi announces S Pro Mini LED 2026 TVs with HyperOS 3, 330 Hz refresh rate, with 5200 nits of brightness.

    Xiaomi announces S Pro Mini LED 2026 TVs with HyperOS 3, 330 Hz refresh rate, with 5200 nits of brightness.

    Pre-sales for Xiaomi’s next TV S Pro Mini LED 2026 series have formally begun in China. The versions in the lineup are 65, 75, and 85 inches in size, and their respective launch costs are 6,499 yuan ($909), 8,199 yuan ($1,147), and 10,499 yuan ($1,469). A 98-inch model is also listed on Xiaomi’s official website for 19,999 yuan ($2,799), though it’s unclear if that price is set in stone.

    Xiaomi TV S Pro Mini LED 2026 specs

    Building on the Mini LED base from the previous year, the 2026 series offers significant improvements in brightness, display performance, and intelligent capabilities. Xiaomi stated that all models have a 330Hz refresh rate mode for gaming and support 4K resolution at 165Hz.

    Xiaomi announces S Pro Mini LED 2026 TVs with HyperOS 3, 330 Hz refresh rate, with 5200 nits of brightness.

    The panels’ maximum brightness is 5,200 nits, while the 98-inch model’s local dimming zones vary from 3,864 to 1,792. Each display boasts a professional-grade ΔE≈1 color accuracy rating, 10.7 billion colors, and a 95% DCI-P3 color gamut.

    With a WHVA base and a unique anti-glare coating, the TVs’ low-reflection wide-angle display lowers surface reflectance to just 0.5%. Xiaomi claims that this provides better off-angle contrast than traditional displays and enhances visibility in bright areas. Aiming for an immersive viewing experience, the chassis incorporates a 0.9mm black border and an ultra-slim 4.35mm bezel.

    A MediaTek 9655 chipset with a quad-core Cortex-A73 CPU, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage powers Xiaomi‘s most recent HyperOS 3 operating system, which is compatible with all models. Xiaomi’s Super XiaoAi voice assistant, a 4K user interface, and dynamic scene modifications utilizing ambient light sensors are all supported by the operating system.

    Xiaomi TV S Pro Mini LED 2026 1

    Motion compensation, AI-based upscaling, and real-time color tweaking are all handled by Xiaomi’s proprietary XM9000 image processor and Master Image Engine. Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, VRR, MEMC, and FreeSync Premium Pro are also supported by the TVs.

    Two upward-firing units for Dolby Atmos surround effects and a 2.1.2-channel speaker system with 61W output, adjusted by Harman, power the audio. Xiaomi has not verified whether the new, incredibly thin silver remote control is made of metal, but it does come with a dual-height metal stand with the TVs.

    The TVs have three HDMI 2.1 connections (one with eARC), USB 2.0 and 3.0, optical out, AV in, LAN, and antenna input for connectivity. Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6 are supported by the TVs.

    Additionally, Xiaomi included a millimeter-wave radar device that uses proximity to trigger eye-care alerts in Kids Mode. The TVs allow multi-screen sports streaming and are integrated into Xiaomi’s Mi Home platform.

    In related news, AKAI has released its PowerView Series TVs in India with prices starting at ₹13,990, while TCL has unveiled the QM9K QD-Mini LED TV with Google Gemini and 6,500 nits of brightness.

  • Google Scam Detector will be integrated in social apps

    Google Scam Detector will be integrated in social apps

    Hardware and software are not the only things that are changing. The sophistication of cyberthreats such as phishing and frauds is also increasing. Google just unveiled a potent AI-powered scam detection tool for Android that provides real-time notifications while making calls and sending messages. It looks like the business is now extending this tool to third-party messaging applications.

    Gemini powers Android scam detection, which starts as soon as a danger is detected. Before answering a call or even in the middle of a conversation, it notifies users. Despite its great effectiveness, the tool’s present functionality is restricted to native Android Phone and Messages apps.

    google scam detector

    This exposes consumers to attacks on WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram, among other channels where scams are equally prevalent. Thankfully, it appears like Google foresaw this gap early on.

    Meta Apps will soon get Google’s Scam Detection

    The most recent Android System Intelligence update for the Pixel 10 indicates that Google is attempting to expand scam detection beyond Messages to other messaging apps, according to Android Authority.

    Evidence of this enlargement can be discovered in code strings included in the update and in the Security and Privacy section of the tool’s settings.

    It is anticipated that the feature’s settings would include a new toggle called “Message frauds.” “Get alerts about possible frauds in notifications of chat messages from supported apps,” the description says, implying third-party platform support. Millions of users might be able to avoid scammers before they even open a questionable mail thanks to this.

    <string name="notification_adjustment_justification">May contain harmful contents</string>
<string name="notification_scam_likely_text">Likely scam</string>
<string name="scam_warning_description">Scam Detection found suspicious activity in this message</string>
<string name="scam_warning_guidelines_header">Protect yourself against scams:</string>
<string name="scam_warning_header">Likely scam</string>
<string name="not_a_scam_button_text">Not a scam</string>
<string name="snackbar_text">Scam Detection paused for this chat</string>

    Subsequent research reveals that the program may indicate questionable information or behavior by scanning messages within apps. In addition to having the option to completely or per-app disable the feature, users will be able to verify whether a message is a hoax. Users now have more control, particularly if they use a certain chat service a lot.

    Which Apps Are Going to include Google Scam Detection?

    According to reports, this feature will work with a number of apps, including Verizon Messages, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, Signal, WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, Line, and Twitter (X). After the feature is formally launched, more apps will probably be included.

    Although the release date for this feature is yet unknown, it is something to keep a close eye on. Tools like these are becoming indispensable as AI-powered scams and more sophisticated attack techniques proliferate.

    Starting with the Pixel 10 and later variants, we anticipate the feature to make its debut on Pixel devices. It should ideally spread to Android smartphones other than Google’s own.