What are Xiaomi’s Super Wallpapers?

Xiaomi’s exclusive set of Super Wallpapers are a unique feature on their phones, where the same wallpaper essentially blends across the AOD, lock screen, and the home screen with a continuous, fluid motion.

Earlier this year, Xiaomi brought the new “Moon” Super Wallpapers to HyperOS, featuring five scenes (Chang’e 5, Tranquility Base, The Apennines, Moon Palace, and The Far Side of the Moon). Initially limited to HyperOS devices, the pack has now been ported by developers at “App Ports” to run on any Android device.

READ MORE: How to Get the Original iPhone Wallpapers on Any Phone ➜

The Pre-Requisites

The port includes a pack of all six Super Wallpapers: Earth, Geometry, Mars, Moon, Saturn, and Snow Mountain. For this app to work properly, you will need to have:

1. Google Wallpapers Installed: Make sure you have the Google Wallpapers app installed on your device.
2. Android 10+: Your phone’s operating system must be Android 10 or later.
3. Active internet connection: An active internet connection is required to download the wallpaper pack initially.

Please note that these wallpapers require the Google Wallpapers app, which is not a standalone application but rather a feature within the Google Pixel Launcher on Android devices.

This means that while the wallpapers should work on any device compatible with Google Wallpapers, some manufacturers may use their own proprietary settings for managing wallpapers, potentially leading to minor bugs.

Limitations

While Xiaomi’s Super Wallpapers are optimized for devices with Always-On Display, the ported version currently only allows rooted devices to access the AOD feature. While non-rooted devices can still install and use the wallpapers, they unfortunately won’t be able to set them on the AOD screen.

Installing the Moon Super Wallpaper

Each wallpaper in the ported pack comes as an APK file that needs to be installed, and the wallpaper automatically appears in your device’s wallpaper setting. The pack is available on the App Ports Telegram channel, linked below.

1. Download the App:
   1. Join the Telegram channel “App Ports.”
   2. In the channel, search for “Xiaomi SuperWallpapers 2.6.561“.
   3. Tap the message containing the download link.
   4. Alternatively, you can directly download the APK using the link above.
2. Choose the Correct Version:
   1. The download page provides separate versions for non-root and rooted devices.
   2. Download the APK that matches your phone’s root status:
      • Non-root users: Download the “Non-Root” version.
      • Rooted users: Download the “Root” version.
3. Install the APK:
   1. Locate the downloaded APK file on your device.
   2. If prompted, allow app installation from unknown sources in your device’s settings.
   3. Tap the APK file to install it.
4. Activate the Wallpaper:
   1. Open the Google Wallpapers app.
   2. Go to the “Live Wallpapers” section.
   3. You should now see all the scenes from the Moon Super Wallpaper.

Known Issues

While the installation process was relatively straightforward, the port did not function properly on all devices. The developer mentions that “wallpapers cannot be displayed on the Always-On Display (AOD) on some OEM skins (One UI, OxygenOS).” However, during our testing, we encountered additional issues running the app on some custom ROMs.

When tested on a device running PixelOS, the Moon Super Wallpaper displayed a black screen before defaulting back to a stock wallpaper. All other wallpapers in the pack appeared to function normally. In contrast, the wallpapers worked perfectly on three different Xiaomi devices running MIUI and one device running Pixel Experience.

Super Wallpapers have always been criticized for their excessive battery usage. Similarly, since these are essentially Live Wallpapers, they tend to drain your battery more quickly. So, please use them accordingly and be aware of the toll these can take on your phone’s battery life.

READ MORE: How to Fix Xiaomi Phone Keeps Restarting Randomly Issue? ➜

Conclusion

The SuperWallpaper mod from linuxct has been receiving consistent updates for the past few years, and some of the bugs listed above may be removed in the upcoming updates. The wallpaper package will be tweaked in the coming days to incorporate support for an even larger number of devices.

The post How to Install HyperOS Moon Super Wallpaper on Any Android? appeared first on Appuals.

Multiple factors could cause this issue. One of the primary reasons is Battery Optimization, as this prevents the app from working in the background. Other possible reasons include insufficient app permissions and server issues.

In this article, we will discuss several solutions to fix this issue.

Preliminary Fixes

• Restart your Device: Temporary issues with your device may cause services like location to malfunction, so it is advisable to restart your device before attempting further troubleshooting.
• Server Issues: The app might be under maintenance or experiencing server outages, so it’s wise to check the server status before doing anything else. You can check for server issues on Downdetector.
• Check Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for the app’s smooth operation. If you’re facing issues, verify your internet speed on Fast or Speedtest by Ookla. If the speed is slow, consider restarting your router/modem or contacting your ISP.
• Multiple Devices: As Life360 is a location-sharing app, it requires that an account be logged in on only one device at a time. Using the same account on multiple devices can lead to bugs, so it’s recommended to use your account on a single device.

1. Allow Life360 to Run in the Background

Life360 needs to run in the background to share real-time location data. If background permissions are restricted, it could prevent the app from functioning correctly.

1. Tap and hold the Life360 app icon, then tap on the Info icon.
   
2. Tap on Battery.
   
3. Select Unrestricted.
   

2. Allow Location Permission

Life360 requires constant location permissions to function correctly. Inadequate location permissions could hinder the app’s performance.

1. Tap and hold the Life360 app icon, then tap on the Info icon on the top right side.
   
2. Tap on Permissions.
   
3. Tap on Location.
   
4. Select Allow all the time and enable Use Precise Location.
   

3. Check for Updates

Using an outdated version of the app could result in malfunctions. New updates often bring improved features and bug fixes.

1. Open the Play Store or App Store, and search for Life360.
2. Check if any updates are available.
   

Launch the app once the update has finished installing.

4. Reinstall Life360

Reinstalling the app can remove any data files related to Life360 that may be causing bugs or glitches:

1. Tap and hold the Life360 app icon, and select Uninstall.
   
2. Go to the Play Store or App Store, and search for Life360.
3. Click on Install.
   

Reopen the application once it’s successfully installed.

The post How to Troubleshoot and Fix Life360 When It Stops Working appeared first on Appuals.

Several issues could cause this problem, such as incorrect setup, application glitches, device bugs, a poor internet connection, inaccurate date and time settings, or corrupted cache files.

Furthermore, if your organization has specified requirements when using school or work accounts and those are not met, the application may also fail to work correctly.

For example, some organizations might require device encryption or the installation of Google Play Services. Additionally, your account might have been blocked due to policy violations. It’s recommended to contact your IT help desk to address these potential issues before attempting the troubleshooting steps below.

If your device is registered with Azure AD, consider re-registering it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, proceed with the troubleshooting methods detailed below.

1. Perform All Network Checks

Begin with some basic diagnostics to ensure there are no hindrances in your network connection. Poor internet often causes issues with the Microsoft Authenticator app. Confirm the stability of your connection, even if you appear to be online. Use online tools to test your internet speed.

Deactivate Airplane mode if it’s on. Since a VPN can alter your location, disable it as well. If you’re using Wi-Fi, consider switching to mobile data, or vice versa.

2. Force Quit & Restart

Problems with running processes in the application can cause various malfunctions. Address this by force-quitting the app and restarting it.

1. Swipe up from the bottom of your screen and pause in the center to open App Switcher. On some devices, you might use the Home Button or a multitasking icon.
2. Swipe left or right until you find the Microsoft Authenticator app.
3. Swipe the app preview upwards to close it forcibly.
4. Another method for Android users: Long-press the app’s tile and select App info, then choose Force stop and confirm by tapping OK.

Wait a few moments before reopening the application.

3. Allow Notification Permission

For Microsoft Authenticator to display login approvals, notification permissions must be enabled.

On Android:

1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Scroll and tap on Apps.
3. Select Manage apps.
4. Find and select Microsoft Authenticator.
5. Tap on Notifications.
6. Turn on the toggle for Show Notifications.

On iPhone:

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll to and tap on Microsoft Authenticator.
3. Tap on Notifications and enable Allow Notifications.

4. Turn Off Battery Optimization

Battery optimization on Android devices can limit background activity of apps, potentially causing delays in authentication codes. Disabling this feature might improve the app’s responsiveness.

1. Open Microsoft Authenticator.
2. Tap on the three vertical dots in the upper-right corner.
3. Select Turn off battery optimization.
4. Confirm by tapping Allow.

5. Enable Automatic Date & Time Settings

Syncing your device’s clock with your actual location is crucial for the app’s functionality since it relies on precise timing.

On Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll to Additional Settings.
3. Select Date and time.
4. Enable Set time automatically.

On iPhone:

1. Head to Settings, then General.
2. Tap on Date & Time.
3. Switch on Set Automatically.

6. Update the Application

Regular updates can fix bugs and glitches. Keeping your applications up to date is highly recommended. If automatic updates are not enabled, here’s how to manually update apps:

On Android:

1. Visit Play Store and access your profile.
2. Select Manage apps and device.
3. Tap Updates available. Search for Microsoft Authenticator and tap Update beside it, or choose Update all at the top.

On iPhone:

1. Open App Store and visit your profile.
2. Find Upcoming Automatic Updates.
3. Locate Microsoft Authenticator and tap Update next to it, or hit Update All to refresh all apps at once.

7. Re-Authenticate Your Account

Re-adding your account can resolve synchronization or misconfiguration issues by re-establishing the connection between the app and the servers.

1. Open the Microsoft Authenticator app.
2. Select the account you wish to remove under the Authenticator tab.
3. Tap the gear icon in the corner and choose Remove account.
4. Confirm by selecting Continue.
5. To re-add, go to the + icon in the Authenticator tab.
6. Select the type of account you are adding and follow the on-screen instructions, granting necessary permissions along the way.

8. Clear Cache/Offload

Clearing your cache can resolve functionality issues. Rest assured that this will not delete important data.

On Android:

1. Access Settings and tap on Apps.
2. Visit Manage apps.
3. Find Microsoft Authenticator and select it.
4. Tap on Storage.
5. Choose Clear cache or Clear data.

On iPhone:

1. Enter Settings and choose General.
2. Go to iPhone Storage.
3. Search for Microsoft Authenticator and tap on it.
4. Select Offload App.
5. Confirm by tapping Offload App again.
6. After a moment, the option to Reinstall App will appear. Click it to proceed.

9. Contact Microsoft Support

If none of the above solutions work and the issue persists after consulting your IT department, it’s time to seek assistance from Microsoft Support. Choose the appropriate option based on your issue for professional help.

The post How to Troubleshoot Microsoft Authenticator Not Working Issues? appeared first on Appuals.

Most often, the application fails to work properly if it’s under maintenance or when the servers are down. In such instances, the only recourse is to wait it out. At other times, problems such as a poor internet connection or an overloaded cache can cause hindrances.

To verify if it’s a connectivity issue, test your internet speed or switch to a different network. To address cache-related issues, try accessing the Chipotle website from your browser. If it works there, the issue might be with your device or the application itself. Below are some fixes to consider.

1. Turn Off the VPN (If Applicable)

Chipotle operates in specific locations, such as the US, UK, Canada, Germany, and France. If you’re using a VPN, it can change your IP address to servers outside of these locations, causing the app to malfunction. Disabling the VPN can remedy this issue.

1. Go to the VPN app and disconnect from there.
2. Alternatively, access Settings and toggle off VPN.
   

2. Restart the App

Restarting the app can resolve temporary glitches either in the device or the app itself.

1. Long-press the app tile and select App info.
2. In the settings, tap Force stop.
   
3. Alternatively, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and locate the Chipotle app preview.
4. Swipe up to close the app.
   

After waiting for a few moments, relaunch the app to check if the issue has been resolved.

3. Ensure Date & Time Are Correct

Incorrect date and time settings can cause your device to appear located in the wrong time zone, leading to issues with app functionality.

On Android:

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Additional Settings.
3. Select Date and time.
4. Toggle on Set time automatically, or manually set the correct Date, Time, and Time Zone.
   

On iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to General.
3. Tap on Date & Time.
4. Enable Set Automatically, or manually adjust the Date, Time, and TimeZone.
   

4. Clear App Cache

An overloaded app cache can lead to performance issues. Clearing it occasionally can help maintain smooth app operation.

On Android:

1. Launch Settings and select Apps.
2. Tap on Manage apps.
3. Find and select Chipotle.
4. Tap on Storage, followed by Clear cache or Clear data.
   

iPhone users can offload the app to clear the temporary data (as explained in the next method).

5. Offload the App

Offloading the app on an iOS device can help resolve issues by removing temporary data while retaining important information before reinstalling the app.

1. Open the Settings app and select General.
2. Tap on iPhone Storage.
3. Find and tap on the Chipotle app.
4. Tap Offload App. After a few moments, tap on Reinstall App.
   

6. Update the App

If the app is not the latest version, updating it can often fix existing issues.

On Android:

1. Go to the Play Store, tap on your profile.
2. Select Manage apps and device.
3. Choose Updates available.
4. Find Chipotle and tap Update. Alternatively, tap on Update all.
   

On iPhone:

1. Open the App Store and go to your profile.
2. Scroll down to Upcoming Automatic Updates.
3. Locate Chipotle and tap the Update button, or choose Update All.
   

7. Reinstall the App

As a last resort, uninstall and then reinstall the Chipotle app. This will ensure a clean installation devoid of any corrupt data.

1. Long press on the Chipotle app tile on your home screen.
2. Select Uninstall or Remove App.
   
3. Open the Play Store or App Store, according to your device type.
4. Search for Chipotle.
5. Next to the Chipotle app, tap Install to reinstall it.

The post How to Fix the Chipotle App When It’s Not Working? appeared first on Appuals.

The problem can arise due to several factors, such as a poor internet connection, an outdated app version, expired cache, and app data. However, it’s primarily caused by server outages on Twitter’s end or expired credentials.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps to overcome this issue and restore the search functionality on Twitter.

The issue may be isolated to a particular device or browser. Before trying to resolve the issue, try using the search feature on an alternative device or web browser to determine whether the problem persists.

Moreover, a slow or weak internet connection may prevent the Twitter search feature from working properly. Check your device’s internet connectivity. If it’s insufficient, restart your router or connect to a different internet network to see if that resolves the issue.

1. Twitter Server is down

One common cause for the malfunction of certain Twitter services or features is a server outage. You should check the server status of the Twitter app. In the event that the server is down, you will need to wait for it to come back online. The Downdetector website may also indicate if others are reporting the same issue.

2. Update the App

Make sure you have installed the latest version of the Twitter app. Twitter regularly addresses and corrects bugs and crashes with each new app update. To check for updates, go to your device’s Play Store or App Store, search for Twitter, and update if a newer version is available.

If you are using the web version of Twitter (X) on a computer, press CTRL + F5 (Command + Shift + R on a Mac) to refresh the page.

3. Log Out and Log In

Occasionally, a user’s login session might expire, yet the app indicates they are logged in, leading to malfunctioning features. Logging out and then logging back in can refresh the app and potentially fix the search feature.

1. To log out, open Twitter (X) and tap on the profile icon at the top left corner.
   
2. Select Settings and Support, then tap on Settings and privacy.
   
3. Navigate to Your Account.
   
4. Enter Account Information.
   
5. Tap on Log out.
   

If you’re accessing Twitter (X) via a browser, log out by clicking the three horizontal dots at the bottom left of the screen and then clicking “Log out.”

Afterwards, log back in with your Twitter account credentials.

4. Clear Cache and App Data

Cached data can sometimes result in app malfunctions, including issues with the search function. Cache consists of temporary files designed to speed up loading times, not to mention that clearing it doesn’t erase your user information from the app. However, clearing the App Data will sign you out, necessitating a new login upon clearing.

1. Firstly, open the Settings on your Android phone.
   
2. Access the Apps Section.
   
3. Scroll to and select Twitter (X).
   
4. Tap on Storage and cache.
   
5. Clear both the cache and App data (Storage).
   

For browser users accessing Twitter (X), clear your cache by following our comprehensive guide on how to clear a browser’s cache on Windows.

The post Is Your Twitter Search Not Working? Try These Fixes appeared first on Appuals.

In this guide, we’ll be discussing some of the must-have apps for Android Auto and how they’ll improve your overall driving experience.

What Apps Do You Need on the Road?

While driving, you may need some services that can help you to make your travelling experience even more pleasant. There are apps that can handle your calls and messages, keeping your hands free and focus on the road. They can also alert you to weather conditions and potential police activity ahead, allowing you to adjust your route accordingly.

It’s possible that you may need help finding the cheapest gas station around, or simply need directions to a specific place. Android Auto, unlike Apple CarPlay supports installation of third-party apps, that can give you greater flexibility in using the apps you like.

READ MORE: The Best Wireless Apple CarPlay Adapters In 2024 ➜

1. Waze

Waze is a navigation app, similar to Google Maps, but the key difference is that it is community-driven. Users can report accidents, police activity, hazards, and traffic blockages in real-time. It has a modern and user-friendly interface, and the service also supports voice commands.

Your speed is continuously displayed on the map, and you can easily set directions to various locations, including but not limited to nearby restaurants, parking, shopping, and gas stations. The app even provides information on gas prices in certain areas. While traveling, you can conveniently check for nearby places with amenities such as restrooms and parking.

One of the app’s better features is that you can prompt it to set a specific route to avoid freeways, unpaved roads, difficult intersections, and even tolls. However, Waze doesn’t have strong offline support like Google Maps, which can be important when you are on the road and are moving through areas with weak to no cellular connection.

All in all, Waze can be a great service to help you on the road, especially if it is used with apps like Google Maps, that have a better navigation network and offline support.

2. Google Maps

There’s no chance Google Maps doesn’t make it to the list. It is inarguably the most versatile and strongest mapping service on Android, with support for live location sharing and satellite view. It does most of what Waze does, with alerts for speed traps, accidents and blockages.

Google Maps has separate categories for restaurants, shopping, gas, shopping and groceries to help you find the nearby location you wish to find. Other than that, the service is mainly accurate and reliable, but can sometimes get it wrong with directions. Regardless, it is the most popular navigation app on Android, with a huge user-base around the globe.

READ MORE: How to Use Google Street View in 2024 – Explained in Easy Steps ➜

3. ChargePoint

If you are an EV owner with a long route to cover, you may have found yourself in one of those tense positions where you are constantly looking at your remaining range and thinking to yourself about finding the nearest charging station. Well, ChargePoint helps you with exactly that.

This app can be one of the more important services to have onboard while driving an electric vehicle, as it operates the world’s largest network of charging stations. It allows you to check for nearby charging stations, filtering them by Free, Available, and DC Fast.

ChargePoint also enables you to see the estimated pricing for most of the available stations and can direct you to them using a mapping service, such as Google Maps or Waze.

4. Spotify

Spotify is the obvious choice for anyone looking for a music streaming app for their car. The app has one of the cleanest interfaces and boasts a large library of songs from artists around the world. It relies on its algorithmic prowess to suggest you suitable songs based on your previous listening habits.

On the road, your main focus shouldn’t be changing the music and so, you can rely on Spotify to suggest you music that is just right for you and resonates with your listening habits. It has separate playlists that separates songs based on your mood, setting or time.

The app allows you to sync your songs seamlessly so, there isn’t much hassle in setting it up and finding the perfect music every time you sit inside your vehicle. On the flip side, you will need to pay for Spotify Premium for offline listening and to get rid of adverts.

READ MORE: What is the Spotify Iceberg? How to Easily Create One [2024] ➜

5. YouTube Music

YouTube Music on Android Auto is more or less similar to the mobile app. It features a nice, smooth interface, and the app feels snappy to use. With the largest library of songs, any music uploaded to YouTube from around the globe is available here.

In addition, the app creates personalized mixes for you, and each song comes with its own loop, shuffle, like/dislike, and scrubbing functionality. All in all, it’s a great app to have in your bag when you’re traveling on the road.

READ MORE: YouTube Music Keeps Stopping? 10 Easy Methods to Fix It ➜

6. Scanner Radio – Police Scanner

While entertainment has its place, your utmost priority should always be to drive safely on the road and be aware of your surroundings, and that is where Scanner Radio comes into play. It has thousands of fires, police, air traffic, and marine radios from around the world, which can, at times, be much more helpful than relying on community feedback on apps like Waze.

Since the app features official radio scanners, it is highly likely that the information you’re getting here will be reliable and can help you effectively plan your journey, especially in a new terrain or area.

7. TuneIn Radio

Many people still love to listen to the radio while driving, and TuneIn Radio allows you to tune in (pun intended) to hundreds of radio stations. It’s not limited locally but spans across over 190 countries, allowing you to stay up-to-date on all news, sports, and music updates from around the globe.

TuneIn is generally simple to use; it integrates well into your car’s screen with larger, easy-to-touch buttons and can save your favorite stations as favorites too.

READ MORE: Best Budget Stereo Amplifiers – Top 5 Audiophile Picks ➜

Conclusion

While these apps are great for entertainment and road assistance, remember, the road itself demands your full attention. Drive safely and within legal limits, always trusting your own instincts above any app, as their accuracy can be unreliable at times.

The post The 7 Best Android Auto Apps of 2024 [Ultimate List] appeared first on Appuals.

Why Use Premium VPNs?

Internet is a complex place, and so are the dangers to your data with all sorts of cybersecurity threats. While VPNs, in general can greatly reduce the risk of being infiltrated by cybercriminals, there is a reason that premium VPNs cost money.

See, with the way a VPN works, it isn’t possible that nothing is logged at all. However, the end users are blind to the amount of data being collected at their end. While the primary purpose of using a VPN can be anything from bypassing a geofilter to maintaining privacy on the internet, a free VPN can only help you in achieving the first part, but at the expense of the latter.

1. Everything that is free doesn’t come without its caveats. Most free VPNs collect your data and sell it to data brokerage companies. This can include your browsing habits, search history, ISP and even unencrypted messages. This is partly how they make money, unlike paid VPNs where you’re essentially paying to use the service.
2. Free VPN services are often loaded with ads, most of which serve the purpose to lure you into buying their premium service. These can be incredibly frustrating to deal with, especially when you’re using a VPN frequently. Paid VPNs come with no adverts and have a much cleaner user-experience overall.
3. Multiple scandals, pertaining to free VPN services selling user data have emerged over the years, and so, it is important that you don’t risk your privacy at all.
4. A VPN can only function if its servers are online, and most free VPNs don’t have a decent server infrastructure, often leading to poor speeds and frequent disconnections. Premium VPNs can support up to 99% of server uptime most of the time.
5. Most free VPNs don’t offer dedicated customer support, however paid VPN services have the resources and capital available to facilitate a professional support service, which can be incredibly helpful if you ever run into a frustrating problem.
6. Premium VPNs can offer a better level of data encryption, primarily because they are being updated frequently to cater to the most recent security threats and cybercriminals.

READ MORE: What is the Difference Between a Proxy and VPN? ➜

1. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN makes it to the top of our list with a wide and diverse array of servers around the globe; 160 server locations in 105 countries, with fast and stable connection speeds. The company is clear on its internal practices, with multiple third-party independent security audits confirming the unmatched transparency in an otherwise opaque industry.

Although priced relatively higher than most competitors with a similar feature set, ExpressVPN offers subscription models of $12.95 per month, $59.95 for six months, and $99.95 per year. Unlike other services like TunnelBear, ExpressVPN doesn’t allow for a free version for you to test out its service.

ExpressVPN is evidently one of the more faster services available, with minimal speed loss, and more importantly, consistent connections across its servers. It uses the AES 256-bit encryption, with Perfect Forward Secrecy but doesn’t have the kill-switch functionality on Android.

On the privacy front, ExpressVPN makes it clear in its privacy policy that it doesn’t sell user data, nor does it log user activity, session duration, IP address or the VPN IP you connect to. The app interface on Android is pretty simple, easy-to-use and straightforward.

READ MORE: The 5 Best VPNs for Amazon Fire Stick in 2024 ➜

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is inarguably one of the most popular players in the VPN industry, going beyond what traditional VPNs tend to offer. It is fast, secure and reliable, however comes at a hefty price tag. Its Standard plan, which only includes the VPN and the malware protection starts at $12.99/month with $59.88 for the first year, followed by $99.48 for each year after.

The Plus plan comes with the NordPass password manager and data breach scanning, starting at $13.78/month, with $69.48 for the first year and then $126.96 for each year after. The highest, Complete tier comes with the NordLocker encryption tool and 1TB of encrypted cloud storage. It starts at $14.99/month, $83.88 for the first year and then $198.84 for each year after that.

With servers in over 60+ countries, Nord offers generous connection options, connecting to them using their proprietary WireGuard-based NordLynx protocol. The service’s multi-hop Double VPN routes your data through two VPN servers, encrypting your data twice.

Not only that, but Nord allows you to access The Onion Router (TOR) securely when your web traffic is redirected via a series of volunteer operated servers, going through a layer of encryption every time hops from a server. This allows the user to enter the Onion network (without using the Tor Browser), making it incredibly hard to identify where the traffic came from in the first place.

Other than that, it has a threat-protection feature baked in which promises to keep your browsing experience clean of ads and trackers, and as part of this monitors the dark-web for any data breaches. All in all, it’s a great choice, which an extensive feature-set and reliable connection and services.

READ MORE: NordVPN not Working on Windows? Try these fixes ➜

3. Surfshark

Surfshark is one of the more budget-friendly, but versatile options for long-term VPN subscribers, with minimal speed losses, and ideal for tasks like streaming. While it costs $12.95 per month, the long-terms plans are affordable, with the yearly package starting at $47.88, and moves up to $59.76 for each year after.

A two-year plan is also available for $59.76, but it then renews at the same price for each year after that. The service has over 3,200 servers in over 100 countries and is one of the better-performing VPNs of the lot and is proficient in unlocking geo-restrictions for services like Netflix and Amazon Prime.

While Surfshark’s vague privacy policy has come under light lately, numerous security audits have proved it to be a reliable choice. Nonetheless, despite its no-logging policy, multiple reports have surfaced stating that it does indeed record your IP. For an average user, this might not matter though.

Surfshark has privacy features like Camouflage and No-Borders mode that can help you bypass geofilters in restrictive countries. The Camouflage mode works by disguising your VPN traffic like normal traffic, which makes it harder to identify that you’re using a VPN. The No-Borders mode on the other hand automatically detects when you are in a restrictive country, and so it reduces your selection of servers to those designed to bypass those restrictions.

Other than that, it has a Kill-Switch, Split Tunnelling, MultiHop and Dynamic MultiHop in addition to a paid add-on for requesting a static IP. All in all, it’s a great, affordable option, though speeds and network stability lacks a bit behind the competition.

READ MORE: How to Install a VPN on a School Computer? ➜

4. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN makes it to our list, simply because it is inarguably the best free VPN, with a strong emphasis on security and reliability. Its paid plan comes in at $11.49 per month and $71.88 per year, which for the monthly plan is slightly cheaper than the likes of Express, Nord and Surfshark.

The Free plan however, doesn’t have any data restrictions and if you’re moving to the Paid version, the service offers MultiHop functionality in the form of SecureCore that routes your traffic through multiple servers, making it harder to track the original source.

Proton has a wide server channel, covering over 60 countries and a strict no-logs policy, which is confirmed by multiple security audits. As for performance, the speeds and stability is decent, with minor tradeoffs for latency if you plan on frequently using SecureCore.

The Android app for the service is relatively straightforward and easy to use with multiple features such as DNS Leak Protection, but Always-On VPN and Kill-Switch has to be manually enabled. Proton’s revamped black and purple interface makes it one of the more aesthetically pleasing services to use on Android.

READ MORE: How to Hide your IP Address? ➜

5. TunnelBear

TunnelBear VPN doesn’t stand out among the competition when it comes to the most advanced features on a VPN service. For one, it lacks multi-hop connection functionality and has a data limit on the Free version. The Ultimate version costs $9.99 per month and a decent $59.88 per year.

TunnelBear allows you to have unlimited simultaneous connections and has plenty of location spoofing features like GhostBear, that disguises your VPN browsing as normal traffic, or VigilantBear that is essentially the service’s Kill-Switch.

One of the bigger advantages of this service is that it doesn’t log user data, as proven by multiple annual security audits. TunnelBear is one of the more transparent services on this list, clear on it’s privacy policy on how it operates. However, the connection speeds lack behind the competition, but are okay for normal use case scenarios.

The app is designed as a nice, little geo-centric wonderland with available servers marked as tunnels with the bear emerging down on the connected location. Alternatively, the app has a drop-down menu to conveniently choose the server you want to connect to.

All in all, the app can serve as a great starting point for you if you’re looking to invest in a VPN service for the first time. It delivers most of the basic functionality, keeping it easy on your wallet.

READ MORE: How to Improve Online Gaming Experience using VPNs ➜

Which VPN Should You Actually Choose?

Deciding on the right VPN is a personal journey, reflecting your unique online habits and concerns. If speed and extensive server options are your priority, ExpressVPN is a robust choice. For those valuing cutting-edge security features, NordVPN offers advanced options like Double VPN and Onion Over VPN. Surfshark might catch the eye of the budget-conscious user seeking a balance between cost and functionality.

ProtonVPN stands out for those who lean towards stringent security measures, offering a strong emphasis on user privacy. Meanwhile, TunnelBear‘s user-friendly approach and commitment to transparency make it an excellent option for VPN beginners or those favoring simplicity.

READ MORE: The Best VPN For Streaming and Gaming ➜

Conclusion

While it is not advisable to regularly rely on a free VPN service, most premium options vary based on the consumer market they aim to target. Regardless, all of them are committed to maintaining privacy while being transparent about their working practices, and it is up to the users to decide which service suits them based on their use-case scenarios and budget.

The post The 5 Best Premium VPN Apps on Android in 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

But with such attention to music on phones, it can be overwhelming sometimes to pick from a plethora of apps on the Play Store. Therefore, we have put together a guide for some of the best media players currently available on Android.

1. Spotify

Spotify, the largest, most popular music streaming platform has the biggest catalog of songs from artists around the world, but what makes it great is its algorithmic prowess. The service has the smartest, most flexible recommendation algorithm of any music player.

With millions of users and a catalog of over 100 million songs in its database, Spotify has slowly fine-tuned what users may want to listen to, purely based on their listening habits, which includes tracks that they like, share, save or skip. For instance, Spotify has these proprietary set of playlists such as “Discover Weekly” and “Release Radar,” which update every Monday and Friday, respectively.

Spotify reads the type of music you usually listen to and serves similar suggestions into these playlists. Discover Weekly blends your past favorites with deeper cuts from familiar artists and new ones that you might enjoy. Release Radar updates weekly with new songs from artists you usually listen to, and newer ones with the same feel for what you’re used to, or Spotify thinks you might like.

As for the user interface, it is oddly clean and snappy, with clear categorization of everything you might need in the app. It allows you to save an unlimited number of songs into your personal library and create playlists with up to 10,000 titles. Other than that, you have the option to enable social sharing to see what your friends have been listening to and to create sessions where a group streams the same playlist simultaneously.

READ MORE: What is the Spotify Iceberg? How to Easily Create One [2024] ➜

2. AIMP

For listening to music locally, AIMP could be an ideal choice. It is one of the oldest players on the list and has a decent interface with plenty of customization options and theming. Other than that, it supports all of the common music file extensions like MP3, MP4 and FLAC.

One of the downsides to this is that it doesn’t have a full-fledge music library, however it is great for playing a few tracks in folders. It gives you quick access to all of your playlists, right from the hamburger menu, and has support for a 29-band equalizer.

Moreover, you can change the music output to “mono” or “stereo,” and have the ability to adjust the cross-fade time between tracks manually. Other than that, if you’re bored and don’t want to listen to the same stuff over and over, AIMP supports online radio too. All in all, it is a simple, and decent app for listening to music locally without any distractions.

3. Neutron Music Player

The Neutron Music Player is as good as it gets for audiophile-level quality on Android. The app is one of the most popular music players, with its own 32/64-bit Hi-Res audio engine that is independent of the Android music player API.

The app supports all audio formats, including the more uncommon ones like WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF and MPC, with support for up to 5.1 surround. Other than that, Neutron has a 60-band parametric equalizer, alongside a 21-preset graphic equalizer.

On the interface side, it has its drawbacks, and for some, it may not be the easiest to use. However, for audiophiles, it offers a lot more. While listening to music, the app shows real-time spectrums, waveforms, and RTS analyzers. You can save your settings to multiple profiles, and the media library can even organize your songs by album, artist, composer, genre, year, rating, or folder.

All in all, Neutron Music Player is considered as the best when it comes to pure audio quality. Of course, you would need to connect your phone to an external set of speakers or an ideal pair of headphones to truly hear the subtle differences.

READ MORE: How to Extract The Audio From Any Video – Guide For All Devices ➜

4. Musicolet

Musicolet is a “small yet feature rich” music player that focuses on delivering the pure offline experience, with a refreshing UI. The interface isn’t cluttered, and for an app that is as lightweight and has a small APK size like this, it offers a lot more.

Musicolet features multiple queues with a separate one for each folder, album, artist or playlist and supports different equalizer serttings for each of your output device. You can have a different sound setting for you mobile speakers, a separate one for your headphones and even your car. It also supports Android Auto.

Other than that, it can create synchronized lyrics for any song and even supports exrternal .lrc files. Even with minimal customization options, it supports light and dark themes and has a decent widget, and lock-screen controls. You can even add any album as a shortcut to your home screen for easier access.

All in all, it is a great, compact app that has been tried and tested by many around the globe, and it offers all you need, and nothing that you don’t.

5. PowerAMP

PowerAMP, one of the oldest and most popular music players on the Play Store, makes it to our list simply because it checks most of the boxes and gets a lot of the basics right. The interface is snappy, modern, minimal, and somewhat similar to Spotify.

While most people nowadays have switched to streaming services like Apple Music or Spotify, for those who are serious about offline listening, PowerAMP is the go-to app. It supports Android Auto, Chromecast, and even Google Assistant, filling in the gap left by Play Music.

On top of that, one of the elements that sets it apart from the competition is its immense focus on aesthetics. It allows you to download third-party themes from the Google Play Store and add elements to your player UI, such as a track counter and the Chromecast button. And that’s just scraping the surface. There’s a lot more to explore once you dig in deep.

On the audio side of things, it is great for casual audiophiles, has support for most audio formats, supports lossless audio and uses a proprietary audio decoder, which makes it better than most of the other music players. It features gapless playback, replay gain, cross-fade, a built-in tag editor and a 10-band digital equalizer. All in all, it is a great app if you want an ideal listening experience with a decent user interface.

READ MORE: 8 of the Best Unblocked Music Apps and Websites [Guide]

6. PlayerPro

PlayerPro, widely recognized for its retro, 90s interface, stands as one of the oldest entries on this list. It supports Hi-Res audio with up to 32-bit/364kHz capabilities and a number of customization options. The app is also compatible with Android Auto, Chromecast and Google Assistant.

PlayerPro not only supports audio playback but also includes music videos. It features a 5-band equalizer with 15 default presets and a 10-band equalizer with 20 default presets. Other than that, it includes an audio limiter, replay gain, pre-amp control, mono output, and more.

It also serves you with five different home screen and two separate lock-screen widgets along with the ability to backup your playlists to Google Drive. Interestingly, it also supports gesture control, which can be incredibly in certain situations.

7. YouTube Music

With its close integration with the YouTube platform, YT Music is undeniably the only service in this list with the largest library of music, even including content not available on other platforms. It is the only service in the list that features music from the community members who have uploaded it on YouTube.

While audiophiles might criticize the app for its lack of top-tier audio quality, it is great for general listening. Its well-organized interface seamlessly imports and recommends music based on your YouTube watch history. You can like, share, and save any song, and with YouTube Premium, enjoy ad-free listening with the option to download songs for offline playback.

The new Samples tab, strangely similar to TikTok, features vertical-format music that autoplays and requires swiping up or down to change tracks. Other than that, this is arguably the best app for consuming and viewing music videos too.

READ MORE: Guide: Download Music from YouTube on Mobile & PC [2024] ➜

Conclusion

The Google Play Store offers an enormous collection of music players, each with its own distinct and unique identity. Even while researching for this article, narrowing down the choices was challenging, but despite their differences, most players effectively serve their purpose well and cater to specific audience needs.

The post The 7 Best Music Player Apps for Android in 2024 [Detailed List] appeared first on Appuals.

But sometimes, you might need a secret recording, like for proof in complicated situations. Don’t worry, though. This guide will show you several ways to record calls on your Android phone without alerting the other person. We’ll also cover Google’s call recording rules and the legal side of recording phone conversations.

Google’s call recording policy for Android phones

Google has some strict rules about recording calls on Android phones. If you’re using the Google Dialer, which comes with most new phones, it tells the other person, “This call is now being recorded.” This makes it hard to record calls without the other person knowing.

When Android 9 came out, Google made it even tougher for apps to record calls. These apps could still run, but you’d only hear your side of the conversation or sometimes nothing. Then, with Android 10, Google blocked these apps from recording calls using the phone’s microphone.

App developers tried to work around this by using Android’s Accessibility Service, which helps with different tasks on your phone. But in April 2022, Google changed its rules again. Now, apps in the Google Play Store can’t use the Accessibility Service to record calls.

The type of Android on your phone matters, too. If your phone has Android 9 or an older version, you can still record calls without facing these new limits. But on Android 10 or newer phones, using the Accessibility Service to record calls might not work because of Google’s updated rules.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Guide to Recording WhatsApp Calls on Any Device ➜

Record calls on Android without anyone knowing

Recording calls on your Android phone without letting the other person know can be a privacy issue, and it might even be against the law in some places.

If recording calls secretly is illegal where you live, and the law needs you to have verbal permission, you shouldn’t try to record calls without the other person’s knowledge. If it’s not against the law in your area, here are some ways you can record a call on your Android phone without anyone knowing:

1. Use third-party dialer

If your phone’s normal dialer doesn’t let you record calls secretly, try a different dialer app. These apps have their own features, and some let you turn off the alert that tells the other person they’re being recorded.

You can find many of these apps in the Google Play Store. Some good ones are:

• ACR Phone
• Phone Dialer & Contacts: drupe
• Truecaller

These apps give you more control over recording calls without obvious alerts. After downloading one of these apps, you must make it your default dialer app. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to “Settings” on your phone, scroll down, and tap “Apps.”
   

   

2. Find and open the dialer or recording app you got from the Play Store.
   

   

3. Tap on “Set as default” under the Default option.
   

   

2. Disable recording alert

If you’re using the Google Dialer, it normally tells the other person, “This call is now being recorded,” when you start recording. But you can turn off this alert in the Google Dialer by following these steps:

1. Go to the Google Play Store, look for the TTSLexx app, and install it.
   

   

2. Open the TTSLexx app and tap on “Preferred engine.”
   

   

3. Choose “TTSLexx” from the options.
   

   

4. A prompt will pop up for confirmation; select “OK.”
   

   

5. Then, go back to your home screen. Press and hold the Google Dialer app and tap “i “to see the app info.
   

   

6. Scroll down and choose “Storage.”
   

   

7. Then tap “Clear cache” and “Clear data.”
   

   

Doing this will stop the alert that normally plays when you use the call recording feature.

3. Record calls using the manufacturer’s dialer app

Many phone brands, like Samsung, Vivo, IQOO, and Asus Zenfone, still offer dialer apps that let you record calls. These apps often don’t have the alert that tells the other person the call is being recorded.

For example, on Realme phones, you can switch from Google Dialer to Realme’s phone app for easy call recording without alerts. OnePlus phones like the OnePlus 9, 9R, 9 Pro, Nord, and OnePlus 8T can use a special OnePlus Dialer to avoid recording warnings.

You can use the ODialer app from the Play Store if you have an Oppo phone. Samsung, Vivo, and IQOO users can record calls using their pre-installed dialer apps without any warnings. If you’re not sure if your dialer app is from Google or your phone’s manufacturer, here’s how to check:

1. Press and hold the dialer app icon and select the “App info” icon.
   

   

2. Scroll down on the app info page and choose “App details in store.”
   

   

This will take you to the dialer app’s page on the Play Store, where you can see who made the app under its name.

4. Use screen recording

You can also record calls on your Android phone by using the screen recording feature. This is a simple way to record voice and video calls without the other person knowing. Many new smartphones have a screen recording tool that records everything on your phone’s screen.

To secretly record calls, turn on the screen recording and ensure the microphone is on. This will record both sides of the conversation during your calls.

But remember, for the recording to catch the voice clearly, you need to turn on the speaker function on your phone before you start screen recording. You can record your calls quietly without extra apps or clear notifications.

READ MORE: What is Voice Phishing & How to Avoid Voice Phishing in 2024 ➜

5. Use secondary device

Using a second device is a simple way to record calls on your Android phone without alerting anyone. This might sound simple, but it’s effective. Not everyone indeed has an extra device just for recording calls.

You can use your computer or laptop for this, too. Download a voice recording app on your second device, like your PC or laptop. Then, you can easily record the calls using this app.

The legality of recording phone conversations

The legality of recording a phone call varies based on your location. In the United States, federal law and the laws of most states permit recording a phone conversation if at least one involved party consents. This means you can legally record a call if you’re participating in it.

States usually have one of two types of laws:

• Unilateral consent: This means you only need permission from one person in the conversation to record it.
• Bilateral consent: In this case, both people in the call must agree to the recording. This is also called the All Parties Consent Law because it requires agreement from everyone in the conversation.

There are 11 states with more stringent requirements, necessitating consent from all parties involved. These states are California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

It’s important to note that other countries have their own specific laws regarding call recording. To ensure full legal compliance, obtaining permission from the other person before starting to record is safest.

READ MORE: Apple’s Claim of “Privacy. That’s iPhone” Might Not Really Be True ➜

Final Thoughts

Recording calls on Android without anyone knowing or warning can be done through various methods. Whether it’s using a third-party dialer app, disabling recording alerts, utilizing the manufacturer’s dialer, screen recording, or even using a secondary device, each method offers a unique way to capture conversations.

Remembering the legal implications of recording calls without consent is crucial, especially in the U.S., where laws vary by state. By being informed and choosing the right method for your needs, you can effectively record calls while respecting privacy and legal boundaries.

The post How to Record Calls on Android Without Anyone Knowing appeared first on Appuals.

As these apps are tied to your phone’s carrier services, blocking these notifications can be difficult. They often get reinstalled with each carrier update on your phone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through four straightforward solutions to permanently stop these push notifications.

1. Disable CarrierHub and AppHub Notifications

A simple solution is to disable the notifications for both CarrierHub and AppHub. Although the apps will continue running in the background, you won’t be bothered by their push notifications.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap the Notifications option.

   

3. Select App Notifications.

   

4. Find and select CarrierHub and AppHub.
5. Toggle off the blue indicator to disable notifications for these apps.

   

Please be aware that these notifications may reappear when your phone’s software is updated. Carrier updates can reset the app settings, which may re-enable the notifications.

2. Clear CarrierHub and AppHub Data and Cache

Sometimes, ‘Requests are processing’ notifications are caused by accumulated erroneous or outdated data within the CarrierHub and AppHub apps. To fix the issue, you can clear the cache and data for these apps, effectively resetting them to their factory settings and resolving any internal problems.

1. Navigate to the Settings app and tap on Apps.

   

2. Find CarrierHub in the list of apps.
3. Tap on the app and select Storage.

   

4. Hit Clear Cache and Clear Data.
5. When prompted for confirmation, choose Delete.

   

6. Repeat the process for AppHub.

3. Uninstall These Apps

If you continue receiving notifications, consider uninstalling these apps. While this solution is temporary—because the apps could be reinstalled during the next carrier update—it can immediately solve the issue.

1. Swipe up from your home screen to access the apps screen.
2. Long-press the CarrierHub app icon.
3. Select Uninstall.

   

4. Repeat these steps to uninstall AppHub as well.

Note: The option to uninstall these apps may be disabled in your phone’s software. If that’s the case, you can refer to our guide on using the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to uninstall the apps.

4. Contact Your Phone Carrier for Support

If none of the above solutions work and you keep receiving notifications from CarrierHub or AppHub, contacting your phone carrier can be your next course of action. They should be able to provide you with assistance in permanently blocking these notifications.

The post How to Stop ‘Requests are Processing’ Notifications on Samsung Phones appeared first on Appuals.