YouTube TV announced, Google Assistant coming to many, Windows Malware - Android Apps Weekly
**Android Apps Weekly Episode 181: Top News and Updates**
Hello again, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome back to Android Apps Weekly, where we bring you the latest news and updates from the world of Android. This is episode number 181, and we’re diving into some exciting announcements and developments in the Android ecosystem.
---
### **Nokia 3310 Remake with Snake Game**
One of the bigger announcements at NWC 2017 was the Nokia 3310, a remake of the iconic phone that’s famous for all those memes. Alongside its retro design, this new version comes with a revamped version of the popular Snake game. The best part? You don’t even need to buy the 3310 to play it. Facebook Messenger has the game built right into its application, allowing you to enjoy it anytime and anywhere. Simply launch the app, tap on the controller icon, find the game, and start playing. We thought that was pretty cool!
---
### **Google Assistant Coming to Marshmallow and Nougat Devices**
In a significant update, Google announced that Google Assistant is now coming to all devices running Marshmallow and Nougat. The good news for users is that you won’t have to wait long—this update will be rolling out through Google Play services. The first stage of the rollout is already happening in the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, with other countries and languages following later this year.
---
### **132 Android Apps Found With Windows Malware**
Researchers have uncovered 132 Android apps that are carrying Windows malware. What makes this interesting is that Windows malware can’t harm an Android device—it’s essentially useless on the platform. However, it gets even weirder: the developers of these apps had no idea that the malware was present. The malware works by finding HTML pages and injecting itself into them automatically, even if they’re part of an Android app. This means the malware was already on the developers’ computers when they created the applications. As a result, these apps are no longer available for download.
---
### **Niantic Announces Major Updates for Pokémon GO**
Niantic made big announcements regarding Pokémon GO in 2017. The future updates will bring more Pokémon, new gameplay features, and a lot more content to fans. Confirmed gameplay features include trading Pokémon, PVP combat, a new gym battle system, and smaller additions. These updates are expected to roll out over the course of this year. Additionally, Niantic announced a revamp for Ingress at Mobile World Congress 2017, which should be exciting for fans of their games.
---
### **Google Announces YouTube TV**
This week, Google officially announced YouTube TV, which is similar to services like Sling TV, PlayStation View, or Direct TV Now. It includes access to dozens of cable channels, local sports networks, and more. One standout feature is the cloud-based DVR with unlimited storage, which we think is freaking awesome. Users will also have access to YouTube Red original content through the app. Additionally, Google revealed that people watch over 1 billion hours of videos per day on YouTube—a staggering number!
---
### **Unhappy Ever After: A Retro RPG Adventure**
Originally a Kickstarter project that was successfully funded, *Unhappy Ever After* is now available on Android. This retro-style RPG offers a decent storyline and a partially open world to explore, complete with adult themes, dungeons, and more. Developers boast over 20 hours of content, and there’s even a night and day system that affects certain gameplay elements. However, be warned—this game isn’t suitable for kids. The demo version is free to try, while the full version costs $249.
---
### **Pixar: Customization App for Navigation Keys**
If you’re looking to customize your phone’s navigation keys to look like those on the Google Pixel, check out *Pixar*. This app allows you to position and apply graphics to mimic the Pixel’s iconic buttons. It works without root and is designed for phones running stock Android. The app is compatible with Android Lollipop and later versions. Future updates are expected to support some OEM skins as well. You can pick up *Pixar* for just 99 cents.
---
### **Frost Rune: A First-Person Adventure Game**
For fans of Viking mythology, *Frost Rune* is a first-person adventure game that also features point-and-click mechanics. The storyline follows Norse culture and Viking mythology, with hand-painted artwork and various puzzles to solve. Each puzzle you complete brings you one step closer to the end of the game. If you enjoy storytelling-focused games, this could be a great option for you. *Frost Rune* is available for $4.99 and has no in-app purchases.
---
### **Energy Bar: Customization App for Battery Status**
If you’re looking to customize your phone’s status bar, *Energy Bar* puts a battery meter right above it. The bar shortens as your battery drains, giving you a visual representation of how much charge you have left. The pro version allows you to completely replace your status bar with the battery meter and offers customization options for colors, thickness, and charging animations. The free version is available for testing, but you’ll need to pay $1.99 to unlock all features.
---
### **The Escapists: A Retro Sandbox Game**
Originally released on PC, *The Escapists* has officially been ported to Android this week. The game follows your main character who has been thrown into prison, and your goal is to figure out a way to break out. You’ll be able to do things like show up for roll call, hide contraband, and avoid suspicion until it’s time to make your escape. Combined with retro graphics, this game is an instant classic. It’s available for $3.99 with no in-app purchases.
---
### **More Android News in This Week's Newsletter**
For even more Android apps and games news, releases, and updates, don’t forget to check out this week’s newsletter. Linked in the video description below, you’ll find a bunch of stuff we didn’t have space for here—such as Mozilla buying Pocket, the end of Google Spaces, and a new thing from Kronos. Sign up using the form or written companion linked in the description to get the newsletter straight to your inbox every Sunday.
---
### **Stay Updated with Android Authority**
As always, thank you for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to Android Authority and ring the bell to get the latest Android videos as soon as we release them. There’s plenty of awesome stuff linked up on the screen and in the video description below for you to check out. For even faster updates, download the Android Authority app today.
That about does it for this one, folks! Have a wonderful day!