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Just in time for your holiday break, Angry Birds 2 has been updated with new levels and a new arena competition where you can play other players from around the world.  The team at Rovio who develop the game are saying that this is the biggest update to the game so far and based on the release notes and a bit of game play this morning, I believe it.  There are a huge number of improvements and changes to the app along with the new player vs player arena.

Like in the previous versions, when you tap on the arena you have your nest of birds and you try to clear as many levels as possible before you run out of birds.  It use to be that you would simply see your score and the scores of other players on the scoreboard but now you are pitted against another player to see if you can beat their score.  Add to that the ability to collect stars which allow you to level up your birds and other rewards, it has really changed how you play in the arena – and for the better in my opinion.

Part of this update in the area and throughout the game is a new Star Ranks where you earn starts in campaigns and tournaments.  This allows you to upgrade your birds and get other rewards in the game.

That’s really only the beginning of this update to Angry Birds 2

In the latest update to their Android app, Netflix has brought users a unique but handy feature.  If you need support with the app or your service, you can talk to a support representative directly from within the app.  No more switching to your phone app or calling on another phone to get help.  It is something that Netflix teased back in October as a way to differentiate their support over other streaming media services.  Given the somewhat lackluster support that many apps seemingly have today, it is good to see at least one take customer service seriously enough to make it easy for you to make a phone call to them.

Netflix for Android – Free (In-App Purchases) – Download Now

Google Now on Tap continues to evolve and the latest update to the contextual information feature has had a new feature added:  Screen sharing.  The update comes courtesy of an update to the Google Search app for Android, taking that app (and the engine behind Now on Tap) to version 5.7.14.19 for those keeping score at home.  That build and this feature is specifically designed for Android Marshmallow so if that hasn’t hit your phone or tablet yet, you won’t see the feature.

Essentially what this update does it take a screen capture of whatever you are viewing on your screen.  While you can capture your screen using the combination of the Power+Volume Down key, having this just a couple of screen taps away will make it easier and faster for many users.  It has been in beta for a week or so now and there have been several posts that it is coming but now it has rolled out to the Google Play Store and is widely available.

If you are an Android user then you probably already know about the Androidify app.  For those new to the platform or if you haven’t heard of it, the Androidify app allows you to build your own Android character that is befitting to you. Think of it as your Android avatar where you can change the character to a more fitting version of you to share with others.  To the right you can see mine

Clinton Androidify Character

it all its glory.

With the holiday season upon us, Google has released an update to the app that allows you to add some festive cheer to your character.  Through the additions of accessories and of course a very ugly holiday sweater, you can get your Android character ready for the holidays.

The update has brought several new things like sweaters, hockey skates, ski goggles, Google Cardboard, a new stocking hat, a new leave scarf, a hot cocoa accessory to hold and of course the new Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P and a Chromebook to hold.  This isn’t the whole list, there are a lot more, so get the app and explore it while having some fun.  So yes, you can make a very personal, it’s-like-me character or you can make your alter ego.  Either way, it’s a bit of fun.