App News Today — September 25, 2026

The world of apps and AI is moving at a breakneck pace, with significant developments emerging on multiple fronts. On one hand, alternative app stores like F-Droid are pushing back against the restrictive policies of dominant players like Google, with F-Droid recently rolling out its biggest update in a decade, featuring a new UI and streamlined app installations. This move not only refreshes the platform but also underscores the growing demand for more open and flexible app ecosystems.

Meanwhile, the intersection of AI, agents, and consumer tech is heating up, as evidenced by Meta's Muse Charm, a device that taps into the trend of AI-powered companions. The success of companies like Lovable, with its annualized revenue now exceeding $600M, further validates the excitement around vibe coding and AI-driven innovations. However, concerns around the darker side of these trends also persist, as seen in reports of Meta ads leading Polish Android users into premium-rate billing traps. As the app and AI landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about these developments and their implications will be crucial for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve.

Today's signal:
• F-Droid app store thumbs its nose at Google's dev crackdown (theregister.com)
• F-Droid gets its biggest update in a decade with new UI and smoother app installs (arstechnica.com)
• Meta’s Muse Charm looks like a Tamagotchi, but it’s tapping into a much newer trend (techcrunch.com)
• Lovable’s annualized revenue crosses $600M as vibe coding takes off (techcrunch.com)
• 2 days left to save up to $200 on a TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 pass — reason 4 of 5 to attend (techcrunch.com)
• Meta ads steered Polish Android users into a premium-rate billing trap (theregister.com)