It is important to realize that none of the portable device apps. are FAA approved, for anything else other than Static charts, and only if the users verify and confirm the accuracy of the version being used.
The CDI / VDI displays were altered in size when some users requested it because on some older devices were perceived to be too small. The size is dependent on the device's resolution / screen size ratio, but in most units does look too large. The transparency, and the size, can be altered if you are willing to do your own compile, with some very easy code change. GPS data is used to get information and can be inaccurate at times. The Source can be found here:
https://github.com/apps4av/avare
For the Flight Plan, if you can post the exact steps you are using to create it, it will help if you note the location you are in, if GPS is On and position acquired.
Try to position yourself at an airport, your starting / first waypoint, before you create / Activate your Flight Plan. You can use Avare IO GPS simulation and or others like MSFSX or XPlane via Avare IO interface and see if you are getting different results. It is likely that what you are seeing in the direction to the first waypoint is the heading from where you are presently located. Avare tries to give you a heading / direction from you presently are, and connect you to your Flight plan, when activated. Yo can work around that by using the Simulation mode. Post here with follow up.
My suggestion is to try to use the apps in the same mode as if you are actually flying, at the airport location, or simulate your actual location, and Not from your present / home? location. The Navigate / Simulation mode can help, but to really test it try to do it when you are at your Real starting point.