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Centre's SIM binding directive on app-based messaging platforms 'unconstitutional': Tech industry body BIF
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Centre’s SIM binding directive on app-based messaging platforms ‘unconstitutional’: Tech industry body BIF

The Broadband India Forum (BIF) has expressed legal concerns about the government's SIM binding mandate, stating it is "ultra vires the parent legislation" and "unconstitutional," based on a senior counsel's opinion. This opinion critiques the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Amendment Rules, 2025, claiming they exceed the authority of the Telecommunications Act of 2023. The government's directive requires app-based communication services to maintain a link to a user's active SIM card, which BIF argues violates principles of due process and proportionality. BIF also highlights that the introduction of Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs) alters the scope of telecom regulation improperly, potentially leading to legal conflicts with existing laws like the Information Technology Act. BIF concludes that the amendment rules represent an impermissible expansion of delegated authority under the Telecom Act, advocating for adherence to the statutory framework. The government's directive, aimed at addressing cyber security concerns, would change how users access messaging services in India.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

‘Console Is Where They Want to Be’ — Reports Indicate Sony Is ‘Pulling Away’ From PC for Single-Player PlayStation Games

Sony is shifting its focus away from the PC market for single-player PlayStation games, emphasizing console exclusivity instead. Industry insiders, including Bloomberg's Jason Schreier and Digital Foundry's John Linneman, indicate that exclusive single-player titles may not be released on PC, with Schreier citing the upcoming Wolverine game as a potential example. He noted that Sony has not seen significant commercial success with its single-player titles on PC. While live service games will continue to be released on both platforms, the overall strategy appears to be leaning towards console-centric development. Upcoming titles like Bungie's Marathon and Guerrilla's Horizon multiplayer spinoff will launch simultaneously on PC and consoles. Additionally, there are concerns about potential delays in the launch of the PlayStation 6, possibly pushing it back to 2028 or 2029 due to chip market challenges. Sony recently closed Bluepoint Games, known for remakes, while continuing to operate Nixxes Software, a studio specializing in PC ports.
Balatro meets Scrabble in this new roguelike from the creators of TimeSplitters—and I'm just thrilled to finally find a word game that lets me score with swear words
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Balatro meets Scrabble in this new roguelike from the creators of TimeSplitters—and I’m just thrilled to finally find a word game that lets me score with swear words

Renowned game developers Steve Ellis and David Doak have created a spelling game called Beyond Words, which features innovative gameplay mechanics that differentiate it from other word game roguelikes. Players navigate a Scrabble-like board aiming for a target score within a limited number of moves, with progressively challenging rounds and a boss round introducing unique gameplay modifiers. Between rounds, players can acquire cards that activate bonuses to enhance scoring potential. The game boasts an expansive dictionary that includes a wide array of terms, adding humor and enjoyment. It includes wildcard tiles for creative word formation and features uniquely shaped maps for each run, enhancing strategic depth. However, the visual presentation has been criticized for lacking a cohesive style. The demo is currently available for free during Steam NextFest.
If you love Marathon's vectorheart style but not its PvP, get your aesthetic fix from the gorgeously overstimulating demo for this time trial FPS instead
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

If you love Marathon’s vectorheart style but not its PvP, get your aesthetic fix from the gorgeously overstimulating demo for this time trial FPS instead

Anticipation surrounds the game Marathon, noted for its vectorheart-inspired art style. Cicadamata, a new game, features a bold visual design with animated text and a sense of urgency. Players control Fawn-A2, navigating the Cascade and acquiring cores while using a cybershotgun. Gameplay includes mastering moves like triple jumps and air dashes, with intricate shooter maps and immersive audio-visual elements. The game is fast-paced, presenting challenges that some may find difficult but rewarding. Cicadamata's demo is available on Steam until March 5, with the full game expected to launch later this year.
In a sea of needlessly long videogames, Resident Evil Requiem proves that 10 hours is all you need if you're able to make every second count
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

In a sea of needlessly long videogames, Resident Evil Requiem proves that 10 hours is all you need if you’re able to make every second count

Resident Evil Requiem features Leon S. Kennedy and offers a complete narrative experience lasting approximately 10 hours. The game includes puzzles, horror, and action, maintaining a quality experience without filler content. It has a dual-protagonist system, allowing players to alternate between Grace and Leon, enhancing gameplay variety. The game is praised for its storytelling, level design, and combat mechanics, with a smooth pacing that keeps players engaged. The initial playthrough can lead to immersive sessions lasting several hours, and players may be motivated to explore the game further or attempt speedruns.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Best Marathon settings for peak gaming PC performance

Bungie's multiplayer FPS, Marathon, is currently in an early Server Slam until March 2, with a full release on March 6. The game is designed to be accessible on mid-range PCs and does not require high-end GPU power. Initial settings for optimal performance include Vsync on, frame rate cap off, field of view at 90°, and high graphics quality. Players can expect an average frame rate of 84fps with 60fps for 1% lows. The game is not compatible with the Steam Deck due to BattleEye anti-cheat technology but runs smoothly on other Windows-based handheld devices. While an SSD is not required, it is recommended for better load times. Performance monitoring can be done via a built-in FPS counter or overlays from Nvidia and AMD.
We polled PC gamers on how much generative AI is acceptable in games, and here’s what they said
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

We polled PC gamers on how much generative AI is acceptable in games, and here’s what they said

Generative AI is increasingly integrated into video game development, with applications ranging from art assets to gameplay mechanics. A poll of approximately 1,000 respondents revealed that over 40% prefer traditional game development with no AI involvement. More than half of participants are open to generative AI to varying degrees: 20% oppose its inclusion in final products but accept its use as a productivity tool, while 21% approve of some AI involvement if disclosed. Additionally, 14% would engage with heavily AI-utilized games if enjoyable. Concerns about AI-generated code have been raised by developers, particularly regarding its quality. Despite skepticism, there is agreement on the benefits of AI-accelerated rendering techniques for performance improvements.
Betty Bingo is the new Balatro-like to top my Steam Library with its wacky items and mesmerising Mega Bingo chains
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Betty Bingo is the new Balatro-like to top my Steam Library with its wacky items and mesmerising Mega Bingo chains

The author has a strong enthusiasm for bingo, which they attribute to the game's repetitive nature, pattern recognition, and vibrant colors. They tried a demo of Bingo Betty, a bingo roguelike game that consists of seven stages with four rounds each, culminating in a final boss challenge. Players draw three balls at a time and must strategically place one ball to create a straight line. Special draws, like the Meat Ball and Shuffle Ball, add complexity to the gameplay. The game features a shop with items to enhance gameplay, and the author scored 10,884 in their first round and a highest score of 170,646 in a single round. They emphasize the game's engaging nature but advise moderation in gameplay.
PC Gamers Save $20 In Double Free Game Giveaway, Yours to Keep
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

PC Gamers Save $20 In Double Free Game Giveaway, Yours to Keep

PC gamers can claim two free games, Boxes: Lost Fragments and My Night Job, from the Epic Games Store. Players need to download the Epic Games Store launcher to access these titles at no cost. Boxes: Lost Fragments is a puzzle game set to release on February 1, 2024, while My Night Job is an action-packed beat 'em up game that debuted in April 2016. Both games have received a “Very Positive” rating on Steam. The free offer is available until March 5, 2026.
Is Marathon's time-to-kill too fast, or am I too Arc Raiders-pilled?
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Is Marathon’s time-to-kill too fast, or am I too Arc Raiders-pilled?

The author completed the original Mass Effect and shifted focus to extraction shooters, particularly Marathon, influenced by experiences in Arc Raiders. During the first 24 hours with Marathon, the author compared it to Arc Raiders, noting the challenging gameplay dynamics, including a fast time-to-kill (TTK) and the importance of teamwork. Initial frustrations with Marathon's pace shifted to appreciation as the author adapted strategies with friends. The game emphasizes sound and teamwork, with a TTK that feels punishing but manageable with squad support. The author reflected on the need for better resource management, expressing concerns about inventory issues and the early loss of loadouts. They suggested that Bungie should streamline gameplay to enhance the PvP experience.
Zootopia 2 becomes 2025 s highest grossing US release with 424m surpassing A Minecraft Movie
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Zootopia 2 becomes 2025 s highest grossing US release with 424m surpassing A Minecraft Movie

Zootopia 2 has become the highest-grossing domestic release of 2025, earning 4.2 million in the United States and Canada, surpassing A Minecraft Movie's 4.08 million. Internationally, it has grossed .425 billion, bringing its global total to .85 billion. The film debuted ahead of Thanksgiving, generating 8 million in North America and 9 million globally over the holiday period, marking the second-largest Thanksgiving launch and the biggest debut for an animated film. It became the fastest PG-rated film to reach the billion milestone worldwide in just 17 days and is now Hollywood’s highest-grossing animated film of all time. Zootopia 2 has also overtaken Avengers: Endgame as the biggest Motion Picture Association title in China and is the eighth-highest-grossing film in global box office history. The film is directed by Jared Bush and Byron Howard and features characters Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Disney's strong box office performance has been bolstered by additional billion-dollar releases, leading to the company's strongest annual sales since before the pandemic.
Pokémon Pokopia reveals DJ Rotom, cooking mechanic, and Minecraft-like structures
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Pokémon Pokopia reveals DJ Rotom, cooking mechanic, and Minecraft-like structures

The Pokémon Company announced Pokémon Pokopia, a life simulation game set to launch on March 5, 2026, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. The game features gameplay elements similar to Minecraft and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, including survival mechanics, a hunger system, and cooking with the Greedent Chef Dente. Players will encounter new Pokémon, including Raikou, and can participate in online multiplayer sessions with teams of four, engaging in base-building and exploring dungeons. The game also introduces a new Rotom form that plays music and includes Prop Hunt-like modes.
'So big, it's basically a Start screen again': Windows 11's new Start menu is getting some hate — and triggering Windows 8 flashbacks
Winsage
February 28, 2026

‘So big, it’s basically a Start screen again’: Windows 11’s new Start menu is getting some hate — and triggering Windows 8 flashbacks

Windows 11's Start menu has elicited mixed reactions from users, with some dissatisfied with the redesign and others appreciating it. A Reddit discussion highlighted that some users feel the new Start menu resembles the full-screen version from Windows 8, which was unpopular. The perception of the Start menu's size varies based on screen size and resolution, with larger screens displaying an 8-column layout that has received complaints, while smaller screens show a 6-column version that users find more satisfactory. There are workarounds for those unhappy with the larger interface. Users also express frustration over the lack of customization options, particularly regarding the automated categorization of apps, which often misclassifies PC gaming applications. However, the removal of the section displaying Microsoft's 'recommendations' has been positively received, as it provides a cleaner look.
Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7934 (Beta Channel)
Winsage
February 27, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7934 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7934 (KB5077242) has been released to the Beta Channel. Key updates include: - Enhanced security and performance for batch files with a new secure mode that ensures batch files remain unchanged during execution, improving performance and security. - Shared audio feature now includes individual volume sliders for each listener and a taskbar indicator for ongoing audio sharing sessions. - A new command for Narrator users allows reading the status bar contents in applications like Word and Excel. - The rollout of improved taskbar animations has been temporarily paused. - Reliability improvements for removing Windows Update files and windows.old files. - Enhanced typing reliability with the ADLaM keyboard. - The Paint app has introduced a freeform rotate feature for shapes, text, and selections. Insiders can access these updates through Settings > Windows Update, and features may be gradually rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology. A desktop watermark is displayed for Windows Insider pre-release builds.
Facebook designed an app for teens called Bell but never launched it, court records reveal
AppWizard
February 27, 2026

Facebook designed an app for teens called Bell but never launched it, court records reveal

In 2018, Facebook proposed an app named Bell aimed at high school students to create a safe space for communication about school events and social interactions. Internal documents indicated that Facebook intended for Bell to engage teens and transition them to the main platform after graduation. The app was designed to include features like group chats, event organization, and an anonymous confessions section. Facebook aimed for Bell to reach 80% of U.S. high schools by the end of 2020, with plans to expand globally. However, the app was never developed, and a spokesperson described it as an early exploratory idea dependent on strong content moderation. Meta has faced legal challenges regarding the impact of its platforms on minors' mental health and has implemented features in its Teen Accounts to empower parental control.
Rumour - Sony 'Backing Away' From Releasing Console Exclusive Single-Player Games On...
AppWizard
February 27, 2026

Rumour – Sony ‘Backing Away’ From Releasing Console Exclusive Single-Player Games On…

Sony Interactive Entertainment is shifting its strategy for game releases on PC, focusing more on live-service games rather than traditional single-player titles. Upcoming games like Marvel’s Wolverine will be exclusive to the PS5, with no current plans for a PC version. Reports suggest that Sony is reducing its PC support for major titles, despite generating .3 billion from sales of first-party games across various platforms, including both single-player and live-service games.
Requiem is my first Resident Evil game - I had no idea what was happening, but loved it anyway
AppWizard
February 27, 2026

Requiem is my first Resident Evil game – I had no idea what was happening, but loved it anyway

Players navigate complex narratives and puzzles in the latest Resident Evil installment, Requiem, experiencing the game through characters Leon Kennedy and Grace. The game features an old police station filled with references for long-time fans, while introducing new gameplay mechanics like a blood device for crafting health injections. Leon's segments focus on action with powerful weapons, contrasting with Grace's survival horror approach. The game includes nods to its predecessors and explores themes of redemption and the mystery of the T-Virus. The player finds enjoyment in the fear, action, and confusion, feeling a connection to the narrative despite a lack of prior knowledge.
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