AI technology Archives

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

Graveyard Keeper devs respond as players make AI accusations: ‘You may not believe me, but we’re not using the AI in Graveyard Keeper 2’

Concerns have emerged among fans regarding the promotional artwork for the sequel to Graveyard Keeper, with some players suggesting it resembles generative AI. A Reddit user criticized the new art, contrasting it with the original's charm. Discussions intensified around Lazy Bear Games' CTO, Slava Cherkasov, who has shown enthusiasm for AI-generated content. In response to the concerns, a user claiming to be Cherkasov stated they are not using AI in the game's development and emphasized that the art is created by a team of eight artists. Cherkasov clarified that he is experimenting with AI technology for personal projects unrelated to Graveyard Keeper. Reactions from the gaming community have varied, with some expressing relief and others remaining skeptical about the use of AI in the game.

Tech Optimizer

April 5, 2026

z3soft sets a new standard in the security market with next-generation integrated security solutions

z3soft is developing the Agentic Security Platform (ASP), which integrates large language models, antivirus solutions, and comprehensive file security to shift from passive to proactive cybersecurity measures. CEO Park Ju-seon highlights the need for a broader market strategy to address challenges in the domestic security market, which is dominated by a few players. The ASP aims to combine legacy security systems with AI technology for enhanced security management. z3soft is focusing on creating a 'cyber immunity' solution for AI environments, integrating Zero Trust principles for data protection. The company plans to foster an integrated security ecosystem through partnerships with smaller firms and aims to make advanced security solutions accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) via a subscription model. z3soft intends to validate its business model in Japan and the U.S. before introducing it to South Korea, with goals set for market entry by 2027 and the launch of zero-trust firewalls in Japan and an integrated security platform in the U.S. Park anticipates that significant changes in the domestic market may take five to ten years.

AppWizard

March 28, 2026

In defense of placeholder assets: why generative AI accidentally appears in so many games

The Expanse: Osiris Reborn has acknowledged the use of generative AI in its development, while Pearl Abyss apologized for unintentionally including AI-generated assets in Crimson Desert. Other games like The Alters and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 have faced similar issues with AI elements. Developers are increasingly cautious about AI integration, with some, like Arc Raiders, moving away from AI-generated voice actors. When AI-generated art appears, developers often claim these were placeholders, which raises concerns about their inclusion in final products. Josh Sawyer highlighted the importance of distinguishing between temporary and final assets in his project Pentiment. The creative process relies on human vision and artistry, which generative AI cannot replicate. Additionally, the environmental impact of AI technology is a concern due to the energy demands of data centers. Developers' claims of unintended AI assets raise questions about transparency, contrasting with Owlcat's open acknowledgment. Players react negatively to AI-generated artwork, leading to swift apologies from developers, highlighting the tension between AI use and artistic integrity.

Tech Optimizer

February 23, 2026

O2 launches McAfee Protect Advanced, a unique security package built exclusively for O2 customers and packed full of award-winning features to protect the whole family

O2 has launched McAfee Protect Advanced, a security solution for its customers available through O2 Extras. This service addresses parents' concerns about children's online safety, with 76% worried about excessive screen time and 78% about misinformation. McAfee Protect Advanced includes features such as AI-powered antivirus, parental controls, a text scam detector, personal data cleanup, and a social privacy manager. O2 customers can access the service for free for the first six months with an Ultimate Plan upgrade or new sign-up, while existing customers can add it for £4.99 per month. The offering allows protection for up to ten devices and enhances O2's existing security measures.

Tech Optimizer

February 22, 2026

Researchers Discover First Android Malware Using Generative AI for Persistence

Security researchers have identified a new Android Trojan named PromptSpy that uses generative AI technology to enhance its persistence on compromised devices. Discovered by ESET researchers, PromptSpy leverages Google's Gemini AI model to analyze infected device screens and generate tailored instructions for embedding itself within recent apps lists. It includes a Virtual Network Computing (VNC) module that allows attackers full remote control over the device, enabling activities such as viewing the screen, performing actions remotely, capturing lock screen data, blocking uninstallation attempts, gathering device information, taking screenshots, and recording screen activity as video. The malware communicates with command-and-control servers using AES encryption and exploits Android Accessibility Services, making it difficult to remove. PromptSpy is distributed through a dedicated website and is financially motivated, adapting to various Android interfaces and operating system versions. ESET's analysis indicates that the malware is regionally targeted, with a focus on Argentina, and may have been developed in a Chinese-speaking environment. The same threat actor is believed to be responsible for both VNCSpy and PromptSpy.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

Minecraft-style indie returns to Steam after Microsoft DMCA scare, creator criticizes “guilty until proven innocent” system

Allumeria, a Minecraft-inspired sandbox game, was temporarily removed from Valve's Steam platform due to a DMCA takedown initiated by Microsoft, claiming copyright infringement based on screenshots. The situation was resolved after community support and intervention from Mojang's chief creative officer, allowing Allumeria's creator, Unomelon, to reinstate the game on Steam. The DMCA notice, attributed to Judith Woodward on behalf of Microsoft, alleged that Allumeria's content infringed upon Minecraft's rights, but the similarities were questioned by many. A lawyer offered to help Unomelon file a counter notice, and Jens Bergensten from Mojang expressed interest in the matter. Ultimately, Microsoft withdrew the claim, and Allumeria was reinstated, with Unomelon reflecting on the challenges faced by smaller developers and the need for reform in the DMCA process.

Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2026

The malware your antivirus can’t see and the AI making 560,000 new viruses every day

Hackers are generating 560,000 new malware variants daily using artificial intelligence, contributing to a 131% increase in malware attacks over the past year. AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude enable rapid malware creation, with 80% of phishing attacks now utilizing AI. Malware is being sold on the dark web, with packages available for 0 for 1,000 installations and monthly subscriptions ranging from 0 to ,000, including customer support. Mac malware incidents have increased by 50% this year, targeting users through deceptive downloads. Red flags for malware include sluggish performance, excessive pop-ups, a hijacked home page, and unfamiliar programs. Paid antivirus solutions can stop 95%-99% of malware, while free options may only catch 60%-80% of threats. Webroot is noted as an effective antivirus solution that uses less memory and scans faster than competitors.

Winsage

January 5, 2026

A popular debloating tool now has fresh powers to strip out Windows 11’s AI features – but I’d proceed with caution

A new version of the FlyOOBE tool for Windows 11, version 2.4, has been released, featuring enhancements for customizing the operating system, including refined capabilities for detecting and removing unnecessary AI features. The update allows users to perform a "deep cleanup" using external tools like RemoveWindowsAI. The tool promotes user choice regarding AI technology rather than rejecting it outright. 'OOBE' stands for 'out of box experience,' and the new AI debloating controls are called 'Slopilot.' The AI removal features are powered by RemoveWindowsAI, which has received positive feedback for disabling AI functionalities. FlyOOBE has over 2.5 million downloads, but users are advised to be cautious with third-party software, as disabling certain components may lead to complications with future Microsoft updates.

AppWizard

December 29, 2025

Clown of Slipknot states that “AI is part of life” and talks about his passion for Minecraft

M. Shawn “Clown” Crahan, the percussionist and creative director for Slipknot, has launched a custom ‘Minecraft’ server called ‘Vernearth’, which he describes as a significant artistic endeavor reflecting his lifelong passion for video games. His gaming journey began with early consoles like Atari and Intellivision, and he views ‘Vernearth’ as a culmination of his creative exploration, influenced by various games including ‘Quake’, ‘Goat Simulator’, and ‘World of Warcraft’. Crahan has a personal connection to ‘Minecraft’, having introduced it to his children and used it as a means of coping with grief. He also shared his perspective on artificial intelligence, likening it to a personal assistant and suggesting its potential for enhancing creativity in music. Crahan believes that younger generations will embrace AI technology, contrasting their views with those of older generations who may be more apprehensive about its implications.

AppWizard

December 25, 2025

Blade director reassures suffering fans with soothing words: ‘Please be patient, it will be a special game’

Arkane Studios unveiled their latest project, Blade, at The Game Awards 2023, but concerns have arisen due to the lack of updates and its absence from the Xbox Games Showcase. The game's silence intensified speculation after it did not appear at the Game Awards 2025. Arkane's co-creative director, Dinga Bakaba, reassured fans on social media that the team is dedicated to delivering a special game. The studio faces challenges, as their previous title, Prey, struggled commercially, and the disappointing performance of Redfall led to the closure of Arkane Austin in 2024. Additionally, Microsoft's focus on artificial intelligence and recent layoffs in its gaming division have raised concerns about the future of game development. The success of Blade is critical for Arkane, as it has the potential to offer a unique take on superhero narratives.