announcement Archives

AppWizard

October 15, 2026

Epic Games Store Gets a Faster New Launcher Built With AI-Assisted ‘Vibe Coding’

Epic Games has released a public Preview of its redesigned Epic Games Launcher, featuring faster startup times, a revamped library, and reduced resource consumption. The new launcher has a cold start time of 5.47 seconds for the Store, compared to Steam's 10.07 seconds, representing a 46% improvement. Returning to the library takes 0.36 seconds, slightly faster than Steam's 0.42 seconds. The development involved a complete rebuild using a new architecture and AI tools, a process referred to as "vibe coding." The new launcher includes a redesigned library, searchable collections, dedicated game pages, enhanced download monitoring, and support for Linux, Windows, and Apple Silicon Macs. However, it is feature-incomplete, with some functionalities missing and potential bugs expected. Users can uninstall the Preview to revert to the older launcher if desired.

AppWizard

October 15, 2026

Google Play now lets users run private, vibe-coded Android apps

Google has introduced a feature that allows users to run privately created, AI-built Android applications on their smartphones via Google Play without public publication. This enables users to launch their apps using standard Google accounts while keeping them private, as these apps will not appear in Google Play search results or listings. The feature is available to users aged 18 and older in the United States, provided the apps comply with Google Play policies. Users can create apps using Google AI Studio through a process called “vibe coding.” Google plans to allow users to share their AI-built applications with trusted friends in the future and offers the possibility of transitioning popular personal apps into publicly published ones after passing trust and safety reviews. Additionally, Google is developing AI-driven tools to enhance the Google Play experience, including a personalized game recommendation engine called Game Finder, which will be available in English in the U.S. Users can curate game lists, engage in community discussions, and participate in gaming challenges. The Play Store's AI assistant, Ask Play, will receive updates for better app comparisons, and a new age-range feature will help developers create age-appropriate experiences for children.

AppWizard

October 15, 2026

Google Now Lets You Upload Vibe-Coded Apps to a Private Play Store

Google AI Studio is introducing tools for sharing personal software through a private section of the Play Store called "Your personal library," which does not require a developer account. This feature is currently available to U.S. users over 18 and allows them to upload or download their creations using standard login credentials. Users can initially share their vibe-coded software with a close circle of friends and family for testing purposes. Google plans to roll out this sharing feature in the coming months. Additionally, upgrades to the AI-powered Ask Play feature now allow users to compare applications, and enhancements to the Play Family Link service enable parents to set age ranges for their children's app access.

AppWizard

October 14, 2026

Google AI Studio Apps Install on Your Own Android Devices

Google announced on October 13, 2026, a new feature allowing users to install AI Studio apps directly onto their Android devices via Google Play without needing a developer account. This feature is available to users aged 18 and older in select markets, including the United States. The apps will be stored in a personal library section of the Play Store, separate from the public catalog, and will not undergo the usual review processes. Users can create apps using a prompt-based system, which generates a Kotlin project that can be tested in a browser-based emulator. These apps are limited to client-side Android apps for phones and tablets, excluding server components and certain features like Firebase and Google Workspace APIs. In the future, users will be able to share their personal apps with a select group of friends and family. For public listings, users must follow the existing professional developer account pathway, which includes reviews and quality standards. The announcement also introduced enhancements to the Play Store, including an AI-powered discovery feature called Ask Play and personalized game recommendations through Game Finder.

AppWizard

October 14, 2026

Fortnite is coming to Linux once Epic improves Easy Anti-Cheat

Epic Games is working on expanding Fortnite to the Linux gaming ecosystem by rebuilding Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC) to support Linux platforms. They plan to launch Fortnite on Linux via the Epic Games Launcher once EAC Linux v2 is functional with a critical mass of distribution maintainers. This initiative aims to enhance the gaming landscape for Linux users and encourage other developers to bring their games to the platform. Despite growing interest in Linux gaming, many major multiplayer titles remain hesitant due to security concerns. Epic is collaborating with Valve to address compatibility issues with the Steam Deck and has launched a new version of the Epic Games Store client that supports Linux.

BetaBeacon

October 14, 2026

Replaced: Sad Cat Studios’ 2.5D Action Platformer Is Coming to Android Later This Year

Replaced, a popular 2.5D action platformer, is coming to Android devices on December 8, 2026.

AppWizard

October 14, 2026

Google AI Studio Takes Vibe-Coded Android Apps to Google Play

Google has introduced Google AI Studio, enabling users to create native Android apps, preview them in a browser-based emulator, and install them on physical devices without a traditional development setup. AI Studio generates Kotlin applications using Jetpack Compose and allows for real-time previews. By connecting an Android device via USB, users can install apps directly. With a Google Play Developer account, AI Studio can create an app record, package the application bundle, and upload it to an internal testing track, facilitating a quick transition from AI-generated prompts to Play-managed test builds. The initial focus is on personal utilities, social applications, and hardware-enabled experiences. While the app creation process is becoming more accessible, the significant change is in minimizing the gap between app creation and user engagement. Currently, the connection to the Play Store is for internal testing, with broader release options available through a professional developer account. Future support for inviting testers directly from AI Studio is planned, allowing creators to test ideas with real users before full production.

AppWizard

October 13, 2026

Google Adds YouTube Background Playback to Android Automotive Cars

Google is updating Android Automotive with a redesigned Play Store that enhances user experience for drivers, accommodating various infotainment screen sizes and orientations. The new Play Store will feature improved categorization and a refreshed storefront, with over 700 apps available, including new additions like STARZ, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar. A new YouTube playback feature allows users to watch videos while parked, with audio continuing seamlessly when driving, requiring a YouTube Premium subscription. This functionality confirms the previously hinted park-to-driving capability for Android Automotive systems. Android Automotive operates directly on the car’s infotainment system, while Android Auto mirrors apps from a connected smartphone. Google has not clarified if the new automatic switch from video to audio will be available on Android Auto.

BetaBeacon

October 13, 2026

REPLACED Heads to Android This December

REPLACED, a cyberpunk 2.5D Sidescrolling indie-hit, is set to be released on Android in December. The game will be part of the Google Play Games Program, allowing players to enjoy it on mobile, tablets, and PC with synced saves across devices. The port to Android was done by Poland-based studio ‘The Knights of U’.

AppWizard

October 13, 2026

Google makes it easier to launch your vibe-coded apps

Google has launched a feature that allows users to launch their vibe-coded apps directly from the Google Play Store without needing a computer connection for installation. This feature, announced on Tuesday, is currently available in the United States. It builds on the earlier introduction of vibe-coding personal Android apps in May. Google ensures that personal apps will remain separate from the public store catalog to maintain security and privacy. Additionally, Google plans to introduce a feature for users to share their apps with a select group for collaboration and feedback. This initiative aims to help aspiring developers transition from hobbyists to professional creators.