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Why Ustwo Games shifted from mobile to PC and the "mind-boggling" discovery problem
AppWizard
July 16, 2026

Why Ustwo Games shifted from mobile to PC and the “mind-boggling” discovery problem

Ustwo Games, known for Monument Valley, is transitioning from mobile to PC gaming due to challenges in profitability and creative limitations imposed by mobile platforms. CEO Maria Sayans acknowledged that the studio's reliance on mobile subscriptions, which she termed a “honeypot trap,” hindered their ability to create desired games without the support of larger companies like Apple and Netflix. The studio faces issues with discoverability in the gaming industry, criticizing platform holders for inadequate audience engagement. In response, Ustwo is launching the ‘Beautiful Games Club,’ a community initiative aimed at fostering direct relationships with players and enhancing engagement.
Telegram’s ad business: How the messaging app makes money
AppWizard
June 23, 2026

Telegram’s ad business: How the messaging app makes money

Telegram has established an advertising model that focuses on monetizing public channels, selling ads based on channel topics rather than user identity. Revenue generated from ads is split evenly between Telegram and the channel owner, with no data-mining or behavioral targeting involved. The primary ad format is Sponsored Messages, which appear in public channels with at least 1,000 subscribers and consist of a text block and optional call-to-action button. Advertisers can purchase these ads through a self-serve portal without demographic targeting, ensuring no personal data is used for placements. Public channels are treated as independent units, with 50% of ad revenue going to channel owners, paid in Toncoin. Telegram's ad system has become more accessible by lowering minimum spend requirements. In addition to Sponsored Messages, Telegram is developing Mini Apps funded by its in-app currency, Stars. Regulatory scrutiny has increased, with various countries imposing bans or restrictions on Telegram for reasons related to content moderation and compliance, such as a temporary ban in India in June 2026 due to exam fraud investigations.
Minecraft Is Becoming Entertainment’s Most Unexpected Storytelling Tool
AppWizard
June 18, 2026

Minecraft Is Becoming Entertainment’s Most Unexpected Storytelling Tool

In Minecraft, avatars lack facial expressions, prompting players to use imagination and body language for emotional interpretation. Players utilize vocal cues for storytelling, making viewers active participants who can influence gameplay. This interactive storytelling fosters social bonds between creators and audiences, allowing real-time audience engagement. Minecraft serves as a versatile platform for gaming, filmmaking, animation, and social networking, promoting independent media consumption. As Generation Z and Alpha engage with narratives across multiple platforms, Minecraft exemplifies this trend. Community innovators, including modders and animators, have inspired Mojang Studios to create narrative content like Minecraft Story Mode and Minecraft Dungeons, with a sequel set to release in September.
YouTube turns into a messenger: the platform has returned the function of private messages
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

YouTube turns into a messenger: the platform has returned the function of private messages

YouTube has reintroduced in-app private chats, allowing users to share videos, shorts, and live broadcasts without using third-party platforms. To start a chat, users must send an invitation through an external messenger, which is valid for seven days. Once accepted, users can chat one-on-one, but sharing is limited to publicly available content, and interactions are restricted to known contacts. The messaging feature is accessible via a dedicated button in the app, with notifications sent through push alerts. It is currently available only to adult users, with no support for group chats. YouTube previously discontinued its chat feature in 2019 due to low engagement but has decided to bring it back after positive testing results. The new messaging system is currently limited to users in the US, UK, Brazil, and Singapore, with no timeline for availability in Ukraine or other regions.
Tiger Data launches PostgreSQL extension designed for AI agents
Tech Optimizer
June 9, 2026

Tiger Data launches PostgreSQL extension designed for AI agents

Tiger Data has launched a managed PostgreSQL database service called Ghost, designed for AI agents, addressing the limitations of traditional database architectures for autonomous software. The service is now generally available and allows agents to create unlimited databases quickly through a feature called "fast forking." Ghost utilizes Tiger Data's Fluid Storage technology, which employs a copy-on-write storage layer, enabling multiple database instances to share data blocks while charging users only for changed data. The service supports popular PostgreSQL extensions and is positioned as an evolution of PostgreSQL, maintaining its compatibility with the existing ecosystem. Tiger Data has raised 0 million in funding and employs 200 individuals across 25 countries.
Last Flag studio lays off half its employees as it puts 'the future of the game in the hands of our players'
AppWizard
May 23, 2026

Last Flag studio lays off half its employees as it puts ‘the future of the game in the hands of our players’

The CTF shooter game Last Flag was co-founded by Mac and Dan Reynolds, members of the band Imagine Dragons. In 2025, Tyler Wilde from PC Gamer reviewed the game positively. Despite its gameplay, Last Flag struggled to build a player base, leading Night Street Games to announce a free weekend initiative in April, which was later retracted due to low player numbers. The studio's CEO, Mac Reynolds, confirmed a workforce reduction, with about a dozen employees leaving, leaving only 13 team members. Night Street Games plans to support laid-off employees and will continue to release new content for Last Flag, including characters, maps, and custom lobbies. The remaining developers are looking forward to new projects.
Another live service game is dead just a few months after launch
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

Another live service game is dead just a few months after launch

Quantic Dream has announced the discontinuation of its multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA), Spellcasters Chronicles, just three months after its launch due to insufficient audience engagement for long-term sustainability. The game peaked at 888 concurrent players at launch, which quickly declined to very few active users. The studio will halt development, likely leading to layoffs, but will continue work on Star Wars Eclipse. Players can access Spellcasters Chronicles until June 19, after which the servers will shut down, and all expenditures during early access will be eligible for refunds upon request.
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