behind the scenes Archives

AppWizard

May 21, 2025

Android 16’s desktop mode was right in front of me the whole time

Samsung's DeX feature allows users to transform their smartphones into a desktop experience by connecting to an external display. Since its introduction with the Galaxy S8, DeX has evolved, and Google is collaborating with Samsung to enhance it for Android 16's Native desktop mode. This mode aims to improve Android's desktop functionalities, which have previously been limited. Samsung's recent "New DeX" mode, introduced with One UI 6.0 and Android 14, allows for resizable app windows, but Google may choose to adopt a design inspired by the classic DeX experience instead. The future of desktop mode in Android remains uncertain, particularly regarding external display options.

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

AI Mode levels up with new AI features, stealing Google Search’s spotlight

Google's advancements in AI Mode and Search include the rollout of a custom version of the Gemini 2.5 model, enabling users to pose complex queries. Project Astra introduces multimodal capabilities, allowing real-time conversations with Gemini using device cameras. The AI can process website elements and perform tasks like adding items to shopping carts or creating travel itineraries. Users can ask AI Mode to find specific tickets or activities tailored to their interests, with curated suggestions provided. AI Mode will enhance online shopping by integrating with the Shopping Graph, offering visually engaging product listings and a virtual "try-on" feature. Users can upload photos to experiment with outfits and track prices for products. The virtual try-on experience is being rolled out in Search Labs for U.S. users, with full availability of AI Mode in the U.S. starting today.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

Chargers Detail Viral Minecraft Schedule Release Video, Included 500+ Hours In-Game

The Los Angeles Chargers released their schedule through a creative video made in Minecraft, which took over 500 hours to produce. The video features 15,000 entities, 22 mods, and a map covering 48.750 million blocks, showcasing matchups and including hidden easter eggs related to rival teams and iconic stadiums. This innovative approach aims to blend pop culture with sports, appealing to both gamers and football fans. The Chargers are looking to build on their playoff return from last season in the upcoming year under coach Jim Harbaugh.

Winsage

May 11, 2025

10 Windows services I safely disable, and you can too

Windows 11 includes various background services that can be disabled to enhance performance or privacy. Users can access the Services window by searching for "Services" in the search bar. Key services that may be unnecessary for many users include: - Windows Mobile Hotspot Service: Often unnecessary as most laptops lack a mobile data connection. - Fax: Rarely needed for personal computers. - Downloaded Maps Manager: Manages downloaded maps, likely to become less relevant with the deprecation of Windows Maps. - Certificate Propagation: Essential for smart card functionality; can be disabled if not using smart cards. - Windows Insider Service: Manages enrollment in the Windows Insider program; advisable to disable if not participating. - Parental Controls: Useful for families; can be disabled if the device is for personal use. - Windows Image Acquisition: Facilitates image acquisition from scanners and cameras; can be disabled if no scanner is used. - TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper: Aids communication with local network devices; can be disabled for most home users. - Xbox Live Game Save: Syncs save data with Xbox Live; unnecessary for users who primarily use other gaming platforms. - Connected User Experiences and Telemetry: Collects diagnostic data; disabling it can enhance privacy. Disabling these services may not lead to significant performance improvements but can create a more personalized computing experience. Users can re-enable any service if needed later.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

ZeniMax union expresses frustration at parent company Microsoft

Staff at ZeniMax Media are frustrated with delays in negotiations with Microsoft, as they have not secured a union contract nearly two years after forming the ZeniMax Workers United bargaining unit. This situation follows a labor neutrality agreement between Microsoft and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) made almost three years ago. Employees, including senior QA tester Autumn Mitchell, express dissatisfaction with Microsoft's public image versus their experiences during negotiations. CWA chief of staff Sylvia J. Ramos emphasizes the need for Microsoft to prioritize contract negotiations. A Microsoft representative stated the company's commitment to reaching a fair resolution.

Winsage

April 9, 2025

Koto crafts bold 50th anniversary identity for Microsoft, celebrating its past and future

Global design studio Koto has created a new identity for Microsoft's 50th anniversary, celebrating the company's influence and legacy while recognizing current innovators. The campaign is centered around the phrase "Change Needs Makers," emphasizing the contributions of individuals behind Microsoft's software and cultural innovations, especially in the context of AI. Koto's design strategy includes three storytelling structures: "Worlds," which showcases technology's potential; "Iconic Moments," highlighting significant achievements; and "Then & Now," contrasting different eras of the company. The visual identity features a 50th-anniversary logo inspired by the original Windows design, modernized with 3D elements, and uses Segoe Sans Display typography along with a vibrant palette of gradients. The campaign aims to connect Microsoft's past, present, and future, focusing on continuous innovation and inviting the next generation to shape what comes next. Koto has previously developed identities for brands like Google Gemini, Netflix, and Venmo.

AppWizard

April 7, 2025

Streamer Valkyrae Cut From A Minecraft Movie: ‘I Would Much Rather Not Have That 30 Seconds Than Be Sued’

Streamer Valkyrae, also known as Rachell Marie Hofstetter, confirmed that her cameo in A Minecraft Movie was cut from the final release. She stated during a Twitch livestream that she would "much rather not have that 30 seconds than be sued," indicating complexities behind her omission. Valkyrae previously shared a negative experience with Jason Momoa, one of the film's stars, describing a disappointing atmosphere during filming. Although her cameo was cut, some fans believe they saw her in the background of a scene. Valkyrae confirmed her intended appearance would have lasted approximately 30 seconds and reassured her audience that the decision had nothing to do with Minecraft or its creators. She expressed gratitude for spending ten days in New Zealand and maintained a positive view of the film, stating, “No, the movie did not suck.” IGN rated A Minecraft Movie a 6/10, highlighting its comedic elements and kid-friendly adventure.

AppWizard

April 4, 2025

‘A Minecraft Movie’ director calls Jason Momoa a ‘big dork’

Jason Momoa plays Garrett "The Garbageman" Garrison in the upcoming live-action film "A Minecraft Movie," which also stars Jack Black and Jennifer Coolidge. Director Jared Hess highlighted Momoa's comedic side, noting his playful portrayal in a pink leather jacket and a "Gamer of the Year, 1989" badge. The film features Momoa's character navigating the Minecraft "Overworld" with Black's character, Steve. Hess mentioned the chemistry between Momoa and Black, who had mutual admiration for each other. Jennifer Coolidge's character accidentally hits a Minecraft villager with her car, leading to a romantic twist. Hess praised Coolidge's comedic talent, while producer Torfi Frans Ólafsson shared that the cast struggled to maintain professionalism due to laughter, especially during Coolidge's improvisations. The film is currently playing in theaters.

Winsage

April 4, 2025

Microsoft could make a huge change to an iconic part of Windows 11 that you use every day, and I can’t wait to try the new Start menu

Microsoft is redesigning the Start menu in Windows 11, which will feature a wider panel for easier pinning of applications and the ability to disable recommendations for files and apps based on usage history. The new design consolidates Start menu elements into a single, scrollable panel and introduces grid and category views for app organization. These changes are currently in development and not yet officially confirmed.

AppWizard

April 3, 2025

After months of silence, Bungie fires up the Marathon social media machine to tease… well, something

The social media channels for the reboot of Marathon have recently hinted at potential updates after a period of silence since its announcement in 2023. The game's director, Joe Ziegler, confirmed that development is ongoing, but details are still limited. The project faced challenges, including the departure of original director Christopher Barrett due to allegations of inappropriate behavior and his subsequent lawsuit against Sony and Bungie for wrongful dismissal. Concerns have been raised about the market saturation of extraction shooters and the performance of Bungie's other titles, particularly Destiny 2 and Concord.