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BetaBeacon

August 13, 2025

Grab These Free Premium Apps for Android and iOS While They Last!

The fact described in the text is that there are free Android apps and games available for a limited time, including an intense side-scrolling action shooter.

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

McDonald’s Corporation ($MCD) Stock: Q2 Sales Rebound on Chicken Strips, Minecraft Promo

McDonald’s Corporation reported a strong second quarter with a stock closing at 8.77 on August 5, down 1.79%, but rising 3.19% in pre-market trading after better-than-expected earnings. Global comparable sales increased by 3.8%, surpassing Bloomberg’s forecast of 2.5%, while U.S. same-store sales rose by 2.5%, exceeding the analyst consensus of 2.3%. Revenue for the quarter reached .84 billion, above the expected .70 billion, and up from .49 billion year-over-year. Net income was .25 billion, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) at .19, beating estimates by [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE: MCD) showcased a robust performance in its second quarter, signaling a rebound from prior challenges. On August 5, the stock closed at 8.77, reflecting a 1.79% decline, yet it experienced a notable surge of 3.19% in pre-market trading, reaching 8.30 following the release of its impressive Q2 earnings. Global comparable sales saw an increase of 3.8%, surpassing Bloomberg’s forecast of 2.5% and marking a significant turnaround from the first quarter of 2025. In the U.S., same-store sales rose by 2.5%, outpacing the analyst consensus of 2.3% and demonstrating a remarkable recovery from a 3.6% decline in Q1. Strong Menu Strategy and Marketing Fuel Growth Revenue for the quarter climbed to .84 billion, exceeding the anticipated .70 billion and improving from .49 billion year-over-year. Net income reached .25 billion, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) at .19, reflecting a rise from .97 YoY and surpassing expectations by [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: TLDR MCD stock closed at $298.77 on Aug. 5, up 3.19% in pre-market after Q2 results Global comparable sales rose 3.8%, led by Japan and strong U.S. demand Revenue reached $6.84B vs. $6.70B expected, up from $6.49B YoY EPS came in at $3.19, beating estimates by $0.05 Menu hits like McCrispy Chicken Strips and a Minecraft-themed meal boosted traffic McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE: MCD) reported a strong second quarter on Wednesday, 6th August, helping its stock recover from recent weakness. MCD closed at $298.77 on August 5, down 1.79%, but surged 3.19% to $308.30 in pre-market trading after releasing better-than-expected Q2 earnings. McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) Global comparable sales increased by 3.8%, beating Bloomberg’s forecast of 2.5%, and reversing a slump from Q1 2025. U.S. same-store sales rose 2.5%, ahead of the 2.3% analyst consensus and a major improvement from the 3.6% drop posted in Q1. Strong Menu Strategy and Marketing Fuel Growth Revenue climbed to $6.84 billion, exceeding the $6.70 billion consensus and improving from $6.49 billion a year earlier. Net income reached $2.25 billion, with adjusted EPS at $3.19, up from $2.97 YoY and $0.05 above expectations. CEO Chris Kempczinski credited “compelling value, standout marketing, and menu innovation” for the recovery. The introduction of McCrispy Chicken Strips in May and the Minecraft Movie Happy Meal in April drove significant traffic gains. The collectible Minecraft figures sold out in under two weeks across 100 countries. International Momentum The International Developmental Licensed Markets segment posted same-store sales growth of 5.6%, led by Japan, surpassing the 3.6% estimate. International Operated Markets also beat expectations, rising 4% vs. the 1.8% projected. Sales in the UK, Canada, and France bounced back after a soft Q1. Restaurants open less than a year saw a 6% increase in sales, while systemwide sales grew 8% (6% in constant currency). McDonald’s said digital loyalty sales hit $9 billion for the quarter. Profitability & Long-Term Outlook Operating income increased 11%, or 7% when excluding one-time restructuring charges of $43 million. Diluted EPS was $3.14, rising 12%, but excluding charges, came in at $3.19—a 7% YoY improvement. Though McDonald’s didn’t update its full-year guidance, Wall Street expects U.S. same-store sales to grow 1.20% and global same-store sales to increase by 1.9%. Analysts like Jefferies’ Andy Barish believe the July Snack Wrap relaunch and $2.99 chicken value deals could push comps back into mid-single-digit growth. Performance Overview: MCD vs. S&P 500 As of August 5, 2025, McDonald’s stock lags the broader market in several timeframes: YTD Return: MCD +4.25% | S&P 500 +7.10% 1-Year Return: MCD +13.91% | S&P 500 +21.46% 3-Year Return: MCD +23.46% | S&P 500 +51.96% 5-Year Return: MCD +68.09% | S&P 500 +89.29% Despite a weaker performance relative to the S&P 500, McDonald’s consistent dividend and defensive positioning continue to appeal to long-term investors. Looking Ahead With Snack Wraps returning in July and increased emphasis on affordable bundles like the $5 Meal Deal, McDonald’s is actively positioning for a stronger rest of 2025. The company remains focused on digital growth, loyalty engagement, and international expansion to keep traffic high amid economic uncertainty. " temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].05. CEO Chris Kempczinski attributed this recovery to “compelling value, standout marketing, and menu innovation.” The launch of McCrispy Chicken Strips in May and the Minecraft Movie Happy Meal in April significantly contributed to increased customer traffic, with collectible Minecraft figures selling out in under two weeks across 100 countries. International Momentum The International Developmental Licensed Markets segment reported same-store sales growth of 5.6%, driven primarily by Japan, which exceeded the 3.6% estimate. Similarly, International Operated Markets also outperformed expectations, rising by 4% compared to the projected 1.8%. Sales in key markets such as the UK, Canada, and France rebounded after a lackluster first quarter. Restaurants that have been open for less than a year experienced a 6% increase in sales, while systemwide sales grew by 8% (6% in constant currency). McDonald’s highlighted that digital loyalty sales reached an impressive billion for the quarter. Profitability & Long-Term Outlook Operating income rose by 11%, or 7% when excluding one-time restructuring charges of million. Diluted EPS increased by 12%, reaching .14, while excluding charges, it stood at .19, marking a 7% improvement year-over-year. Although McDonald’s did not revise its full-year guidance, Wall Street anticipates U.S. same-store sales to grow by 1.20% and global same-store sales to rise by 1.9%. Analysts, including Jefferies’ Andy Barish, suggest that the relaunch of the Snack Wrap and the introduction of .99 chicken value deals could drive comparable sales back into mid-single-digit growth. Performance Overview: MCD vs. S&P 500 As of August 5, 2025, McDonald’s stock has underperformed compared to the broader market across various timeframes: YTD Return: MCD +4.25% | S&P 500 +7.10% 1-Year Return: MCD +13.91% | S&P 500 +21.46% 3-Year Return: MCD +23.46% | S&P 500 +51.96% 5-Year Return: MCD +68.09% | S&P 500 +89.29% Despite this relative underperformance, McDonald’s consistent dividend and defensive positioning continue to attract long-term investors. Looking Ahead With the return of Snack Wraps in July and a heightened focus on affordable bundles like the Meal Deal, McDonald’s is strategically positioning itself for a stronger remainder of 2025. The company remains committed to enhancing digital growth, engaging customer loyalty, and expanding internationally to sustain high traffic levels amidst economic uncertainties." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].05. The International Developmental Licensed Markets segment reported same-store sales growth of 5.6%, led by Japan, and International Operated Markets rose by 4%. Digital loyalty sales hit billion for the quarter. Operating income increased by 11%, and diluted EPS rose by 12% to .14. Wall Street expects U.S. same-store sales to grow by 1.20% and global same-store sales by 1.9%. McDonald’s stock has underperformed compared to the S&P 500 across various timeframes, with a year-to-date return of +4.25% compared to +7.10% for the S&P 500.

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

New Fanatical Deal Lets You Get 1 PC Game for $1

Fanatical has launched its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle, allowing gamers to select from 15 different PC games. The bundle starts at for a single game, with prices dropping to [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, the excitement surrounding new releases is palpable. From the charming indie title Tiny Bookshop to the blockbuster anticipation of GTA 6, gamers are spoiled for choice. However, budgetary constraints can often temper the thrill of acquiring these titles. This is where enticing game deals come into play, offering a way to expand gaming libraries without breaking the bank. A recent initiative from Fanatical presents an opportunity to snag games for as little as , with even deeper discounts available for bulk purchases. Fanatical's August 2025 Bundle Fanatical has unveiled its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle, allowing gamers to curate their own selection from a diverse array of featured titles. The offer begins at just for a single game, with prices decreasing significantly for larger bundles. For those who opt for five or more games, the cost drops to a mere [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: These days, there are so many great games coming out all the time. From indie gems like Tiny Bookshop to AAA titles like the ever-anticipated GTA 6, there’s no lack of games to look forward to. But when it comes to actually buying games, there’s budget constraints to contend with. That’s where game deals come in, letting us save some money while picking up great games to add to our libraries. And thanks to a new PC game bundle on Fanatical, you can grab a game for just $1, or even less if you buy more. Videos by ComicBook.com Fanatical recently launched its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle deal. With this deal, gamers can build their own bundle from a selection of featured games, starting with just 1 game for $1. If you want 5 or more games, you’ll get each for just $0.60. See 10 or more that you like? You can snag them for just $0.50 a piece. The PC game bundle deal runs from now until supplies run out for each individual game included. A screenshot from Monument Valley, one of the bundle games (Image Courtesy of ustwo games) Like with all Fanatical deals, you’ll get a Steam code to redeem for your chosen game. You can seamlessly add it to your Steam library and jump right in. Most games included in this discount bundle are for PC, though some are available for Linux and Mac OS systems as well. Everything Included in the Fanatical Build Your Own Bundle for August 2025 There are a total of 15 different PC games included in the bundle deal this time around. There is a good mix of genres, with some cozy games, some Metroidvanias, and more, so there should be something for most gamers. Here’s everything you can grab for $1 or less in this August Fanatical Bundle: The Sinking Forest – Survival Horror Game, Normally $4.99 Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Broken Pieces – Story Driven Puzzle game, Normally $9.99 Sub Terror – Multiplayer Co-Op Horror Game, Normally $7.99 Against All Odds – Humor Sports Side-Scroller, Normally $4.99 The Simulacrum – Roguelike Card Battler, Normally $4.99 Teslagrad Remastered – 2D Platformer, Normally $9.99 Teslagrad 2 – 2D Platformer, Normally $19.99 Metamorphosis – Adventure Puzzle Game, Normally $24.99 Thrive -Realistic Simulation Game, Normally $4.99 Ruin Raiders – Roguelite Sci-Fi Game, Normally $7.99 Forrader Hero – Roguelike Dungeon-Crawler, Normally $3.99 Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Escape Room Puzzle Game, Normally $14.99 Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Adventure Side Scroller, Normally $9.99 teslagrad 2 image courtesy of Rain Games & Maximum Entertainment In addition to being available on PC, the entire list of games is also at least Steam Deck playable. Most titles are fully verified for Valve’s handheld system, meaning you should be able to play them smoothly on your Steam Deck. Many of these games are usually pretty affordable, but there are a few real steals with games that are normally as much as $25 being marked down to only $1. Those are probably going to go the quickest, so head to Fanatical ASAP if you want to grab the best deals in this month’s Build Your Own Bundle offering. Are any of these games on your wishlist? Will you be checking them out while they’re discounted? Let us know in the comments below! " temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].60 each, and for ten or more, the price is an astonishing [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: These days, there are so many great games coming out all the time. From indie gems like Tiny Bookshop to AAA titles like the ever-anticipated GTA 6, there’s no lack of games to look forward to. But when it comes to actually buying games, there’s budget constraints to contend with. That’s where game deals come in, letting us save some money while picking up great games to add to our libraries. And thanks to a new PC game bundle on Fanatical, you can grab a game for just $1, or even less if you buy more. Videos by ComicBook.com Fanatical recently launched its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle deal. With this deal, gamers can build their own bundle from a selection of featured games, starting with just 1 game for $1. If you want 5 or more games, you’ll get each for just $0.60. See 10 or more that you like? You can snag them for just $0.50 a piece. The PC game bundle deal runs from now until supplies run out for each individual game included. A screenshot from Monument Valley, one of the bundle games (Image Courtesy of ustwo games) Like with all Fanatical deals, you’ll get a Steam code to redeem for your chosen game. You can seamlessly add it to your Steam library and jump right in. Most games included in this discount bundle are for PC, though some are available for Linux and Mac OS systems as well. Everything Included in the Fanatical Build Your Own Bundle for August 2025 There are a total of 15 different PC games included in the bundle deal this time around. There is a good mix of genres, with some cozy games, some Metroidvanias, and more, so there should be something for most gamers. Here’s everything you can grab for $1 or less in this August Fanatical Bundle: The Sinking Forest – Survival Horror Game, Normally $4.99 Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Broken Pieces – Story Driven Puzzle game, Normally $9.99 Sub Terror – Multiplayer Co-Op Horror Game, Normally $7.99 Against All Odds – Humor Sports Side-Scroller, Normally $4.99 The Simulacrum – Roguelike Card Battler, Normally $4.99 Teslagrad Remastered – 2D Platformer, Normally $9.99 Teslagrad 2 – 2D Platformer, Normally $19.99 Metamorphosis – Adventure Puzzle Game, Normally $24.99 Thrive -Realistic Simulation Game, Normally $4.99 Ruin Raiders – Roguelite Sci-Fi Game, Normally $7.99 Forrader Hero – Roguelike Dungeon-Crawler, Normally $3.99 Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Escape Room Puzzle Game, Normally $14.99 Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Adventure Side Scroller, Normally $9.99 teslagrad 2 image courtesy of Rain Games & Maximum Entertainment In addition to being available on PC, the entire list of games is also at least Steam Deck playable. Most titles are fully verified for Valve’s handheld system, meaning you should be able to play them smoothly on your Steam Deck. Many of these games are usually pretty affordable, but there are a few real steals with games that are normally as much as $25 being marked down to only $1. Those are probably going to go the quickest, so head to Fanatical ASAP if you want to grab the best deals in this month’s Build Your Own Bundle offering. Are any of these games on your wishlist? Will you be checking them out while they’re discounted? Let us know in the comments below! " temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50 per game. This promotional event is set to continue until the individual game stocks are exhausted. A screenshot from Monument Valley, one of the bundle games (Image Courtesy of ustwo games) As is customary with Fanatical's offerings, each game comes with a Steam code, allowing for seamless integration into players' Steam libraries. While the majority of these titles are designed for PC, a selection is also compatible with Linux and Mac OS systems. Everything Included in the Fanatical Build Your Own Bundle for August 2025 This month’s bundle features a total of 15 distinct PC games, showcasing a variety of genres to cater to diverse gaming preferences. Here’s a glimpse of what you can acquire for just or less: The Sinking Forest – Survival Horror Game, Normally .99 Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally .99 Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally .99 Broken Pieces – Story Driven Puzzle game, Normally .99 Sub Terror – Multiplayer Co-Op Horror Game, Normally .99 Against All Odds – Humor Sports Side-Scroller, Normally .99 The Simulacrum – Roguelike Card Battler, Normally .99 Teslagrad Remastered – 2D Platformer, Normally .99 Teslagrad 2 – 2D Platformer, Normally .99 Metamorphosis – Adventure Puzzle Game, Normally .99 Thrive – Realistic Simulation Game, Normally .99 Ruin Raiders – Roguelite Sci-Fi Game, Normally .99 Forrader Hero – Roguelike Dungeon-Crawler, Normally .99 Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Escape Room Puzzle Game, Normally .99 Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Adventure Side Scroller, Normally .99 Teslagrad 2 image courtesy of Rain Games & Maximum Entertainment Notably, all games in this bundle are at least playable on the Steam Deck, with many titles fully verified for Valve’s handheld system. While most games are typically budget-friendly, this bundle includes exceptional deals, with some titles that usually retail for as much as now available for just . Given the limited availability, those interested in maximizing their gaming experience should act swiftly to secure the best offerings from this month’s Build Your Own Bundle." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].60 each for five or more games, and [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, the excitement surrounding new releases is palpable. From the charming indie title Tiny Bookshop to the blockbuster anticipation of GTA 6, gamers are spoiled for choice. However, budgetary constraints can often temper the thrill of acquiring these titles. This is where enticing game deals come into play, offering a way to expand gaming libraries without breaking the bank. A recent initiative from Fanatical presents an opportunity to snag games for as little as , with even deeper discounts available for bulk purchases. Fanatical's August 2025 Bundle Fanatical has unveiled its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle, allowing gamers to curate their own selection from a diverse array of featured titles. The offer begins at just for a single game, with prices decreasing significantly for larger bundles. For those who opt for five or more games, the cost drops to a mere [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: These days, there are so many great games coming out all the time. From indie gems like Tiny Bookshop to AAA titles like the ever-anticipated GTA 6, there’s no lack of games to look forward to. But when it comes to actually buying games, there’s budget constraints to contend with. That’s where game deals come in, letting us save some money while picking up great games to add to our libraries. And thanks to a new PC game bundle on Fanatical, you can grab a game for just $1, or even less if you buy more. Videos by ComicBook.com Fanatical recently launched its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle deal. With this deal, gamers can build their own bundle from a selection of featured games, starting with just 1 game for $1. If you want 5 or more games, you’ll get each for just $0.60. See 10 or more that you like? You can snag them for just $0.50 a piece. The PC game bundle deal runs from now until supplies run out for each individual game included. A screenshot from Monument Valley, one of the bundle games (Image Courtesy of ustwo games) Like with all Fanatical deals, you’ll get a Steam code to redeem for your chosen game. You can seamlessly add it to your Steam library and jump right in. Most games included in this discount bundle are for PC, though some are available for Linux and Mac OS systems as well. Everything Included in the Fanatical Build Your Own Bundle for August 2025 There are a total of 15 different PC games included in the bundle deal this time around. There is a good mix of genres, with some cozy games, some Metroidvanias, and more, so there should be something for most gamers. Here’s everything you can grab for $1 or less in this August Fanatical Bundle: The Sinking Forest – Survival Horror Game, Normally $4.99 Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Broken Pieces – Story Driven Puzzle game, Normally $9.99 Sub Terror – Multiplayer Co-Op Horror Game, Normally $7.99 Against All Odds – Humor Sports Side-Scroller, Normally $4.99 The Simulacrum – Roguelike Card Battler, Normally $4.99 Teslagrad Remastered – 2D Platformer, Normally $9.99 Teslagrad 2 – 2D Platformer, Normally $19.99 Metamorphosis – Adventure Puzzle Game, Normally $24.99 Thrive -Realistic Simulation Game, Normally $4.99 Ruin Raiders – Roguelite Sci-Fi Game, Normally $7.99 Forrader Hero – Roguelike Dungeon-Crawler, Normally $3.99 Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Escape Room Puzzle Game, Normally $14.99 Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Adventure Side Scroller, Normally $9.99 teslagrad 2 image courtesy of Rain Games & Maximum Entertainment In addition to being available on PC, the entire list of games is also at least Steam Deck playable. Most titles are fully verified for Valve’s handheld system, meaning you should be able to play them smoothly on your Steam Deck. Many of these games are usually pretty affordable, but there are a few real steals with games that are normally as much as $25 being marked down to only $1. Those are probably going to go the quickest, so head to Fanatical ASAP if you want to grab the best deals in this month’s Build Your Own Bundle offering. Are any of these games on your wishlist? Will you be checking them out while they’re discounted? Let us know in the comments below! " temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].60 each, and for ten or more, the price is an astonishing [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: These days, there are so many great games coming out all the time. From indie gems like Tiny Bookshop to AAA titles like the ever-anticipated GTA 6, there’s no lack of games to look forward to. But when it comes to actually buying games, there’s budget constraints to contend with. That’s where game deals come in, letting us save some money while picking up great games to add to our libraries. And thanks to a new PC game bundle on Fanatical, you can grab a game for just $1, or even less if you buy more. Videos by ComicBook.com Fanatical recently launched its August 2025 Build Your Own Scorching Bundle deal. With this deal, gamers can build their own bundle from a selection of featured games, starting with just 1 game for $1. If you want 5 or more games, you’ll get each for just $0.60. See 10 or more that you like? You can snag them for just $0.50 a piece. The PC game bundle deal runs from now until supplies run out for each individual game included. A screenshot from Monument Valley, one of the bundle games (Image Courtesy of ustwo games) Like with all Fanatical deals, you’ll get a Steam code to redeem for your chosen game. You can seamlessly add it to your Steam library and jump right in. Most games included in this discount bundle are for PC, though some are available for Linux and Mac OS systems as well. Everything Included in the Fanatical Build Your Own Bundle for August 2025 There are a total of 15 different PC games included in the bundle deal this time around. There is a good mix of genres, with some cozy games, some Metroidvanias, and more, so there should be something for most gamers. Here’s everything you can grab for $1 or less in this August Fanatical Bundle: The Sinking Forest – Survival Horror Game, Normally $4.99 Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally $7.99 Broken Pieces – Story Driven Puzzle game, Normally $9.99 Sub Terror – Multiplayer Co-Op Horror Game, Normally $7.99 Against All Odds – Humor Sports Side-Scroller, Normally $4.99 The Simulacrum – Roguelike Card Battler, Normally $4.99 Teslagrad Remastered – 2D Platformer, Normally $9.99 Teslagrad 2 – 2D Platformer, Normally $19.99 Metamorphosis – Adventure Puzzle Game, Normally $24.99 Thrive -Realistic Simulation Game, Normally $4.99 Ruin Raiders – Roguelite Sci-Fi Game, Normally $7.99 Forrader Hero – Roguelike Dungeon-Crawler, Normally $3.99 Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Escape Room Puzzle Game, Normally $14.99 Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Adventure Side Scroller, Normally $9.99 teslagrad 2 image courtesy of Rain Games & Maximum Entertainment In addition to being available on PC, the entire list of games is also at least Steam Deck playable. Most titles are fully verified for Valve’s handheld system, meaning you should be able to play them smoothly on your Steam Deck. Many of these games are usually pretty affordable, but there are a few real steals with games that are normally as much as $25 being marked down to only $1. Those are probably going to go the quickest, so head to Fanatical ASAP if you want to grab the best deals in this month’s Build Your Own Bundle offering. Are any of these games on your wishlist? Will you be checking them out while they’re discounted? Let us know in the comments below! " temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].50 per game. This promotional event is set to continue until the individual game stocks are exhausted. A screenshot from Monument Valley, one of the bundle games (Image Courtesy of ustwo games) As is customary with Fanatical's offerings, each game comes with a Steam code, allowing for seamless integration into players' Steam libraries. While the majority of these titles are designed for PC, a selection is also compatible with Linux and Mac OS systems. Everything Included in the Fanatical Build Your Own Bundle for August 2025 This month’s bundle features a total of 15 distinct PC games, showcasing a variety of genres to cater to diverse gaming preferences. Here’s a glimpse of what you can acquire for just or less: The Sinking Forest – Survival Horror Game, Normally .99 Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally .99 Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Casual Puzzle game, Normally .99 Broken Pieces – Story Driven Puzzle game, Normally .99 Sub Terror – Multiplayer Co-Op Horror Game, Normally .99 Against All Odds – Humor Sports Side-Scroller, Normally .99 The Simulacrum – Roguelike Card Battler, Normally .99 Teslagrad Remastered – 2D Platformer, Normally .99 Teslagrad 2 – 2D Platformer, Normally .99 Metamorphosis – Adventure Puzzle Game, Normally .99 Thrive – Realistic Simulation Game, Normally .99 Ruin Raiders – Roguelite Sci-Fi Game, Normally .99 Forrader Hero – Roguelike Dungeon-Crawler, Normally .99 Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Escape Room Puzzle Game, Normally .99 Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Adventure Side Scroller, Normally .99 Teslagrad 2 image courtesy of Rain Games & Maximum Entertainment Notably, all games in this bundle are at least playable on the Steam Deck, with many titles fully verified for Valve’s handheld system. While most games are typically budget-friendly, this bundle includes exceptional deals, with some titles that usually retail for as much as now available for just . Given the limited availability, those interested in maximizing their gaming experience should act swiftly to secure the best offerings from this month’s Build Your Own Bundle." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 each for ten or more. The offer is valid until individual game stocks run out. Each game comes with a Steam code for easy integration into players' Steam libraries. The games included cater to various genres, such as survival horror, casual puzzle, and roguelike dungeon-crawlers. Notable titles in the bundle include: - The Sinking Forest – Normally .99 - Monument Valley Panoramic Edition – Normally .99 - Monument Valley II Panoramic Edition – Normally .99 - Broken Pieces – Normally .99 - Sub Terror – Normally .99 - Against All Odds – Normally .99 - The Simulacrum – Normally .99 - Teslagrad Remastered – Normally .99 - Teslagrad 2 – Normally .99 - Metamorphosis – Normally .99 - Thrive – Normally .99 - Ruin Raiders – Normally .99 - Forrader Hero – Normally .99 - Dr. Livingsone, I Presume?: Reversed Escape Room – Normally .99 - Prophecy 1 – The Viking Child & Dorke and Yump Double Pack – Normally .99 All games are playable on PC and at least compatible with Steam Deck.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite now ‘generally available’ following Google’s month-long preview

Google has announced the general availability of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, which is described as the most cost-efficient and fastest version in the 2.5 series. The pricing for this model is set at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: What you need to know Google has officially unveiled the "general availability" of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, a significant addition to its suite of AI offerings. This latest variant is touted as the most cost-efficient and fastest in the 2.5 series, promising to enhance productivity for developers and businesses alike. The pricing structure for this model is particularly appealing, with costs set at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: What you need to knowGoogle announced the "general availability" of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, which is said to be its most cost-efficient and fastest version in the 2.5 series.While developers can find $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output, 2.5 Flash-Lite has already gone through some heavy real-world scenarios.Companies like Satlyt have used the model to help summarize telemetry data and process satellite data far quicker than before.Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite entered its preview stage in June during the public availability of 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro in the Gemini app, Vertex AI, and AI Studio.The finale to Google's recent string of 2.5 models has arrived, as the company highlights a Gemini variant previously held in testing.This afternoon (July 22), in an email to Android Central, Google announced the "general availability" of Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, which has exited its preview stage. The company went into more in-depth detail in a Developers blog post, stating this Gemini variant is its "fastest" and most "cost-efficient" AI model. The post details developers will find costs at $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output.with Google's 2.5 Gemini models over the past month. In June, the company brought its 2.5 Pro and 2.5 Flash models into the public eye via the Gemini app, Google AI Studio, and Vertex AI spaces. The most important part of that announcement was revealing that 2.5 Flash-Lite was entering its preview stage. This iteration came only a few months after Google made the 2.0 version public earlier this year.At the time, Google pushed the cost-efficient and fast sides of 2.5 Flash-Lite for developers looking to quicken their workload. In the event that you require more thought power, there is Gemini 2.5 Pro." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].10 per 1 million tokens for input and [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: What you need to knowGoogle announced the "general availability" of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, which is said to be its most cost-efficient and fastest version in the 2.5 series.While developers can find $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output, 2.5 Flash-Lite has already gone through some heavy real-world scenarios.Companies like Satlyt have used the model to help summarize telemetry data and process satellite data far quicker than before.Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite entered its preview stage in June during the public availability of 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro in the Gemini app, Vertex AI, and AI Studio.The finale to Google's recent string of 2.5 models has arrived, as the company highlights a Gemini variant previously held in testing.This afternoon (July 22), in an email to Android Central, Google announced the "general availability" of Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, which has exited its preview stage. The company went into more in-depth detail in a Developers blog post, stating this Gemini variant is its "fastest" and most "cost-efficient" AI model. The post details developers will find costs at $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output.with Google's 2.5 Gemini models over the past month. In June, the company brought its 2.5 Pro and 2.5 Flash models into the public eye via the Gemini app, Google AI Studio, and Vertex AI spaces. The most important part of that announcement was revealing that 2.5 Flash-Lite was entering its preview stage. This iteration came only a few months after Google made the 2.0 version public earlier this year.At the time, Google pushed the cost-efficient and fast sides of 2.5 Flash-Lite for developers looking to quicken their workload. In the event that you require more thought power, there is Gemini 2.5 Pro." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].40 for output. This pricing strategy aims to make advanced AI capabilities accessible to a broader range of users. Notably, Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite has already been put to the test in real-world scenarios. Companies such as Satlyt have leveraged this model to expedite the summarization of telemetry data and process satellite information with remarkable speed. This development follows the preview stage initiated in June, coinciding with the public release of the 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro models within the Gemini app, Vertex AI, and AI Studio platforms. The culmination of Google's recent advancements in the 2.5 model lineup has arrived, marking a pivotal moment for the tech giant. In a communication to Android Central, Google confirmed that Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite has transitioned from its testing phase to general availability. The announcement was further elaborated in a blog post on the Developers platform, emphasizing the model's speed and cost-effectiveness. With the introduction of Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, Google continues to build on its legacy of innovation. The company previously showcased its 2.5 Pro and 2.5 Flash models, which were made publicly available in June. This strategic rollout underscores Google's commitment to providing powerful AI tools that cater to the diverse needs of developers. For those seeking enhanced computational capabilities, the Gemini 2.5 Pro remains an option, ensuring that users can choose the level of power that best suits their requirements. As the landscape of AI continues to evolve, Google's latest offerings are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of technology." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].10 per 1 million tokens for input and [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: What you need to know Google has officially unveiled the "general availability" of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, a significant addition to its suite of AI offerings. This latest variant is touted as the most cost-efficient and fastest in the 2.5 series, promising to enhance productivity for developers and businesses alike. The pricing structure for this model is particularly appealing, with costs set at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: What you need to knowGoogle announced the "general availability" of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, which is said to be its most cost-efficient and fastest version in the 2.5 series.While developers can find $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output, 2.5 Flash-Lite has already gone through some heavy real-world scenarios.Companies like Satlyt have used the model to help summarize telemetry data and process satellite data far quicker than before.Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite entered its preview stage in June during the public availability of 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro in the Gemini app, Vertex AI, and AI Studio.The finale to Google's recent string of 2.5 models has arrived, as the company highlights a Gemini variant previously held in testing.This afternoon (July 22), in an email to Android Central, Google announced the "general availability" of Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, which has exited its preview stage. The company went into more in-depth detail in a Developers blog post, stating this Gemini variant is its "fastest" and most "cost-efficient" AI model. The post details developers will find costs at $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output.with Google's 2.5 Gemini models over the past month. In June, the company brought its 2.5 Pro and 2.5 Flash models into the public eye via the Gemini app, Google AI Studio, and Vertex AI spaces. The most important part of that announcement was revealing that 2.5 Flash-Lite was entering its preview stage. This iteration came only a few months after Google made the 2.0 version public earlier this year.At the time, Google pushed the cost-efficient and fast sides of 2.5 Flash-Lite for developers looking to quicken their workload. In the event that you require more thought power, there is Gemini 2.5 Pro." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].10 per 1 million tokens for input and [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: What you need to knowGoogle announced the "general availability" of its Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite model, which is said to be its most cost-efficient and fastest version in the 2.5 series.While developers can find $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output, 2.5 Flash-Lite has already gone through some heavy real-world scenarios.Companies like Satlyt have used the model to help summarize telemetry data and process satellite data far quicker than before.Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite entered its preview stage in June during the public availability of 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro in the Gemini app, Vertex AI, and AI Studio.The finale to Google's recent string of 2.5 models has arrived, as the company highlights a Gemini variant previously held in testing.This afternoon (July 22), in an email to Android Central, Google announced the "general availability" of Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, which has exited its preview stage. The company went into more in-depth detail in a Developers blog post, stating this Gemini variant is its "fastest" and most "cost-efficient" AI model. The post details developers will find costs at $0.10 per 1M token input and $0.40 for output.with Google's 2.5 Gemini models over the past month. In June, the company brought its 2.5 Pro and 2.5 Flash models into the public eye via the Gemini app, Google AI Studio, and Vertex AI spaces. The most important part of that announcement was revealing that 2.5 Flash-Lite was entering its preview stage. This iteration came only a few months after Google made the 2.0 version public earlier this year.At the time, Google pushed the cost-efficient and fast sides of 2.5 Flash-Lite for developers looking to quicken their workload. In the event that you require more thought power, there is Gemini 2.5 Pro." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].40 for output. This pricing strategy aims to make advanced AI capabilities accessible to a broader range of users. Notably, Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite has already been put to the test in real-world scenarios. Companies such as Satlyt have leveraged this model to expedite the summarization of telemetry data and process satellite information with remarkable speed. This development follows the preview stage initiated in June, coinciding with the public release of the 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro models within the Gemini app, Vertex AI, and AI Studio platforms. The culmination of Google's recent advancements in the 2.5 model lineup has arrived, marking a pivotal moment for the tech giant. In a communication to Android Central, Google confirmed that Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite has transitioned from its testing phase to general availability. The announcement was further elaborated in a blog post on the Developers platform, emphasizing the model's speed and cost-effectiveness. With the introduction of Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite, Google continues to build on its legacy of innovation. The company previously showcased its 2.5 Pro and 2.5 Flash models, which were made publicly available in June. This strategic rollout underscores Google's commitment to providing powerful AI tools that cater to the diverse needs of developers. For those seeking enhanced computational capabilities, the Gemini 2.5 Pro remains an option, ensuring that users can choose the level of power that best suits their requirements. As the landscape of AI continues to evolve, Google's latest offerings are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of technology." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].40 for output. Companies like Satlyt have utilized the model for summarizing telemetry data and processing satellite information more quickly. Gemini 2.5 Flash-Lite entered its preview stage in June, alongside the public release of the 2.5 Flash and 2.5 Pro models.

AppWizard

July 18, 2025

Civilization 6 Platinum Edition goes free to kick off Epic’s 2025 Summer Sale

The Epic Games Store's 2025 Summer Sale has launched, featuring discounted titles and a free giveaway of the Civilization 6 Platinum Edition, which includes the base game, the Rise and Fall and Gathering Storm expansions, and six DLC packs. The Platinum Edition is available for free until July 24, while the sale runs until August 1. Other discounted games include It Takes Two, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, Alan Wake Remastered, Far Cry 5, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak, and Titanfall 2 Ultimate Edition. The Epic Rewards program allows users to earn rewards on purchases that can be used for future discounts.

BetaBeacon

July 9, 2025

Grab These Free Apps for Android and iOS While They Last!

Android Apps and Games are available for free for a limited time, including apps like Unit Converter Pro, Fake Screen Call, Water Reflection Photo Effects, Stabilize Video, and Compress Video.

AppWizard

July 3, 2025

‘Lilo & Stitch’ Hula Dances Past ‘A Minecraft Movie’ As Disney Pic Becomes Highest Grossing MPA Movie YTD With $957M+ Worldwide

Disney's Lilo & Stitch has surpassed Warner Bros and Legendary's A Minecraft Movie, becoming the highest-grossing MPA film of the year with 7.6 million globally, including 3.9 million from international markets. A Minecraft Movie has earned 4.9 million worldwide, with 0.9 million from abroad. Both films are the only ones to exceed 0 million in 2025. Lilo & Stitch is in its sixth week of release and is projected to be the first Hollywood film to gross over a billion dollars this year. However, A Minecraft Movie remains the highest-grossing film in the U.S. with 3.9 million, compared to Lilo & Stitch's 3.7 million. Lilo & Stitch has performed well in various international markets, with top earnings in Mexico (.1 million), the UK (.1 million), and France (.8 million). It is the highest-grossing film of 2025 in multiple countries, including France, Italy, Spain, Brazil, and Mexico. The film opened domestically with 2.6 million over the four-day Memorial Day weekend, marking the largest opening of its kind in history. The original Lilo & Stitch film has generated over 579 million hours of viewing on Disney+, with more than 306 million hours attributed to the original film. Retail sales for Stitch merchandise have increased significantly, from [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: EXCLUSIVE: Disney’s Lilo & Stitch continues to dominate the box office, recently surpassing Warner Bros and Legendary’s pixelated adventure, A Minecraft Movie. With a remarkable 7.6 million in global earnings and 3.9 million from international markets, Lilo & Stitch has secured its position as the highest-grossing MPA film of the year to date. In comparison, A Minecraft Movie has amassed 4.9 million worldwide, with 0.9 million coming from abroad. As of now, these two films are the only ones to have crossed the 0 million threshold in 2025. Currently in its sixth week of release, Lilo & Stitch is on track to become the first Hollywood title to gross over a billion dollars this year. However, it’s worth noting that A Minecraft Movie still holds the title for the highest-grossing film in the United States, with 3.9 million, compared to Lilo & Stitch’s 3.7 million. Both films have successfully crossed the 0 million mark domestically. Industry Insights As the box office rebounds in the post-COVID landscape, studios are gaining renewed confidence in the theatrical experience. A significant trend emerging from this resurgence is the lucrative potential of nostalgic female-centric properties. Films like Lilo & Stitch (62% female audience), How to Train Your Dragon (50% female audience), and the anticipated Moana 2 (71% female audience) highlight this trend. With this in mind, all eyes are now on Disney’s upcoming sequel, Freakier Friday, featuring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, set to release on August 8. To date, Lilo & Stitch has performed exceptionally well in various international markets, with top territories including Mexico (.1 million), the UK (.1 million), and France (.8 million). It has already become the highest-grossing film of 2025 in several countries, including France, Italy, Spain, Brazil, and Mexico, as well as across all Latin American markets. In addition to its impressive box office performance, Lilo & Stitch has made its mark in the all-time industry rankings in Brazil and Mexico, along with the broader Latin American region. Notably, it has also become the highest-grossing Disney live-action title of all time in Mexico and several smaller markets. The film opened domestically with a staggering 2.6 million over the four-day Memorial Day weekend, marking the largest opening of its kind in history, surpassing Top Gun: Maverick’s previous record of 0.5 million. Among all four-day holiday weekend openings, Lilo & Stitch ranks second only to Black Panther, which achieved 2 million during the President’s Day weekend in 2018. Disney’s decision to create a live-action adaptation of the beloved 2002 animated classic was a strategic move, especially considering the original film’s 5.7 million domestic and 4.7 million worldwide gross. The Lilo & Stitch franchise has since generated over 579 million hours of viewing on Disney+ globally, with the original film accounting for more than 306 million hours. Retail sales for Stitch merchandise have skyrocketed from [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: EXCLUSIVE: Disney’s A Lilo & Stitch continues to upend the box office with the duo taking out Warner Bros and Legendary’s pigs and chickens pixelated pic A Minecraft Movie to become the highest grossing MPA movie year-to-date with $957.6 million worldwide and $553.9 million international. A Minecraft Movie stands at $954.9M million worldwide and $530.9M abroad. They are the only two movies to surpass $900M currently in 2025. Lilo & Stich is currently in its sixth week at the box office. Note the Dean Fleischer Camp directed movie is still on track to become the first billion-dollar grossing Hollywood title of 2025. Also, in all fairness to A Minecraft Movie, they’re still the highest grossing movie stateside with $423.9M to Lilo & Stitch‘s $403.7M. They’re also the only two pics to cross the four century mark stateside. Watch on Deadline As the box office in post Covid and strike times provides more confidence to studios about the potency of theatrical, here’s another big takeaway for the industry, and that’s that there’s big business in beloved nostalgic female properties, i.e. Lilo & Stitch (62% women), How to Train Your Dragon (50% women) and Moana 2 (71%). No pressure, Disney, but all eyes are on the sequel Freakier Friday with Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan on Aug. 8. To date, Lilo & Stitch top territories are as follows: Mexico ($66.1M), UK ($47.1M), France ($39.8M), Brazil ($36M), Germany ($30.2M), Spain ($25.9M), China ($25.2M), Italy ($24.5M), Argentina ($19M), Australia ($18.8M), Japan ($16.3M) and Central America ($15.8M). Lilo & Stitch is already the highest grossing film of 2025 in France, Italy, Spain, Brazil and Mexico as well as all the Latin American countries and many other markets. Lilo & Stitch is in the top all-time industry lists of such markets as Brazil and Mexico as well as the Latin America region as a whole. It’s also the highest grossing Disney live-action title of all-time in Mexico as well as several smaller markets. Lilo & Stitch opened domestically to $182.6M 4-day, repping the biggest 4-day Memorial Day weekend opening of all time, ahead of Top Gun Maverick’s $160.5M. Across all 4-day holiday weekend openings, Lilo & Stitch had the second biggest ever, only behind Black Panther‘s $242M (President’s Day Wknd 2018). As we’ve always noted, it was logical that Disney would make a live-action take of the 2002 animated movie (which only made $145.7M domestic, $274.7M worldwide). The Lilo & Stitch franchise in series and the original pic has driven over 579 million hours on Disney+ around the globe. The original Lilo & Stitch has accounted for more than 306M hours of viewing on the OTT service. Disney+ global. Retail sales for Stitch have grown from $0.2B in 2019 to $2.6B in 2024, representing a ten-fold increase. Stitch is one of 11 evergreen franchises for the Walt Disney Company that has surpassed $1B in retail sales last year (Stitch being in the top 10). A live-action sequel was announced last week." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].2 billion in 2019 to an impressive .6 billion in 2024, reflecting a tenfold increase. Stitch remains one of Disney's 11 evergreen franchises that surpassed billion in retail sales last year, placing it firmly within the top 10. A live-action sequel was announced just last week, further solidifying the franchise's enduring appeal." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].2 billion in 2019 to .6 billion in 2024.

AppWizard

July 1, 2025

The 5 best new Android apps and games you need to try this July

Fomodoro is a free productivity app developed by Arijit-05, featuring a Material Design interface that allows users to customize focus and break intervals while tracking productivity metrics. Marvel Mystic Mayhem is a free team-based auto-battler game developed by Exptional Global, with in-app purchases starting at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Keeping pace with the ever-evolving landscape of Android applications can be a daunting task. However, for enthusiasts and productivity seekers alike, there are always fresh offerings to explore. This month, a selection of innovative apps and games has emerged, promising to enhance your digital experience. From productivity tools to engaging games, here’s a closer look at some noteworthy additions for July 2025. Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 In the quest for productivity, the Fomodoro app stands out as a compelling tool. Drawing inspiration from the Pomodoro technique, this app offers a sleek interface that seamlessly integrates with Android’s Material Design. Users can easily customize focus and break intervals, while a dedicated stats section tracks productivity streaks and other motivating metrics. It’s an elegant solution for those looking to refine their work habits. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, with in-app purchases starting at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Andy Walker / Android AuthorityKeeping up with the latest and greatest apps and games is difficult, but I’m here to help. One of my interests is uncovering and testing new Android apps and games, and each month for the past few years, I’ve detailed the best new products you should try. The July edition includes my new favorite productivity app, yet another unique Android launcher, and a new Marvel game for superhero fans.Let’s jump right in. Here are the best new Android apps and games you should try in July 2025. What is your favorite new Android app or game this month?8 votesFomodoro50%Marvel Mystic Mayhem0%Mur Launcher25%Phantom Tower13%One of SEGA's retro titles13%Another app or game (mention them in the comments section).0%Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 I’m constantly battling to refine and maximize my work life. In years past, I relied on a Pomodoro timer to keep my mind engaged, but I never found an app that enticed me to use it. Fomodoro is that app.Perhaps I appreciate its use of Material Design elements, making it look and feel like a part of Android. The timer itself packs in all the Pomodoro items you might need, including adjustments for setting focus and break lengths. A stats section also outlines streak lengths and other motivational productivity details. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Exptional Global I’m not going to pretend that Marvel Mystic Mayhem is my kind of game, but there are plenty of things I really like about this new title. For one, the cutscenes resemble comic book pages with striking visuals. There are plenty of heroes to play as (and battle against), from the Hulk to Scarlet Witch.The game is a team-based auto-battler. Each character’s list of attacks is triggered by swiping on a card. The gameplay can feel nebulous, and I never found tactics to play all that big of a role. Nevertheless, some Marvel fans and those who enjoy the game’s RPG elements will get a kick out of it. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, in-app purchases from $0.99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs I’m a simple man: I see a promising new launcher, I include it on this list. Mur Launcher is the latest to pique my interest, and that’s all down to its unique concept.The developer is heavily inspired by Windows Phone, especially Metro UI, which really comes through in the launcher’s tile-like aesthetic. The big difference is that these tiles can include multiple elements, from live information, widgets, and simple icons.I gave it a whirl for a day, and while I do see the potential in the concept, the app isn’t quite ready for prime time. It only just rolled out its open beta, so there’s a long road still to go, and I’m eager to revisit it in a few months. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower is a rather cute but frantic roguelike that sees the protagonist slowly ascending a 100-floor tower by defeating waves of enemies. The game includes RPG elements, so expect resource collection, gear mods to boost base stats, and various power-ups called glyphs.As you can probably imagine (and see for yourself with the trailer above), gameplay is fast-paced, but attacks feel weighty, and enemies can be genuinely terrifying when they swarm you.It’s certainly a fun game to pass the time, and thanks to its relatively low asking price, it’s not too demanding on the wallet, either. SEGA’s Classic free titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityThis month’s last title isn’t a new Android game nor a single title. However, it’s something that you’ll want to grab for your phone before it’s too late. A list of nine retro SEGA titles is currently free to download, and probably won’t be available on the Play Store for much longer. They’re being discontinued in the coming weeks.I’ve snagged and tucked them safely in my Play Store library. Gems include Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, Streets of Rage Classic, and Virtua Tennis Challenge.Consider this your final warning if you haven’t grabbed them all yet. Have you encountered a new Android app or game that I should have included? Let me know in the comments below. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99 Developer: Exptional Global For those who revel in the Marvel universe, Marvel Mystic Mayhem offers an engaging experience. With visually striking cutscenes reminiscent of comic book art, players can choose from a roster of iconic heroes, including the Hulk and Scarlet Witch. This team-based auto-battler allows players to trigger attacks through card swipes, although the gameplay may require some adaptation for those accustomed to more tactical approaches. Nevertheless, it’s a delightful addition for fans of the franchise. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, with in-app purchases from [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Andy Walker / Android AuthorityKeeping up with the latest and greatest apps and games is difficult, but I’m here to help. One of my interests is uncovering and testing new Android apps and games, and each month for the past few years, I’ve detailed the best new products you should try. The July edition includes my new favorite productivity app, yet another unique Android launcher, and a new Marvel game for superhero fans.Let’s jump right in. Here are the best new Android apps and games you should try in July 2025. What is your favorite new Android app or game this month?8 votesFomodoro50%Marvel Mystic Mayhem0%Mur Launcher25%Phantom Tower13%One of SEGA's retro titles13%Another app or game (mention them in the comments section).0%Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 I’m constantly battling to refine and maximize my work life. In years past, I relied on a Pomodoro timer to keep my mind engaged, but I never found an app that enticed me to use it. Fomodoro is that app.Perhaps I appreciate its use of Material Design elements, making it look and feel like a part of Android. The timer itself packs in all the Pomodoro items you might need, including adjustments for setting focus and break lengths. A stats section also outlines streak lengths and other motivational productivity details. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Exptional Global I’m not going to pretend that Marvel Mystic Mayhem is my kind of game, but there are plenty of things I really like about this new title. For one, the cutscenes resemble comic book pages with striking visuals. There are plenty of heroes to play as (and battle against), from the Hulk to Scarlet Witch.The game is a team-based auto-battler. Each character’s list of attacks is triggered by swiping on a card. The gameplay can feel nebulous, and I never found tactics to play all that big of a role. Nevertheless, some Marvel fans and those who enjoy the game’s RPG elements will get a kick out of it. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, in-app purchases from $0.99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs I’m a simple man: I see a promising new launcher, I include it on this list. Mur Launcher is the latest to pique my interest, and that’s all down to its unique concept.The developer is heavily inspired by Windows Phone, especially Metro UI, which really comes through in the launcher’s tile-like aesthetic. The big difference is that these tiles can include multiple elements, from live information, widgets, and simple icons.I gave it a whirl for a day, and while I do see the potential in the concept, the app isn’t quite ready for prime time. It only just rolled out its open beta, so there’s a long road still to go, and I’m eager to revisit it in a few months. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower is a rather cute but frantic roguelike that sees the protagonist slowly ascending a 100-floor tower by defeating waves of enemies. The game includes RPG elements, so expect resource collection, gear mods to boost base stats, and various power-ups called glyphs.As you can probably imagine (and see for yourself with the trailer above), gameplay is fast-paced, but attacks feel weighty, and enemies can be genuinely terrifying when they swarm you.It’s certainly a fun game to pass the time, and thanks to its relatively low asking price, it’s not too demanding on the wallet, either. SEGA’s Classic free titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityThis month’s last title isn’t a new Android game nor a single title. However, it’s something that you’ll want to grab for your phone before it’s too late. A list of nine retro SEGA titles is currently free to download, and probably won’t be available on the Play Store for much longer. They’re being discontinued in the coming weeks.I’ve snagged and tucked them safely in my Play Store library. Gems include Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, Streets of Rage Classic, and Virtua Tennis Challenge.Consider this your final warning if you haven’t grabbed them all yet. Have you encountered a new Android app or game that I should have included? Let me know in the comments below. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs Mur Launcher introduces a refreshing take on Android customization, drawing inspiration from the aesthetics of Windows Phone. Its tile-like interface allows for a unique arrangement of live information, widgets, and icons. While still in its open beta phase, the launcher shows promise, though it may need further refinement before it reaches its full potential. Early adopters may find it worth exploring as it evolves. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, with in-app purchases starting at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Andy Walker / Android AuthorityKeeping up with the latest and greatest apps and games is difficult, but I’m here to help. One of my interests is uncovering and testing new Android apps and games, and each month for the past few years, I’ve detailed the best new products you should try. The July edition includes my new favorite productivity app, yet another unique Android launcher, and a new Marvel game for superhero fans.Let’s jump right in. Here are the best new Android apps and games you should try in July 2025. What is your favorite new Android app or game this month?8 votesFomodoro50%Marvel Mystic Mayhem0%Mur Launcher25%Phantom Tower13%One of SEGA's retro titles13%Another app or game (mention them in the comments section).0%Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 I’m constantly battling to refine and maximize my work life. In years past, I relied on a Pomodoro timer to keep my mind engaged, but I never found an app that enticed me to use it. Fomodoro is that app.Perhaps I appreciate its use of Material Design elements, making it look and feel like a part of Android. The timer itself packs in all the Pomodoro items you might need, including adjustments for setting focus and break lengths. A stats section also outlines streak lengths and other motivational productivity details. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Exptional Global I’m not going to pretend that Marvel Mystic Mayhem is my kind of game, but there are plenty of things I really like about this new title. For one, the cutscenes resemble comic book pages with striking visuals. There are plenty of heroes to play as (and battle against), from the Hulk to Scarlet Witch.The game is a team-based auto-battler. Each character’s list of attacks is triggered by swiping on a card. The gameplay can feel nebulous, and I never found tactics to play all that big of a role. Nevertheless, some Marvel fans and those who enjoy the game’s RPG elements will get a kick out of it. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, in-app purchases from $0.99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs I’m a simple man: I see a promising new launcher, I include it on this list. Mur Launcher is the latest to pique my interest, and that’s all down to its unique concept.The developer is heavily inspired by Windows Phone, especially Metro UI, which really comes through in the launcher’s tile-like aesthetic. The big difference is that these tiles can include multiple elements, from live information, widgets, and simple icons.I gave it a whirl for a day, and while I do see the potential in the concept, the app isn’t quite ready for prime time. It only just rolled out its open beta, so there’s a long road still to go, and I’m eager to revisit it in a few months. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower is a rather cute but frantic roguelike that sees the protagonist slowly ascending a 100-floor tower by defeating waves of enemies. The game includes RPG elements, so expect resource collection, gear mods to boost base stats, and various power-ups called glyphs.As you can probably imagine (and see for yourself with the trailer above), gameplay is fast-paced, but attacks feel weighty, and enemies can be genuinely terrifying when they swarm you.It’s certainly a fun game to pass the time, and thanks to its relatively low asking price, it’s not too demanding on the wallet, either. SEGA’s Classic free titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityThis month’s last title isn’t a new Android game nor a single title. However, it’s something that you’ll want to grab for your phone before it’s too late. A list of nine retro SEGA titles is currently free to download, and probably won’t be available on the Play Store for much longer. They’re being discontinued in the coming weeks.I’ve snagged and tucked them safely in my Play Store library. Gems include Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, Streets of Rage Classic, and Virtua Tennis Challenge.Consider this your final warning if you haven’t grabbed them all yet. Have you encountered a new Android app or game that I should have included? Let me know in the comments below. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower presents a whimsical yet intense roguelike experience, inviting players to ascend a 100-floor tower by vanquishing waves of enemies. With RPG elements woven into its gameplay, players can collect resources, modify gear, and utilize power-ups known as glyphs. The fast-paced action and engaging mechanics make it an enjoyable way to pass the time, all while being easy on the wallet. SEGA’s Classic Free Titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA This month also brings an exciting opportunity for retro gaming enthusiasts. A collection of nine classic SEGA titles is currently available for free download, but time is of the essence as these offerings will soon be discontinued from the Play Store. Titles such as Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, and Streets of Rage Classic are among the gems that should not be overlooked. Consider this a gentle reminder to secure these nostalgic favorites before they vanish. Have you stumbled upon a new Android app or game that deserves attention? Share your thoughts in the comments below. For tips or inquiries, feel free to reach out to our team at news@androidauthority.com. Your insights are always welcome, whether you choose to remain anonymous or wish to receive credit for your contributions." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99. Players can choose from various Marvel heroes, and the game features comic book-style cutscenes. Mur Launcher is a free Android launcher developed by Incendiary Pigs, inspired by Windows Phone's Metro UI. It features a tile-like aesthetic that can display live information, widgets, and icons, currently in open beta. Phantom Tower is a free roguelike game developed by Horien Studio, with in-app purchases starting at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Keeping pace with the ever-evolving landscape of Android applications can be a daunting task. However, for enthusiasts and productivity seekers alike, there are always fresh offerings to explore. This month, a selection of innovative apps and games has emerged, promising to enhance your digital experience. From productivity tools to engaging games, here’s a closer look at some noteworthy additions for July 2025. Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 In the quest for productivity, the Fomodoro app stands out as a compelling tool. Drawing inspiration from the Pomodoro technique, this app offers a sleek interface that seamlessly integrates with Android’s Material Design. Users can easily customize focus and break intervals, while a dedicated stats section tracks productivity streaks and other motivating metrics. It’s an elegant solution for those looking to refine their work habits. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, with in-app purchases starting at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Andy Walker / Android AuthorityKeeping up with the latest and greatest apps and games is difficult, but I’m here to help. One of my interests is uncovering and testing new Android apps and games, and each month for the past few years, I’ve detailed the best new products you should try. The July edition includes my new favorite productivity app, yet another unique Android launcher, and a new Marvel game for superhero fans.Let’s jump right in. Here are the best new Android apps and games you should try in July 2025. What is your favorite new Android app or game this month?8 votesFomodoro50%Marvel Mystic Mayhem0%Mur Launcher25%Phantom Tower13%One of SEGA's retro titles13%Another app or game (mention them in the comments section).0%Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 I’m constantly battling to refine and maximize my work life. In years past, I relied on a Pomodoro timer to keep my mind engaged, but I never found an app that enticed me to use it. Fomodoro is that app.Perhaps I appreciate its use of Material Design elements, making it look and feel like a part of Android. The timer itself packs in all the Pomodoro items you might need, including adjustments for setting focus and break lengths. A stats section also outlines streak lengths and other motivational productivity details. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Exptional Global I’m not going to pretend that Marvel Mystic Mayhem is my kind of game, but there are plenty of things I really like about this new title. For one, the cutscenes resemble comic book pages with striking visuals. There are plenty of heroes to play as (and battle against), from the Hulk to Scarlet Witch.The game is a team-based auto-battler. Each character’s list of attacks is triggered by swiping on a card. The gameplay can feel nebulous, and I never found tactics to play all that big of a role. Nevertheless, some Marvel fans and those who enjoy the game’s RPG elements will get a kick out of it. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, in-app purchases from $0.99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs I’m a simple man: I see a promising new launcher, I include it on this list. Mur Launcher is the latest to pique my interest, and that’s all down to its unique concept.The developer is heavily inspired by Windows Phone, especially Metro UI, which really comes through in the launcher’s tile-like aesthetic. The big difference is that these tiles can include multiple elements, from live information, widgets, and simple icons.I gave it a whirl for a day, and while I do see the potential in the concept, the app isn’t quite ready for prime time. It only just rolled out its open beta, so there’s a long road still to go, and I’m eager to revisit it in a few months. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower is a rather cute but frantic roguelike that sees the protagonist slowly ascending a 100-floor tower by defeating waves of enemies. The game includes RPG elements, so expect resource collection, gear mods to boost base stats, and various power-ups called glyphs.As you can probably imagine (and see for yourself with the trailer above), gameplay is fast-paced, but attacks feel weighty, and enemies can be genuinely terrifying when they swarm you.It’s certainly a fun game to pass the time, and thanks to its relatively low asking price, it’s not too demanding on the wallet, either. SEGA’s Classic free titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityThis month’s last title isn’t a new Android game nor a single title. However, it’s something that you’ll want to grab for your phone before it’s too late. A list of nine retro SEGA titles is currently free to download, and probably won’t be available on the Play Store for much longer. They’re being discontinued in the coming weeks.I’ve snagged and tucked them safely in my Play Store library. Gems include Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, Streets of Rage Classic, and Virtua Tennis Challenge.Consider this your final warning if you haven’t grabbed them all yet. Have you encountered a new Android app or game that I should have included? Let me know in the comments below. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99 Developer: Exptional Global For those who revel in the Marvel universe, Marvel Mystic Mayhem offers an engaging experience. With visually striking cutscenes reminiscent of comic book art, players can choose from a roster of iconic heroes, including the Hulk and Scarlet Witch. This team-based auto-battler allows players to trigger attacks through card swipes, although the gameplay may require some adaptation for those accustomed to more tactical approaches. Nevertheless, it’s a delightful addition for fans of the franchise. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, with in-app purchases from [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Andy Walker / Android AuthorityKeeping up with the latest and greatest apps and games is difficult, but I’m here to help. One of my interests is uncovering and testing new Android apps and games, and each month for the past few years, I’ve detailed the best new products you should try. The July edition includes my new favorite productivity app, yet another unique Android launcher, and a new Marvel game for superhero fans.Let’s jump right in. Here are the best new Android apps and games you should try in July 2025. What is your favorite new Android app or game this month?8 votesFomodoro50%Marvel Mystic Mayhem0%Mur Launcher25%Phantom Tower13%One of SEGA's retro titles13%Another app or game (mention them in the comments section).0%Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 I’m constantly battling to refine and maximize my work life. In years past, I relied on a Pomodoro timer to keep my mind engaged, but I never found an app that enticed me to use it. Fomodoro is that app.Perhaps I appreciate its use of Material Design elements, making it look and feel like a part of Android. The timer itself packs in all the Pomodoro items you might need, including adjustments for setting focus and break lengths. A stats section also outlines streak lengths and other motivational productivity details. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Exptional Global I’m not going to pretend that Marvel Mystic Mayhem is my kind of game, but there are plenty of things I really like about this new title. For one, the cutscenes resemble comic book pages with striking visuals. There are plenty of heroes to play as (and battle against), from the Hulk to Scarlet Witch.The game is a team-based auto-battler. Each character’s list of attacks is triggered by swiping on a card. The gameplay can feel nebulous, and I never found tactics to play all that big of a role. Nevertheless, some Marvel fans and those who enjoy the game’s RPG elements will get a kick out of it. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, in-app purchases from $0.99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs I’m a simple man: I see a promising new launcher, I include it on this list. Mur Launcher is the latest to pique my interest, and that’s all down to its unique concept.The developer is heavily inspired by Windows Phone, especially Metro UI, which really comes through in the launcher’s tile-like aesthetic. The big difference is that these tiles can include multiple elements, from live information, widgets, and simple icons.I gave it a whirl for a day, and while I do see the potential in the concept, the app isn’t quite ready for prime time. It only just rolled out its open beta, so there’s a long road still to go, and I’m eager to revisit it in a few months. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower is a rather cute but frantic roguelike that sees the protagonist slowly ascending a 100-floor tower by defeating waves of enemies. The game includes RPG elements, so expect resource collection, gear mods to boost base stats, and various power-ups called glyphs.As you can probably imagine (and see for yourself with the trailer above), gameplay is fast-paced, but attacks feel weighty, and enemies can be genuinely terrifying when they swarm you.It’s certainly a fun game to pass the time, and thanks to its relatively low asking price, it’s not too demanding on the wallet, either. SEGA’s Classic free titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityThis month’s last title isn’t a new Android game nor a single title. However, it’s something that you’ll want to grab for your phone before it’s too late. A list of nine retro SEGA titles is currently free to download, and probably won’t be available on the Play Store for much longer. They’re being discontinued in the coming weeks.I’ve snagged and tucked them safely in my Play Store library. Gems include Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, Streets of Rage Classic, and Virtua Tennis Challenge.Consider this your final warning if you haven’t grabbed them all yet. Have you encountered a new Android app or game that I should have included? Let me know in the comments below. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs Mur Launcher introduces a refreshing take on Android customization, drawing inspiration from the aesthetics of Windows Phone. Its tile-like interface allows for a unique arrangement of live information, widgets, and icons. While still in its open beta phase, the launcher shows promise, though it may need further refinement before it reaches its full potential. Early adopters may find it worth exploring as it evolves. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, with in-app purchases starting at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Andy Walker / Android AuthorityKeeping up with the latest and greatest apps and games is difficult, but I’m here to help. One of my interests is uncovering and testing new Android apps and games, and each month for the past few years, I’ve detailed the best new products you should try. The July edition includes my new favorite productivity app, yet another unique Android launcher, and a new Marvel game for superhero fans.Let’s jump right in. Here are the best new Android apps and games you should try in July 2025. What is your favorite new Android app or game this month?8 votesFomodoro50%Marvel Mystic Mayhem0%Mur Launcher25%Phantom Tower13%One of SEGA's retro titles13%Another app or game (mention them in the comments section).0%Fomodoro A clean, Material-inspired interval timer to bolster your productivity. Price: Free Developer: Arijit-05 I’m constantly battling to refine and maximize my work life. In years past, I relied on a Pomodoro timer to keep my mind engaged, but I never found an app that enticed me to use it. Fomodoro is that app.Perhaps I appreciate its use of Material Design elements, making it look and feel like a part of Android. The timer itself packs in all the Pomodoro items you might need, including adjustments for setting focus and break lengths. A stats section also outlines streak lengths and other motivational productivity details. Marvel Mystic Mayhem Marvel fans, assemble! Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Exptional Global I’m not going to pretend that Marvel Mystic Mayhem is my kind of game, but there are plenty of things I really like about this new title. For one, the cutscenes resemble comic book pages with striking visuals. There are plenty of heroes to play as (and battle against), from the Hulk to Scarlet Witch.The game is a team-based auto-battler. Each character’s list of attacks is triggered by swiping on a card. The gameplay can feel nebulous, and I never found tactics to play all that big of a role. Nevertheless, some Marvel fans and those who enjoy the game’s RPG elements will get a kick out of it. Mur Launcher This new Android launcher takes a leaf from Windows Phone’s playbook. Price: Free, in-app purchases from $0.99 Developer: Incendiary Pigs I’m a simple man: I see a promising new launcher, I include it on this list. Mur Launcher is the latest to pique my interest, and that’s all down to its unique concept.The developer is heavily inspired by Windows Phone, especially Metro UI, which really comes through in the launcher’s tile-like aesthetic. The big difference is that these tiles can include multiple elements, from live information, widgets, and simple icons.I gave it a whirl for a day, and while I do see the potential in the concept, the app isn’t quite ready for prime time. It only just rolled out its open beta, so there’s a long road still to go, and I’m eager to revisit it in a few months. Phantom Tower Why do we climb the tower? I’m not sure, but we do. Price: Free, in-app purchases start at $0.99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower is a rather cute but frantic roguelike that sees the protagonist slowly ascending a 100-floor tower by defeating waves of enemies. The game includes RPG elements, so expect resource collection, gear mods to boost base stats, and various power-ups called glyphs.As you can probably imagine (and see for yourself with the trailer above), gameplay is fast-paced, but attacks feel weighty, and enemies can be genuinely terrifying when they swarm you.It’s certainly a fun game to pass the time, and thanks to its relatively low asking price, it’s not too demanding on the wallet, either. SEGA’s Classic free titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA Nick Fernandez / Android AuthorityThis month’s last title isn’t a new Android game nor a single title. However, it’s something that you’ll want to grab for your phone before it’s too late. A list of nine retro SEGA titles is currently free to download, and probably won’t be available on the Play Store for much longer. They’re being discontinued in the coming weeks.I’ve snagged and tucked them safely in my Play Store library. Gems include Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, Streets of Rage Classic, and Virtua Tennis Challenge.Consider this your final warning if you haven’t grabbed them all yet. Have you encountered a new Android app or game that I should have included? Let me know in the comments below. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99 Developer: Horien Studio Phantom Tower presents a whimsical yet intense roguelike experience, inviting players to ascend a 100-floor tower by vanquishing waves of enemies. With RPG elements woven into its gameplay, players can collect resources, modify gear, and utilize power-ups known as glyphs. The fast-paced action and engaging mechanics make it an enjoyable way to pass the time, all while being easy on the wallet. SEGA’s Classic Free Titles They’re SEGA classics. They’re free. What more do you want? Price: Free Developer: SEGA This month also brings an exciting opportunity for retro gaming enthusiasts. A collection of nine classic SEGA titles is currently available for free download, but time is of the essence as these offerings will soon be discontinued from the Play Store. Titles such as Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, and Streets of Rage Classic are among the gems that should not be overlooked. Consider this a gentle reminder to secure these nostalgic favorites before they vanish. Have you stumbled upon a new Android app or game that deserves attention? Share your thoughts in the comments below. For tips or inquiries, feel free to reach out to our team at news@androidauthority.com. Your insights are always welcome, whether you choose to remain anonymous or wish to receive credit for your contributions." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99. Players ascend a 100-floor tower by defeating enemies, incorporating RPG elements such as resource collection and gear modifications. A collection of nine classic SEGA titles is available for free download, including Crazy Taxi Classic, Sonic CD Classic, and Streets of Rage Classic, but will soon be discontinued from the Play Store.

AppWizard

June 27, 2025

2025 Steam Summer Sale Begins

Valve has launched the 2025 Steam Summer Sale, which started at 10 AM PT (1 PM ET) and will run until July 10, 2025. Players can earn free stickers through their Discovery Queue while browsing discounted titles. The main storefront has been redesigned to highlight significant price reductions on various games, including several that were featured in last year's sale. Highlighted discounts include: - Blasphemous – .49 (90% off) - Catherine Classic – .99 (75% off) - Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy – .99 (90% off) - Crypt of the Necrodancer – .49 (90% off) - Final Fantasy VII – .79 (60% off) - Final Fantasy VIII – .79 (60% off) - Gris – .49 (90% off) - House Flipper – .49 (90% off) - Little Nightmares 2 – .99 (90% off) - Moonlighter – .99 (85% off) - Spiritfarer – .99 (90% off) - Steamworld Dig – [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Valve has officially launched the 2025 Steam Summer Sale, a highly anticipated event for PC gaming enthusiasts. This year’s sale commenced at 10 AM PT (1 PM ET) and will continue until July 10, 2025. As is customary, players can explore their Discovery Queue to earn free stickers while browsing through an array of discounted titles. The main storefront has also undergone a slight redesign, showcasing significant price reductions on various games. Notably, several of these titles were featured in last year's sale, offering a second chance for those who may have missed out. Highlighted Discounts This year, a selection of games has been particularly spotlighted for their remarkable discounts. Here are some of the standout offers: Blasphemous – .49 (90% off) Catherine Classic – .99 (75% off) Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy – .99 (90% off) Crypt of the Necrodancer – .49 (90% off) Final Fantasy VII – .79 (60% off) Final Fantasy VIII – .79 (60% off) Gris – .49 (90% off) House Flipper – .49 (90% off) Little Nightmares 2 – .99 (90% off) Moonlighter – .99 (85% off) Spiritfarer – .99 (90% off) Steamworld Dig – [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Image via Atlus Jenni Lada | Published: Jun 26, 2025 05:00 pm Valve announced that the 2025 Steam Summer Sale is now live and covers an array of PC games. It will run 10am PT/1pm ET on July 10, 2025. As usual, going through your Discovery Queue can earn you free stickers. The storefront’s main page also reorganized a bit to show deep discounts. However, given how these go, many are also titles that were reduced last year in case you missed them. Recommended Videos A number of titles were called out this year as being especially cheap. Here are some of the most notable discounts on some major PC games available during the sale. Blasphemous – $2.49 (90% off) Catherine Classic – $4.99 (75% off) Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy – $3.99 (90% off) Crypt of the Necrodancer – $1.49 (90% off) Final Fantasy VII – $4.79 (60% off) Final Fantasy VIII – $4.79 (60% off) Gris – $1.49 (90%) House Flipper – $2.49 (90% off) Little Nightmares 2 – $2.99 (90% off) Moonlighter – $2.99 (85% off) Spiritfarer – $2.99 (90% off) Steamworld Dig – $0.89 (91% off) Steins;Gate – $2.99 (90% off) Ultra Street Fighter IV – $3.89 (87% off) Undertale – $2.49 (75% off) As for Steam Deck, here are some of the most notable 2025 Summer Sale discounts that Valve noted are among the ones most-played on handheld gaming PCs. Balatro – $13.49 (10% off) Baldur’s Gate 3 – $47.99 (20% off) Blue Prince – $25.49 (15% off) Death Stranding Director’s Cut – $15.99 (60% off) Elden Ring – $35.99 (40% off) Fields of Mistria – $11.19 (20% off) Hades 2 – $26.99 (10% off) Hello Kitty Island Adventure – $29.99 (25% off) Hollow Knight – $7.49 (50% off) Lies of P – $29.99 (50% off) Monster Hunter: World – $9.89 (67% off) Palworld – $22.49 (25% off) Persona 5 Royal – $23.99 (60% off) Resident Evil 4 – $19.99 (50% off) Stardew Valley – $7.49 (50% off) The 2025 Steam Summer Sale on PC games is in effect until July 10, 2025. Siliconera is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].89 (91% off) Steins;Gate – .99 (90% off) Ultra Street Fighter IV – .89 (87% off) Undertale – .49 (75% off) Steam Deck Discounts For those utilizing the Steam Deck, Valve has also highlighted several popular titles that are now available at attractive prices during the sale: Balatro – .49 (10% off) Baldur’s Gate 3 – .99 (20% off) Blue Prince – .49 (15% off) Death Stranding Director’s Cut – .99 (60% off) Elden Ring – .99 (40% off) Fields of Mistria – .19 (20% off) Hades 2 – .99 (10% off) Hello Kitty Island Adventure – .99 (25% off) Hollow Knight – .49 (50% off) Lies of P – .99 (50% off) Monster Hunter: World – .89 (67% off) Palworld – .49 (25% off) Persona 5 Royal – .99 (60% off) Resident Evil 4 – .99 (50% off) Stardew Valley – .49 (50% off) The 2025 Steam Summer Sale promises an exciting opportunity for gamers to expand their libraries at significantly reduced prices, ensuring that both seasoned players and newcomers can find something to enjoy. Siliconera is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].89 (91% off) - Steins;Gate – .99 (90% off) - Ultra Street Fighter IV – .89 (87% off) - Undertale – .49 (75% off) For Steam Deck users, notable discounts include: - Balatro – .49 (10% off) - Baldur’s Gate 3 – .99 (20% off) - Blue Prince – .49 (15% off) - Death Stranding Director’s Cut – .99 (60% off) - Elden Ring – .99 (40% off) - Fields of Mistria – .19 (20% off) - Hades 2 – .99 (10% off) - Hello Kitty Island Adventure – .99 (25% off) - Hollow Knight – .49 (50% off) - Lies of P – .99 (50% off) - Monster Hunter: World – .89 (67% off) - Palworld – .49 (25% off) - Persona 5 Royal – .99 (60% off) - Resident Evil 4 – .99 (50% off) - Stardew Valley – .49 (50% off)

AppWizard

June 17, 2025

WhatsApp introduces ads after previously vowing ‘we don’t sell’ them

Messaging app WhatsApp has introduced advertisements for the first time, changing its previous ad-free policy. Ads will initially appear only in the Updates tab, specifically in the Status section, and will not interfere with personal messaging. The company emphasized that personal messages, calls, and statuses remain end-to-end encrypted, and it will not sell or share users' phone numbers with advertisers. Ads will be targeted based on user location, language, and previous ad interactions, and users linked to the Accounts Center may see ads influenced by their activity on other Meta platforms. WhatsApp's founders previously expressed their commitment to an ad-free experience in a 2012 blog post, arguing that advertising detracts from the user experience. WhatsApp was not always free; it originally charged an annual subscription fee of [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Messaging app WhatsApp has taken a significant step by introducing advertisements for the first time, marking a notable shift from its original stance against ads. Historically, the app, known for its distinctive bright green interface, prided itself on being ad-free, a rarity among major tech platforms. In a 2012 blog post, WhatsApp co-founders expressed their commitment to a user-focused experience, famously quoting Tyler Durden from Fight Club: “Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy shit we don’t need.” However, the recent announcement titled “Helping you Find More Channels and Businesses on WhatsApp” reveals that the app will now feature ads, albeit initially limited to the Updates tab. This means users can expect to see advertisements in the Status section, akin to the 24-hour Stories feature found on other Meta platforms like Instagram and Facebook, without disrupting their private messaging experience. What’s new? Adverts (Picture: Shutterstock) WhatsApp reassured users that those who primarily use the app for personal communication will not notice any changes to their messaging experience. This transition aligns WhatsApp more closely with its parent company Meta’s other applications, which are heavily ad-supported. How will apps be targeted? Meta has emphasized that the introduction of ads will be handled with privacy in mind. The company stated that personal messages, calls, and statuses will remain end-to-end encrypted, ensuring that no one, including Meta, can access them. Ads will be tailored based on factors such as location, language, and user interactions with previous advertisements. Additionally, users who have linked their WhatsApp accounts to the Accounts Center may receive ads influenced by their activity across other Meta platforms. How the new ads will look (Picture: Meta) Meta has committed to never selling or sharing users' phone numbers with advertisers and has assured that personal messages will not be utilized for targeted advertising. What did WhatsApp say about ads previously? Reflecting on its past, WhatsApp’s founders articulated their aversion to advertising in a 2012 blog post, stating, “No one wakes up excited to see more advertising.” They emphasized their dedication to enhancing user experience rather than focusing on ad revenue, arguing that the presence of ads detracts from the core mission of providing reliable messaging. They maintained that their engineering efforts were directed towards improving the app rather than mining user data. The blog post from June 2012 (Picture: WhatsApp) ‘The beginning of deeper data collection’? Despite assurances from Meta regarding user privacy, some industry experts express concerns that this move could signal a broader shift towards increased data collection. Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, remarked that the introduction of ads in messaging apps often precedes more invasive data practices. He cautioned that while Meta claims chats remain private, its business model fundamentally relies on data-driven surveillance. Briedis urged European users to remain vigilant, as the gradual introduction of ads could lead to a future where private messaging becomes monetized and monitored. Changes are coming (Picture: Meta) Was WhatsApp always free? WhatsApp was not always a free service; it originally charged an annual subscription fee of [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: What’s new? Adverts (Picture: Shutterstock) Messaging app WhatsApp has introduced adverts for the first time, a departure from the anti-ad ethos it had when first set up. The famous bright green app had been unusual in major tech apps in not allowing adverts on the platform. ‘We don’t sell ads’, they said in a 2012 blog post quoting Tyler Durden from Fight Club: ‘Advertising has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy shit we don’t need.’ Now, even they will be sending us to chase cars, clothes, doggy sunglasses, and mini washing machines for underwear that fit on your bedside table. A new post titled, euphemistically, ‘Helping you Find More Channels and Businesses on WhatsApp’, revealed the change yesterday. For now, ads will only be seen in the Updates tab. This means you won’t see ads for vitamins or foot scrubs popping up in between your private messages. How the new ads will look (Picture: Meta) The company said: ‘If you only use WhatsApp to chat with friends and loved ones there is no change to your experience at all.’ But it marks a shift towards becoming more like Meta’s ad-heavy other big apps, Instagram and Facebook. For now, ads will only appear in Status, which is similar to the 24-hour Stories function on their other apps. How will apps be targeted? Meta said they had built these features ‘in the most private way possible’: ‘Your personal messages, calls, and statuses remain end-to-end encrypted, meaning no one (not even us) can see or hear them.’ They said they would use information like country or city, language, Channels followed, and previous ad interaction to guide which ads are shown. Changes are coming (Picture: Meta) Those who had added WhatsApp to Accounts Center could be shown ads based on information from across their other Meta accounts too. They promised they would ‘never sell or share your phone number to advertisers’ and personal messages and calls would not be used for targeted ads. What did WhatsApp say about ads previously? A 2012 blog post from founders Jan Koum and Brian Acton said: ‘No one wakes up excited to see more advertising, no one goes to sleep thinking about the ads they’ll see tomorrow. ‘We know people go to sleep excited about who they chatted with that day (and disappointed about who they didn’t). We want WhatsApp to be the product that keeps you awake… and that you reach for in the morning. No one jumps up from a nap and runs to see an advertisement. The blog post from June 2012 (Picture: WhatsApp) ‘Advertising isn’t just the disruption of aesthetics, the insults to your intelligence and the interruption of your train of thought. ‘At every company that sells ads, a significant portion of their engineering team spends their day tuning data mining, writing better code to collect all your personal data, upgrading the servers that hold all the data and making sure it’s all being logged and collated and sliced and packaged and shipped out… And at the end of the day the result of it all is a slightly different advertising banner in your browser or on your mobile screen. ‘Remember, when advertising is involved you the user are the product. ‘At WhatsApp, our engineers spend all their time fixing bugs, adding new features and ironing out all the little intricacies in our task of bringing rich, affordable, reliable messaging to every phone in the world. That’s our product and that’s our passion. Your data isn’t even in the picture. We are simply not interested in any of it. ‘When people ask us why we charge for WhatsApp, we say “Have you considered the alternative?’ ‘The beginning of deeper data collection’? Meta has insisted that personal messages will be unchanged, but some fear this move could be opening the door to more significant changes later. Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, said: ‘Ads in WhatsApp aren’t just a distraction – they’re a signal of what may come next. ‘When advertising enters a messaging app, it often marks the beginning of deeper data collection. Meta says your chats are private, but its business model relies on data-driven surveillance. This isn’t just about pop-ups; it’s about protecting your privacy. Ads will be kept away from personal messages – at least for now (Picture: Meta) ‘Europe’s data protection laws were created to guard against exactly this kind of gradual overreach. Meta’s so-called ‘optional’ data-sharing is rarely as optional as it sounds – there’s often a trade-off, and too often, that trade-off is your personal information. ‘We’ve seen this pattern before, with small updates that pave the way for much bigger changes. The introduction of ads could signal a wider shift away from private messaging toward monetised, monitored communication. European users should pay close attention – your messages may not stay as private as you think.’ Was WhatsApp always free? No. In its early years, there was an annual subscription fee of $0.99 (which worked out at around 64p to 69p in the UK). Imposed after the first year (which was free), this was part the reason they could afford to go without ads. When Facebook bought the company in 2016, they scrapped the charge to focus on growth, saying some users were worried about losing access if they didn’t have a debit or credit card number. They still didn’t introduce ads at the time, saying they wanted to explore other ways of making money from WhatsApp, like making the app a tool to communicate information with businesses and organisations such as banks and airlines. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page. MORE: Eminem’s music company ‘sues Meta for $109,000,000 over 243 of his songs’ MORE: Family business ‘£10,000 out of pocket’ after Meta blocks their accounts for 12 weeks News Updates Stay on top of the headlines with daily email updates." temperature="0.3"].99 after the first year of use. This model allowed the app to operate without advertisements. Following Facebook's acquisition of WhatsApp in 2016, the subscription fee was eliminated to promote user growth, with the company exploring alternative revenue streams, such as facilitating communication for businesses and organizations. " max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.7" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99 before Facebook acquired the company in 2016 and eliminated the fee to encourage growth.