companion Archives

AppWizard

May 25, 2026

I’m glad they didn’t release Subnautica 2 all at once—the episodic early access structure has me even more excited to explore its alien ocean

Subnautica 2, currently in early access, sold 2 million copies within twelve hours of its launch. The game features a narrative involving an AI companion named NOA and the remnants of previous colonists, with players encountering the Masefield Syndrome linked to a colossal alien tree. The game includes a survival-crafting element where players must construct a Tadpole mini-sub to explore the ocean. It integrates tools and gadgets into the narrative, enhancing gameplay and driving players to uncover mysteries. The game has received some criticism for its stringent end-user license agreement but has made a significant impact in the gaming community.

Winsage

May 25, 2026

Microsoft Copilot Returns as a Sidebar in Windows 11

Microsoft is updating the Copilot AI integration within Windows 11, reintroducing it as a sidebar application similar to its original design from 2024. Users can dock Copilot on either side of the screen, which adjusts the user interface to accommodate it. The redesigned Copilot integrates more seamlessly with desktop elements. Microsoft has provided two methods for users to remove the Copilot application: one involves editing the Windows Registry to create a key that instructs Windows to remove Copilot, while the other uses a group policy setting applicable only if Copilot was not user-installed.

Winsage

May 22, 2026

Finally, a Great Free Radio App for Windows

Many music enthusiasts still prefer traditional radio for its human touch and curated playlists, which introduce hidden gems that algorithm-driven platforms may miss. Stations like KEXP, Indie XFM, and SomaFM offer commercial-free experiences for exploring new sounds. Trdo is a free, open-source application for Windows that enhances the online radio listening experience. Users can download it from the Microsoft Store and add their favorite stations through a search tool or by manually entering PLS file links. The app features an intuitive interface for playback control from the system tray, tracks recently played songs, and allows users to tag favorites. It also provides links to popular music services like Spotify and YouTube Music, facilitating transitions from radio to curated playlists.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Realm of Ink is a beautiful Hades-style roguelike with action-packed gameplay to boot

Realm of Ink is a roguelike game currently in early access, featuring a stunning art style inspired by Chinese ink-wash painting and fast-paced action reminiscent of Hades and Dead Cells. Players control Red, a swordswoman on a quest to defeat a Fox Demon, navigating arenas filled with enemies and utilizing randomized power-ups to enhance gameplay. The game includes a unique 'pet' system with a companion named Momo that can change forms based on the player's Ink Gem loadout. It is available for purchase on Steam for PC and Steam Deck, as well as on console, with a full 1.0 release scheduled for May 26.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

Google’s AI Studio enables rapid Android app creation in minutes

Google has introduced enhanced web-based AI tools in its AI Studio platform, allowing users to generate complete native Android applications from natural-language prompts. This process enables individuals without programming skills to create installable APKs in minutes. The Build mode accepts plain-English descriptions to construct comprehensive native Android projects, which can then be customized in Android Studio. The tools support integration with third-party APIs and Web3 SDKs, allowing AI-generated apps to interact with blockchain functionalities. This development offers opportunities for the cryptocurrency sector, enabling decentralized finance protocols or wallet providers to create lightweight companion apps without extensive engineering teams. The integration with the Android ecosystem positions Google to reshape competitive dynamics in mobile app development. However, there are security concerns regarding the AI-generated code, particularly related to vulnerabilities in rapidly generated mobile apps that interact with smart contracts.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

This Google AI tool can now build Android apps from text prompts

Users can now create full native Android applications from text prompts within the Google AI Studio. These applications are built using Kotlin and Jetpack Compose, allowing for installation and sharing like traditional Android apps. The platform includes features for GPS, Bluetooth, and NFC, and offers an embedded Android Emulator for instant app previews. Examples include a harmonium app for the Pixel Fold and a guitar practice companion app that integrates YouTube. Google plans to introduce further enhancements, including Firebase integrations and simplified publishing options for the Play Store.

AppWizard

May 19, 2026

Valve Just Made Some Big Changes to Steam Tags, And The New Additions Shed Light on Recent Trends

Valve updated Steam's tagging system on May 18th, removing 28 outdated tags, introducing 17 new ones, and adjusting existing categories. The new tags include Bullet Heaven, Desktop Companion, Organizing, Cleaning, Decorating, Wuxia, Xianxia, Falling Blocks, Espionage, Samurai, Zoo, Wolves, Capybaras, Animals, Cult, Poker, and Language Learning. The retired tags include 3D Vision, Ambient, America, Blood, Crowdfunded, Cult Classic, Documentary, Drama, Dungeons & Dragons, Electronic, Experience, Feature Film, Foreign, GameMaker, Games Workshop, Illuminati, Kickstarter, LEGO, Masterpiece, Mature, Movie, Narration, NSFW, Roguevania, RPGMaker, Warhammer 40K, Web Publishing, and Well-Written. Existing tags like Clicker and Conversation were rebranded to Incremental and Dialogue Heavy, respectively. The updates aim to improve user navigation and reflect current gaming trends.

AppWizard

May 19, 2026

Google’s new Gemini features will take all the annoying busywork off your plate

Google has introduced enhancements to its Gemini platform, including the Daily Brief feature that curates personalized morning digests using Gmail and Calendar data. The Gemini app for macOS will receive upgrades with Gemini Spark, which automates workflows involving local files and desktop tasks. Additionally, Android Halo will display live AI agent activity on phones, allowing users to monitor tasks without interrupting their workflow. Android Halo will be compatible with Gemini Spark and other AI agents later this year, with advanced capabilities expected for devices powered by Gemini Intelligence.

AppWizard

May 19, 2026

Paralives looks packed with tiny features I’ve been desperately wanting in The Sims for years

Paralives will launch in early access on May 25, following a delay last year. A nine-minute gameplay video showcases features such as adjustable height sliders for character creation, a build/buy mode that allows scaling and stacking objects without cheat codes, and snap-free clutter decorating for easier placement of items. Gameplay elements include flexible job scheduling, the ability to drag and select groups of characters, integration with Steam Workshop for custom content, distinct character "vibes," and a vegetarian toggle for dietary preferences.

Winsage

May 17, 2026

Microsoft is rebuilding XBOX and Windows 11 while Surface collects dust

Microsoft is making significant updates to Windows 11, including enhancements to the WinUI framework for improved user experience and a new rollback feature for drivers to prevent system crashes. The Xbox brand is rebranding with an all-caps style, reducing Game Pass prices, and discontinuing the "This is an Xbox" campaign while focusing on Project Helix. Windows 11 is also set to introduce a Low Latency Profile feature for better performance, particularly for gamers. Logitech's MX Master 4 mouse now supports native Windows 11 haptic effects. However, the Surface line remains stagnant, with outdated products compared to competitors like the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x, which offers better value and performance. The size of Windows 11 updates has increased, with some reaching up to 5GB, attributed to various factors including artificial intelligence.