depth Archives

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

Android 17: All new Features, Release Date, & Major Leaks So Far

Android 17 Beta 2 was unveiled in April 2026, introducing significant features aimed at enhancing user experience and supporting autonomous AI agents. Key features include: 1. A "Dual-Shade" UI redesign with a Split Control Center for notifications and customizable toggles. 2. A system-level Native App Lock for securing individual apps with biometric authentication. 3. Integration of Project Astra, enabling real-time contextual memory and live translation through the camera. 4. A "Frosted Glass" aesthetic with translucency and glassmorphism in UI elements. 5. Advanced desktop windowing capabilities for larger screens, including free-form resizing and a persistent taskbar. 6. A Battery Health Dashboard providing insights into battery performance. 7. Introduction of the RAW14 Image Format for professional-grade image capture and a redesigned Screen Recording toolbar for creators. The release roadmap includes developer previews completed by March 2026, public beta phases in April 2026, platform stability expected in June 2026, and a final public release anticipated in August/September 2026 with the Pixel 11. Devices expected to receive Android 17 include Pixel 7 and newer models, Samsung Galaxy S24, S25, S26 series, and flagships from OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Nothing.

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

This developer squeezed a full Minecraft server onto an ESP32, and it actually works

A developer named angelthebox has created a Minecraft server called Macerun that runs on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, using Minecraft version 1.16.5 rewritten in C. Key features include the ability for players to join the server, explore the world, place and break blocks, procedural world chunk generation, basic crafting mechanics with 2x2 recipes, in-game chat, and tracking of basic physics, health, and hunger. Changes to blocks are saved to the chip's flash memory. However, the server lacks mobs, 3x3 crafting recipes, and the ability to retain player inventories and positions after exiting. The source code is available on the Macerun GitHub page.

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

If you are planning to get the new Starfield Terran Armada DLC, here’s how to get 15% off

Starfield's latest DLC, Terran Armada, introduces a new faction connected to Earth with advanced technology and military strength. The DLC features a comprehensive questline, new locations, enemies, and systems that expand throughout the game world. It includes repeatable combat events called Incursions, a new morally ambiguous robot companion, and enhancements to outposts and exploration mechanics. Fanatical is offering a 15% discount on the DLC, making it the most affordable option currently available.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

Revisiting Redfall after its final update reveals the ghost of the game it wanted to be

Redfall, developed by Arkane Austin, was released in May 2023 and faced criticism for its open world, AI, and shooting mechanics. Following its launch, Arkane attempted to address these issues but was ultimately closed by Microsoft a year later. Before its closure, the studio released patch 1.4, which introduced a Community Standing system that allows players to enhance their skills through community tasks. This patch aimed to improve gameplay by encouraging exploration and interaction with the environment, offering rewards like fortified safehouse defenses and new abilities. Despite these improvements, core issues such as unsatisfactory combat and shallow NPC interactions persisted, limiting the game's narrative depth and player engagement.

BetaBeacon

April 11, 2026

В PRAGMATA They showed a union between a human and an android on the Moon

Capcom unveiled a new trailer for their sci-fi action film PRAGMATA, showcasing the relationships between the main characters Hugh and the android Diana. The game features a unique blend of action and hacking mechanics, with a focus on character interactions. The release date is set for April 17, 2026, on various gaming platforms.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

You can finally rescue Half-Life’s guards and scientists thanks to this mod inspired by Lemmings

Half-Life: Lemmings is a mod for Half-Life: Source that allows players to rescue up to 45 non-playable characters (NPCs), such as scientists and guards, within the Black Mesa facility. The mod features custom animations for rescuing NPCs, enhanced navigation capabilities for them, and upgrades for guards who can now use shotguns, MP5s, and grenades. The mod covers gameplay from the beginning of the Unforeseen Consequences chapter to the Apprehension chapter. It is available for download on ModDB, although Half-Life: Source is not listed on the Steam store but can still be purchased for £8.50.

AppWizard

April 10, 2026

Esoteric Ebb’s creator reckons most players only saw half the game, and that’s fine by him: ‘You’ve got to miss stuff in order to feel like the world is bigger’

A player completed New Vegas after 300 hours over 15 years, demonstrating dedication to experiencing every aspect of the game. Christoffer Bodegård, the creator of Esoteric Ebb, designed the game to evoke wonder and discovery, similar to classic RPGs like Elden Ring. He introduced the concept of the "illusionary wall of agency," suggesting that with numerous choices and content, players may feel they have missed significant portions even after completing a large percentage of the game. This design philosophy enhances gameplay and fosters a deeper connection between players and the game world, encouraging exploration and repeated engagement.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

I got murdered by a ladybug in Neverway, and that cemented it as the only game I care about this year

Neverway is a debut game by Coldblood Inc. that combines elements of a farming simulator with a darker narrative focused on self-reflection, mental health struggles, and spiritual rebirth. The protagonist, Fiona, deals with the aftermath of losing her job and experiences feelings of manic depression as she navigates a city filled with hostility. The gameplay involves a mix of combat mechanics and strategic thinking, where players can unlock new abilities by forming bonds with island inhabitants. The game features a dynamic soundtrack composed by Disasterpiece, enhancing the emotional experience. Neverway is set to be released in 2026 and has garnered anticipation for its unique blend of genres and immersive storytelling.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

Stellaris is finally adding a major feature its director has wanted “for a long time”

The upcoming Stellaris 4.4 update, named 'Pegasus,' will introduce a new feature called 'Join War,' allowing players to engage in ongoing conflicts and seek allies during wars. Players will need to negotiate with the war leader to exit a conflict, with dynamics varying based on the war's status. Abandoning allies may lead to negative consequences. The current test patch for version 4.3.4 'Cetus' is available on the open beta branch, with the full release scheduled for April 16.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

1000xResist dev’s new game has you convince an AI that they’re not human, and my brain is already scrambled in the best way

Vancouver-based developer Sunset Visitor has announced its new project, Prove You're Human, during the Triple-i showcase. In this game, players take on the role of a digital copy of a person testing a corporate product called Mesa, a robotic AI that believes it is human. The objective is to convince Mesa of her artificiality while exploring themes of identity and existence. The game features a vibrant virtual world and unique interactions, including a twist on the CAPTCHA test. Players face a choice at the climax: to merge back with their real-life counterpart or embrace digital existence. A release date has not been announced, but anticipation is growing.