digital content Archives

AppWizard

August 21, 2025

Kremlin-backed Max messenger app to be pre-installed on all smartphones sold in Russia

Max will be installed on devices starting September 1. The RuStore app will be pre-installed on iPhones. Lime HD TV will automatically install on Smart TVs beginning January 1, providing access to Russian state television channels.

AppWizard

August 18, 2025

Amazon to shut down Appstore for non-Amazon Android devices on August 20

Storyboard18 has become a leading multi-media hub for the advertising and marketing community, serving as a vital source for industry news and insights. The platform covers a wide range of topics, including advertising, marketing, media, startups, policy, and technology. It features initiatives like The Visionaries and Share The Spotlight to showcase innovation and excellence. Storyboard18 also offers engaging digital content and television programming, such as Media Dialogues With Storyboard18 and the Storyboard18 Weekend Show. The platform encourages partnership inquiries related to sales and collaboration.

AppWizard

August 14, 2025

Google Photos wants to help you spot deepfakes and AI edits (APK teardown)

Google is developing a feature for its Google Photos app, codenamed “threepio,” which will introduce a section titled “How was this made” in the details view of photos and videos. This feature will inform users about the origins and editing processes of media, indicating whether AI tools were used in the editing. It will utilize Content Credentials to track modifications made with AI and non-AI tools, providing labels such as “Edited with AI tools” or “Edited with non-AI tools.” Users will also be notified if the editing history is incomplete or altered.

AppWizard

August 2, 2025

Does MrBeast use AI ‘face-swapping’ technology? YouTuber’s Minecraft video sparks debate

MrBeast is facing accusations of using artificial intelligence in his gaming videos, specifically regarding a clip from his Minecraft gameplay that sparked debate about potential "AI face-swapping technology." The clip garnered 1.6 million views and elicited mixed reactions from the online community, with some users expressing skepticism and others defending him. This is not the first time MrBeast has encountered controversy related to AI; he previously promoted an AI-powered thumbnail generator for his YouTube videos but retracted it after backlash from fellow creators and artists.

AppWizard

August 2, 2025

GOG preservationists hit back at “censorship in gaming” by making a bunch of notable NSFW games free-to-own for a limited time: “If a game is legal and responsibly made, players should be able to enjoy it”

GOG has launched FreedomToBuy.games, a platform offering free access to select adult-themed games for 48 hours, including titles like HuniePop and House Party, to promote creative expression in gaming. The initiative is supported by various publishers and aims to preserve adult-oriented games amidst pressures from moralistic lobbyists and credit card companies. GOG emphasizes its role as an archival platform, stating that legal and responsibly made games should be accessible now and in the future. Mastercard clarified that it has not imposed restrictions on game creators or platforms, and GOG noted that delisting games makes it harder to revive them later. Renowned game creator Yoko Taro commented on the potential infringement of free speech due to such censorship.

AppWizard

August 1, 2025

6 best reading apps for Android phones: Kindle, Readly, Libby, and more

The Kindle app is recognized as the best overall reading application in 2025, featuring a user-friendly interface, extensive library, and customization options. Libby connects with local library memberships, offering free access to e-books and audiobooks but has a challenging interface. Google Play Books provides a simple alternative for purchasing e-books and transitioning to audiobooks, though it has limited customization. Readly offers a subscription model for accessing a wide range of magazines and newspapers, including a one-month free trial. Google News delivers personalized news recommendations and allows users to follow specific outlets. Audible specializes in audiobooks with a vast library and a subscription model that includes one credit per month for purchases.

AppWizard

July 24, 2025

Itch.io pulls NSFW games after payment processor pressure

Itch.io has decided to remove all adult NSFW titles in response to pressure from payment providers and a campaign by the anti-porn group Collective Shout. The platform is conducting a comprehensive content audit to ensure compliance with payment provider requirements. Founder Leaf Corcoran emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust payment processing system for creators and acknowledged the abrupt nature of the changes, apologizing for the lack of advance notice. Similarly, Valve has introduced new guidelines regarding content on Steam, influenced by the same campaign.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

Microsoft Stops Selling Movies, TV Shows Across All Digital Platforms

Microsoft Corp. has exited the transactional video-on-demand (TVOD) sector after nearly two decades. Users will still have access to their owned digital content on Windows and Xbox devices. The company launched the “Zune Video Marketplace” in 2006, which evolved into Xbox Video in 2012 and was rebranded as the Microsoft Movies & TV Store in 2015. The platform generated approximately billion in revenue through 2024. This decision follows the departure of Dametra Johnson-Marletti, who was a key figure in Microsoft's digital gaming sales division.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

Microsoft abruptly stops selling and renting movies and TV shows on Xbox and Windows devices

As of July 18, Microsoft has ceased the sale and rental of TV shows and movies on Xbox and Windows platforms. Customers can still access their previously purchased content on these devices, and Microsoft encourages users to explore third-party entertainment applications for viewing needs. Microsoft began offering TV shows and movies in 2006 through Xbox Live. Additionally, the company has initiated layoffs within its gaming division, affecting over 9,000 employees.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

12 years after Xbox One’s ‘all-in-one’ vision, Microsoft will no longer sell films or TV shows

Microsoft has announced the cessation of sales for digital films and television shows on its Xbox and PC platforms, effective July 18. No refunds will be issued for previously purchased content, but customers can still redownload their existing shows and movies through the Movies & TV app. The company no longer offers new entertainment content for purchase on Microsoft.com, Microsoft Store on Windows, and the Microsoft Store on Xbox. This decision marks a departure from its previous strategy of positioning the Xbox One as a multimedia hub. Microsoft is encouraging users to explore third-party streaming services available on the Microsoft Store. Additionally, Microsoft recently announced layoffs affecting over 9,000 employees, and there have been cancellations of several gaming projects and changes in leadership at various studios.