NewApp Digest
search bot

disappointment

There's now an app that brings Samsung Messages back from the dead
AppWizard
July 29, 2026

There’s now an app that brings Samsung Messages back from the dead

Samsung has discontinued its native messaging app in the U.S., prompting the emergence of a new application called Messages by OzarksMade, which aims to replicate the Samsung Messages experience. This app closely resembles the original Samsung Messages in layout and design, including a similar app icon. Messages by OzarksMade supports SMS, MMS, group messaging, scheduled messaging, local backups, and RCS through a "Companion Mode" that utilizes Google Messages in the background. There is also a standalone mode for users who do not require RCS. The app is currently available for beta sign-ups on the Google Play Store, with plans for a full release priced 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: Samsung's recent decision to discontinue its native messaging app in the U.S. has left many long-time Galaxy users feeling adrift, forced to adapt to Google Messages and its unfamiliar interface. In response to this shift, a new application named Messages by OzarksMade has emerged, aiming to recreate the beloved Samsung Messages experience. Familiarity at Its Core The standout feature of Messages by OzarksMade is its striking resemblance to Samsung Messages. The developer has crafted an interface that mirrors the layout and design of the original app, including an icon that echoes its predecessor. This attention to detail is intended for users who prefer the aesthetics of Samsung’s messaging platform and are reluctant to transition to the distinctly different Google Messages. Messages by OzarksMade boasts a comprehensive suite of features, including: SMS and MMS support Group messaging capabilities Scheduled messaging Local backups RCS support through a unique “Companion Mode” It’s worth noting that the RCS functionality operates via Google Messages in the background, as third-party developers lack direct access to Google's RCS infrastructure. For users who do not require RCS, the app also offers a standalone mode for SMS and MMS messaging. While the app's premise is intriguing, potential users should exercise caution. As with any new application handling sensitive data such as text messages, it’s advisable to thoroughly evaluate its performance before designating it as the default messaging solution. Furthermore, it’s essential to remember that this app is not an official Samsung product, despite its close visual alignment with Samsung Messages. The app's design could raise legal questions, particularly regarding intellectual property rights. Samsung may take issue with the app's resemblance to its own messaging platform, potentially leading to challenges if it perceives infringement on its branding or interface. For those nostalgic for Samsung Messages, the app presents an interesting alternative. Currently, it is open for beta sign-ups on the Google Play Store, with plans for a full release priced 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: Joe Maring / Android AuthorityTL;DR A new app called Messages by OzarksMade promises to recreate the Samsung Messages experience after Samsung discontinued its native messaging app in the US. The app clones Samsung Messages’ look, feel, and even its app icon while offering SMS, MMS, and even RCS support. Interestingly, RCS support is offered through a “Companion Mode” that uses Google Messages in the background. Samsung officially pulled the plug on Samsung Messages in the US earlier this month. Much to their disappointment, long-term Galaxy users have had to switch to Google Messages and become familiar with a brand-new interface after years of using Samsung Messages. Now, a new app called Messages by OzarksMade is trying to recreate the Samsung Messages experience almost entirely.The app’s biggest selling point is familiarity. The screenshots shared by the developer, Messages by OzarksMade, look remarkably similar to Samsung Messages, right down to the interface, layout, and even the app icon, which is clearly also inspired by Samsung Messages. The developers say that the app is designed for One UI and Galaxy users who miss Samsung’s messaging experience and don’t want to switch to Google Messages’ different design. According to the developer, the app supports SMS, MMS, group messaging, scheduled messages, local backups, and even RCS. However, there’s an important catch: RCS works through a “Companion Mode” that uses Google Messages in the background, since third-party developers don’t have direct access to Google’s RCS infrastructure. There’s also a standalone mode for SMS and MMS if you don’t need RCS.We haven’t had a chance to try the app ourselves, so we can’t verify how well it works or whether it delivers on its promise of being a Samsung Messages substitute. As with any new app that handles your text messages, it’s worth being cautious before making it your default messaging app. You should also remember that this isn’t an official Samsung product, despite how closely it resembles one. That resemblance could also become an issue. The app intentionally mimics Samsung Messages’ design, and while we’re unsure whether it crosses any legal lines, Samsung could challenge it if it believes its branding, interface, or other intellectual property has been copied too closely.For users who miss Samsung Messages, though, that’s also what makes this app interesting. Whether it sticks around for the long term is another question entirely.The app is currently open for beta sign-ups through the Google Play Store. The developer’s website notes that once it is officially released, it’ll cost $0.99. Thank you for being part of our community. Read our Comment Policy before posting." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99. However, it is not an official Samsung product, and its design may raise potential legal issues regarding intellectual property rights.
Cyan releases teaser for the first new Myst game in 20 years, then breaks the news that it's not actually being made
AppWizard
July 28, 2026

Cyan releases teaser for the first new Myst game in 20 years, then breaks the news that it’s not actually being made

Cyan Worlds, the developer of the iconic game Myst, laid off approximately half of its workforce in 2025 due to financial struggles. In the same year, they developed a prototype for a new Myst game, codenamed Project Anglerfish, but the project is not currently in development due to a lack of interest from publishers. A teaser for the game was released, generating mixed reactions from fans who expressed disappointment over its cancellation while also showing a strong desire for a continuation of the Myst legacy. Despite the challenges in the current gaming landscape, there remains a dedicated audience for a new Myst experience, and Cyan has previously found success with crowdfunding for other projects.
Ubisoft Just Gave Away 13 PC Games for “Free” to Xbox Users, But It Comes With a Huge Downside
AppWizard
July 27, 2026

Ubisoft Just Gave Away 13 PC Games for “Free” to Xbox Users, But It Comes With a Huge Downside

Ubisoft is offering a giveaway of 13 games for Xbox users who have previously purchased digital versions on Xbox consoles, allowing them to play these titles on PC at no additional cost. The games included are: - Assassin’s Creed Mirage - Assassin’s Creed Valhalla - Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora - Far Cry 6 - Immortals Fenyx Rising - Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown - Riders Republic - Skull and Bones - The Crew 2 - The Crew Motorfest - Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Extraction - Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege - Watch Dogs Legion Players must download these games via Ubisoft Connect, as they are not accessible through the Xbox App for PC. Additionally, owning a game on PC does not grant access to the Xbox console version. Critics have expressed disappointment that the games are not compatible with the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, which would have allowed for cross-buy functionality.
Conceived in a secure military facility, this Jedi Knight fansite has been running consistently for almost 30 years: 'It looks really close to what it did back in 1998'
AppWizard
July 25, 2026

Conceived in a secure military facility, this Jedi Knight fansite has been running consistently for almost 30 years: ‘It looks really close to what it did back in 1998’

In the late 1990s, the internet saw a surge in websites, including those dedicated to PC gaming. The Massassi Temple, a website for Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces 2, was founded by Brian E. Lozier in early 1998. Lozier created the site to share tutorials and support fellow modders after discovering a community of modders while exploring other gaming websites. He learned programming to build the site, which has remained active due to the dedication of its community, despite challenges like the dotcom bubble burst and the failure of some games. The site hosts a vast collection of Jedi Knight content, including mods and multiplayer maps, and serves as a hub for ongoing support and development. Lozier has stepped away from the site multiple times but continues to return to ensure its survival. He aims to create a permanent archive of community contributions and reflects on the evolution of the internet and the shift toward corporate dominance.
GTA 6 isn't on PC at launch because it's 'always better to start with the constraints', suggests former Rockstar producer
AppWizard
July 15, 2026

GTA 6 isn’t on PC at launch because it’s ‘always better to start with the constraints’, suggests former Rockstar producer

Rockstar Games is launching Grand Theft Auto 6 without a simultaneous PC port, which has disappointed some PC players. Former Rockstar producer John Ricchio explained that the decision is based on resource allocation and the need for a compelling business case for PC ports. He noted that past hardware limitations favored console development, but the performance gap between consoles and PCs has narrowed recently. Despite the delayed PC version, 39% of players are willing to wait for it. The game, titled Phantom Vice Auto, is set to launch on November 19.
Fighting game developer previously accused of sexual harassment confirmed to be working on Avatar Legends a week before release
AppWizard
July 15, 2026

Fighting game developer previously accused of sexual harassment confirmed to be working on Avatar Legends a week before release

Avatar Legends: The Fighting Game is set to be released on July 23, developed by Gameplay Group International. Mike Zaimont, known for his work on Skullgirls and Indivisible, is involved in the game's development, which has sparked controversy due to past allegations of sexual misconduct. The game's publisher, Paramount, confirmed Zaimont's participation, leading to disappointment among fans of the Avatar franchise. Koh, a contributor to the Korra comics, expressed his dismay over Zaimont's involvement. The development team faces the challenge of addressing public perception while aiming to meet high expectations for the game.
Ubisoft promises new Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon games are coming, but says this year will be 'quieter' than most
AppWizard
July 14, 2026

Ubisoft promises new Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Ghost Recon games are coming, but says this year will be ‘quieter’ than most

Ubisoft's recent financial report indicates that while new titles are planned, including Black Flag Resynced, the upcoming fiscal year will have a "lighter new release slate." CEO Yves Guillemot confirmed that new entries in the Assassin's Creed and Far Cry series are in development, but release timelines remain uncertain. The company has faced delays and cancellations, exemplified by Beyond Good and Evil 2. Ubisoft has experienced layoffs, studio closures, and restructuring efforts, which have not resolved ongoing issues. There is speculation about Tencent's interest in supporting Ubisoft's new structure, despite not pursuing a stake in 2025.
The designer of cult classic King of Dragon Pass says his upcoming hellish heist game is pushing the boundaries of a concept he invented in 1999: 'There's really nothing else quite like it'
AppWizard
July 14, 2026

The designer of cult classic King of Dragon Pass says his upcoming hellish heist game is pushing the boundaries of a concept he invented in 1999: ‘There’s really nothing else quite like it’

In 1999, designer David Dunham and his studio A Sharp released King of Dragon Pass, which combines mythic fantasy RPG and cattle management simulation. Although it initially faced commercial disappointment, it gained a dedicated following for its narrative experience. Later in 2023, Dunham and A Sharp will launch Thousand Hells: The Underworld Heists, described as a "systemic storybook experience" by its publisher, Kitfox Games. Dunham calls it a "tactical narrative game," emphasizing its unconventional classification. The game features gameplay elements where players use traits of party members in conflict resolution, set in a fantastical representation of Byzantium. It introduces conditional, rearrangeable storytelling elements, which Dunham claims to have pioneered in the '90s, although he acknowledges that King of Chicago may have predated him. Thousand Hells offers a unique experience in each playthrough and can be completed in one to two hours, contrasting with the longer narratives of its predecessors.
Search