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Minecraft Expands Experiences Ahead of Licensing Expo
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Minecraft Expands Experiences Ahead of Licensing Expo

Minecraft has over 200 global partners across various sectors, including apparel, food, collectibles, and creative play, as it approaches Licensing Expo 2026. Recent collaborations include an apparel line with Cool Shirtz, a partnership with Adidas, and a global fashion collection with OppoSuits. New product categories include Actimel products in Europe, Sticki Rolls, STEM-focused activity kits from Horizon Group USA, and a plush collaboration with Ty. The brand is expanding into location-based entertainment with the upcoming Minecraft Experience: Moonlight Trail and a themed land, Minecraft World, set to open at Chessington World of Adventures in 2027. A sequel to A Minecraft Movie is in development with Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures, along with a new animated series for Netflix. Minecraft will be present at Licensing Expo at booth No. J98-J103.
How I found the Android launcher that finally rivals the Google Pixel experience
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

How I found the Android launcher that finally rivals the Google Pixel experience

The Pixel Launcher is built on three foundational features: visual consistency through Material You, simplicity with a minimalistic interface, and fluidity with smooth animations. However, it has limited customization options compared to other launchers. Lawnchair is an open-source project that enhances the Pixel experience by restoring customization options removed by Google, such as hiding widgets, supporting icon packs, and allowing user-defined grid layouts. Lawnchair maintains a clean interface while offering extensive control over app visibility and layout, effectively addressing the limitations of the Pixel Launcher. Lawnchair 15 provides a refined version of the Pixel experience, making it accessible to users of non-Pixel devices.
Threads adds direct messaging access on desktop
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Threads adds direct messaging access on desktop

Threads has rolled out its messaging feature on the desktop version of the app, allowing users to access DMs through the left sidebar. This feature aims to enhance communication on the platform and was the most requested upgrade since messaging was introduced in July. Threads Chief Connor Hayes emphasized the importance of facilitating private discussions. Initially, there were doubts about incorporating a DM feature due to Meta's strategy to unify its messaging platforms. After a legal victory, Meta shifted focus and introduced Threads DMs, allowing for new experimental features such as interactive elements and DM links.
MOTORSLICE (PC) Review
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

MOTORSLICE (PC) Review

MOTORSLICE is an action-adventure game developed by Regular Studio that combines hack-and-slash mechanics with parkour elements. The game features a ten-hour storyline where players control P, a Slicer, accompanied by a drone named Orbie. P's mission is to infiltrate "the Megastructure" and dismantle its machines. The game is noted for its intricately designed world, low-poly graphics, and unique parkour mechanics, including the Motorslice feature that allows P to traverse walls using a chainsaw. Players face various challenges and boss battles, though some encounters may feel limited. The game includes collectibles in the form of drones but lacks deeper lore integration. It has some bugs that can disrupt gameplay. Overall, MOTORSLICE is recommended for those who enjoy challenging parkour experiences.
Beloved Dota 2 esports team Heroic has just disbanded, saying it's a "tough game to commercialize"
AppWizard
May 5, 2026

Beloved Dota 2 esports team Heroic has just disbanded, saying it’s a “tough game to commercialize”

Dota 2 esports is experiencing a decline in popularity, particularly in Western markets, overshadowed by League of Legends. The esports organization Heroic has disbanded its Dota 2 team due to financial challenges, despite earlier success in Latin American tournaments and a top six placement during TI 2025. Heroic's Chief Gaming Officer, Robin Nymann, stated that Dota 2 is difficult to commercialize and that the decision was primarily financial. This trend of financial instability is affecting many organizations in the esports industry, which are facing dwindling prize pools and rising operational costs.
Chicken Jockey! Buildable LEGO Minecraft Baby-Zombie & Chicken with little chick (21582) officially revealed
AppWizard
May 5, 2026

Chicken Jockey! Buildable LEGO Minecraft Baby-Zombie & Chicken with little chick (21582) officially revealed

The LEGO Chicken Jockey (21582) set will launch on August 1, 2026, with a retail price of .99 / €29.99. It consists of 344 pieces and features a buildable baby zombie riding a chicken, along with a brick-built chick. The baby zombie measures 15 cm (6 in) in height and 5 cm (2.5 in) in width. The set does not include any minifigures and is designed for ages 9 and up. It is inspired by the Minecraft video game and the 2025 film adaptation.
Microsoft's new Windows 11 Run dialog is faster than the Windows 95-era version it's replacing
Winsage
May 5, 2026

Microsoft’s new Windows 11 Run dialog is faster than the Windows 95-era version it’s replacing

Microsoft is developing a modernized version of the Run dialog for Windows 11, featuring a streamlined design created using C# and WinUI 3. The new Run dialog has a median "time-to-show" of 94 milliseconds, which is an improvement over the old dialog's 103 milliseconds. This new version is designed to be more functional and user-friendly, allowing users to quickly access their home directory and supporting dark mode. The modern Run dialog is currently being rolled out as an opt-in feature for Insiders in the Experimental Channel.
I never understood the appeal of a jumbo novelty d20 until I saw one inspired by one of my favorite new RPGs
AppWizard
May 4, 2026

I never understood the appeal of a jumbo novelty d20 until I saw one inspired by one of my favorite new RPGs

Die Hard Dice has launched a new collection of d20 dice inspired by the RPG Esoteric Ebb, which is anticipated to be a top RPG of 2026. The collection includes three products, with two sets packaged in different colored bags (purple or orange). Each set contains three standard-sized d20s representing main characters from the game: Snell (a translucent green and blue die for the goblin rogue), Meek (a purple and white die for the wearable mimic), and Ettir (a dark brown die with a gold finish for the angelic character). Each die features a unique symbol corresponding to its character. Additionally, there is a metal die called The Cleric, which has blue and white faces and an electroplated finish. The game itself is noted for its immersive experience and innovative gameplay elements introduced by developer Christoffer Bodegård. Pre-orders for the dice are available, with fulfillment expected by June.
Not seeing Xbox mode in Windows 11 yet? Unlock it using this free tool
Winsage
May 4, 2026

Not seeing Xbox mode in Windows 11 yet? Unlock it using this free tool

The optional April 2026 update for Windows 11 (KB5083631) introduces Xbox mode, which enhances gaming performance by disabling unnecessary processes. The rollout prioritizes users in North America, followed by Europe, but many are still waiting for access. Xbox mode can be manually activated using ViVeTool, a free command-line application available on GitHub, provided users have installed update KB5083631. Xbox mode, previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE), offers a console-like interface optimized for full-screen display, enhancing readability and navigation with a gaming controller. It allows seamless transitions between productive tasks and gaming sessions, aiming to replicate the console experience on a PC.
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