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AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google will require developer verification for Android apps outside the Play Store

Google is enhancing security measures for Android app distribution by verifying developer identities, starting next year. This initiative will affect all certified Android devices globally, with a phased rollout. Developers can still distribute apps through alternative app stores or sideloading, but anonymity will be reduced to combat malware and fraud. Google reported that sideloaded apps encounter over 50 times more malware than those on the Google Play Store, where developer verification has been required since 2023. Developers can sign up for early access in October 2025, with full verification expected by March 2026. By September 2026, apps installed in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand must comply, with a global rollout in 2027. Developers will need to provide their legal name, address, email, and phone number, which may lead some to register as businesses for privacy. Google will also offer a tailored Android Developer Console account for student and hobbyist developers.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google Android Developer Identity Verification Policy 2026 – News and Statistics

Google will require all developers distributing Android applications outside of the Play Store to undergo identity verification starting globally in 2026. This policy aims to reduce malware threats and enhance user data protection. The verification process will begin with an early access program in October 2025, followed by mandatory verification in March 2026, initially enforced in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a wider rollout expected in 2027. Developers must provide their legal name, address, email, and phone number. Google will also create a separate account type for student and hobbyist developers. The Play Store has required developer verification since 2023.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Google wants to make sideloading Android apps safer by verifying developers’ identities

Google is implementing a new "developer verification requirement" for all Android apps distributed outside the Google Play Store to enhance user security and accountability. Only users with certified Android devices will be prevented from installing apps from unverified developers. Developers must authenticate their identities through a new Android Developer Console, providing their legal name, address, email, phone number, and, for organizations, a website and D-U-N-S number. A separate account type with fewer requirements will be created for hobbyist and student developers. The rollout will begin with an early access program in October 2025, full implementation in March 2026, and initial requirements taking effect in September 2026 for users in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Winsage

August 24, 2025

Why Microsoft defined the modern PC with Windows 95

Windows 95 was released on August 24, 1995, in the United States, and became a cultural phenomenon, supported by a significant advertising campaign featuring the Rolling Stones' song "Start Me Up." The operating system introduced the "Start" menu and was technically advanced for its time, despite some user interface challenges. Microsoft faced intense competition from IBM's OS/2 and the growing home PC market, which included the rise of gaming consoles. Windows 95 was made available for testing through a beta program, and its launch was backed by a 0 million advertising budget. The operating system included a "Plug & Play" feature, although it often led to crashes. Windows 95 relied on a DOS substructure and introduced DOS version 7.0, allowing better use of 32-bit processors. Microsoft also launched "The Microsoft Network" (MSN) alongside Windows 95, but Internet Explorer was only available in the additional "Plus!" package. By the end of 1995, Microsoft sold 40 million licenses for Windows 95, which continued to receive updates until 2001. The startup sound composed by Brian Eno was later added to the US Library of Congress in 2025.

AppWizard

August 24, 2025

Free PC Game Downloads with WiFi4Games and the Best Alternative Platforms

WiFi4Games is a platform for downloading and playing PC games, designed for ease of use. To download games, users must visit the WiFi4Games website, sign up for a free account, search for a game, download the WiFi4Games client, and follow the installation process. The platform offers a selection of free multiplayer games, including Battle Royale titles, online racing and sports games, strategy-based multiplayer games, and arcade adventures. For installation, users need to download the WiFi4Games launcher, log in, choose a game, and select a directory for installation. Proper server setup is recommended for both Android and PC users to enhance download speeds. Alternatives to WiFi4Games include Origin, Ubisoft Connect, Microsoft Store & Xbox Game Pass, and Battle.net. To ensure safety, users should download only from the official site, use antivirus software, review game ratings, and keep the client updated. Common errors during downloads can be addressed by restarting the client, reinstalling the launcher, clearing cache, and verifying system compatibility.

Winsage

August 24, 2025

New feature begins rolling out to Windows Insiders

Microsoft is piloting a feature for Windows 11 that allows users to resume Android apps on their PCs, starting with Spotify as the first supported application. This feature is being tested by Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels. Users can link their Android phones to their PCs and receive a notification to "Resume from your phone" when they start a song in the Spotify mobile app, enabling a seamless transition to the Spotify desktop app. This functionality is similar to Apple's Handoff and aims to enhance cross-device usability. Currently, only Spotify is available for this testing phase, but Microsoft plans to expand app support in the future.

Winsage

August 24, 2025

Who should consider Windows PowerToys?

Windows PowerToys is a collection of utilities for the Windows operating system, originally created for power users in the Windows 95 era and revived as an open-source project in 2019 for Windows 10 and 11. It is actively maintained by Microsoft engineers and volunteers. Key features include: - FancyZones: A window manager for creating custom snap layouts. - PowerToys Run: A launcher for quickly opening applications and files. - Keyboard Manager: Allows remapping of keys and creation of new shortcuts. - Text Extractor: Enables copying text from images or on-screen elements. - Mouse Utilities: Includes cursor highlighting and keyboard control of the mouse. PowerToys also offers File Explorer add-ons, a Color Picker, and utilities for batch renaming or resizing files. It is beneficial for users looking to streamline tasks and customize their systems, but may not be necessary for those engaged in basic computer activities. There may be a learning curve and occasional bugs due to its open-source nature.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Creativity On Display At Affinity Esports Minecraft Builders Camp

From August 11 to August 15, children aged 7 to 15 participated in the Minecraft Builders Camp at Affinity Esports. The camp featured daily challenges that encouraged creativity and collaboration, including designing individual dream rooms and constructing a fantasy village as a team. Nearly two dozen participants attended, and the event was organized by Kaohom Boonyalai, who emphasized the importance of balanced gaming experiences by incorporating breaks for board games and outdoor activities. Affinity Esports is located at 27 Glen Road in Newtown. For more information, visit affinityesports.gg or contact them at 203-290-1656 or hello@affinityesports.gg.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

How well do you know your hacking minigames? Put your wits to the test with our latest quiz

Robin is attending Gamescom, leaving the author to create a quiz focused on gaming trivia. PC Gamer offers a variety of quizzes on topics like health bars and patch notes. The text highlights quirky hacking minigames found in games, which can be enjoyable despite being tedious. The author challenges readers to identify these minigames from limited information. Readers are encouraged to share their scores in the comments.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Get lifetime access to Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows for under $50

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 is available for a one-time payment of .97, reduced from the regular price of 9.99, offering a lifetime license without ongoing subscription fees. The suite includes applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams (free version), OneNote, Publisher, and Access, designed for seamless integration and ease of use. The license is valid for installation on a single Windows PC, with immediate access to all applications upon purchase and support provided for inquiries.