excitement Archives

AppWizard

June 13, 2025

5 apps I install on every new phone

Unboxing a new smartphone is an exciting experience that includes setting up essential apps. Spotify provides access to millions of tracks and integrates with Android Auto for music and podcasts. Avast Antivirus offers robust protection and features like threat scanning and a network scanner, ensuring digital security without excessive ads or subscriptions. FitOn is a fitness app that sets realistic goals, tracks activity levels, and offers tailored workouts, including features like celebrity trainers and meal plans. Brave is a browser app that blocks ads and trackers, providing a distraction-free browsing experience with customizable settings. Microsoft 365 allows access to Word and Excel files on the go, with OneDrive for document storage and backup, although some features remain underutilized. These five applications enhance daily smartphone use by serving unique purposes.

AppWizard

June 13, 2025

Google to Sunset Android Instant Apps by End of 2025 Due to Low Usage

Google has announced plans to phase out the Instant Apps feature by December 2025 due to low usage and engagement levels. Instant Apps, launched in 2017, allowed users to access lightweight app versions without installation but struggled to gain widespread adoption. A warning message in Android Studio confirmed the discontinuation, stating that Instant Apps support will be removed, and all related APIs will no longer function. Google aims to invest in more effective tools for app discovery, as developers are increasingly using alternatives that align better with user behavior.

Tech Optimizer

June 13, 2025

‘BrowserVenom’ Windows Malware Preys on Users Looking to Run DeepSeek AI

A new strain of Windows malware called "BrowserVenom" is exploiting interest in DeepSeek's AI models by targeting users through deceptive Google ads. These ads lead to a counterfeit website, "https[:]//deepseek-platform[.]com," where users are tricked into downloading a harmful file named “AILauncher1.21.exe.” This malware monitors and manipulates internet traffic, allowing attackers to intercept sensitive data. The operation is believed to involve Russian-speaking threat actors, and the malware has infected users in several countries, including Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, India, Nepal, South Africa, and Egypt. The fraudulent domain has been suspended, but the malware can evade many antivirus solutions. Users are advised to verify official domains when downloading software.

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

‘A Minecraft Movie’ Tops DEG Digital Transactions Chart for Week of June 1

The Minecraft Movie is officially in development, aiming to bring the game's blocky universe to life on screen. The film will focus on themes of creativity, adventure, exploration, and friendship, featuring a diverse cast of characters on unique journeys. Industry insiders suggest collaborations with renowned filmmakers and the use of cutting-edge technology to create visuals that reflect the game's aesthetic. This project marks a significant step in the trend of adapting video games into feature films, potentially leading to more adaptations in the future.

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

‘Minecraft,’ ‘Clash of Clans,’ ‘Magic the Gathering’ and ‘Ghostbusters’ Series Teased at Netflix Annecy Studio Focus

Netflix showcased a variety of animated projects at Annecy’s Imperial Palace, including adaptations from franchises like “Minecraft,” “Clash of Clans,” “Magic the Gathering,” and “Ghostbusters,” as well as the return of “Blue Eye Samurai.” Highlights included three new preschool shows based on Dr. Seuss, an adaptation of the French comic “Samuel,” and several adult-oriented series such as “Long Story Short,” “Haunted Hotel,” and “Mating Season.” “Samuel” is an acclaimed French animated series set for a wider audience release later this year. The Dr. Seuss adaptations consist of “Red Fish Blue Fish,” “Horton!,” and “The Sneetches,” with “Red Fish Blue Fish” aimed at children aged four to seven. “Long Story Short” is a family comedy from Raphael Bob-Waksberg, while “Haunted Hotel” is a horror-comedy produced by Dan Harmon. “Mating Season” is an adult animated comedy about dating in the animal kingdom. “Stranger Things: Tales from ‘85” aims to create animated series with cinematic quality, while “Splinter Cell: Deathwatch” is the first animated adaptation of the Ubisoft game. “Magic the Gathering” is described as an ambitious epic fantasy saga, and “Blue Eye Samurai” promises intense storytelling in its new season. A new “Ghostbusters” series is being developed with Sony Pictures Animation, and the “Minecraft” series is being crafted in collaboration with Mojang Studios. The “Clash of Clans” series will transform the mobile game's fantasy world into a workplace comedy.

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

Minecraft 1.21.6 ‘Chase the Skies’ Release Date Announced

Minecraft's latest update, titled Chase the Skies, is set to launch on June 17, 2025. The update will feature a comprehensive graphical overhaul called Vibrant Visuals, new ghast variants, a player locator bar, an overhauled Realms UI, modifications to projectiles and splash potion effects, and additional ambient changes.

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

Dune: Awakening

Dune: Awakening is a survival genre game that has received mixed reviews. DualShockers rated it 90, praising its polished execution and expansive content, while GameRant rated it 80, noting impressive ambition but areas for improvement. Game8 provided a balanced view with a score of 74, describing it as a worthwhile experience for all players. Hands-on impressions highlight stable survival mechanics and a rewarding PvE experience, with IGN noting a wealth of content even after 35 hours of gameplay. The game merges sandbox survival features with social dynamics in a persistent world, positioning it as a pioneering Open World Survival MMO.

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

Summer Game Fest no-shows: 9 big games that were absent from 2025’s showcases

Fable was absent from the Summer Game Fest, leaving fans concerned about its progress. Everwild, announced in 2019, remains mysterious with rumors of a complete overhaul. Details about Blade are scarce, raising questions about its future. Kingdom Hearts 4 has been quiet since its announcement, with only scattered screenshots available. Marathon's absence from the showcase raises concerns about its development and market readiness. The Splinter Cell Remake has shifted focus to a TV adaptation, with development setbacks causing frustration among fans. Beyond Good & Evil 2 has the longest development time in gaming history, with ongoing uncertainty about its release. Hollow Knight: Silksong has experienced delays, with fans awaiting more substantial updates despite a brief gameplay glimpse.

AppWizard

June 11, 2025

Google’s on the right track with desktop mode in Android 16

Android 16 introduces a fully functional desktop mode for Pixel phone users, similar to Samsung's DeX feature, as part of the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2. This desktop mode is accessible out of the box but is still in Developer Preview. Google collaborated with Samsung on its design, featuring a Dock with an app drawer, open apps, and navigation controls. Users can manage app windows with smooth transitions and can snap windows to the sides of the screen. However, there are issues, such as a persistent toolbar in text fields and app windows disappearing upon reconnection. Future updates may improve these features, and there is potential for a dual-screen setup with the upcoming Pixel 9 Pro Fold.

AppWizard

June 11, 2025

Warner’s ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Secures Third Consecutive No. 1 on Weekly U.K. Home Entertainment Sales Chart

The Minecraft movie is in development, aiming to adapt the popular game into a film that explores creativity, adventure, friendship, resilience, and collaboration. It will blend animation and live-action to create a visually stunning experience, potentially introducing a new genre of family-friendly entertainment. The film is expected to utilize cutting-edge technology, feature a diverse cast of characters with unique backstories, and may include interactive elements to engage audiences.