expansion Archives

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

PlayStation games on PC is “almost like printing money”, says former exec Shuhei Yoshida

Shuhei Yoshida, a former PlayStation executive, discussed the financial benefits of porting PlayStation-exclusive titles to PC, describing it as "almost like printing money." He expressed a desire to transition first-party games to PC earlier but noted that the previous business model did not support this vision. Porting games allows Sony to reach a broader audience, particularly in regions with low console ownership, and is cost-effective compared to creating original titles. Yoshida emphasized the importance of tapping into emerging markets like China, where the PC gaming landscape is strong. Since 2020, Sony has gradually transitioned its exclusive titles to PC, with recent releases including Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and the upcoming The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered. The release of Helldivers 2 was noted as a significant success for Sony. Yoshida also mentioned future plans for live service games, including insights on Naughty Dog's The Last of Us Online.

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Buckle up: Android Automotive has 70 new apps to keep you entertained (in the parking lot)

Google will soon introduce nearly 70 new applications for Android Automotive, increasing the total number of available apps to nearly 300. The new apps include popular streaming and gaming titles like Farm Heroes Saga, Paramount Plus, Plex, F1 TV, Red Bull TV, and NBC News. These apps will only function when the vehicle is parked to ensure safety. Android Automotive is an embedded operating system in vehicles, distinct from Android Auto, which connects a phone to a vehicle. Currently, around 100 vehicle models feature Android Automotive, including the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, 2023 Honda Accord, 2025 Ford Explorer, and 2024 Nissan Rogue. The rollout of the new apps will initially target select Volvo and Polestar models, with broader availability expected soon. Google is working with various vehicle manufacturers to enhance the app ecosystem for automotive screens.

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Netflix cuts staff from Night School Studio

Netflix has initiated layoffs at Night School Studio, which will not affect the studio's current content lineup. The layoffs were announced in January and are part of a broader shift in Netflix's gaming strategy, which includes the closure of its triple-A Blue studio. Mike Verdu has transitioned to a new role overseeing generative AI, and Alain Tascan has been appointed to lead Netflix's gaming division. Night School Studio was acquired by Netflix in 2021.

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Game Pass: 2 new games are playable today on Xbox and PC

Game Pass has added two new titles: EA Sports F1 24 and Warhammer 40,000 Rogue Trader, both available starting February 20 through Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, and Game Pass Standard. On February 28, nine titles will be removed from Game Pass, including F1 22, Gris, Maneater, PAW Patrol World, Space Engineers, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, Wo Long Fallen Dynasty, Yakuza 3 Remastered, and Yakuza 4 Remastered. Earlier in the month, titles such as Far Cry New Dawn, Madden NFL 25, and Another Crab’s Treasure were added, along with the RPG Avowed.

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Ex-Sony Exec Says PC Ports of Old PS5 Games Are Almost Like Printing Money

Sony has been expanding its portfolio of classic games onto the PC platform, driven by the recognition of the potential market and financial benefits. Shuhei Yoshida, former head of PlayStation Studios, advocated for this shift, noting that releasing games on PC allows access to new audiences, particularly in regions where consoles are less popular, such as China. He highlighted that porting games to PC is cost-effective compared to developing new titles, providing additional income to invest in new projects. Despite concerns from some fans about the impact on the PlayStation brand, Yoshida mentioned that many titles are released on PC years after their console launch, ensuring that console owners have experienced the games first.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Your Android Automotive dashboard just got a lot more fun with these new apps

Google has introduced a significant expansion of applications for Android Automotive, enhancing the in-car experience for drivers and passengers in vehicles with Google built-in technology. This rollout includes dozens of new applications that can be accessed while the vehicle is parked, unlike Android Auto, which requires a smartphone connection. Android Automotive operates directly on the car's infotainment system, providing pre-installed access to services like Google Maps and Google Assistant. The new initiative, called the "car-ready mobile apps program," involves reviewing the Google Play Store for applications optimized for larger displays. If deemed safe for use in parked vehicles, these applications will be made available through the Play Store in cars running Android Automotive. Starting this week, drivers of select Volvo and Polestar models can download various new applications, including streaming services and light games. Confirmed car-compatible applications include: - Farm Heroes Saga - F1 TV - Roblox - Paramount Plus - Avatar World - Solitaire Grand Harvest - Plex - Fubo - Philo - 2 3 4 Player Mini Games - FOX Nation - NBC News - BritBox - Lifetime - Chess - FanDuel Sports Network - A&E - Dropout - HISTORY: Shows & Documentaries - sand:box

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Android Automotive set to gain over a dozen new streaming and gaming apps

Android Automotive is expanding its app ecosystem with a new initiative called the “car-ready mobile apps program,” which allows popular applications to transition from mobile devices to in-car dashboards. This expansion includes various games and streaming services designed for use when vehicles are stationary. New applications available include Plex, F1 TV, Red Bull TV, NBC News, Roblox, Farm Heroes Saga, and family-friendly games from Pazu Games. These applications will be accessible in supported vehicles from manufacturers like Volvo and Polestar. Users can install these apps via the Google Play Store in their vehicles or remotely through a dedicated storefront landing page. The app library for Android Automotive still has fewer options compared to the more established Android Auto platform.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Android Automotive is Getting “Dozens” of New Apps and Games

Google is enhancing its Android Automotive platform with a significant app upgrade, introducing "dozens" of new applications designed for vehicles equipped with Google built-in. This initiative follows the car-ready mobile apps program launched last year. Users can explore car-compatible apps via a link to the Google Play Store. Highlighted applications include F1 TV, Farm Heroes Saga, Chess Online, and Kids Puzzles. The initial rollout will be available on select Polestar and Volvo models, with plans for expansion to additional makes and models in the future.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2025

EDB Expands Partner Program to Drive Global Postgres & AI Growth

EnterpriseDB (EDB) has expanded its Partner Program to support businesses and solution providers in utilizing an enterprise-grade Postgres data management platform for AI-driven data innovation. Over 35% of organizations are seeking enterprise-grade Postgres capabilities, with more than 67% of data workloads being hybrid. A McKinsey survey indicates that 65% of organizations are using generative AI in at least one business function. The enhanced EDB Partner Program offers on-demand support throughout the sales lifecycle, exclusive training and certification, increased go-to-market commitments, a personalized digital experience through the EDB Partner Portal, and showcases customer success stories. EDB aims to empower partners to help customers innovate and scale effectively in an AI-driven environment.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Minecraft and Crocs Join Up Ahead Of “A Minecraft Movie”

Minecraft is collaborating with Crocs to release a new collection of footwear, following a successful four-pair collection in 2023. The latest Classic Clog design features an imaginative representation of the Dark Forest biome from the game, including dark oak trees and oversized mushrooms. The collection also includes customizable Jibbitz charms depicting iconic symbols from Minecraft, such as a steel pickaxe, a Creeper, a crafting table, and animals like a dog and a pig. The Minecraft x Crocs collection is set to be released on March 4th, with options for both adults and kids.