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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.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Xbox and Ubisoft console-to-PC collab lets users access games cross-device “at no additional cost”

Xbox has expanded its collaboration with Ubisoft to offer premium editions of franchises like Assassin's Creed and Far Cry, along with add-on content for the Xbox PC app. Gamers who own the digital Xbox console version of select games can access the PC version through Ubisoft Connect at no additional cost. This offer includes titles such as Assassin's Creed Mirage, Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, Far Cry 6, and others. The initiative will be rolled out gradually, concluding on August 4.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

Windows 11’s August Patch Tuesday update brings several important changes, and I break down the biggest ones

Microsoft will release the Windows 11 August 2026 Security Update on August 11, 2026, featuring new functionalities and enhancements. Key additions include Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security, the ability to uninstall AI models from Copilot+ PCs, new touchpad gestures, voice isolation for Voice Access, Fluid Dictation for Voice Typing, and a redesigned Start menu with parental controls notice. File Explorer improvements include displaying file sizes in appropriate units, middle-clicking to open folders in new tabs, and fixes for bugs. Users can manage AI models through Settings, and the Lock screen will default to the Weather widget. Touchpad settings will allow customization of scroll and zoom speeds. Fluid Dictation will be deactivated by default, with tooltips for guidance, while Voice Access will feature enhanced speech recognition settings. The Account Control interface will be redesigned for clarity, and power settings will apply across all plans. Windows Update will provide better progress estimates and improved post-update cleanup. Enhancements to system sounds in dark mode will also be included.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

The latest Windows 11 update highlights the part of Microsoft I genuinely enjoy covering the most

Windows Insiders can explore a new build of Windows 11 that enhances accessibility features, particularly the upgraded Voice Access with Voice Isolation, which filters background noise for better voice command control in noisy environments. This update allows users to navigate their devices using voice commands alone, with a dock displaying spoken commands for immediate feedback. Voice Access now offers three speech recognition modes: Voice Isolation, which requires a one-time voice setup; Remove background noise only, which eliminates non-speech sounds without additional setup; and No filtering, the default mode. Additionally, the Narrator feature has improved support for HID-compliant braille displays, enabling plug-and-play connectivity via USB or Bluetooth, including during the initial Windows setup for users who are deaf-blind. Compatible HID displays include the Orbit Reader 20, Orbit Slate 340, Freedom Scientific Focus 40, and APH Mantis Q40. Customization options for braille input and output are available in the Accessibility settings under Narrator.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Google finally lets Find Hub users delete their old devices

Google has introduced a new feature in its Find Hub application that allows users to remove devices from their account. This update enables users to manage their device lists more effectively by eliminating outdated or duplicate entries. The feature has received positive feedback from users, with many expressing excitement about the ability to declutter their device lists.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Android’s Find Hub app now lets you remove old Bluetooth headphones & earbuds

The Find Hub app on Android has been updated to allow users to remove Bluetooth audio devices, such as headphones and earbuds, from the interface. Previously, these devices cluttered the app without an option for removal. The update includes a feature that enables easy removal of these devices, with the location of the option varying slightly by device. This feature has been confirmed to work across various devices, including Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones, Pixel Buds, Nothing earbuds, JBL speakers, and OnePlus Buds. The update is being rolled out widely to users.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

There’s Not Much Room For Improvement In Halo: Campaign Evolved’s PC Settings

Microsoft is delivering a second remake of Halo: Combat Evolved using Unreal Engine 5, which offers stunning visuals but poses challenges for players with older or lower-end hardware. The game performs well on high-end systems, such as an RTX 3090 running smoothly at 60 fps in 4K with the High preset. However, it lacks flexibility for performance adjustments, making it more efficient to use higher presets rather than fine-tuning settings. Key settings include: - Effects Quality: Keep high unless performance issues arise. - Geometric Quality: Maintain high until VRAM limitations are a concern. - Global Illumination Quality: Can be kept high without significant performance impact. - Lighting Quality: Adjust for substantial performance gains if frame rates dip below 60 fps. - Texture Quality: Adjust based on available VRAM. - Reflections: Dial down to medium or low to enhance frame rates. - Atmospheric Quality: Based on personal preference. - Post-Processing Quality: Can be adjusted down with minimal performance impact. - Screen Shake: Toggle based on personal preference. - Motion Blur: Consider turning off due to intensity. - Upscaling Technique: Choose based on GPU brand. - Async Compute: Keep off unless using a high-end graphics card and CPU. - Low Latency Mode: Select based on GPU for optimal responsiveness. - Frame Generation: Can enhance frame rates but may introduce latency.

AppWizard

July 28, 2026

Mistfall Hunter Interview – Game Balance, Beta Feedback, PvE Mode, PC Features, And More

Bellring Games is set to release Mistfall Hunter on PC and consoles, incorporating player feedback from beta tests to enhance the game. Players expressed a desire for high-stakes tension without early unfairness, leading to adjustments in early game progression, combat systems, and the introduction of a no-shrinking-zone mode. The game emphasizes PvE as a core element, enhancing exploration and decision-making, with plans for future updates to deepen this experience. Mistfall Hunter distinguishes itself in the extraction genre through genuine third-person action combat, focusing on mechanics like attack direction and stamina management rather than traditional shooter elements. The integration of PvE, PvP, and extraction creates a seamless gameplay experience. Developers are considering a PvE-only mode for players who prefer to avoid PvP, while balancing gameplay for solo players and three-player squads. Each playstyle is designed to thrive independently, with continuous monitoring to maintain class strengths and weaknesses. Player engagement is prioritized, ensuring that death incurs a cost but does not negate progress. The game will feature separate Quality and Performance modes on consoles, support full cross-play, and offer extensive graphics options for PC players, alongside anti-cheat measures.

Winsage

July 28, 2026

I’m worried that Windows 11 will slowly turn into a subscription-based OS, and AI agents will be to blame

Concerns about Microsoft's future monetization strategy for Windows suggest a potential shift from a one-time payment model to a subscription-based system. This aligns with a broader trend among tech companies favoring recurring revenue. Recent AI developments, such as the transition from the free Deep Research feature to the subscription-based Researcher, indicate a move towards monetizing AI functionalities. Additionally, features like Microsoft Whiteboard and Outlook's Meeting Insight now require paid subscriptions. Microsoft plans to introduce AI agents in Windows 11, which may also be gated behind paywalls, leading to a modular operating system with optional paid features. Speculation exists about a tiered subscription model, including a free version that could become ad-supported. However, uncertainties remain regarding user acceptance and the perceived value of AI features, which could impact the success of such a transition.

AppWizard

July 28, 2026

WhatsApp Web is finally picking up voice and video call support

WhatsApp Web will introduce end-to-end encrypted voice and video calling, allowing calls directly from a desktop browser. New features include a dedicated Calls tab for call history, reactions, and screen sharing. A Waiting Room feature will let call hosts control participant access, while Call Transfer will enable seamless transitions across devices. Noise Suppression technology will improve conversation clarity, and QuickHD will provide HD video quality quickly, though performance in low connectivity areas is uncertain. The rollout of these features will occur gradually, with no specific timeline provided.