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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.
Google expands Android Binary Transparency to counter supply chain attacks
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Google expands Android Binary Transparency to counter supply chain attacks

Supply chain attacks targeting mobile software have increased due to the reliance on smartphones for essential functions. In response, Google has launched an enhanced Binary Transparency program for Android, which includes a public ledger that records cryptographic entries for production applications. This program initially covers two software layers: Google Applications and Mainline Modules. For Pixel device owners, it complements the Pixel System Image Transparency feature introduced in 2023, allowing users to verify the authenticity of system images and Google applications. The program aims to address the gap in software trust by distinguishing between digital signatures, which confirm the identity of the binary's creator, and binary transparency, which indicates the intent for public release. If a Google-signed application released after May 1, 2026, is not listed in the ledger, it means Google did not authorize it as production software. Verification tools are available on GitHub for assessing software against the ledger. Google employs "defense-in-depth" protocols to mitigate insider risks, ensuring that no single individual can publish a binary without triggering cryptographic verification. The ledger acts as a public record to deter unauthorized modifications. Google is also working to extend Binary Transparency to third-party developers to enhance the security of the global software supply chain.
This month's Humble Choice is offering one of the best turnbased sicko RPGs of the century for an all time low $15—plus you get 8 other games including Diablo 4
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

This month’s Humble Choice is offering one of the best turnbased sicko RPGs of the century for an all time low $15—plus you get 8 other games including Diablo 4

Atlus is known for its JRPGs, with Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance being highlighted as a standout title. The game offers a straightforward, turn-based creature-collecting experience with minimal dialogue and cutscenes, making it engaging for players. SMT 5 features two campaigns that provide strategic turn-based combat without lengthy narratives. It is currently available through the Humble Choice bundle for a limited time, priced at a single month's subscription, which includes seven additional games. The bundle features titles such as Diablo 4 and Crysis 3 Remastered. Kerry Brunskill rated SMT 5 a 91 out of 100, calling it "an essential RPG."
Xbox details the next 13 Game Pass titles, including Forza Horizon 6, Mixtape and Subnautica 2
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Xbox details the next 13 Game Pass titles, including Forza Horizon 6, Mixtape and Subnautica 2

Microsoft is adding 13 new games to its Game Pass service, including Forza Horizon 6, Mixtape, and Subnautica 2. Forza Horizon 6 will be released on May 19. The price of Game Pass Ultimate has been reduced to .99/£16.99 per month. The following games will be available on Game Pass in May 2026: - Ben 10 Power Trip (May 6) - Descenders Next (Game Preview) (May 6) - Wheel World (May 6) - Wildgate (May 6) - Wuchang: Fallen Feathers (May 6) - Mixtape (May 7) - Outbound (May 11) - Black Jacket (May 12) - Call of the Elder Gods (May 12) - Elite Dangerous (May 12) - Doom: The Dark Ages (May 14) - Subnautica 2 (May 14) - Forza Horizon 6 (May 19) Additionally, several titles will be leaving Game Pass on May 15, including Galacticare, Go Mecha Ball, Kulebra and the Souls of Limbo, Paw Patrol Rescue Wheels: Championship, and Planet of Lana.
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.
Review: Pragmata PC Review: Path Tracing Is A Game Changer
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Review: Pragmata PC Review: Path Tracing Is A Game Changer

Path tracing scalability is maximized on the RTX 5090 with 4K DLSS quality mode, while the RTX 5070 can achieve a commendable experience using optimized settings at 1440p DLSS balanced mode. The RTX 5070 is the most prevalent Blackwell GPU according to the Steam Hardware Survey, indicating that path tracing is becoming mainstream. Optimal performance in Pragmata on an 8GB GPU requires selecting the lowest texture quality setting due to bugs and potential stuttering with medium settings. Higher mesh quality settings may reduce geometry on 8GB cards. Optimized settings for Pragmata include various configurations for ray tracing, texture quality, and shadow quality, closely mirroring developer settings for current-generation consoles. Enabling the shadow cache option significantly improves frame rates by reusing existing shadow data.
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.
I've reviewed over 100 gaming headsets, and Steelseries' latest is the most exciting one in ages
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

I’ve reviewed over 100 gaming headsets, and Steelseries’ latest is the most exciting one in ages

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Omni is a wireless gaming headset that offers full console compatibility for Xbox and PS5, enhanced sound quality, and an upgraded microphone. It features swappable batteries and a sleek design. The Nova Omni is positioned as a more accessible alternative to the flagship SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite, providing similar features at a lower price. It is Hi-Res Wireless certified, capable of sampling audio at up to 96kHz and 24-bit depth, with 40mm neodymium drivers that achieve a frequency range of 10-40kHz. The headset includes a GameHub for connectivity, allowing simultaneous connections to five devices and listening to four at once. It has an omnidirectional microphone with AI noise-canceling technology that reduces background noise by up to 96%. The Nova Omni is designed for comfort with a swappable battery system and a retractable microphone. It is available for 9.99 / £349.99 / €399.99 in black, white, and dark blue.
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