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Why I’m so excited for the Googlebook Android app experience on a desktop
AppWizard
August 4, 2026

Why I’m so excited for the Googlebook Android app experience on a desktop

Support for independent tech journalism is emphasized, particularly for Chrome Unboxed, which offers a membership for an ad-free experience and exclusive access to a private Discord. The author expresses frustration with the limitations of Android apps on ChromeOS, specifically citing issues with PUBG Mobile's performance on Chromebooks. The introduction of Googlebook, particularly the Lenovo Googlebook ‘Sapphire’ detachable tablet, is highlighted as a potential solution, featuring an architecture built on native Android, which promises improved app compatibility, native input mapping, direct hardware acceleration, and seamless Play Store integration. The author envisions an ideal tablet experience that combines the functionality of a desktop Chrome browser with robust Android applications.
Your Galaxy's SmartThings app looks set for its biggest redesign in years
AppWizard
August 4, 2026

Your Galaxy’s SmartThings app looks set for its biggest redesign in years

Samsung's SmartThings app is undergoing a redesign to align with the One UI design language, featuring a floating navigation bar for easy access to tabs like Home, Devices, Life, Routines, and Menu. The Home tab will have animated wallpapers that change with the time of day and allow for personalized backgrounds for different locations. A new SmartThings Now card will suggest underutilized features, which can be disabled by users. The redesign includes three types of home-screen widgets: Device Control, Screen Device Control, and Routines. The Devices tab will have a refreshed background, and the Life section will continue to offer services like Energy and Music Sync, with customizable card arrangements. The Routines tab will separate existing automations from a Discover section showcasing popular community routines. A release date for the update is not confirmed but may align with the rollout of One UI 9.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
August 4, 2026

Tor launches Snowflake Android app to help users bypass censorship

The Tor Project has launched an Android app called Snowflake Volunteer, allowing users to share their internet bandwidth to help others bypass online censorship. The app enhances the network of volunteer-operated Snowflake proxies while enabling users to manage their device's battery and network usage. Snowflake disguises internet traffic to resemble video calls, making it harder for censors to block connections. Developed by Bloco in collaboration with Tor’s anti-censorship team, the app is built on mobile Tor components and is designed for background operation. Users can configure the app to run on unmetered networks and during charging. Snowflake Volunteer is available for download on Google Play and F-Droid, with its source code accessible for independent compilation. Volunteers are advised to consider their data limits and device performance when using the app.
Microsoft's Xbox Emulator on Windows Will Soon Support Xbox 360 Games
AppWizard
August 4, 2026

Microsoft’s Xbox Emulator on Windows Will Soon Support Xbox 360 Games

Microsoft is testing a new Xbox emulator for Windows 11, allowing select Xbox Insiders to access classic original Xbox games like Fuzion Frenzy, Conker: Live & Reloaded, and Crimson Skies. A broader official launch is expected before the end of the year, with plans to include Xbox 360 games next year. An internal document indicates a full launch of backwards compatibility on PC is scheduled for October 2026, coinciding with the Xbox brand's 25th anniversary, followed by a rollout of the Xbox 360 catalog for next-generation Xbox devices in 2027-2028. The emulator will handle the technical challenges of emulating original Xbox and Xbox 360 games, allowing developers to choose whether to make their titles accessible on Windows 11. Backwards compatible games may be available for purchase through the Microsoft Store or included in Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Additionally, a disc-to-digital program is anticipated to launch in August, enabling Xbox console owners to convert physical game discs into digital copies.
Xbox 360 Games Are Reportedly Coming To PC As Well
AppWizard
August 3, 2026

Xbox 360 Games Are Reportedly Coming To PC As Well

Microsoft is planning to enhance the gaming experience by integrating Xbox 360 games onto PC platforms and its upcoming Project Helix console, which will support backward compatibility. Developers will have the option to set their own pricing for PC versions of games and include them in the Game Pass subscription service. This initiative follows a previous announcement about bringing original Xbox games to PC, with an expansion expected in October. Additionally, Microsoft has developed an official emulator, Xe03, for running Xbox 360 games on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, and another tool, XeFu, for original Xbox games. Furthermore, a disc-to-digital program is in the works to allow players to convert physical game copies into digital versions, although details about its implementation remain unclear.
Open-World Survival Game with Over 80K Wishlists Just Got Its PC Release Date (And It’s Soon)
AppWizard
August 2, 2026

Open-World Survival Game with Over 80K Wishlists Just Got Its PC Release Date (And It’s Soon)

Delverium, an indie sandbox survival game from Sagestone Games, is set to enter Early Access on PC via Steam on September 22nd. The game has over 80,000 wishlists and features pixel graphics, open-world survival, and farming simulations. Players can explore a vast pixel-art world, engage in activities like fighting, fishing, farming, and foraging, and play solo or cooperatively with up to eight friends. A free demo was showcased during February’s Steam Next Fest, and the game has been refined based on player feedback from a recent playtest. The Early Access version will include core gameplay, cooperative play, and full controller support, and is expected to perform well on the Steam Deck. The Early Access phase is planned to last approximately two years, during which new content will be added based on player feedback. Pricing details are not yet available, but it is expected to be lower during Early Access.
Microsoft wants Windows 11’s right-click menu to work the way it should, by giving users more control
Winsage
August 2, 2026

Microsoft wants Windows 11’s right-click menu to work the way it should, by giving users more control

Microsoft is redesigning the context menu in Windows 11 to address complaints about its sluggishness and clutter. The new design will feature a more compact layout that enhances loading speed and offers full customization options. Users will be able to prioritize frequently used actions, hide seldom-used entries, and rearrange items in the menu. This initiative is part of the broader Windows K2 project aimed at improving the operating system's performance and user experience. The redesigned context menu is currently functional in internal testing, but no timeline for its public rollout has been announced.
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