- Netflix Playground offers activities based on various properties such as Sesame Street, Peppa Pig, Dr. Seuss, Bad Dinosaurs, and StoryBots
- The app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play
- Users can sign in with their existing Netflix account and manage storage for installed games in the app's Settings menu
Google and Epic Games have reached a settlement in their 5-year-long antitrust dispute, marking the end of Google's control over the Android app ecosystem. Under the new terms, Google will allow users to download and install third-party app stores that meet security standards, providing more choice for consumers. This change may lead to lower prices for users and lower costs for developers, as well as the launch of major rival stores within the Android system. However, the user experience may become more fragmented with multiple app stores, raising concerns about privacy and security.
A serious flaw in the Unity Engine (CVE-2025-59489) was disclosed earlier this year, posing risks to Android gaming apps, including casino and crypto-enabled games. Android casino and bingo apps should provide licensed platforms, technical safeguards, regular updates, and strong account protection. Android users should download apps from trusted sources, keep their OS and apps updated, enable 2FA, avoid public Wi-Fi, and limit funds kept in mobile apps. The use of crypto in gaming apps adds another layer of risk, as transactions are irreversible. Choosing crypto-friendly but security-aware services can help reduce risk for users.
Google and Epic Games have reached an agreement on app store fees, which would replace the court's previous injunction. Google can charge a 9 percent fee for non-gameplay items and a 20 percent fee for mixed bundles. Epic Games will be able to create an Epic Games Store on Android with minimal fees to Google. This agreement aims to make Android a more competitive platform for users and developers.
Google has proposed changes to its Play Store and Android in order to settle an antitrust dispute with Epic Games. The changes include allowing alternative payment methods for app developers, supporting Registered App Stores like Epic Games, and implementing new fee structures for transactions. The settlement could impact the ongoing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple, as Google's case is not directly applicable to Apple's situation.
Microsoft has eliminated the one-time registration fee for individual developers to publish apps on the Microsoft Store, effective globally in nearly 200 markets. The developer onboarding process has been redesigned, removing the credit card requirement and streamlining verification through a personal Microsoft account, government-issued ID, and a selfie. This allows developers to transition from sign-up to app submission readiness in minutes. The fee waiver applies only to individual developers, while company accounts must still pay a registration fee. Microsoft supports various app types without code changes and allows non-game app developers to implement their own payment systems, retaining 100% of the revenue. Developers packaging their apps as MSIX receive free hosting, app signing, and automatic updates. This policy aims to make the Microsoft Store more competitive against rivals like Apple and Google.
The PC version of Bandai Namco Entertainment's Gakuen Idolm@ster game app will debut on the DMM Games platform on March 18, 2025. The game was initially launched in Japan in May 2024 and allows players to act as producers at the Hatsuboshi Gakuen idol training school. The game features nine initial idols and has expanded its roster over time. Additionally, the Gakuen Idolmaster Gold Rush manga was introduced in October 2024, focusing on the character Kotone Fujita.
