Gaming Hub Archives

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

6 Free Android TV Apps You Need To Install Before Google Removes Sideloading

Developers are now required to register their applications before users can sideload them on Android devices, a change aimed at reducing malware risks associated with unverified apps. This policy is particularly significant for Android TV users who often rely on sideloading for niche utilities and unofficial streaming tools. The risk of malware is reportedly 50 times higher when apps are installed from outside the Play Store. Google has promised to create a workflow for experienced users to sideload unverified apps despite the new restrictions. Sideloading allows users to install apps not available on the Play Store, but it comes with increased risks of data-stealing malware. Users can sideload apps by transferring APK files to their devices and adjusting settings to allow installations from unknown sources. SmartTube TV is an unofficial YouTube client that offers an ad-free experience and integrates features like SponsorBlock, but it violates YouTube's Terms of Service. Aptoide TV is a community-driven app marketplace that provides access to apps not available on the Play Store, though caution is advised due to potential malware risks. Leanback Launcher is an open-source launcher that enhances performance and customization options for Android TV. RetroArch allows users to emulate classic gaming consoles and requires legal copies of games. Syncler organizes and streams shows and movies from user-selected providers without hosting content itself. AdAway is an open-source ad blocker that filters ads at the device level using host files. The selection of these apps focuses on enhancing the Android TV experience through performance improvements, user-friendly interfaces, and a range of categories including streaming, gaming, customization, and privacy.

BetaBeacon

October 18, 2025

How online casino platforms are transforming Android mobile gaming experiences

Android casino apps are optimized for fluid play, quick loading times, and smooth performance on various devices. Developers use Android's toolkit to enhance the user experience with features such as fingerprint login, round-the-clock chat, and loyalty perks. Cross-platform integration allows players to seamlessly switch between different gaming hubs under one account. Mobile-exclusive innovations focus on gesture controls, targeted alerts, and geolocation tools to improve user convenience. Leading platforms are implementing stronger player protection features to promote responsible gambling.

AppWizard

September 23, 2025

Google Play’s redesign finally puts your taste front and center

Google Play is transforming into a personalized entertainment and gaming hub, enhancing user experience through curated content. The Apps tab now features entertainment corners, seasonal spotlights, and curated content like trending shows and webcomics. Guided Search allows users to type in specific goals, and the platform's AI organizes relevant options. A unified gamer profile tracks stats and achievements across devices, while Gen AI Avatars allow for personalized expression. The Play Points rewards system is integrated across mobile and PC, and Play Games Leagues will launch on October 10. The Sidekick overlay offers in-game tips, and Google Play Games on PC has launched with over 200,000 titles. The new You tab consolidates subscriptions, rewards, and audiobooks into a single feed, starting rollout in select markets this week.

AppWizard

September 16, 2025

The Xbox app will now show and run all your games from Steam, GOG, and more on Windows 11 — it’s the new hub for PC gaming

Microsoft has released a significant update for the Xbox app on Windows 11, allowing users to view and launch all installed Windows games from various sources. The update introduces an aggregated gaming library that displays installed games from multiple storefronts, including Xbox, Xbox Game Pass, and Battle.net. This feature aims to simplify game management by providing a single interface for accessing games. The functionality will first be available on the upcoming Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X devices this fall. Additionally, the Xbox app will soon synchronize cloud-playable games across devices, enabling gamers to continue their progress on either PC or console. The update is being rolled out via the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 for all PCs, including laptops, desktops, and handheld devices.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Future Samsung Galaxy phones could ditch apps for a whole new experience, reveals company exec

Samsung is expanding its cloud gaming technology, hinting at a future beyond gaming apps and an app-less experience across devices. The Mobile Gaming Hub is now available in the UK and Germany, allowing Galaxy phone users to engage in mobile gaming without downloads or installations through cloud streaming technology. This development enhances the gaming experience and opens possibilities for connected devices.

AppWizard

July 27, 2025

GeForce NOW on Samsung TV: The Easiest Way to Play PC Games Without a Console or PC

Cloud gaming allows users to play games on various devices without the need for expensive gaming PCs or graphics cards. It streams high-quality video from powerful data center computers, providing smooth gameplay as long as the internet connection is stable. The Samsung Gaming Hub, exclusive to Samsung TVs, features a user-friendly interface and includes the GeForce Now app, which utilizes Nvidia GPUs for enhanced graphics and performance. Users can access the GeForce Now app without downloading or installing anything, and they can create or log into an Nvidia account directly on their TV. GeForce Now offers free and paid membership options, with the free tier allowing access to free-to-play titles, while paid memberships provide additional features like 4K resolution and extended session times. Users can link their game libraries from platforms like Steam, Epic, and Origin securely through QR codes. The app is compatible with most game controllers, and performance may vary based on the TV’s resolution and internet speed. Players can start new save files or continue existing ones with synced statistics across platforms.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

Xbox App For PC Now Integrates Your Steam Games

The Xbox App on PC is integrating purchased games from various storefronts, including Steam, currently available only to Xbox Insider program members. This update transforms the Xbox App into a universal launcher for titles from multiple PC gaming storefronts. Microsoft aims to position Xbox as a universal gaming hub in response to competition, with the PlayStation 5 selling 61.7 million units compared to the Xbox Series consoles' 28.3 million units as of September 2024. Microsoft plans a next-generation gaming platform covering consoles, handheld devices, PCs, and cloud gaming. There is speculation about an Xbox-branded Meta Quest 3S headset, and Xbox President Sarah Bond highlighted collaboration between the Xbox division and the Windows team to make Windows the top gaming platform. Future Xbox iterations may resemble gaming PCs, as indicated by the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld introduction.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

The Xbox PC app will soon integrate your various game libraries into one place

Microsoft is transforming the Xbox PC app into a comprehensive gaming hub for players, allowing access to a newly aggregated gaming library for Windows 11 PCs and handheld devices. Xbox Insiders in the PC Gaming Preview will gain early access to this feature, which will debut on the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X during the holiday season. The update aims to consolidate games from various platforms, including Game Pass and Battle.net, into a single interface. When a game is installed from a supported PC storefront, it will automatically appear in the Xbox PC app's 'My library' and 'Most recent' list. Users can curate their libraries by hiding or excluding specific storefronts. Currently, this rollout is exclusive to the Xbox Insider Program. Microsoft is also rumored to be working on unifying its console, PC, and handheld platforms.

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

10 reasons why PGC Barcelona is a must for PC game developers in 2025

The Pocket Gamer Connects (PGC) Barcelona is a two-day conference taking place in 2025, marking the 52nd edition of the series and the first time it is held in Spain. It aims to connect various stakeholders in the gaming industry, including indie developers, studios, and business professionals. The event will feature over 100 expert speakers across 17 themed tracks, with topics on global trends, investment strategies, and emerging technologies. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet representatives from over 500 companies, including major players like Epic Games and Ubisoft, and engage with C-level executives and senior management. The conference emphasizes networking through the MeetToMatch platform and fringe events, while also showcasing Spain's gaming ecosystem. The event will take place at the Hyatt Regency Barcelona Tower and is expected to attract over 1,000 industry professionals.

AppWizard

March 12, 2025

Virtuos is setting up shop in Seoul

Virtuos is establishing a new development studio in Seoul, South Korea, led by general manager Seunghwan “Sean” Yoon. The studio aims to build partnerships with local clients and expand its team through recruitment. Yoon highlights South Korea's significance in the gaming industry, being the world's fourth-largest games market. The studio's physical presence in Seoul will enhance collaboration with local studios. Virtuos has over 4,000 employees globally and is involved in the remake of Metal Gear Solid 3.