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AppWizard

April 3, 2025

Buried By Critics: Minecraft Rotten Tomatoes Score Is In

Warner Bros.' A Minecraft Movie has received a 53% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on the first 45 reviews. The film stars Jack Black as Steve, alongside Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, Sebastian Hansen, and Jennifer Coolidge. Critics praised the chemistry between Jack Black and Jason Momoa, the film's faithfulness to Minecraft's spirit, its appeal to kids and families, and director Jared Hess' unique style. However, many reviews criticized the film for its lack of depth and coherence, poor humor and CGI, a corporate feel, and failure to engage older fans. An extended preview of James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film will be shown with screenings of A Minecraft Movie.

AppWizard

April 3, 2025

An Adult Happy Meal? Why McDonald’s Minecraft Meal Hits Different In 2025

In 2025, McDonald's introduced the Minecraft Movie Meal, targeting adults who enjoy the game and collector culture. The meal includes a choice of a Big Mac Meal or a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets Meal, medium fries, and a drink, along with unique add-ons: a limited-edition Nether Flame BBQ Sauce, one of six collectible toys reimagined in Minecraft form, and a digital unlock code for exclusive Minecraft skins and a McDonaldland Add-On Pack. This offering reflects a shift towards catering to adults seeking nostalgic and intentional experiences, as food prices rise and Gen Z emerges as a significant consumer group. The meal aligns with drop culture, featuring limited availability and resale potential, similar to previous successful campaigns like the Adult Happy Meal.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

6 reasons why I think Microsoft should keep the ‘local account’ option in Windows 11

Microsoft has updated Windows 11 to make it more difficult for users to bypass internet and Microsoft account requirements during installation, specifically in builds 26120.3653 and 26200.5516. The "BypassNRO.cmd" script, which allowed the creation of local accounts without an internet connection, has been removed. Local accounts provide enhanced privacy by storing data locally, simplify the setup process without needing an internet connection, and allow unrestricted access to systems in offline environments. Users can choose meaningful folder names with local accounts, and they facilitate smoother Remote Desktop connections compared to Microsoft accounts. Although local accounts can still be created post-installation, there are concerns about their availability in future updates, especially for the Home edition.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft reveals new tool to help with Windows 11 boot recovery crashes

Microsoft is piloting a Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) tool for Windows 11, available to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel for version 24H2. QMR aims to reduce downtime from boot crashes by activating when a device encounters startup issues, transitioning to Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) to reconnect to the network for crash data analysis. Microsoft can then deliver solutions via Windows Update. The feature will be enabled by default on Windows 11 Home devices, while Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise administrators can manage its functionality. The initial rollout allows IT administrators to enable/disable the tool, configure scanning intervals, and conduct readiness tests. Feedback from users is encouraged to improve the tool, though a timeline for general availability has not been announced.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 leak hints at a new UI designed for gaming handhelds

Microsoft is tailoring Windows 11 for the handheld gaming market by exploring a dedicated game mode for portable devices. The latest preview build includes references to a gaming-centric interface that allows users to select their preferred system layout at startup, featuring a fullscreen experience with customizable home apps and shortcuts. Users can activate this mode through OS settings, establishing it as the default interface. The build includes options like “Boot into the full screen experience at device startup” and “Choose your full screen experience,” resembling Steam’s Big Picture mode. These changes may also be integrated into a rumored Xbox handheld, potentially leading to a Windows 11 device rather than a standalone portable Xbox. The new features are linked to the existing Game Bar, which provides essential gaming functionalities. This shift towards a dedicated UI for handheld devices is seen as necessary, as Windows has historically prioritized keyboard and mouse interactions. The evolution could position Windows handhelds as a compelling option for gamers, especially in light of competition from Valve's SteamOS.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

This simple upgrade is making old computers feel new again

Many users experience issues with sluggish laptops and frozen screens, prompting a reconsideration of their devices. Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10, making it a good time to upgrade to Windows 11, specifically the Pro version, which is currently priced at .97, down from .99. Windows 11 Pro offers faster startup times, enhanced battery life, improved application performance, a redesigned user interface, productivity features like snap layouts and widgets, and an AI-powered assistant called Copilot. The Pro version also includes remote desktop access, BitLocker device encryption for security, and advanced features like Azure AD, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. There are fewer than 75 licenses remaining at the promotional price.

BetaBeacon

April 2, 2025

Nintendo Today! – A smart device app from Nintendo for iOS/Android

The Nintendo Today app provides daily updates on news about the latest Nintendo Switch 2 system, video games, favorite characters, and more. Users can personalize their experience with features such as an animated calendar with themes like Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Animal Crossing, an event schedule for Nintendo Direct presentations and game releases, and the ability to customize the home screen with art from favorite Nintendo game series and themed wallpapers.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Latest Market Trends for Android TV App Development in 2025

The smart TV market is projected to grow from USD 225.43 billion in 2023 to USD 252.41 billion in 2024, reaching USD 623.62 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.97% from 2024 to 2032. This growth is driven by increased global internet penetration and better access to high-speed broadband, allowing consumers to stream content on smart TVs. The rising popularity of smart TVs is attributed to the convenience of accessing various applications for streaming, gaming, and fitness. Businesses are investing in smart Android TV app development to engage customers effectively, as audiences spend more time on screens. Key trends in Android TV app development for 2025 include the use of AI and ML for personalized experiences, AR and VR for immersive interactions, 5G technology for enhanced performance, instant apps for improved user experience, cross-platform development, on-demand applications, and blockchain technology for security. The cost of developing an Android TV app ranges from ,000 to ,000, depending on complexity, with more intricate applications potentially exceeding 0,000.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 Gets Quick Machine Recovery to Fix Boot Failures via the Internet

Microsoft has introduced Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) as part of its Windows Resiliency Initiative to improve the security and reliability of Windows 11 following a global incident with a faulty update. QMR addresses boot failures by allowing users to access the recovery environment, connect to the internet for automatic troubleshooting, and receive targeted fixes via Windows Update. Currently, it is being tested in the Windows 11 24H2 Insider Preview Build 26120.3653 and will be enabled by default for Home edition users. Users can access QMR by entering the recovery environment, selecting Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options. Additionally, an internet-based recovery option in Windows Settings can repair system components while preserving user data.