innovate Archives

AppWizard

October 2, 2026

Opera offers an eSIM in its Android browser: available in 47 regions, with 3 GB free

Opera has introduced its own eSIMs, allowing users to install them directly through the Opera browser for a data-only service tailored for travelers. Users can access a complimentary 3GB data package valid for three days post-activation in select countries, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Canada, UAE, Brazil, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Poland, without needing to provide payment information or an email address. The eSIM service is built into the Opera browser for Android, requiring a device that supports eSIM hardware and runs on Android 10 or newer. Users can activate the service by navigating to their profile, selecting the eSIM option, and confirming their choice. Once the free package is used, additional data plans of 3GB, 5GB, or 10GB are available. The eSIM can be used across multiple countries, with activation occurring upon arrival in the selected country, although it is not available in Ukraine.

AppWizard

September 30, 2026

I have saved GTA 5 from death and also added tornadoes

The modding community for Grand Theft Auto 5 is actively working to innovate and transform the game, with recent efforts focusing on creating a mod called TornadoV, which adds massive tornadoes to the game's environment. This mod allows players to configure tornadoes and use noclip mode for easier navigation. The game recently encountered a significant issue where it would not launch, prompting extensive troubleshooting. Despite these challenges, the addition of tornadoes enhances the chaotic gameplay experience, reflecting the community's creative spirit.

AppWizard

September 30, 2026

Another Steam page is being turned into an algorithm as Valve aims to show “10x more games to customers”

Steam is transitioning from a manual calendar-based promotional strategy to an algorithm-driven showcase of games, starting in early 2027. The Discounts & Events page will implement this new model to offer a wider array of discounted games tailored to user interests. Valve aims to enhance user experience and increase visibility for game developers through this change.

AppWizard

September 29, 2026

TNS Expands Android Terminal Platform with Bring Your Own App

Transaction Network Services (TNS) has launched a capability called Bring Your Own App (BYOA) for operators in the payment industry, allowing them to create and deploy customer-facing applications on TNS's Android-based unattended payment terminals. BYOA simplifies payment processing, compliance, and certification by managing card capture, PIN collection, encryption, EMV processing, and payment certification. Each operator's application must be approved and signed by TNS before execution on the terminal. This model enables operators to focus on enhancing customer experiences without the usual security and compliance burdens. BYOA is available across TNS's Android-based unattended payment terminal platform, including retail and fuel payment terminals.

Winsage

September 26, 2026

“We’re building Copilot as a new OS,” says Satya Nadella, even as Microsoft strips it from Windows 11

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced a unified Copilot experience that integrates Home, Code, and Autopilot into a single application, transforming the Microsoft 365 suite into a “super app.” Copilot is described as a “new OS for work,” serving as a central hub for productivity across various tasks and devices. The Home section features Chat and Cowork functionalities, while the Office section includes full integration of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The Code feature allows users to create applications using natural language, democratizing app development. Autopilot, previously known as Scout, functions as a virtual colleague that manages tasks and projects. Microsoft has revised its pricing model to include a standard per-user subscription for basic functionalities and a usage-based billing model for advanced features. The announcement on September 25 met the timeline set during the Build 2026 conference, although features are still being rolled out incrementally. The new Copilot experience aims to enhance user interaction with AI without introducing a new operating system.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

Poll: Which new Surface device are you most excited about?

Microsoft has updated its Surface lineup, introducing the refreshed Surface Pro with a 12-inch display and the Surface Laptop with a 13-inch screen, both powered by Snapdragon X2 processors. The Surface Mouse has been revived as part of this update. Microsoft will showcase the Surface Laptop Ultra at an upcoming event. The Surface portfolio has undergone significant changes, including the discontinuation of the Surface Hub, Surface Go, Surface Laptop Go, Surface Studio, Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Duo, Surface Book, Surface Headphones, and Surface Earbuds. The current lineup is more focused, allowing Microsoft to concentrate on delivering high-quality devices.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Your Android phone may no longer stop you from walking into a pole

Google is winding down its "Heads Up" pedestrian safety feature within the Digital Wellbeing suite. The latest beta version of Digital Wellbeing has revealed code strings indicating that users will soon receive an in-app alert about the feature's impending removal. Heads Up, launched in 2021, was designed to enhance pedestrian safety by using motion sensors and location data to remind users to stay aware of their surroundings while walking with an unlocked screen. Initially available for Pixel devices, it later expanded to other Android phones. There is currently no specified timeline for the feature's removal, and Google has not provided a formal statement regarding its discontinuation.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

New Google Maps Navigation Update: Traffic Lights and Stop Sign Pop-Ups on Android Auto

Google Maps is introducing a new feature on Android Auto that displays pop-ups for traffic lights and stop signs at the next turn during navigation, enhancing the driving experience by providing clearer visual cues. This feature is currently being rolled out and is expected to be available to all users soon. Additionally, users have reported issues with the speedometer feature, which disappears when turn-by-turn navigation is not active and inconsistently switches between kilometers per hour and miles per hour. Google has not provided updates on these issues.

AppWizard

September 23, 2026

Optimus Gen 3 Leaked: 5 Details From the APK Images

Images of Tesla's next-generation Optimus robot, Gen 3, were leaked from the Tesla Android app APK by researcher @wholemars, showcasing design assets of both Gen 2.5 and Gen 3. The leak reveals significant design evolution, suggesting enhancements in aesthetics and functionality. Preliminary observations indicate that Gen 3 may feature advanced sensors and improved mobility, along with a more intuitive user interface. This model could position Tesla as a leader in the humanoid robot market and enable diverse applications, from personal assistance to industrial automation.

AppWizard

September 21, 2026

Elden Ring Nightreign is dead, but modders are dabbing on its corpse, with one porting an entire Dark Souls 2 DLC zone as a playable map

Modder Doneda has created a modification for Elden Ring Nightreign, featuring a standalone map inspired by Frozen Eleum Loyce and Frigid Outskirts from Dark Souls 2. A trailer for this project is available on YouTube. Doneda has a history of modding, having restored a cut sewers map from Dark Souls 2. The new map can be downloaded from the Nightreign Nexus, requiring Mod Engine 3 for installation. Doneda plans to create more maps and invites fans to follow their progress on YouTube or support them on Ko-fi. The recent Deep of Night update in Nightreign has introduced new boss fights, while the community has developed various mods, including Yui's Seamless Co-op and TerraMag's weapon integration from other titles.