intellectual property Archives

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

Soulslike game Wuchang is officially getting a sequel developed by its creator’s new studio after the original team reportedly disbanded

The 2025 soulslike title Wuchang: Fallen Feathers has attracted five million players, marking a significant success for developers Leenzee and publisher 505 Games. Xia Siyuan, the game's director and producer, was dismissed from Leenzee earlier this year, along with other staff members. In April, the Wuchang intellectual property was sold to Digital Bros for approximately million. Recently, 505 Games announced a partnership with Xia Siyuan, who now leads his own studio, Indolphinity, to develop a sequel to Wuchang: Fallen Feathers.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

There’s now an app that brings Samsung Messages back from the dead

Samsung has discontinued its native messaging app in the U.S., prompting the emergence of a new application called Messages by OzarksMade, which aims to replicate the Samsung Messages experience. This app closely resembles the original Samsung Messages in layout and design, including a similar app icon. Messages by OzarksMade supports SMS, MMS, group messaging, scheduled messaging, local backups, and RCS through a "Companion Mode" that utilizes Google Messages in the background. There is also a standalone mode for users who do not require RCS. The app is currently available for beta sign-ups on the Google Play Store, with plans for a full release priced at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Samsung's recent decision to discontinue its native messaging app in the U.S. has left many long-time Galaxy users feeling adrift, forced to adapt to Google Messages and its unfamiliar interface. In response to this shift, a new application named Messages by OzarksMade has emerged, aiming to recreate the beloved Samsung Messages experience. Familiarity at Its Core The standout feature of Messages by OzarksMade is its striking resemblance to Samsung Messages. The developer has crafted an interface that mirrors the layout and design of the original app, including an icon that echoes its predecessor. This attention to detail is intended for users who prefer the aesthetics of Samsung’s messaging platform and are reluctant to transition to the distinctly different Google Messages. Messages by OzarksMade boasts a comprehensive suite of features, including: SMS and MMS support Group messaging capabilities Scheduled messaging Local backups RCS support through a unique “Companion Mode” It’s worth noting that the RCS functionality operates via Google Messages in the background, as third-party developers lack direct access to Google's RCS infrastructure. For users who do not require RCS, the app also offers a standalone mode for SMS and MMS messaging. While the app's premise is intriguing, potential users should exercise caution. As with any new application handling sensitive data such as text messages, it’s advisable to thoroughly evaluate its performance before designating it as the default messaging solution. Furthermore, it’s essential to remember that this app is not an official Samsung product, despite its close visual alignment with Samsung Messages. The app's design could raise legal questions, particularly regarding intellectual property rights. Samsung may take issue with the app's resemblance to its own messaging platform, potentially leading to challenges if it perceives infringement on its branding or interface. For those nostalgic for Samsung Messages, the app presents an interesting alternative. Currently, it is open for beta sign-ups on the Google Play Store, with plans for a full release priced at [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Joe Maring / Android AuthorityTL;DR A new app called Messages by OzarksMade promises to recreate the Samsung Messages experience after Samsung discontinued its native messaging app in the US. The app clones Samsung Messages’ look, feel, and even its app icon while offering SMS, MMS, and even RCS support. Interestingly, RCS support is offered through a “Companion Mode” that uses Google Messages in the background. Samsung officially pulled the plug on Samsung Messages in the US earlier this month. Much to their disappointment, long-term Galaxy users have had to switch to Google Messages and become familiar with a brand-new interface after years of using Samsung Messages. Now, a new app called Messages by OzarksMade is trying to recreate the Samsung Messages experience almost entirely.The app’s biggest selling point is familiarity. The screenshots shared by the developer, Messages by OzarksMade, look remarkably similar to Samsung Messages, right down to the interface, layout, and even the app icon, which is clearly also inspired by Samsung Messages. The developers say that the app is designed for One UI and Galaxy users who miss Samsung’s messaging experience and don’t want to switch to Google Messages’ different design. According to the developer, the app supports SMS, MMS, group messaging, scheduled messages, local backups, and even RCS. However, there’s an important catch: RCS works through a “Companion Mode” that uses Google Messages in the background, since third-party developers don’t have direct access to Google’s RCS infrastructure. There’s also a standalone mode for SMS and MMS if you don’t need RCS.We haven’t had a chance to try the app ourselves, so we can’t verify how well it works or whether it delivers on its promise of being a Samsung Messages substitute. As with any new app that handles your text messages, it’s worth being cautious before making it your default messaging app. You should also remember that this isn’t an official Samsung product, despite how closely it resembles one. That resemblance could also become an issue. The app intentionally mimics Samsung Messages’ design, and while we’re unsure whether it crosses any legal lines, Samsung could challenge it if it believes its branding, interface, or other intellectual property has been copied too closely.For users who miss Samsung Messages, though, that’s also what makes this app interesting. Whether it sticks around for the long term is another question entirely.The app is currently open for beta sign-ups through the Google Play Store. The developer’s website notes that once it is officially released, it’ll cost $0.99. Thank you for being part of our community. Read our Comment Policy before posting." temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" ].99." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].99. However, it is not an official Samsung product, and its design may raise potential legal issues regarding intellectual property rights.

AppWizard

July 19, 2026

18 years later, Gears of War 2 finally comes to PC as a free download

Gears of War 2: Hollow is an unofficial PC port of the 2008 game Gears of War 2, developed by Helios, nearly two decades after its original Xbox 360 release. This custom community build includes the original campaign, multiplayer, horde, and cooperative modes, along with all downloadable content maps. The port is based on a flawed, previously unreleased PC development build and incorporates all content from the Xbox 360 version for single-player gameplay. The multiplayer aspect is still in testing and is advised to be treated as a beta version. The port is compatible with Windows and has been reported to work on Linux-based systems like the Steam Deck. Players can use either a controller or keyboard and mouse, although the user interface defaults to controller prompts. The port features a launcher for customizing settings such as resolution, frame rate limits, and graphical details. Players are encouraged to have a legally obtained copy of Gears of War 2 to respect intellectual property rights.

AppWizard

July 15, 2026

The devil works hard but AI ripoffs work harder as Meccha Chameleon falls victim to hordes of copycats coming out of the woodwork

Meccha Chameleon has experienced concept appropriation, with its unique gameplay mechanics being imitated by various games, including Scribble Hunt, which features a hide-and-seek format similar to Meccha Chameleon's chameleon-inspired gameplay. Other games, such as REPO, have also faced similar challenges with ripoffs on platforms like the Nintendo eShop. Developers from Peak have expressed frustration, preferring players to pirate their original game rather than engage with what they consider inferior imitations. The indie game community is increasingly concerned about the difficulty of standing out in a saturated market, where successful games attract opportunistic imitators. Meccha Chameleon has over 15 million players, highlighting the importance of supporting original creators in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

July 8, 2026

Cracked version of Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced leaked days prior to official release despite Denuvo DRM protection — Denuvo unable to stop crackers, with some finding ways to completely remove it from other titles

The Denuvo anti-tamper technology has been bypassed in pre-release versions of Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, allowing unauthorized copies to circulate since June 7, 2026, ahead of its official launch on July 9, 2026. This incident follows similar leaks of major titles earlier in the year, including Forza Horizon 6, LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, and Subnautica 2. Critics argue that Denuvo causes performance issues and intrusive online checks, raising doubts about its effectiveness and necessity in protecting single-player titles.

AppWizard

July 6, 2026

Compulsion Games is returning to independent management amid sweeping Xbox reorganization: ‘Our immediate priority is to support our team’

Xbox has announced a restructuring initiative that will eliminate 1,600 roles within its division, contributing to a total reduction of 3,200 positions planned for the 2027 financial year. Four game development studios, including Compulsion Games, will transition out of Microsoft’s ownership, allowing Compulsion Games to regain its independence and retain ownership of its intellectual property and game catalog. Compulsion Games expressed gratitude for its time with Xbox and emphasized its commitment to supporting its team during the transition, while remaining optimistic about its future and focus on creating unique games.

AppWizard

July 6, 2026

Epic settles with Fortnite leaker who shared South Park, Minecraft and Overwatch collabs

Epic Games has settled its legal dispute with former contractor Hayden Cohen, who was accused of leaking sensitive information about upcoming Fortnite skins and events. The settlement prohibits Cohen from possessing, accessing, using, or disclosing any of Epic's confidential or trade secret information. The case highlighted Epic's commitment to protecting its intellectual property and maintaining confidentiality in partnerships. The settlement does not involve financial compensation. Cohen had previously shared leaked information on social media before his account was deactivated.

AppWizard

July 3, 2026

GOG Makes Classic PC Game for Free

GOG is offering the 2004 game Nexus: The Jupiter Incident for free for a limited time of two days and 17 hours. After this promotional period, it will return to its standard price. If claimed during the promotion, it will remain permanently in the user's GOG library as a DRM-free copy. The game was developed by Mithis Entertainment and published by HD Interactive, and it has a Metacritic score of 77, a 4.4 out of 5 stars rating on GOG, and an 86% approval rating on Steam. The intellectual property is currently held by THQ Nordic.

Winsage

July 1, 2026

Steve Ballmer once trashed Linux as “a cancer” — now it’s saving Windows 10 holdouts

In 2001, Steve Ballmer, then CEO of Microsoft, referred to Linux as a "cancer" threatening Microsoft's intellectual property and likened its users to "communist thieves." By 2016, after Microsoft ported SQL Server to Linux, Ballmer expressed enthusiasm for the change and acknowledged that the conflict with open-source had benefited Microsoft's financial success. In 2020, Microsoft President Brad Smith admitted the company had been on the wrong side of history regarding open source and noted the need for change. Microsoft has since embraced open-source technologies, introducing products like Azure Linux 4.0, built on Fedora. As Windows 11's transition becomes difficult for users, advocacy groups have criticized Microsoft for ending support for Windows 10, which could lead to millions of discarded computers. Microsoft extended Windows 10's life through an Extended Security Updates program until October 14, 2026, with a recent announcement pushing it to 2027. Rising hardware costs and design flaws in Windows 11 have led some users to consider alternatives like Linux. A survey revealed that 30% of PCs are still running Windows 10, and a poll showed that 68% of respondents plan to stick with Windows 10 through 2027.

AppWizard

July 1, 2026

PlayStation PC Retreat Is A Mistake, As 18+ Months Late Ports Made Money Without Costing a Single Console Sale

In recent years, PlayStation has shifted its strategy by porting titles previously exclusive to PlayStation 4 and 5, such as God of War and The Last of Us, to PC. This transition was confirmed by SIE's president, Hideaki Nishino, who stated that future ports will focus on multiplayer and live-service games. Former PlayStation head Shawn Layden discussed the rationale behind this strategy, emphasizing the importance of reaching a broader audience beyond console owners. He noted that the late PC ports have successfully introduced PlayStation's characters to new players and have not negatively impacted core sales, as those waiting for PC releases were unlikely to buy the hardware. Layden supports staggered PC releases to maintain platform exclusivity, which he believes is essential for differentiating the PlayStation brand and driving hardware sales. He cautioned against a day-and-date release strategy, which could dilute the brand's identity. PlayStation is also mindful of competition from Xbox, which releases exclusives on PC simultaneously, and is committed to keeping certain titles exclusive to its consoles.