international

AppWizard
September 27, 2026
Gaelco, a Spanish video game label from the 1990s, is known for its unique arcade games, including World Rally, Thunder Hoop, and TH Strikes Back. QUByte Interactive is set to revive Thunder Hoop and TH Strikes Back, launching them on Steam on October 8. Thunder Hoop features a genetically engineered hero fighting mutants unleashed by Dr. Genbreak, offering hand-blasting action and imaginative storytelling.
BetaBeacon
September 24, 2026
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chips can process more AI features on the phone itself, making responses quicker and keeping more data on the device. The Extreme chip's AI processor has 50% more memory to handle tasks independently, and the graphics chip includes AI-dedicated cores for gaming. The chip allows for 8K video recording at 60 frames per second and 4K slow motion at 240 frames per second. Manufacturers have the option to choose between the Extreme chip for advanced features or a standard chip for more budget-friendly smartphones.
AppWizard
September 20, 2026
MapQuest has retained the name of Lake Ontario, leading to a rise in its popularity and a top position in the App Store charts. The app, launched in 1996, has recently begun supporting Android Auto, allowing users to integrate it into their vehicle's infotainment system. Users can connect their devices via USB or wirelessly, provided their vehicle supports it. Once connected, MapQuest offers turn-by-turn navigation and real-time traffic updates. However, its navigation services are currently limited to the United States and Canada, and some users have reported interface bugs. Alternatives to MapQuest on Android Auto include Waze, Sygic, and TomTom Go.
Winsage
September 15, 2026
Iranian state cyber actors are targeting individuals through popular messaging applications, using surveillance and data-stealing malware known as "Chosen Brick," which has been in use since at least 2025. This malware is designed for Windows systems and enables the theft of personal data, allowing Iranian spies to monitor perceived threats such as dissidents, activists, and journalists. The attacks typically begin with messages sent via WhatsApp or Telegram, impersonating trusted contacts. Attackers conduct extensive research on their targets to craft convincing messages that encourage victims to download malicious files disguised as legitimate applications. Once executed, Chosen Brick operates stealthily, evading detection and establishing a connection for command-and-control communications. It can enumerate processes, capture screen and audio content, extract sensitive information, and even wipe infected systems. Organizations suspecting compromise are advised to engage IT providers for investigations and to inform staff about potential risks. Recent alerts follow cyberattacks on water and energy sectors linked to Iran, with ongoing concerns about the implications for cybersecurity amid escalating military tensions. Additionally, five US agencies have reported that attackers are using AI-generated scripts to exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure systems.
AppWizard
September 15, 2026
On August 27, 2026, a class action lawsuit was filed in San Mateo County Superior Court by three California gamers—Alexander Shimota, Ricardo Camargo, and John Elliott—against Valve Corporation and ten video game publishers, accusing them of colluding to maintain uniform pricing for PC games across digital storefronts. The lawsuit alleges that Valve requires publishers on its Steam platform to agree to a most-favored-nation clause, preventing them from offering lower prices on competing platforms, which stifles competition and limits consumer choice. The ten implicated publishers include Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, and Sony Interactive Entertainment. The lawsuit is filed under California's Cartwright Act and claims that the coordinated pricing strategy harms consumers by reducing product diversity and inflating prices. Valve's commission structure, which has largely remained unchanged, is central to the plaintiffs' argument. Valve's co-founder, Gabe Newell, has previously denied dictating prices to third-party developers. The lawsuit is distinct from a prior case, Wolfire Games v. Valve, which focuses on monopoly abuse against developers rather than consumer pricing. Additionally, Valve faces a parallel £2 billion class action in the UK regarding similar pricing allegations. The outcome of these cases could significantly impact the pricing landscape for PC games and the practices of digital storefronts.
AppWizard
September 15, 2026
BPMG released a demo version of its cooking simulation game, Cooking Adventure, for Steam PC on the 15th. The game, known as My Little Chef in South Korea, allows players to act as chefs in various themed restaurants, with a mobile version that has 33 million downloads. The demo features two restaurants (Grill House and Sushi House) with 20 stages total. The full version, launching in November, will include 12 restaurants, 540 stages, cooking contests, and leaderboard competitions. BPMG aims to gather feedback from demo players and promote the game through videos and influencer collaborations.
AppWizard
September 12, 2026
Saber Interactive has shifted its focus from North America for game development to primarily publishing activities in the region, with game creation now centered in a network of global subsidiaries. Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits expressed a willingness to explore diverse markets and local talent, stating, “We are not afraid of any territories.” He noted that some publishers hesitate to work in unfamiliar territories, but Saber aims to find and support talented individuals globally. Willits also identified overspecialization among developers as a challenge in the gaming sector but suggested that the industry's situation may not be as severe as reported, highlighting the potential for innovation through global collaborations.
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