international Archives

AppWizard

June 29, 2025

Russia Launches State-Run Messaging App

Russia has introduced a state-backed messaging application, announced by President Vladimir Putin, aimed at providing a homegrown alternative to platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The initiative addresses national security concerns and seeks to enhance control over the digital landscape. The app will facilitate messaging, bill payments, form completions, and access to official records, all on a single platform. It promises standard messaging features and enhanced security measures. However, there are concerns about privacy and potential government surveillance, which may affect user adoption. This initiative is part of Russia's broader strategy to foster a self-sufficient technology ecosystem.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

We asked cybersecurity experts to build a privacy toolbox for $10 per month – here’s what they came up with, and more

In the digital landscape, online activities are monitored, leading to targeted advertising, scams, and privacy breaches. Individuals can enhance their digital security through various tools, including VPNs, antivirus software, password managers, secure browsers, encrypted messaging apps, and data removal services. VPNs protect internet traffic through encryption, with options like Mo Harber-Lamond at .91/month, Surfshark starting at .99/month, and ExpressVPN from .99/month. Antivirus software, such as Amber Bouman at .17/month, Norton 360 Deluxe from .17/month, and Malwarebytes Plus from .81/month, defends against malware and phishing. Password managers like Amber Bouman at .99/month, Bitwarden (free), and NordPass from .29/month help secure passwords. Secure browsers include George Phillips (free), Vivaldi (free), and Tor (free), which prioritize user privacy. Encrypted messaging apps like George Phillips (free), Session (free), and Threema (one-time payment) enhance communication security. Data removal services, such as Mo Harber-Lamond at .29/month, Optery from .99/month, and PrivacyBee from .99/month, help reduce personal data exposure. Budget-friendly options for privacy tools can be assembled for under /month, while premium bundles can cost around /month. The highest privacy-focused bundle totals /month, featuring Mullvad VPN, Proton Pass, Tor, and Session. Mobile privacy protection can be achieved for .01/month with NordVPN and Bitdefender Mobile Security. The Proton Unlimited bundle, priced at .99/month, offers an all-in-one solution with various encrypted services.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Lumino City, FRAMED 2, KORG Kaossilator, more

This afternoon, there are Android game and app deals available, including a complimentary credit for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Fold 7, Galaxy Watch 8, and select devices, as well as Samsung credit for the new OLED Samsung AI Smart Monitor. Lumino City is an award-winning puzzle adventure game where players help Lumi find her missing grandfather by navigating a handcrafted environment. The game has received several international awards, including a BAFTA for Artistic Achievement, and is available on the Play Store for Android devices.

AppWizard

June 23, 2025

Best Android apps to split bills in 2025

Traveling or dining out with family and friends can lead to challenges in splitting bills. Various bill-splitting applications are available to simplify this process. Splitwise allows users to track expenses, create groups for bill-splitting, and input entries offline, supporting multiple currencies. It has a free version and a paid plan for full functionality. Settle Up enables users to share expenses equally or differently, with a feature that allows non-users to join via a shareable link. It supports various currencies and provides real-time exchange rates, with both free and paid versions available. Splid offers features for group travel, accommodating uneven shares and supporting over 150 currencies. Users can download expense summaries in PDF or Excel formats and use the app online or offline. Venmo is a mobile payment platform that allows easy money transfers and cost-splitting among friends, with no-fee transfers for shared expenses. Tab is designed for dining, allowing users to upload a bill photo, select items to pay for, and automatically calculate each person's share, including tax and tip, while integrating with Venmo for payments.

AppWizard

June 22, 2025

Victoria 3 is playable for free this weekend, and on a 70% discount until Thursday

Victoria 3, a grand strategy game by Paradox, is available for free play until Monday and is currently offered at a 70% discount, reducing its price to £12.50 until Thursday. The game allows players to simulate the effects of the Industrial Revolution on a pre-industrial nation, managing various aspects such as political structures and trade routes within a dynamic trade market.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

Debunking the grey market beyond Steam

Alternative distribution in the PC gaming industry is growing, with developers increasingly selling Steam keys through third-party platforms like Fanatical and Humble. Valve's Steam platform is projected to generate .8 billion in revenue in 2024, while the Epic Games Store reported .09 billion last year. Developers can request up to 5,000 standard release keys from Valve for sale on other platforms, adhering to pricing guidelines. Marketplaces like G2A mix approved keys and resold keys, while e-stores ensure all keys are legitimate. The grey market refers to the resale of keys that undermines publishers' profits, often due to regional pricing discrepancies. Developers can manage the grey market by monitoring key sales and implementing strategies like region-locking and pricing adjustments.

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

‘A Minecraft Movie’ Streaming on Max: Release Date and Time

A Minecraft Movie will premiere on the Max streaming service on June 20 at 12:01 a.m. PT/3:01 a.m. ET. The film is a live-action adaptation of the video game, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Jack Black, Jason Momoa, Emma Myers, Danielle Brooks, Sebastian Eugene Hansen, and Jennifer Coolidge. Directed by Jared Hess, the movie explores the cubic Overworld as the protagonists attempt to return to their reality. Viewers can subscribe to Max through various plans, including ad-supported and ad-free options, or rent the film on Amazon and Fandango at Home.

Tech Optimizer

June 17, 2025

Novel Lyrix ransomware sets sights on Windows systems

Freedman HealthCare experienced a significant data breach involving 52.4 GB of sensitive data and 42,204 files, allegedly compromised by the hacking group World Leaks, also known as Hunters International. The group has threatened to release the compromised information by Tuesday morning.

AppWizard

June 17, 2025

‘Stellar Blade’ Rockets To A Million PC Sales In Three Days

Stellar Blade achieved sales of one million copies within three days of its PC launch, contributing to total sales of 3 million since its release in April 2024, a 50% increase. Approximately 58% of sales occurred in China, where the game is priced lower than in the U.S. The game reached a peak concurrent player count of over 190,000 and received a 92% rating on Steam and an 86 score on Metacritic. SHIFTUP plans further updates and is considering a sequel for 2027, with no current plans to bring the game to Xbox. Sony is focusing on releasing major AAA titles on PC, while multiplayer games are launched simultaneously on PC.

AppWizard

June 16, 2025

Lilo & Stitch Box Office Surges Past Minecraft’s Global Earnings

Disney's live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch has surpassed 8 million in global earnings, with 6 million from domestic markets and 2 million internationally. The film's opening weekend generated 6 million, and 57.3% of its total revenue comes from international markets. It has a 76% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Meanwhile, the Minecraft movie leads the box office with 1 million in earnings, appealing to a wide fanbase, especially in Asia and Europe. The competition between the two films is notable, with Lilo & Stitch speculated to potentially reach the billion-dollar milestone. Both Disney and Warner Bros. are considering sequels for their respective films.