NewApp Digest
search bot

modifications

Google Revamps Android App Store Rules, Cuts Fees Amid Global Antitrust Pressure
AppWizard
March 4, 2026

Google Revamps Android App Store Rules, Cuts Fees Amid Global Antitrust Pressure

Alphabet's Google has announced a transformation in app distribution on Android devices, allowing external companies to register and launch their own app stores by paying a one-time fee. This change aims to enhance accessibility for competitors and lower costs for developers. Google will reduce its standard commission for developers from 30% to as low as 15% or 10% in some cases, with implementation expected by June in the US, UK, and EU, and similar changes in Australia, South Korea, and Japan by the end of 2026. Developers using Google’s billing services will incur a flat fee of 5%, while they can also opt for third-party payment processors. Epic Games has expressed approval of these changes, which they believe will help resolve ongoing litigation. Google generated approximately .66 billion in sales from its app marketplace in 2020, and regulatory changes could reduce its gross profit by around billion. The European Commission has accused Google of violating the Digital Markets Act, which could lead to fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue. Google has previously faced €9.5 billion in fines for competition law violations. A US jury ruled in 2023 that certain Android policies violated antitrust law, leading to an injunction requiring Google to allow competing app stores access to its app catalog. Despite regulatory pressures, Google stated that the changes to the developer fee structure were voluntary and not mandated by legal rulings.
Should Marathon change its divisively fast Server Slam time-to-kill?
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

Should Marathon change its divisively fast Server Slam time-to-kill?

Marathon's four-day Server Slam concluded, with Bungie analyzing player feedback and statistics. A notable metric was the number of bottles of alien milk stolen from Tau Ceti. Bungie is considering changes to the time-to-kill (TTK) mechanics and the introduction of a duo queue, amidst divided community opinions on gameplay pace. The current TTK is fast, leading to quick eliminations, while the game's revive system allows teammates to bring back fallen players, affecting combat dynamics. Players are encouraged to be cautious and strategic due to the rapid pace and limited resources available during the Server Slam. Adjustments to TTK could disrupt the game's balance, and Bungie is monitoring feedback closely before the official launch.
Blender temporarily abandons Apple iPad app development in favor of Android
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

Blender temporarily abandons Apple iPad app development in favor of Android

Blender has integrated with GitHub to enhance its collaborative capabilities, allowing users to share projects and collaborate in real-time. This integration enables users to track changes, merge different project branches, and engage with the community for feedback and suggestions.
The Marathon server slam consumed my weekend: 21 hours later, I've gone from 'meh' to believer
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

The Marathon server slam consumed my weekend: 21 hours later, I’ve gone from ‘meh’ to believer

Last year, Embark and Bungie conducted playtests for their extraction shooters, with Bungie's Marathon being their first project outside the Destiny universe in over 15 years. Arc Raiders, developed by Embark, launched as the first mainstream title in the genre, while Marathon faced delays. The author initially felt indifferent towards Marathon but grew enthusiastic after playing for over four days. The game features a PvP experience with looting mechanics, weapon upgrades, and unique gun modifications. Critics compare Marathon to Call of Duty and Apex Legends, but the author finds its pacing more similar to Halo, emphasizing positioning and timing. The game includes movement shooter elements, allowing creative navigation techniques. Weapon designs are visually appealing and feature a variety of modifications. The game's progression system encourages experimentation with builds, and the vendor system aids in resource management. The upcoming full version will include a third map, Outpost, and additional content like the Cryo Archive.
NTLM is going away: what Microsoft’s phaseout means for MSPs and IT teams
Winsage
March 2, 2026

NTLM is going away: what Microsoft’s phaseout means for MSPs and IT teams

The migration from NTLM to Kerberos authentication is essential for improving security in Windows systems, but it faces challenges such as legacy systems and hardcoded authentication. Organizations must identify NTLM usage, conduct testing with NTLM disabled, and make necessary adjustments or upgrades to migrate successfully. Ongoing monitoring is crucial post-migration to prevent NTLM from re-entering the network. NTLM is associated with significant security vulnerabilities and has been exploited by various threat groups, making its elimination a priority for organizations despite potential hesitations to invest in the migration process. Transitioning to Kerberos is seen as a strategic security investment.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
March 1, 2026

Forget ‘debloat apps.’ Sophia Script gives you real control over Windows 11. Here’s how it works.

Windows 11 users often find system settings scattered, making configurations difficult to access. The Sophia Script for Windows is an open-source PowerShell module designed to debloat and optimize Windows 11 and 10. It requires manual modifications for customization and can be downloaded via PowerShell or from GitHub. Users must extract files, run the SophiaScriptWrapper.exe, and import the Sophia.ps1 file to customize and export their script. To execute the script, users must navigate to the script's directory in PowerShell, set execution policies, and run the customized script. Individual functions can also be executed by navigating to the script directory and using specific commands. The Sophia Script offers extensive control over system-level functions, allowing for deep customization of privacy settings and system behaviors, but may not be suitable for all users due to its complexity.
Microsoft testing Windows 11 batch file security improvements
Winsage
February 28, 2026

Microsoft testing Windows 11 batch file security improvements

Microsoft has released new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds that enhance security and performance for batch files and CMD scripts. IT administrators can now activate a secure processing mode by adding the LockBatchFilesInUse registry value, which prevents modifications to batch files while they are running. This update also requires signature validation only once per batch file, improving performance. Additionally, the Shared Audio feature has been refined, allowing users to share audio across multiple devices with individual volume sliders and a new taskbar indicator. The feature now supports more Bluetooth LE Audio accessories, including Samsung Galaxy Buds 4, Sony WF-1000XM6, and Xbox Wireless Headset. These updates are available for Windows Insiders in the Beta and Dev channels with specific preview builds installed.
Windows 11 27H2: Microsoft splits the Canary channel – Is the big overhaul finally coming?
Winsage
February 24, 2026

Windows 11 27H2: Microsoft splits the Canary channel – Is the big overhaul finally coming?

The software department in Redmond is preparing for a significant update named 27H2, set for 2027, aimed at addressing legacy issues from older Windows versions. The Windows Insider Program is currently testing the 28000 series, with a notable shift to the 29500 build series indicating a "platform lift" that includes enhancements to the kernel and hardware abstraction layer (HAL). Microsoft plans to phase out VBScript and WordPad, eliminate support for outdated printer driver architectures and certain legacy file systems, and adopt a "core OS" approach to optimize performance for AI technologies. This update is seen as a strategic retreat from the idea of "Windows 12," focusing on stability and a comprehensive overhaul of the underlying architecture while avoiding market fragmentation. However, there are concerns that substantial changes could render older hardware or specialized software obsolete.
Minecraft Slimefun Dupe: Is It Real?
AppWizard
February 23, 2026

Minecraft Slimefun Dupe: Is It Real?

Slimefun is a server-side plugin for Minecraft that enhances the vanilla experience by adding new items, machines, and crafting possibilities without requiring client-side modifications. It allows players to create automated farms, develop tools, and build factories, encouraging experimentation and strategic planning through a complex crafting system. The plugin's modular design enables server administrators to customize it for different player preferences. There are rumors of item duplication glitches associated with Slimefun, with players claiming to find methods to multiply items. Historically, some legitimate glitches have existed, but developers actively patch these exploits. Engaging in item duplication is frowned upon as it disrupts the game’s economy, creates unfair advantages, and can lead to penalties such as temporary suspensions or permanent bans. Duplication undermines the integrity of gameplay, leading to disillusionment among honest players and potential technical issues on servers. Legitimate methods for duplicating items in Slimefun are largely nonexistent, as the plugin aims to maintain a balanced experience. Players are encouraged to build efficient farms and explore the game world for resource gathering, focusing on creativity and collaboration rather than unethical duplication methods.
Search