news updates Archives

AppWizard

November 26, 2024

2K Has Removed Its Launcher from Epic & Steam Games

The publisher behind franchises such as BioShock, Civilization, and Mafia announced that games including BioShock Remastered, BioShock 2 Remastered, BioShock Infinite, The Quarry, and Marvel's Midnight Suns will be launched without a separate launcher. They are implementing algorithms to remove the launcher for titles like Mafia Trilogy Definitive Edition, Civilization VI, Civilization V, XCOM 2, and XCOM: Chimera Squad. The publisher has also addressed concerns about the launcher potentially appearing when launching games through Steam and encourages players to connect via their 80 Level Talent platform, Discord server, and social media channels.

AppWizard

November 11, 2024

Sony Boss: PSN Linking for PC Games Is for Players’ Safety

The requirement for players to link their PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts has been implemented for both live service and single-player games, including Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. This has led to player dissatisfaction and mixed reviews for the game. Helldivers 2 faced negative feedback and "review-bombing," which resulted in Sony removing the PSN account linking requirement for that game. However, other upcoming Sony titles on PC may still require account linking, which the company states is necessary for security purposes.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

Wear OS 5 blocks one of the best watch apps and it’s high time Google fixes things

Google has introduced the XML Watch Face Format (WFF) for Wear OS, optimizing memory usage and enhancing battery life for smartwatches. However, this has led to a decline in creativity for Android watch faces, resulting in the loss of popular apps like Facer. The WFF restricts complex animations and features, limiting memory usage to 10MB in ambient mode and 100MB in interactive mode. Users of the Galaxy Watch 7 and Pixel Watch 3 are left with default options or limited WFF alternatives, discouraging innovation. Facer is working with Google to integrate its service with Wear OS 5, but the transition requires converting its library of 500,000 faces to XML, which would strip away many features. Users would need to repurchase previously acquired faces, as the current Play Store structure lacks adequate support for developers. There are suggestions for Google to allow third-party installations of WFF faces or acquire Facer to improve watch face discovery.

Winsage

October 2, 2024

‘Comfortable, fun, familiar’: Why Microsoft is trying to turn its AI chatbot into a digital friend | CNN Business

Artificial intelligence chatbots are being developed to assist users with various tasks, but many find them rigid and overly formal. Microsoft is enhancing its chatbot, Copilot, to create a more engaging experience by introducing features like real-time voice interactions and the ability to interpret images and text. The updated Copilot aims to communicate in a warm tone and provide emotional support, distinguishing itself in a competitive market. Microsoft envisions Copilot as a digital companion that integrates into users' lives, offering assistance beyond productivity. The company has addressed previous criticisms of its chatbot by refining its responses and hiring voice actors to create distinct voice options. New features include a daily function for weather and news updates, integration with the Edge browser, and a testing platform called "Copilot Labs" for users to explore upcoming functionalities. Microsoft assures that privacy concerns related to data retention have been addressed with the new Copilot Vision feature.

AppWizard

September 20, 2024

Ukraine bans Telegram app on state-issued devices because of Russian security threat

Ukraine has banned the installation of the Telegram messaging app on state-issued devices for government officials, military personnel, and workers in defense and critical infrastructure sectors due to cybersecurity threats posed by Russia. The ban, announced by Ukraine's Security and Defense Council, is a precaution during the ongoing war with Russia. Concerns have been raised about Telegram being exploited for cyberattacks, phishing schemes, and tracking user locations. Exceptions to the ban are allowed for individuals who need to use the app for official duties, while Ukrainian citizens can still use Telegram on personal devices. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to continue using the app for communication with the public. Ukraine's intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, has expressed concerns about the app's security vulnerabilities, emphasizing the need to prioritize national security over freedom of speech in this context.

AppWizard

September 19, 2024

Android Custom Lock Screen: How to Enhance Your Experience With Your Smartphone?

Nearly 97% of Americans own smartphones, engaging with them every 10 to 12 minutes. The default lock screen on Android devices features a background image, a clock, and basic unlocking options. The Android custom lock screen allows for dynamic displays, real-time news updates, sports scores, and weather updates. Benefits of the Android custom lock screen include personalization through AI, enhanced security, and aesthetic appeal. Popular customization options include clock style, wallpaper, shortcuts, notifications, and widgets. The Glance smart lock screen is a premium feature on devices from brands like Samsung and Xiaomi, offering real-time updates, privacy assurance, customizable content, AI-driven personalization, and interactive elements.

Winsage

September 3, 2024

Windows 11 Might Let AI Go Through Your Video & Audio Files

The updated Recall feature has raised concerns due to its previous ability to capture screenshots of user activity, leading to fears about potential data leaks and privacy issues. While the intelligent media search aims to enhance efficiency in locating files, users are apprehensive about granting unrestricted access to their personal data.

AppWizard

August 29, 2024

Is Telegram, Ukraine’s most popular messenger app, a Russian Trojan horse?

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was recently arrested in Paris on accusations of facilitating terrorism through his app, raising security concerns in Ukraine where Telegram has become the most popular messenger since the Russian invasion in 2022. A poll shows that over half of Ukrainians now prefer Telegram for news updates, a significant rise from 20% in 2021. Telegram's anonymity has led to its misuse, with Russian forces exploiting the platform to create fake accounts and spread disinformation. The app has a history of being utilized in political campaigns, influencing public perception, and has been linked to harassment of journalists and anti-corruption activists. Despite concerns about accountability and misinformation, Ukrainian authorities are not considering a ban on Telegram but are exploring regulations for transparency and accountability.

AppWizard

August 25, 2024

Telegram messaging app CEO reportedly arrested in France

Billionaire Pavel Durov, founder of the Telegram messaging app, was arrested at an airport near Paris linked to an investigation about the platform's moderation of criminal activities. He was on a private jet from Azerbaijan when authorities executed an arrest warrant as part of a preliminary police investigation. Telegram has gained popularity in regions like Russia and Ukraine and has been used as a key communication tool during the ongoing conflict since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Durov's net worth is estimated at approximately NZD 1.85 billion.

AppWizard

August 3, 2024

Maybe I shouldn’t say this in a PC gaming outlet, but I had a great time after installing Malware

The author installed over ten pieces of malware on their machine within half an hour and anticipates adding more software. They discovered a puzzle game called Malware, which is disguised as a cybersecurity challenge, and involves avoiding malware installations while navigating installation wizards. The game features a narrative about time pirates draining bank accounts, and the author has incurred a fictional debt of 0,000 in the game, which can be recovered in chunks of by avoiding malware. The game is priced at .40 (£2) on Steam and evokes nostalgia for early online gaming experiences.