objectives Archives

AppWizard

May 21, 2025

New Google AI Pro and $249/month Ultra subscription announced at I/O

On May 20, Google launched two new artificial intelligence subscription plans: AI Pro and AI Ultra. The AI Ultra plan is currently only available in the United States but will expand to other regions soon. The AI Pro plan enhances the existing Gemini Advanced plan with features like Flow, a new AI filmmaking tool, and Notebook LM, offering higher rate limits and integrated capabilities across Google applications such as Gmail, Docs, and Vids. It provides up to 2 TB of storage for .99 per month, with a 50% discount for the first three months. The AI Ultra plan includes advanced models like Veo 3 and 2.5 Pro Deep Think, early access to experimental features, and a YouTube Premium subscription, along with 30 TB of storage. The Ultra plan also features Project Mariner and Agent Mode for streamlined task management.

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

The $1 Billion database bet: What Databricks’ Neon acquisition means for your AI strategy

Databricks acquired the privately held serverless PostgreSQL startup Neon for approximately billion. Neon, founded in 2022, had previously raised million in a Series B funding round. Over 80% of the databases generated on Neon's platform were initiated by AI agents. PostgreSQL, an established relational database platform, is ranked as the fourth most popular database as of 2025. Serverless PostgreSQL offers operational simplicity, allowing on-demand resource allocation, which is particularly beneficial for AI-centric projects. Major cloud providers, including Google, Microsoft, and AWS, offer serverless PostgreSQL services. Databricks aims to build a developer and AI-agent-friendly database platform with this acquisition. Serverless architectures excel in handling short bursts and smaller workloads, providing rapid scalability, but may present challenges in data management. Neon’s model enhances appeal for developers by distinguishing between storage and compute, facilitating automated scaling. The acquisition indicates a shift in infrastructure requirements for successful AI implementation, highlighting the need for flexible, instantly scalable serverless solutions.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Microsoft cuts 3% of workforce

Microsoft has announced a reduction in its workforce by three percent, equating to approximately 6,840 positions, as part of its strategic efforts to align with market dynamics. As of June 2024, Microsoft employed around 228,000 individuals. A WARN notice has been filed in Washington state, indicating that 1,985 employees will be affected, though it is unclear if this number pertains only to Washington or the entire U.S. In January 2023, Microsoft cut 10,000 jobs (4.5% of its workforce), followed by 1,900 positions in January 2024 within its gaming division, and another 650 employees by September 2024. Further layoffs are expected to be announced in January 2025.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

How to set up a Facebook group on Android

Effective management of a community group involves monitoring posts to ensure alignment with the group's values, promptly approving member requests, engaging with members through comments and insights, using moderation tools like post approvals to maintain a respectful environment, and finding the right balance of control to suit the group's dynamics.

BetaBeacon

May 10, 2025

Try these 5 Apps and Games for Android and iOS, tried and tested!

- Delta Force is a popular multiplayer first-person shooter originally released on PC. - Battles in Delta Force take place in 24 vs. 24 with large teams on large maps. - The game has different modes, including an "Operations" mode and a co-op campaign mode. - Delta Force is free to install but contains microtransactions for cosmetic items. - Run&Grow is an app that tracks running sessions and rewards users with virtual garden decorations. - Remember - A Brain Add-On helps users remember where they stored important items by taking photos. - Command Stick is an Android app that adds a floating widget for quick access to commands. - TMNT: Shredder's Revenge is a mobile game where players beat up enemies with different characters from the Ninja Turtles universe.

AppWizard

May 10, 2025

Locomoto is a train management adventure with Animal Crossing vibes and Minecraft-like crafting that’s already claimed hours of my time

In the game Locomoto, the player takes on the role of a train conductor, having commandeered a train from a goat named McGruff, with the mission of assisting a struggling town by transporting the future mayor. The gameplay includes clearing tracks, operating the train, and engaging in quests that involve transporting passengers and locating items. The game features a character customization system, allowing players to modify their character and train, and incorporates a crafting system for creating various items. Players can collect parcels and complete tasks, leading to an immersive and time-consuming experience. Locomoto is currently available on PC.

AppWizard

May 9, 2025

Minecraft Bedrock 1.21.80 Update Unveils Thrilling, Game-Changing New Features

The Minecraft Bedrock Edition 1.21.80 update introduces enhancements, bug fixes, and new features to improve player experience. Key modifications include reduced latency in populated worlds, improved chunk loading, and increased stability for multiplayer sessions. Bug fixes address issues with pistons, disappearing villagers, and crashes on Android devices. The update features new structures, encourages updating texture packs, and includes a "Drop 2 2025" toggle for testing new mobs like the Dried Ghast and Ghastling in the Nether. Players are advised to back up their worlds before updating.

BetaBeacon

May 5, 2025

Best new mobile games on iOS and Android – May 2025 round-up

- Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE is a game included with Apple Arcade subscription where players roll katamari to make them bigger in a mock livestream format. - The gameplay of Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE remains similar to its original version from 2004, with some minor changes in controls and influencer window dressing.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

Weekend PC Game Deals: Star Wars specials, XCOM bundles, Wargame festivals, and more

This week, the Humble Store launched the Tycoon Titans Bundle featuring titles like Transport Fever, PlateUp!, Frostpunk, and RollerCoaster Tycoon 3: Complete Edition. The bundle also includes Mad Games Tycoon 2, Espresso Tycoon, and Farm Manager 2021 with its Agrotourism DLC. Additionally, the XCOM Bundle includes all 17 modern titles from the XCOM and XCOM 2 series, along with expansions and classic games. The Epic Games Store is offering the game Super Space Club for free until May 8. Forza Motorsport is available for free this weekend on Steam. Sales are ongoing for franchises such as Lord of the Rings, Dark Souls, and Star Wars, while the GOG store has DRM-free specials including discounts on indie games and classic titles. Availability and pricing may vary by region.

AppWizard

May 2, 2025

Stadium’s roadmap for Overwatch 2 is planned out for the next three seasons, with more heroes, maps, and custom games on the horizon

Stadium is a new mode in Overwatch 2, developed with a dedicated roadmap for the next three seasons. Season 17 will introduce two new maps (Esperanca and Samoa), a crossplay feature, new custom games, saveable and shareable builds, and additional example builds. The maps will be tailored for Stadium's fast-paced gameplay, featuring smaller sizes and closer spawn points to objectives. Stadium has gained popularity within the Overwatch 2 community, becoming comparable to Quick Play and Competitive modes.