offers Archives

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

Streator Public Library offers Minecraft, arts, and games

The Streator Public Library is offering a variety of summer programs, including: - Minecraft Ore Scavenger Hunt until July 25 - Lego Club for children aged 5 and up throughout the week - Minecraft movie screening on July 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. - “Are You Smarter Than a Librarian?” robotics challenge on July 20 at 4:30 p.m. - Murder Mystery Meetup for teens on July 22 at 6 p.m. - Afternoon Watercolor on July 21 and Evening Acrylic on July 23 for ages 10 and up - Minecraft IRL craft and building sessions on July 24 and 25 - Dig In Reading Club on July 21 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with free pizza and games - Book Buddy Storytime and Game Time on July 22 - Mother Goose Club for toddlers on July 23 - Indoor Volleyball on July 25 Additionally, the library will host the Artist to Be Expo from August 3 to August 8, with an opening reception on August 3 from 3 to 7 p.m.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

Steam drops four free games, including a ‘peak’ RPG you can claim right now

The text highlights four free games available on Steam: 1. The Song of WILL: Act I - An RPG by Dylan Webber, inspired by 90s JRPGs, featuring randomized weapons and a "Positive" rating based on 11 reviews. 2. All Tomorrows: Invasion - A casual first-person shooter by Bluestone, with solid shooting mechanics and a "Positive" rating from 11 reviews. 3. Oblivion Maiden - Developed by Project Ex Libris, this game has a "Positive" rating from 29 reviews and combines elements of The Legend of Zelda and classic Final Fantasy. 4. BomBee - A puzzle game described as an online arcade PvP game, currently lacking a rating.

Winsage

July 14, 2026

Thinking About Installing Windows on Your Steam Machine? Read This First

Valve has released Windows drivers for the Steam Machine, allowing users to replace SteamOS with Windows for greater software flexibility. This transition requires a complete OS overhaul and may result in performance issues due to reliance on generic AMD graphics drivers, as Valve does not provide official support for Windows on the Steam Machine. Users have encountered a hardware issue known as the “Red Bar of Death,” which can often be resolved through power resets and ensuring proper ventilation. The upcoming Steam Frame VR headset is designed to operate independently of a PC, featuring standalone capabilities and enhanced SteamOS integration, but its success will depend on competitive pricing and developer support. The Steam Machine faces challenges such as high pricing, aging hardware, and limited official support, impacting its competitiveness in the gaming market.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

You can currently buy three of my all-time favorite microstrategy games for $10

Steam's Games Made in Sweden sale features notable titles such as Vermintide, Darktide, Payday, Valheim, Amnesia, and Satisfactory, with many available at discounts. Vermintide 2 is priced at £2.34. Three microstrategy games highlighted in the sale are Bad North, Kingdom Two Crowns, and The Battle of Polytopia, all available for under £10. Bad North involves defending islands from Viking invasions, Kingdom Two Crowns combines town-building with exploration and co-op gameplay, and The Battle of Polytopia offers quick 4x gameplay with 16 civilizations and various modes. Some notable titles, like Arc Raiders, are not included in the sale.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

More than 17,000 games on Steam now come with an AI disclosure, 30% use AI for two or more reasons

Over 17,250 games on Steam feature AI-generated content, with 69% of this AI usage dedicated to enhancing in-game content such as artwork, writing, audio, and localization. During a recent Steam event, nearly 20% of showcased games carried an AI warning. Some well-known titles like PUBG and Call of Duty also disclose their use of AI. While some developers express hesitance towards AI integration, data suggests that many gamers are open to the benefits of AI in their gaming experience. The primary use of AI is for in-game assets, followed by marketing materials at 17%, while only 5% of developers use AI solely for development purposes.

Tech Optimizer

July 13, 2026

Best antivirus software for 2026, tested and reviewed by an expert

The digital landscape is increasingly threatened by scams and cyberattacks, necessitating robust antivirus solutions for various devices. Modern antivirus software has evolved into comprehensive security suites that include features like VPNs, email protection, and dark web monitoring. Users must balance feature richness with system performance, as costs can vary significantly after initial promotional rates. The best antivirus software includes: - Bitdefender Premium: Rated 4.5/5, priced from £49.99 per year, known for strong performance and a comprehensive feature set but limited to a single device for the free version. - Surfshark One: Rated 4/5, priced from £1.99 per month, recognized for its user-friendly interface but lacking some central features. - Norton 360 Deluxe: Rated 4/5, priced from £29.99 per year, praised for excellent performance and light system impact, though its interface is less polished. - Avira Free Security: Rated 3/5, free option available, offers basic protection but prompts users to upgrade frequently. - Avast One: Rated 4/5, free option available, features a modular design but includes persistent upgrade prompts. Each antivirus package provides solid protection against cyber threats, with many offering free trials for evaluation.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Best Android Monitoring Apps for Parents in 2026

Parents face challenges in monitoring their children's online behavior due to the limitations of built-in parental controls on Android devices. Key features to look for in an Android monitoring app include message monitoring across social platforms, real-time GPS tracking, access to call logs, browsing history, app activity tracking, and keyword alert capabilities. Haqerra is highlighted as the best Android monitoring app, offering extensive coverage of messaging platforms without the need for rooting the device. It includes features such as call log tracking, continuous GPS tracking, and an innovative keyword alert system. The app can be set up in about five minutes and allows for discreet management through a web dashboard. Other notable monitoring apps include mSpy, which has a strong reputation but may require rooting for full social media monitoring; Eyezy, which focuses on social media but lacks comprehensive features; Spynger, which offers good GPS and messaging coverage but limited social app support; and Parentaler, designed for younger children with an emphasis on content filtering and screen time limits.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Monday Android app deals and freebies: Turnip Boy Robs a Bank, Beholder Conductor, Serial Cleaner, more

An array of Android game and app deals includes titles like Turnip Boy Robs a Bank, Beholder: Conductor, Serial Cleaner, Parabellum: Siege of Legends, Foretales, Looking for Aliens, and Townopolis. Discounts on Google tech products include 0 off the base model Pixel 10, 0 off select Pixel 10 Pro models, 0 off the Pixel 10 Pro XL, 0 off the Google Pixel Watch 4, price reductions on Google Pixel 10/Pro Pixelsnap cases, and discounts on Nothing’s 2026 Headphone. There are also significant price drops on various Android apps, enhancing accessibility for users.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Minecraft’s New Cushion Is Reinventing Pretty Much Everything

Mojang has introduced cushions to Minecraft, allowing players to sit for the first time. Cushions are classified as entities, enabling placement at various heights and inspiring innovative architectural designs. They also introduce new travel mechanics, allowing players to teleport across distances and enhance ice boat roads without slowing down. The feature has sparked creativity within the community, leading to inventive designs and practical engineering solutions. The functionality of cushions is currently part of an experimental snapshot, with potential adjustments based on player feedback.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Survey suggests readers treat their core Android apps like a comfy couch

A poll conducted with over 1,700 participants revealed that 50.1% of users only switch apps when absolutely necessary, while 40.6% prefer to maintain their current applications for stability. Only 9.4% of respondents embrace change for novelty. The discussion highlighted the significance of app loyalty as users integrate certain applications into their daily routines.