partnerships Archives

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

Deezer delivers a reimagined music experience on Android TV

Deezer has redesigned its Android TV app to enhance the music experience for users, featuring a modern interface, seamless navigation, vibrant visuals, and improved music discovery. The app now includes features such as Flow, track mixes, 100% artist playlists, HiFi sound quality, and word-by-word lyrics for karaoke. The updated app is available on compatible devices via the Google Play Store, with plans to launch on Fire TV through the Amazon Appstore soon. Users can transition their music library to Deezer using the Tune My Music service, which ensures data protection during the transfer process. Deezer is a global music platform founded in 2007, offering high-quality music access in over 180 countries and is publicly traded on Euronext Paris.

AppWizard

January 14, 2026

Watch: Minecraft-like RPG Hytale expects over 1 million players at launch

Previews provide a glimpse into upcoming games, highlighting innovative gameplay and stunning graphics. Reviews influence consumer perceptions and purchasing decisions through detailed analyses of games. The Nintendo Switch 2 is generating excitement with rumors of enhanced graphics, improved performance, backward compatibility, and an expanded game library. Staying informed about gaming news is essential for consumers and industry professionals, as it reveals trends and developments. Trailers serve as a marketing tool that captivates audiences and sets expectations for upcoming games.

AppWizard

January 14, 2026

Long-Awaited Minecraft-Like MMO Hytale Launches in Early Access and Seemingly Registers Big Player Numbers Right Away

Hytale is now available in early access after its creator reacquired the rights from Riot Games. Players can purchase the game from the official website with three options: Standard (), Supporter (), and Cursebreaker (9). The game has reportedly seen a high rate of new players, although initial claims of 2.8 million users were debunked due to server issues. The development team revitalized a dormant build in eight weeks, addressing core systems and bugs. Exploration Mode features an infinite, procedurally generated world with biomes, structures, and creatures, allowing players to explore, craft, and engage in multiplayer experiences. Creative Mode offers building tools and specialized entity tools. Modding support is available from day one, with partnerships for robust content creation. Hytale supports multiplayer across all modes and plans to introduce Adventure Mode, official Minigames, and social features. There are future plans for console launches and consideration of a mobile version.

AppWizard

January 7, 2026

It’s not weird to want a generative AI disclosure on games

The rising costs of RAM have delayed a PC upgrade for the author, who reflects on the implications of technology in gaming. Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, criticized Steam's generative AI disclosure requirement, comparing it to revealing haircare routines. The author supports Valve's perspective, viewing the disclosure as a safeguard against issues related to generative AI, which has been accused of automating plagiarism and using copyrighted material. The energy demands of AI data centers are also a concern, drawing parallels to collective environmental damage. Transparency in AI usage in gaming is deemed essential, with Activision's vague statement about generative AI in Call of Duty raising questions. The author believes that if AI enhances games, developers should explain their creative processes. As AI-generated content becomes more common, there may be a trend for developers to announce their lack of AI involvement, though the prospect of creativity driven by algorithms is seen as disheartening.

Winsage

January 6, 2026

Windows 11 Is A Broken Mess (And Microsoft Knows)

Microsoft's Xbox division has undergone significant cuts, and Pavan Davuluri, the president of Windows + Devices, has faced criticism on social media. User dissatisfaction with Windows 11 is rising due to stringent hardware requirements like TPM 2.0, design flaws, and unresolved bugs. Many users feel locked out of upgrading to Windows 11, leading to frustration. Reports indicate a 70% increase in Linux installations compared to the previous year, as some users abandon Windows 11. Despite declining user engagement with Copilot since 2024, it is still marketed as the fastest-growing product within Microsoft 365, though this growth may be artificially inflated. Microsoft is prioritizing AI integration, which has not resonated well with users. The company risks a significant decline in valuation if it does not address user feedback and improve Windows 11.

Winsage

January 5, 2026

Microsoft Ends Windows 11 SE Support in 2026 Amid Low Adoption

Microsoft will conclude support for Windows 11 SE in 2026, ceasing security updates and feature enhancements after October 2026. Launched in late 2021 for K-8 classrooms, Windows 11 SE struggled with adoption due to hardware limitations and competition from alternatives like Google’s Chrome OS. The final feature release for SE will be Windows 11 version 24H2. Schools will face challenges in transitioning to new systems, as devices running SE may become vulnerable to cyber threats without ongoing support. Microsoft is shifting its focus to integrating educational tools into its main operating system rather than maintaining a separate edition. The end of support for Windows 11 SE may accelerate hardware refresh cycles in schools, posing financial burdens on underfunded districts.

AppWizard

January 5, 2026

After 200,000 Mobile Downloads, Classy Games Brings Orbital to PC

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in the gaming industry to become a key player in the global market. The government has allocated resources for local game developers and is attracting international companies. Investment funds have been established to support startups and established firms in the gaming sector. Educational programs and partnerships with universities are being developed to train future game developers. The kingdom plans to host major gaming events to showcase local talent and enhance its reputation as a gaming hub. Additionally, there is a focus on integrating gaming into Saudi culture by promoting games that reflect local heritage and values, encouraging developers to explore themes related to Saudi culture, and fostering community involvement in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

January 2, 2026

The most important PC gaming news stories in 2026

In 2026, the gaming industry is experiencing a push for unionization among developers, highlighted by a legal dispute involving Rockstar Games and former developers of GTA 6. The proposed billion-dollar acquisition of Electronic Arts (EA) could reshape North American gaming, potentially leading to significant cuts and debt for EA. A healthier dialogue about the portrayal of sex in gaming is emerging amid a crackdown on adult-themed games. Microsoft faces job cuts and project cancellations while announcing record profits, raising ethical concerns about its partnerships and creative stagnation. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine presents challenges for developers, influencing future game narratives. Additionally, the generative AI boom is disrupting RAM availability and pricing, potentially increasing costs for gaming hardware.

AppWizard

January 1, 2026

Strava used to be my favorite running app, but now I can’t stand it

The author canceled their Strava subscription due to dissatisfaction with the platform's shift towards a premium model that restricts access to personal data and features. Upon canceling, they lost access to their workout history, personal bests, and the Year in Sport recap, which are now only available to paying users. The mapping features, including the Night Heatmap and custom route creation, are also limited for non-subscribers, raising concerns about safety. The author has shifted their focus from performance metrics to social interactions on the platform, finding enjoyment in connecting with friends rather than tracking training goals.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Google’s Android Automotive Adds PIN-Lock for App Privacy

Google has introduced the Sensitive App Protection feature in Android Automotive, allowing users to lock individual applications with a PIN to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information in shared vehicles. This feature aims to enhance privacy amidst the rise of ride-sharing and car-sharing services, addressing concerns about unauthorized app usage by valets and other users. Sensitive App Protection is applicable to family cars and rental vehicles, ensuring that protected apps remain inaccessible without the PIN, even in restricted modes. The feature is designed to improve user privacy in connected cars, coinciding with increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding data handling. User adoption will depend on awareness and ease of use, with early feedback being generally positive. Critics note that while PIN-locking is beneficial, it does not fully address vulnerabilities related to data transmission over unsecured networks. Google plans to transition to the Gemini AI platform, which may enhance security features further. Regulatory bodies are monitoring these developments closely, and ethical considerations regarding access to privacy features for different user demographics are being discussed.