A new app called Messages by OzarksMade aims to emulate the look and feel of Samsung Messages and include RCS support via integration with Google Messages.
Jack Dorsey has introduced a new feature for his offline messaging app, BitChat, allowing Android users to share and install the app directly from one device to another via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, without needing an internet connection or access to the Google Play Store or GitHub. This feature is designed to enable users to install BitChat by sharing the APK file, making the app accessible even if it faces restrictions on online platforms. The update follows concerns from the Indian government about the app being exploited by criminal organizations. The BitChat team has stated that the app can now be distributed among users, transforming every device with BitChat installed into a potential distribution hub.
Google has released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 8 for Pixel devices, addressing a significant audio issue that caused crackling, distortion, and loud static during media playback and notifications. The update, build CP31.260623.010, focuses on improving system stability and fixing bugs ahead of the official Pixel Feature Drop in September. The audio glitch had generated over 30 reports in Google's issue tracker. The primary fix involves managing buffers within the audio framework. Beta 8 is available for eligible Pixel devices in the Android Beta Program, including the Pixel 6 series to the Pixel 10 lineup. However, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will not receive Android 17 QPR2, and the stable QPR1 release in September will be their last major software update.
Microsoft has reported a significant revenue of billion in its fiscal fourth-quarter report for 2026, exceeding Wall Street predictions, despite a 7% decline in Windows OEM and Devices revenue and a 5% drop in Windows OEM revenue. The company has extended support for Windows 10 until October 2027, acknowledging that many users are not ready to upgrade to Windows 11. Approximately 30% of HP's installed base remains on Windows 10, which HP views as an opportunity for growth. Dell has shifted its focus away from AI PCs to gaming and hardware quality due to the limitations of the AI PC narrative. Microsoft is facing challenges with sluggish Windows 11 adoption rates and is focusing on enhancing the platform's core functionalities.
GameDiscoverCo newsletter has reached 45,000 subscribers. The Video Game History Foundation launched a ‘history of E3’ collection, including an introductory video, vintage footage, and a podcast. Microsoft reported a decline in Xbox revenue for four consecutive quarters, with Content & Services revenue at approximately .75 billion (down 10% year-over-year) and hardware revenue around million (down 13% year-over-year). Asha Sharma noted over 200 million new players joined Xbox in FY2026, but the business did not grow. PlayStation's PS5 sales reached 95.3 million, with a 1.6 million increase for the quarter but a 36% year-over-year decline. Active PSN users rose to 125 million, and profit surged by 37%. Meta's Reality Labs reported a loss of .6 billion in Q2, despite million in revenue. Slotbound, a roguelike auto-battler game, achieved 50,000 wishlists and 2,900 peak demo concurrent users. Over 1,000 PC games now operate direct channels, saving developers an estimated billion in platform fees in 2025. GameDiscoverCo’s Steam Fan Snapshot data revealed that the average age of players is 31 for Clair Obscur and 25 for R.E.P.O. 37.5% of respondents find games through short-form video, while 27.9% use traditional media websites. Players of ARC Raiders show a strong preference for the Steam Deck, and as playtime increases, console playtime declines.
Sony announced its plan to transition to a fully digital gaming platform by 2028, ceasing production of game discs. This decision has raised concerns among gamers regarding ownership and accessibility, particularly the ability to trade in games and access libraries during service outages. CFO Lin Tao stated that Sony is committed to this digital shift, emphasizing the strength of curated content and the stability of the gaming environment. Tao also noted that physical discs are not a significant differentiator for their products and expressed a vision of coexistence with PC games. Additionally, estimates suggest that the material costs for the upcoming PlayStation 6 could exceed 0, raising questions about pricing and competition in the market amid ongoing supply chain challenges.
Sony has confirmed its commitment to a disc-less gaming model for upcoming PlayStation consoles. CFO Lin Tao stated that the absence of discs will not significantly influence gamers' decisions to switch to PC gaming, highlighting the strengths of curated content, a stable game environment, and affordability compared to high-end gaming PCs. Sony is proceeding cautiously with phasing out physical game discs, noting that any backlash has not negatively impacted their business. Anticipation for the PS6 includes advancements in cloud streaming technology and a new horror game, along with a patent for innovative modular controller technology featuring a touchscreen interface.
YouTube has implemented a passive sign-in feature that allows users to navigate the site without needing immediate credentials, streamlining the login process and enhancing user experience. This approach prioritizes ease of access while maintaining security, encouraging higher engagement rates and reducing barriers for new users.
Asha Sharma has a vision for Xbox that includes a significant investment in Minecraft, aiming to transform it into the “world’s creator platform” and a competitor to Roblox. She views Minecraft as more than just a game, seeing it as a unique platform for creativity and community. Unlike other titles, Minecraft offers a premium experience that encourages deep engagement without typical monetization pressures. Sharma's plans suggest that Minecraft could become a cornerstone of Xbox's strategy, potentially redefining the gaming platform landscape.
Major mobile carriers in Russia, including MTS, MegaFon, Beeline, and T2, have agreed to zero-rate data usage for the domestic Max messenger, effective August 1. This initiative aims to promote the state-approved platform and discourage the use of foreign messaging apps. Subscribers will have free access to voice calls, messaging, file transfers, and other services within the Max app. Since its launch in spring 2025, Max has been integrated into state digital services and mandated to be pre-installed on all smartphones sold in Russia, resulting in nearly 70 million daily active users. This announcement follows EU sanctions against VK, the app's developer, due to allegations of its connections with the Russian FSB and surveillance capabilities, leading to the removal of VK and Max from Apple and Google app stores.
