NewApp Digest
search bot

pricing structure

Xbox Game Pass is too expensive, new Xbox boss reportedly says: 'we need a better value equation'
AppWizard
April 14, 2026

Xbox Game Pass is too expensive, new Xbox boss reportedly says: ‘we need a better value equation’

Asha Sharma, the new head of Xbox, expressed concerns in an internal memo that the pricing structure of the Game Pass subscription service is "too expensive" for players. She emphasized the need to reassess the subscription model to deliver better value and indicated plans to evolve Game Pass into a more flexible system, which will require time for testing. The discussion follows mixed financial outcomes, with former Bethesda VP Pete Hines noting that Game Pass has negatively impacted retail revenue. Additionally, Xbox is realigning its focus on console hardware integrity and may discontinue the 'This is an Xbox' marketing campaign as part of a broader strategic pivot, including a renewed market push with Project Helix.
YouTube Premium just got a price hike, and it's not a small one
AppWizard
April 10, 2026

YouTube Premium just got a price hike, and it’s not a small one

YouTube Premium prices in the US are increasing next month for individual, family, and student plans. The individual plan will rise to .99/month, and the family plan will increase to .99/month. This follows a previous price adjustment in July 2023 when the individual plan rose from .99 to .99 per month. Users have started receiving official emails about the changes, which highlight benefits like ad-free viewing and offline downloads. The increase comes as YouTube has increased ads for free users and is cracking down on ad blockers. Some users have expressed frustration over the rising costs without perceived improvements in value.
If you loved Balatro, don't miss your chance to get this indie deck builder at under $3
AppWizard
April 10, 2026

If you loved Balatro, don’t miss your chance to get this indie deck builder at under $3

Fanatical's latest Platinum Collection features discounted Steam games, including "This Ain't Even Poker, Ya Joker," which combines cards and strategy with chaotic gameplay. Players battle a Jester, unlocking upgrades and creating unique synergies. The game allows players to bend rules, such as adding or eliminating cards. The collection offers a "build your own" bundle format, where players can select a minimum of three games, potentially acquiring "This Ain't Even Poker, Ya Joker" for under £3. Other titles in the collection include "Gloomy Eyes," "The Evil Within," "Outbreak Island," and "Metal Garden." The offer is available until Thursday, April 30th, and is subject to key availability.
Apple's chips are the core of a new landscape, but its biggest win is Windows
Winsage
April 7, 2026

Apple’s chips are the core of a new landscape, but its biggest win is Windows

Apple introduced its M1 Apple Silicon systems in late 2020, which received admiration but raised concerns due to a restrictive ecosystem. Over five years, Apple’s architecture has evolved, addressing challenges like gigabit Wi-Fi and high-speed expansion, yet it remains focused on desktops and laptops. The anticipated MacBook Neo, lacking an M-type System on Chip, has created apprehension within the Windows ecosystem. Currently, no Windows laptop can match the MacBook Neo in hardware quality and startup experience, while macOS offers a more tranquil workspace compared to the distractions of Windows 11. Apple has effectively utilized advancements in processor technology and manufacturing control to produce efficient chips and maintain a coherent ecosystem, making its products increasingly accessible. In contrast, Windows OEMs face challenges with component sourcing, build quality, and reliance on bloatware. There is potential for Microsoft to create a Windows Neo variant that meets user needs, while the sustainability of current business models for Windows OEMs is uncertain.
PC Gamers Have 24 Hours Left To Claim Free 9/10 Game
AppWizard
April 5, 2026

PC Gamers Have 24 Hours Left To Claim Free 9/10 Game

PC gamers have 24 hours left to claim a free copy of House Flipper on Steam, which has a 9/10 rating and a 94% positive rating from players. The giveaway ends at 6 PM BST on April 6th. This promotion is linked to the upcoming release of the House Flipper Remastered Collection, which will include features from House Flipper 2, enhanced graphics, and a new DLC titled Hearty Addition with over 800 new items and six new jobs. The remastered collection will cost .99, with discounts for players who own the original game and its DLCs. The release window for the remastered collection is now set for Q2 2026.
Goodbye, Duolingo; I've found a much better language-learning app
AppWizard
April 3, 2026

Goodbye, Duolingo; I’ve found a much better language-learning app

Rita El Khoury shares her positive experience with the language-learning app Babbel, which she prefers over Duolingo and Memrise due to its focus on practical communication and real-life conversations. Babbel's curriculum emphasizes essential phrases and useful vocabulary, enhancing retention through a flashcard system that includes visual aids, text, and pronunciation. The app offers a variety of practice methods, including grammar guides and audio recaps, allowing users to tailor their learning experience. Babbel also features an AI-powered Speak function for conversation practice, helping users overcome speaking hesitations. While El Khoury notes some limitations, such as the need to switch the app's primary language for different language pairs, she is considering a long-term subscription due to Babbel's alignment with her learning style and its flexible pricing structure.
Google introduces a new video generation model as OpenAI shutters Sora app
AppWizard
April 1, 2026

Google introduces a new video generation model as OpenAI shutters Sora app

Google has launched Veo 3.1 Lite, an AI video generation model for professional developers, priced at five cents per second for 720p video and eight cents per second for 1080p video. It is only available to paying users of Google AI Studio and does not support 4K video. Clip lengths are limited to four, six, or eight seconds, and formats include landscape (16:9) and portrait (9:16). Additionally, Google has reduced prices for the existing Veo 3.1 Fast model, effective April 7, with new rates of 10 cents per second for 720p (down from 15 cents), 15 cents per second for 1080p (down from 18 cents), and 35 cents per second for 4K (down by five cents). Comprehensive developer documentation is available for the new model.
Peak's new update gives you the keys to the climb with a suite of custom settings, including the option to turn on 'Grapple Mode (Stupid)'
AppWizard
March 30, 2026

Peak’s new update gives you the keys to the climb with a suite of custom settings, including the option to turn on ‘Grapple Mode (Stupid)’

The latest update for Peak, called the "Play It Your Way Update," introduces customizable settings that allow players to disable weather elements like snowstorms and high winds. Players can toggle dangers such as fall damage, spiders, and hunger on and off. There is also an option to remove specific items, like the blowgun, from the game. Additionally, popular mods have expanded the player limit from four to twenty, enabling new gameplay modes, including a zombies mode and a competitive free-for-all mode. The game's pricing remains appealing, described as a bargain by co-creator Nick Kaman.
I ditched Google Drive and Photos for this privacy-focused app, and I couldn't be happier
AppWizard
March 28, 2026

I ditched Google Drive and Photos for this privacy-focused app, and I couldn’t be happier

Rita El Khoury is transitioning from Google Drive to Proton Drive due to privacy concerns. A poll indicated that 62% of respondents would consider moving away from Google Drive for security reasons. El Khoury values Proton Drive's end-to-end encryption, which ensures only users can access their files, unlike Google Drive, which lacks this feature. She appreciates Proton Drive's unified interface and minimalist design in Proton Docs, but notes its limitations, such as fewer convenience features and only 5GB of free storage compared to Google Drive's 15GB. The choice between the two services depends on individual priorities regarding privacy and features.
Search