purchase model Archives

AppWizard

July 10, 2025

It’s here! Precise Volume app gets Android 16-style volume UI

The Precise Volume app for Android has introduced a redesigned volume interface that aligns with the upcoming Android 16. Users can activate this new interface by enabling the Volume Button Override feature, which is available only in the Pro version of the app priced at .49. The app offers up to 1,000 distinct volume steps, compared to the native interface's 15 to 20 steps, allowing for more precise audio adjustments. Additional features of the Pro version include reverb control, unlimited volume presets, and Bluetooth automation, with a one-time purchase model that avoids recurring subscription fees. The app is available for download on Google Play.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

When Microsoft made the Windows as a Service pivot

Former Microsoft engineer Dave Plummer discussed the company's shift from paid upgrades to a Windows as a Service model, highlighting the challenges faced after the success of Windows 7 and the disappointing reception of Windows 8. He noted that Microsoft made Windows 10 available as a free upgrade for users of Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, which allowed the company to gather valuable telemetry data while introducing users to subscription services. However, the telemetry raised privacy concerns among users, as it included advertising and upsell mechanisms. Plummer expressed a desire for a version of Windows Pro without telemetry and advertising, indicating he would pay for such a product. He also mentioned that the transition to a service model helped address piracy by offering free upgrades to users with non-genuine copies of Windows.

Winsage

April 10, 2025

Pay Just $30 Once and Get Microsoft Office Office for Life

Around 60% of small and midsize businesses (SMBs) are seeking affordable technology solutions, according to McKinsey. Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 for Windows is currently available for .97, reduced from its regular price of 9. This lifetime license includes essential applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, with no ongoing subscription fees. Office 2019 is compatible with Windows 10 and 11 and offers improved inking tools, advanced data analysis features in Excel, and new presentation capabilities in PowerPoint. The one-time purchase model eliminates monthly fees and hidden costs, providing long-term stability for users.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Minecraft Won’t Be Going Free-To-Play, Mojang Says

Minecraft will not transition to a free-to-play model, according to Ingela Garneij, the executive producer. She stated that Microsoft and Mojang believe this approach does not align with the game's design and monetization strategy, which is based on a one-time purchase. Since its launch in May 2009, Minecraft has sold over 300 million copies worldwide and is considered one of the best-selling video games of all time. Microsoft acquired Mojang in 2014 for .5 billion.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Minecraft will not go free-to-play: Mojang defends one-time purchase and core game values

Mojang has confirmed that Minecraft will remain a one-time purchase and will not adopt a free-to-play model. Ingela Garneij, the executive producer, emphasized that changing the business model would deviate from the game's foundational vision and highlighted the importance of accessibility. The company aims to preserve the integrity of the Minecraft experience, contrasting its approach with the monetization strategies of other studios. Agnes Larsson, Game Director of Minecraft Vanilla, supported this view, stating that maintaining these values is crucial to the game's culture and community connection.