rebranding Archives

Winsage

July 31, 2025

One of the best ways to dodge Windows 11’s system requirements gets a new look, a new purpose, and a funny new name

Microsoft prefers users to invest in new PCs for upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, as many existing machines do not meet the new system requirements. Unofficial methods to install Windows 11 on older hardware have emerged, with tools like Rufus and Flyby11 (now rebranded as Flyoobe) facilitating this process. Flyoobe focuses on enhancing the out-of-box experience (OOBE) for users, offering expanded personalization options, improved visual customization, and refined navigation controls. The latest update includes features such as clearer feedback on Windows Update and fixes for display scaling issues. Rufus remains popular for quick installations, while Flyoobe targets users seeking a more customizable setup experience.

AppWizard

July 23, 2025

NoCode rebrands as Screen Burn

Scottish developer NoCode has rebranded as Screen Burn to better reflect its evolution and current identity. Founded in 2015, the studio initially focused on creating games without coding expertise, with notable titles like Stories Untold and Observation. They have recently partnered with Konami for Silent Hill: Townfall. The team noted that their original name no longer represents their mission, as they now have many coders on staff. They expressed a desire to clarify their identity and emphasized their commitment to creating games that leave a lasting impact on players.

AppWizard

July 15, 2025

Ancient Aliens vs Predator game briefly resurrected by Steam player thirst for Six Packs

A dormant space hulk on a forgotten planetoid contains remnants of a past era, including desiccated hand monsters and abandoned Pulse Rifles. The vessel is identified as the 2010 sequel to Alien Vs Predator, which has seen a resurgence in player engagement, reaching around five thousand concurrent players due to a community-run server. This revival is partly driven by the pursuit of a rare achievement called The Six Pack, which requires players to participate in a ranked match with six friends. The original multiplayer scene struggled, with only 2.2% of players achieving this milestone. The resurgence highlights the positive impact of proactive measures by publishers to sustain online games post-official support. The 1999 installment of Alien Vs Predator is noted for its atmospheric lighting and iconic film set adaptations, while the 2010 version has received mixed reviews, with some players expressing renewed interest due to community initiatives. The game has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews on Steam, with humorous commentary suggesting a more accurate title reflecting the player demographics.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Android Auto begins erasing Assistant as Gemini prepares for takeover (APK teardown)

Google is transitioning from Google Assistant to a new digital companion called Gemini, particularly in the latest version of Android Auto, where "Google Assistant" is being replaced with "Digital Assistant." The update, Android Auto v14.8.152744, shows changes in terminology, such as "Manage your digital assistant" and a streamlined description for voice commands. This shift indicates a broader strategy to phase out the Assistant branding, with the potential for settings to eventually direct users to a Gemini configuration page instead of the current Google Assistant settings. Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Gemini as it may become the primary digital assistant in vehicles.

AppWizard

July 7, 2025

Chinese FMV game about getting ‘revenge on gold diggers’ plunges the country into online gender tumult

A new Chinese FMV game titled "Revenge on Gold Diggers" has sparked nationwide debate over gender dynamics and misogyny. Players assume the role of Wu Yulun, a man seeking revenge against women who manipulate men into losing their fortunes. The game has faced criticism for reinforcing harmful stereotypes about women, with detractors labeling it as misogynistic rather than anti-fraud. Following the backlash, the creator, Mark Wu, was banned from Bilibili, and the game's name was changed to "Emotional Fraud Simulator" shortly after its release. The game's narrative parallels real-life events, including the case of streamer Pangmao, whose death was linked to financial exploitation by his girlfriend, further fueling online vitriol against women. Critics argue that the game distorts reality and promotes a regressive agenda rather than fostering meaningful discussions about relationships and financial exploitation.

AppWizard

July 7, 2025

I’m fed up with ads on my Google TV, so I got rid of them with this third-party launcher

The transition from Android TV to Google TV has led to mixed reactions from users, primarily due to the increase in sponsored content and ads, which can be frustrating for those who have invested in hardware. Unlike Apple TV 4K, which is ad-free, Google TV users can utilize a third-party launcher, such as Projectivy Launcher, to eliminate ads and enhance their viewing experience. Projectivy Launcher is customizable, allowing users to reorder apps, hide unused ones, and create personalized categories. It offers features like adjustable icon sizes, dynamic wallpapers, and the ability to sideload APKs. It also includes parental controls and is free to use, with some premium features available for a one-time payment. Google TV provides an "App-only" mode to reduce clutter, but Projectivy is considered a better option for a streamlined experience.

AppWizard

June 14, 2025

This Android app can make your virtual life a little bit easier, if you have patience

Android Central's Editor's Desk discusses the integration of virtual reality (VR) with everyday devices, highlighting advancements in VR headsets like the Quest 3, which features color passthrough. This allows users to remain aware of their surroundings while using VR. However, accessing smartphone notifications can be challenging in VR. To address this, Meta launched the Smart Connect app for the Quest 3, enabling users to stream and control their Motorola smartphones directly from the headset. Setting up Smart Connect involves downloading the app and syncing devices via a QR code. The app allows for app streaming, creating a phone-like interface in VR, and supports multiple apps. It also includes a desktop mode for a computer-like experience. However, users may face issues with app scaling, keyboard functionality, and navigation due to small interface elements. Overall, Smart Connect aims to enhance connectivity between smartphones and VR technology.

AppWizard

June 9, 2025

Cool Pixel Watch features keep trickling in from the Wear OS 6 dev code

Recent insights from the Wear OS 6 developer preview and an APK teardown have revealed new features for the upcoming Pixel Watch 4, including an Adaptive Charging tool that stops charging at a predetermined percentage (likely around 80%) and a rebranded Water Lock mode. The Pixel Watch 4 may also automatically lock your phone if it is left behind. The official rollout of Wear OS 6 is expected to begin in late summer. Additionally, the update will introduce a new Material 3 Expressive UI, dynamic color theming, and a third-party watch face storefront. The Pixel Watch 4 may be thicker than its predecessor to accommodate a larger battery, enhancing the battery life with the new adaptive charging feature.

AppWizard

June 8, 2025

Xbox console games are suddenly showing up inside the Xbox PC app

Microsoft is integrating its Xbox and Windows platforms by including Xbox console games in the Xbox app on Windows, suggesting a strategy for a unified library of Xbox and PC games. The company is also working on enabling visibility for games from Steam and the Epic Games Store within the Xbox PC app. Microsoft has rebranded its Xbox PC app to "Xbox PC" and aims to establish it as a central hub for PC gaming. Additionally, Microsoft is merging Xbox and Windows strengths for handheld devices, with changes expected later this year. There is speculation about whether Xbox console games will become playable on PC, potentially utilizing cloud infrastructure or emulation technology.

AppWizard

June 8, 2025

Find My Device is out—Google’s new Find Hub is officially in

Google has rebranded its Find My Device tool to Find Hub, which is now located in Android Settings under Security & privacy > Device finders. This change is part of the rollout with Google Play services version 25.20.37, replacing all mentions of "Find My Device." The updated Find Hub allows users to locate both devices and people, featuring distinct tabs for each. Google is enhancing Find Hub's functionality with Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for precise location tracking and plans to introduce satellite connectivity for use in remote areas without cell service.