streaming platforms Archives

AppWizard

September 9, 2026

Corporations want to kill physical media, but Big Box PC game packaging just got a second chance

Interest in classic big box PC games from the 1990s has surged, particularly after Sony announced it would stop producing physical PlayStation games. GOG is offering printable big boxes inspired by scans of authentic commercial packages, allowing enthusiasts to showcase collections on shelves. Revenue from CD sales increased by 58% in 2026 compared to the previous year, indicating a resurgence in physical media. GOG's DRM-free model enables users to burn game files onto CDs or DVDs, fostering a sense of ownership in a digital landscape.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Are Free VPNs for Android Actually Worth Using

A free VPN for Android can improve internet privacy, especially on untrusted networks, but it has limitations, such as not guaranteeing complete anonymity or security. The VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the device and the server, protecting traffic from local monitoring but not ensuring overall security if poorly implemented. Changing your IP address does not guarantee anonymity, as account logins and tracking technologies can still identify users. Free VPNs may be suitable for low-risk tasks, like occasional browsing on public Wi-Fi, but they do not protect against malware or phishing. Providers often rely on alternative revenue sources, such as advertising or data sharing, which necessitates careful examination of their privacy policies. Free VPNs may have limitations like data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server options compared to paid services. Users should evaluate the provider’s background, privacy policy, permissions, and performance before installation. A paid VPN generally offers better reliability, support, and transparency, making it a safer choice for sensitive activities.

TrendTechie

August 19, 2026

Осторожно троян: пиратские онлайн-версии «Одиссеи» могут скрывать вирусы

Pirated digital copies of the film "Odyssey" are being used to spread the Lumma Stealer malware, which compromises viewers' computers. Bitdefender's internal data shows that users have attempted to download malicious executable files disguised as the film, which has not yet been released on online platforms. These counterfeit copies are circulating on illegal sites, and the Lumma Stealer malware can steal sensitive information from infected devices. Bitdefender identified several bait file names that are actually executable files designed to infect computers rather than play the film. This tactic follows a trend of using popular films to disseminate malware, with similar campaigns documented in the past. Cybercriminals exploit the gap between a film's theatrical release and its availability on legal streaming platforms. Users are advised to watch films only through verified services and to keep their cybersecurity software updated.

Tech Optimizer

August 17, 2026

Norton’s back-to-school deal ends August 27: $3.33/month for full family protection

Norton 360 Deluxe is a comprehensive subscription service that includes real-time threat protection, a secure VPN, a password manager, dark web monitoring, cloud backup, and parental controls. It supports up to five devices across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, all managed from a single dashboard. The service is available for .99 for the first year during a Back to School promotion from August 17 to August 27, which is a 68% discount from the standard rate. After the first year, the subscription renews at .99 annually. Norton offers a 60-day money-back guarantee for its subscriptions.

AppWizard

August 16, 2026

Someone put Jellyfin in Minecraft, because why not?

A Reddit user named choke527 has created a mod that allows players to stream their self-hosted Jellyfin server within Minecraft, enabling them to watch movies and TV shows together on large virtual screens. The mod includes customizable television options such as a 3 x 2 Compact Television, 6 x 4 Wall Television, 8 x 4 Ultrawide Monitor, and 16 x 7 Curved Cinema Screen, each with varying audio ranges. Players can also craft Pixel Glasses for a full-screen overlay of nearby screens. Future features planned for the mod include subtitles, admin controls, personalized screens, movie scheduling, integration with YouTube and other streaming platforms, and decorative movie and TV posters. The mod is available for download on GitHub, and a Discord server has been created for community support.

AppWizard

August 14, 2026

You don’t need a TV app to stream 10,000 free movies on Google’s Freeplay right now

Google TV Freeplay has launched a catalog of over 10,000 on-demand movies and TV shows at no subscription cost, expanding its live channel lineup to over 300 channels. The library includes titles from studios like A24 and Lionsgate, featuring films such as Lady Bird and Seventeen Again, and is regularly updated. The service is integrated into supported Google TV devices, accessible without additional app installations, but is ad-supported. Currently, it is available only in the U.S. and requires a Google account and high-speed internet. This shift positions Freeplay as a competitor to subscription services like Netflix and free streaming platforms like Tubi and Pluto TV.

AppWizard

July 22, 2026

What ‘long tail’ should you expect for your PC game in 2026?

GameDiscoverCo hosted the 'Scrappy Saves The Animals' game jam in collaboration with the Oakland Ballers on Itch.io, with the top game being Scrappy’s Rescue Run, which will be showcased at an upcoming event. GDCO Pro reported on trending unreleased Steam games, with Dear Passengers leading in wishlists, followed by Paper Shredder and Guildrun. An analysis revealed that AI-flagged games achieve around 3,000 sales, which is 55% of the rate of non-AI titles. The Binding Of Isaac Complete Bundle sold nearly 4 million additional units after a 90% off sale during the Steam Summer Sale. A developer was arrested for injecting malware into Steam games, affecting around 8,000 users and stealing approximately 0,000 in cryptocurrency. Roblox announced a UGC-centric Build feature, raising concerns about predatory offers to creators. Xbox Game Pass added titles like Halo: Campaign Evolved and Beast of Reincarnation. Valve updated SteamVR with a more VR-native interface. Epic Games and Google withdrew a lawsuit settlement attempt that could impact Android app stores. GameDiscoverCo Pro introduced automated graph annotations for Steam demo launches. An analysis of games released between July 2023 and July 2025 showed cumulative sales increases over time, with higher-priced titles having better long-term sales. Multiplayer and co-op games are experiencing promising sales trajectories. The GameDiscover Show has returned, discussing trends in game discovery and insights from GDCo’s AI survey.

AppWizard

June 10, 2026

This hidden Gmail trick gives you virtually unlimited email IDs

In the digital age, users often consider creating new Gmail accounts to take advantage of subscription services and promotional offers. However, a simpler solution is to use Gmail aliases by adding a dot or a + sign to their existing email address. For example, variations like this.is.my.email@gmail.com or thisismyemail+ikea@gmail.com are recognized as the same address by Gmail. This method allows users to subscribe to services without creating new accounts and helps monitor the sharing of personal information. No special settings are required; users just need to modify their email before the @ symbol.

Winsage

June 5, 2026

Windows 11 is Getting These Six Upgrades and Features This Month

Microsoft will begin the rollout of the June 2026 security update for Windows 11 on June 9, which includes new features and security fixes for versions 25H2 and 24H2. Key upgrades include: 1. Low Latency Profile: Enhances responsiveness during brief tasks by temporarily boosting processor frequency, potentially improving app launch times by up to 40% and interaction times by up to 70%. 2. Shared Audio: Allows two users to listen to the same audio stream from one PC using Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology. 3. Task Manager NPU Metrics: Provides insights into AI hardware usage, displaying NPU usage and memory across various Task Manager pages. 4. Multi-App Camera Support: Enables multiple applications to access the same camera stream simultaneously and introduces a Basic Camera mode for troubleshooting. 5. Custom Folder Name During Setup: Users can select a custom name for their user profile folder during the setup process. 6. Windows Hello and Other Changes: Optimizes the Windows Biometric service, enhances Windows Search, and improves storage settings and reliability for USB connections. The update will be rolled out gradually, with availability varying by device.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

3 useful sideloaded Android Auto apps you won’t find in the Play Store

The text discusses the versatility of Android Auto, particularly through the ability to sideload apps that enhance the in-car experience. Key apps mentioned include: - AA Browser: Allows users to surf the web in their car. To install it, users need the Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) and must enable Developer Mode on their Android device and in Android Auto. - CarStream: A sideloaded app that enables access to YouTube content in vehicles that support Android Auto. It requires a strong data connection and should only be used when parked. - Screen2Auto: An app that mirrors a phone's display to the car's infotainment system, allowing access to websites and streaming services without additional logins. It also requires permissions to function. - Fermata Auto: An all-in-one sideloaded app supporting various streaming platforms, which the author plans to explore further.