subscription Archives

BetaBeacon

May 5, 2025

Best new mobile games on iOS and Android – May 2025 round-up

- Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE is a game included with Apple Arcade subscription where players roll katamari to make them bigger in a mock livestream format. - The gameplay of Katamari Damacy Rolling LIVE remains similar to its original version from 2004, with some minor changes in controls and influencer window dressing.

Tech Optimizer

May 4, 2025

5 reasons why I stopped using an antivirus on Windows 11

A growing number of users are reevaluating their reliance on traditional antivirus software, reflecting a deeper understanding of personal security needs. Many individuals are adopting strong cyber hygiene practices, taking personal responsibility for safe browsing and cautious online behavior. Modern browsers like Opera and Brave offer built-in security features and VPNs, emphasizing self-discipline in cybersecurity. Microsoft Defender Antivirus, integrated into Windows 11, provides real-time protection and frequent updates, making it a reliable choice for users who practice basic cyber hygiene. High-end antivirus packages often come with subscription fees, while open-source solutions can be cost-effective alternatives. Users have reported improved system performance after moving away from third-party antivirus programs, experiencing faster boot times and increased responsiveness. Essential security features are now recognized as not exclusive to antivirus software, with regular data backups, encryption, and password management enhancing overall protection. While some users find sufficient protection without traditional antivirus software, others with different threat models may still require it.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

Google One AI could have more tiers on the way, like a ‘Gemini Ultra’ plan

Google is reportedly planning to introduce new AI subscription tiers under the Google One umbrella, specifically "Gemini Pro" and "Gemini Ultra," alongside the existing Gemini Advanced option. The Gemini Advanced plan has recently been upgraded to include NotebookLM Plus and Veo 2 for video generation, but there will be a monthly limit on video production for subscribers. Google One's AI Premium plan has also been enhanced, offering existing users access to NotebookLM Plus and advanced Gemini capabilities in Gmail and Docs, along with 2TB of cloud storage. Upcoming updates are expected to be revealed at the I/O 2025 event, with a focus on improving user productivity and introducing new interactions.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

Facebook parent Meta launches AI assistant app, further competing with OpenAI and Google

Meta Platforms launched a dedicated app for its Meta AI assistant, enhancing user experience by providing personalized responses based on user data from Facebook and Instagram. The app is powered by Llama 4, Meta's latest large language model, designed to compete with AI systems from OpenAI and Google. It will integrate with Meta’s AI glasses and the existing companion app. Meta is also hosting its first AI developer event, LlamaCon, on the same day as the app launch and plans to test a paid subscription model for advanced versions of its AI chatbot in the second quarter. Meta AI, launched in September 2023, serves as a virtual assistant capable of reasoning tasks.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

Weekend PC Download Deals for May 2: Golden Week, Star Wars, and LudoNarraCon

This weekend, there are numerous PC deals available due to the Golden Week festivities and the Steam Wargames Fest. Various storefronts, including Steam, the Epic Games Store, and GOG.com, are celebrating Star Wars Day with special offers. The annual LudoNarraCon is taking place, featuring discounts on games like Wanderstop, Afterlove EP, and The Crush House. Fanatical is offering a customizable Bethesda Bundle with games like The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind GOTY Edition and Fallout 4, with pricing options for purchasing multiple titles. Green Man Gaming has a 15% discount on PC games using the coupon code MAY15. Humble Choice subscription is available for .99 per month, offering titles such as Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered and Dredge. Ubisoft is providing discounts with the coupon code LEGEND.

AppWizard

May 2, 2025

How to use Gemini Live’s camera and screen sharing features

Gemini Live has transitioned from a voice-based AI assistant to a multimodal platform that can process camera feeds and screen-sharing inputs, enhancing user interactions with visual context. It requires an Android device with at least 2 GB of RAM and Android 10 or later, along with a Google One AI Premium subscription for access to camera and screen-sharing features. These features are complimentary for Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S25 users, and newer Pixel devices may offer a trial for Gemini Advanced. To share a live video feed, users must launch Gemini, tap the Live icon, select the Camera button, and ensure the desired items are visible. For screen sharing, users open the relevant app or screen, activate Gemini, and select Share screen with Live. Gemini can summarize content and answer questions based on the shared screen. The multimodal capabilities are particularly beneficial for scenarios requiring detailed descriptions, positioning Gemini Live competitively alongside other AI platforms.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

20% off Windows 365 expires as Windows 10 support ends

Microsoft has reduced the price of Windows 365 and is encouraging Windows 10 users to consider this option as support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allows users to receive security patches for a fee, starting at £35.60 per device per month in the UK, with costs doubling in subsequent years. Windows 365 provides access to a Windows 11 Cloud PC and offers a 20 percent discount for first-time users. Windows 365 currently costs £35.60 per user per month in the UK, €41.40 in the EU, and a similar amount in the US. Recent data shows Windows 10 holds 52.94 percent of the market share, while Windows 11 is at 43.72 percent. The offer for Windows 365 concludes on October 31, 2025.

Tech Optimizer

May 2, 2025

McAfee+ Premium antivirus review

McAfee+ Premium offers comprehensive antivirus protection without device restrictions under a single account. It includes features such as an unrestricted VPN, True Key password manager, file shredder, and cleanup tools. The pricing is higher compared to some competitors, with an Essential subscription available for .99 annually, covering five devices. The Advanced package costs .99 and includes fraud protection and a credit bureau scan, while the Ultimate package is .99 and offers three credit bureau scans. Ransomware protection is included only in the Advanced and Ultimate packages. Performance tests show a malware detection accuracy of 99.96%, although it has a higher number of false positives compared to Bitdefender. The interface is user-friendly, and customer support is available 24/7 via chat, but email support is not offered.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

Google Voice adds three-way calling support alongside its interface rework

Google has introduced a new update for its Voice app that enables three-way calling for Workspace subscription holders, allowing users to create conference calls by adding another participant. The update includes a refreshed user interface with more accessible key tools for managing calls, such as prominently displayed "Add" and "Merge" options. This feature is available to Google Workspace customers on Voice Starter, Voice Standard, and Voice Premier plans, as well as SIP Link Standard and SIP Link Premier customers. The rollout began on May 1 and is expected to reach all Google Voice users within approximately 15 days. Earlier in February, Google Voice added a "call delegation" feature, allowing users to transfer calls to another person with options for immediate transfer or confirmation before proceeding, including the ability to transfer calls from personal accounts to paid enterprise accounts.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

Secure your organization against changing conditions with a special offer from Windows 365

82% of business leaders view 2023 as critical for reevaluating strategic and operational frameworks. Windows 10 support will end in October 2025, prompting organizations to consider strategies for transitioning to Windows 11 or Windows 365. Microsoft is offering a 20% discount on all Windows 365 plans for new customers from May 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025. Windows 365 provides a secure Windows 11 experience via a Cloud PC and is designed with Zero Trust principles for enhanced security. Transitioning to Windows 365 can lower carbon footprints and align with sustainability goals. Crocs reported annual cost savings of 0,000 after switching to Windows 365. Dnata Travel Group chose Windows 365 for secure access for their mobile workforce. Hamburg Commercial Bank plans to expand its use of Windows 365 for sustainability improvements. The promotional offer is available for new customers and has specific terms and conditions, including a deadline for processing transactions.