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BetaBeacon

March 5, 2026

Google changes Play Store policies after settling Epic Games dispute

- Developers on Google Play can now use their own billing systems alongside Google Play's payment system - The service fee for in-app purchases tied to new installs will be 20%, but developers in certain programs will pay 15% - Developers using Google Play's billing system will pay a separate 5% billing fee in certain regions - Google is launching a Registered App Stores program to simplify the installation of third-party Android stores

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Windows 12 could arrive this year with rumored heavy AI focus — and the hate is strong already

Windows 12 is speculated to launch as early as late 2026, coinciding with the expiration of extended support for Windows 10. Rumors suggest it may feature a modular structure, allowing user customization, and will integrate artificial intelligence as a core component. Community reactions have been largely critical, particularly regarding the potential for a subscription model for AI features. There are doubts about whether Microsoft can effectively launch a new version while addressing issues in Windows 11. Additionally, the next iteration may not be called Windows 12, with possibilities of names like Windows AI or Windows Copilot to reflect its AI focus.

AppWizard

March 5, 2026

Google Expands Payment Choices and Alternative App Stores on Android

Android is introducing updates to enhance app and game distribution, focusing on three areas: expanded payment options, easier installation of alternative app stores, and reduced fees for developers. Developers can now implement their own payment systems alongside Google Play’s billing framework and direct users to their websites for purchases. A Registered App Stores program will streamline the installation of approved alternative app stores. The fee structure is revised to include a 5% billing fee for using Google Play’s payment system, a 20% service fee for in-app purchases on new installs, a 20% service fee for developers in new incentive programs (reduced to 15% on new installs), and a 10% fee for subscription payments. The updates are expected to reach the US, UK, and European Economic Area by the end of June, with plans to extend to Australia by September and to South Korea and Japan before the year ends. The remaining global markets may see these updates by September 2027, and the Registered App Stores program will launch with Android 17 later this year.

AppWizard

March 5, 2026

How many of these MMORPGs can you name in just 6 minutes based on a handful of vague details?

The author began their MMORPG journey in 2002 with the Korean MMO Priston Tale. They transitioned to a subscription model, requiring their mother’s assistance to pay with a money order due to their young age. Over time, they gained financial independence and now primarily play Final Fantasy 14, appreciating its nostalgic elements. The author reflects on the enduring popularity of some early MMORPGs and enjoys discussions about them with fellow gamers. They invite readers to test their knowledge of MMORPGs by identifying games based on town names or features.

AppWizard

March 4, 2026

Google Announces Registered App Stores For Android

Google is launching a Registered App Stores program for Android, allowing third-party app stores to officially register if they meet specific quality and safety criteria. This program aims to provide a better installation experience for users and will be rolled out in a major Android release later this year, initially targeting markets outside the US. Registration is optional, and stores can continue using the existing sideloading process. Alongside this, Google is unbundling its fee structure, reducing service fees for developers to between 15% and 20%, with an additional 5% fee for using Google Play billing in certain regions. The rollout of the new billing structure is expected by the end of June in the US, UK, and Europe, with global completion by September 30, 2027. The initiative is part of a broader settlement with Epic Games and reflects ongoing legal pressures for greater competition in app distribution.

AppWizard

March 4, 2026

Google stuffs Gemini into Android Studio Panda 2 to build apps from prompts

Google has released Android Studio Panda 2, featuring an AI agent that generates applications and an AI-enhanced version upgrade assistant. This version is based on JetBrains IntelliJ IDEA's community edition. The AI capabilities are powered by Gemini, Google's large language models, with a free tier offering a lightweight version of Gemini 2.5 Pro. Developers can create prototypes with a single prompt, and the AI agent automates project planning, code generation, error analysis, and self-correction. Users must sign into Gemini and enable AI integration, with data collection practices in place. A demonstration showed the AI generating a bridge deal analyzer, which functioned but had inaccuracies in the generated code. Android Studio also experienced performance issues and deprecated certain features, including the Custom View preview and 3D mode in the layout inspector.

Winsage

March 4, 2026

Windows 12 won’t be released in 2026, despite rumours

There are no plans to release Windows 12 this year, according to sources familiar with Microsoft's roadmap. The focus is on enhancing Windows 11, addressing user feedback, and improving its reputation. Claims about Windows 12, codenamed Hudson Valley Next, and its features, including a modular CorePC architecture and deep AI integration, have been refuted. CorePC was a project from 2023 that aimed to revive the WCOS vision but is likely scrapped. The codename Hudson Valley is unrelated to Windows 12, and speculations about a redesigned interface and subscription model lack official backing. Zac Bowden from Windows Central suggests that if Windows 12 is released, it won't be before 2027. Windows 11 has recently reached a record high market share as support for Windows 10 ends.

Tech Optimizer

March 2, 2026

Is Bitdefender Antivirus Better Than McAfee? What Consumer Reports Data Says

Consumer Reports evaluates antivirus software, assigning ratings out of five across factors such as protection, ease of use, and data privacy, culminating in a score out of 100. Top contenders include Bitdefender, McAfee, Norton, Avira, and Avast. Bitdefender specializes in anti-malware protection and offers a free version, while McAfee is a full security suite with a subscription model. Bitdefender slightly outperforms McAfee in overall ratings, though both scored equally in six categories during lab tests. McAfee includes features like a firewall and password manager, which Bitdefender lacks. Consumer Reports also assessed Bitdefender's paid security suites, which include more features than the free antivirus version and outperform McAfee Total Protection in functionality. Bitdefender's suites include features like spam filters, parental controls, and banking protection, while Consumer Reports rates Bitdefender higher overall.

AppWizard

March 1, 2026

Three phenomenal Triple-A console and PC games you can also play on Android

The reboot of Tomb Raider, originally launched in 2013 for Xbox 360 and PS3, has been adapted for mobile devices by Feral Interactive, featuring touch screen controls and traditional game controller support. The game performs well on moderate devices like the Pixel 10 series, achieving 30 FPS with graphics settings and over 40 FPS in performance mode. While its graphics do not match the latest triple-A titles, it maintains engaging combat mechanics and a compelling narrative. Red Dead Redemption has also been released on Android, requiring a Netflix subscription for access. The game runs smoothly on devices like the Pixel 10 series and recommends a Snapdragon 888 for optimal performance. It offers a rich storytelling experience at a lower cost compared to its Steam price. Subnautica, a survival game released in 2014, allows players to explore an underwater landscape after a crash landing. It performs well on mid-tier devices like the Pixel 10 series, providing around 30 hours of gameplay for the main quests, with additional time for exploration.

Tech Optimizer

March 1, 2026

Surfshark is one of the few VPNs to offer a real antivirus solution

Users are increasingly focused on the effectiveness of their security software alongside the number of streaming services they use. Leading VPN providers are responding by offering comprehensive packages that combine VPN capabilities with antivirus features. Surfshark has introduced Surfshark One, which integrates its VPN service with proprietary antivirus software. This solution is designed to provide a comprehensive cybersecurity experience within a single application. To access the antivirus feature, users must subscribe to the Surfshark One plan, which offers quick and full scans, customizable scanning options, and scheduled scans. Detected threats are quarantined and deleted after 60 days. The antivirus includes Cloud Protect for continuous defense against malware, updating its database every three hours, and provides 24/7 malware protection. Surfshark One also includes additional tools such as Alternative ID for safeguarding user information, Surfshark Alert for notifications about compromised sensitive information, and Surfshark Search for ad-free browsing. Surfshark's VPN offers access to over 4,500 servers and supports unlimited devices. Surfshark One differs from other VPN packages by providing essential tools for post-compromise care and customizable security settings. Competitors like ExpressVPN and NordVPN offer tiered pricing structures with advanced security features in higher-tier plans. To acquire Surfshark One, users can visit the Surfshark website and choose from various subscription plans. The cost difference between the Surfshark Starter plan and Surfshark One is minimal, with Surfshark One starting at .49 per month. Surfshark One+ includes additional features like personal data removal and identity theft coverage. Only a few providers currently offer both VPN and antivirus capabilities, including Surfshark, Private Internet Access, and CyberGhost.