subsidiary Archives

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

EU sanctions target Russian state-backed messaging app

Moscow is promoting Max, a super-app that consolidates various digital services, while cracking down on messaging platforms WhatsApp and Telegram. The Russian government has required civil servants and state-owned enterprises to use Max for communications. The EU has imposed sanctions on VK, the media conglomerate behind Max, due to concerns that the app is monitored by the FSB and has surveillance capabilities that suppress dissent regarding Russia's actions in Ukraine. Max, which is compared to China's WeChat, integrates social media, messaging, and access to government services. President Putin has called Max a "secure" alternative, but EU officials have expressed skepticism, seeing it as part of a strategy to create a "digital iron curtain" in Russia amidst ongoing international sanctions.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

EU Sanctions VK for Developing Messenger App Max

The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russian tech giant VK and its subsidiary, Communication Platform LLC, due to their involvement in the development of the Kremlin-backed messaging app, Max. The development of Max was overseen by the Federal Security Service (FSB), and it has been criticized for its surveillance capabilities. These sanctions are part of a broader strategy by the EU and the UK to target entities linked to Russian cyberattacks. The EU and UK also announced additional sanctions against individuals and entities involved in Russian cyber operations, including targeting leaders of Russia's GRU military intelligence and individuals linked to the FSB’s Center 16. Apple removed VK platforms and the Max app from its App Store last month, citing compliance with sanctions. The EU plans to introduce its 21st package of sanctions against Russia soon.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

EU Imposes Sanctions on Tech Giant VK and State-Backed MAX Messaging App

The European Union has sanctioned VK, the Russian technology firm behind VKontakte and its subsidiary MAX, due to their involvement in cyber activities and providing personal data to Russian authorities against dissenters. These sanctions were formalized on July 13 and align with a broader effort involving the UK, targeting individuals and entities linked to Russia's cyber operations. The MAX application is developed under the oversight of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). Additionally, Apple's removal of VK applications from its App Store has prompted a response from the Kremlin, with government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicating a need for clarification from Apple on this decision.

BetaBeacon

June 17, 2026

Pokémon Champions Available Now on iOS and Android Devices

The Pokémon Company International has released Pokémon Champions for mobile devices, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2 consoles. Players can participate in a special in-game campaign featuring Raichu until September 2, 2026, to receive Raichu and Mega Stones. The game is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all players, with free downloads and cross-play compatibility.

AppWizard

June 12, 2026

Microsoft is looking to speed up development of future Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and Halo games

Microsoft is considering a strategic pivot for its Xbox division, which may include spinning it off into a standalone entity or transforming it into a wholly-owned subsidiary. There are discussions about a potential joint venture with unnamed partners to facilitate a smoother sale of Xbox. The company is focusing its resources on its most prominent gaming titles while facing challenges, including the possibility of job losses for hundreds of employees. Anticipated game releases like Fallout 4 and The Elder Scrolls VI have left fans waiting for updates, and the Halo franchise has seen stagnation since the establishment of 343 Industries. Halo Infinite's content updates ceased in 2025, four years after its launch. Microsoft has not yet made immediate changes but is exploring a broad range of options for the future of Xbox.

Tech Optimizer

June 11, 2026

Avast One: Security and privacy suite under the microscope

Avast One is the flagship consumer security suite from Avast (Gen Digital), combining antivirus, firewall, VPN, and privacy utilities into a single subscription for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It offers four primary areas: device security, online privacy, identity protection, and performance tools. Device security includes real-time antivirus, Web Shield, Mail Shield, and Ransomware Shield. The online privacy component features a full VPN service with bank-grade encryption and a no-logs policy. Identity protection includes data breach monitoring and, in some markets, credit monitoring. Performance tools assist with disk cleanup and system optimization. Avast One has three plan tiers: Avast One Essential (free), Avast One Individual (paid, supports multiple devices), and Avast One Family (paid, supports up to 30 devices). Pricing varies based on promotions, with Avast One Individual typically around per year and Avast One Family ranging from to 0 per year. The suite can be downloaded directly from Avast's website, with installers available for various platforms. Avast One includes automatic updates and is designed to operate lightly on modern hardware, with options to minimize system impact during scans. Customer support includes self-help documentation, community forums, and direct support for paying customers. Avast One aims to appeal to both non-technical users and power users, providing a user-friendly interface while allowing for advanced configurations. The product is positioned as a comprehensive solution for households looking to secure multiple devices with a single subscription.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

METABORA GAMES Launches ‘Puzzle & Guardians’ as a LINE MINI App in Japan

On June 8, 2026, METABORA GAMES launched 'Puzzle & Guardians', a collaborative game with Baligames, available as a MINI App on LINE Messenger. The game combines casual three-match puzzle battles and RPG elements, allowing players to collect Guardians and participate in 1v1 PvP duels and dungeon explorations for BORA token rewards. It is accessible to over 100 million LINE users without additional downloads, enhancing user experience. 'Puzzle & Guardians' is integrated with BORA DEEPS, offering customized missions and rewards usable across various BORA DEEPS features. METABORA GAMES plans to expand localized content for the Japanese market and host events to increase the utility of the BORA token.

AppWizard

June 6, 2026

Guild Wars 3, Modern Evolution of the MMORPG, Announced at Summer Game Fest for PC and PlayStation 5

The official debut trailer for Guild Wars 3 has been released, featuring the first in-engine gameplay footage. The game is set over a thousand years before the original and takes place in the Tyrian region of Orr, inhabited by Vael spirits. Players will assume the role of a Vaelwarden, part of a guild focused on protecting the spirits and land. The combat system emphasizes strategic positioning and movement. Further details regarding pricing, beta tests, and release dates will be revealed in late 2026 and into 2027. Guild Wars 3 will be available from GuildWars3.com, and players can wishlist it on Steam and the PlayStation Store. The Guild Wars franchise, launched in 2005, has welcomed over 29 million players and is known for its fast-paced action combat and friendly community. ArenaNet, founded in 2000, is the developer of the Guild Wars series and operates as a subsidiary of NCSOFT.

Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2026

How We Test Antivirus and Security Software

Most software applications clearly indicate their functionality, but the effectiveness of antivirus utilities is often less tangible. PCMag rigorously evaluates antivirus products through comprehensive tests that validate their claims, including real-world malware samples and various protective measures. Each antivirus tool is assessed based on its on-demand scanner and real-time monitor capabilities. PCMag compiles fresh malware samples annually, analyzing them to ensure they are suitable for testing. The testing process includes evaluating malware-blocking capabilities and web-level protection against known malware-hosting sites. Phishing site detection is also tested using recent URLs, and antispam testing has been simplified due to the effectiveness of email providers. Performance impact tests have been discontinued as modern security suites show improved efficiency. Firewall protection is evaluated through program control, exploit defenses, and overall resilience against malware. Parental control features are tested for effectiveness in content filtering and monitoring. Ransomware protection is assessed by releasing real-world samples in a controlled environment. PCMag monitors independent antivirus lab tests from various organizations, including AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, SE Labs, MRG-Effitas, and AVLab, to inform their reviews. An aggregate testing score is calculated to summarize lab results. Testing methodologies do not include VPN evaluations, which are covered separately.

AppWizard

June 1, 2026

A Baldur’s Gate 2 remake is apparently in development, with the original co-lead designer returning

Wizards of the Coast is planning a revival of classic titles, specifically focusing on remakes of Baldur's Gate and Baldur's Gate 2. Kevin Martens, a former BioWare developer known for his work on Baldur's Gate 2, is involved with Archetype Entertainment, a subsidiary of Wizards of the Coast. Fans are hoping for gameplay that combines nostalgia with modern mechanics, including real-time-with-pause battles and an optional turn-based mode. Hasbro, Wizards of the Coast's parent company, has faced challenges in leveraging the success of Baldur's Gate 3 and has canceled a Dungeons & Dragons game while leaving Warlock as the only remaining project outside the traditional Baldur's Gate experience.