Soft & games news and updates for all platforms Page 263

15 Aug 2024

Judge Plans Major Reforms to Google Play Store After Monopoly Ruling

A federal judge plans significant changes to Google's Android app store after a jury ruled the Play Store is an illegal monopoly. The reforms may allow alternative app stores, reducing Google's control over app distribution and billing. Google cites security risks, but changes aim to foster competition.

15 Aug 2024

Microsoft Disables Fix for BitLocker Vulnerability Due to Firmware Issues

Microsoft has acknowledged a critical security vulnerability, CVE-2024-38058, allowing attackers to bypass BitLocker Device Encryption. Due to firmware issues, the fix will be disabled in August 2024 updates. Users should follow mitigation measures in KB5025885, which involve a complex procedure.

15 Aug 2024

Cyber Campaign Targets Chinese Sectors with ValleyRAT Malware

A cyber campaign targeting Chinese Windows users has been identified, utilizing the ValleyRAT malware. The attack focuses on sectors such as e-commerce, finance, sales, and management. It begins with a lure that appears as a legitimate document, triggering Microsoft Office applications.

15 Aug 2024

Demanding Games Continue to Challenge Modern GPUs and High-End Hardware

Star Citizen remains a demanding title, challenging even modern GPUs like the RTX 3070. Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Assassin's Creed Odyssey still require powerful hardware six years after their release. Control and Red Dead Redemption 2 continue to push PCs to their limits five years post-launch.

15 Aug 2024

Gemini AI App Reintroduces Google Assistant Routines for Android Users

The Gemini AI app has launched a feature enabling Android users to set Routines via voice commands. This update reintroduces Google Assistant's Routines within the Gemini app, aiming to offer a more comprehensive multimodal experience. Not all commands are supported, and typing Routines is unavailable.

15 Aug 2024

Vulnerability Found in Google Pixel Devices, Fix Pending from Google

A vulnerability in Google Pixel devices, linked to the "Showcase.apk" software by Smith Micro for Verizon, has been identified. Despite Google's assurance of an upcoming fix and no current exploitation evidence, concerns persist about potential risks. The app is absent in the new Pixel 9 series.

15 Aug 2024

Judge Weighs Mandate for Google Play Store to Allow Alternative App Stores

US District Judge James Donato is considering a mandate for Google’s Play Store to allow alternative app stores. This follows a jury verdict identifying the Play Store as a monopoly. Google cites security risks, while compliance costs are estimated at 7 million. Epic Games suggests quicker, cheaper adjustments.

15 Aug 2024

Valve Introduces New Regulations for Steam Store Pages Starting September

Valve will implement new regulations for Steam store pages starting early September, banning developers and publishers from including external links in their descriptions. This change affects sections like "About the game" and "Awards," aiming to improve user experience by limiting promotional content.

15 Aug 2024

PC Gamer Celebrates 400th Issue with Exclusive Content and Top 100 Games

PC Gamer magazine celebrates its 400th issue with a gold-foil wallet and a mini-mag on the Top 100 PC games. Highlights include an exclusive Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 preview, indie game features, and reviews of new titles. Available in print and digitally.

15 Aug 2024

Surfshark Earns Top Product Title from AV-Test for VPN and Antivirus

Surfshark has been recognized by AV-Test as a leading player in cybersecurity, earning the 'TOP PRODUCT' title for its VPN and antivirus solutions. Surfshark Antivirus scored 5.5 out of 6 in performance and achieved a 100% detection rate against 0-day malware. The antivirus is part of the Surfshark One package.

15 Aug 2024

Federal Judge Signals Major Reforms for Google's Play Store Operations

A federal judge has signaled that significant reforms are likely for Google’s Play Store, requiring it to allow alternative app stores. This follows a jury verdict deeming the Play Store a monopoly. Google has expressed security concerns, but changes are expected within weeks.

15 Aug 2024

Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions Now Available for .99

The digital download for Minecraft: Java and Bedrock Editions is now available for $19.99, down from the regular price. The Java Edition supports Windows, macOS, and Linux with extensive customization, while the Bedrock Edition offers cross-platform play and access to the Minecraft Marketplace.

15 Aug 2024

Federal Judge Plans Reforms to Google's Android App Store Practices

A federal judge plans significant reforms to Google’s Android app store after a jury ruled the company’s practices as an illegal monopoly. The order will likely require Google to allow alternative app stores on Android devices, aiming to boost competition and consumer choice.

15 Aug 2024

Valve Updates Game Store Page Guidelines to Enhance User Experience

Valve has updated its game store page guidelines, effective early September. Developers can no longer include links to other websites or Steam game listings in most sections, aiming to reduce clutter and enhance user experience. An automatic detection system will hide non-compliant links.

15 Aug 2024

Microsoft Expands BitLocker in Windows 11 Update, Impact on SSD Performance

Microsoft's upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update will enable BitLocker device encryption by default on a broader range of devices. Tests show it may reduce SSD performance, with sequential read speeds dropping up to 45% and write speeds by around 40%. BitLocker will activate automatically on new PCs or clean installs.

15 Aug 2024

Federal Judge to Mandate Changes to Google’s Android App Store

A federal judge plans significant changes to Google’s Android app store after a jury ruled it an illegal monopoly. Modifications may include allowing alternative app stores, reducing Google's control. Google cites security concerns. The judge aims for a competitive app store landscape.

15 Aug 2024

Russia Blocks Signal App Citing Anti-Terror Law Violations

Russia's media regulator, Roskomnadzor, has blocked the messaging app Signal, citing violations of anti-terror legislation. This follows over 2,000 user complaints about access issues. The move comes amid broader efforts to control information, including recent difficulties accessing YouTube.

14 Aug 2024

Microsoft Considers Default Encryption for Windows 11 Home PCs

In May, Microsoft considered default encryption for Windows 11 24H2 Home PCs, potentially impacting performance. AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series may enhance encryption with AES-XTS. Users need a BitLocker recovery key, more accessible via a Microsoft Account. Microsoft is investigating recent BitLocker issues.

14 Aug 2024

Judge Orders Google to Revamp App Store Practices to Curb Monopoly

Judge James Donato has ordered Google to alter its app store practices after a jury found its Android app store to be an illegal monopoly. The changes include removing barriers to competition and possibly opening the Google Play Store to rival stores. A final ruling is expected in two weeks.

14 Aug 2024

Springloaded Announces New Management Simulation Game Let's Build a Dungeon

Springloaded, the studio behind Let's Build a Zoo, has announced a new management simulation game called Let's Build a Dungeon. Players will design and manage their own MMORPG, facing real-world dilemmas. A release date is pending, but a beta version is available for registration on the official website.

14 Aug 2024

Sega and Two Point Studios Announce New Game Two Point Museum

Sega and Two Point Studios announce Two Point Museum, a game where players act as curators managing exhibits and expeditions. Key elements include guided tours, gift shops, and restrooms. The game involves strategy and addresses real-world museum issues. Now available for wishlisting on Steam.

14 Aug 2024

Fallout: London Mod Sets Record with 500,000 Redemptions on GOG in 24 Hours

Fallout: London, a full conversion mod for Fallout 4, was released on July 24 and achieved over 500,000 redemptions within 24 hours on GOG, setting a platform record. The mod is installable on a Steam copy of Fallout 4 but not available on Steam Workshop or Nexus Mods. Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition is now GOG's best-seller, boosted by a 60% discount.

14 Aug 2024

Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions Discounted to .99 for Limited Time

Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions are now available for a limited-time price of $19.99, down from the regular price. This digital download combines both editions into a single launcher, enabling easy switching. The Java Edition supports mods, while the Bedrock Edition allows cross-platform play.

14 Aug 2024

Players Turn to Alternatives Amid Optifine 1.21 Instability and Delays

Optifine's recent instability and delays in releasing version 1.21 have prompted Minecraft players to explore alternatives like Sodium, Iris Shaders, and Lithium. These mods, along with modpacks such as Fabulously Optimized and Simply Optimized, offer enhanced performance and compatibility with new game versions.

14 Aug 2024

BioWare to Announce Dragon Age: The Veilguard Release Date on August 15

BioWare will reveal the release date for Dragon Age: The Veilguard on August 15 via a YouTube trailer. Key events include a gameplay showcase the week of August 19, Companions Week starting August 26, and a Developer Q&A on August 30. The game is set to launch this fall.

14 Aug 2024

Microsoft Releases Critical Security Update for Windows Vulnerability

Microsoft has released a critical security update for a remote code execution vulnerability in the Windows TCP/IP stack, CVE-2024-38063. Affecting all supported Windows versions, this "0-click" flaw can be exploited via IPv6 packets. Organizations are urged to apply updates and monitor IPv6 traffic.

14 Aug 2024

Microsoft Issues Patch Tuesday Updates for 90 Windows Vulnerabilities

Microsoft's latest Patch Tuesday addresses 90 vulnerabilities, including five critical zero-day threats under active attack. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) mandates compliance by September 3. Key issues include remote code execution and elevation of privilege flaws.

14 Aug 2024

GameSpot Introduces Age Verification for Restricted Video Content

GameSpot has introduced age verification measures, requiring users to confirm their date of birth and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy before accessing certain video content. This strategy aims to comply with legal standards and ensure a safe viewing environment.

14 Aug 2024

XCOM 2 Sees Significant Discount on Steam, Now Available for £1.74

XCOM 2, boasting a 94% rating, is now available on Steam for £1.74. With an average playtime of 28 hours and 28 minutes, the game has seen similar discounts over the past year. The DLC, War of the Chosen, remains at its previous price of around £2.40 and is not currently discounted.

14 Aug 2024

Owlcat Games Expands into Publishing, Supports Indie RPG Developers

Owlcat Games is entering the publishing arena to support indie studios specializing in role-playing and narrative-driven games. They have signed projects from Serbia's Emotion Spark Studio and Poland's Another Angle Games, and acquired Meta Publishing. The focus is on storytelling passion.

Tiny Watcher: Optimize Your System Maintenance

Apps & Games news for all platforms Page 263

Judge Plans Major Reforms to Google Play Store After Monopoly Ruling

Microsoft Disables Fix for BitLocker Vulnerability Due to Firmware Issues

Cyber Campaign Targets Chinese Sectors with ValleyRAT Malware

Demanding Games Continue to Challenge Modern GPUs and High-End Hardware

Gemini AI App Reintroduces Google Assistant Routines for Android Users

Vulnerability Found in Google Pixel Devices, Fix Pending from Google

Judge Weighs Mandate for Google Play Store to Allow Alternative App Stores

Valve Introduces New Regulations for Steam Store Pages Starting September

PC Gamer Celebrates 400th Issue with Exclusive Content and Top 100 Games

Surfshark Earns Top Product Title from AV-Test for VPN and Antivirus

Federal Judge Signals Major Reforms for Google's Play Store Operations

Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions Now Available for .99

Federal Judge Plans Reforms to Google's Android App Store Practices

Valve Updates Game Store Page Guidelines to Enhance User Experience

Microsoft Expands BitLocker in Windows 11 Update, Impact on SSD Performance

Federal Judge to Mandate Changes to Google’s Android App Store

Russia Blocks Signal App Citing Anti-Terror Law Violations

Microsoft Considers Default Encryption for Windows 11 Home PCs

Judge Orders Google to Revamp App Store Practices to Curb Monopoly

Springloaded Announces New Management Simulation Game Let's Build a Dungeon

Sega and Two Point Studios Announce New Game Two Point Museum

Fallout: London Mod Sets Record with 500,000 Redemptions on GOG in 24 Hours

Minecraft Java and Bedrock Editions Discounted to .99 for Limited Time

Players Turn to Alternatives Amid Optifine 1.21 Instability and Delays

BioWare to Announce Dragon Age: The Veilguard Release Date on August 15

Microsoft Releases Critical Security Update for Windows Vulnerability

Microsoft Issues Patch Tuesday Updates for 90 Windows Vulnerabilities

GameSpot Introduces Age Verification for Restricted Video Content

XCOM 2 Sees Significant Discount on Steam, Now Available for £1.74

Owlcat Games Expands into Publishing, Supports Indie RPG Developers

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