Releases · Top stories
Women's Super League Launches New Fantasy Football App with Dual-League System
The Women's Super League (WSL) has released its first official fantasy football app, Barclays WSL and WSL2 Football Fantasy, which integrates players from both the WSL and WSL 2. This new app aims to address common fantasy sports retention issues by offering a six-part season and a broader player pool to maintain engagement.
PayPal and Venmo Partner with Education Payment Platforms for Tuition Payments
PayPal and Venmo have partnered with Illumia, Nelnet Campus Commerce, and TouchNet to allow students and families to pay college tuition using their services. This integration provides additional payment flexibility for higher education expenses.
Air Theremin Launches Browser-Based Instrument Playable via Webcam or Gyroscope
Air Theremin, a new browser-based musical instrument, allows users to play a theremin using hand gestures detected by a webcam or by tilting a smartphone's gyroscope. This release makes the theremin accessible without specialized hardware, leveraging common device sensors for interaction.
The Blood of Dawnwalker RPG announced, featuring time-sensitive gameplay and vampire protagonist
The Blood of Dawnwalker, a new dark fantasy role-playing game from developers who worked on The Witcher 3, has been announced. The game features a protagonist who is half-vampire, a 30-day in-game timer to save his family, and a planned trilogy spanning centuries. This release introduces a new RPG with unique time-management mechanics and a narrative structure designed for long-term player engagement.
OpenLogi: A Native, Local-First Alternative to Logitech Options+ for Peripheral Control
OpenLogi is a new open-source application written in Rust that provides native, local-first control for Logitech peripherals, offering an alternative to Logitech Options+. It allows users to remap buttons, control DPI, and manage SmartShift without requiring an account or telemetry, directly interacting with devices over HID++.
Samsung introduces new "Warranty and Care" menu in One UI 9 for easier repair management
Samsung is rolling out a new "Warranty and Care" menu within One UI 9, starting with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series, to centralize warranty and repair information for Galaxy devices. This update allows users to view warranty periods, Samsung Care+ eligibility, and estimated repair costs directly within their device settings, simplifying the process of managing device maintenance.
Apple Watch to host National Parks activity challenge on August 23
Apple Watch users can participate in the 2026 National Parks Challenge on Sunday, August 23, by recording a workout of 20 minutes or more. Completing the challenge unlocks a virtual trophy and animated stickers for use in Messages and FaceTime.
Pixel Screenshots app updated with new date and application filters
The Pixel Screenshots app received an update, version 1.26.281.05, introducing new filtering options by date range and source application. This update allows users to more precisely sort and locate screenshots within the app, complementing existing text search capabilities.
Google releases Magnifier app for Android to assist with reading small print
Google has released a new Magnifier app for Android devices, designed to help users read small print or distant objects by magnifying camera input. The app offers features beyond standard camera zoom, including text search and highlighting, color filters, and brightness adjustments, addressing limitations of typical smartphone camera functions for magnification.
AnduinOS Linux distribution simplifies running Windows and Android applications
AnduinOS, a custom Ubuntu-based Linux distribution, has released an update that simplifies the process of installing and running Windows and Android applications. This release aims to make the transition to Linux easier for users who rely on these applications.
Dressmaker Game Focuses on Creative Decisions in Virtual Garment Design
Jonathan Hau-Yoon and Sabrina Becker developed "Dressmaker," a game centered on the creative process of designing virtual clothing, inspired by Becker's interest in costume design. The game allows players to place garment pieces on a 3D model, decorate them with buttons and trims, and fulfill client commissions, incorporating a simplified measurement system for bespoke fits.
The Game Band Launches Dartwords, a New Daily Word Guessing Game
The Game Band, developer of Blaseball, launched Dartwords, a new daily word guessing game that uses a local LLM for conversational clues. This release expands the daily puzzle game genre with a different approach to hints compared to existing games.
Find Hub for Wear OS adds basic "Find people" app, lacking map view
Google has updated Find Hub on Wear OS to include a "Find people" app, which lists contacts who can see the user's location. The new feature currently lacks a map view, requiring users to switch to their phone to see locations, and contains a bug in its settings menu.
AirBuddy 3 Released with New Action HUD, Widgets, Now Playing, and Enhanced Automation
AirBuddy 3 has been released for Mac, introducing over 150 new features including a redesigned Action HUD, customizable widgets, a Now Playing feature, and expanded automation capabilities via AppleScript and Shortcuts. This update enhances the management of Apple devices and Bluetooth accessories on macOS, providing more control and information directly on the desktop.
Sun Clock Adds PWA Support, Dark Mode, Annual Calendar, and Bug Fixes
Sun Clock, a 24-hour clock displaying solar and lunar information, has been updated with Progressive Web App (PWA) functionality, an annual calendar, dark mode, and various bug fixes. These updates improve the application's accessibility, features, and user experience.
Automattic Launches Free WordPress.com Education Plan for Students and Teachers
Automattic introduced WordPress.com Education, a free program for teachers and students that provides full WordPress.com domains, free domain names, and plugin support. This initiative aims to integrate WordPress into educational settings to train future web professionals and expand its user base among younger generations.
LineageOS 23 now available for Samsung Galaxy S22 series, offering Android 16
LineageOS 23 nightly builds, based on Android 16, are now available for the Samsung Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra. This release provides an alternative to Samsung's One UI and extends the software lifespan of these devices.
Peak Design Launches City Line Bags with Integrated BagLev Hooks
Peak Design released its new City Line collection of six lightweight bags, including backpacks, totes, and slings. These bags feature a new integrated BagLev hook designed to suspend them from surfaces, keeping them off the ground.
GIMP 3.3.2 Development Release Introduces New Project File Format and Spectral Blending
GIMP announced the upcoming 3.3.2 development release will feature a new zipped XML-based project file format to replace XCF, enabling faster saving and future features like auto-saving. The update also reintroduces Spectral Blending to the MyPaint Brush Tool, which simulates physical pigment mixing.
AGI-64 Interpreter Brings Sierra AGI Games to Commodore 64
AGI-64, a new interpreter, is bringing Sierra's Adventure Game Interpreter (AGI) games to the Commodore 64, with Space Quest 1 already playable. This development allows classic adventure games to run on original Commodore 64 hardware, expanding the retro gaming experience for enthusiasts.
Final UI for Googlebook 'Desktop Camera' app revealed
The final user interface for the Googlebook 'Desktop Camera' application has been revealed through its Google Play listing, ahead of the Googlebook launch this fall. This application is designed for larger screens, including tablets, laptops, and desktops, offering features like external webcam support and smart document scanning.
Rhombus 1.1 Released with Annotation Definitions and Binding Form Improvements
Rhombus, a general-purpose programming language, has released version 1.1, introducing new ways to define annotations and improvements to binding forms. This update provides developers with more flexible and readable syntax for language customization and code organization.
iOS app "Carrier Pidge" simulates message delivery via carrier pigeon at 110 mph
Developer Noah Larrobino released "Carrier Pidge," an iOS app that sends messages at a simulated speed of 110 mph, mimicking carrier pigeon delivery. Messages can take up to 22 hours for cross-continental travel, and virtual pigeons can experience delays, get lost, or "die" en route, impacting message delivery reliability.
UK Politics Mobile Game "No 10: Full Confidence" Tops Apple's Paid Charts
A mobile game called "No 10: Full Confidence," developed in Manchester, has surpassed Minecraft to become the top-selling paid game on Apple's charts. The game simulates the role of a UK prime minister, requiring players to manage political factions through over 300 scenarios to stay in power.
SugarTrack: An Offline Android Blood Sugar Logbook Released
SugarTrack, a new Android application, has been released to provide an offline logbook for blood sugar tracking. The app stores all data locally on the device, requiring no account or internet connection, which addresses privacy concerns for personal health information.
Matt Groening hints at a return for The Simpsons: Hit & Run game
Matt Groening, co-creator of The Simpsons, suggested that the 2003 game "The Simpsons: Hit & Run" might be making a comeback in some form. This potential return could involve a direct port or an HD remaster, making the game accessible on modern consoles.
Marvel Studios releases first trailer for 'VisionQuest' at D23 fan event
Marvel Studios unveiled the first trailer for its new series "VisionQuest" at Disney's D23 fan event, detailing the premise of Vision's return and his journey with a mysterious boy. The series will explore themes of intergenerational trauma and feature returning actors Paul Bettany and James Spader.
Thunderbird Redesigns Desktop Calendar Interface for Modern UI Standards
Thunderbird is modernizing its desktop calendar interface to align with current UI standards, addressing its previously dated and convoluted design. This update aims to improve the user experience and compete with major productivity suites like Google Calendar and Apple/Microsoft applications.
VLC Media Player Experiences 33-Second MP3 Playback Delay on Windows 11 Due to Microsoft Defender
VLC Media Player users on Windows 11 are reporting delays of up to 33 seconds when playing MP3 files, which VLC developers attribute to Microsoft Defender quarantining the player's plugin cache. This issue causes VLC to spend significant time processing its plugin system before playback begins.
CrossPoint Reader firmware adds Libby and Kobo ebook support to Xteink e-readers
The alternative CrossPoint Reader firmware for Xteink X3, X4, and X4 Pro e-readers now supports third-party plugins, enabling access to DRM-protected ebooks from services like Libby and Kobo. This development addresses a previous limitation of Xteink devices, which required users to source DRM-free ebooks independently.
Indie Games Roundup: Meccha Chameleon Sells 20 Million, New Releases Include Agent 64
Meccha Chameleon has sold over 20 million copies in two months, becoming a significant indie success. Other indie titles like Machine Party, Big Walk, and ReStory also report strong sales, while new releases include Agent 64: Spies Never Die, a GoldenEye 007-inspired game.
Sony Releases A7R VI Camera with 66.8-Megapixel Sensor and 30fps Burst Shooting
Sony has released the A7R VI, a new high-resolution camera featuring a 66.8-megapixel sensor and a Bionz XR2 processor, enabling 30 frames per second burst shooting without viewfinder blackout. This release signifies an advancement in high-resolution camera capabilities, allowing for fast, silent shooting across various photography types, which was previously challenging with high-megapixel cameras.
Kingdom Hearts Anime Series Announced for Disney+ and Disney Channel
Disney announced an original anime series based on the Kingdom Hearts franchise will be released on Disney+ and Disney Channel. The series will feature a new story and was developed in collaboration with Kingdom Hearts director Tetsuya Nomura and Square Enix.
Racket v9.3 Released with Documentation Generation, Language Improvements, and Package Tool Updates
Racket v9.3 has been released, introducing markdown documentation generation via `raco setup`, parity for `#lang` teaching languages, and various updates to DrRacket and package management tools. This update provides incremental improvements for Racket developers and educators, enhancing development workflows and language consistency.
Android 17 QPR2 allows Pixel users to customize Quick Settings layout
Android 17 QPR2, released in a Canary build, introduces a feature for Pixel users to reorder elements within the Quick Settings shade. This update provides six layout combinations for the Brightness bar, Tiles, and Media player, offering more personalization for the user interface.
WhatsApp Beta for iOS Shows Customizable Emoji Reactions Feature
WhatsApp is testing a feature in its iOS beta that allows users to customize the default emoji reactions. This change would enable users to replace the standard six emoji reactions with their own choices, potentially enhancing personalization within the messaging app.
Mozilla's Pocket Read-It-Later App to Shut Down in May 2025
Mozilla announced the shutdown of its read-it-later app, Pocket, effective May 2025, prompting users to seek alternative services. This closure has led to increased adoption for other apps like Matter, Instapaper, and Raindrop.io, which offer similar functionalities for saving and organizing online content.
Apple TV adds classic movies and announces six new films for fall lineup
Apple TV has expanded its film library by adding numerous classic movies for subscribers and announced six new original films scheduled for release this fall. This move doubles Apple TV's existing film catalog and introduces a mix of mass-market and awards-focused content.
Lamborghini introduces Revuelto SV with increased horsepower and battery capacity
Lamborghini has released the Revuelto SV, an upgraded version of its flagship V12 supercar, featuring a 50 hp boost and an enhanced battery. This update provides higher performance for Lamborghini's top-tier hybrid-electric model.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Film to Stream on Disney+ Starting September 2
The film "The Mandalorian and Grogu" will be available for streaming on Disney+ beginning September 2. This release comes three months after its theatrical debut and six weeks after its digital purchase/rental availability, potentially aiding Disney+ subscriber retention.