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AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Google Photos could soon let you keep your phone awake all night for a good reason

Google Photos will introduce an "Overnight backup" feature to improve media backup on Android devices, addressing issues caused by background restrictions like Doze mode. Users must keep the app open, connect their device to a charger, and keep the phone unlocked while the screen dims to black during uploads. The feature aims to provide a reliable backup solution for large volumes of media. Users will receive guidance through the process, including reminders to stay on the app and keep the device charged. They can choose to use Wi-Fi or mobile data for backups, with Wi-Fi as the default. The app will alert users if their device overheats during the process and will notify free-tier users nearing storage limits. The feature is not yet available but reflects Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience.
Is a $1,200 gaming PC build in 2026 still possible?
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Is a $1,200 gaming PC build in 2026 still possible?

The prices for essential PC gaming components have increased significantly, making it difficult to assemble a gaming rig within the ,000 to ,500 range. It is still possible to build a system capable of running popular games like Counter Strike 2 and Valorant, as well as more demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Resident Evil Requiem, while also preparing for future releases such as GTA 6. A curated selection of components for a gaming PC totals approximately ,294, which includes: - Case: Gamemax M60 Micro ATX - CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 9600X (9) - CPU cooler: MSI MAG COREFROZR AA13 - Motherboard: ASRock B650M Pro RS WiFi (9) - RAM: Corsair Vengeance 2x8GB DDR5 6000 () - GPU: Gigabyte GeForce RTX 5060 Gaming OC V2 8GB (9) - SSD: Kingston NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, 1TB () - PSU: ASRock PRO-650G 650W The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is a six-core processor operating at 3.9 GHz, priced at 9. The MSI MAG COREFROZR AA13 CPU cooler has a maximum thermal design power (TDP) of 240W. The ASRock B650M Pro RS WiFi motherboard includes integrated WiFi. The RAM configuration consists of two 8GB sticks of Corsair's DDR5 6000 RAM, priced at . The RTX 5060 8GB graphics card is noted as a solid entry-level gaming GPU. The selected 1TB M.2 SSD costs , and the ASRock PRO-650G 650W power supply unit ensures stability for the system.
Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days Launches March 2027 for Console and PC
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days Launches March 2027 for Console and PC

PikPok has announced that Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days will transition from Early Access to its full 1.0 release in March 2027. The game will be available on multiple platforms, including Steam, the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and GeForce NOW. A new gameplay trailer has been released, showcasing expanded gameplay systems and moral dilemmas. The game has evolved significantly since its Early Access debut, incorporating player feedback and updates to enhance survival mechanics and gameplay. Players will scavenge for resources, manage shelters, and face moral choices in a desolate 1980s Texas. Mario Wynands, CEO of PikPok, expressed excitement for the launch and acknowledged the community's role in shaping the game. Additional information is available on the official website and social media platforms.
Is VLC taking an agonizingly long time to start up on Windows 11? Microsoft Defender is to blame
Winsage
August 19, 2026

Is VLC taking an agonizingly long time to start up on Windows 11? Microsoft Defender is to blame

Users of VLC on Windows 11 have experienced delays of up to 33 seconds for MP3 playback due to a bug in Microsoft Defender that interferes with VLC's plugin cache. VideoLAN has clarified that this issue is not a reflection of VLC's reliability. Affected users can resolve the problem by adding the VLC folder as an exception in Windows Defender or by regenerating the plugin cache. Jonathan Blow, a game developer, highlighted the issue in a tweet, prompting discussions about the state of open-source software. Other users have reported similar delays, even on Windows 10. VideoLAN emphasized that the problem lies with Microsoft Defender, not with VLC itself.
The Pixel Thermometer app icon is finally getting a gradient makeover
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

The Pixel Thermometer app icon is finally getting a gradient makeover

Google has updated the Pixel Thermometer app to version 1.0.947990598, featuring a new gradient app icon with a white background and blue gradient. The previous design, which had a blue background with a white thermometer, has been replaced. The "Apps" section has changed from "Fitbit" to "Google Health," reflecting a consolidation of health-related services under Google Health. The new app icon is being rolled out via the Play Store.
Is Steam Down? Is It Tuesday? It May Just Be Maintenance Day
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Is Steam Down? Is It Tuesday? It May Just Be Maintenance Day

Steam typically undergoes maintenance for approximately 10 to 30 minutes on select Tuesday evenings, usually between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET. This routine maintenance is not prominently published but is well-known among the gaming community.
Windows 11 is getting a major privacy upgrade, blocks apps spying on your camera and mic with new controls
Winsage
August 19, 2026

Windows 11 is getting a major privacy upgrade, blocks apps spying on your camera and mic with new controls

Windows 11 has introduced individual privacy controls for desktop applications, allowing users to manage access permissions for apps like Chrome and Steam through Settings > Privacy & security. This change enables users to selectively grant or deny access to features such as the microphone, camera, and location for each app, moving away from the previous system where traditional Win32 software was grouped under a single toggle. With the latest Experimental build (26340.9212), apps like Edge and Brave now have separate toggles for microphone, camera, and location access. Additionally, a new centered system dialog prompts users for permission when a desktop app attempts to access the microphone or camera for the first time. These features are still in testing and may not be universally available.
Grand Theft Auto 6 leaker says they won't stop until Rockstar and Take-Two apologize for 'anti-consumerism' and make a 'concrete commitment to do better'
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Grand Theft Auto 6 leaker says they won’t stop until Rockstar and Take-Two apologize for ‘anti-consumerism’ and make a ‘concrete commitment to do better’

Cyberleek has claimed responsibility for the leak of Grand Theft Auto 6 and issued a manifesto criticizing various practices in the gaming industry. The manifesto argues that publishers mislead consumers by selling licenses instead of actual ownership, releasing unfinished games as "living services," and locking content on physical discs that is sold as downloadable content (DLC). Cyberleek aims to challenge what they see as a decline in consumer value in the gaming industry. The release of Grand Theft Auto 6 is anticipated in three months, and efforts are being made to obtain responses from Take-Two Interactive and Rockstar Games regarding the situation.
Microsoft admits Windows 11's context menus are "cluttered and sluggish": Announces major upgrades to the right-click menu that increases performance and customizability
Winsage
August 19, 2026

Microsoft admits Windows 11’s context menus are “cluttered and sluggish”: Announces major upgrades to the right-click menu that increases performance and customizability

Microsoft has announced a major redesign of the context menus in File Explorer and on the desktop for Windows 11, aimed at improving the right-click experience by making it faster, less cluttered, and more customizable. Preview builds with the new context menu are being rolled out for Windows Insiders for testing and feedback. The updated menu addresses previous issues of clutter and sluggishness, allowing for a simpler and quicker user experience. Users can customize their context menus by enabling or disabling specific actions and hiding third-party app extensions. Additionally, users have the option to revert to the Windows 10 context menu layout within Windows 11. The new layout presents fewer actions and allows main commands to be listed inline, with Properties moved to the bottom. A broader rollout of these features is expected later this fall.
Осторожно троян: пиратские онлайн-версии «Одиссеи» могут скрывать вирусы
TrendTechie
August 19, 2026

Осторожно троян: пиратские онлайн-версии «Одиссеи» могут скрывать вирусы

Pirated digital copies of the film "Odyssey" are being used to spread the Lumma Stealer malware, which compromises viewers' computers. Bitdefender's internal data shows that users have attempted to download malicious executable files disguised as the film, which has not yet been released on online platforms. These counterfeit copies are circulating on illegal sites, and the Lumma Stealer malware can steal sensitive information from infected devices. Bitdefender identified several bait file names that are actually executable files designed to infect computers rather than play the film. This tactic follows a trend of using popular films to disseminate malware, with similar campaigns documented in the past. Cybercriminals exploit the gap between a film's theatrical release and its availability on legal streaming platforms. Users are advised to watch films only through verified services and to keep their cybersecurity software updated.
Утечка до релиза: экшен-хоррор The Sinking City 2 появился на торрентах за день до выхода
TrendTechie
August 19, 2026

Утечка до релиза: экшен-хоррор The Sinking City 2 появился на торрентах за день до выхода

The Sinking City 2, developed by Frogwares, is set to release on August 18, 2026, with a premium edition available for early access. The game is set in the 1920s in the partially submerged port city of Arkham, featuring survival horror mechanics that include inventory management, puzzle-solving, and resource management. The storyline involves rescuing a beloved character whose soul is trapped in the Dreamlands. Players will face enemies such as reanimated corpses and Deep Ones, requiring both combat and strategic retreats. A neural network-based Russian localization has been created by enthusiasts to enhance accessibility.
Google begins rolling out Android’s controversial new sideloading flow
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Google begins rolling out Android’s controversial new sideloading flow

Google has begun rolling out a new advanced flow for installing applications from unverified developers on Android, which includes a mandatory 24-hour waiting period. This process requires users to access Developer Options, enable the option for unverified apps, authenticate their screen lock, confirm they are not being pressured, restart their device, and then choose to allow unverified apps for seven days or indefinitely. Users will receive a warning when attempting to install unverified apps but can proceed if they choose. The new flow also applies to updates for unverified apps, and disabling it will prevent users from receiving updates until re-enabled. The Android Debug Bridge (ADB) remains exempt from these requirements. The rollout includes a new Android Developer Verifier service that users can install to expedite the appearance of the advanced flow. Developer verification enforcement will start on September 30 in select countries and will expand to all regions and app installations by 2027. Reactions to these changes have been mixed, with many users expressing concerns about the additional barriers to accessing apps.
Here's your next batch of Xbox and PC Game Pass games for August
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Here’s your next batch of Xbox and PC Game Pass games for August

The latest Xbox and PC Game Pass titles for August include the day-one release of "Resonance: A Plague Tale," a prequel developed by Asobo, featuring dual timelines set on Crete. The game shifts from stealth mechanics to a combat-centric approach, with stunning visuals and intricate puzzles. Another title, "Blood Dungeon," also a day-one Game Pass release from Messhof, takes a Metroidvania approach. The Remastered edition of "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" will leave Game Pass at the end of August. Available on Game Pass now: - Egging On (August 18) Coming to Game Pass soon: - Vapor World: Over the Mind (August 19) - BlazBlue Entropy Effect X (August 19) - Relooted (August 19) - Starsand Island (August 20) - Aerial_Knight's DropShot (August 25) - Blood Dungeon (August 25) - Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy (August 27) - Young Suns (August 31) - Shelldiver (September 1) Leaving Game Pass August 31: - Another Crab's Treasure - I Am Your Beast - Neon Abyss - One Lonely Outpost - The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt - Remastered Edition Leaving September 6: - NBA 2K26 Games marked with a "handheld" designation are optimized for handheld play.
I modded GTA 5 into a life-sim RPG with mining, foraging, a mini-economy, and the ability to fall asleep in the middle of the road
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

I modded GTA 5 into a life-sim RPG with mining, foraging, a mini-economy, and the ability to fall asleep in the middle of the road

Grand Theft Auto 6 is expected to offer an immersive gaming experience that blurs the lines between the virtual world and reality, surpassing the immersive potential of Grand Theft Auto 5. A notable mod for GTA 5, called Roleplay Alone, transforms the game into a pseudo-life simulator, introducing quirky tasks for characters like Michael, Franklin, and Trevor, such as mining ores and distributing cannabis. In this mod, players can see Franklin mining with one hand while wearing a stylish jumper, and the gameplay includes humorous moments, like collapsing from exhaustion. Although the mod does not make GTA 5 fully immersive, it provides an entertaining diversion with mundane tasks, including fishing, which adds to the exploration and creativity within the game.
Microsoft finally fixing File Explorer and the Context Menu
Winsage
August 19, 2026

Microsoft finally fixing File Explorer and the Context Menu

Microsoft is transforming its File Explorer and context menu to improve user experience and address quality concerns. CEO Satya Nadella has acknowledged the need to regain user loyalty, as File Explorer has faced issues like feature bloat and performance instability. The updated context menu, currently in the Experimental Windows Insider Channel, aims to reduce clutter and sluggishness, allowing users to access essential functions easily and customize their experience. Microsoft has also reintroduced the movable Taskbar and options to restore the Windows 10 context menu style, indicating a shift towards prioritizing user preferences.
China’s State-Linked Firms Are Moving Away From Windows 10 Due To Security Concerns, Despite The Custom OS Developed By Microsoft Under Stringent Supervision
Winsage
August 19, 2026

China’s State-Linked Firms Are Moving Away From Windows 10 Due To Security Concerns, Despite The Custom OS Developed By Microsoft Under Stringent Supervision

The Ministry of State Security in China has ordered the removal of the "Government Edition" of Windows 10 from state-operated organizations due to concerns over cyber vulnerabilities. This version was developed through a collaboration between Microsoft and C&M Information Technologies (CMIT) starting in 2016. The plan to transition away from Windows 10, originally set for February 2027, has been accelerated amid rising national security concerns regarding reliance on U.S. technology. China is exploring alternatives for software, including a custom version of Windows 11, Huawei's HarmonyOS, and state-backed Linux distributions like UnionTech’s UOS and Kylinsoft's Kylinsec. Following the announcement, domestic operating system vendors saw a rise in stock prices. The motivations for this shift are linked to geopolitical tensions with the United States, as China emphasizes its commitment to digital security and technological sovereignty.
Tap into the power of Gemini in Chrome on Android.
AppWizard
August 19, 2026

Tap into the power of Gemini in Chrome on Android.

Gemini in Chrome has launched for all Android users in the U.S., offering features that enhance mobile browsing. It allows users to summarize long articles and answer inquiries about web pages, integrating with Google applications like Calendar and Keep. The Nano Banana feature enables image customization for a personalized browsing experience. Subscribers to AI Pro and AI Ultra can use the auto browse functionality to manage tasks like booking parking or organizing travel plans. Gemini in Chrome is designed with security in mind, detecting threats and requiring user confirmation for sensitive tasks. Users can access Gemini by tapping the icon or through the three-dot menu on their Android devices.
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