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silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
April 26, 2026

Train Sim World 6 and a bunch of DLCs are 89% off in this new Humble Bundle

Train Sim World 6 was released in mid-2025 and has received significant updates, including new downloadable content (DLC). The game features new tracks such as the Exeter-to-Plymouth and Paignton Riviera Line in Devon, enhanced graphics that approach photo-realism, and additional routes like the US Morristown line and a revamped Bahnstrecke Leipzig-to-Dresden. It includes train announcements to improve immersion. The Train Sim World 6 First Class Ticket Bundle offers the base game and seven DLCs at an 89% discount, with a 50% discount on premium editions. Notable DLCs include the Flying Scotsman steam train and a remastered Great Western Express route. The bundle is available until May 8 for £13.40.
Microsoft Replaces Copilot in Windows 11 Notepad With Writing Tools Update
Winsage
April 26, 2026

Microsoft Replaces Copilot in Windows 11 Notepad With Writing Tools Update

Microsoft has updated the Notepad application in Windows 11, renaming the Copilot feature to "Writing tools." The Copilot button has been removed and replaced with a small pen icon that accesses the Writing tools menu. This update is being gradually rolled out to users, aiming to enhance the interface while retaining existing AI capabilities for writing tasks.
Fix: You'll need a new app to open this windowsdefender link
Tech Optimizer
April 26, 2026

Fix: You’ll need a new app to open this windowsdefender link

The message “You’ll need a new app to open this windowsdefender link” indicates issues with the Windows operating system when the Windows Security app fails to launch via the windowsdefender protocol. This can prevent users from accessing the security dashboard, despite Microsoft Defender continuing to operate in the background. Common scenarios leading to this error include clicking on Virus & Threat Protection, trying to open Windows Security from the Start menu, interacting with a Defender notification, or following the uninstallation of third-party antivirus software. Root causes may include corrupted Windows Security app registration, damaged system files, third-party antivirus interference, misconfiguration of the Security Center service, or malware interference. To resolve the issue, users can verify that required services are running, repair system files using SFC and DISM, re-register the Windows Security app, check for third-party antivirus conflicts, and perform a repair installation of Windows. Specific steps include checking the status of the Security Center and Microsoft Defender Antivirus Service, executing repair commands in CMD, re-registering the Windows Security app using PowerShell, uninstalling third-party antivirus software, and performing an in-place upgrade if necessary.
Ring’s Billion-Scale Semantic Video Search with Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL and pgvector
Tech Optimizer
April 26, 2026

Ring’s Billion-Scale Semantic Video Search with Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL and pgvector

Users of Ring's semantic video search can quickly find specific moments in video data, such as "a dog in my backyard" or "a package delivery," using a system that employs PostgreSQL and pgvector for video data handling. The system utilizes vector embeddings to represent visual content, allowing for efficient storage and similarity searches. When a user queries a term, the system converts it into a vector to retrieve similar video frames in under two seconds. Ring's video search operates on a global scale, processing billions of read requests daily across four continents and nine AWS regions, with strict latency requirements for millions of users. Key metrics include storing 100–200 billion embeddings, generating approximately 2 billion new embeddings daily, and maintaining a data footprint of 140–150+ TB across three PostgreSQL clusters.
LEGO Minecraft book exclusive minifigure revealed
AppWizard
April 26, 2026

LEGO Minecraft book exclusive minifigure revealed

LEGO Minecraft: Craft Your Quest will be released on October 8, 2026, with pre-orders currently open on Amazon. The book includes over 40 LEGO elements, a play scene, a poster, and stickers, and features an Ori minifigure resembling the one on the cover. The hardcover edition is priced at £19.99, and pre-order customers will benefit from a price guarantee. A list of book-exclusive LEGO minifigures for 2026 will also be available, featuring themes like Marvel, DC, and NINJAGO.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
April 26, 2026

NVIDIA Neural Texture Compression: AI-powered compression aims to alleviate VRAM pressure in PC games

NVIDIA's Neural Texture Compression (NTC) improves memory efficiency in PC gaming by using small neural networks to compress texture data, achieving up to eight times better memory efficiency compared to traditional methods. In a technical demo, NTC reduced a scene's VRAM requirement from 6.5 GB to approximately 970 MB, an 85 percent reduction. The RTX Neural Texture Compression SDK has seen enhancements, including a 20 to 40 percent increase in inference speed. NTC is compatible with RTX hardware and Tensor Cores, but its real-world performance impact is yet to be determined. Microsoft is developing Cooperative Vectors and DirectX methodologies to support machine learning in graphics, which may facilitate broader adoption of NTC. The successful integration of NTC will depend on its stability, documentation, and economic viability for developers.
Secret Mode removed Denuvo from STAR WARS: Galactic Racer
AppWizard
April 26, 2026

Secret Mode removed Denuvo from STAR WARS: Galactic Racer

Secret Mode has removed Denuvo from STAR WARS: Galactic Racer ahead of its official launch. The game features high-octane races in the Outer Rim, allowing players to pilot various repulsorcraft and engage in a solo story-driven campaign as well as PvP multiplayer races. The minimum PC requirements for the game are an Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600, 12GB of RAM, Nvidia RTX 2060 or equivalent, and 50GB of free disk space. A specific release date has not been announced, but the game is expected to launch later this year.
‘Shutdown, Restart’—Microsoft Changes Windows On 1 Billion PCs
Winsage
April 26, 2026

‘Shutdown, Restart’—Microsoft Changes Windows On 1 Billion PCs

Microsoft has announced changes to the Windows operating system to improve user experience concerning updates, restarts, and shutdowns, impacting over a billion users. Key enhancements include the ability to skip updates during the out-of-box experience, extend update pauses indefinitely, always-available options to shut down and restart without updating, and more insights on available updates. These changes are currently rolling out to Windows Insiders and those in the Experimental channels, with plans to extend to all users soon.
Microsoft rolls out revamped Windows Insider Program
Winsage
April 26, 2026

Microsoft rolls out revamped Windows Insider Program

Microsoft is overhauling its Windows Insider Program to enhance the reliability of Windows 11 and improve user feedback responsiveness. The program will now consist of two channels: Experimental, which replaces the Dev and Canary channels for testing experimental features, and Beta, which will provide immediate access to all features listed in the release notes without gradual rollouts. The transition will occur in phases, starting with users in the Dev Channel moving to Experimental. Users from the Canary Channel will also be transitioned to specific versions of the Experimental channel. Beta Channel users will experience a new Beta setup, with minor adjustments possible. Microsoft is updating build details, with the latest builds including Build 26220.8283 for Beta, Build 26300.8289 for Experimental, Build 28020.1873 for Experimental 26H1, and Build 29576.1000 for Experimental Future Platforms. Additionally, a new Windows Update experience will allow users to pause updates and avoid unexpected reboots.
Microsoft explains why Windows 11 File Explorer scrolls smoothly in some places, but not everywhere
Winsage
April 26, 2026

Microsoft explains why Windows 11 File Explorer scrolls smoothly in some places, but not everywhere

Users have reported an inconsistent scrolling experience in Microsoft’s File Explorer, with smooth scrolling in the Gallery and Home views but jagged scrolling in standard folders. This discrepancy is due to the Gallery and Home views utilizing the WinUI 3 framework, while standard folders rely on legacy Win32 code. Microsoft is modernizing aspects of File Explorer but has not yet rewritten its foundational elements, leading to different rendering paths. The traditional folder views retain essential functionalities but sacrifice some modern UI features. Touch support issues are acknowledged, with current interactions prioritizing mouse and keyboard over touch gestures. Microsoft is addressing performance and reliability issues, with improvements in folder view consistency and reduced crashes noted in recent preview builds. These updates are expected in the May 2026 update, while smooth scrolling enhancements are planned for the future.
I don't understand how Final Fantasy 14 can do a crossover with acclaimed anime Neon Genesis Evangelion and I'm scared to find out
AppWizard
April 26, 2026

I don’t understand how Final Fantasy 14 can do a crossover with acclaimed anime Neon Genesis Evangelion and I’m scared to find out

Final Fantasy XIV is introducing a new alliance raid titled "Ghosts of Desire," developed with input from the filmmakers of the Evangelion series. This collaboration aims to merge the lore of both franchises. The game's popularity has grown significantly since its early days in 2014, particularly following successful expansions. The announcement of "Ghosts of Desire" has generated interest among both gamers and Evangelion fans. Comments on the teaser trailer have been disabled, possibly to manage speculation about the project. The new expansion, Evercold, is set to be released next year, but players may need to wait several years for "Ghosts of Desire" to fully unfold.
Modder brings playable Halo Elite to Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2
AppWizard
April 26, 2026

Modder brings playable Halo Elite to Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2

Artist Skykillerr has created a mod for Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 that allows players to play as a Sangheili "Elite" alien from the Halo franchise. The mod features a white "Ultra" Elite from Halo: Reach and contrasts with the "Ultramarine" faction in Space Marine. Currently, the mod is not widely available for public use.
Microsoft is Officially Rebuilding Windows 11 Again to Satisfy Users
Winsage
April 25, 2026

Microsoft is Officially Rebuilding Windows 11 Again to Satisfy Users

Microsoft is committed to improving Windows 11 based on consumer feedback, particularly from Windows Insiders. The company has formed a team of product experts to enhance the Windows experience and is actively reviewing feedback from testers. A highly requested feature, a movable taskbar, is confirmed to be in development and has been showcased in recent preview builds. Microsoft plans to implement changes influenced by user input, with a focus on performance, reliability, user-friendliness, and overall experience, including significant updates expected in 2026. Anticipated enhancements include redesigning legacy interfaces, improving multitasking, expanding Virtual Desktop customization, allowing taskbar and Start menu resizing, introducing a faster File Explorer, creating a cleaner Notification Center, reducing reboots during updates, offering flexible update pause controls, and minimizing upsell prompts during setup. The company emphasizes a renewed focus on stability and responsiveness driven by user feedback.
Epic keeps jamming more incredible shotguns into Fortnite, and it might be the best meta ever
AppWizard
April 25, 2026

Epic keeps jamming more incredible shotguns into Fortnite, and it might be the best meta ever

In Fortnite Chapter 7 Season 2, the shotgun category has expanded to four options: the Chaos Reloader, Iron Pump, Super Shredder, and Dual Hammer. The Chaos Reloader delivers 150 damage per shot but requires precision and careful management of reload time. The Iron Pump has a 2x headshot multiplier but lower body damage per second. The Super Shredder is versatile but complicates close-range engagements due to its aiming requirement. The Dual Hammer, while consistent, lacks one-shot power against agile opponents. This season emphasizes diverse weapon choices and playstyles, enhancing gameplay variety and strategic loadout decisions. The introduction of SMGs further enriches the loot pool, making shotgun selection crucial for individual and team dynamics.
Assassin's Creed producer assures fans 'there WILL be blood' in the Black Flag remake, and it won't be DLC
AppWizard
April 25, 2026

Assassin’s Creed producer assures fans ‘there WILL be blood’ in the Black Flag remake, and it won’t be DLC

Producer Justin Ng from Ubisoft Singapore confirmed that blood will be included in the final version of Assassin's Creed: Black Flag Resynced and will not be part of paid downloadable content (DLC). He acknowledged feedback regarding visual effects and audio cues during combat, stating that these elements are being toned down. Ng emphasized that the game's essence remains intact, responding to fans' concerns about the absence of visceral gameplay elements.
Puzzle Adventure Game D-topia Arrives July 2026 on PC & Consoles
AppWizard
April 25, 2026

Puzzle Adventure Game D-topia Arrives July 2026 on PC & Consoles

Developer Marumittu Games and publisher Annapurna Interactive will launch the adventure puzzle game D-topia on July 14, 2026, for PC and consoles. Players will take on the role of a Facilitator in a world governed by artificial intelligence, tasked with maintaining daily life and troubleshooting system failures. The game features gentle-paced exploration, intricate logic puzzles, and interactions with residents, allowing players to shape their futures. Choices made by players will impact the community's happiness and address both mechanical and emotional needs. D-topia explores themes of happiness and fulfillment in an AI-managed society.
A minor Fallout: New Vegas quest got its own ending slide because the team was transfixed by the choice where you make the NCR's worst soldiers take Psycho
AppWizard
April 25, 2026

A minor Fallout: New Vegas quest got its own ending slide because the team was transfixed by the choice where you make the NCR’s worst soldiers take Psycho

Josh Sawyer, design director at Obsidian, discussed the subjective criteria for selecting quests that receive ending slides in their RPGs, with the game's director making the final decision. Individual designers rarely advocate for their own quests to be included. He highlighted the quest "Flags of Our Foul-Ups," where NCR soldiers face dire consequences due to their incompetence. Players can use various skills or the fictional stimulant "Psycho" to influence the outcome. The team concluded that using Psycho could lead to chaos and war crimes, prompting the inclusion of ending slides that detail the soldiers' grim fate. Sawyer emphasized the importance of capturing major narrative beats in these slides, while also acknowledging the logistical challenges of creating them, including time limits and the need to illustrate and record multiple endings for companions.
This beautifully colorful new factory building game just released with mod support to 'overwhelmingly positive' reviews
AppWizard
April 25, 2026

This beautifully colorful new factory building game just released with mod support to ‘overwhelmingly positive’ reviews

Shapez 2 - Factory has officially launched after 18 months in early access, receiving 94% positive reviews. It is compatible with MacOS, and the developers clarified that issues may arise from the user's machine. The game is a sequel to its predecessor and features a 3D experience, distinguishing itself in the factory simulation genre with intuitive controls and engaging gameplay. It sold 150,000 copies within the first three days of early access and includes mod support in its 1.0 release. The game is priced at .99, currently discounted by 20% until May 7, after which the price will increase to .99.
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