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OWC MacDrive 12– One Solution for Complete Mac Disk Access on Windows
Winsage
April 18, 2026

OWC MacDrive 12– One Solution for Complete Mac Disk Access on Windows

OWC has launched MacDrive 12, which allows Windows users to access various Mac formats such as HFS+, APFS, APFS Encrypted, SoftRAID, and Apple RAID through Windows Explorer. Key features include full read/write access to Mac formats, disk management tools for creating and repairing Mac disks, professional performance for demanding tasks, native integration with Windows, enterprise-grade security for encrypted volumes, RAID array support, and advanced APFS crash protection. Use cases include support for creative professionals, production companies, business users, IT administrators, data recovery specialists, and remote teams. MacDrive 12 will be available at the end of April for .99, with upgrade pricing for existing users at .99.
Portal 2: Community Edition promises to take the game's modding potential to new heights, and it's out in open beta now
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Portal 2: Community Edition promises to take the game’s modding potential to new heights, and it’s out in open beta now

Portal 2 has approximately one million user-generated levels available on its Steam Workshop. The recently released Portal 2: Community Edition is in open beta and is a community-maintained build that enhances the existing experience without overhauling the core gameplay. New features include new lighting technology, volumetric effects, support for more detailed textures, custom campaign support, expanded scripting capabilities, and an improved Hammer map editor. Community Edition is built on Strata Source, a fork of the CS:GO engine, and has already inspired innovative mods. The mod's workshop page includes Half-Life 2 maps, enhanced texture assets, and an original puzzle titled Lesbian Kissing. The team is also working on an original campaign for the mod.
We owe Fallout to an admiral and his officers teaching its designer to play D&D in 1979
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

We owe Fallout to an admiral and his officers teaching its designer to play D&D in 1979

Tim Cain, a veteran RPG designer known for the Fallout series, shared his first experience with Dungeons & Dragons during the Carter administration, guided by his mother’s colleagues in the U.S. Navy. He contrasted this experience with modern gaming, noting that players starting on computers lack the direct interaction that comes with a Dungeon Master. Cain was captivated by the novelty of polyhedral dice and expressed excitement about the game. His mother supported his interest by suggesting a stop at a game store, leading him to acquire the AD&D Monster Manual and a boxed set. This engagement with D&D significantly influenced his career, particularly his expertise in the 2E AD&D's THAC0 system, which helped him secure a position at Interplay and lead the development of The Temple of Elemental Evil. His introduction to tabletop roleplaying was facilitated by a DM known as “Captain Dave,” whose influence extended to Cain's later work in game development.
France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here's why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026
Winsage
April 18, 2026

France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here’s why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026

Dissatisfaction with Windows 11 is widespread, prompting the French government to transition from Windows to Linux for its computer systems, aiming for 'digital sovereignty.' French officials, including Minister David Amiel, emphasize the need to reduce reliance on American tools and regain control over digital infrastructure. The transition is mandated to be completed by fall 2026, with GendBuntu, a variant of Ubuntu, likely being adopted. Over 100,000 PCs currently run GendBuntu, and an additional 2.5 million government workstations will migrate from Windows. Other regions, such as Schleswig-Holstein in Germany and Denmark, are also moving away from Windows. Users have reported issues with Windows 11, leading to a backlash and prompting Microsoft to promise fixes. However, the effectiveness of these improvements remains uncertain, and if unresolved, users may increasingly consider alternatives like Linux or macOS. Microsoft has revamped its Windows Insider program to gather user feedback but lacks clarity on internal quality assurance improvements. The company's ability to regain user trust hinges on addressing ongoing concerns effectively.
5 Android Auto settings I always change on any new Android phone
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

5 Android Auto settings I always change on any new Android phone

Android Auto has become a popular tool for drivers, supporting both wired and wireless connections in vehicles. Google regularly updates the platform, adding features like Google Meet support. Users can enhance their experience by adjusting settings, such as disabling auto-play for music when connecting, managing notifications from apps like YouTube Music and Spotify, preventing Android Auto from starting automatically, setting up shortcuts for Google Assistant commands, and enabling quick controls for music playback from the taskbar.
Gemini app bug removes features, reverts UI on Android
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Gemini app bug removes features, reverts UI on Android

A bug in the Gemini app has led to the removal of several features, including the ability to upload NotebookLM notebooks via the ‘plus’ menu, the disappearance of the “Temporary chat” button, and the option to “Import memory to Gemini” from the profile menu. The app's design has reverted to side-by-side pills from a list format, and the background color has changed from black to gray, affecting the visual experience. Android users have also experienced a return to a previous overlay design that limits access to the Tools menu, and the fullscreen glow effect has been removed. This issue is affecting users across both stable and beta channels with Google app version 17.14, and a server-side fix is expected to restore the lost functionalities. The Gemini web platform remains unaffected.
Last Flag, the debut game from the studio founded by Imagine Dragons' lead singer, becomes the latest multiplayer shooter struggling to find an audience
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Last Flag, the debut game from the studio founded by Imagine Dragons’ lead singer, becomes the latest multiplayer shooter struggling to find an audience

In 2026, attracting players to new multiplayer shooters has proven to be a significant challenge. Highguard experienced a decline in player engagement, fading from the scene within three months. Marathon, despite its high budget of 0 million, is struggling to justify its costs. Last Flag, a 5v5 multiplayer shooter developed by Night Street Games and co-founded by members of Imagine Dragons, launched on April 14 to a peak of fewer than 600 concurrent players, which has since dropped to just under 400. Despite a competitive price and a marketing push, the game has faced criticism for having bot-filled matches and a visual style reminiscent of Fortnite. Night Street Games is focused on building a sustainable community and is currently offering a free weekend on Steam to attract players. Mac Reynolds highlighted the difficulties of fundraising in 2026, indicating challenges for studios in maintaining operational viability.
BAFTA pulls game trailer over 'themes that may be a trigger' even after developer revision
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

BAFTA pulls game trailer over ‘themes that may be a trigger’ even after developer revision

Alyx Jones, founder of Silver Script Games, had the trailer for her upcoming game, The Quiet Things, pulled from the BAFTA awards due to its sensitive content. BAFTA stated the decision was made to protect guests from potentially triggering themes without sufficient warning. The trailer, which explores themes of abuse and trauma, is now available on YouTube and is described as less shocking than some other recent games. Jones emphasized the personal significance of her work, highlighting its focus on trauma, survival, and giving a voice to survivors.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
April 18, 2026

“A solid list from the community,” as Reddit users highlight 10 open‑source apps that run great on Windows 11 and deserve more attention

Open-source software is becoming increasingly popular among Windows 11 users for its control, privacy, and avoidance of subscription models. Key applications highlighted include: - Firefox: A recommended open-source browser known for its privacy, customization, and performance, with robust extension support and regular updates. - Bitwarden: An open-source password manager that offers encrypted vault syncing across devices, end-to-end encryption, and features like password generation and autofill. - OBS Studio: A standard tool for screen recording and live streaming, praised for its flexibility and hardware acceleration support on Windows 11. - LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite that provides document, spreadsheet, and presentation tools without subscription fees, supporting common Microsoft Office file formats. - 7-Zip: A file compression utility recognized for its speed and efficiency, offering enhanced security features not present in Windows 11's built-in archive support. - LocalSend: A file transfer tool that allows secure transfers over a local network without needing accounts or cloud services. - GIMP: An open-source image editing tool regarded as an alternative to Photoshop, known for its flexibility and extensive customization options. - Blender: An advanced open-source application for 3D modeling, animation, and video editing, benefiting from strong GPU acceleration on Windows 11. - PowerToys: A suite of productivity utilities for Windows 11 that enhances core features with tools like FancyZones and PowerRename. These applications are favored for their ability to enhance the user experience while prioritizing control, transparency, and long-term usability.
TotalAV Keeps Prices Low While Covering the Basics of Online Protection
Tech Optimizer
April 18, 2026

TotalAV Keeps Prices Low While Covering the Basics of Online Protection

TotalAV, founded in 2016, offers a competitive antivirus solution with an entry-level plan aimed at users seeking essential coverage at a reasonable price. Its features include real-time malware scanning, a browser extension called WebShield for blocking dangerous links, a system cleanup tool, and a basic password vault. The Android app is user-friendly, while the iOS version provides limited features due to Apple's restrictions. TotalAV includes a VPN with a daily data cap and effective phishing protection through its WebShield feature. Renewal costs can increase significantly after the first year, and independent lab testing of TotalAV is less frequent compared to competitors like Bitdefender and Kaspersky.
After 23 years, CCP is about to do the unthinkable: add a non-PvP zone to EVE Online
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

After 23 years, CCP is about to do the unthinkable: add a non-PvP zone to EVE Online

EVE Online is introducing a new non-PvP zone called Exordium, aimed at providing a welcoming entry point for new players. This zone will allow rookies to begin their journey in a space designed specifically for them, with PvP against inexperienced players discouraged and rookie griefing prohibited. Exordium is set to open for exploration ahead of EVE Fanfest in May, with a full rollout expected during the summer.
Help! The Millennium Bug made all the robots in my mansion go berserk, and only Homer Simpson can save the day
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Help! The Millennium Bug made all the robots in my mansion go berserk, and only Homer Simpson can save the day

Y2K: The Game is a PC game that pays homage to the Millennium Bug, reflecting the concerns of the late 1990s regarding technology. The game features a character named Buster, whose slow pacing has drawn criticism. Its soundtrack includes eclectic melodies, adding to its quirky charm. Despite not fully realizing its premise, the game is considered an intriguing relic of its time.
15 years on, Portal 2 Community Edition just breathed new life into Valve's classic
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

15 years on, Portal 2 Community Edition just breathed new life into Valve’s classic

Portal 2: Community Edition is a fan-driven initiative developed by a team of 29 developers to enhance the experience of creating and playing custom content within Portal 2. It introduces technical upgrades including physically based rendering, more detailed textures, improved lighting, clustered shading, dynamic shadows, specular highlights, and volumetric fog. The edition focuses on providing robust tools for custom content creation, currently offering single-player gameplay with plans for multiplayer support. It utilizes the Strata Source engine, a modified version of the CS:GO engine, which enhances performance and expands creative possibilities for modders. New modding tools include adhesive gel, a paint gun, Schrödinger cubes, and colored lasers, along with the 'AngelScript' scripting framework for unique game modes. Full Steam Workshop support is integrated, allowing players to share their creations. Portal 2: Community Edition is now available on Steam as a free download, requiring ownership of the original Portal 2.
How I got 2 Microsoft job offers at once after more than 50 rejections
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

How I got 2 Microsoft job offers at once after more than 50 rejections

Business Insider focuses on innovative narratives in business journalism, highlighting emerging trends and the intricacies of the business world. It provides insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders through creative storytelling that blends factual reporting with a narrative style. The publication explores cutting-edge technologies, profiles visionary leaders, and analyzes economic trends and their implications for businesses.
I've found a Dark Messiah-inspired action sandbox where you can make banana spike traps and possess enemies to walk off cliffs, and I need it now
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

I’ve found a Dark Messiah-inspired action sandbox where you can make banana spike traps and possess enemies to walk off cliffs, and I need it now

The Adventures of Sir Kicksalot is a sandbox action game developed by Stéphane Le Roy, featuring a core mechanic centered around kicking. Players can engage in various creative interactions, such as using nets to ensnare enemies, returning thrown spears, and employing dark humor tactics like luring foes to slip on banana peels. The demo showcases dismemberment mechanics and a sandbox environment that encourages exploration and experimentation. Players can level up and unlock new skills, although some melee attacks feel less impactful than expected. The game is set to be released on May 15.
Here's that free fan remake of 1999's PlayStation-exclusive Medal of Honor you were looking for
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Here’s that free fan remake of 1999’s PlayStation-exclusive Medal of Honor you were looking for

Medal of Honor: Allied Assault is a pioneering title in the first-person shooter genre, released before Halo and initially on the PlayStation. The game has been revived with Medal of Honor: Retro Remake, developed by Elber88, which faithfully reconstructs the original 1999 title and is available for free on itch.io. The remake offers a simple installation process for players to easily access the game.
The BAFTA Games Awards pulls indie game's trailer at the last minute, citing "the wellbeing of all guests"
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

The BAFTA Games Awards pulls indie game’s trailer at the last minute, citing “the wellbeing of all guests”

Alyx Jones, founder of Silver Script Games, expressed disappointment after BAFTA withdrew the trailer for her indie adventure game, The Quiet Things, from its showcase due to sensitive content. The game is an autobiographical narrative about a fractured childhood in the South of England, addressing themes of abuse, self-harm, suicide, and sexual assault. Despite revising the trailer to mitigate concerns, Jones was informed there wasn't enough time to add appropriate warnings. BAFTA stated the decision was made to prioritize the wellbeing of guests, as the trailer contained potentially triggering themes. The Quiet Things is scheduled for release on June 4, and a free demo is available on Steam. Jones is seeking community support to increase the game's visibility following the withdrawal of the trailer.
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