NewApp Digest
search bot
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

I checked GOG’s most popular games and found shocking gaps in updates, DLC, languages, soundtracks, and more — 1,140 games are affected with 1,531 issues

GOG has become a popular platform for PC gamers to purchase and manage game collections, emphasizing consumer rights and true game ownership. However, a user-maintained catalog titled "Games that treat GOG customers as 2nd Class," last updated on August 11, 2026, lists 1,140 games with a total of 1,531 reported issues, including missing updates (308), languages (100), free DLC (51), paid DLC (200), features (111), soundtracks (439), builds (278), and region locking (12). Developers and publishers are responsible for the content included in GOG submissions, with Devolver Digital and THQ Nordic GmbH noted for having 29 issues each. GOG's DRM-free requirement and smaller user base compared to Steam contribute to these challenges, leading to concerns about the value of purchasing games that may lack features available on other platforms.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
August 12, 2026

Windows 11 keeps breaking user expectations around browser choice, according to new global research

A survey by the Browser Choice Alliance involving 2,000 U.S. adults reveals significant dissatisfaction with Microsoft's Edge browser. Key findings include: - 86% of respondents believe they should control their default browser, and 80% want a "one-click browser default" option. - 26% currently have Edge as their default browser, but only 19% would choose it if given a free choice. - 72% of those who tried to change their default browser in the past two years faced obstacles, such as Edge being recommended or links opening in Edge. - 29% reported that Windows system updates changed their browser preferences. - Among adults aged 65 and older, 44% found changing their default browser complex, and 61% lacked confidence in the process. - 14% of respondents believe users should not have the ability to choose their default browser. - Microsoft has made changes to enhance user choice only within the EU, ignoring global opportunities. - Tools like MSEdgeRedirect and EdgeDeflector aimed at redirecting links to preferred browsers are now ineffective or limited. - Microsoft announced the discontinuation of support for MV2 extensions, affecting tools like uBlock Origin.
Mid-week Android app deals and freebies: Kingdom Rush 5, Iron Marines 2, 9th Dawn III, more
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

Mid-week Android app deals and freebies: Kingdom Rush 5, Iron Marines 2, 9th Dawn III, more

Pre-orders for the Google Pixel 11 lineup have started, featuring trade-in values up to 0 and 0 Google Store credit. Customers can also receive a 50% discount on the Pixel Watch 5 with their purchase. The Google Pixel 11 starts at 9, the Pixel 11 Pro at 9, the Pixel 11 Pro XL at ,299, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold at ,899, all with trade-in discounts available. Best Buy and Amazon are expected to offer competitive pre-order deals as well. Additionally, several Android apps and games are currently available at reduced prices.
You can now cuddle Helldivers 2's beloved SEAF troopers, though maybe don't do what I did and try it when a Crusher's standing next to you
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

You can now cuddle Helldivers 2’s beloved SEAF troopers, though maybe don’t do what I did and try it when a Crusher’s standing next to you

The SEAF troopers, introduced in the Heart of Democracy update of Helldivers 2, have become popular among players for their perseverance in battling various enemies. The recent Devoid of Liberty update enhances their capabilities, allowing them to provide medical support and boost player morale through gestures like saluting and hugging. SEAF troopers now appear on the battlefield via dropships, equipped with support weapons and increased numbers. New adversaries include void-mutated enemies and the challenging Crusher and Wretch foes, which require players to remain vigilant.
Amazon drops Lost Ark and Throne and Liberty
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

Amazon drops Lost Ark and Throne and Liberty

Amazon is ending its publishing agreements for the games Throne and Liberty and Lost Ark. NCSoft will take over publishing Throne and Liberty for Western markets by late 2026, while Smilegate will assume control of Lost Ark in early 2027. Some user data for Lost Ark, such as in-game mail and friends list memos, will not transfer to the new platform. Amazon is postponing its own MMO, New World, until 2025, and has experienced layoffs affecting the Lost Ark team. The company is shifting its focus to new projects, including Courtroom Chaos Starring Snoop Dogg.
Windows 11 Gets Dynamic File Sizes in File Explorer, Low Latency Profile for Apps, and More
Winsage
August 12, 2026

Windows 11 Gets Dynamic File Sizes in File Explorer, Low Latency Profile for Apps, and More

Microsoft's August update, KB5121003, includes several enhancements: - The File Explorer now displays file sizes in kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), or gigabytes (GB) dynamically, simplifying file management. - The Low Latency Profile is expanded to more applications, improving launch speeds for Microsoft apps like Edge and Outlook by up to 40%, and other system components by up to 70%. - Windows Search has been improved to better handle typos and incomplete queries, prioritizing relevant results and indexing files across the operating system. - The Start Menu now more effectively respects user preferences, ensuring consistent settings.
This free tool lets you run Windows apps on Linux
Winsage
August 12, 2026

This free tool lets you run Windows apps on Linux

Wine allows users to run Windows applications on Linux, but its performance can vary widely among different programs. Some applications may run smoothly, while others might need adjustments or may not work at all. Users are encouraged to consult WineHQ’s AppDB for compatibility ratings and setup tips. There is a learning curve for new Linux users, as some applications may require additional libraries or configurations. Community documentation and guides are available to help users.
After Microsoft threatened legal action, a security researcher publishes a new Windows zero-day bug
Winsage
August 12, 2026

After Microsoft threatened legal action, a security researcher publishes a new Windows zero-day bug

A security researcher named Nightmare Eclipse has discovered a vulnerability in Windows, called ShieldBreak, which allows hackers to gain system-wide access to users' devices and sensitive data by exploiting a flaw in Windows Defender. The vulnerability affects Windows 10, Windows 11 (including version 25H2), and Windows Server 2025. A proof-of-concept exploit has been provided, requiring users to run a Windows application to trigger the vulnerability. Security researcher Will Dormann confirmed that Windows Defender must be enabled for the exploit to work. Microsoft has not yet released a patch for ShieldBreak, which is classified as a zero-day vulnerability. This discovery follows previous vulnerabilities disclosed by Nightmare Eclipse, including RoguePlanet, for which Microsoft issued an inadequate patch. The situation has heightened tensions between the researcher and Microsoft regarding the handling of bug reports, especially after Microsoft threatened legal action against researchers disclosing zero-days outside established protocols. The disclosure of ShieldBreak occurred shortly after Microsoft's monthly security patch releases, which have been increasing in number.
"Windows undermines user expectations": Survey shows Windows 11 keeps complicating basic browser choices
Winsage
August 12, 2026

“Windows undermines user expectations”: Survey shows Windows 11 keeps complicating basic browser choices

A survey conducted by the Browser Choice Alliance, involving 2,000 adults in the U.S., reveals concerns about Microsoft's Edge browser and the difficulties users face when trying to change their default browser on Windows 11. The survey highlights that altering the default browser only affects specific file types, and fully disabling Edge remains challenging. Tools like MSEdgeRedirect and EdgeDeflector have become less effective, impacting Microsoft's reputation. Many users are skeptical of Microsoft's claim that using Edge for widgets and system components enhances the experience. Additionally, the discontinuation of support for MV2 extensions may force users of popular tools like uBlock Origin to seek alternatives. Overall, the survey indicates that switching browsers is more complicated than it should be, creating a restrictive environment for users.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

Sharing between Pixel phones just got a whole lot simpler

Google has introduced a feature for compatible Pixel phones that allows users to share contacts, photos, videos, and more by bringing two devices close together. This feature enables two-way contact exchange directly from the home screen and simplifies media sharing through the Share Sheet. It is available for Pixel 6 and newer models, with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8 to follow soon. Google plans to expand this tap-to-share feature to a broader range of Android devices by the end of the year.
Google makes Circle to Search easier to use by putting it directly in the Pixel Camera
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

Google makes Circle to Search easier to use by putting it directly in the Pixel Camera

Google has integrated the Circle to Search feature into its Pixel Camera app, available on the upcoming Pixel 11 series. This feature allows users to search for information by pointing their device at an object or text without needing to take a photograph first. Users can activate it by holding the home bar, enabling them to identify objects, translate text, and zoom in on distant items while remaining in the camera interface. Google has not confirmed whether this feature will be available on older Pixel models.
Google’s Android chief lays out his vision for how AI will change our smartphones
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

Google’s Android chief lays out his vision for how AI will change our smartphones

Google introduced new features in its Pixel 11 Pro smartphone, including a light that indicates when its Gemini AI is processing commands and a forthcoming Android feature named Halo that provides real-time updates on AI task progress. The company aims to reduce the need for users to micromanage their devices by allowing AI to handle routine tasks, such as scheduling appointments. Google anticipates consumer needs three years ahead in its Android development, focusing on how AI can enhance user experience. Other companies, like Samsung and Apple, are also investing in AI integration, with Apple planning to revamp Siri for better functionality. Despite advancements, there is growing consumer skepticism about AI, with 79% of Americans expressing distrust in businesses to use AI responsibly.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
August 12, 2026

Non-linear ghost story adventure game Remaining Grace announced for PC

ambedo studios, led by Quintin Pan, is developing a non-linear ghost story adventure game titled Remaining Grace, set to release on PC and Mac via Steam. The game explores themes of chosen family and human connections through the narrative of Grace Tao and spans three distinct time periods. Players will experience the story through a diverse cast, unraveling the mystery of Grace's death and her relationships with various characters, including her immigrant parents and childhood friends. The game features a unique pencil sketch art style and is set in an alternate-history version of North America called Turtle Island, where colonization never occurred. A trailer and screenshots for the game have been released.
Dave the Diver gets an Android and iOS release date (and a new Heartopia crossover)
BetaBeacon
August 12, 2026

Dave the Diver gets an Android and iOS release date (and a new Heartopia crossover)

Dave the Diver, a popular game character, is set to be released on Android and iOS devices on September 17. Two DLC packs will be available at launch, with additional content to enhance the gaming experience. Gyro controls for tea making and fast travel in the Sea People's Village will be included in the mobile version. Dave will also make a special appearance in a crossover event with the game Heartopia.
Microsoft shares details of a clever old Windows trick it no longer needs
Winsage
August 12, 2026

Microsoft shares details of a clever old Windows trick it no longer needs

Microsoft's WINSTART.BAT file is a batch file that predates Windows 95 and was documented in the Windows 3.1 Resource Kit. Its primary function is to load terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR) programs for use by Windows applications, while these TSRs are not accessible to individual MS-DOS virtual machines. WINSTART.BAT is executed after the virtual machine manager (VMM) initializes, giving it an advantage over AUTOEXEC.BAT, which runs during the MS-DOS startup phase. TSRs loaded via AUTOEXEC.BAT are available to both Windows and MS-DOS environments, while those loaded through WINSTART.BAT are limited to Windows applications only.
Microsoft says Windows 11 KB5101684 makes your PC more reliable, especially on devices with low amounts of system memory: PCs with 8GB RAM or less should feel more responsive
Winsage
August 12, 2026

Microsoft says Windows 11 KB5101684 makes your PC more reliable, especially on devices with low amounts of system memory: PCs with 8GB RAM or less should feel more responsive

Microsoft rolled out updates for Windows 11, including versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1, which feature performance enhancements and reliability upgrades. The KB5101684 update improves the reliability of explorer.exe, speeds up access to Jump Lists and recent files, and streamlines file sharing and desktop switching via Task View. The Start menu and Taskbar will respond more quickly upon startup, and the resource intensity of the post-update process has been reduced, leading to improved immediate performance after installation. These upgrades benefit users regardless of their system's RAM capacity, with a focus on optimizing performance for systems with 8GB of RAM.
5 Easy Ways to Install Python on Windows
Winsage
August 12, 2026

5 Easy Ways to Install Python on Windows

Installing Python has become more user-friendly, allowing installation on Windows, Linux, and macOS with simple commands. 1. Python Install Manager: Available via the Microsoft Store, it allows users to manage installations from PowerShell. To install, search for Python Install Manager in the Microsoft Store and run PLACEHOLDER4e979dce7860e252 to check the installation. For explicit installations, use PLACEHOLDER0eeddca4a1021d92 or specify a version like py install 3.14. 2. WinGet: A command-line tool for Windows Package Manager that enables installation from the terminal. Use PLACEHOLDER17cbf64bbdc226c5 to install Python and verify with PLACEHOLDER710d6197b454a541. 3. uv: A modern package manager that installs Python versions and manages virtual environments. Install it using the command PLACEHOLDERe2ebbf4877927de2 and then use PLACEHOLDERd5ce82eeb891b087 for the latest version or uv python install 3.14 for a specific version. 4. Miniconda: A lightweight alternative for managing packages and environments, particularly in data science. Download the Miniconda installer, check the Conda version with PLACEHOLDERee2f8e325b0fd186, create an environment with PLACEHOLDERe030ebd8e75a94c8, and activate it with py install0. 5. Python.org Installer: The traditional method involves downloading the installer from Python.org. After installation, verify with PLACEHOLDER385f0117bffc41e2 and use pip for package installations with PLACEHOLDER4d165d7f4e323fa1. This method may be phased out in future releases. For beginners, the Python Install Manager is recommended, while experienced users may prefer uv for its comprehensive features.
Search