AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Steam's latest Client Beta patch notes introduce a feature that allows reviewers to include their system specifications with their reviews. This aims to enhance transparency and help potential buyers understand how hardware differences may affect gameplay experiences. Previously, reviewers had to voluntarily disclose their system specs, which was uncommon. The new feature will enable users to see a reviewer's hardware, aiding in the assessment of performance issues. It is unclear whether Steam will use its Hardware Survey data to auto-populate user specifications or if users will need to input their components manually. The feature will be optional, allowing users to keep their hardware details private if desired.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Bungie's new title, Marathon, will launch on March 5, marking the company's first release outside the Destiny universe in over a decade. Players will have the option to disable cross-platform matchmaking, allowing PS5 and Xbox Series X/S users to avoid competing against PC players. Marathon will feature a mix of PvP, PvE, and PvPvE gameplay elements, but will not use matchmaking strategies from other titles like Arc Raiders. A server slam is scheduled for February 26 to preview the game. Sony has received positive feedback from playtests, which has informed adjustments to improve the game before its release.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
4Loop is a new co-op shooter developed by Bad Robot Games, led by Mike Booth, known for Left 4 Dead. The game features a roguelite structure with tactical maps made up of interconnected nodes for missions, which require at least one player to survive to advance. Players can vote on objectives, and missions include tasks like rescuing hostages or harvesting resources. The game encourages creative tactics against AI opponents, utilizing features like portals and invisibility. A notable boss encounter involves navigating a dynamic obstacle course of lasers. The game is currently in pre-beta, with upcoming playtests planned, and will launch on PC and PS5. Specific release dates have not been announced.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Ubisoft has launched Just Dance 2025 Edition and Just Dance VR: Welcome to Dancity, featuring an extensive song list and enhanced experiences with Meta Quest headsets. They have released a chronological guide for the Assassin’s Creed series to help players understand character connections and the overarching storyline. Ubisoft is celebrating the 35th anniversary of Prince of Persia with insights from series creator Jordan Mechner and others. Additionally, the post-launch roadmap for Star Wars Outlaws™ includes two new story packs, an exclusive mission, and various cosmetic items.
Winsage
February 13, 2026
Microsoft has announced its intention to reinstate movable and resizable Taskbar options in Windows 11. This decision has generated mixed reactions from the community, with some users expressing enthusiasm and others skepticism regarding the delay in reintroducing these features. Long-time Windows users view the return of Taskbar customization as a restoration rather than an innovation. Comments on platforms like Reddit reflect frustration over the perception that restoring these features is a significant undertaking, with some users questioning why it wasn't addressed sooner.
Winsage
February 13, 2026
Windows 10 is an unsupported operating system, making it vulnerable to cybercriminals. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for enhanced security features such as remote desktop access, BitLocker device encryption, and Hyper-V. The upgrade costs .97, which is a discounted price from its regular MSRP of 9. Windows 11 Pro also includes productivity tools like snap layouts and an AI assistant called Copilot, powered by GPT-4. Upon purchase, users receive an email with a download link and activation code for installation. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro provides robust defenses and enterprise-level encryption to protect data.
Tech Optimizer
February 13, 2026
In January 2004, the MyDoom computer worm quickly spread to email inboxes in 168 countries, becoming one of the fastest-spreading pieces of malware in internet history. It exploited human behavior by enticing users to open email attachments that appeared to be delivery errors or system notifications. MyDoom replicated itself through email without corrupting files or destroying data, harvesting email addresses from infected computers to send copies to new victims. The two main variants, MyDoom.A and MyDoom.B, targeted the SCO Group and Microsoft, respectively, and demonstrated the potential for email worms to be weaponized for coordinated attacks. MyDoom primarily targeted Windows-based operating systems and used deceptive emails to propagate. Once infected, it installed a backdoor for unauthorized remote access, forming a botnet for further attacks. MyDoom's effectiveness was due to its alignment with user behavior and the limited security measures of the time, leading to significant disruptions in email communication and an estimated economic impact of approximately billion. Although no longer a current threat, MyDoom's legacy influenced modern email security protocols, leading to improved filtering, behavior-based detection, and multi-layered defense strategies.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Google Messages has introduced several features, including AI-powered scam detection and the ability to "unsend" messages, which have increased its popularity. The app includes visual status indicators for message delivery: a timer symbol for sending, a single check mark for sent, double check marks for delivered, and color-filled double check marks for read messages (if read receipts are enabled). It also has a typing indicator (three bouncing dots) and a lock symbol for end-to-end encryption. A red exclamation mark indicates message delivery failure. If no symbols are visible (except the red exclamation mark), it may mean RCS advanced chat capabilities are not enabled, reverting conversations to SMS or MMS. Users can check RCS settings in the app.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Russia's internet regulator, Roskomnadzor, has made YouTube inaccessible in the country by removing its domain from the National Domain Name System (NDNS) servers, which prevents direct access without a VPN. YouTube is now blocked along with WhatsApp, as part of a broader crackdown on digital communication tools. The NDNS serves as a government-mandated alternative directory that restricts telecommunications providers to using it exclusively, allowing centralized control over website accessibility. Roskomnadzor has removed 13 domain names from NDNS, including those of international news outlets and social media platforms. A survey indicates that 46% of Russian users utilize VPNs to access YouTube, but 24% still experience connectivity issues. Users report frustration with internet access quality and potential repercussions from government legislation against searching for "extremist material" or using VPNs. Experts warn that reliance on NDNS could limit normal DNS functionality and highlight risks associated with VPN use, including government manipulation of IP addresses. Roskomnadzor cites violations of Russian law to justify its control over platforms like Telegram.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
The Shared Watch event in Arc Raiders allows players to engage in cooperative gameplay focused on defeating Arc, moving away from Candleberry hunts. Players can utilize Seeker Grenades, which were introduced in December, to effectively take down enemies like Wasps and Hornets. Crafting these grenades requires 2x Arc Alloy and 1x Crude Explosives. Bird City is a favorable map for this strategy, as players can lure Snitches and summon additional Arc. Seeker Grenades can be purchased from Apollo if players do not have the blueprint. Encouraging Snitches to summon more Arc increases targets and potential merits for the event.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will be released on PC on March 19. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic Australia and continues the narrative of the original game, with players taking on the role of Sam Porter Bridges. The PC version is developed in collaboration with Nixxes Software and includes several enhancements such as support for NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel Upscaler and FrameGen technologies, uncapped framerates, 4K gaming capabilities, and compatibility with ultrawide monitors. It will also support 3D audio through Dolby Access, DTS Sound Unbound, and Windows Sonic for headphones. Players can choose between mouse and keyboard or DualSense controller for gameplay. Pre-purchases are available on Steam and Epic Games, with early adopters receiving additional in-game items and a Digital Deluxe edition offering extra perks.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Foxhole is an MMO that recently introduced an Airbourne update featuring player-controlled aircraft. The game emphasizes the importance of players not being liabilities and mastering the basics before engaging in combat. A notable event in Foxhole's history involved the Logistics Organisation for General Improvement (LOGI), which staged a 49-day in-game strike to address burdensome resupply processes, leading to a response from the developers. The gameplay includes training drills, a top-down perspective reminiscent of a World War II version of Hotline Miami, and a focus on logistics. Players engage in discussions in global chat and work together on various tasks, such as constructing defenses and providing medical assistance. The game highlights the significance of fulfilling individual roles to support the collective war effort.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
The February 2026 edition of "State of Play" featured several cross-platform announcements, including: - Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 will be available on Xbox Series X/S and PC via Steam starting August 27, 2026, including the release of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. - An untitled AAA John Wick game will be a multiplatform release for Xbox Series X/S and PC, created in collaboration with Keanu Reeves and director Chad Stahelski. - Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse, a new 2D installment, will launch on PC and Xbox Series X/S alongside its PlayStation release. - Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will be released on PC on March 19, 2026, in addition to its PlayStation 5 version. - Additional titles confirmed for Xbox and PC include: - Silent Hill: Townfall, set to launch on PC in 2026. - Beast of Reincarnation, a gothic action-RPG available on Day One Xbox Game Pass on August 4, 2026. - Marathon, an extraction shooter that will support cross-play for PC, Xbox, and PS5.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Google is rolling out an update for Driving Mode on Pixel phones that allows it to trigger automatically when connected to the car's Bluetooth, addressing previous issues where it misfired or failed to activate. The update shifts the activation method from relying solely on motion detection to a Bluetooth-first approach. This feature is included in version 26.05.32 of Google Play Services and can be configured in the Settings app under Modes. Users can choose to activate Driving Mode using either Bluetooth or a combination of motion and Bluetooth.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
ICE Data Services has partnered with FactSet to provide comprehensive market data, enhancing accessibility and reliability for investors and analysts. This collaboration combines the strengths of both organizations, offering a robust suite of reference data and seamless integration of data sources. The partnership is supported by the American Bankers Association and TradingView, emphasizing the importance of reliable data in the financial services industry.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Markus Persson, the creator of Minecraft, has expressed concerns about the rapid integration of generative AI in programming, describing it as an initiative being "forced down our throats" by "evil" entities. He fears losing creative autonomy and control over coding, comparing AI writing code to AI drafting laws. Persson advises aspiring developers to "Learn. Your. Craft," emphasizing the importance of foundational skills in programming. His views align with some industry leaders who advocate for coding literacy as a fundamental skill, while others, like GitHub CEO Thomas Dohmke and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, stress the necessity of mastering AI to remain competitive in the job market.
AppWizard
February 13, 2026
Three fifth-grade students from Beaty Middle School in the Warren County School District, Patrick Ferrie, Bo Winkels, and Grayson Zapel, won the state championship at the Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League Minecraft State Finals on February 6. They secured their place in the finals by winning first in their regional competition, which included schools from 14 counties, and competed against seven other regional champions. The competition required teams to design a Minecraft world themed “Pennsylvania’s Factory of the Future,” focusing on advanced technology, sustainable energy, and the use of Pennsylvania-based materials.
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