Accessories Archives

BetaBeacon

June 28, 2025

Lilbits: Microsoft is replacing the Blue Screen of Death with a Black one, extensions are coming to Chrome for Android (kind of), and an NES emulator that lets you play classic games in 3D

Most Windows computers have become less crash-prone over the years, but Microsoft still displays a "Blue Screen of Death" when crashes occur. Microsoft is planning to update the crash screen by changing the background from blue to black and providing more useful information to help users understand why their PC stopped working.

AppWizard

June 27, 2025

The Steam Summer Sale Is Officially Live With New PC Gaming Deals for 2025

The Steam Summer Sale is running until July 10, offering significant discounts on a variety of PC games. Notable deals include Final Fantasy VII Rebirth for .99, a Twin Pack of Final Fantasy VII Remake for .99, and Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered at a 20% discount. Other highlighted indie titles from 2025 are R.E.P.O., Schedule I, and Blue Prince. Major discounts include Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Wars Battlefront II, each reduced by 90%. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is also available at its lowest price. Amazon Prime Day starts on July 8, offering deals on PC hardware and free PC games for Prime members.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

With 114 days left until Windows 10 support is ditched, Windows 11 enjoys a last-minute surge in upgrades

Microsoft plans to discontinue support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, despite a strong preference for it among users. As of June 2025, Windows 10's market share dropped from 66% to 49%, while Windows 11's share increased from 29% to over 47%. The gap between the two operating systems has narrowed to 1%. Microsoft has implemented full-screen reminders to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11, branding 2025 as the "year of the Windows 11 PC refresh." Windows 11 adoption has increased, but many PCs are unable to upgrade due to stringent minimum system requirements, which include a 64-bit processor, at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and TPM version 2.0. Microsoft introduced a new category of Windows 11 PCs called Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced capabilities and security measures. Starting October 14, 2025, users on Windows 10 will not receive free updates, leaving them vulnerable to security risks. Users whose PCs do not meet the requirements for Windows 11 can either buy new machines or subscribe to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued support. Enterprise users will pay £48 for the first year of ESU, increasing to £192 for the third year, while consumers can access it for £24 for an additional year. Some users are exploring alternatives like Linux or ChromeOS Flex for older hardware.

AppWizard

June 22, 2025

This Android App Boosts Your Phone — And Google Just Made It Official

Google has introduced the Linux Terminal app with the Android 15 update, allowing users to run a Debian virtual machine on their smartphones. This feature utilizes the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF) to execute complex commands, run scripts, and manage storage, enhancing smartphone functionality. Activation is simple through developer options, making it accessible to all users. The Linux Terminal serves as a valuable tool for professionals and developers, enabling them to work efficiently on the go. Casual users can also benefit by running Linux-based applications directly on their devices. The upcoming Android 16 is expected to further enhance this experience with better support for external displays, positioning Android phones as central components of users' tech ecosystems.

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

Xbox inks hardware agreement with AMD

Microsoft has entered into a hardware agreement with AMD to co-engineer silicon for future Xbox consoles and cloud-based technologies. This strategic multi-year partnership aims to enhance gaming technology, improve graphics innovation, and ensure compatibility with existing Xbox game libraries. The collaboration focuses on creating a versatile gaming platform that allows players to access games across multiple devices without being restricted to a single storefront. Microsoft is also working with the Windows team to position Windows as the leading platform for gaming.

BetaBeacon

June 17, 2025

Nintendo is banning Switch 2 users for piracy, even if they’re just backing up their games

Nintendo is cracking down on piracy on its Switch 2 consoles by issuing bans to users who use MIG flash carts to load games.

BetaBeacon

June 13, 2025

The Best Mobile Gaming Controllers for iPhone and Android

There are two main types of mobile gaming controllers: grip and standard. Grip controllers are designed to be more portable while providing a familiar gaming experience with physical buttons, joysticks, and triggers. Standard gaming controllers, like those used with Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo consoles, can also be used with mobile devices.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

ROG Xbox Ally handheld gaming devices are real and will be released during the 2025 holiday season

Microsoft unveiled its collaboration with ASUS’ ROG division, introducing the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld gaming devices. Pricing details have not been disclosed, but they are expected to be similar to current ROG Ally systems, with the ROG Ally X potentially reaching up to 0. The devices will launch this holiday season in countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United States. All games showcased will be playable on the Xbox Ally, although it is unclear if all titles will run natively. Users can play games from various platforms, including Battle.net, Steam, GOG, and Ubisoft Connect, with integration of Game Pass and Xbox Play Anywhere. The handhelds feature a full-screen Xbox user interface and include accessibility features from Xbox consoles and PCs. Both models run on Windows 11, with the Xbox Ally equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage, while the Xbox Ally X has an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. They share a seven-inch 1080p display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits of brightness, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The Xbox Ally weighs 670g and the Xbox Ally X weighs 715g, with dimensions of 290.8 x 121.5 x 50.7mm. Both support video output through two USB-C ports, with the Xbox Ally X featuring a ThunderBolt 4 compatible port.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Microsoft Finally Gets Into the Handheld Game With ROG Xbox Ally

Microsoft unveiled its new handheld gaming consoles, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, during the Summer Game Fest on June 8. Both models feature a design resembling a pair of controllers attached to a wide screen and are expected to launch this holiday season. They will operate on Windows 11 and allow for gaming through remote play, cloud gaming, or directly on the device, providing access to a wide range of PC games and popular applications. Initial impressions of the consoles have been positive, with reports highlighting their comfortable design and gameplay experience. Microsoft aims to compete with existing handheld devices like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, and the Ally will debut with popular titles, including Roblox.

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Microsoft agrees that USB is a mess and it’s making changes to fix it: ‘Manufacturers can implement ports that look identical but differ wildly in functionality’

Microsoft is implementing new standards to enhance the reliability of USB connections, particularly for devices that comply with the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP). All WHCP-compliant hardware with USB Type-C must use USB-IF-certified silicon, ensuring efficient charging and support for DisplayPort Alt-Mode for additional monitors. USB4 certification requires a maximum data speed of 40 Gbps, up to 15 W of power for accessories, support for dual 4K displays at 60 Hz, and compatibility with PCIe and Thunderbolt 3. Testing is conducted through Microsoft's Hardware Lab Kit (HLK), and certification is paused if issues arise during testing. This initiative aims to clarify USB Type-C port capabilities and improve consumer confidence in WHCP-certified devices.