additions Archives

Winsage

March 26, 2026

Wine 11 might be the tipping point that finally pushes gamers from Windows to Linux

The latest release of Wine, version 11, introduces a feature called NTSYNC, a kernel driver that enhances performance for Windows games running on Linux, achieving performance gains of up to 678%. This is accomplished through a new device, /dev/ntsync, which allows the Linux kernel to handle thread synchronization natively, replacing the previous Remote Procedure Call method. Wine 11 also completes the WoW64 implementation, enabling seamless running of both 32- and 64-bit games without multilib libraries. Other enhancements include improvements to the Wayland driver, EGL as the default backend for OpenGL rendering, initial support for hardware-accelerated H.264 decoding, improved force feedback support, a new Bluetooth driver, support for Zip64 compression, Unicode 17.0.0 support, TWAIN 2.0 scanning for 64-bit apps, and IPv6 ping functionality. Wine 11 is available in most Linux distributions' default repositories, except for Ubuntu 24.04, which lacks the necessary kernel support.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

A cleaner, unified Gemini interface could be coming to your Android phone

Google is testing enhancements for the Gemini Android app to replicate the user-friendly interface of its web version, including a "Settings & help" menu. The latest beta release, version 17.11.54, features a user interface similar to the mobile web version, with planned additions like "Scheduled actions," "My stuff," and a new Notebooks section. Gemini will also show the last-used extension in the query header and may relocate the model switcher to the app header to declutter the input field. Updated icons for the feedback row are also being introduced.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Tiny Takeover now live in Minecraft

The Tiny Takeover update in Minecraft introduces over three dozen baby mobs for players to collect and nurture. Players can craft name tags to personalize their experience and use golden dandelions to keep the baby mobs youthful. The update is available for both Bedrock and Java Editions at no cost. An infographic is provided to showcase the new baby mobs and features.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Cyber actors linked to Russia target messaging app users, FBI warns

The United States has issued a warning about cyber actors linked to Russian intelligence targeting users of commercial messaging applications, particularly Signal, compromising thousands of accounts worldwide. The FBI and CISA released a public service announcement detailing the operation's focus on individuals of “high intelligence value,” including U.S. government officials, military personnel, political figures, and journalists. Attackers have not breached the encryption of these platforms but manipulate users into disclosing credentials or linking devices. Russian intelligence-linked actors often pose as official support accounts, creating urgency to obtain security codes. Dutch intelligence agencies also reported a similar campaign targeting Signal and WhatsApp accounts of dignitaries and military personnel. Users are urged to be cautious of suspicious messages and to avoid sharing personal information. Signal reaffirmed that its encryption remains intact, emphasizing that vulnerabilities arise from user behavior rather than technical flaws in the application itself.

AppWizard

March 20, 2026

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach PC impressions

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach features themes of connection, grief, and the transient nature of existence, set in Australia and linked to the Chiral Network. The game is noted for its engaging gameplay and visual capabilities, with performance tests showing around 60 fps in demanding environments on high settings with an RTX 4070 Ti and Intel Core i9-12900K. Lowering settings can yield up to 94 fps, while enabling frame generation can surpass 126 fps. PICO upscaling combined with DLSS frame generation provides optimal visuals. The Steam Deck struggles with performance, achieving only 24 fps on the Portable preset. The game supports various controllers, including the Nintendo Switch 2 and DualSense, with a new difficulty mode called "to the wilder" that increases challenge through tougher enemies and resource management.

AppWizard

March 20, 2026

After accidentally clobbering my friends in grimdark action-RPG No Rest for the Wicked, now I can do it on purpose

No Rest for the Wicked Together has received a significant update from Moon Studios, introducing new features based on community feedback. The update includes PvP duels, text chat, callouts, a Realm Diary, and a comfort system for home-building. The player duel feature allows structured competition among friends, restoring health and gear durability after matches. The Realm Diary chronicles significant events in multiplayer, enhancing communication with quick callouts and a full text chat system. The comfort system improves home aesthetics and provides stat bonuses based on comfort ratings. Gameplay adjustments include a rework of bows for strategic combat, enchantment balance changes, and increased enemy health for endgame progression. Additional updates feature a rearranged crafting menu, a redesigned gesture wheel, new aspect ratio settings, and various bug fixes. The game is currently available at a 30% discount on Steam until March 26, priced at .49 / £24.49.

AppWizard

March 18, 2026

Death Stranding 2’s PC launch comes with a tougher new mode and, staying true to the brand, live-action cutscenes

The PC release of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set for March 19th. New features include a difficulty mode called "to the wilder," which presents challenging enemies and requires strategic gameplay. Players can earn unique bandanas for Sam by completing new VR training missions against a character named Neil. The game will also feature George Miller's Chiral Feline in the private room and photo mode. Additionally, live-action cutscenes that were previously cut due to capacity constraints will now be included. System requirements were disclosed last month for player preparation.

AppWizard

March 18, 2026

Death Stranding 2 is the first Decima game with Ray Tracing on PC

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will feature Ray Tracing effects on PC, making it the first title using the Decima engine to support this technology. The integration of Ray Tracing by Nixxes will enhance visual fidelity through improved reflections and ambient occlusion. These features were not included in the initial PC specifications, indicating increased CPU and GPU demands. The game will feature returning characters Norman Reedus, Léa Seydoux, and Troy Baker, as well as new additions Elle Fanning, Shioli Kutsuna, and director George Miller. It will offer features such as uncapped framerates, ultrawide monitor support, DualSense controller compatibility, and various PC upscalers. The release date is set for March 19th, with pre-orders available but no review codes yet provided.

AppWizard

March 17, 2026

Coming to Xbox Game Pass: Disco Elysium, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Final Fantasy IV and More

- Available Today: - DreamWorks Gabby’s Dollhouse: Ready to Party (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) – March 17 - South of Midnight (Cloud, Console, Handheld, PC) – March 18 - The Alters (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) – March 18 - Disco Elysium (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) – March 19 - Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (Cloud, Console, Handheld, PC) – March 24 - Absolum (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) – March 25 - Nova Roma (Game Preview) (PC) – March 26 - The Long Dark (Cloud, Console, PC) – March 30 - Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (Cloud, Console, PC) – March 31 - Barbie Horse Trails (Cloud, Console, Handheld, PC) – April 2 - Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, Handheld, PC) – April 2 - Final Fantasy IV (Cloud, Xbox Series X|S, PC) – April 7 - In Case You Missed It: - Minishoot’ Adventures (Console, Cloud, Handheld, PC) – March 3 - Game Updates: - Valorant (PC, Console) – March 18 - Sea of Thieves: Season 19 (Console, PC) – March 19 - In-Game Benefits: - Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 (Console) – Available now - Skate. (Console, Game Pass Ultimate only) – Available now - Leaving March 31: - Peppa Pig World Adventures (Cloud, Console, PC) - Mad Streets (Cloud, Console, PC)

Tech Optimizer

March 16, 2026

What Is a Crypto Miner Virus?

A crypto miner virus, or cryptojacking malware, secretly uses a device’s CPU or GPU to mine cryptocurrency for an attacker, leading to increased electricity costs and potential hardware damage for the victim. It typically infects devices through phishing emails, pirated software, compromised websites, and malicious browser extensions. Monero is the preferred cryptocurrency for mining due to its efficiency on standard CPUs and privacy features. Signs of infection include overheating, high CPU usage, and increased electricity bills. Detection involves monitoring system performance and running antivirus scans. Prevention includes using antivirus software, keeping systems updated, and avoiding pirated software. Notable incidents include attacks on a European water utility and the Los Angeles Times website.