adjustments Archives

Winsage

August 2, 2026

Windows 11: Movable and Smaller Taskbar in Beta Test

Microsoft is expanding the testing of its redesigned taskbar for Windows 11 to the Beta Channel of the Windows Insider Program with the release of Beta Build 26220.9022 on July 31, 2026. This update allows selected participants to reposition the taskbar along any edge of the screen—top, left, right, or bottom—and introduces a more compact variant that reduces icon size and overall height. Users can adjust their taskbar position through the Settings menu under Personalization, and Windows will adapt associated flyouts and animations accordingly. The implementation aims to restore flexibility lost when Windows 11 was launched, where the taskbar was fixed to the bottom of the screen. However, some features remain under development, and limitations exist for alternative positions, including incomplete touch gestures and a simplified search box. The compact taskbar feature currently only supports reduced height at the top or bottom positions. Microsoft is also exploring taskbar positioning across multiple monitors but has not guaranteed different positions for each screen. The recent updates include renewed certificates for the Windows Insider Program and additional builds, with the timeline for stable release of these taskbar adjustments still uncertain.

Winsage

August 2, 2026

5 Reasons Why People Are Ditching Windows 11

Many users have embraced Windows 11, but a significant portion remains loyal to Windows 10 or is exploring alternative operating systems. Performance issues on older laptops with 4-8 GB of RAM are a primary concern, as Windows 11's background processes consume more memory than Windows 10, leading to slowdowns. Users have reported that even supported devices experience performance dips. Methods to enhance Windows 11 performance exist, but many users prefer lightweight alternatives like Linux and ChromeOS Flex, which often provide improved performance. Windows 11 is criticized for its bloatware, with pre-installed software occupying storage space and consuming resources. Users find the interface cluttered and the search functionality inefficient, prompting some to stick with Windows 10 or consider alternatives like Linux or macOS. The update process in Windows 11 has become frustrating due to buggy updates, leading users to delay updates and consider operating systems with more stable update experiences. AI integration in Windows 11 has not been universally appreciated, with some users feeling it is forced and expressing a desire for Microsoft to focus on performance and reliability instead. Data collection practices in Windows 11 have raised privacy concerns, causing some users to hesitate in upgrading from Windows 10. The requirement for a Microsoft account during setup complicates the experience for those who prefer privacy, prompting them to explore other operating systems that prioritize user privacy.

AppWizard

August 1, 2026

PS1 Classic Syphon Filter Gets an Unofficial PC Port

Syphon Filter, originally released on PlayStation in 1999, has been unofficially ported to PC. This version features an English launcher with game-image selection, internal resolution adjustments, aspect mode and fullscreen options, MSAA, and filtering options. It supports both keyboard and mouse as well as gamepad controls, with day-one keyboard and mouse support included. The port enhances visuals with dynamic scene lighting and realistic shadows, while restoring the original HUD, inventory systems, objectives, and weapon menus. Visual issues related to pickups and grenade effects have been fixed, and weapon muzzle flashes have been reinstated.

Winsage

August 1, 2026

Microsoft Vows To Optimize Windows 11 Performance For 8GB PCs

AI-driven memory shortages are inflating prices and reducing specifications for consumer electronics, particularly affecting models like Apple's MacBook Neo. The era of 8GB of RAM is emerging, which poses challenges for users on Windows 11. Microsoft is focusing on reducing the memory footprint of Windows 11 for devices with 8GB of RAM, aiming to enhance memory efficiency and ensure a responsive experience. Specific optimization methods were not disclosed, but the company has made adjustments to improve the performance of essential tools and streamline the PC setup process. Microsoft is also enhancing family safety controls and voice interaction capabilities. The challenge remains to maximize performance on systems with limited RAM, especially given the current demand for AI technologies.

AppWizard

August 1, 2026

These Android Phones Are Losing YouTube App Access In 2026

By 2026, certain smartphones will no longer receive support for popular applications like YouTube. Users can still access YouTube via the web version if their app is no longer supported. Google will not disable these devices remotely. Users are advised to check for software updates by navigating to Settings, selecting System, and tapping on Software Updates. Devices running Android 7.0 or later may have better app functionality, while those on Android 6.0 should consider upgrading. Current Android smartphones from Google and Samsung will receive up to seven years of software updates.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Google Keep is working on new UI that may screw up your muscle memory

Google is updating its Keep app, specifically focusing on the toolbar at the bottom. The Add button will become larger and permanently blue to reduce accidental taps. The Background options button will be replaced by a checkbox button for easier switching between note and list formats, while the Background options will still be accessible in the menu that appears when the Add button is tapped. Other features like Reminder, Labels, and Collaborator will also be included in the Add menu, indicating a more intuitive design for note-taking and list management. These changes are based on an APK teardown of version 5.26.301.00.90, and not all features may be included in the final release.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Bethesda Has a New Logo to Celebrate Its 40th Anniversary — and It Harkens Back to the Studio’s Old Terminator

Bethesda has introduced a new logo to celebrate its 40th anniversary, reflecting on its history and hinting at future projects. The studio has a legacy that includes significant titles such as The Elder Scrolls: Arena (1994) and The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall (1996), as well as several games in The Terminator franchise, including The Terminator: Future Shock (1995) and Skynet (1996). The Elder Scrolls 6 is projected for release in 2028, and Bethesda is also working on Fallout 5, remasters of Fallout 3 and New Vegas, an upcoming Fallout title from Obsidian, additional DLC for Starfield, and ongoing enhancements for Fallout 76. The new logo does not indicate a revival of The Terminator games.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

‘We are not looking to just maintain’ Elder Scrolls Online, new ZeniMax boss says, but a bunch of updates have been delayed into 2027 and possibly beyond

Nick Giacomini, the new co-head of ZeniMax Online Studios, addressed changes following layoffs at Xbox, affecting over 200 employees, including his predecessor Joseph Burba. He reassured fans that The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) remains a priority and emphasized a shift in focus from meeting deadlines to ensuring quality in development. Upcoming projects include a Class and Combat Refresh and a new Trial, which the studio aims to deliver to high standards. The studio has also seen notable departures, including original TESO director Matt Firor, marking a significant transition for ZeniMax Online Studios.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Blizzard is keeping secrets about Diablo 4’s next season until BlizzCon, but you can still try some of it out next week

Blizzard will reveal detailed patch notes for Diablo 4's upcoming season 15 at BlizzCon in September, marking a departure from their usual practice of providing advance details. The season will introduce new seasonal items, returning favorites, and adjustments to the Mythic Unique item system. New features include "Challenge Dungeons," which are boss encounters with customizable difficulty in the open world, and "Overland Ambushes," where players must react quickly to being hunted by a demon. Players can expect new items called "Soul Splinters" that enhance jewelry with damage buffs, and revamped Unique items from previous games, such as Leoric's Crown. The season will also see the return of the "Rebirth" system from Diablo 3 and changes to the Mythic Uniques, including the introduction of weaker, Unique versions of Iconic Mythics. A public test realm (PTR) for these features will be available from August 4 to August 11.

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

One UI 9 Could Soon Let You Control Zoom Levels on an App-by-App Basis

Samsung is enhancing its One UI 9 with a new feature that allows users to set custom zoom levels for individual applications. This feature will enable users to select from various zoom options, including Large, Largest, Medium, Small, Smallest, and System settings, and will keep the assigned zoom level for each app independent of overall system settings. References to this feature have been found in One UI 9 on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, but it has not yet been fully implemented. The release timeline is uncertain, but it may debut with a future retail update. Additionally, Samsung has introduced a built-in Google Search bar in One UI 9.