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RedOctane's 'next evolution in rhythm gaming' sure looks a lot like 2007's Rock Band
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

RedOctane’s ‘next evolution in rhythm gaming’ sure looks a lot like 2007’s Rock Band

RedOctane became a significant player in the gaming industry in the early 2000s, peaking in 2005 with the release of Guitar Hero. Activision acquired RedOctane in 2006, but by 2010, the company was closed due to declining interest in rhythm games. In 2025, Embracer Group revived the brand as RedOctane Games, announcing a new title called Stage Tour, which resembles Guitar Hero but introduces new features and game modes. Stage Tour will function as a "band game" with solo play options, and a closed alpha test is planned ahead of its holiday season release. RedOctane Games aims to create a sustainable experience rather than a series of sequels, and there is uncertainty about the demand for a new rhythm game experience. Details on pricing and song availability are still pending.
Microsoft confirms a wider roll out of Windows 11's new colourful battery icons on the taskbar
Winsage
February 28, 2026

Microsoft confirms a wider roll out of Windows 11’s new colourful battery icons on the taskbar

Windows 11 users will see colorful battery icons on the taskbar as Microsoft rolls out updates, including the new Start menu, with the update KB5077241. The vibrant battery icons have been in development for nearly two years, with initial testing starting in late 2024. The rollout began last year but was limited to select PCs. An optional update in February 2026 will further expand the availability of these icons and the updated Start menu. The new battery icon replaces the plain white bar with a green icon when charging, featuring a charging bolt during the process. The icon changes color based on battery levels: it turns orange at 30% and red below 6%. Users can display the battery percentage on the taskbar by enabling it in Settings > System > Power & Battery. Recent improvements to the Windows taskbar include the return of drag-and-drop functionality, the ability to resize the taskbar, and potential options to reposition it. Microsoft is also updating Secure Boot certificates, set to expire in June 2026, and distributing new certificates issued in 2023 to more PCs. A tutorial is available for users to verify the application of these new Secure Boot certificates.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

‘Console Is Where They Want to Be’ — Reports Indicate Sony Is ‘Pulling Away’ From PC for Single-Player PlayStation Games

Sony is shifting its focus away from the PC market for single-player PlayStation games, emphasizing console exclusivity instead. Industry insiders, including Bloomberg's Jason Schreier and Digital Foundry's John Linneman, indicate that exclusive single-player titles may not be released on PC, with Schreier citing the upcoming Wolverine game as a potential example. He noted that Sony has not seen significant commercial success with its single-player titles on PC. While live service games will continue to be released on both platforms, the overall strategy appears to be leaning towards console-centric development. Upcoming titles like Bungie's Marathon and Guerrilla's Horizon multiplayer spinoff will launch simultaneously on PC and consoles. Additionally, there are concerns about potential delays in the launch of the PlayStation 6, possibly pushing it back to 2028 or 2029 due to chip market challenges. Sony recently closed Bluepoint Games, known for remakes, while continuing to operate Nixxes Software, a studio specializing in PC ports.
Avast Antivirus Just Got Smarter: Is It Finally Worth Your Money?
Tech Optimizer
February 26, 2026

Avast Antivirus Just Got Smarter: Is It Finally Worth Your Money?

Avast Antivirus has introduced advanced AI tools, enhanced browser protection, and new privacy features in the U.S. market. It offers real-time malware protection, phishing shields, and Wi-Fi scanning. Avast's product lineup includes a free version, a premium security plan, and Avast One, catering to different user needs. Independent lab tests show Avast ranks highly in malware blocking, competing with brands like Bitdefender and Kaspersky. However, users should be cautious of upselling practices and data collection concerns. The free version provides strong protection, while paid plans offer additional features like VPN and advanced ransomware protection. Avast is accessible on various platforms, and pricing fluctuates due to promotions. Users are advised to assess their needs and be mindful of renewal rates before subscribing.
Announcing new Cloud PC devices designed for Windows 365
Winsage
February 26, 2026

Announcing new Cloud PC devices designed for Windows 365

In 2024, Microsoft launched Windows 365 Link, a new category of devices designed for quick access to Windows 365 Cloud PCs, enhancing IT management and security. Microsoft is collaborating with ASUS and Dell to expand the Cloud PC device portfolio. The ASUS NUC 16 for Windows 365 is a mini-PC with a 0.7L design, supporting up to three displays, expected to be available in Europe and the U.S. by Q3 2026. The Dell Pro Desktop for Windows 365 is a compact, fanless desktop that also supports three displays and will be available in 58 countries by Q3 2026. Both devices boot directly into Windows 365 and are managed through Microsoft Intune. Key updates for the Windows CPC operating system are planned for Q2 2026, including Bluetooth pairing support and tenant branding features. Windows 365 Link is currently available in 20 countries, with plans for market expansion.
PoC Published for Microsoft Windows Flaw That Allows Low-Privileged Users to Force Irrecoverable BSODs
Winsage
February 26, 2026

PoC Published for Microsoft Windows Flaw That Allows Low-Privileged Users to Force Irrecoverable BSODs

Security researchers have developed a working Proof of Concept (PoC) exploit for a vulnerability in the Windows kernel, identified as CVE-2026-2636, which allows low-privileged users to induce a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD), resulting in a Denial of Service. This vulnerability is linked to the Windows Common Log File System (CLFS) driver, specifically the CLFS.sys component, and arises from improper handling of invalid or special elements within CLFS (CWE-159). The PoC demonstrates that a non-administrative user can trigger the bug by executing a crafted ReadFile operation on a handle linked to an opened .blf log file without the expected I/O Request Packet (IRP) flags set. This leads to a critical inconsistency in the driver, causing Windows to invoke the kernel routine KeBugCheckEx, which results in a BSoD. The CVE-2026-2636 has a CVSS score of 5.5 (Medium) and poses a high impact on availability, allowing any authenticated user to crash the host reliably. Microsoft addressed this vulnerability in the September 2025 cumulative update, protecting systems running Windows 11 2024 LTSC and Windows Server 2025 by default. However, older or unpatched builds remain vulnerable. Organizations are advised to verify the deployment of the September 2025 updates, prioritize patching multi-user systems, and monitor for unusual spikes in BSoD events.
Windows 11 Has 4 Powerful Features Most Users Never Turn On (But Should)
Winsage
February 24, 2026

Windows 11 Has 4 Powerful Features Most Users Never Turn On (But Should)

Microsoft's Windows 11 includes several built-in features that enhance usability and system management, which can be activated by users: 1. Clipboard History: Allows users to retain multiple copied items and access them with Win + V. To enable, go to Settings > System > Clipboard and toggle on Clipboard history. 2. Snap Layouts: Provides predefined window arrangements for better organization of applications. To ensure it's enabled, go to Settings > System > Multitasking and turn on Snap windows. 3. Show File Extensions: Displays full file names including extensions for better identification of file types. To enable, open File Explorer, select View > Show > File name extensions. 4. Storage Sense: Automates the removal of temporary files and manages storage space. To enable, go to Settings > System > Storage and toggle on Storage Sense. 5. "God Mode": Creates a folder that centralizes access to various administrative tools and settings. To enable, create a new folder on the desktop and rename it to GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}. These features are built into Windows 11 and do not require third-party applications.
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