backlash Archives

Winsage

June 7, 2026

4 Windows 11 tools from Build 2026 that signal what’s coming next for the OS

Microsoft announced several key updates at the Build 2026 developer conference, particularly for Windows 11: 1. Coreutils: This suite brings familiar Linux command-line utilities to Windows 11, allowing developers to use commands like ls, cp, and mkdir natively without third-party solutions. It can be installed via GitHub or the Windows Package Manager. 2. WSL Containers: This feature introduces a built-in container runtime for running Linux containers on Windows 11, eliminating the need for external platforms like Docker. It utilizes a command-line tool called "wslc.exe" and allows for OCI-compatible Linux containers. 3. Intelligent Terminal: This feature integrates AI agents into the terminal, providing context-aware assistance for developers. It can be installed via the Microsoft Store or Command Prompt. 4. Windows Developer Configurations: This configuration file for the Windows Package Manager automates the installation of essential developer tools and settings, streamlining the setup process for new development or testing machines.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

Apple removed the Russian messenger Max and deprived 20 million users of access

Russian officials and propaganda outlets have expressed discontent with Apple's decision to remove the state-sponsored messenger app, Max, from its App Store without prior notice. Apple cited compliance with sanctions legislation as the reason for its action, leading to backlash in Russia where the company is labeled as "enemies." The Max messenger, developed in Russia, is used for disseminating propaganda and maintaining control over internet access, and its removal has made it inaccessible to over 20 million users in Russia, reducing the effectiveness of state-sponsored propaganda. The Russian government is attempting to create a "digital iron curtain" for surveillance and internet restriction, while propaganda narratives portray the country as technologically advanced, despite reliance on foreign companies. Russia has become a global leader in the number of app removals from the App Store, and reports indicate that schools in occupied territories are being forced to use the Max messenger for communication.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

Microsoft is bringing 10 new features to Windows 11’s taskbar and Start menu

Microsoft is planning to introduce several new features and improvements to the Windows 11 taskbar and Start menu in response to user feedback. Users will soon have the ability to reposition the taskbar to the top, left, or right of the screen, with options for icon alignment. A new “Show smaller taskbar buttons” toggle will reduce the physical height of the taskbar, providing more screen space. These features are currently available in the Insider Experimental channel and are expected to roll out to all PCs soon. The Widgets board will also see changes, with the MSN feed being disabled by default and the “Open on hover” behavior eliminated. In the Start menu, users will gain section-level toggles to hide or show the Pinned, Recent, and All Apps sections. The Start menu can be resized to either Small or Large, and a new privacy mode will hide account names and profile pictures. The “Recommended” section will be renamed to “Recent,” and improvements will be made to file relevancy. Additionally, the Start menu will transition to a new modular engine, enhancing responsiveness and addressing previous criticisms regarding performance.

AppWizard

June 6, 2026

Gothic devs are ‘monitoring the sentiment about lockpicking,’ promise a PC patch for crashes by Monday

Gothic's recent remake has generated mixed feelings among players, particularly regarding its revamped lockpicking system. The new mechanic has led to confusion, with players discussing its complexity on platforms like Reddit. One user explained that the lockpicking involves moving multiple plates in a specific order, which can be challenging for newcomers. A contributor expressed frustration with the system, stating it diminished their enjoyment of the game, although they acknowledged it is an improvement over the original. Developer Alkimia responded to community concerns, indicating they are monitoring feedback and considering adjustments, including making the system easier as players invest skill points. The backlash reflects a tradition in RPGs where challenging minigames, like lockpicking, are seen as a rite of passage.

Winsage

June 5, 2026

Microsoft dropped Copilot+ PC branding for Windows 11’s most powerful AI laptop, and nobody complained

In May 2024, Microsoft launched Copilot+ PCs featuring local AI acceleration and Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chips. However, during the introduction of the Surface Laptop Ultra, powered by NVIDIA’s RTX Spark platform, Microsoft did not mention the Copilot+ branding. The Surface Laptop Ultra is described as the most powerful AI-centric Windows laptop, yet it lacks the Copilot+ label, raising questions about the branding strategy. Initially, Copilot+ PCs were marketed as the fastest and most intelligent Windows PCs, requiring specific hardware specifications. The Recall feature, intended as a "photographic memory," faced privacy issues, leading to its retraction and redesign. In 2025, Microsoft integrated Copilot into various Windows applications, resulting in user backlash and a decline in the brand's perception. The Surface Laptop Ultra is confirmed as a Copilot+ PC internally, but Microsoft chose not to use the branding publicly, likely due to NVIDIA's branding interests. Additionally, inconsistencies in hardware requirements for Copilot+ PCs have created confusion among consumers. Microsoft may need to consider a rebranding of Windows as it focuses on local AI development and improving performance.

Winsage

June 4, 2026

Microsoft is rewriting Windows 11 shell in native code, killing the web slop slowing your PC

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 by reducing reliance on web-based components, which have caused performance issues. The user interface framework WinUI will now be referred to simply as "WinUI," indicating no plans for a WinUI 4, to reassure developers. Microsoft is integrating WinUI into the Windows 11 shell more rapidly, moving away from web components. A specialized team is focused on creating "100% native" Windows applications, starting with an overhaul of the Start menu from React Native to WinUI components. Performance, memory optimization, and quality control are top priorities for the WinUI team. A new system compositor is being introduced to improve UI performance, and enterprise-focused DataGrid and Charting controls are being added to WinUI. Microsoft is expanding open-source development for WinUI, allowing public testing and contributions. Migration support between WinForms and WinUI is being enhanced for legacy applications. An experimental project called Microsoft UI Reactor is introduced to simplify native application development using C#. This shift towards native development aims to improve performance and efficiency for all Windows users.

AppWizard

June 4, 2026

Kremlin’s State-Mandated Max Messenger Removed From Apple Store

On June 3, Russia's Max messenger was removed from the Apple App Store. Max, launched in 2025 by VK, integrates messaging, social media, digital identification, payments, banking, and government services. The reasons for its removal are unclear, and VK plans to seek clarification from Apple. Following the removal, the app stopped sending push notifications. Max is part of the Kremlin's strategy for control over information and is positioned as a "secure" alternative, although it lacks end-to-end encryption. Moscow has previously restricted foreign social media platforms, including banning Facebook and Instagram, and has faced backlash for banning Telegram in 2026. Critics warn that Max may enable the Kremlin to monitor citizen communications, with concerns raised about the security of data shared through the app.

AppWizard

June 3, 2026

Marathon’s new PvE experiment is Bungie’s most genius decision yet, so make it a full mode already

Players can now access the new content from Marathon's Season 2 update after initial server issues. The update features a nighttime Dire Marsh map, which has limited visibility and requires players to use torches and gadgets. The experimental Sponsored Survival mode is a key highlight, available from June 2 to June 9, allowing players to explore the map without immediate threats from other players, aside from UESC bots. Solo Rook players will gradually join the match, increasing competition for loot. Interactions with Rooks are infrequent, leading to mostly non-violent encounters. This mode aims to provide a PvE experience while maintaining PvP elements. A full PvE mode is anticipated to debut later in Season 2.

AppWizard

June 3, 2026

For the sixth year running, Dontnod honors Pride Month by giving away an award-winning adventure game

Tell Me Why, a narrative adventure game by Dontnod, is available for free in celebration of Pride Month for the sixth consecutive year. The game follows twins Tyler and Alyson Ronan as they navigate their past in small-town Alaska, exploring themes of identity and connection. Critics have praised the game's representation of Tyler's identity, despite some minor character development flaws. The gaming community has experienced review bombing against the game, prompting developers to encourage support for trans creators and inclusive charities. The game is free on Steam until June 30 and is also available on Xbox.

Winsage

June 2, 2026

Windows 8 is now 15 years old. Here’s where it’s still being used

Microsoft launched Windows 8 on June 1st, 2011, which faced backlash for its touch-centric design. The initial working title was "modern," leading to confusion with new components labeled "Mo." In response to criticism, Microsoft released Windows 8.1 a year later, reintroducing the classic desktop environment while retaining some contentious design choices. Windows 8 was officially discontinued in January 2016, but it continues to be used in various sectors, including hospitals, supermarket checkouts, gas stations, industry machinery, and government agencies. Some private users still prefer Windows 8 or 8.1, despite initial dissatisfaction. Government agencies often use proprietary firewalls to mitigate security risks associated with outdated software, and users are advised not to connect Windows 8 systems to the internet.