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Ex-Microsoft engineer rebuilds Notepad in 2.5KB using nothing but stuff Windows already had
Winsage
July 4, 2026

Ex-Microsoft engineer rebuilds Notepad in 2.5KB using nothing but stuff Windows already had

Dave Plummer, a retired Microsoft engineer, has developed TinyRetroPad, a Notepad-like application that is only 2.5 kilobytes in size. TinyRetroPad includes features such as Open, Save, Find and Replace, printing, font selection, word wrap, and an unsaved changes prompt. It is built on existing Windows components, allowing it to function efficiently without extensive resources. TinyRetroPad is based on Dave’s Tiny Editor and utilizes RICHEDIT50W for text handling. The application's file size increased incrementally with each feature added, with the final size being 2,476 bytes. Crinkler, a compression linker, was used to optimize the executable. TinyRetroPad is still in development, facing issues like high memory consumption and compatibility problems. In contrast, Windows 11's Notepad has become larger and more complex, weighing approximately 352KB and incorporating features that some users find unnecessary. Windows 11 LTSC retains the classic Notepad without modern features, while TinyRetroPad aims to demonstrate the potential for simplicity in application design.
Sand publisher celebrates 300,000 copies sold: 'We getting a half hour of air conditioning tonight!'
AppWizard
July 4, 2026

Sand publisher celebrates 300,000 copies sold: ‘We getting a half hour of air conditioning tonight!’

Sand: Raiders of Sophie, a steampunk-mechs-in-the-desert game, sold 300,000 copies after its early access launch. An update released on July 2 caused connection issues, leading to a rollback of changes. The game ranks among the top 100 most played games. The second update on June 2 faced backlash due to connectivity problems but was quickly addressed. The update included fixes for server availability, enhanced BattlEye functionality, refined character movement, and various balance changes. Known issues include characters getting stuck on ladders and transparency issues in spectator mode.
One of the best sci-fi strategy games of 2004 is free in GOG's Summer Sale
AppWizard
July 3, 2026

One of the best sci-fi strategy games of 2004 is free in GOG’s Summer Sale

Nexus: The Jupiter Incident is a tactical fleet simulator set in a sci-fi universe, released in April 2005 and received an 83% review score from PC Gamer. It is currently available for free on GOG until July 6 as part of the Summer Sale. The game's narrative takes place 60 years after the events surrounding Noah's Ark, focusing on Captain Marcus Cromwell amidst a conflict among megacorporations. The GOG Summer Sale runs until July 9, offering various games at discounted prices.
Carcass Clad is less story-heavy than Mouthwashing, but 'a lot of thought' has gone into it: 'We haven't discovered how much we can push it'
AppWizard
July 3, 2026

Carcass Clad is less story-heavy than Mouthwashing, but ‘a lot of thought’ has gone into it: ‘We haven’t discovered how much we can push it’

Developer Wrong Organ is set to unveil their latest project, Carcass Clad, a roguelike co-op tank simulation game, following their previous success with the narrative horror game, Mouthwashing. The game is set in a city in disarray and focuses on action and strategy. Developer Jeffrey Tomec stated that while scripted narrative elements are not the focus, storytelling and worldbuilding remain integral to the design. The core idea of Carcass Clad revolves around the tank, with an emphasis on evoking emotional responses from players. Each game element is crafted to enhance the player experience, connecting them with the environment and mechanics. The reveal trailer has garnered attention, suggesting a fresh take on cooperative gameplay and immersive world design.
Microsoft hits back at viral MacBook Neo mocking Windows hardware, but the Windows 11 reputation is the real fight
Winsage
July 1, 2026

Microsoft hits back at viral MacBook Neo mocking Windows hardware, but the Windows 11 reputation is the real fight

A viral video comparing Apple's MacBook Neo to a Windows gaming laptop, the HP Victus, received 5.4 million views and was criticized for being an unfair comparison. Microsoft responded by showcasing the Dell XPS 13, emphasizing its features such as a touchscreen, robust build quality, and a starting price of 9 for students. The Dell XPS 13 specifications include a 13.4-inch 2.5K touch display, Intel Core 5 320 processor, 8GB of RAM, and up to 512GB SSD storage. The XPS 13 is positioned as a superior alternative to the MacBook Neo, offering more flexibility in RAM configurations and features that appeal to ultraportable laptop consumers. Despite the hardware advantages of the XPS 13, Microsoft faces challenges with the perception of Windows 11, which may affect consumer sentiment.
Game Pass Hits The Open Road With RV There Yet? On Xbox And PC
AppWizard
June 30, 2026

Game Pass Hits The Open Road With RV There Yet? On Xbox And PC

RV There Yet? is a game developed and published by Nuggets Entertainment, available on Xbox Series X|S and PC, and part of Game Pass for Ultimate, PC, and Premium subscribers. The game is priced at £6.69 for those who wish to purchase it outright. Players navigate through challenges in Mabutts Valley while managing the RV and its occupants, emphasizing teamwork and communication. The gameplay involves driving, resource management, and problem-solving in a cooperative setting. The game is now available for download and supports Xbox Play Anywhere.
Here's How Google Meet Works On Android Auto While You're Driving
AppWizard
June 30, 2026

Here’s How Google Meet Works On Android Auto While You’re Driving

In 2026, Android Auto will introduce features to improve the driving experience, including native meeting controls for Google Meet integrated into the car's infotainment system. Users must update the Google Meet app and connect their phone to access a dedicated Meet icon, which includes a Scheduled tab for upcoming meetings and a History tab for recent contacts. The system allows seamless handoff of audio and control between the phone and car when entering or exiting the vehicle. The Google Meet experience in Android Auto will be audio-only, disabling video feeds and interactive functions like polls and chat to prioritize driver safety. Essential controls such as mute/unmute and hang up will be available on the car's display, and the app can automatically mute the microphone to reduce background noise. Users must pull over to access visual elements on their phone.
Fallout: New Vegas director Josh Sawyer says Obsidian has 'Karma Police' who go through games making sure every skill gets enough cool stuff to do: 'We're not gonna leave you out to dry'
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Fallout: New Vegas director Josh Sawyer says Obsidian has ‘Karma Police’ who go through games making sure every skill gets enough cool stuff to do: ‘We’re not gonna leave you out to dry’

Josh Sawyer, Obsidian's design director, discussed the studio's focus on balance in Fallout: New Vegas, emphasizing the importance of allowing various character builds to thrive and engage meaningfully through skill checks in dialogue. He expressed a desire for players to enjoy their character choices without feeling they have built a "fundamentally bad character." Obsidian differentiates itself from other studios by enabling diverse skills in conversations, as seen in quests where players can use skills like Science, Barter, or Speech to influence outcomes. Sawyer explained the decision to eliminate the Big Guns skill to enhance gameplay fluidity and prevent underutilization of skills. He highlighted the importance of making each skill useful in unique ways to build player trust, referencing the design of Goodsprings and the variety of skills available in quests. Sawyer acknowledged the challenges of anticipating player needs in RPG design compared to tabletop games, aiming to provide players with rich experiences that celebrate their character choices. Obsidian employs measures like the "Karma Police" to ensure all skills receive attention in gameplay.
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