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AI vendors are turning to custom hardware as Microsoft winds back the clock on Windows
Winsage
August 24, 2026

AI vendors are turning to custom hardware as Microsoft winds back the clock on Windows

This week, insights into datacenter technology reveal a shift in GPU dominance, with companies exploring alternatives. Cerebras, founded by Andrew Feldman, has developed chips the size of dinner plates that contain 44 gigabytes of ultra-fast SRAM, circumventing high-bandwidth memory supply constraints. In 2024, Cerebras launched an inference server that processes tokens faster than any GPU configuration, utilizing structured sparsity and partnering with AWS and AMD. The latest Cerebras chips, CS-4 systems, feature a modular architecture that doubles performance and bandwidth. Google is also moving towards custom silicon with its Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), while Marvell competes with Broadcom in providing IP for custom chips. Waymo announced a custom machine learning accelerator for its autonomous vehicles to enhance compute density and address limitations of previous FPGA use. On the software side, Microsoft is reintroducing the ability to move the taskbar in Windows 11, responding to user feedback after nearly five years. This change reflects Microsoft's focus on user experience amid competition from alternatives like macOS and Linux.
Windows 11’s September update reshapes key parts of the OS, and these 3 customizations instantly make the new release feel faster, cleaner, and more personal to use
Winsage
August 23, 2026

Windows 11’s September update reshapes key parts of the OS, and these 3 customizations instantly make the new release feel faster, cleaner, and more personal to use

In September 2026, Microsoft will release an update for Windows 11 that enhances user control over the interface with new customization options. Users will be able to relocate the Taskbar to the top of the screen, modify the size of the Start menu, and disable web results from Windows Search. These features are part of the Windows K2 initiative and will be rolled out gradually across devices.
I think Microsoft is finally fixing the customization problems that held Windows 11 back
Winsage
August 23, 2026

I think Microsoft is finally fixing the customization problems that held Windows 11 back

Windows 11 is evolving into a more user-centric operating system, with recent updates enhancing customization options like moving and resizing the Taskbar and improving Start menu control. This change is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative, which aims to boost performance and user experience. Initially, Windows 11's design aimed for simplicity but reduced user choices, leading to frustration. The context menu was simplified but became cluttered again, prompting updates that allow users to customize its organization. Microsoft recognizes that users have varied preferences for interacting with the OS, and the flexibility in Taskbar positioning enhances satisfaction. While the updates are positive, there is criticism that Microsoft should not be overly praised for restoring previously removed features. The goal is to maintain a modern interface while enhancing user experience without sacrificing functionality. Recent changes reflect an understanding that the issues with Windows 11 arose from removing options rather than having too many choices, guiding future updates to balance user-friendliness with customization.
Microsoft built a dedicated app that forces Bing everywhere on Windows 11, including Chrome, Firefox, and Brave
Winsage
August 22, 2026

Microsoft built a dedicated app that forces Bing everywhere on Windows 11, including Chrome, Firefox, and Brave

Microsoft has introduced a standalone application called MicrosoftSettings.exe that prompts users to change their default search engine to Bing across all browsers on their PC. This application is not force-installed via Windows Update or available in the Microsoft Store; it can be downloaded from Microsoft's official servers. Upon installation, it encourages users to add a Chrome extension named Microsoft Bing Homepage & Search, which alters search settings and directs users to the Microsoft Rewards page. The installation process features a welcome screen with a pre-set toggle for changing the search engine to Bing, applicable to Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Google Chrome. The extension has a 4-star rating and claims 5 million users, but it triggers alerts from Chrome regarding its permissions. Microsoft has also launched a sweepstakes for Bing users and made it possible to sign into Bing using Google or Apple accounts. Despite efforts to promote Bing, Microsoft has committed to decluttering MSN and simplifying its offerings in other areas.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
August 21, 2026

Riot is ending development of its 2XKO fighting game

Riot Games has decided to cease active development of its fighting game, 2XKO, six months after significantly reducing its development team. This decision follows a layoff of approximately 80 developers due to the game's failure to generate the necessary momentum for long-term support. Despite attracting a considerable number of players and fostering a vibrant community, 2XKO did not achieve a sustainable player base. The game, which was officially confirmed in 2019 and released in January 2026, struggled to engage the broader fighting game community, despite being well-received by diehard tag fighter enthusiasts. Riot had previously expressed commitment to the game's future but has now acknowledged the need to conclude active development due to a lack of meaningful, sustained change in player engagement. The studio plans to provide a roadmap for remaining updates and support for the community.
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