NewApp Digest
search bot

calling

AI Threat Forces Microsoft To Update Windows Patch Guidance
Winsage
July 11, 2026

AI Threat Forces Microsoft To Update Windows Patch Guidance

Microsoft is advocating for a reevaluation of Windows patch management practices due to the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) impacting cybersecurity. The company emphasizes that traditional timelines for patch deployment, typically spanning several weeks after the monthly Patch Tuesday, are inadequate against modern cyber threats. Microsoft recommends organizations shorten deployment windows to under three days for quality updates, with immediate installation deadlines and minimal user grace periods. To support these changes, Microsoft is enhancing Windows Autopatch with a new reporting dashboard for patch compliance and security insights. The company is promoting cloud-managed deployment through Microsoft Intune and Windows Autopatch while continuing to support legacy tools. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing Windows Hotpatch technology, allowing security updates to be installed without immediate reboots, and advocating for the use of identity-based access controls to isolate unpatched devices. The guidance reflects a shift from scheduled patching to continuous risk management, encouraging organizations to prioritize high-risk assets and automate update deployments. Microsoft is also investing in AI-assisted vulnerability discovery and automated code analysis to improve defensive capabilities. The overarching message is that enterprises must adapt their update strategies to address the accelerated pace of AI-driven exploitation.
This fan-favorite Android Auto video app is calling it quits, but with a sweet goodbye update
AppWizard
July 8, 2026

This fan-favorite Android Auto video app is calling it quits, but with a sweet goodbye update

Fermata Xtream, a popular app for streaming videos and live television on Android Auto, is ceasing further development as announced by its developer, Malebuffy. A final update, version 2.3.1, has been released, which includes enhancements such as fixed main menu item reordering, a main menu color change option, simplified mirroring functionality, the addition of a Plex client in an experimental phase, and various bug fixes. Fermata Xtream is a paid application, with a free version available on GitHub, but users need to purchase a paid “Enabler” app to access all features. There are no plans for future updates from the developer.
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.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
July 4, 2026

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

Dave Plummer, a former Microsoft engineer, is recreating Notepad in 2.5 kilobytes with a project called TinyRetroPad, which includes features like Open, Save, Find and Replace, printing, font selection, word wrap, and unsaved changes prompt. TinyRetroPad leverages existing Windows infrastructure, utilizing built-in resources to function efficiently. It is based on Matt Power’s Dave’s Tiny Editor and operates as a wrapper around RICHEDIT50W. The size of TinyRetroPad increased with each feature added, reaching 2,476 bytes with printing. The project uses Crinkler, a compression linker, to optimize the executable. TinyRetroPad currently lacks a dedicated Releases page and may trigger false positives from antivirus software. Users have reported issues such as excessive memory usage and compatibility problems with older Windows versions. In contrast, the modern Notepad in Windows 11 has grown to approximately 352KB, with a total disk footprint nearing 5MB, leading to user backlash over its complexity. Windows 11 LTSC retains the classic Notepad, while TinyRetroPad aims to demonstrate the potential of leveraging existing OS capabilities rather than adding unnecessary features.
Microsoft omits controversial workplace check-in feature from June Teams roundup
Winsage
July 3, 2026

Microsoft omits controversial workplace check-in feature from June Teams roundup

In June, Microsoft introduced several enhancements for Microsoft Teams, including new calling agents, brand impersonation protection, redesigned in-meeting controls, bot detection, a facilitator in Teams Rooms, and IntelliFrame people labels. A notable feature, "workplace check-in via Wi-Fi," is now generally available after initial criticism and a delayed rollout. SharePoint content shared through Quick Share retains permissions to enhance user privacy.
Microsoft brags Copilot key has main character energy on Windows 11, but you can soon remap it
Winsage
July 3, 2026

Microsoft brags Copilot key has main character energy on Windows 11, but you can soon remap it

Microsoft promoted the Copilot key on social media, branding it as a button with “main character energy,” despite acknowledging that it has negatively impacted productivity for some users. The company plans to allow remapping of the key in an upcoming Windows 11 update. User reactions to the promotion were largely critical, with many expressing dissatisfaction and calling for the removal of the Copilot key. Microsoft had previously admitted that the key caused disruptions in productivity and accessibility workflows. Additionally, only 3.3% of Microsoft 365 users are paying for Copilot, indicating low adoption. Microsoft has distanced its flagship products from the Copilot branding and users have reported preferring alternatives like ChatGPT and Claude over Copilot.
Dragon Age setting creator says AI push is a delusion of the executive class that's a 'virulent plague' on games
AppWizard
July 2, 2026

Dragon Age setting creator says AI push is a delusion of the executive class that’s a ‘virulent plague’ on games

David Gaider, a veteran of BioWare and creator of the Dragon Age universe, expressed concerns about generative AI in gaming, calling it a "virulent plague" that negatively impacts creativity and job opportunities. He criticized the current use of AI for producing subpar results and diminishing entry-level opportunities for writers. Gaider suggested that AI should be used as a supportive tool for mundane tasks, allowing human writers to focus on creative work, but noted that AI is currently taking on critical roles instead. He emphasized the importance of nurturing new talent and cautioned against eliminating tasks essential for training junior developers. Gaider also raised ethical concerns about AI's reliance on datasets that may lack consent from original creators, warning of potential legal issues. He expressed skepticism about AI's readiness for widespread application in the industry, advocating for caution until proper regulation and ethical data training are established.
PC Gamer's 2025 GOTY is yours for a ludicrous $24 during the Steam Summer Sale
AppWizard
June 25, 2026

PC Gamer’s 2025 GOTY is yours for a ludicrous $24 during the Steam Summer Sale

Warhorse Studios is offering a significant discount on Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 during the Steam Summer Sale, with the game available for a reduced price and the Royal Edition, which includes three additional DLC story packs, also discounted. PC Gamer rated KCD2 at 90%, calling it a “new RPG classic.” The game features an expansive adventure in a detailed Bohemian landscape, with elements reminiscent of Oblivion and The Witcher 3. Players have noted improvements from the first installment, including a new forge expansion and a monastery questline. A new patch has been released that includes bug fixes and a free quest titled "A Jester's Visit." Players do not need to have played the original game to enjoy the sequel, as KCD2 is designed to be welcoming to newcomers.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 25, 2026

Grand Theft Auto 6 preorders begin tonight at midnight local time in the US; here’s where to buy — get yours now, it’s in the garage and ready to roll

The preorder pages for Grand Theft Auto VI will go live at midnight local time across the United States. Gamers can choose between the Standard and Ultimate editions, with digital preorders offering a month-long subscription to GTA+. The Ultimate Edition is priced at .99 and includes additional side missions, vehicles, weapons, and outfits for protagonists Jason and Lucia. The game is set to be released on November 19. PC gamers will have to wait another year for the game to run natively on their systems.
Search