codenames Archives

Winsage

June 3, 2026

Microsoft’s veteran engineer says Windows 8 was all built around “modern” codenames — including the polarizing Start menu

Microsoft unveiled Windows 8 on June 1, 2011, and ceased support for it on January 12, 2016. During its development, the team referred to it as "the modern experience" to distinguish it from Windows 7, known as "the classic experience." The new shell was called "modern shell" or "MoSh," while the old shell was referred to as "classic shell" or "ClaSh." The Start menu was initially called "Go page" and later renamed "MoGo." Other components were similarly named, such as "MoSet" for the settings control panel and "MoCo" for the ListView control. Microsoft is currently working on a project called Windows K2 to address issues in Windows 11, allowing users to postpone updates indefinitely and reducing the visibility of Copilot based on feedback. A status tracker for Windows K2 is available.

Winsage

June 1, 2026

NVIDIA N1 and N1X: new leak data show multiple Windows-on-Arm chips for notebooks

NVIDIA is preparing to enter the Windows PC market with at least two distinct ARM chip product tiers, the N1 and N1X, although these remain unverified. The N1X will have two configurations: a larger variant with 20 CPU cores (10+10 layout), 48 Blackwell Streaming Multiprocessors (6,144 CUDA cores), and a smaller variant with 18 CPU cores (9+9 layout) and 40 SMs (5,120 CUDA cores). The power envelope for the N1X models is projected to be between 45 to 80 watts. The smaller N1 variant is expected to have a power range of 18 to 45 watts and up to 20 SMs. Retailer listings suggest that Lenovo may offer models like the Yoga Pro 7 15.3 with NVIDIA N1X configurations and options for 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD. NVIDIA and Microsoft plan to unveil the first Windows PCs featuring NVIDIA chips, with potential vendors including Microsoft’s Surface brand and Dell. The success of the Windows-on-Arm platform will depend on factors beyond CUDA core count, such as native applications, drivers, power management, and gaming compatibility. NVIDIA's extensive resources, including CUDA and AI frameworks, may give it an advantage over competitors like Qualcomm.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Hands on with Windows 11 26H1 and why this update is not meant for your PC

Microsoft has announced Windows 11 26H1, a release intended exclusively for new ARM devices launching in 2026, specifically those powered by the Snapdragon X2 series. This version is not a feature update for existing PCs and will not appear in Windows Update notifications for users on Intel or AMD hardware. Windows 11 26H1 is based on a new internal core designed for ARM silicon, referred to as a "hardware-optimized release," and may carry the codename Bromine. The OS Build number for 26H1 is 28020.1611, distinguishing it from previous updates. Key enhancements include full integration of semantic natural-language search within Settings, an increase in the FAT32 format limit from 32 GB to 2 TB, and UI refinements. Notable omissions include the removal of .NET Framework 3.5 as an optional feature and a safeguard preventing the System Preparation Tool from running in Safe Mode. Windows 11 26H2 is expected later in 2026 for existing PCs.

BetaBeacon

December 30, 2025

New titles land in our giant collection of Android game and app deals to cap off 2025

Defense Zone 3 Ultra HD FREE (Reg. )

AppWizard

October 22, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Little Nightmares, Codenames, and more

9to5Toys is a platform that curates deals and insights for tech enthusiasts and consumers. It features a homepage with the latest tech news, and users can follow the brand on social media for real-time notifications. The platform offers resources such as a list of the best Apple deals, a daily podcast discussing technology and lifestyle, and a YouTube channel for video content on deals and product reviews.

AppWizard

October 13, 2025

New AMD Arm CPUs are coming, and with Steam Deck-type socket, according to leak

AMD is reportedly shipping test kits for a new lineup of Arm CPUs integrated with GPUs, with the latest chip codenamed Soundwave appearing in shipping manifests. This marks AMD's renewed commitment to the Arm CPU market after previously exploring it with the Opteron A1100 CPUs in 2016. The new Soundwave chips are expected to utilize the upcoming FF5 socket, which may replace the current FF3 socket used in devices like the Steam Deck. Shipping manifests have been uncovered that list test kits based on BGA1074 sockets, confirming the authenticity of the Soundwave kits. Speculation suggests these chips may be system on chips (SoCs) with integrated GPUs.

AppWizard

September 5, 2025

Google leaks its new Nest Cams and Nest Doorbell inside the Home app

Recent updates to the Google Home app have revealed details about upcoming Nest devices: Nest Cam Indoor (codename “ustica”), Nest Cam Outdoor (codename “linosa”), and Nest Doorbell (codename “rhodes”). Key features include: - 2K video recording - Digital zoom up to 6x - Color options: Nest Cam Outdoor in Snow and Hazel; Nest Cam Indoor in Snow, Berry, and Hazel; Nest Doorbell in Snow, Hazel, and Linen - Gemini support Google is also rebranding its subscription services, with Nest Aware becoming “Google Home Premium” and a new tier called “Google Home Premium Advanced” planned. The devices may be unveiled before the holiday shopping season.

AppWizard

August 1, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Dungeons of Dreadrock 2, Codenames, more

Google Play is offering significant price reductions on both digital offerings and tech hardware. Notable hardware discounts include a price drop on unlocked Galaxy S24 Ultra units, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic available at a discount with a Amazon gift card, and a low-priced wireless Android Auto CarlinKit adapter on Amazon. Additionally, there are various app discounts available.

AppWizard

July 16, 2025

Microsoft Tests Streaming Xbox Games on PC

Microsoft's Xbox division is testing a new feature that allows users to stream their personally owned games through the Xbox PC app, eliminating lengthy installations. This feature is currently available to Xbox Insiders with a Game Pass Ultimate subscription and enables players to access their game libraries on Windows devices using cloud technology. The app manages processing on remote servers, conserving local storage and reducing download times. This initiative is part of Microsoft's strategy to unify its gaming ecosystem and respond to competition from services like Nvidia's GeForce Now and Amazon's Luna. The feature aims to democratize access to games without requiring a subscription for owned titles. Challenges include reliance on internet connectivity and privacy concerns regarding cloud data management. If successful, this could lead to broader integration across Xbox platforms, including smart TVs. Feedback from Insiders will influence the rollout pace.

AppWizard

July 14, 2025

UAE-based Red Dune partners with Japanese studio Acquire

Red Dune Games, based in the UAE, has partnered with Japanese developer Acquire Corp to develop a series of innovative intellectual properties. Three projects are currently in development, codenamed Tremor, Umbra, and Shadowcar. Acquire has a history of notable titles and was owned by GungHo from 2011 to 2024 before being acquired by Kadokawa. Sultan Darmaki, CEO of Red Dune Games, and Takuma Endo, CEO of Acquire, both expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and its focus on global creativity and originality.