community engagement Archives

Winsage

July 2, 2026

Microsoft’s new Azure Linux 4.0 is here, and it could replace Windows Server in the enterprise

Microsoft has released Azure Linux 4.0, transitioning it from an internal tool to a server operating system that users can install on their own servers and virtual machines. Azure Linux 4.0 is built on Fedora Linux, allowing the use of RPMs and ensuring compatibility with Azure's cloud platform. The beta version features a hardened Linux kernel 6.18, optimized for performance on Hyper-V and Azure virtual machines, and incorporates SELinux-based security measures without a graphical user interface. In the Azure Marketplace, it is marketed as a "Microsoft-built Linux distribution for Azure," with formal support available for deployments on Azure but not for standalone hardware. The Azure Linux GitHub repository provides transparency into the distribution, encouraging community engagement while Microsoft retains control over the base image's contents. Azure Linux is positioned as a free, Azure-optimized server operating system for hybrid environments, potentially signaling a shift away from Windows Server.

AppWizard

July 2, 2026

This PC gaming launcher for Windows handhelds lets you browse stores and compare the best prices

Winhanced has introduced achievement support for popular gaming consoles like Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation. The latest update features a built-in store browser that allows users to navigate digital storefronts within the Winhanced interface. This feature is currently available for testing among supporters. The store browser offers personalized game recommendations based on user preferences and allows for searching specific titles or browsing categories. Winhanced encourages community feedback on the new feature and has a presence on Reddit for discussions.

AppWizard

June 30, 2026

Private Minecraft servers violate the law and resemble a “black market” – according to the Entertainment Software Association

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) has declared private Minecraft servers illegal, equating them to a "black market" for video games and considering them a form of piracy. The ESA is pursuing legal action against the owners of these private servers. However, Microsoft and Mojang Studios, the creators of Minecraft, do not fully share the ESA's perspective, as many fan-driven projects have thrived in a more lenient environment. Microsoft has not officially commented on the ESA's statements regarding private servers.

AppWizard

June 30, 2026

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 team reminds you it’s got another Kingdom Come and a Middle-earth game on the way as it tops 6,000,000 sales

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has sold over 6 million copies in a year and a half since its release, compared to the original's six years to reach the same milestone. Deep Silver, the game's publisher, expressed gratitude to the community and announced plans for two new open-world RPGs, including one set in the Kingdom Come universe and another in Middle-earth.

AppWizard

June 29, 2026

Android 17 ‘sneak peek’ at a foldable gaming mode has my attention—and then some

Mishaal Rahman, an employee at Google, revealed that Android 17 will feature a new foldable gaming mode designed to enhance gameplay on foldable devices. This mode will split the screen, displaying the game on the top half and a customizable virtual gamepad on the lower half, equipped with buttons similar to those on PlayStation or Nintendo controllers. The gaming mode is set to launch with the Android 17 platform release in the coming months. Additionally, Android 17 includes a multitasking tool called "Bubbles" and is currently undergoing testing with QPR1 Beta 5, which addresses various fixes.

AppWizard

June 29, 2026

PlayStation wants to win back PC users with PS6 handheld and exclusive games

SIE held a recent investor Q&A session, addressing various inquiries from stakeholders about its strategic vision and operational updates. Key points included: - Commitment to innovation in gaming technology, focusing on immersive experiences and user engagement. - Exploration of new markets and partnerships to enhance global presence. - Discussion on upcoming game releases and expansion of exclusive titles to maintain competitive advantage. - Dedication to fostering a vibrant gaming community and improving communication channels and support for developers. - Initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting diversity within the gaming industry.

AppWizard

June 27, 2026

The game formerly known as Operation Flashpoint is getting a remaster, while developer Bohemia Interactive has released its engine source code

Operation Flashpoint debuted in June 2001 as a significant military simulator with an expansive open-world design, allowing players to engage in combined-arms warfare across large islands. Players could control various military assets and command squads, offering a level of realism and complexity ahead of its time. Bohemia Interactive announced plans to celebrate ArmA: Cold War Assault with a remastered edition featuring a reengineered Poseidon engine, widescreen support, and modern hardware compatibility. A demo is available, serving as a "self-contained slice" and a "sanctioned asset pack" for fans to create new content. Bohemia has released the complete engine source code on GitHub, upgraded to C++20 with cross-platform support, while ensuring that the license does not extend to the ArmA or Operation Flashpoint trademarks. Bohemia is also developing ArmA Reforger, which recreates iconic islands and serves as a testbed for the anticipated ArmA 4, set for release in 2027.

BetaBeacon

June 26, 2026

Android 17 to offer a literal game changer for foldable phones – and now we’re in the market for a Pixel Fold

Google has unveiled a new foldable gaming mode for Android 17, which will divide the display of a book-style foldable device evenly with the game displayed on the top screen and a virtual gamepad on the bottom screen.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

New York Has a Gamer Mayor Now — and a $2.6 Billion Game Industry to Match

In June, New York City celebrated the NYC Battle of the Boroughs Champions at a press conference on June 10, recognizing the winners of the 2026 Minecraft Education Battle of the Boroughs. Among the winners was Team Hyper Pigmentation, an all-girl squad that won back-to-back titles. The city's digital games sector supports approximately 7,600 jobs, contributing billion in wages and generating a total economic output of billion. The NYC Mayor’s Office of Media & Entertainment (MOME) has established the Game Development Industry Council, launched the NYC Summer of Games campaign, and funded grants for developers. New York City's digital gaming ecosystem has an annual economic impact of .6 billion, with around 380 digital gaming firms, 65 percent of which are small or indie studios. The share of open roles in the gaming industry increased from 15.1 percent to 29.2 percent between Q3 2024 and Q1 2026. The Summer of Games features events from May through September, including the NYC Video Game Festival and the Tribeca Games Gallery. Mayor Zohran Mamdani is recognized as the first "Gamer Mayor," engaging with gaming culture and platforms like Twitch. Jones-Harvey emphasizes the importance of addressing affordability issues to retain talent in the gaming industry. She advocates for recognizing video games as a vital part of New York City's cultural landscape, alongside music, film, and theater.

AppWizard

June 26, 2026

Odessa hosting free ‘Minecraft’ movie night

The Parks and Recreation Department in Odessa, Texas, is hosting an outdoor cinema event on Thursday, June 26, at 8 p.m. at Lions Club Park, featuring "A Minecraft Movie." Attendees are encouraged to arrive an hour early to enjoy yard games. The event is free and takes place at 4341 Esmond Drive, Odessa, Texas 79762. For more information, residents can visit odessatxparks.org or call 432-368-3548.