compatibility Archives

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Report shows 34% of physical PS5 games and 50% of Xbox Series X games do not work fully without a download first

Sony plans to end production of game discs by 2028, indicating a shift towards digital gaming. An analysis shows that physical discs may not ensure offline gaming access, as recent outages of Xbox servers have hindered users' ability to play their games. This raises concerns about game preservation, as reliance on online servers and downloads complicates the safeguarding of digital experiences. Unlike PC gamers, who can still use external disc drives, future PS6 owners will not have this option, making it harder for physical media enthusiasts and preservationists.

Winsage

July 31, 2026

Microsoft Ended Windows 10 Support, but You Don’t Necessarily Need a New PC

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft ceased support for Windows 10, which means it will no longer receive technical assistance, feature updates, or security patches. Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which has been extended to October 2027, allowing users to continue receiving essential security updates if their device meets specific criteria. Eligibility for ESU includes running Windows 10, version 22H2 Home, Professional, Pro Education, or Workstations edition, having the latest Windows update installed, being signed in with an administrator Microsoft account, and enabling Windows Backup. ESU is free for users utilizing Windows Backup; otherwise, a one-time fee or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points is required. For devices not qualifying for ESU, alternatives include installing third-party antivirus software, upgrading to Windows 11, or switching to Linux. To enroll in ESU, users can navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, where an Enroll Now link will appear if eligible.

Winsage

July 31, 2026

Windows 11 File Explorer just changed how file sizes work, how to see MB and GB right now

Microsoft has updated the Details view in File Explorer for Windows 11 to display file sizes using appropriate units (KB, MB, GB) instead of only kilobytes (KB). This change aims to enhance user understanding of file sizes, particularly for casual users. The update is confirmed in the release notes for Windows 11 KB5101684. Users can enable this feature by downloading ViveTool, running a specific command, and rebooting their system. The original KB-only display can be restored with another command, although there is no toggle option provided by Microsoft for switching back.

Winsage

July 30, 2026

You might think Linux always wins — but a lifelong Linux user found something in Windows 11 worth switching for

A Linux user with extensive experience transitioned to Windows 11 for practical reasons, citing compatibility with essential applications like Microsoft Office and Autodesk software as key factors. Despite acknowledging flaws in Windows 11, he found it better suited to his workflow. The discussion highlighted that many users differentiate between the operating system and Microsoft's corporate practices, with some praising Windows 11's improvements while criticizing Microsoft's approach. Concerns about resource usage and user control were also raised, along with the appeal of Linux's customization options. Ultimately, the debate emphasizes that the choice of operating system depends on individual needs and workflows rather than a definitive superiority of one over the other.

Winsage

July 30, 2026

ThinkPads from 2008 are some of the hottest used laptops right now — Here’s how (and why) they’re being turned into Windows 11 PCs

The ThinkPad X210Ai is a modified laptop that combines the chassis of older ThinkPad models (X200/X201) with a modern mainboard from TP Art, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors, DDR5 RAM support, dual M.2 SSD slots, Thunderbolt 4, and HDMI 2.1. The modification allows users to retain the original display and keyboard while requiring some chassis adjustments. TP Art offers a kit starting at 9, with complete builds beginning at 9, excluding RAM and storage. The popularity of the X210Ai has surged due to rising RAM prices and the demand for reliable, customizable machines. The modified board allows compatibility with Windows 11 and various Linux distributions. Processing times for orders can take up to six months, and cancellations are not allowed once placed.

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

Some Android Phones Can No Longer Access Google Play

Smartphone users are now keeping their devices for an average of two and a half years before upgrading, an increase from 22 months in 2016. Android manufacturers, including Google and Samsung, are now providing seven years of operating system and security updates for their flagship models. Google has restricted access to the Play Store for devices running Android 6 Marshmallow, raising the minimum supported version to Android 7 Nougat, marking the end of support for Marshmallow after nearly 11 years. By December 2025, devices running Android 6 or earlier will account for only 0.4% of the Android install base accessing Play Store services. App developers must adhere to Google's version targeting protocols, which may result in many apps not functioning on older versions like Marshmallow. Users can download apps from alternative sources but must be cautious about compatibility.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

If you’ve spent years hearing Linux is always better, this Windows 11 story might change your mind — it certainly surprised even me

A Linux user, @Puzzleheaded-Sky2284, switched to Windows 11 for practical reasons, citing better compatibility with essential applications like Microsoft Office and Autodesk software. He emphasized that his decision was based on functionality rather than ideological preferences. The discussion highlighted that while Windows 11 has improved in addressing issues related to fragmentation and updates, criticisms remain regarding resource management and Microsoft's policies. Linux continues to attract users due to its high level of control and customization, although it can be less accessible due to fragmentation within the community. Ultimately, the choice between operating systems depends on individual workflows rather than brand loyalty.

Tech Optimizer

July 29, 2026

After rewriting SQLite in Rust, Turso turns its sights on Postgres

Cloud database provider Turso is developing a Postgres-compatible implementation based on its SQLite-compatible database, which was created from scratch in Rust. CEO Glauber Costa believes Postgres can benefit from modernization for cloud-native applications. Turso's SQLite reimplementation, now called Turso, uses a virtual machine architecture that may eventually support other database frontends, including MySQL and Redis. The company initially forked SQLite into libSQL but later pivoted to a cloud service named Turso. They focused on a virtual machine architecture for their rewrite, which translates SQL queries into a custom bytecode language. Turso has developed a Postgres-compatible prototype named pgmicro, which aims to run existing applications with minimal modifications. The company is also working on a database-as-a-cloud service that will allow customers to use various database types on the Turso platform.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

Surface Pro with Snapdragon X2 drops by $450 for back‑to‑school

Microsoft's Surface Pro is currently available with discounts at various retailers, including a notable 21% off the model featuring the Snapdragon X2 Elite processor, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. The device is equipped with advanced Snapdragon X2 Plus and Snapdragon X2 Elite processors, offering over a 50% improvement in graphics performance compared to previous generations. The Surface Pro features a built-in kickstand for easy positioning and is complemented by the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, which is also on sale and compatible with the new model. The Surface Pro has seen a price increase over the past year, but current promotions provide an opportunity for buyers.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Minecraft Java Edition Now Demands 16GB RAM in First Hardware Overhaul in 17 Years

Mojang Studios has updated the system requirements for Minecraft: Java Edition for the first time in 17 years, raising the recommended memory to 16GB of RAM. The new minimum specifications include a 64-bit operating system, a quad-core CPU, a graphics card supporting Vulkan 1.3 API with at least 2GB of VRAM, and 8GB of system RAM for discrete GPUs or 12GB for integrated graphics. For the recommended "Fancy" preset, 16GB of system memory, a current-generation processor, and a graphics card with 6GB or more of VRAM are required. Older hardware may struggle to run the game, leading to low frame rates and visual issues. Mojang is transitioning from OpenGL to Vulkan to enhance game performance and visuals. Players can still use Minecraft: Bedrock Edition for lower system requirements or community optimization mods like Sodium to improve performance on less capable hardware.