debate Archives

Winsage

June 7, 2025

If you’re sick of software subscriptions, check this out

A Microsoft Office Pro lifetime license is available for .97, significantly reduced from its usual price of 9.99. This license includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. It allows installation on a single Windows PC and is tied to the device rather than a Microsoft account. The software supports all languages, includes complimentary customer support, and provides updates at no extra cost.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Windows Weekly 935: Don’t Spritz Yourself

Leo and Paul discuss various topics on the latest episode of Windows Weekly, including Notepad, updates in Windows 11, Microsoft 365, artificial intelligence, and Xbox gaming. A new free newsletter offers time-saving tips and complimentary Field Guides for Windows 11 and Windows 10. Microsoft is reorganizing its AI initiatives and phasing out password management features in the Microsoft Authenticator app. The upcoming June 2025 update for Outlook will introduce new features, and Microsoft 365 Copilot now has general availability for Research and Analyst AI agents. The New York Times has licensed its content to Amazon, and Samsung is reconsidering its partnership with Gemini. Microsoft has delayed the launch of its first-party Xbox and Windows gaming handheld and has secured its first agreement with a game studio union. J Allard, a former Microsoft executive, is among many ex-Microsoft leaders now at Amazon. A tip suggests replacing OneDrive/Google Drive with a NAS, and Microsoft Edge 137 is highlighted as a significant update. Photoshop for Android is now available for free during its beta phase.

Tech Optimizer

June 3, 2025

I learned these 6 antivirus myths for PCs are completely wrong

Antivirus software on Windows was once essential due to security vulnerabilities, but built-in protection in Windows 8 and later versions often suffices for everyday use. Modern third-party antivirus applications are designed to be efficient and have minimal impact on system performance. All operating systems, including macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, are susceptible to malware, contrary to the belief that only Windows needs antivirus protection. Manual virus scans are no longer necessary as modern solutions provide real-time monitoring. Antivirus software should be part of a broader security strategy that includes regular updates and secure online practices. Relying solely on cautious behavior is insufficient, as threats can emerge from various sources. Using antivirus software is still recommended, and users can complement built-in security features with third-party solutions.

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Windows 11 news and updates: Sora video AI comes to Bing while USB-C changes will make all of our lives easier

Microsoft has made adjustments to Windows 11 and Windows 10 to comply with the Digital Markets Act for users in the European Economic Area, including stopping prompts to set Edge as the default browser and automatically pinning users' preferred browsers to the Taskbar. The optional update KB5058499 (OS Build 26100.4202) for Windows 11, released on May 28, 2025, improves gaming stability and includes upgrades to AI tools. OpenAI's Sora AI model is now available globally in the Bing Video Creator within the Bing mobile app. Notepad has added support for Markdown syntax. Microsoft has committed that all USB-C ports on Windows 11 will support data, charging, and display functionalities, with USB4 ports being compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB4 peripherals. The release date for Windows 11 version 25H2 is anticipated between September and October 2025.

AppWizard

June 1, 2025

Why Elden Ring: Nightreign is both a hit and a headache for fans

Elden Ring Nightreign is a multiplayer game developed by FromSoftware, featuring fast-paced combat mechanics and eight distinct characters called Nightfarers, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Players aim to defeat the Nightlord while surviving three in-game days on Limvel Island, facing various bosses and challenges, including a night boss that tests their skills. The game lasts approximately 14 real-time minutes per day, with a storm circle that closes in, causing damage if players do not move. Players can unlock new characters and relics through boss victories. The game is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series consoles, priced at an undisclosed amount. It has received a mixed reception, with a 78% aggregate score on OpenCritic and a "Mixed" rating on Steam from over 31,000 reviews. Players have expressed frustration with solo difficulty and matchmaking issues. In response, FromSoftware plans to release patch 1.02 to introduce automatic revivals for solo players and increase rewards. A mod called Seamless Co-Op allows PC players to team up without needing a third player.

AppWizard

May 30, 2025

Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is free on Epic Games Store

Epic Games and Gearbox are offering a free copy of Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands for PC gamers until June 5th. Players can claim the game from the Epic Games Store, and it will remain in their library permanently. The game features a vibrant world, a multiclass system with six character skill trees, and supports solo or multiplayer modes. It performs well on various PC configurations, though higher resolutions require a robust GPU. Gearbox has removed the Denuvo anti-tamper technology from the game.

AppWizard

May 27, 2025

What are the most secure messaging apps in 2025? Here’s how to keep your online communications safe

A leaked Signal group chat, referred to as Signalgate, has raised concerns about national security and the use of messaging applications for sensitive information exchange. The incident involved former U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of Atlantic, who was mistakenly added to the chat meant for national security leaders discussing military operations. This breach has prompted discussions about the security protocols of digital communication tools used by government officials.

AppWizard

May 23, 2025

Games Inbox: Are video games too expensive on console and PC?

Bethesda's latest game, Doom: The Dark Ages, is priced at £70 for both PC and console and can be completed in about 13 hours. This pricing strategy has raised concerns among gamers, especially since PC games typically have lower price points. Some gamers believe this may be an attempt by Microsoft to promote its subscription service, Game Pass, while others plan to wait for sales. Additionally, there are concerns about Bungie's management following its acquisition by Sony, with critics questioning the effectiveness of such corporate acquisitions in revitalizing franchises. In contrast, Nintendo is innovating with its upcoming Mario Kart World for the Switch 2, moving the series to an open-world format, which has generated excitement among fans. The gaming community remains engaged in discussions about pricing, management, and innovation as the industry evolves.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

Signal resorts to “weird trick” to block Windows Recall in Desktop app

Microsoft's Recall feature indexes a wide range of personal data, including Zoom meetings, emails, photos, medical conditions, and conversations on Signal, affecting both users and their contacts without consent. Researcher Kevin Beaumont found that the feature captures sensitive information like payment card details and can decrypt its database using a fingerprint scan or PIN. Developers, such as those at Signal, lack tools to prevent their content from being indexed by Recall, leading Signal to utilize a Digital Rights Management API to protect privacy. This workaround may help, but it depends on all chat participants using the Windows Desktop version with default settings. Microsoft has not addressed concerns regarding developer control over Recall.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

A delayed review, a controversial GOTY pick, and Big Geralt: PC Gamer’s strange 10-year relationship with The Witcher 3

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt celebrates its 10th anniversary this week, marking its evolution from a niche title to a significant influence in modern fantasy storytelling, partly due to the Netflix adaptation. Upon release, it received a score of 92% from PC Gamer and was recognized as a top title in 2016, despite not winning the Game of the Year award in 2015. The game faced distribution challenges, with console versions prioritized over PC, leading to delays in review copies. The community has embraced various memes, including the "tub scene" and "Big Geralt," contributing to the game's cultural impact. The ongoing conversation about its legacy and anticipation for a sequel keeps the franchise relevant.