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Winsage
May 4, 2026
Microsoft is replacing the legacy File Explorer Properties dialog box in Windows 11 with a modern version powered by WinUI 3. This change aims to improve the performance and reliability of Windows 11. The current Properties dialog does not support dark mode, which has been an issue for users. Recent findings from Windows 11 Insider builds indicate that Microsoft is actively developing a new file properties dialog. Strings for “DeletedFileProperties” have been discovered, suggesting the old dialog will be replaced. Microsoft is also modernizing outdated Windows 8 UI elements within Windows 11. The introduction of the WinUI 3 properties dialog is expected to enhance File Explorer's performance by streamlining its hybrid codebase. Users can anticipate gradual updates throughout 2026, with a rollout to the Experimental channel expected later this year.
AppWizard
May 3, 2026
An Early Access mod titled Requiem for Ravenholm by FlamingosPeak Workshop reimagines Resident Evil 9 with elements from the Half-Life universe, featuring characters like Leon as Gordon Freeman and Victor as the G-Man. The mod is not a complete overhaul but offers a glimpse of what a new Half-Life installment might look like. Users should expect bugs and visual inconsistencies, which the developers plan to fix in updates. The mod is available for download, accompanied by a trailer. Other mods for Resident Evil Requiem include a VR mod, a dismemberment mod, an increased zombie count mod, and a whimsical mod that replaces Licker voices with Michael Jackson's. A video showcasing fixed camera angles for Resident Evil is also available. Resident Evil Requiem is noted as one of the most optimized PC games of 2026, supporting real-time Path Tracing, with a detailed PC Performance Analysis available for review.
TrendTechie
May 3, 2026
Fractal Design has launched the Torrent series of cases, including the Torrent Compact, designed for maximum efficiency and airflow. The Torrent Compact supports various motherboard sizes (E-ATX, ATX, mATX, Mini-ITX) and features a top-mounted power supply, seven expansion slots, and multiple fan and radiator mounting options. It includes two 180 mm Dynamic X2 fans, capable of moving 153 CFM of air, and has a net weight of 7.7 kg with dimensions of 450 x 222 x 467 mm. The case offers three 2.5" drive bays and one 3.5" drive bay, along with front panel ports including USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C and USB 3.0. The design emphasizes unobstructed airflow and includes a removable dust filter. The case is equipped with a PWM-controlled hub for up to nine fans and features a dedicated mounting hole for custom cooling loops. The assembly process is standard, though the top-mounted power supply and limited cable management space may pose challenges. The case's performance was tested with high-end components, demonstrating effective cooling capabilities, although the fans can produce noticeable noise at maximum speeds.
AppWizard
May 3, 2026
Plants vs. Zombies features a main Adventure mode with various minigames and side activities that enhance gameplay. Players earn coins from defeated zombies and minigames, with the Zen Garden providing a steady income for upgrades at Crazy Dave's car boot sale. Notable minigames include Beghouled, Last Stand, and I, Zombie, each offering unique gameplay experiences. The game combines humor, creativity, and strategic elements, keeping players engaged despite its casual nature.
Winsage
May 3, 2026
Microsoft has restructured its Windows team to enhance Windows 11 and restore user confidence. A new preview build will hide the MSN feed by default, allowing access to widgets on a dedicated page. The latest optional non-security preview update includes reliability upgrades and AI agents. Windows 11 now features Xbox Mode, providing a full-screen, controller-friendly interface for gamers. Significant improvements have been made for Xbox Series X|S consoles and the Xbox app on PC. The original Xbox dashboard has been reverse-engineered for use as a PC launcher. A new custom Android launcher, METROV, recreates the Windows Phone 8.1 experience, while community efforts like 8Marketplace are reviving Windows Phone 8 through restored app access.
AppWizard
May 3, 2026
YouTuber Ocelot has analyzed the various versions of Half-Life 2, highlighting significant differences among them. The retail version was enhanced during its re-release in the Orange Box, which included a higher-resolution Alyx. The game received a major update for its 20th anniversary, featuring improvements such as better lighting effects, refined fire and blood visuals, changes to G-Man's eye design, and variations in cloth texture shininess. Notably, the original version lacked on-screen chapter titles. Ocelot also discussed the evolution of gameplay elements, specifically the buoyancy puzzle in Route Kanal, which was more challenging in earlier builds but has been simplified in the current version. Additionally, he explored console ports and a rare Japanese arcade version that included multiplayer and a condensed story mode.
Winsage
May 2, 2026
A Reddit user created a personal computer inspired by HAL 9000 from "2001: A Space Odyssey," using an NZXT H1 case and running on Windows XP Legacy Update. The hardware configuration includes a third-generation Intel Core i7 CPU, a discrete GeForce GTX 780 graphics card, and 4 gigabytes of RAM. The design combines retro aesthetics with modern functionality, prioritizing performance and compatibility with vintage software.
Winsage
May 2, 2026
Microsoft will begin rolling out the May 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 on May 12, 2026. Key features of this update include: 1. Xbox Mode: Transforms PCs into a console-like experience, prioritizing system resources for gaming and freeing up to 2GB of memory. 2. Voice Typing Improvements: Redesign of Voice Typing elements on the touch keyboard. 3. New Arabic 101 Legacy Keyboard Layout: Available for addition from the Region page in Settings. 4. Drop Tray Changes: Renamed from Drag Tray and can be disabled in Settings > System > Multitasking. 5. Taskbar AI Agents Support: Allows monitoring of AI agents directly from the Taskbar, starting with the Microsoft 365 Copilot app. 6. Debloat Policy with Dynamic List Support: Enables administrators to specify additional apps for removal beyond the default list. 7. Windows Driver Policy Update: Changes how the kernel manages trust for third-party drivers, eliminating default trust for cross-signed drivers. 8. Batch File Security Changes: Enhances security for batch files and Command Prompt scripts, with an option for a hardened processing mode. 9. Format FAT32 up to 2TB: The format command-line tool now supports formatting volumes up to 2TB using FAT32.
AppWizard
May 2, 2026
Control Resonant is a sequel that takes players from the isolated setting of the Oldest House to the reimagined streets of Manhattan, described as a "labyrinth." The game features a new protagonist, Dylan Faden, who can navigate the environment in unique ways. The developers aim for a grounded aesthetic to enhance the supernatural elements and have avoided references from other games to maintain originality. The narrative expands with multiple factions and a variety of enemy types, including a haunted bus. The Hiss remains a central threat, affecting both humans and animals. Dylan will use a radio to communicate with his handler, Zoe, and will encounter audio logs that deepen the lore. Control Resonant is set to launch in 2026.
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