Emulation Archives

BetaBeacon

May 22, 2026

This OLED Android handheld is great for PS2 games, and it just got a cheaper model

ANBERNIC has released an 8GB/128GB version of the RG577 handheld, which is currently being sold for a discounted price on their website. The device features a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset, a 5.48-inch OLED screen, a 5,500mAh battery, and other notable specs. Despite facing competition from other handhelds with OLED screens and Snapdragon chipsets, the RG577 is still considered a capable Android handheld option under 0.

Winsage

May 21, 2026

Winhanced is getting better, but I still use Xbox Mode with my Windows 11 handheld

The ROG Xbox Ally X, branded as a portable Xbox by Microsoft, has a complex update process involving Xbox Mode, Asus' Armory Crate, and Windows 11. Xbox Mode has improved recently, adding features like third-party launcher integration and enhanced stability. Winhanced, a third-party launcher for Windows 11 handhelds, offers a customizable interface and supports cloud gaming, but has reliability issues and struggles with automatic artwork sourcing. Users can save battery life by adjusting settings for Winhanced's sleep/wake feature. Despite its advantages, Winhanced is not yet a reliable alternative to Xbox Mode, which remains the preferred launcher for handheld gaming. Winhanced is developed by a small team and has shown significant improvement, but it still has limitations compared to Xbox Mode.

Winsage

May 18, 2026

Why Your Windows 11 PC Doesn’t Get AI Features

Several hundred million Windows 11 users are experiencing frustrations due to the absence of Microsoft features like Recall and Cocreator, which are only available on Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft has divided Windows 11 into two tiers, with the latest AI functionalities requiring specific hardware known as Copilot+ PC. To qualify, a device must have: - An NPU capable of at least 40 TOPS - A minimum of 16 GB of RAM (DDR5 or LPDDR5) - At least 256 GB of SSD storage - Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer - A processor from specific families: Qualcomm Snapdragon X series, Intel Core Ultra 200V (Lunar Lake), or AMD Ryzen AI 300 series Many PCs lack these features due to missing NPUs, insufficient TOPS ratings, unsupported processor generations, outdated Windows versions, rollout delays, or regional limits. Features locked behind Copilot+ include Recall, Click to Do, Cocreator in Paint, Windows Studio Effects, Live Captions with Translation, Improved Windows Search, and Auto Super Resolution. To check for Copilot+ compatibility, users can verify the presence of an NPU in Task Manager, ensure they have Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer, and confirm their processor against the approved list. While some workarounds exist to enable features on unsupported PCs, they are often unstable and not recommended for primary use. Most users may not need to upgrade their laptops unless they require on-device AI features or their current device is significantly outdated. The AI feature gap is not currently critical for most users, as many features are optional or not essential.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Windows on ARM Security: How to Protect ARM-Based Windows Devices Without Gaps

The transition to Windows on ARM devices is increasing across various sectors, with organizations drawn to their performance, efficiency, and battery life. However, there are concerns about securing these devices without introducing vulnerabilities. Windows on ARM security involves safeguarding ARM64-based Windows devices with endpoint security solutions optimized for ARM architecture. The lack of native ARM64 endpoint protection can leave devices vulnerable. Windows on ARM devices operate on ARM64 architecture, differing from traditional x86/x64 systems, which can lead to incomplete protection, performance issues, and compatibility challenges with legacy security tools. This creates security gaps, making ARM-based devices attractive targets for threats like ransomware. To secure ARM-based Windows endpoints effectively, organizations need native ARM64 endpoint protection that ensures optimal performance, consistent protection across all devices, and centralized policy management. Morphisec offers native ARM64 endpoint protection, focusing on preventing threats before execution and providing seamless deployment and management. Without native support, organizations risk fragmented security tools, an expanded attack surface, and operational inefficiencies. Implementing native ARM64 endpoint protection allows for standardized security, simplified processes, and enhanced resilience against advanced threats.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Android Apps on Windows 11: Safe Alternatives After WSA

In 2025, Microsoft announced it would discontinue support for the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), making Android applications non-functional on Windows 11. This decision surprised many users in Indonesia who relied on these applications. HP developed a guide outlining secure alternatives to WSA, which included reputable Android emulators like BlueStacks, LDPlayer, and NoxPlayer, as well as native Windows alternatives such as Microsoft Teams and Microsoft 365 apps. Users were advised against unverified APK sideloading, unofficial emulators, and modified apps due to security risks. Microsoft’s end of support means no further security updates or bug fixes will be provided, and integration with the Amazon Appstore will cease. Users can continue using WSA apps, but they will be exposed to potential security threats. To migrate data from WSA, users were instructed to inventory apps, research alternatives, and export app data before performing a clean uninstall. Best practices for running Android apps safely on Windows included downloading from official sources and keeping software updated.

BetaBeacon

May 12, 2026

Why GameHub 6.0 is a Massive Leap for PC Emulation on Android

The redesigned user interface in GameHub 6.0 focuses on making navigation more intuitive, with two new view modes for customization. The app also allows users to log in directly to their Steam or Epic Games Store accounts, simplifying access to existing game libraries. The update introduces performance improvements, including frame generation technology and compatibility with Proton and Wine for a smoother gaming experience. GameHub 6.0 is optimized for high-end devices, with customizable GPU drivers and device-specific optimizations. Community-driven profiles for game settings and other features enhance gameplay, while some limitations are expected to be addressed in future updates. Extensive testing has been done on various devices, with high-end devices showing the most noticeable performance improvements. Overall, GameHub 6.0 Beta sets a new standard for mobile gaming applications and promises a promising future for Android gaming.

AppWizard

May 10, 2026

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Unofficial PC Port Released

The first unofficial native PC port of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has been released, allowing players to experience the game without emulation. This PC version features uncapped framerates, enabling gameplay beyond 30FPS or 60FPS. The developers used a system called Dusk, which allows the game to render frames faster than the game world updates while maintaining the original game's behavior. The port includes full Gyro aim support, compatibility with the Steam Deck, and several quality-of-life improvements such as fast climbing, dialogue skipping, quick transformations, and using Sun’s Song to alter the time of day. Players need to provide their own North American (NTSC) or European (PAL) GameCube ROM file of Twilight Princess, as support for the Wii version is not available. Sharing download links for ROM files is prohibited. Other unofficial PC ports are available for titles like Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, and Crash Team Racing.

BetaBeacon

May 8, 2026

Android gets Vulkan-base Lossless Scaling frame generation, allowing Android devices to achieve triple-digit FPS in PC games

Frame generation technology, previously common in PC gaming, is now available on Android devices through a new Vulkan-based iteration of Lossless Scaling's technology. This technology can be accessed through a standalone version or GameHub, both requiring the purchase of Lossless Scaling for .99 on Steam. LSFG on Android offers features such as up to an 8x frame generation multiplier, performance mode, HDR mode, anti-artifact mode, and flow scale adjustment. Despite some limitations, such as noticeable artifacting and added latency, this technology can significantly improve frame rates on Android devices, particularly for PC game emulation.

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

Linux running on a PS5 turns it into a Steam Machine that plays PC games

Researcher Andy Nguyen has developed a method to convert a PlayStation 5 into a Linux-based device, similar to a Steam Machine. This modification is only possible on launch-era PS5 consoles running system software version 4.5 or earlier, which dates back to December 2021. The process involves using a specific exploit to boot the operating system from a USB stick or the console's M.2 SSD expansion slot. The setup allows access to Ubuntu 26.04 LTS, utilizing 15GB of memory, all eight cores of the Zen 2 processor at 3.5 GHz, and all 36 compute units of the RDNA 2 GPU at 2.23 GHz. Users can control cooling by increasing fan speeds for overclocking. The output resolution is limited to 1080p, with performance tests showing comparable frame rates to the native PS5 environment for games like Black Myth Wukong, Crimson Desert, and Pragmata. However, issues such as stuttering and artifacting may occur due to the Proton compatibility layer and memory management challenges. This experiment suggests potential for emulation and playing PlayStation 3 games at enhanced settings.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

PlayStation 5 Linux Tested: Steam PC vs Native PS5 Games

Linux has been successfully implemented on the PlayStation 5, allowing users to run an open operating system on the console. This implementation, led by security researcher Andy Nguyen (TheFlow), utilizes an exploit for PS5 consoles with system software versions up to 4.5. Users can boot Linux from a USB or SSD, with Ubuntu 26.04 LTS providing around 15GB of usable memory. The PS5's hardware, including its Zen 2 processor and GPU, is fully accessible, with CPU speeds reaching up to 3.5GHz and GPU speeds up to 2.23GHz when boost mode is activated. However, running Linux on the PS5 presents challenges, such as sourcing a unit with the required firmware and limitations in resolution, as users cannot exceed 1080p. Performance tests showed that Linux can match the PS5's performance in some titles, but issues with memory management were noted, leading to stuttering and crashes in certain games. For example, reducing texture quality improved performance in games like Pragmata, while rendering issues were observed in Crimson Desert. The implementation allows for a unique gaming experience, but it also highlights the complexities and limitations of running Linux on a gaming console.