NewApp Digest
search bot

enhancements

Google's Gemini for Home is finally useful enough to not drive you crazy
AppWizard
March 18, 2026

Google’s Gemini for Home is finally useful enough to not drive you crazy

Google is updating its Gemini-powered home assistant to enhance user experience by providing concise responses and executing common commands up to 40% faster. Users will now receive straightforward confirmations for actions like setting alarms. The assistant can set timers based on real-world events and chain multiple commands while providing updates on timers. Gemini now supports 30 languages, enabling real-time translation for smoother conversations. The Google Home app includes new automation tools for triggering actions based on conditions and creating personalized routines. New AI features like “Help me create” and “Ask Home” simplify automation processes. Google is expanding access to these features to 14 additional countries, including Canada, which now has full support. Some features require a Google Home Premium subscription, and users may experience delays in receiving updates.
ChatGPT’s free tier gets GPT 5.4 mini model with improved coding capabilities
AppWizard
March 18, 2026

ChatGPT’s free tier gets GPT 5.4 mini model with improved coding capabilities

OpenAI has introduced the GPT 5.4 mini and nano models, making advanced AI capabilities accessible to free users of the ChatGPT platform. The GPT 5.4 mini operates more than twice as fast as its predecessor and closely matches the performance of the larger GPT 5.4 model in key evaluations. These models are designed for environments where latency is critical, excelling in coding, reasoning, multimodal understanding, and tool utilization. The GPT 5.4 mini is available in ChatGPT’s free and Go tiers, as well as in OpenAI’s API and Codex, while the nano variant is accessible exclusively through the API, both at lower costs than the original GPT 5.4 model.
Microsoft has teased a new Notepad feature, and I'm not sure I like it
Winsage
March 18, 2026

Microsoft has teased a new Notepad feature, and I’m not sure I like it

Microsoft is transforming Notepad by integrating features previously exclusive to WordPad, as WordPad is being retired from Windows 11. Upcoming enhancements for Notepad include the introduction of tables, strikethrough formatting, and nested lists. Microsoft has also hinted at the potential for image insertion in Notepad, which may be rolled out if feedback from Windows Insiders is positive.
Death Stranding 2 is the first Decima game with Ray Tracing on PC
AppWizard
March 18, 2026

Death Stranding 2 is the first Decima game with Ray Tracing on PC

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will feature Ray Tracing effects on PC, making it the first title using the Decima engine to support this technology. The integration of Ray Tracing by Nixxes will enhance visual fidelity through improved reflections and ambient occlusion. These features were not included in the initial PC specifications, indicating increased CPU and GPU demands. The game will feature returning characters Norman Reedus, Léa Seydoux, and Troy Baker, as well as new additions Elle Fanning, Shioli Kutsuna, and director George Miller. It will offer features such as uncapped framerates, ultrawide monitor support, DualSense controller compatibility, and various PC upscalers. The release date is set for March 19th, with pre-orders available but no review codes yet provided.
Microsoft's "most significant change to the Windows keyboard" in 30 years gets a slap in the face from a daring developer
Winsage
March 17, 2026

Microsoft’s “most significant change to the Windows keyboard” in 30 years gets a slap in the face from a daring developer

A third-party developer has created a tool called NoCopilotKey that allows users of Windows 11 Copilot+ PCs to remap the dedicated Copilot key back to its original function as the right-side CTRL key. Microsoft introduced the dedicated Copilot key in 2024, claiming it was a significant change in keyboard design, but later suspended the option to remap the key to avoid bugs. Users have expressed mixed feelings about the Copilot key, with some forgetting its function and preferring the traditional CTRL key placement. Microsoft is promoting its Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced AI capabilities, and has announced plans to enhance user experience based on feedback, including the potential reinstatement of taskbar customization features. The company is also reassessing its AI strategy and has decided to eliminate plans for integrating Copilot into notifications and Settings to reduce bloatware.
Microsoft is adding image and AI text support to Notepad in Windows 11
Winsage
March 17, 2026

Microsoft is adding image and AI text support to Notepad in Windows 11

Microsoft is modernizing its Notepad application for Windows 11 by introducing new features, including support for image integration and AI-driven text tools. The image integration will allow users to add images to their documents via a new toolbar button. Notepad will also include AI features such as Write, Rewrite, and Summarise, available through a cloud-based system or on-device using the PC's Neural Processing Unit. The image insertion feature will be enabled by default but can be disabled in settings. Concerns have been raised about the potential security vulnerabilities associated with these enhancements, including a recently disclosed high-severity vulnerability in Notepad.
Android 16 brings desktop windowing to Pixel and Samsung phones
AppWizard
March 17, 2026

Android 16 brings desktop windowing to Pixel and Samsung phones

Google has announced that connected display support for Android has reached general availability with the release of Android 16 QPR3. This feature allows compatible Android phones and foldable devices to initiate a new desktop session on an external display while maintaining the phone's independent state. Supported devices include the Pixel 8, 9, and 10 series, as well as various Samsung devices like the Galaxy S26, Fold7, Flip7, and Tab S11. The collaboration between Google and Samsung has been crucial in developing this feature. The Android 16 QPR3 release has refined windowing behaviors, taskbar interactions, and input compatibility for mouse and keyboard usage. It introduced two new width window size classes: Large (1200dp to 1600dp) and Extra-large (1600dp and above) to assist developers in creating adaptive layouts. Navigation 3 has also been released, providing a system for managing UI flow based on Scenes. Design principles for desktop contexts have been updated, emphasizing the importance of multitasking, efficient use of screen space, and accommodating various input types. The Android Design Gallery has been launched to showcase design examples across different categories and input types. The announcement has implications for mobile advertising and app measurement, as the distinction between mobile and desktop ad inventory becomes more complex. Developers are advised to ensure their apps can adapt to changes in display configurations to maintain ad performance and measurement accuracy. Key dates include the announcement of connected display general availability on March 3, 2026, and the launch of the Android Design Gallery on March 16, 2026.
Minecraft meets Wind Waker? Hytale with airships? Everwind is Steam's latest big early access release, and it could be a winner with time
AppWizard
March 17, 2026

Minecraft meets Wind Waker? Hytale with airships? Everwind is Steam’s latest big early access release, and it could be a winner with time

Two fantasy-themed sandbox titles, Hytale and Enjoy Studio's Everwind, have recently emerged, with Everwind featuring airships as a unique gameplay element. The game invites players to scavenge, craft, and explore in a procedurally generated world made of destructible voxel blocks, reminiscent of Minecraft. Players gather resources to create weapons, armor, tools, and furniture, while the game’s aesthetic evokes a muted, medieval fantasy atmosphere. Everwind's world consists of vast oceans and diverse islands, some floating in the sky. Players can engage in crafting and combat, with a stamina-based system that enhances gameplay. The process of salvaging and constructing airships involves scanning parts for blueprints and gathering essential components. Initial experiences may include challenges such as resource scarcity and unexpected events, but these can lead to deeper exploration. Air travel mechanics allow players to set speed and elevation, though early travel can be slow and lacks engaging distractions. The game is currently in early access and has the potential for growth and improvement over the next year.
Search