expectations Archives

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Something Happened ⭐

Microsoft's relationship with Windows has been challenging since the Windows 8 era, particularly under CEO Satya Nadella. The launch of Windows 11 faced criticism, leading to expectations of further decline. However, Microsoft has recently shown optimism about Windows 11. Despite a shift in focus towards cloud computing and AI, Windows continues to generate significant revenue, primarily from Fortune 500 companies. The user community has diminished, with many remaining users relying on Windows for professional tasks. Microsoft's neglect of Windows has left loyal supporters feeling abandoned. Antitrust scrutiny is returning, particularly regarding cloud computing practices. In August 2025, Pavan Davuluri was appointed president of the Windows + Devices division, leading to a reorganization aimed at integrating Windows client and server development. Recent initiatives indicate a renewed focus on quality and security, with efforts to address user concerns and improve functionality.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

Microsoft is keeping Secure Boot alive with Windows updates

Microsoft is enhancing the security of Windows devices by replacing boot-level security certificates that are nearing expiration, with this initiative integrated into regular Windows platform updates. The original Secure Boot certificates from 2011 will expire between June and October 2026, prompting Microsoft to issue new certificates in 2023, which are included in many new Windows devices sold since 2024. Older hardware will require updates to remain compliant. Devices with expired certificates will continue to operate but will enter a "degraded security state," potentially hindering future updates and causing compatibility issues. The new Secure Boot certificates rollout began with the Windows 11 KB5074109 update. Most Windows 11 users will have the new certificates installed automatically, while specialized systems may have different update protocols. Windows 10 users must enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates to receive the new certificates.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Most popular messaging apps 2025| Statista

Companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their core strategies by reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring ethical sourcing. This shift reflects changing consumer expectations and enhances brand loyalty. Additionally, businesses are leveraging technology through artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics to streamline operations and improve customer engagement. Fostering strong customer relationships is emphasized through personalization, community engagement, and feedback mechanisms, which strengthen loyalty and position businesses favorably in the marketplace.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

February is surprisingly light on cozy game launches but we’re looking forward to these chill picks you shouldn’t miss

Cozy gaming is gaining popularity within the PC gaming community, characterized by charming aesthetics and relaxing gameplay. A special section is dedicated to cozy games, highlighting smaller titles. The Steam Next Fest on February 23 will feature many cozy game demos. Notable cozy game picks for February include: - Reigns: The Witcher: A game that parodies Tinder's swiping mechanics with moral dilemmas faced by Geralt. - Creature Kitchen: A puzzle game where players cater to whimsical characters through cooking and problem-solving. - Bento Blocks: A puzzle game focused on slicing and arranging sushi ingredients into lunchboxes, evoking nostalgia. - Reanimal: A game with horror elements that offers a captivating experience, diverging from typical cozy aesthetics.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Got a Remastered Mod

Ubisoft announced the cancellation of the remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, which was initially unveiled in September 2020 and faced multiple delays. The project was ultimately halted due to not meeting quality standards. In response to this cancellation, a mod called Sands of Time Remastered Mod has been released for PC gamers, enhancing the original game with high-quality textures and improved HD cutscenes. The mod also revamps the Dagger of Time's appearance and allows for additional visual enhancements using Reshade. The mod is available for download, but installation instructions can be found on the NexusMods page. Screenshots of the mod have been shared, showcasing the improvements.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

New Free Steam Horror Game Releases to a 100% User Review Score

Terminal Lucidity is a free horror puzzle game on Steam with a perfect user review score, although this may be inflated due to its recent release and limited reviews. Developed by Happy Accident Studios, it features intricate puzzles that elicit mixed reactions from players. The game casts players as a technician maintaining supercomputers underground, requiring them to decipher terminal languages to uncover hidden truths. User feedback is positive, with players enjoying the problem-solving aspects, though the game lacks a save feature, leading to varied completion times. Compatibility with the Steam Deck is currently unknown.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

After joking about buying Amazon MMO New World, Rust boss says to “keep hope” as he signs NDA with an “unnamed company”

Alistair McFarlane, head of Facepunch Studios, has expressed interest in reviving the canceled Amazon MMO, New World, and has made a light-hearted offer for its rights. He is entering a non-disclosure agreement with an unnamed company, urging fans to keep "low expectations." McFarlane engaged with the New World community by jokingly tagging Amazon Games and discussing the planned shutdown of the New World: Aeternum servers in January 2027. He believes in empowering the community through public server hosting if a deal occurs. McFarlane has acknowledged the game's rough start and lack of long-term support but sees potential for its revival. Facepunch Studios prioritizes community engagement, as demonstrated by the ongoing success of their game Rust. The identity of the unnamed company remains undisclosed, but speculation points to Amazon Games. McFarlane emphasizes that discussions are confidential and that there are no confirmed deals or announcements at this time.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

Mighty No. 9 studio Comcept, which somehow still existed, is now officially dead and buried

Mighty No. 9 was launched through a Kickstarter campaign in 2013, led by Keiji Inafune, but faced numerous delays and failed to meet backers' expectations. Comcept, the studio founded by Inafune in 2010, has been formally dissolved, marking the end of its operations. The studio struggled with the development of Mighty No. 9 and faced backlash from backers in 2015. A partnership with Fuze Entertainment to continue development did not materialize, and Comcept's other projects, including ReCore, did not impress. In 2017, Comcept was absorbed into Level-5, and Inafune left in 2024 after launching a Mega Man-inspired NFT collection.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 left a gaping, $28 million hole in Paradox’s year-end financial report

Paradox Interactive's year-end financial report indicates a 23% increase in revenue compared to the same quarter last year, marking it as the company's "second-best quarter ever." However, operating profit decreased by 162%, resulting in an overall loss of 245.4 million Swedish kronor, primarily due to the poor performance of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, which led to a write-down of 355 million kronor. Without this write-down, Paradox would have reported a profit of around 110 million kronor, though this would still be less than the previous year's operating profit of 395.3 million kronor. Additionally, fluctuating foreign exchange rates negatively impacted the company's financial results, with the dollar depreciating by approximately 12% and the euro by 5-6%.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

It’s not a myth – Capcom has fixed Monster Hunter Wilds, and I even tested it to find out

Capcom has released a significant patch for Monster Hunter Wilds aimed at improving performance, particularly on PC. The update addresses performance issues, resulting in smoother gameplay with reduced stutters and more stable frame rates across various system configurations. A new CPU options menu allows players to fine-tune settings, reducing the burden on processors. The patch reduces VRAM usage, benefiting players with 8GB GPUs, including those using devices like the Legion Go S handheld. While frame rate boosts may vary, the patch improves the 1% lows, leading to a more consistent experience. Players with high-performance rigs report maintaining around 60 fps during intense battles at a resolution of 3440x1440, achieving frame rates between 62 and 75 fps without frame generation technology. The patch also enables effective use of frame generation, doubling frame rates without sacrificing smoothness. Capcom plans to release additional performance patches in the future.