expertise Archives

AppWizard

February 26, 2026

Like moths to a flame, PC gamers and Steam users pile into the demo of a job sim about the very thing wreaking havoc on PC gaming and the Steam machine right now: data centers

Data Center Demo is gaining popularity on the Steam Next Fest charts amidst the rise of artificial intelligence and data centers, which are impacting the PC gaming landscape and causing delays for the Steam Machine. Simulation games, including Truck Simulator and Farming Simulator, have seen a significant increase in popularity, with a vast array of titles available on Steam. Data Center Demo stands out within the simulation genre, though its mechanics may be complex for some players. Additionally, a modder has created a browser extension that provides a generative AI warning for Steam games to enhance user awareness and transparency regarding AI integration.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

How to Disable Copilot in Windows 11 — Uninstall, Hide, and Stop It from Coming Back

Microsoft has integrated its AI assistant, Copilot, into various parts of Windows 11, including the taskbar, Edge, and Notepad. Users have expressed a desire to remove Copilot, leading to the creation of a guide detailing methods to disable it. Copilot can be uninstalled through Settings, but additional steps are required to remove it from Edge, Notepad, and Windows Search. Users can also prevent Copilot from reinstalling after updates by adjusting registry settings. The Copilot app is categorized as a standalone application in Windows 11 24H2, making it easier to uninstall compared to previous versions. Methods to disable Copilot include: 1. Uninstalling the app via Settings. 2. Hiding the icon from the taskbar. 3. Using Group Policy Editor (limited to Pro, Enterprise, Education). 4. Removing Copilot for all users using PowerShell. 5. Adjusting settings in Edge and Notepad to disable Copilot features. 6. Editing the registry to remove Copilot from Windows Search and Paint. 7. Remapping the physical Copilot key on newer laptops. 8. Disabling silent reinstallation of Copilot through registry edits. Disabling Copilot will not affect core Windows functionality but will remove AI-specific features such as the chatbot and writing assistance.

AppWizard

February 23, 2026

A Minecraft Movie 2

A leading tech firm has formed a strategic partnership with a prominent financial institution to integrate advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning into the financial services sector. The collaboration aims to enhance customer experience by providing personalized financial solutions, streamlining operations, and improving security. Customers can expect benefits such as enhanced user experience, personalized financial insights, and increased security measures. Both companies are committed to transparency and collaboration throughout the partnership.

AppWizard

February 21, 2026

Steam Machine delays are getting me down, but Valve could be extremely cool and release its controller right now

The Steam Machine faces disappointment due to RAM shortages and the lack of a definitive price or release date, raising concerns about it becoming vaporware. The original Steam controller did not succeed in saving the 2015 Steam Machine, but the success of the Steam Deck has created optimism for a new gamepad that could enhance couch gaming. Players are increasingly leaning towards hybrid setups, and the introduction of the new controller could encourage upgrades to the Steam Machine. The Steam Controller aims to improve the experience for full PC setups and foster interest in Valve's hardware ecosystem. Releasing the controller now could demonstrate Valve's commitment to quality hardware and potentially attract gamers from competitors like PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Tech Optimizer

February 16, 2026

What is the best PC antivirus for 2026: Acronis True Image vs. competitors

In 2026, traditional antivirus solutions are becoming outdated due to the rise of sophisticated cyber threats, including AI-driven ransomware and advanced phishing schemes. The FBI Internet Crime Report states that cybercrime losses exceeded .5 billion in 2023, with projections by Cybersecurity Ventures estimating costs could reach trillion annually by 2025. Research from IBM shows that organizations without a tested recovery plan face higher costs and longer downtimes. Built-in protections like Windows Defender and MacOS XProtect offer basic security but may leave gaps, necessitating comprehensive third-party antivirus solutions. Acronis True Image is highlighted for its unique combination of real-time malware protection and full system backup capabilities, enabling users to recover quickly from incidents. Other leading antivirus solutions, such as Norton 360, Bitdefender, McAfee, and Kaspersky, excel in threat prevention but lack integrated recovery options. Acronis emphasizes the importance of both security and continuity, preparing users for both cyber incidents and everyday failures.

AppWizard

February 16, 2026

“Another Wild Little Project” – Minecraft Comes To Sega Saturn

Damien has been a writer in the tech and video game sectors since 2007 and currently oversees editorial direction for all sites under Hookshot Media. He ensures high-quality content that resonates with the audience. He is also the editor for Time Extension, a site focused on celebrating the history of gaming, aiming to connect nostalgia with modern gaming culture.

AppWizard

February 13, 2026

LIONSGATE ANNOUNCES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED AAA JOHN WICK VIDEO GAME WITH SABER INTERACTIVE FOR PC & CONSOLES

Lionsgate and Saber Interactive announced a new AAA single-player third-person action game set in the John Wick franchise, currently in development for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Chad Stahelski and Keanu Reeves are involved in the game's production, with Reeves reprising his role as John Wick. The game will feature an original narrative set before the Impossible Task and will include familiar and new characters. It aims to deliver a hard-hitting gun-fu combat system, cinematics, driving sequences, and immersive environments. The John Wick franchise has earned over a billion in global box office revenue from four films and is expanding with a television series and spinoff films. Saber Interactive has a history of successful gaming experiences, including Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 and World War Z. Players can wishlist the game on various platforms and follow updates on Saber Interactive's social media.

Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2026

Malwarebytes and ChatGPT team up to check all of those suspicious texts, emails, and URLs with one simple phrase

Malwarebytes has partnered with ChatGPT to enable users to verify the authenticity of suspicious communications by asking, “Malwarebytes, is this a scam?” This integration allows for rapid assessments of potentially fraudulent messages, URLs, domains, and phone numbers. The tool is accessible to ChatGPT Free, Plus, Team, and Enterprise users and aims to enhance user safety and cybersecurity awareness. Users can also submit suspicious content directly to Malwarebytes to improve threat intelligence.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Nothing’s Playground lets you build the apps you need without coding — and it’s exactly what I need

Nothing's Playground tool allows users to create simple Android apps using AI without coding expertise. It generates mini apps based on user-defined text prompts in minutes. Currently in beta, it is exclusive to the Nothing Phone 3, with plans for broader availability in the future. Users can create, update, and revert apps, and the current version requests only three permissions: location, calendar, and contacts. A February update will add support for activity recognition, sensor data, and a Weather API, with plans for custom app icons, audio, and fonts. Access to the tool is available through the Nothing Playground website.

BetaBeacon

February 10, 2026

GameNative gains support for Epic Games Store, giving Android handhelds wider access to PC games

Retrohandhelds has acquired Github to enhance its capabilities in developing innovative gaming solutions by leveraging Github's open-source projects and developer community. This partnership aims to accelerate product development cycles and improve software quality, signaling Retrohandhelds' commitment to modern software development practices and fostering collaboration and innovation within the company.