February Archives

Winsage

October 15, 2026

Microsoft admits a Windows 11 bug caused mouse stutter in games

Microsoft has addressed a mouse input stuttering issue in various games with the release of security update KB5127648 on October 13, 2026, applicable for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2. Specific details about the affected games, number of users, or the cause of the bug have not been disclosed. Users have reported problems with mouse movements in games like Star Wars: The Old Republic, Final Fantasy XIV, and The Division 2, but it remains unclear if these issues are linked to the Windows bug. To install the fix, users need to check for updates in the "Update & Security" section of the Settings app.

Winsage

October 14, 2026

Microsoft admits a Windows 11 bug is causing stutter in games, and it’s not your mouse or drivers’ fault

Microsoft released the October 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5127648) for Windows 11, which fixes a mouse input stuttering bug affecting certain games. This issue was acknowledged in the release notes, stating that the update resolves the stuttering problem. The fix was not included in the optional preview released on September 22. While specific causes and affected games were not disclosed, anecdotal evidence suggests the problem originated from Windows itself. Users reported erratic mouse behavior in games like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Final Fantasy XIV, with persistent issues even after trying various fixes. The update brings Windows 11 versions to Build 26300.9711 for 26H2, Build 26200.9711 for 25H2, and Build 26100.9711 for 24H2, marking the final release for Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro. An offline installer is available for those having trouble with Windows Update. If stuttering continues, users are advised to check for outdated drivers or other potential issues.

AppWizard

October 10, 2026

Xbox Names Former Reddit Product Chief As CEO of Minecraft Studio Mojang

Xbox has appointed Maria Angelidou-Smith as the new CEO of Mojang and Minecraft, effective October 19, 2025. She succeeds Kayleen Walters, who led Mojang since February 2025 and will now head a new Xbox division called XP. Angelidou-Smith has a background in community-focused products, having worked at Meta, Personio, and Reddit. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma highlighted the importance of community and monetization in her memo regarding the leadership change. Minecraft continues to attract over 300,000 new players daily and is set to introduce a new dimension titled The Sift in 2027.

BetaBeacon

October 8, 2026

Among Us Story: On Guard launches February 17, 2027 for Switch 2, PC, iOS, and Android

Among Us Story: On Guard is a new standalone adventure game set in the Among Us universe that will be launched on February 17, 2027 for Switch 2, PC via Steam, iOS, and Android. The game allows players to become Guards responsible for shipwide security and preventing Impostors from murdering Crewmates.

Tech Optimizer

October 7, 2026

The Best Antivirus Software of 2026: Do You Even Need It?

Antivirus software is evolving as operating systems like Windows 11 and macOS now include robust built-in security measures, reducing the necessity for standalone antivirus solutions. Windows 11 features Microsoft Defender Antivirus, while Macs and Android devices have their own built-in protections. Independent tests show that Microsoft Defender achieved a perfect score in AV-TEST's April 2026 evaluation and performed well in AV-Comparatives' tests. Key antivirus solutions in 2026 include: - Bitdefender Total Security for individuals seeking paid protection. - Microsoft Defender for Windows users wanting free protection. - Norton 360 Deluxe for families, offering comprehensive features. - Avast One as a free third-party protection option. - Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac users seeking extra protection. - Google Play Protect for Android users. Choosing the right antivirus solution depends on factors like device type and user habits. While Microsoft Defender offers solid protection, users seeking comprehensive security may prefer Bitdefender or Norton 360 Deluxe. Avast One is a viable free alternative. Antivirus software cannot prevent all threats, emphasizing the importance of good security habits, such as keeping systems updated and using strong passwords. Modern antivirus solutions are designed to minimize impact on system performance.

Winsage

October 5, 2026

Windows 11 just made testing your internet speed easier

Since late February 2026, Microsoft has introduced a feature in Windows that allows users to test their internet speed directly from the taskbar by right-clicking the network or Wi-Fi icon and selecting "Perform Speed Test." This option directs users to a speed test page on Microsoft's Bing, powered by Ookla's Speedtest service.

AppWizard

October 5, 2026

Metro Redux games get free next-gen upgrade ahead of Metro 2039

Metro 2033 Redux and Metro Last Light Redux will receive complimentary next-generation updates, with the PC version available on October 22 and PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S updates on October 29. The updates are free for existing owners on supported platforms. Enhancements include 4K textures, improved animations, higher-quality audio, richer environmental detail, and community-requested bug fixes. PC updates will feature DLSS, spatial audio, and platform-specific optimizations, while console players will have native support for 4K resolution at 60 fps or upscaled 4K at 120 fps. Specific console features include PS5 Pro's PSSR, Xbox Series X's TSR upscaling, and spatial audio support on Xbox. The Metro series has sold over 50 million copies worldwide, with the next installment, Metro 2039, set for release on February 4.

Winsage

October 4, 2026

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 26H2 is crashing some games and apps, promises to fix it in the next update

In October 2026, Microsoft is addressing ongoing issues from its September updates for Windows 11, particularly related to audio decoding. Certain applications and games using Windows' built-in AC-3 (Dolby Digital) audio decoding may crash when users adjust volume or audio settings. This issue primarily affects older applications and games, while most modern apps are expected to function normally. Microsoft has issued multiple updates, including a mandatory Patch Tuesday update and an emergency patch, but some audio problems remain unresolved. The September updates also introduced a significant increase in security fixes, addressing 974 vulnerabilities compared to 86 in September 2025. Additionally, an emergency update disrupted the functionality of File History, which Microsoft is investigating. An optional update aimed to fix File History but led to new crashes in various applications. Microsoft is currently working on a resolution for the audio-decoding bug without a specified timeline.

AppWizard

October 3, 2026

These 9 Thunderbird features made me ditch Gmail for good

The author switched from Gmail to Thunderbird after 15 years, citing frustrations with Gmail's ad inundation and cluttered features. They appreciate Thunderbird's offline email access, extensive customization options, open-source nature, absence of forced AI features, free distribution without targeted ads, cross-platform compatibility, reliable notifications, effective multi-account management, customizable junk filtering, and its focus solely on email functionality. These aspects have led to a more streamlined and efficient email experience compared to Gmail.

Winsage

October 3, 2026

Microsoft to roll out age verification system on Windows 11

Microsoft is introducing the Windows Age API to enhance user experience on Windows 11 by verifying age brackets without requiring users to disclose their exact birth dates. The API will categorize users into age ranges: under 10, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, or 18 and over, and will indicate whether age status is verified or self-reported. Alongside this, Microsoft is launching the Microsoft Age Verification (MAV) system, allowing users to verify their age once through their Microsoft account, reducing the risk of oversharing personal data. This initiative responds to regulatory scrutiny and stricter global child protection laws requiring platforms to verify user ages. In late 2025, a US court approved a settlement between Disney and the FTC over unauthorized data collection from children under 13, highlighting the need for age assurance technology. In February 2026, the FTC issued guidance supporting age verification technology, stating it would not enforce actions against services collecting personal data for age verification if the data is deleted after processing. The Windows Age API is currently available to Windows Insider users, with plans for broader release, while the MAV system has been rolled out in regions like Singapore, Brazil, and Australia.