Winlator is an orchestration layer that combines four open-source projects to run Windows games on Android phones. The projects involved are Wine, Box86, Box64, DXVK, and VKD3D-Proton.
High on Life 2, developed by Squanch Games, is a single-player first-person shooter set to launch on February 13, 2026. The game has faced technical challenges, particularly performance issues on launch day, likely due to the complexities of Unreal Engine 5. Players have reported difficulties with navigation due to the game's detailed graphics, which can obscure critical gameplay elements. Reviewers have criticized the combat mechanics for lacking complexity, noting that the variety of weapons does not adequately address the challenges posed by enemies. High-end systems, including the RTX 5090 and Ryzen 7 9800X3D, have struggled to maintain consistent frame rates, with significant drops in certain levels despite averaging around 90 fps at high settings and 1440p. The recommended specifications include an RTX 4080 and i7-13700KF, indicating potential optimization issues during development. Despite these problems, the game is noted for its charm and lighthearted humor, offering a unique experience in the single-player FPS genre.
Linux Mint is a free operating system that can be downloaded without any licensing fees, in contrast to Windows 11, which costs between 9 for the Home Edition and 9 for the Pro Edition. It has minimal hardware requirements, running efficiently on traditional AMD- or Intel-based systems, with a 3GB installer and support for devices with as little as 2GB of RAM. Linux Mint features a cleaner and more organized desktop interface compared to Windows 11, with three different editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, catering to various user preferences. Users can test Linux Mint risk-free via live USB drives, and it operates without AI features, unlike Windows 11. It collects minimal diagnostic data, prioritizing user privacy. However, Linux Mint does not support major software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft 365 desktop applications, and some hardware drivers may be lacking. Users may need some technical knowledge for optimal use.
Google has unveiled a desktop-class version of Android, potentially named Aluminium OS, through a developer video showcasing a windowed interface designed for PCs with multitasking features. This new operating system could challenge Microsoft’s Windows 11, particularly in low-end laptop and cloud-centric segments. The video features an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook running an internal build of Aluminium OS, which appears to be optimized for larger screens and retains familiar Android indicators. Lenovo has noted potential challenges for Android PCs, including limited desktop features and app compatibility issues. Google may integrate its Gemini technology into Aluminium OS, which features a taskbar with a centrally located Start button and redesigned mouse cursor. The operating system supports multitasking, allowing multiple Google Chrome windows in split-screen mode, and includes an Extensions button. Qualcomm is set to launch next-generation Android PCs later this year.
The author began PC gaming over a decade ago, starting with a second-hand desktop and memorable experiences in games like Skyrim and Assassin's Creed: Black Flag. An upgrade to a 1060 GPU significantly enhanced their gaming experience. The landscape of PC gaming has evolved, with major companies like Sony and Xbox releasing titles on Steam and the introduction of handheld devices like Valve's Steam Deck. In 2025, the Steam Machine and Xbox's ROG Xbox Ally X were unveiled, while payment processor censorship affected Steam Deck users. The author upgraded their GPU during Black Friday sales but faced challenges with high DDR5 RAM prices, leaving their full upgrade incomplete. They express concerns about the financial burden of PC gaming and the impact of censorship on adult games, noting that payment providers like Visa have imposed restrictions. The author reflects on their gaming experiences and encourages others to revisit beloved titles as the year ends.
pgEdge has released new Container Images and an updated Helm chart to improve the deployment of pgEdge on Kubernetes, integrating with CloudNativePG, an open source Kubernetes operator for managing PostgreSQL clusters. The new pgEdge Postgres Container Images support Postgres versions 16 through 18 and are available in two flavors: Minimal and Standard. The updated Helm chart simplifies the management of distributed Postgres architectures, supporting flexible deployment options, automatic failover, and configuration for multi-cluster environments. The releases are designed to enhance operational efficiency and are available on GitHub.
Microsoft has launched a limited edition Crocs bundle celebrating its 50th anniversary, featuring designs inspired by Windows XP's 'Bliss' wallpaper and custom Jibbitz charms representing elements of its legacy, such as Clippy and the Internet Explorer logo. The bundle is available globally following the positive response to the #MicrosoftCrocSweepstakes.
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting over 200 million devices. A student developer, TechnoPorg, has created a free migration tool called Operese to facilitate the transition from Windows 10 to Linux. Operese translates a Windows 10 installation into a Linux setup, preserving data, settings, and applications as much as possible. It uses a customized version of Kubuntu to provide a user-friendly experience. While the tool is still in development and may not support all applications, it aims to offer a smooth migration process. Linux distributions, such as Kubuntu, are compatible with older hardware and provide enhanced privacy and security compared to Windows. TechnoPorg plans to open-source Operese once it is more stable and documented.
Baskin Robbins Japan will launch a Minecraft-themed cake on July 17, 2025, priced at 4,000 yen. The cake measures 11 cm x 16.5 cm and features six flavors: Caramel Ribbon (Skeleton), Chocolate x Chocolate Chip (Zombie), Chopped Chocolate (Enderman), Melon au Lait (Creeper), Popping Shower (TNT), and Very Berry Strawberry (Pig).
