functionality Archives

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

I finally fixed my 2 biggest annoyances with Google Messages

Samsung Messages offers features like automatic deletion of old messages, which Google Messages lacks. However, Google Messages is preferred for its seamless integration across Android devices and the Messages for Web functionality. Google Messages allows users to customize swipe gestures, with the option to change left and right swipes for archiving, marking as read/unread, or deleting. It also includes Smart Reply suggestions, which can be edited before sending. Users can disable expressive animations and adjust message sounds and text size for a more personalized experience.

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

Mystery: Android System Service App “Mainline Services” Disappears

The "Mainline services" app, essential for managing "Google Play system updates," was removed from the "System services" section and the "Google Play Store" between July 29 and July 30, 2026. The app was initially introduced around mid-November 2025. Users can still verify "Google Play system updates" through the "System & updates" section in their Android settings. The reasons for the app's removal and its future status are unclear.

Winsage

July 30, 2026

How to remap the Windows 11 Copilot key and restore your missing Right Ctrl button

The Copilot key, introduced by Microsoft on Windows laptops over two years ago, is located to the right of the spacebar and provides access to Microsoft's Copilot AI. This key has been adopted by various manufacturers, including Lenovo, Dell, and HP, and is now found on many laptops even if they are not labeled as Copilot+ models. The key can replace the Right Ctrl key or the Context menu key, which may disrupt users' workflows. Microsoft plans to release an update for Windows 11 that will allow users to remap the Copilot key to function as the Right Ctrl key or the Context menu key. Two methods to remap the Copilot key include using Windows settings and Microsoft's PowerToys Keyboard Manager. Users can test the remapped functionality and revert changes if needed.

AppWizard

July 30, 2026

Some Android Phones Can No Longer Access Google Play

Smartphone users are now keeping their devices for an average of two and a half years before upgrading, an increase from 22 months in 2016. Android manufacturers, including Google and Samsung, are now providing seven years of operating system and security updates for their flagship models. Google has restricted access to the Play Store for devices running Android 6 Marshmallow, raising the minimum supported version to Android 7 Nougat, marking the end of support for Marshmallow after nearly 11 years. By December 2025, devices running Android 6 or earlier will account for only 0.4% of the Android install base accessing Play Store services. App developers must adhere to Google's version targeting protocols, which may result in many apps not functioning on older versions like Marshmallow. Users can download apps from alternative sources but must be cautious about compatibility.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Mod activates split-screen support in Halo: Campaign Evolved PC that’s just sitting there, unused

The PC version of Halo: Campaign Evolved lacks split-screen functionality, which is available on Xbox and PS5. This absence has disappointed players, especially with the rise of living room PCs. A mod called "Halo Campaign Evolved Split-screen Coop," created by Jpurd123, allows for local split-screen play by utilizing existing code in the game. The mod supports only two-player split-screen and has been tested with the Steam version, leaving other platforms potentially unsupported. Additionally, both players must use controllers, as mixing input methods causes issues. Despite these limitations, the mod's quick development reflects the community's dedication to enhancing the gaming experience.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

If you’ve spent years hearing Linux is always better, this Windows 11 story might change your mind — it certainly surprised even me

A Linux user, @Puzzleheaded-Sky2284, switched to Windows 11 for practical reasons, citing better compatibility with essential applications like Microsoft Office and Autodesk software. He emphasized that his decision was based on functionality rather than ideological preferences. The discussion highlighted that while Windows 11 has improved in addressing issues related to fragmentation and updates, criticisms remain regarding resource management and Microsoft's policies. Linux continues to attract users due to its high level of control and customization, although it can be less accessible due to fragmentation within the community. Ultimately, the choice between operating systems depends on individual workflows rather than brand loyalty.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Mid-week Android game and app deals: Aeon’s End, Runic Curse, Quest of Wizard, HOOK, more

An array of Android game and app deals is currently available, featuring titles such as Aeon’s End, Runic Curse, Quest of Wizard, HOOK, Slay the Spire, Inbetween Land (Full), Thimbleweed Park, and The Wild Case Adventure (Full). The Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is discounted by up to 5 and comes with a free pair of Galaxy Buds 4. Additional price drops include various game titles, productivity apps, creative software, and educational resources.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

The biggest flaw with the Galaxy Watch 9 has nothing to do with the watch itself

Purchasing a Samsung Galaxy Watch does not grant access to all its features unless paired with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, despite owning a new Android device. The Samsung Health Monitor app, which includes critical health monitoring features like blood pressure, ECG, irregular heart rhythm, and sleep apnea monitoring, is only officially supported on Samsung smartphones. This app has been available since 2020 and is essential for detecting significant health indicators. Samsung's limitation on the app appears to be financially motivated, as it encourages users to buy Samsung smartphones. Other manufacturers do not impose similar restrictions, allowing their devices' full health features to work across different smartphone brands. Samsung could integrate Health Monitor features into the main Samsung Health app or make it available on the Play Store to increase accessibility, but it has not done so. Users of non-Samsung Android phones are unable to access these health features, which are critical for many individuals.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Minecraft’s system requirements are being raised for the first time in 17 years.

Mojang Studios has updated the system requirements for Minecraft: Java Edition for the first time in 17 years. The recommended memory requirement has increased from 4GB to 16GB. The new minimum requirements for Full HD resolution (1920x1080) at 30 frames per second (fps) include a CPU with four or more cores, a GPU supporting Vulkan 1.3 with at least 2GB of VRAM, and 8GB of memory for dedicated GPUs or 12GB for integrated GPUs. The recommended specifications for 60fps with 'Fancy' graphics settings include 16GB of RAM and 6GB or more of VRAM, with suggested GPUs like the GeForce RTX 2060 or Radeon RX 5600 XT. The old and new requirements show significant increases in memory and processing power, with the new minimum requirements including Windows 10 or 11, macOS 12 or later, and various CPU and GPU specifications. While systems not meeting the new minimum can still run the game, performance may vary, and future updates may affect compatibility. The update is part of a transition to Vulkan technology for improved performance and functionality.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Blizzard’s former Battle.net lead is moving his expertise over to the Epic Games Store to ‘elevate player, creator, and developer experiences’

Epic Games has appointed Martin Keely as the new Vice President and General Manager of the Epic Games Store following Steve Allison's departure. Keely previously worked at Activision Blizzard for seven years, overseeing the Battle.net launcher. He expressed enthusiasm for his new role and aims to enhance player, creator, and developer experiences. The Epic Games Store faces challenges regarding user experience and competition, particularly as the company prepares for Unreal Engine 6 and seeks to improve cross-platform functionality.