Grace Archives

AppWizard

August 21, 2026

Google’s Android Sideloading Rules Take Shape: Installation Won’t Be Blocked, but Apps from Unverified Developers Will Be Intercepted

Google has introduced a new app installation framework called "Advanced Flow," which allows sideloading of apps on Android devices but requires developers to complete real-name verification. Applications signed by unverified developers will be flagged during installation. Users can still sideload apps, but must enable "Developer Options" and acknowledge risks associated with unverified software. A 24-hour waiting period is imposed after enabling Developer Options, with options for permanent or temporary toggling. Google plans to enforce these developer verification requirements starting September 30 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global rollout expected by 2027. ADB installations are not subject to these restrictions.

AppWizard

August 21, 2026

I’m a decade-plus FromSoftware sicko, and these are my 5 takeaways from the first Duskbloods gameplay

Veteran Soulsborne YouTubers VaatiVidya and Oroboro have shared gameplay videos and insights about The Duskbloods, an exclusive PvPvE title for the Switch 2. The game features design elements reminiscent of Nightreign and evokes the aesthetics of Bloodborne, including hooded ogres, a map similar to Yharnam, and a cathedral roof boss resembling those from Dark Souls. Duskbloods is characterized by vertical level design, akin to Shadow of the Erdtree and Nightreign. Concerns exist regarding the game's multiplayer sustainability and the desire for a PC version, as many believe it would better capture the essence of Bloodborne.

AppWizard

August 18, 2026

Game Pass needs to nail three things to stay alive

Microsoft raised the price of Game Pass Ultimate to .99 per month during the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, but later reduced it to .99 per month after layoffs and leadership changes. New Call of Duty titles will now be available on the service a year after their initial release. Microsoft has invested nearly a decade and approximately 0 billion into Game Pass, which is central to its gaming strategy. An Xbox console ranges from 9 to 9, and many gamers already own devices like smartphones or laptops. Game Pass allows access to a vast library of games on various devices, including tablets and unconventional devices, as long as there is a stable internet connection.

Winsage

August 17, 2026

This hidden Windows 11 setting runs Defender scans you missed

Windows Security includes a Defender antivirus component that performs quick and full scans of files at regular intervals. If the computer is powered down during a scheduled scan, it misses the opportunity for a virus check. Users can configure a grace period in the registry to automatically initiate a forced quick scan after a specified number of days without a scan. To adjust this setting, users need to open the Registry Editor and navigate to HKEYLOCALMACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesWindowsWindows Security.

Winsage

August 15, 2026

Windows 11 24H2, Windows Server 2022, Windows 10 Ent. LTSB 2016 get 60-day cut off warnings

Microsoft has issued a 60-day notice regarding the end-of-life dates for several products, following a previous 90-day warning. Mainstream support for Windows Server 2022 will end on October 13, 2026, affecting all editions. Users of Windows 11 version 24H2 Home and Pro, as well as Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016, will stop receiving updates. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows Server 2025, with an extended support phase lasting until October 14, 2031, for those unable to upgrade immediately. Windows 11 version 24H2 users must upgrade to version 25H2 to continue receiving updates, while Enterprise and Education variants will have a grace period until October 2027. Organizations using Windows 10 Enterprise LTSB 2016 should transition to Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC 2024, with Extended Security Updates available for purchase for those who remain on the older system. A 180-day evaluation build of Windows Server 2025 can be downloaded for compatibility testing.

AppWizard

August 15, 2026

Before Grand Theft Auto Online, GTA 4’s multiplayer added ‘glorious chaos’ to the open world sandbox

Anticipation for the release of GTA 6 is high, with questions about its online mode and PC availability. The console version will launch without an online component to protect the revenue from GTA Online. GTA 4's online mode, discontinued in 2020, remains accessible through platforms like GTA Connected. It transformed the game’s dynamic, offering chaotic multiplayer experiences that contrasted with the serious tone of single-player mode. Players engaged in customizable game modes, such as Turf War and Mafiya modes, and the race mode combined competition with chaos. The multiplayer experience was defined by the unpredictable nature of human players, enhancing the gameplay with absurdity and excitement.

AppWizard

August 14, 2026

Google Play will make rival Android app stores easier to find after judge says it is ‘not acceptable’ yet

A judge has expressed dissatisfaction with the accessibility of third-party Android app stores on Google Play, particularly criticizing the search functionality that makes it difficult for users to find these stores. The launch of Aptoide Games, the first third-party app store on the platform, has highlighted these issues. Google has committed to redesigning the user interface for third-party app stores, changing the “View” button to an “Install” button. Judge Donato has given Google a one-week deadline to address these concerns and has criticized the existing “are you looking for” banner as unnecessary friction in the user experience.

Winsage

August 14, 2026

Microsoft warns users to install Windows 11’s latest update within 3 days, 400+ security bugs fixed

Windows 11's August 2026 Patch Tuesday update has been released, addressing 421 security vulnerabilities, including 400 specific to the Patch Tuesday release. The update rectifies at least 37 remote code execution bugs and five elevation-of-privilege vulnerabilities. Microsoft advises users to implement the update within three days for security. The update includes fixes for other Microsoft products like Entra, Office, and Teams. Users should verify their Windows 11 build number, with recommended versions being 26200.9168 for 25H2 and 26100.9168 for 24H2. The update is identified as KB5121003 and may require up to two reboots to apply fully. Key areas of focus in the update include the kernel, Remote Desktop, DNS, DHCP, SMB, and Windows Defender Firewall. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of timely updates and recommends limiting the deferral period for quality updates to less than three days.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

Non-linear ghost story adventure game Remaining Grace announced for PC

ambedo studios, led by Quintin Pan, is developing a non-linear ghost story adventure game titled Remaining Grace, set to release on PC and Mac via Steam. The game explores themes of chosen family and human connections through the narrative of Grace Tao and spans three distinct time periods. Players will experience the story through a diverse cast, unraveling the mystery of Grace's death and her relationships with various characters, including her immigrant parents and childhood friends. The game features a unique pencil sketch art style and is set in an alternate-history version of North America called Turtle Island, where colonization never occurred. A trailer and screenshots for the game have been released.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

Weekend PC Game Deals: Witchfire, Avowed, Ninja Gaiden, Ready or Not, and more

The Epic Games Store is offering a giveaway of two titles, We Were Here Together and Beacon Pines, available until August 13. Steam is giving away the action RPG Moonlighter for free until August 9. The August Humble Choice includes eight games, such as Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge Ultimate Edition, available until September 1. Humble also has several bundles, including the Unhinged Indie Anthology collection and the In Your World VR collection. The GOG store features a variety of DRM-free titles. Availability and pricing may vary by region.