guidance Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft president reflects on 50-year anniversary, AI, innovation and community impact

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AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Gemini could be the next Google service reimagined for kids

Google is developing a child-friendly version of its AI chatbot, Gemini, as indicated by code references found in the Google app for Android version 16.12.39. This version may include a welcome screen for children and features such as story creation, question answering, and homework assistance. Google has implemented protective measures for teenagers using Gemini, including strict content policies to prevent exposure to age-inappropriate material. The company has also introduced other child-friendly features, such as Google Wallet for kids, and has previously collaborated with Samsung on the Galaxy Watch for Kids and offers the Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch for children.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Psycho Patrol R, the FPS-Mech sim from the creator of Cruelty Squad, is one of the most challenging, complicated games I’ve ever played⁠—and worth every second it took to figure out its deal

Psycho Patrol R is an early access game that combines immersive simulation, mech combat, and open-ended role-playing. Players assume the role of a bureaucrat-officer in the European Federal Police in an alternate-history 2000, tasked with investigating thought crimes. The game features a hardcore design, requiring patient exploration and experimentation. Players can pilot a mech called the "V-Stalker," which operates on a milsim framework. Weapons are acquired from defeated enemies, and players can customize their character and mech at EFP HQ. The game has a unique saving system involving a holographic globe, and players drop currency upon death, which can be lost permanently if not retrieved. Money serves as both currency and experience points, and players can earn it through missions and eliminating wealthy NPCs. Character stats influence gameplay, and a fatigue meter affects player performance. The Detective class is recommended for its hacking tool and high perception stat. The hacking minigame requires players to input passwords and manipulate characters into recognizable words. Advanced tips include targeting specific NPCs for cash and exploring thoroughly for loot. An eight-minute video guide offers strategies for newcomers.

Winsage

March 31, 2025

Microsoft redesigns Windows 11 24H2’s BSOD, drops QR code, frowning face, blue colour

Microsoft is retiring the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in favor of a new Black Screen of Death in the upcoming Windows 11 24H2 build. The new design features a black background and omits the frowning face, which has raised concerns about clarity. The Black Screen of Death indicates a significant issue requiring a restart but resembles the Windows Update screen, potentially causing confusion. It simplifies the message to “Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart,” reducing the amount of technical information previously provided, which could hinder troubleshooting for IT administrators.

AppWizard

March 30, 2025

Pixel to Reality: Director Jared Hess’s Challenge Brining ‘Minecraft’ To The Big Screen

A Minecraft Movie is an upcoming film featuring stars Jack Black and Jason Momoa, directed by Jared Hess. The story follows four individuals who are transported through a portal into a creative realm, guided by a master crafter. The film aims to transform Minecraft's 16-bit aesthetic into a live-action experience and is set to be released in theaters on April 4th.

AppWizard

March 29, 2025

It still makes me uneasy that my hundreds of Steam games can’t be passed on when I die, at least not without violating the EULA

Shoot Many Robots was delisted from Steam at the request of its publisher, but it remains in the owner's Steam library. Steam's terms of service classify bequeathing an account as account sharing, limiting legitimate access for others. The gaming industry is experiencing volatility with frequent shutdowns of live service games, leading to calls for prioritizing game preservation, exemplified by the 'Stop Killing Games' campaign. GOG offers DRM-free titles and allows users to bequeath their libraries to heirs with proof of death, but acknowledges the lack of legal guidance on video game preservation. There is a growing demand for more robust frameworks governing game ownership and sustainable digital alternatives for future generations.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Report: Discord is preparing to go public

Discord is reportedly planning to launch its initial public offering (IPO) as early as this year, according to a Bloomberg report. The company has partnered with Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan Chase for guidance in this process. In 2021, Discord was involved in acquisition talks with Microsoft and aimed for a billion-dollar valuation during a fundraising round. In 2022, there was speculation about a potential direct listing instead of a traditional IPO. CEO Jason Citron indicated that Discord would "probably go public" at some point, reflecting confidence in the company's future.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

Pentagon issued Signal warning before Trump war group chat leak: Report

Pentagon officials issued a warning about the Signal messaging application after The Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg was inadvertently included in a group chat with high-ranking Trump administration officials discussing sensitive military strategies, including potential airstrikes in Yemen. An email disclosed a "vulnerability" in Signal, stating that the app is a target for Russian hacking groups that exploit its "linked devices" feature to monitor conversations. The email advised against using Signal for storing nonpublic unclassified information, although it can be used for "unclassified accountability/recall exercises." President Trump and Senators Mark Warner and Angus King commented on the situation, with concerns raised about the potential risks to national security. The administration is reviewing the incident, but no officials have indicated plans to resign.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

Minecraft Movie Starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa Is Out Next Week

“A Minecraft Movie” is set to be released on April 4, 2025, as the first live-action adaptation of the popular video game. The film is directed by Jared Hess and features Jason Momoa as Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison, Jack Black as Steve, Emma Myers as Natalie, Danielle Brooks as Dawn, and Jennifer Coolidge in a mysterious role. Production wrapped in April 2024, and the film will be available in standard theaters and IMAX. The storyline follows four misfits who are transported into the Overworld of Minecraft, where they must learn to build, craft, and survive with the help of Steve. The film aims to recreate Minecraft’s aesthetics using CGI and will include familiar gameplay mechanics and beloved creatures from the game. Promotional events include McDonald’s themed Happy Meals launching on April 1, 2025, featuring collectible toys and a new sauce. An in-game event titled “A Minecraft Movie” will run from March 25 to April 7, 2025, offering quests and rewards in Minecraft. The film is expected to receive a PG rating and has a rumored runtime of approximately 108 minutes. The marketing campaign targets both fans and new audiences through digital promotions and merchandise. The film's visual effects team aims to blend practical and digital effects to authentically represent Minecraft's mechanics. The score is composed by Mark Mothersbaugh, and the cinematography is handled by Enrique Chediak. Mojang Studios is involved in the production to ensure the film aligns with the game's spirit. The film's themes include adventure, community, and creativity, reflecting the core elements of Minecraft. Initial fan reactions to the trailer have been mixed, but anticipation remains high.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Days after the Signal leak, the Pentagon warned the app was the target of hackers

A Pentagon advisory warns against using the messaging application Signal for any communications, even unclassified ones, due to a vulnerability exploited by Russian hacking groups. This follows an incident where a journalist was inadvertently included in a Signal chat about military operations in Yemen. The advisory, dated March 18, indicates that Signal is not authorized for processing or storing non-public unclassified information, despite previous guidance allowing its use for unclassified accountability exercises. A 2023 Department of Defense memo also prohibited using mobile applications for controlled unclassified information. The accidental inclusion of a journalist in sensitive discussions is termed “spillage,” which can endanger military careers. Signal's spokesman stated that the memo does not reflect concerns about the app's inherent security but emphasizes vigilance against phishing attacks.