Hardware

BetaBeacon
August 18, 2026
- Ads: No - Funding model: Open-source community RetroArch - Base price: Free - Optional paid tier: None - Ads: No - Funding model: Open-source community Winlator - Base price: Free - Optional paid tier: None - Ads: No - Funding model: Donation-funded DraStic - Base price: Free - Optional paid tier: None - Ads: No - Funding model: None public
Winsage
August 18, 2026
China's Ministry of State Security has directed state-linked organizations to remove a tailored version of Windows 10 from their systems, expediting a planned phase-out initially set for February 2027. This directive is driven by data security concerns, although specific vulnerabilities were not disclosed. The customized version, developed by C&M Information Technologies (CMIT), is based on Windows 10 Enterprise but modified to exclude consumer features and ensure updates remain within China. Since its launch in 2017, it has been used by various central agencies. The Chinese government has also encouraged the elimination of foreign-branded computers, leading to the emergence of domestic operating systems. Despite these efforts, as of July 2026, Windows held an 87.64% share of desktop web traffic in China, with Windows 10 accounting for 43.56% of usage. Approximately two in five Chinese desktops still run an unsupported version of Microsoft's software.
AppWizard
August 18, 2026
The creator has designed a new case that features a cartridge pocket with an eject button, allowing for easy cartridge release while maintaining compatibility with existing cartridges. The device operates with a chip at 45W TDP, has a well-engineered airflow system, and is made from carbon-fiber-reinforced PETG with decorative olive-green panels and orange buttons. The logos are laser-engraved with unique Easter eggs. The console uses distinct firmware on an ESP32 microcontroller to transmit cartridge IDs to a mini PC, launching games seamlessly. An external USB cable is required for the ESP32 connection to the mini PC, which will be addressed in a future version. The case files are available for free on Printables.
Winsage
August 17, 2026
Microsoft is removing the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) from Windows 11 to enhance security by eliminating a tool that has been exploited by malware and ransomware. WMIC will not be included in Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2, with complete removal scheduled for the August 2026 Patch Tuesday update. The decision to remove WMIC is based on the availability of more secure alternatives like PowerShell. WMIC has been a vector for attacks, allowing threat actors to disable antivirus solutions and access sensitive data. Microsoft has phased out WMIC since 2021, encouraging users to transition to modern tools while continuing to support the underlying Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) infrastructure.
AppWizard
August 17, 2026
In 2021, interest in the first-person shooter "Quake" from the '90s surged, leading to discussions about similar games. "Doom II," released in 1994, featured larger levels, new enemies, and enhanced multiplayer options, becoming one of the best PC games of the '90s. "Heretic," also from 1994, allowed players to control Corvus, an elven warrior, and included multiplayer combat, with innovations like an inventory system and secondary fire options. "Duke Nukem 3D," released in 1996, introduced a humorous protagonist and featured cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, becoming a nostalgic classic. "Turok 2: Seeds of Evil," the 1998 sequel to "Turok: Dinosaur Hunter," included multiplayer modes and showcased advanced graphics and level design, remastered in 2017. "Unreal Tournament," launched in 1999, emphasized multiplayer combat in an arena shooter format, marking a significant moment for Epic Games and showcasing impressive visuals and performance.
BetaBeacon
August 17, 2026
The REDMAGIC 11 Pro is a purpose-built gaming phone with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, up to 24GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. It features a cooling system with liquid cooling, vapor chamber, and a turbo fan. The phone has a 6.85-inch display with a refresh rate of up to 144Hz, making it attractive to gamers who prioritize sustained performance.
Winsage
August 16, 2026
Microsoft is offering a lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro for .97, down from the regular price of 9. This promotion includes advanced features such as BitLocker, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox, which cater to advanced users. Windows 11 Pro also retains user-friendly elements like Snap Layouts and virtual desktops, and supports modern security measures including Windows Hello. The license is non-transferable and tied to a single compatible PC, which must meet hardware requirements such as TPM 2.0, UEFI firmware, a minimum of 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Microsoft provides a PC Health Check tool for compatibility verification.
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