HDR Archives

Winsage

October 16, 2026

Looks like Windows Settings could become a Microsoft Store app

Microsoft is testing a new application called 'Project Odeon' in the Microsoft Store, which aims to unify Windows settings by consolidating functionalities from the Control Panel into a single platform. The app requires Windows 11 build 26100 or newer and features an interface similar to the current Windows Settings. It currently has some inconsistencies, such as incomplete pages and greyed-out options, but offers more extensive settings in certain areas, like detailed display settings. The app's architecture allows for modular add-ons that require additional permissions for various tasks. Microsoft may be using the Store for testing, and if successful, this could lead to quicker updates and enhancements, moving away from traditional Windows Update cycles. The development indicates a clear trajectory away from the Control Panel, which Microsoft has been signaling it intends to phase out.

Winsage

October 16, 2026

Windows 11 could kill Control Panel faster, as Microsoft quietly tests Settings in the Microsoft Store

Microsoft is testing an application called "Project Odeon," which resembles the Windows 11 Settings interface and is categorized under Productivity in the Microsoft Store. The app is currently in a Preview version, identified as Microsoft.ProjectOdeon, version 1.0.9.0, and requires Windows 11 build 26100 or later with Developer Mode enabled for installation. Odeon does not replace the existing Settings app, allowing both to coexist, and it can identify system information similar to the built-in Settings app, although there are discrepancies in reported data. Some pages in Odeon appear unfinished, and it features a hidden preview mode with a dummy account for testing purposes. The architecture of Odeon suggests it may not fully replace the Settings app but could function as a modular Store app with helper executables for system-level changes. Microsoft is exploring the possibility of delivering updates to the Settings app through the Store, potentially phasing out the traditional Control Panel. There is currently no public release planned for Project Odeon.

AppWizard

October 15, 2026

The Sinking City 2 Update 1.1.0 Adds PS5 Pro Support And Over 150 Fixes

Frogwares has released Update 1.1.0 for The Sinking City 2, which includes combat adjustments, new features, and over 150 fixes for PC and console players. The update reduces enemy numbers and fine-tunes combat mechanics for a better experience. It adds HDR and HDR10+ support, enhancements for PlayStation 5 Pro users through PSSR, and new upscaling options for PC. The Ex Oblivione mode has been reworked to allow more upgrade carryovers, and two new free outfits have been introduced for player customization.

Winsage

October 9, 2026

Microsoft’s AI-Powered Windows Strategy: 5 Things To Know

Microsoft has transitioned its Execution Containers capability into general availability, creating a secure environment for AI agents on Windows 11. Nvidia's CEO praised Microsoft's MXC architecture as a revolutionary foundation for application development. Organizations are increasingly relying on managed service providers to navigate AI tools. The general availability of Microsoft Execution Containers allows organizations to define access for AI agents, with real-time policy enforcement. The open-source MXC library integrates across Windows, macOS, and Linux, helping manage agent interactions and mitigate risks. Microsoft is enhancing the Copilot experience with hybrid intelligence features and revamping Windows Search for better performance. Preorders for new Copilot+ PCs powered by Nvidia's RTX Spark technology are open, with shipments starting on October 16. Device partners like Dell, HP, and Lenovo are also launching AI PCs on the same date. Later this year, Dell and HP will introduce Nvidia’s DGX Station technology to enable local running of frontier-class AI models on Windows devices.

Winsage

October 3, 2026

Microsoft confirms big Windows 11 announcement, as it keeps ripping out Windows 95-era UI and chasing speed

Microsoft's event on October 7 will showcase advancements in Windows, Surface devices, and NVIDIA RTX Spark technology. The event is set for 10:00 AM PT, with a focus on innovations for builders and creators. Key highlights include the Surface Laptop Ultra, which features RTX Spark technology, and enhancements to Windows 11 aimed at supporting AI-driven hardware. Microsoft will introduce Project Zenith, a specialized version of Windows 11 for high-performance PCs. The event will also cover Microsoft Execution Containers for secure AI agent operation, improvements to Windows task scheduling, and enhancements to the Prism emulator for running x86 applications on Arm architecture. The Surface Laptop Ultra, featuring up to 128GB of unified memory and a 15-inch mini-LED display, is expected to be priced at the higher end of the market, with various configurations available.

Winsage

September 19, 2026

Microsoft Surface Pro 13″ (12th Edition) Review: Is ARM Windows Finally Good?

The 13-inch Microsoft Surface Pro 12th Edition is the first model to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2. The review unit has an X2 Plus processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 512 GB SSD. It runs Windows 11 Home in its ARM variant, allowing for the installation of applications like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro, which now run natively. However, some limitations exist, such as missing features in Premiere Pro and longer export times. The device is available in two configurations, with the higher-end variant featuring the X2 Elite processor. Benchmark results show improved performance over its predecessor, particularly in Geekbench 6. The easily swappable SSD is a notable feature, and the device can become warm during intensive tasks. The gaming performance is mixed, with some titles running well while others struggle. The display is a 13-inch PixelSense LCD with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,920 pixels and a brightness level of 600 nits. The audio features stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos. The build quality is premium, with a weight of 895 grams and a thickness of 9.3 millimeters. Connectivity includes two USB-C ports with USB4 and DisplayPort capabilities, but lacks USB-A and a headphone jack. The device has an IR scanner for face recognition and a front camera that captures 1440p video. It offers three keyboard options and includes the Slim Pen 2 in some bundles. Battery life is approximately 7.15 hours while looping an HD YouTube video at maximum brightness, with efficient charging options available.

AppWizard

September 18, 2026

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5: key changes

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 was released on September 15, 2026, with a public rollout for Pixel devices starting the next day. This beta version enhances the Proactive Assistance feature on Pixel 10 and Pixel 11 devices, allowing users more control over personalized suggestions and addressing various bugs. It is a development build for supported Pixel devices and Android Emulator images, with identified builds CP41.260828.004.A8 and CP41.260828.005.A6, and a security patch level dated August 5, 2026. The update package size for the Pixel 10 Pro XL is approximately 667 MB. The notable change in Beta 5 is the introduction of two Proactive Assistance entries in the Settings menu, allowing users to manage proactive suggestions more effectively. The updated settings page includes a "Use app content for suggestions" option, enabling users to control which applications can share screen content and notifications. Google's release notes list several fixes, including issues with Bluetooth device icons, unexpected reboots, missing volume controls, search-field highlight rendering, unlocking Private Space, HDR behavior, Google Wallet touchscreen unresponsiveness, camera crashes, and distorted Bluetooth call audio. The stable release of Android 17 QPR2 is expected in December 2026, and users are advised that Beta 5 is a developmental tool that may contain errors. Additionally, new restrictions on programmatic USSD requests for call forwarding have been introduced to reduce potential fraud.

AppWizard

September 17, 2026

Google Pixel: Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 Released

On September 15, 2026, Google released the beta OS update "Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5" for Google Pixel devices in the Android Beta Program. This update includes support for new Pixel devices: "Pixel 11," "Pixel 11 Pro," "Pixel 11 Pro XL," and "Pixel 11 Pro Fold," while excluding "Pixel 6" and "Pixel 6 Pro." The update is distributed via Over-the-Air (OTA) to 23 models, including "Pixel 6a," "Pixel 7," and "Pixel 8 Pro." Key features include "Call Forwarding Hardening," which restricts access to call-forwarding USSD codes to enhance security against scams. The update also includes eight bug fixes, addressing issues with Bluetooth device type display, unexpected reboots, volume slider UI, text rendering, Private Space unlocking, HDR mode, Camera app crashes, and Bluetooth audio distortion. The build number changes to "CP41.260828.004.A8" or "CP41.260828.005.A6," with the Android security patch level updated to "August 5, 2026," and "Google Play services" upgraded to version 26.28.33 or later.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

Google rolling out Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 for Pixel

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 has been released for Pixel devices, addressing several critical issues. Key fixes include: - Resolved visual inconsistencies with Bluetooth device icons (Issue #516071134). - Fixed a system stability issue causing unexpected reboots during UI scrolling in media-heavy apps (Issue #544291113). - Hardware volume buttons now allow the system volume slider UI to display while casting media (Issue #548145018). - Corrected text-rendering issues causing unexpected background highlights in search fields and a navigation routing problem in Private Space (Issue #548285596). - Fixed persistent activation of enhanced HDR mode despite being turned off in settings (Issue #547457910). - Google Wallet can now be launched via the power button shortcut without causing touchscreen unresponsiveness (Issue #549758084). - Resolved camera crashes during panorama processing (Issue #551069625). - Addressed Bluetooth audio distortion and noise after calls (Issue #541684282). The build CP41.260828.005.A6 is available for Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel Fold, while CP41.260828.004.A8 is for other devices. System images for Beta 5 are available for various Pixel devices and the Android Emulator. Users can join the Android Beta Program for OTA updates.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

Here’s everything new in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 [Gallery]

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 has begun its rollout, with a stable release expected in December. The update includes new features and enhancements, with a detailed guide available for installation on compatible devices such as Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Tablet. Changes in Quick Settings include the introduction of a new Audio Streams Tile and the removal of layout customization. The Voice broadcast Tile has been moved under Connectivity. Fixes in this update include: - Resolved an issue with Bluetooth device icon updates. - Addressed a system stability problem causing unexpected reboots during UI scrolling in media-heavy apps. - Fixed a bug preventing the system volume slider from appearing when using hardware volume buttons while casting media. - Corrected a text-rendering issue causing unexpected background highlights in search fields and a navigation routing problem with Private Space. - Enhanced HDR mode remained enabled despite user settings. - Resolved touchscreen unresponsiveness when launching Google Wallet via the power button shortcut. - Fixed camera crashes during panorama processing. - Addressed Bluetooth audio issues with noise and distortion after calls.