hub Archives

AppWizard

September 1, 2026

How to make sure your Android phone is secure

Android devices have various features to enhance security and privacy. A 2025 Pew Research Center study found that nearly 75% of Americans have faced online scams, which have become more sophisticated, including vishing scams using AI-generated deepfakes. Android offers tools to mitigate these risks, such as AI-driven scam detection and theft protection. To safeguard devices, users should keep their software updated by checking Settings > About Phone for the current version and navigating to Settings > System > Software Updates for updates. App updates can be managed through the Google Play Store under Settings > Network preferences > Auto-update apps. Securing Google accounts with two-factor authentication is recommended, which can be set up via the Google Account management page. Automatic backups can be enabled in Settings > Google > Backup. The Find Hub app helps track lost devices and can be configured in Settings > Location and Settings > Security. Android includes scam detection tools that alert users to potential scams in calls and texts, which can be activated in the Phone app settings. Privacy settings can be managed by adjusting app permissions in Settings > Apps and using the Permission manager in Security & Privacy. Users can opt out of data sharing with advertisers by navigating to Settings > Google > Ads. Google Play Protect scans for harmful apps and should remain enabled for safety. Theft protection features, such as Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock, can be activated in Settings > Google > Personal & device safety.

Winsage

August 31, 2026

Microsoft’s latest Windows update breaks cursors, wallpaper, and more – what to do if you’re affected

Windows 11 users who installed the September preview update (KB5120998) are experiencing a bug that alters or erases personalized mouse cursor settings, resulting in cursors that may be too large, too small, or invisible. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue, describing it as causing "appearance regressions and intermittent animation changes." High-DPI cursors have been replaced with larger, white cursors, and attempts to revert to previous settings have failed. Additionally, users have reported issues with wallpapers reverting to a black screen and blurry fonts, although Microsoft has not formally acknowledged the font issue. Users can uninstall the update by navigating to Settings, selecting Windows Update, clicking on Update History, and finding the option to uninstall the update labeled 2026-08 Preview Update (KB5120998). Microsoft is investigating the cursor problem and plans to provide updates by September 8.

AppWizard

August 31, 2026

Game review: Star Wars Zero Company (PC)

Star Wars Zero Company is a turn-based strategy game set during the waning days of the Clone Wars, where players lead a mercenary unit called Zero Company, led by former Republic officer Tesh Hawks. The game features tactical gameplay reminiscent of the X-COM series, with players managing a squad and engaging in combat missions while also exploring an upgradeable hub called The Den. Players can choose between Operations and Tactical Missions, with character customization options available for generic recruits. The game includes a variety of missions and enemies from the Star Wars universe, including a notable antagonist, The Coil. It features a permadeath system, strategic gameplay that emphasizes positioning and cover, and a soundtrack inspired by the franchise. The game is developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm, EA Games, and Bit Reactor.

Winsage

August 30, 2026

Microsoft Confirms Windows 11’s KB5120998 Update is Breaking Mouse Cursors

Microsoft's optional update for Windows 11, KB5120998, is causing issues with mouse cursor settings, reverting them to default configurations after installation. Users are experiencing frustrations as personalized cursors are replaced by an oversized default version, and adjustments to color and size often do not persist. This problem appears to be linked to specific hardware configurations or display scaling setups. Microsoft is investigating the issue, and users can uninstall the update to resolve the problem without affecting access to essential security patches.

Winsage

August 29, 2026

Install Windows 11 on Steam Deck OLED: 12 Steps [2026]

The Steam Deck OLED has limitations in running certain Windows applications and games, particularly those with kernel-level anti-cheat systems. Valve has provided an official Windows driver bundle for the OLED model since 2024, and by 2026, a community-developed process for dual-booting Windows 11 alongside SteamOS has emerged. Running Windows 11 may be necessary for games that do not perform well on SteamOS, especially competitive titles. The Steam Deck OLED requires specific prerequisites for dual-booting, including a fully charged device, updated SteamOS, sufficient free storage, a Windows 11 license, and a USB flash drive for installation. Users must follow a detailed installation process that includes updating SteamOS, creating a recovery drive, downloading Windows 11, and configuring the system for dual-booting. Common pitfalls include skipping the recovery drive and under-allocating storage for Windows. Battery life on Windows is shorter than on SteamOS, and users should be aware of this when deciding to dual-boot. The dual-boot setup does not void the warranty, and it is possible to revert to a SteamOS-only setup later.

AppWizard

August 29, 2026

Nodusfall isn’t Elden Ring, Monster Hunter or a typical HoYoverse game—it’s something very different

Nodusfall is a new co-op action game from HoYoverse, distinct from their previous titles that featured gacha mechanics and collectible characters. The game does not currently confirm any gacha elements, focusing instead on cosmetic monetization. It was revealed at Gamescom, drawing initial comparisons to Elden Ring and Monster Hunter, but it offers a unique gameplay experience. Set in a world where divine authority has collapsed, players engage in contracts to hunt beasts and customize characters with different combat styles. The gameplay emphasizes fast-paced action, teamwork, and strategy, with players facing challenging boss encounters. HoYoverse plans to provide updates on beta access and further developments through their official channels.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

Mid-week Android app deals and freebies: Turnip Boy Robs a Bank, LIMBO, Undead Slayer, more

9to5Toys is a platform that curates deals and insights for tech enthusiasts and consumers. It features a homepage with current tech news, encourages community engagement through social media, and offers resources such as a list of best Apple deals, a daily podcast, and a YouTube channel for additional content.

Winsage

August 26, 2026

Microsoft Now Says Your RGB Lighting Is Why Windows Keeps Crashing Your Games, and There Is a Registry Fix

Microsoft has identified RGB peripherals and components as the source of game crashes following the August 11 Patch Tuesday rollup for Windows 11. The issue stems from drivers or code components resembling inpoutx64, which are triggered when certain games are launched. Embark Studios linked the problem to update KB5121003, and Microsoft confirmed the connection to inpoutx64.sys, although the root cause involves changes to the Windows kernel driver. A temporary workaround involves editing the registry to disable the inpoutx64 driver, though this may affect RGB functionality. Affected games include ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tokon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, with symptoms like game freezing and unexpected closures. Rolling back the update is not recommended due to security vulnerabilities it addressed. The inpoutx64.sys driver has been included with various RGB and monitoring software, and Microsoft is investigating the issue further, asking users for feedback. No timeline for a permanent fix has been provided.

Winsage

August 25, 2026

Windows 11 KB5121003: Game crashes caused by inpoutx64

Microsoft has acknowledged issues with the August security update KB5121003 for Windows 11, affecting versions 24H2 and 25H2. Users reported problems such as game freezing, unexpected closures, and system restarts after installing the update. The issues are linked to drivers and software for specific RGB-enabled peripherals or components, particularly involving the inpoutx64.sys driver. Games mentioned include ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and THE FINALS. Embark Studios has released a support guide suggesting users stop and remove the inpoutx64.sys service as a temporary workaround. Microsoft is investigating the issue but has not provided a definitive fix or patch timeline.

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Microsoft shares temporary fix for Windows 11 gaming issues

Microsoft has acknowledged gaming issues related to Windows 11 updates released on August 11, 2026, affecting games like ARC Raiders, MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals. Problems reported include game crashes, failures to launch, freezes, and unexpected system restarts, particularly on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. Microsoft identified a link between these issues and drivers or components associated with RGB lighting devices, specifically the inpoutx64.sys driver. A temporary workaround involves disabling the inpoutx64 driver through the Windows Registry, with caution advised regarding potential unintended consequences. Users are encouraged to report issues via the Feedback Hub app as Microsoft investigates further.