improvements Archives

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

The GTA 3D trilogy fanpatch has its biggest update, with over 100 new fixes including restored dialogue for San Andreas

The PC versions of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, GTA 3, and Vice City have faced criticism for problematic ports due to code reuse and quality control issues. The modding community has created significant updates, including the SilentPatch, which addresses bugs and restores previously cut content. Notably, over 100 voice lines in GTA San Andreas have been restored, allowing players to access them while using a mouse and keyboard. These efforts reflect the dedication of the modding community to enhance the gaming experience and preserve the legacy of these classic games.

Winsage

August 9, 2026

Dell is blaming Microsoft’s Windows 11 updates for a bug that broke 245+ PC models, but it’s all good now

Recent updates to Windows 11 have caused issues for users of Dell PCs, resulting in shutdowns, performance degradation, and overheating. Dell has released a list of approximately 245 affected models, including Alienware systems. Microsoft deployed an out-of-band update (KB5121767) to address these issues, which stemmed from an incompatibility between the Intel Innovation Platform Framework Processor Participant driver and the Windows USB-C Connection Manager. Affected devices could experience significant performance setbacks, unexpected shutdowns, increased heat output, and battery drain. Users are advised to install specific builds to avoid these problems, as rolling back the update is not an option. Microsoft is also working on improving driver quality through a new Driver Quality Initiative.

Winsage

August 9, 2026

Windows 11 users were right about Modern Standby, and Microsoft is fixing it with hibernation

A new adaptive hibernate policy has been introduced in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28120.2630, released on July 31, which adjusts hibernation behavior based on battery level to improve power management. If the battery is above 80%, the system avoids hibernation for quicker resumes, while it hibernates sooner when the battery drops below 10% to conserve power. This policy aims to enhance battery longevity and reduce overnight battery drain associated with the Modern Standby feature. Microsoft has also implemented a Driver Quality Initiative to evaluate third-party drivers for their impact on power management, addressing issues that can lead to excessive battery drain.

Winsage

August 8, 2026

Windows 11 26H2 is a small update with big quality-of-life improvements, expected around October 2026

Windows 11 will undergo a significant transformation with the upcoming annual update, version 26H2, which introduces enhancements to the interface, search functionality, backup processes, and AI integration. The update will allow users to reposition the taskbar to any edge of the screen and adopt a smaller layout with reduced icon sizes. The Start menu will have new configuration options and a privacy feature for hiding account details during screen sharing. Search functionality will prioritize local content over web results, with an option to disable web results entirely. Cloud-assisted setup and recovery will become a default setting for eligible Microsoft Entra devices, automatically saving configuration settings and app lists. Copilot will be more integrated into daily operations, including a dockable side panel in File Explorer. Updates will also be made to traditional system tools, including a modernized Run dialog and enhanced security for administrator-level operations. The support timeline for Windows 11 installations will reset, with Home and Pro editions receiving 24 months of support and Enterprise and Education editions receiving 36 months. The hardware requirements remain unchanged, and the rollout of 26H2 is anticipated in the latter half of 2026, likely around October.

Winsage

August 8, 2026

Will Windows 11’s new setup let you bypass the Microsoft account? Not on the list, at least for now

Microsoft has announced enhancements to the out-of-box experience (OOBE) for Windows 11, aiming to streamline the setup process before the end of 2026. The current setup requires a Microsoft account and an internet connection, eliminating the option for a local account, which was available in previous Windows versions. Users face delays due to mandatory updates, which can take 20 to 50 minutes, and are subjected to numerous promotional pages during the setup. Microsoft has introduced a “Skip for now” option for updates but has not addressed the forced Microsoft account sign-in requirement. There is no mention of removing this requirement in recent updates, despite ongoing demand from users. Microsoft has relaxed some account requirements in other areas, such as allowing sign-ins with Google or Apple accounts for Bing, but the OOBE still mandates a Microsoft account.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

5 Best PC Games Of The ’90s, Ranked

"Doom II" has received a new official level nearly three decades after its initial release. "Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings," released in 1999, features 13 distinct civilizations and has seen numerous expansions that enhance multiplayer modes. "Grim Fandango," released in 1998, is celebrated for its distinctive art design and captivating narrative, despite initial commercial struggles. "Half-Life," released in 1998, introduced a seamless gameplay experience and a compelling narrative, establishing itself as a classic in the first-person shooter genre. "StarCraft," released in 1998, allows players to choose from three unique factions and is known for its balanced gameplay and robust online multiplayer experience.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

Nintendo Switch 2 Minecraft Release Set For October 27

Minecraft will be available on the Nintendo Switch 2 starting October 27. The game will feature enhanced graphics, including improved lighting and richer shadows, as well as compatibility with content purchased from the Minecraft Marketplace. The Super Mario Mash-Up Pack will also receive upgrades for the new hardware. Current Nintendo Switch digital owners will have the opportunity to migrate to the Nintendo Switch 2 version, but details regarding the transition process and any potential fees are not yet disclosed.

AppWizard

August 7, 2026

Check out the latest Pixel Watch apps to get a new look for their icons

Google is updating the visual design of its Wear OS applications, particularly for the Pixel Watch series, ahead of the Pixel Watch 5 launch. The Clock and Stopwatch apps are receiving a redesign with a more natural color palette and refined aesthetics. The Clock app now features a classic 10:10 hand positioning and a toned-down appearance, while the Stopwatch app has a revamped color scheme. These changes are part of Google's broader effort to modernize its smartwatch offerings.

AppWizard

August 7, 2026

Marvel Tōkon Fighting Souls launches with PC performance issues and mixed Steam ratings

Players of Marvel: Tōkon Fighting Souls are experiencing performance issues on PC, leading to a Mixed rating on Steam with only 43% positive feedback. The game suffers from persistent micro-stutters during gameplay, launch failures, and significant challenges for Linux users, who are unable to access the game. A Reddit user highlighted that the game has regular micro-stutters regardless of hardware or settings, with frame-time graphs showing frequent spikes correlating to visible stutters. These issues disrupt online matches due to dropped frames. Even high-end hardware does not alleviate the stuttering, and external frame-rate limiters do not resolve the visible stutters. Steam reviews reflect concerns about performance, with some users reporting issues before launching the game. Linux users are particularly frustrated as the game blocks any attempts to launch on Linux systems, unlike another title from the same developer. The game is also not compatible with the Steam Deck due to similar Linux-related issues. Arc System Works has released a day-one patch aimed at improving performance, including reducing CPU load and addressing performance drops associated with overlays, but players are still awaiting feedback on its effectiveness.

Winsage

August 7, 2026

This is getting embarrassing now — Microsoft sabotages its good work in fixing Windows 11 with this baffling OneDrive Photos app misfire

Microsoft is automatically installing the OneDrive Photos app on Windows 11 devices, including business systems where it is not intended for use. This has led to user backlash, as many individuals do not utilize OneDrive or have a Microsoft account. Users have expressed frustration on platforms like Reddit, with some considering switching to alternative operating systems. The incident reveals a disconnect within Microsoft regarding user experience improvements, raising concerns about the company's commitment to fostering a positive relationship with its users.