influencer Archives

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Windows 8 had a 30-second ad with more creativity than all of Microsoft’s Copilot-heavy Windows 11 marketing

In 2025, users reported over 20 issues with Windows 11, leading to dissatisfaction reminiscent of past criticisms of Windows Vista and Windows 8. The original Windows 8 promotional campaign effectively highlighted its features through engaging marketing, contrasting with recent Copilot ads that faced backlash for showcasing the AI's limitations. Microsoft has shifted its focus towards AI integration, particularly with Copilot, despite negative feedback from users and developers regarding its effectiveness. Historically, Microsoft responded to Windows 8's challenges by releasing Windows 8.1, which addressed user concerns and improved functionality. A similar update, Windows 11.1, could help restore user confidence and improve the overall experience with Windows 11.

Winsage

January 11, 2026

Microsoft Tests Uninstall Option for Copilot AI on Windows Devices

Microsoft is testing a new policy that allows IT administrators to completely uninstall its Copilot AI assistant from managed Windows devices. This policy, named “RemoveMicrosoftCopilotApp,” is being deployed through management tools like Intune and System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) and addresses concerns about data privacy, resource consumption, and unwanted software in commercial settings. The feature is currently available in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (KB5072046) and reflects feedback from IT professionals who prefer controlled environments. While this option is exclusive to enterprise-tier Microsoft 365 subscribers, smaller businesses and individual users have limited options for removal. The policy aims to balance innovation with risk management, especially in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance, where data privacy is critical.

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Google warns all Android users to delete ‘fake apps’ as urgent advice issued

Android users are warned about fraudulent VPN applications that pose significant security threats by installing malware on devices and compromising personal and banking information. These malicious apps mimic reputable VPNs and use enticing advertisements to lure users. Once installed, they can introduce various forms of malware, including trojans and remote access tools, leading to severe consequences such as unauthorized access to personal accounts and financial loss. Cybercriminals employ sophisticated tactics, including professional advertising and AI-generated content, to create an illusion of legitimacy. Google advises users to download VPN services only from trusted sources, look for the verified VPN badge on the Google Play Store, and be cautious of free VPN services that may collect excessive data or contain malware.

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Minecraft challenge breathes new life into rich cultural past

A young gamer named Qiu Zekai, known as Qiuxiaoniuer, has recreated part of the destroyed Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace) in Minecraft, digitally repatriating the looted 12 zodiac bronze animal heads. His video has received millions of views, prompting discussions about "cyber reunion" and national pride. The zodiac bronzes were originally part of a fountain at the Qing Dynasty royal resort, which was looted during the Second Opium War in 1860. Only seven of the bronzes have been returned. Qiu spent two months on this project, which is part of a larger Minecraft building relay challenge that has amassed over 300 million views and showcases Chinese cultural architecture. Other participants have created significant structures, including a miniature Forbidden City and a floating palace inspired by Dunhuang art. The relay has become a cultural dialogue, connecting younger generations with their heritage through gaming.

TrendTechie

December 13, 2025

Терапия спасла их брак? – Лидия Торрент о кризисе с Астрайном

Lidia Torrent and Jaime Astrain have been in a relationship for over six years and are parents to a daughter named Elsa. Recently, rumors of a rift in their relationship surfaced, particularly after Lidia did not publicly wish Jaime a happy birthday due to a disagreement they had on that day. Lidia clarified that this was a typical spat, not a sign of a deeper crisis, and emphasized that thoughts of a breakup never crossed their minds. To improve their communication, they sought the help of a family therapist, which Lidia initiated. They no longer attend therapy, believing they have resolved their main issues.

AppWizard

November 26, 2025

Android users warned to delete these fake apps after Google alarm

Android users are facing a threat from counterfeit VPN applications that disguise themselves as privacy-enhancing tools but contain malware capable of compromising personal information and security. These fake VPNs mimic reputable brands and use misleading advertisements to appear legitimate. Once installed, they can steal passwords, messages, and financial data, and may even lock devices with ransomware. Google advises users to download VPNs only from trusted sources, look for verification badges, review app permissions, be cautious of free offers, research developers, and avoid scare tactics in marketing. Legitimate VPNs should not request access to personal contacts or photos and should only require network-related permissions.

AppWizard

October 24, 2025

Hidden Levels Ep. 5: Press B to Touch Grass

Nature in video games has evolved from a simple backdrop to an important escape for individuals with limited access to the outdoors, exemplified by Minecraft influencer Cassie Anne, who uses the game to connect with nature due to her severe allergies. The advancement of video games has been driven by technological innovations such as procedural generation and the pursuit of photorealism, allowing for immersive environments. These technologies are also being used to create digital twins for urban planning and environmental visualization. However, the energy consumption of visually intensive games contributes approximately 50 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. Despite this, video games can enhance ecological awareness and educate players about sustainability, serving as a connection to nature for those unable to experience it physically.

AppWizard

October 22, 2025

“Our job is to be the studio’s advocate”: Eden Chen on why marketing is the biggest challenge in PC games

Pragma, a Los Angeles-based backend infrastructure platform, acquired FirstLook in February to enhance its discoverability and marketing tools for game studios. At Gamescom, FirstLook showcased seven studios at its inaugural consumer-facing booth, marking a shift from a strictly B2B focus. CEO Eden Chen emphasized the importance of visibility in the gaming industry, stating that Pragma aims to support studios by improving matchmaking with players through a newly launched player network. The booth featured games such as "Gods, Death & Reapers," "The Holdouts," "Cloudheim," "Last Flag," "Starlight Revolver," "The Signal," and "Dead as Disco." FirstLook plans to expand its presence at future events, aiming for a larger booth with more studios. Pragma collaborates with over 100 studios, including major companies like Bungie, Sony, and EA, to address challenges in a saturated gaming market.

Winsage

October 11, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows XP Crocs are now officially a thing

Microsoft has transitioned its Limited Edition Crocs from beta testing to general availability, priced at .95, and offered in various sizes. The Crocs were introduced in October during Microsoft’s 50th anniversary celebrations and gained popularity through a sweepstakes. They feature a design inspired by the Windows XP “Bliss” wallpaper and include custom Jibbitz charms. A Bliss-themed drawstring backpack is also included. The Crocs can be purchased on Microsoft’s official merchandise website, with sizes ranging from women’s 4/men’s 2 to women’s 19/men’s 17.

AppWizard

October 5, 2025

Valve yoinked a new Counter-Strike 2 map out of the game after just 2 days, either for potential Disney copyright infringement, a ‘gamer word’ hidden in its data, or both

On October 2nd, Valve introduced new community maps for Counter-Strike 2, including one named Transit. However, on October 4, Valve removed Transit from official matchmaking due to potential copyright concerns and an inappropriate entity name. The term "gamer word" refers to a commentary on PewDiePie's use of a racial slur during a 2017 Twitch stream, highlighting issues of language in gaming communities. Initially, four community maps were listed in the update, but Transit was removed shortly after. An easter egg in Transit featured a cat on a zipline, but it was overshadowed by the discovery of a racial slur in an entity name. Rikuda, a co-designer of Transit, took responsibility for the oversight. Speculation also arose regarding a building in the map resembling a structure from Phineas and Ferb, raising concerns about copyright infringement. The incident illustrates the challenges developers face in managing user-generated content.