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Windows 11 version 26H2 is rolling out now — here’s how to get the update now and get the most out of the 2026 update
Winsage
October 11, 2026

Windows 11 version 26H2 is rolling out now — here’s how to get the update now and get the most out of the 2026 update

Microsoft is gradually introducing the Windows 11 2026 Update (version 26H2) to compatible devices. The update is optional and requires manual installation for users who want it before the general rollout. Users on versions 25H2 or 24H2 can update without a complete reinstallation, while those on version 23H2 or earlier must perform a full in-place upgrade. To install the update from Settings, users should open Settings, click on Windows Update, enable the toggle for getting the latest updates, check for updates, download and install, and restart the device. If the upgrade option is not visible, it may indicate incompatibility. The Media Creation Tool can be used for creating bootable USB media for users upgrading from older versions like 23H2 or Windows 10, but it requires a complete reinstallation. Steps include downloading the tool, selecting the USB drive option, and following prompts to create the installation media. Users can also download the Windows 11 version 26H2 ISO file from the Microsoft support website, mount the ISO, and run setup.exe to complete the installation.
How to easily sideload Android apps on your new Googlebook
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

How to easily sideload Android apps on your new Googlebook

Chrome Unboxed offers support for independent tech journalism and provides an ad-free experience with membership benefits. Android gamers face challenges with popular titles like Call of Duty: Mobile, which are unavailable for installation on Googlebook via the Play Store. Users can sideload apps on Googlebook OS, built on Android 17, without the limitations of the Play Store. The sideloading process involves downloading an APK from a trusted source, allowing unknown apps in Chrome, and installing the app. Google Play Protect monitors installed applications for malicious activity, but users should still exercise caution when sideloading.
We tested gaming performance in 17-year-old Windows 7 against Windows 11 on a modern gaming PC — older operating system delivers advantages in some scenarios
Winsage
October 10, 2026

We tested gaming performance in 17-year-old Windows 7 against Windows 11 on a modern gaming PC — older operating system delivers advantages in some scenarios

Windows 7 was released in 2009 and has received positive reviews for nearly two decades. A performance evaluation was conducted by installing Windows 7 on a modern PC and testing it against Windows 11 across ten games, including eight DirectX 11 titles and two DirectX 9 titles. In the game Metro 2033 Redux, Windows 11 achieved a higher average frame rate, but Windows 7 had better handling of CPU-related performance drops, resulting in stronger 1% lows. In Batman: Arkham Origins, Windows 7 outperformed Windows 11 in both average frame rate and 1% lows at 1080p and 4K. For Batman: Arkham Knight, Windows 7 showed higher performance when CPU-limited at 1080p, while Windows 11 led in GPU-limited scenarios at 1440p and 4K. In Batman: Arkham City, Windows 11 had the advantage across all resolutions as the game was GPU-bound. In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Windows 7 outperformed Windows 11 in 1% lows at 1080p, but Windows 11 took the lead at higher resolutions. Control showed Windows 11 outperforming Windows 7 across all resolutions due to GPU optimizations. Hitman: Absolution also favored Windows 11 in GPU-limited scenarios. For DirectX 9 games, Windows 7 demonstrated significant advantages in average frame rate and 1% lows in Batman: Arkham Asylum, especially at lower resolutions, while performance in Borderlands 2 was nearly identical across both operating systems at 4K. Overall, Windows 7 excels in CPU-limited scenarios, while Windows 11 performs better in GPU-bound situations, aided by advanced graphics drivers. Microsoft’s ongoing efforts aim to improve Windows 11's performance and reliability.
Why Antivirus Flags Game Tools and How to Verify Downloads Safely
Tech Optimizer
October 10, 2026

Why Antivirus Flags Game Tools and How to Verify Downloads Safely

In gaming, tools such as utilities, beta applications, and modding tools are often distributed as APK, IPA, or desktop files, and it is essential to investigate their origin, version, and any security warnings before installation. Antivirus software flags potential threats based on known malicious signatures, behavior patterns, and reputation data. Tools that modify game clients may receive heightened scrutiny, and classifications like “HackTool” or “Riskware” do not definitively indicate a file's functionality. Identical game utilities can exist on various platforms, and a familiar website does not guarantee authenticity. It is crucial to verify the publisher, update date, version, and installation method of a file. The SHA-256 hash verifies file integrity but does not ensure safety from malware. Calculating a file hash can be done using specific commands in Windows, macOS, or Linux. Multi-engine scanning platforms like VirusTotal provide insights, but a lack of detections does not guarantee safety. Even if a file matches its reference hash and raises no alerts, it may still violate online game terms. A pre-installation checklist includes confirming the publisher, checking file types, comparing SHA-256 hashes, reviewing security findings, keeping antivirus protection enabled, and consulting platform rules. A cautious approach integrates source verification, file integrity checks, security assessments, and compliance with platform regulations.
DroidDeck Brings SteamOS to Android in an App
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

DroidDeck Brings SteamOS to Android in an App

Valve's SteamOS is now accessible on Android handhelds through an app called DroidDeck, which allows users to engage with games in a familiar interface. The installation process involves disabling the “Child-process limit” in Developer Options and using Wireless ADB Debugging if necessary. Users can then access the Steam section of the app to download essential components like the FEX and Proton drivers. DroidDeck also features a “Desktop” tab for a Linux desktop environment and enables the installation of emulators within the SteamOS. The app is currently available for download on GitHub, and developers are actively working on enhancements and bug fixes.
A Medical Emergency Forced A User To Downgrade From Windows 11 26H2 To Windows 10, But The Matter Is Being Blown Way Out Of Proportion
Winsage
October 9, 2026

A Medical Emergency Forced A User To Downgrade From Windows 11 26H2 To Windows 10, But The Matter Is Being Blown Way Out Of Proportion

A user known as “u/Shanaudio” reverted to Windows 10 after experiencing frustration with the Windows 11 26H2 update. Following the update, he faced a family medical emergency and needed to research medical information online. The installation of the built-in Windows language input method took 20 minutes, compared to just 2 minutes on Windows 10. This delay prompted him to downgrade to the older operating system.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
October 9, 2026

Thousands of cheap Android phones shipped with ad-fraud malware

Researchers from Bitdefender have discovered that thousands of inexpensive Android devices are preloaded with malware called "Midnight Mimosa," which generates fraudulent advertising revenue. This malware is embedded in the device firmware before the first power-up, making it impossible for users to uninstall. It operates with system-level privileges, allowing it to install or remove applications without user consent and to download additional code. The malware primarily aims for financial gain through advertising and click fraud, while also gathering information about devices. Bitdefender has detected this malware on thousands of devices across over 150 countries, with the highest concentrations in Mexico, France, and Italy, followed by the United States, Germany, Brazil, and Spain. Many affected devices are low-cost, white-label, or counterfeit models, often sold online. The malware stealthily installs legitimate-looking applications that display ads in invisible windows, generating ad impressions without user awareness. Bitdefender identified at least 32 disguised applications and found 13 apps in the Google Play Store with similar ad-fraud code. The source of the malware remains unidentified, but some affected firmware was signed with certificates from Shenzhen Zediel, a Chinese company. The researchers suggest that the malware could have been introduced at various stages of the supply chain, potentially by manufacturers or intermediaries.
Microsoft confirms a Windows update can close games that use AC-3 audio
Winsage
October 8, 2026

Microsoft confirms a Windows update can close games that use AC-3 audio

Microsoft has acknowledged an issue related to a Windows update (KB5124010) released on September 22, 2026, which has caused unexpected closures of various games that rely on AC-3 audio decoding. This issue affects Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2, while server editions remain unaffected. The problem primarily impacts legacy applications that depend on Windows' built-in audio decoding, particularly older PC games using the Dolby Digital codec for pre-rendered cutscenes and licensed soundtracks. Microsoft has confirmed the issue but has not provided a list of affected titles, workarounds, or a resolution timeline. The status remains unchanged as of October 7, and the issue persists regardless of user action.
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