internet connection Archives

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Xodus Cracks Xbox Authentication and Game Package Decryption to Bring PC Game Pass to Linux

Developers of the Heroic Games Launcher have announced Xodus, an open-source project aimed at enabling access to PC Game Pass on Linux and macOS. Launched on August 10, 2026, Xodus has successfully addressed Xbox identity authentication and the decryption of MSIXVC packages, allowing local play of Game Pass titles for Linux and macOS users. Currently, the only way to access Game Pass on non-Windows devices is through Xbox Cloud Gaming, which requires a Game Pass Ultimate subscription and introduces latency. Xodus employs a layered architecture, including an Xbox Authentication Library (xal-rs) for managing Microsoft account sign-ins and license verification, and a reimplementation of the xgameruntime.dll for license checks and Xbox service access. The project can retrieve MSIXVC game packages using a valid Game Pass subscription and decrypt executables for local storage. However, it does not yet support UWP-based titles and lacks a user-friendly interface for general users. The project is under pressure due to Microsoft's upcoming transition to the MSIXVC2 package format, which Xodus does not currently support. Xodus is in early development with only a command-line interface available, and the team is working on emulating the GDK Gaming Services layer necessary for game initialization. The project is legal as it reimplements Xbox runtime behavior without enabling piracy, but it faces risks if Microsoft alters its authentication infrastructure.

AppWizard

August 10, 2026

Project Xodus Brings Native Xbox PC and Game Pass Games to Linux

Project Xodus is an open-source initiative focused on reverse-engineering Xbox PC and Game Pass titles to enable their use on Linux and Mac systems. The project has made significant progress in Microsoft authentication and package decryption, allowing Linux users to download and process Xbox subscription games locally. The team has successfully reverse-engineered Microsoft’s identity services and license verification systems, unlocking encrypted MSIXVC game files and enabling the verification of game licenses and decryption of installation packages on non-Windows operating systems. Xodus serves as a translation bridge for Microsoft’s proprietary ecosystem services, providing custom proxy libraries for games to function as if they are running in a native Windows environment. It specifically targets modern games built on Microsoft’s GDK framework, excluding older titles using the Universal Windows Platform and those dependent on kernel-level anti-cheat mechanisms. The project aims to improve access to Xbox Game Pass on devices like the Steam Deck by facilitating direct local hardware execution, reducing reliance on cloud streaming and enhancing portable gaming experiences. Community feedback has been positive, with developers actively sharing updates and engaging with inquiries.

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 5, 2026

Why Running Your Own Minecraft Server Is Still Worth It in 2026

In 2026, players have three primary options for hosting Minecraft servers: self-hosting on personal computers, free hosting services, and paid hosting plans. Self-hosting offers complete control but requires maintenance and can lead to performance issues as player numbers grow. Free hosting is suitable for casual play but has limitations like restricted RAM and player slots. Paid hosting provides dedicated resources, DDoS protection, automatic backups, and technical support, making it a reliable choice for larger communities. Owning a server allows for customization of game settings, mods, and player access, enhancing the gaming experience. However, self-hosting can expose users to security risks and requires network configuration. Upgrading to paid hosting is advisable for those needing more resources, reliability, and support.

AppWizard

August 4, 2026

Google Merges AI Mode, Search Live, and Song Search Into Android Voice Button

The four-color microphone button on Android homescreens has been updated to provide four distinct functionalities: Search, Translate, Live, and Create. This redesign includes a mode switcher similar to Google Lens, allowing users to select their preferred mode instead of relying on the app to infer intent. Each mode is powered by different AI architectures: AI Mode uses Gemini 3.5 Flash for complex queries, Search Live employs Gemini 3.1 Flash Live for real-time conversations, and Song Search identifies melodies using machine learning. The toolbar now remembers the last selected mode, enhancing user convenience. The new features are currently available in beta versions of the Google app (17.1 and 17.2) on Android, with no specified timeline for broader rollout.

Winsage

August 3, 2026

Own Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows for Just $33

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is available for .97 until August 9, down from its regular price of 9.99. The suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Access, Publisher, and a free version of Microsoft Teams. It offers lifetime access on a single Windows PC and features significant performance enhancements and updated collaboration tools. The software is installed locally, allowing use without an internet connection for many tasks. It does not include continuous feature updates like Microsoft 365, providing a stable, perpetual version of the software.

AppWizard

August 1, 2026

App used in Gen Z protest installed without internet: Bitchat sends messages via Bluetooth; govt asks the c…

Jack Dorsey has introduced a new feature for his offline messaging app, BitChat, allowing Android users to share and install the app directly from one device to another via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, without needing an internet connection or access to the Google Play Store or GitHub. This feature is designed to enable users to install BitChat by sharing the APK file, making the app accessible even if it faces restrictions on online platforms. The update follows concerns from the Indian government about the app being exploited by criminal organizations. The BitChat team has stated that the app can now be distributed among users, transforming every device with BitChat installed into a potential distribution hub.

Winsage

July 26, 2026

Microsoft Edge exclusively had this Windows 11 feature for 10 years that Chrome finally got

Mozilla has raised concerns about a change in Windows 11 26H2 that may impact users' default browser choices. Firefox has recently introduced HDR support, but this came nearly a decade after Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome. Microsoft Edge has maintained an advantage over Google Chrome in media features, having announced 4K support for Netflix in 2016, while Google Chrome only recently gained 4K support for Netflix, as confirmed by a user on X. To watch Netflix in 4K on Chrome, users must use version 117 or newer and meet specific requirements, including a Netflix plan that supports Ultra HD, a steady internet connection of 15 Mbps or higher, and a compatible 4K display. Mozilla Firefox currently does not support 4K Netflix, remaining limited to 1080p. Additionally, Google Chrome lacks support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Digital Plus codecs, which have been available on Edge since 2015.

Tech Optimizer

July 24, 2026

Microsoft has ensured that LG monitors no longer prompt users to install McAfee on Windows

Owners of LG monitors have expressed frustration over an automatic prompt that appears when connecting their devices to Windows 11 PCs, encouraging the download of the LG Monitor App Installer, which suggests installing McAfee antivirus software. Microsoft has intervened, with executive vice president Pavan Davuluri confirming on July 22 that they reached out to LG to address the issue. LG has agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up from their app. Users have also raised concerns about the extensive permissions granted to the app, which reportedly accesses "all system resources" and the Internet connection. Similar practices have been observed with other manufacturers, including Alienware and Samsung.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

Mac users can get Microsoft Office and Windows 11 Pro for life for $165

Microsoft has introduced a bundle that includes Microsoft Office 2024 and Windows 11 Pro for a price of .97, reduced from .99. Office 2024 is compatible with Mac systems and includes applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, functioning offline with automatic syncing. It features advanced AI tools such as Smart Compose for Word and Dynamic Arrays for Excel. Windows 11 Pro offers security features like BitLocker for drive encryption and Hyper-V for creating virtual machines. This bundle serves as an alternative for users transitioning from Microsoft 365 subscriptions.