kingdom Archives

Winsage

July 16, 2026

Firefox vs Edge: fresh shots fired in browser wars as Mozilla report accuses Microsoft of using ‘harmful design’ to undermine choice in Windows 11

Mozilla's report raises concerns about Microsoft's practices regarding browser choice in Windows 11, alleging that Microsoft uses harmful design tactics to promote its Edge browser. Key strategies identified include trick wording, obstruction, visual interference, preselection, nagging, and forced action, affecting users at various stages of their experience. For example, users trying to download Chrome encounter pop-up banners encouraging them to use Edge, which is also pre-pinned to the Windows taskbar. Migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11 resets Edge as the default browser, ignoring user preferences. The report also highlights that Microsoft's AI, Copilot, opens links in Edge instead of the user's default browser, and minor consent requests may compromise user privacy by funneling data into Microsoft's advertising systems. Users in Germany face fewer issues due to stricter regulations. The report indicates that while Microsoft's promotion of Edge hasn't significantly impacted Chrome's dominance, it may have affected smaller competitors like Firefox. Mozilla calls for Microsoft to change its approach and urges regulators to take action to ensure fair competition in the browser market.

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: MEGA MAN X, Little Big Workshop, Ace Attorney Trilogy, more

A selection of Android games and apps are available at discounts, including MEGA MAN X for (reg. ), Little Big Workshop for .25 (reg. ), Ace Attorney Trilogy for (reg. ), GHOST TRICK for (reg. ), LEGO Bricktales for (reg. ), and Neighbours from Hell 1 Premium for (reg. ). The Google Pixel Flex Dual Port 67W USB-C Fast Charger is now priced at , reflecting a 25% discount. The Google Nest Doorbell is available for (reg. 0). The most affordable unlocked Pixel 10 is up to 8 off, while Pro models are reduced by up to 4. The Google Pixel Watch 4 is currently 2 off.

AppWizard

July 15, 2026

Moonlight Peaks review

Players can immerse themselves in a nocturnal farming simulation world inhabited by supernatural beings, cultivating crops and raising animals under moonlight. The game is priced at in the United States and £30 in the United Kingdom. It is developed by Little Chicken and published by Xseed Games and Marvelous Europe. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use an Intel Core Ultra 7 265 processor, an RTX 5070 Ti graphics card, and 32GB of RAM. The game is designed for solo play and is verified for compatibility with the Steam Deck. Additional information is available on the official site.

BetaBeacon

July 14, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: FINAL FANTASY VII, Skul, Beastie Bay DX, Dream Park Story, more

The Android app price drops include FINAL FANTASY VII for , Cafeteria Nipponica for .25, Skul: The Hero Slayer for , Cafe Master Story for , Beastie Bay DX for , and Backrooms for free.

Winsage

July 14, 2026

Microsoft blocks browser choice for 1.4 billion Windows users, study finds

Microsoft's design strategies continue to influence users towards its Edge browser, as revealed in a study by Dr. Harry Brignull and Cennydd Bowles, published by Mozilla. The researchers tested Windows 10 and 11 across the US, UK, India, and Germany, focusing on whether users could download, set, and maintain a default browser other than Edge without interference. Findings showed that users encountered harmful design patterns that hindered their ability to choose alternative browsers. For example, searching for "download Chrome" on Bing led to Edge promotions, and downloading Chrome triggered an Edge banner. In Windows 11, the setup prompts users to allow Edge to import data from other browsers, with the accept option more visible than the decline option. Additionally, Microsoft's Copilot and Windows Backup tool opened links in Edge regardless of the user's default browser choice, resetting the default browser to Edge during migration without consent. The study noted regional differences, with fewer harmful patterns in Germany due to the EU's Digital Markets Act, although some issues persisted. The researchers recommend eliminating these harmful design patterns and advocate for global regulatory enforcement.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

You can currently buy three of my all-time favorite microstrategy games for $10

Steam's Games Made in Sweden sale features notable titles such as Vermintide, Darktide, Payday, Valheim, Amnesia, and Satisfactory, with many available at discounts. Vermintide 2 is priced at £2.34. Three microstrategy games highlighted in the sale are Bad North, Kingdom Two Crowns, and The Battle of Polytopia, all available for under £10. Bad North involves defending islands from Viking invasions, Kingdom Two Crowns combines town-building with exploration and co-op gameplay, and The Battle of Polytopia offers quick 4x gameplay with 16 civilizations and various modes. Some notable titles, like Arc Raiders, are not included in the sale.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

EU Imposes Sanctions on Tech Giant VK and State-Backed MAX Messaging App

The European Union has sanctioned VK, the Russian technology firm behind VKontakte and its subsidiary MAX, due to their involvement in cyber activities and providing personal data to Russian authorities against dissenters. These sanctions were formalized on July 13 and align with a broader effort involving the UK, targeting individuals and entities linked to Russia's cyber operations. The MAX application is developed under the oversight of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). Additionally, Apple's removal of VK applications from its App Store has prompted a response from the Kremlin, with government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicating a need for clarification from Apple on this decision.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Going from skull-cracker to safecracker in Dishonored 2

The author reflects on their experience playing Dishonored and its sequel, detailing their initial chaotic playstyle that led to a High Chaos ending. They express a desire to adopt a stealth approach in the game, facing challenges from the Chaos system and the deteriorating state of the city. In Dishonored 2, they aim for a flawless run without kills or detections, which requires extensive planning and execution. The Clockwork Mansion mission tests their resolve, particularly when confronting the character Kirin Jindosh and solving the Jindosh Lock puzzle. The author ultimately finds satisfaction in solving the puzzle independently, using creativity and notes to aid in their success.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Weekend PC Game Deals: GTA, Borderlands, Kingdom Come, Stray and more

The Epic Games Store is offering two free titles this week: Nova Lands and Tattoo Tycoon, available until July 16, when Echo Generation and Luto will replace them. The July Humble Choice lineup includes eight games: Sea of Stars: Sunset Edition, TUNIC, Neon White, Police Simulator: Patrol Officers, Drop Duchy - Complete Edition, Sledders, Dicefolk, and Our Adventurer Guild, available for purchase until August 4. Additionally, Humble has released two game bundles: the Narrative Bundle, featuring 12 games, and the Squad Goals bundle, which includes cooperative titles. The GOG store has ended its DRM-free summer sale but continues with standard promotions. Availability and pricing may vary by region.

AppWizard

July 7, 2026

Kingdom Come: Deliverance star says it didn’t lead to work in other games: ‘The industry at large has never really given a f***’

Tom McKay and Luke Dale are the voice actors for Henry of Skalitz and Lord Hans Capon in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2. Luke Dale expressed disappointment that his role in the game did not lead to more opportunities in the industry. He has since turned to streaming on Twitch, where he has gained 72,000 followers, as a way to connect with fans and share his passion for gaming. Dale encourages other actors to consider streaming as a potential avenue for engagement.