layout Archives

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

Sonic Racing CrossWorlds launches in September with Hatsune Miku, Persona 5, and Minecraft collabs

SEGA has announced the release of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on September 25, 2025, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. Pre-orders are available with bonuses, including early access and the Werehog Pack. The game features 24 tracks and a CrossWorlds mechanic that changes the race's layout after the first lap. It will support full cross-play across all platforms. The character roster includes guest stars like Hatsune Miku, Joker, and Minecraft characters, with additional content available through the Season Pass and Digital Deluxe Edition.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

If you’re sick of software subscriptions, check this out

A Microsoft Office Pro lifetime license is available for .97, significantly reduced from its usual price of 9.99. This license includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. It allows installation on a single Windows PC and is tied to the device rather than a Microsoft account. The software supports all languages, includes complimentary customer support, and provides updates at no extra cost.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Why I Use simplewall Instead of Windows Firewall (And You Should Too)

Simplewall is a rule-based firewall controller for Windows that enhances the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) without replacing it. It allows users to manage network access for applications and services with a user-friendly interface, supporting advanced features like filtering rules by IP, port, or protocol. Users can create tailored profiles for different scenarios and have comprehensive control over network interactions, including blocking telemetry data and automatic updates. Simplewall is lightweight, portable, and operates without background processes or telemetry, ensuring a straightforward user experience. Setting up simplewall involves downloading it, extracting the files, and enabling filters, allowing users to establish a functional firewall profile quickly. While it offers many advantages, such as being open-source and compatible with older Windows versions, it may be overwhelming for beginners and lacks detailed app profiling compared to premium firewalls.

Tech Optimizer

June 6, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus Review 2025: I Found This Top-Rated Security Software Effective and Efficient

Bitdefender Antivirus has a score of 9.5 out of 10, with the following breakdown: Performance: 9/10, Security: 10/10, Customer Support: 9/10, Usability: 10/10, Value: 9/10, Features: 10/10. It has over 500 million users worldwide and offers real-time protection against malware, a scam detector, a VPN, password manager, ad blocker, digital identity protection, dark web monitoring, and data breach detection. Bitdefender's plans include a free version for single-device use and various Ultimate Security packages for individuals and families, all priced at 0 for the first year. The software is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process and minimal impact on system resources during operation. It consistently achieves high marks in third-party lab tests for security and offers various customer support options, though the initial steps to reach a representative can be cumbersome.

Winsage

June 5, 2025

Why I recommend this Linux distro to Windows 10 users who can’t upgrade to 11

SDesk is a free Linux distribution that can be installed on an unlimited number of computers. It uses the GNOME desktop environment designed to resemble Windows and macOS layouts, providing a user-friendly experience with a clean interface. Pre-installed applications include LibreOffice, Geary, GNOME Music, GNOME Video, Octopi, GNOME Maps, and Swirl. Users can install additional software easily through Octopi and Flatpak. SDesk features a responsive layout, quick application performance, and a window snapping feature for workspace organization. However, it has some issues, such as a login freeze after updates and the lack of multimedia codecs for MP3 and MP4 playback. These can be resolved by installing VLC media player. The latest version released is 19.1.

Winsage

June 5, 2025

The First 5 Things To Do After Upgrading To Windows 11

Users are encouraged to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as support for the former ends. The upgrade requires meeting minimum hardware requirements and can be initiated through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. The taskbar in Windows 11 is redesigned with a centered Start menu, but users can revert to a left-aligned layout by adjusting Taskbar settings. Customization options are limited, but third-party applications can offer more flexibility. The Start menu features only Pinned apps and Recommended files by default. Users can customize it by unpinning apps, adding new ones, grouping them into folders, and modifying layout and color through Settings. To free up space after upgrading, users can uninstall unnecessary applications via Settings > Apps and delete Windows 10 installation files by navigating to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files. Disabling unnecessary startup services can enhance boot speed, which can be managed through Task Manager. Privacy settings should be reviewed post-upgrade, with options available under Settings > Privacy & security to adjust permissions and disable data sharing features.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

While tinkering with an old typewriter, this gamer managed to build a real gaming PC capable of running Minecraft.

A gamer transformed an old typewriter into a fully functional gaming PC capable of running Minecraft. The project involved using an H110 motherboard, an Intel i5-6600 processor, a 4GB DDR4 memory module, a GT635 graphics card, a 240GB SATA SSD, a 200W SFX power supply, and a WiFi card. The components were integrated into the typewriter's chassis using hot glue, and the original keyboard was modernized with an Arduino Leonardo microcontroller to make it compatible with PCs. The project received positive feedback on Reddit, highlighting its creativity and eco-friendly approach.

AppWizard

June 2, 2025

Gmail’s new Material 3 Expressive design is secretly hitting some inboxes

Google's Material 3 Expressive style is being integrated into Gmail, featuring a new interface with lighter, raised cards and rounded edges that enhance visual appeal. The design includes a vibrant color palette, making emails appear more layered and engaging. The rollout is gradual, with some users experiencing changes like the account switcher moving out of the search bar, while others have not yet seen this update. Additionally, a new pill-shaped button animation has been introduced for swipes, providing a fluid user experience with haptic feedback during notification dismissals.

AppWizard

June 2, 2025

Lethal Company’s biggest update for months is finally out, and with it comes the much awaited first look at a new monster

Zeekerss has released version 70 of Lethal Company, which includes a revamped mansion, enhanced features, and a new monster called the Giant Sapsucker. The update introduces five new furniture items (fridge, doghouse, sofa chair, microwave, electric chair), a new log titled "Team Synergy," and a new plan for logs that allows players to collect them as rare scrap. Enhancements to the Company Cruiser include reinforced materials, a self-correcting feature, and a speed boost. The radar system has been redesigned with a face cam, a new compass HUD, a path indicator to the nearest exit, and contour lines for outdoor terrain. The mansion now has eight new rooms and hallways with interactable objects, improving exploration and navigation.

BetaBeacon

June 2, 2025

The best Nintendo 3DS emulator on Android just got even better

The update brings performance and compatibility gains on all platforms.