licensing Archives

Winsage

January 12, 2026

2026 Shift: Professionals Ditch Windows 11 for Linux’s Speed and Savings

Professionals are increasingly moving away from Windows 11 to various Linux distributions due to dissatisfaction with performance issues and intrusive features in Windows. A 2025 analysis showed Linux distributions outperforming Windows by an average of 19.5% in everyday tasks. Performance tests indicated that SteamOS, a Linux-based platform, often matched or exceeded Windows 11 in gaming performance. Linux's lightweight nature and superior system administration tools appeal to those managing servers and virtual environments. Security concerns regarding Windows 11, including privacy issues and forced updates, have led users to prefer Linux's open-source model, which allows for greater transparency and customization. Economic factors also play a role, as Linux is free and open-source, eliminating licensing fees associated with Windows 11. User-friendly distributions like Linux Mint facilitate the transition for new users, and community support helps address common challenges. Large organizations are increasingly adopting Linux for its stability and responsiveness, while the Linux community fosters rapid improvements and adaptability. User feedback highlights privacy, performance, and customizability as key benefits of switching to Linux.

AppWizard

January 6, 2026

How Android Apps Are Adapting To The Rise Of Cross-Platform Digital Payments

Android developers are adapting to a rapidly changing global payments landscape, driven by user demand for seamless experiences across platforms, shifting regulatory frameworks, and the rise of cross-border transactions through mobile applications. This evolution is particularly relevant for international sectors like igaming, which often utilize alternative payment methods under offshore licensing. Developers are focusing on streamlined in-app experiences by adopting payment frameworks that enhance security and expedite verification processes. Over the past two years, payment standards have diversified, leading to the implementation of unified payment layers in Android apps to accommodate various tokens, cards, mobile wallets, and region-specific methods. The number of global mobile payment users is projected to reach 5.6 billion by 2025, highlighting the need for cross-platform support. Mobile wallets, NFC, and universal payment APIs are being integrated more deeply into the Android ecosystem, allowing for instant recognition of users' preferred wallets. Streaming platforms are adopting cross-platform billing strategies, while travel apps are implementing flexible frameworks to adapt to regional regulations. In online gaming, there's a focus on diverse payment options to meet international audience expectations. By 2026, Android applications are expected to feature more cohesive payment interfaces, increased biometric verification, and dynamic updates of payment methods based on user location and device capabilities.

Winsage

January 4, 2026

How to Install Windows Configuration Designer Using Winget Command

The Windows Configuration Designer is a tool from Microsoft that allows users to create provisioning packages for automating the setup of Windows devices. These packages, saved as .ppkg files, can pre-configure settings such as network configurations, user accounts, and device names. The tool is not pre-installed on Windows systems and is primarily intended for IT administrators. It can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store or installed via the command-line tool winget, which requires the package name to be enclosed in double quotes for proper recognition. The installation process involves opening a terminal as an administrator, checking for winget availability, and executing the installation command. The download size is approximately 30 to 50 MB, and installation typically completes in under a minute. Users can verify the installation by searching for the application or using winget commands. Alternative installation methods include using the Microsoft Store or the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK). The tool is free and does not require a Microsoft account for winget installations.

AppWizard

January 2, 2026

Development of a Counter-Strike 1.6 remake has been “frozen” as Valve silence leaves its future in doubt

CS: Legacy, an unofficial remake of Counter-Strike 1.6 developed by a team of veteran modders, has faced significant challenges since its announcement. The project aimed to use Valve's 2013 Source Engine but received a warning from a Valve employee regarding the use of the Counter-Strike intellectual property, leading to uncertainty about its future. Communication with Valve has been minimal, prompting the developers to freeze the project and seek one last attempt to engage with Valve while shifting their focus to a new multiplayer game in the Godot engine. The team has refunded Patreon backers and halted development, expressing frustration over the lack of response from Valve. They have made progress on their new game, which features elements reminiscent of classic Valve shooters.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Millennium Whisper and the case for ethical, on-device AI in games

A recent survey by Google Cloud found that 90% of game developers are exploring generative AI. Millennium Whisper, a dating sim by Parable Studios, is the first game on Steam to run a large language model entirely on-device, avoiding cloud-based inference. This approach allows for unique in-game conversations and addresses ethical data usage, as actors retain ownership of their data and receive royalties. The game uses actor-led role-play sessions for character behavior, ensuring high-quality data. Running AI locally enhances energy efficiency and sustainability, contrasting with traditional server-based models that incur ongoing costs. Millennium Whisper received grant funding from Innovate UK and is currently in Early Access. Ambrose Robinson, the founder of Parable Studios, emphasizes the importance of energy savings and the sustainability of their AI approach.

Tech Optimizer

December 29, 2025

Software supply chain attacks pose huge dangers – here’s how to bolster your defenses

65% of organizations faced supply chain attacks in the past year. Only 24% of organizations analyze AI-generated code for security or intellectual property issues. Organizations employing at least four types of compliance measures report faster action on critical vulnerabilities, with 54% acting more swiftly compared to 45% of the broader respondent pool. Continuous automation improves remediation speed and defense effectiveness, while many organizations still rely on inadequate periodic manual monitoring.

AppWizard

December 23, 2025

There’s a Transformers XCOM-like on Steam, and it’s on sale for 90% off before it gets delisted

Transformers: Battlegrounds will be delisted from Steam on December 31 due to an expiring licensing agreement. The game is currently being offered at a 90% discount. It features tactical gameplay aimed at younger audiences, with characters from the Transformers franchise.

AppWizard

December 22, 2025

Forgotten 1993 shooter from Duke Nukem dev is back and better than ever with a full remaster thanks to two die-hard fans

Biomenace Remastered is a fan-made remaster of the classic 1993 shooter developed by Apogee, created by two fans, Niko and Bart, who secured a licensing deal with the original developer, James Norwood. The remaster features the original three episodes with 36 levels and introduces a fourth chapter with 15 additional stages, new NPCs, and two extra boss encounters. It includes a built-in editor for players to create missions, offers seamless transitions between new and classic visuals, and has a quick-save feature. The game incorporates Steam achievements and leaderboards and is verified for Steam Deck. Biomenace Remastered is available on Steam for .99 / £10.23 until December 25, after which the price will increase to .99 / £12.79, with a free demo also available.

AppWizard

December 12, 2025

Sam Altman’s Biometric ID ‘Super App’ Launches Encrypted Messaging and Crypto Payments

World, supported by Sam Altman, launched an upgraded application featuring encrypted messaging and enhanced cryptocurrency payment capabilities. The app allows users to confirm their identity as unique humans online through biometric authentication with World ID. Key features include: - World Chat offers Signal-level encryption and color-coded verification badges for user identity confirmation. - Users can receive paychecks and bank deposits directly in the app and convert funds to cryptocurrency. - The company has verified under 20 million people and aims to reach one billion iris scans. - The app includes social features aiming to create a messenger platform similar to WhatsApp or Telegram, with a focus on security. - Users verify their identity by having their iris patterns scanned by an Orb device, which converts the data into encrypted digital codes for World IDs. - Orb Minis, handheld devices for home self-scans, were introduced to ease the verification process.

AppWizard

December 12, 2025

World launches its ‘super app,’ including crypto pay and encrypted chat features

World, a biometric ID verification initiative co-founded by Sam Altman, has launched an updated app featuring an encrypted chat integration and enhanced cryptocurrency functionality. Founded in 2019 by Tools for Humanity, World aims to combat AI-generated digital impersonations and establish digital "proof of human" tools. The app's World Chat messenger offers end-to-end encryption and color-coded speech bubbles for verified contacts. Users can now send and receive cryptocurrency, receive paychecks, and deposit bank funds without prior verification. World uses an iris-scanning device called Orb for authentication, converting iris data into a unique digital code for a World ID. The company has scanned fewer than 20 million eyes, with aspirations to reach one billion. To simplify the verification process, Tools for Humanity introduced Orb Minis, hand-held devices for self-scanning eyes at home.