Linux

BetaBeacon
April 30, 2026
The ps5-linux project allows users to transform their PlayStation 5 into a Linux PC, enabling them to run Steam games and emulators using the console's powerful hardware. The project exploits a patched hypervisor vulnerability in the system and is currently only compatible with the original PS5 model running on 3.xx or 4.xx firmware.
Winsage
April 29, 2026
Microsoft has outlined a roadmap for Windows 11 as part of its Windows K2 initiative, focusing on enhancements to user experience by addressing longstanding issues and responding to user feedback. A table detailing Microsoft's commitments includes the following: - Taskbar Repositioning: Allow taskbar at top, left, and right - Status: Preview expected imminently. - Taskbar Customization: More personalization options including smaller taskbar - Status: Preview expected this year. - AI Integration: Reduce unnecessary Copilot entry points in various tools - Status: Copilot in Snipping Tool removed; Notepad Copilot button replaced with AI writing tools. - Windows Update Control: Skip updates during setup; restart/shutdown without forced updates; pause longer - Status: Rolling out now. - File Explorer: Faster launch, reduced flicker, smoother navigation - Status: Work in progress; faster launch times already in testing. - Widgets: Quieter defaults, more control, better personalization - Status: No preview yet. - Windows Insider Program: Simpler channels, clearer definitions, higher-quality builds - Status: Rolling out now. - Feedback Hub: Largest redesign yet - Status: Rolling out now. - System Performance: Reduced resource usage, improved responsiveness - Status: Work underway; some early improvements noted. - WinUI 3 Migration: Move more Windows experiences to WinUI 3 - Status: In progress; Start menu migration confirmed but not yet shipping. - File Explorer Fundamentals: Lower latency for search, navigation, context menus - Status: Committed, not yet being previewed. The Windows K2 initiative aims to improve performance, reliability, and craftsmanship in Windows 11, addressing user feedback to enhance competitiveness against macOS and Linux. The project seeks to reshape internal perspectives on product development to be more user-centric. Regular updates will reflect the latest progress.
Winsage
April 29, 2026
The latest version of PowerToys, 0.99.0, introduces several new features: - "Grab and Move" functionality allows users to drag windows with ALT+left-click and resize them with ALT+click. - The Power Display System Tray Tool enables brightness, contrast, and color-profile adjustments, though compatibility with some external monitors may vary. - Enhancements include a persistent calculator and pinning options in the Command Palette, manual remaps in the Keyboard Manager, scrolling capture in ZoomIt, and a WinUI3 update for Image Resizer.
Winsage
April 27, 2026
Linus Torvalds has announced the closure of the merge window for Linux version 7.1, allowing public testing to begin with the first release candidate now available. This version includes a significant rewrite of the NTFS code aimed at improving dual-boot experiences between Windows and Linux. Additionally, Linux 7.1 will gradually phase out support for the i486 Intel processor and some older networking technologies and SoC configurations. Users can find the release candidate in Linus' Linux Git repository and are encouraged to report any bugs.
AppWizard
April 26, 2026
Valve has introduced new beta Steamworks tools for game developers as part of its Steam Deck Verified Games initiative. These tools allow developers to monitor average framerates over the past 30 days and access user survey results regarding the Verified status of their games. Participation in data collection is opt-in, ensuring user privacy. The user survey appears after at least ten minutes of gameplay, allowing users to agree or disagree with a game's Verified status and provide feedback on various criteria. The Steam Deck Verified program assesses game compatibility based on four criteria: Controller input, Display, Seamlessness, and System support. Games are rated as Verified, Playable, Unsupported, or Unknown, with these ratings displayed in the Steam store. Valve may potentially make the collected data accessible to the public in the future.
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