memory Archives

Winsage

June 22, 2025

With 114 days left until Windows 10 support is ditched, Windows 11 enjoys a last-minute surge in upgrades

Microsoft plans to discontinue support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, despite a strong preference for it among users. As of June 2025, Windows 10's market share dropped from 66% to 49%, while Windows 11's share increased from 29% to over 47%. The gap between the two operating systems has narrowed to 1%. Microsoft has implemented full-screen reminders to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11, branding 2025 as the "year of the Windows 11 PC refresh." Windows 11 adoption has increased, but many PCs are unable to upgrade due to stringent minimum system requirements, which include a 64-bit processor, at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and TPM version 2.0. Microsoft introduced a new category of Windows 11 PCs called Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced capabilities and security measures. Starting October 14, 2025, users on Windows 10 will not receive free updates, leaving them vulnerable to security risks. Users whose PCs do not meet the requirements for Windows 11 can either buy new machines or subscribe to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued support. Enterprise users will pay £48 for the first year of ESU, increasing to £192 for the third year, while consumers can access it for £24 for an additional year. Some users are exploring alternatives like Linux or ChromeOS Flex for older hardware.

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

An unofficial PC port of Mario Kart 64 is now available for download

The NES emulator, 3dSen, was fully released today, and a fan-driven project called SpaghettiKart, a PC version of Mario Kart 64, has also been unveiled. SpaghettiKart is created through reverse engineering and features clean code without any lines from the original game, allowing for public sharing. It requires players to generate the O2R from their own ROMs and currently supports only the US version of Mario Kart 64. Compatibility with Mario Kart 64 HD is uncertain, and while future enhancements like Path Tracing effects and an HD Texture Pack are hoped for, they have not been confirmed. SpaghettiKart includes unique PC-only features such as a Track Editor, Custom Track Importer, Crystal Clear Audio, Harder CPUs, and Freecam. It is available for download with an installation guide.

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

‘The Gilded Age,’ ‘A Minecraft Movie,’ Haim’s ‘I Quit,’ and the best to stream this weekend: June 20, 2025

The Gilded Age returns for Season 3 on Sunday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and Max, featuring Bertha aiming to establish her place in New York society and George expanding his railroads to California. Ada navigates her new role as the lady of the Brook house after marrying Rev. Forte, while Agnes deals with the implications of her sister's wealth. The season highlights evolving relationships and ambitious pursuits. The Waterfront, a family drama by Kevin Williamson, is now streaming on Netflix, focusing on the Buckley family in Havenport. The Buccaneers, based on Edith Wharton's unfinished novel, has its second season streaming on Apple TV+, following American women in 1870s London. Surviving Ohio State, an HBO documentary about Dr. Richard Strauss's abuse at Ohio State University, is available on Max. A Minecraft Movie, featuring Jack Black, is a popular choice among children and has grossed nearly a billion dollars. Frozen: The Hit Broadway Musical is now on Disney+, capturing the West End production of the animated film. Ash, a sci-fi thriller starring Eiza Gonzalez and Aaron Paul, is streaming on Shudder. KPop Demon Hunters is an animated musical action-comedy about a K-pop girl group fighting demons. Friendship, a comedy starring Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd, is available on VOD platforms. Haim has released a music video for "All Over Me," and rock band Wednesday has launched "Wound Up Here (By Holdin On)," the second single from their upcoming album, Bleeds, set to release on September 19.

Tech Optimizer

June 21, 2025

EDB enhances PostgreSQL analytics with open source add-ons

EDB has enhanced its data platform, EDB Postgres AI, to integrate transactional, analytical, and AI workloads. The new engine for PostgreSQL offers independent scalability from cloud storage and is optimized for columnar formats like Iceberg and Delta Lake. It utilizes Apache DataFusion for efficient query execution, achieving speeds up to 30 times faster than traditional PostgreSQL and providing 18 times greater cost efficiency for cold transactional data storage. The analytics accelerator allows analytical queries to be processed by Apache DataFusion within PostgreSQL. EDB claims a total cost of ownership that is six times more favorable and transactional performance that is 30 percent faster than SQL Server. PostgreSQL is evolving to support analytics alongside its traditional transactional capabilities, with EDB's goal being to provide tools for seamless analytics within the PostgreSQL framework without redefining it as an analytics database.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

These 7 games need a remaster, and they need it now

Fallout: New Vegas, released in 2010 by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Bethesda Softworks, is a unique RPG praised for its player agency, writing, and world-building, making it a candidate for a remaster to fix technical bugs and improve visuals. Dragon Age: Origins, released in 2009 by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts, is regarded as the best in its series, but a remaster seems unlikely due to a lack of familiar staff. Black & White, a 2001 game by Lionhead Studios and published by Electronic Arts, is not available on major platforms, and a remaster could enhance its AI and gameplay. Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines, released in 2004 by Troika Games and published by Activision, is a classic RPG with bugs and unfinished elements that could benefit from a remaster to fix glitches and restore content. No One Lives Forever, a 2000 game by Monolith Productions and published by Fox Interactive, is unavailable due to rights disputes, but a remaster could modernize its visuals and controls. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2, released in 2004 by Obsidian Entertainment and published by LucasArts, is an unfinished narrative that could be improved with a remaster to restore missing content. Freedom Force, a 2002 game by Irrational Games and published by Electronic Arts, could benefit from a remaster to improve compatibility and support user-generated content.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Windows 10 is dying as scams skyrocket. We asked a security expert for advice

In this week's episode of The Full Nerd, hosts Adam Patrick Murray, Alaina Yee, Will Smith, and guest Mike Danseglio discuss the end of Windows 10 and its security implications, the rise of scams, and various online security concerns. They explore user transitions to Windows 11, Linux, and vulnerabilities in communication methods. A recent vulnerability allows hackers to steal encryption keys from AMD Ryzen CPUs, prompting firmware updates for users of the Ryzen 3000 series or newer. Asus Armoury Crate users are advised to update due to a critical flaw that could grant hackers administrative rights. Cloud gaming is gaining traction among gamers under 40, provided latency issues are resolved. DDR4 memory prices are rising, indicating a decline of AMD’s AM4 platform. Anker has recalled older power banks due to fire hazards, and Framework has launched a new 2-in-1 DIY laptop. AMD has shared promising benchmarks for its upcoming Ryzen Threadripper 9000 series.

Tech Optimizer

June 19, 2025

Do You Need Antivirus for Chromebook?

Chromebooks are designed with robust security features, including sandboxing, verified boot, and automatic updates, which contribute to their reputation as secure devices. Despite these protections, vulnerabilities can still exist, particularly through phishing scams, risky extensions, and the use of Linux or Android apps. Security experts suggest that users who frequently engage in online shopping, download Android applications, connect to public Wi-Fi, or store sensitive information in the cloud should consider antivirus software for added protection. Recommended antivirus options for Chromebooks include TotalAV Essential Antivirus, Norton Mobile Security, and Avira Antivirus Security, each offering various features and benefits tailored for Chromebook users.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

These are the best audio apps for Android (that aren’t Spotify)

Shazam is a music recognition app that identifies songs quickly and integrates with Spotify and Apple Music. Wavelet is an equalizer app that enhances sound quality with features like a nine-band equalizer and AutoEQ mode, though some advanced options require payment. Audible is a leading audiobook platform with a vast library and subscription options for monthly credits or individual purchases. SoundCloud allows users to explore tracks from emerging artists and offers both free and subscription-based ad-free experiences. Bandsintown helps users locate concerts and music festivals, providing reminders and ticket links. Pocket Casts is a podcast app that enables users to discover and manage shows, with features for organizing and bookmarking episodes available through a subscription.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

Best deals for PC gamers today: boutique rigs and game bundles

Today's technology offerings include high-end and budget-friendly gaming systems. The MAINGEAR RUSH Mk. IV is priced at ,774 and features an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU, 48GB T-Force Xtreem RGB Memory, 2TB T-Force A440 NVMe SSD, ASRock Phantom Gaming X870E Nova WiFi Motherboard, MAINGEAR Epic 360 RGB Cooling, 850W MSI MAG A850GL PSU, and Windows 11 Home. It is designed for serious gamers and delivers exceptional performance within five days of ordering, though GPU availability may vary. The Skytech King 95 is a budget option priced at ,099.99, with an additional 5% coupon available. It includes an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU, AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU, 32GB DDR5 5600MHz RGB Memory, 1TB Gen4 NVMe SSD, 850W Gold PSU, Wi-Fi, Windows 11 Home, and a free RGB keyboard and mouse. The ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless Gaming Keyboard is available for .99, featuring a 96% compact layout, tri-mode connection, hot-swappable NX Snow pre-lubed switches, sound-dampening foam, and durable PBT double-shot keycaps. The ASUS ROG Azoth 75 Wireless Keyboard has an OLED screen and hot-swappable switches, combining high performance with aesthetics. The ASUS ROG Keris II Ace Wireless Gaming Mouse weighs 54g and features ASUS's AimPoint Pro sensor. The Logitech G502 X Plus Wireless Gaming Mouse includes hybrid switches and a 25K HERO sensor. The ASUS ROG Spatha X Wireless Gaming Mouse offers customization options, swappable switches, and wireless charging. The Keychron K6 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard supports wired and wireless use with customizable features. The Crucial T500 2TB NVMe SSD is a fast and affordable storage solution. The AMD Ryzen 5 5500 Processor is budget-friendly and suitable for 1080p gaming and multitasking. The PNY 256GB PRO Elite Prime microSDXC Card is priced under , offering speed and affordability for game storage. The Fanatical NSPCC Charity Bundle 2025 provides 0 worth of family-friendly and indie games for under , supporting the NSPCC. Dynasty Warriors: Origins is the latest installment in the Warriors franchise. The Fanatical Summer Mystery Bundle 2025 offers a gamble for gamers, potentially yielding great titles or quirky indie games at an affordable price.

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

New Surreal Horror Game Concierge Announced For PC

Indie game developer Kodino Artee, in collaboration with publisher Digital Tribe, has announced a new project titled Concierge, set to launch on PC via Steam in September. This surreal horror puzzle game features an elderly man navigating a desolate hotel while grappling with his identity. Players awaken without memory or voice, guided by a cryptic concierge and an antiquated camcorder called the Parasonik. The game offers a nonlinear narrative with six distinct game worlds, each presenting unique mechanics and unsettling puzzles. Players must uncover secrets without guidance, using the Parasonik to reveal phantoms and solve illusions. The game's aesthetic blends melancholy with lo-fi analog horror, creating a sense of psychological decay. Players are encouraged to learn mechanics intuitively, as mastery leads to deeper understanding within its complex environment.