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Winsage

August 20, 2026

I spent time with the August Windows 11 Insider builds, and these 8 changes reveal Microsoft’s next phase for the OS

In early August, there were no new Windows 11 builds released for over 15 days in the Windows Insider Program. On August 17, Microsoft released five new preview builds, introducing several features and enhancements. Key updates include a fully customizable context menu, allowing users to tailor options directly from Settings under Personalization, and improvements to the desktop background experience with higher resolution previews and better slideshow transitions. The Camera Roll backup feature now automatically backs up photos and videos to OneDrive. The Magnifier tool received a visual refresh, and the Windows Recovery Environment was upgraded to reuse eligible Wi-Fi profiles automatically. Microsoft also removed the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) tool and the Drag Tray feature while maintaining access to WMI through PowerShell. File Explorer improvements include a faster launch for the "Home" page and touch scrolling support in the "Recommended" section. Minor visual adjustments were made to the Windows Security app, enhancing its alignment with the Windows 11 design language.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Monzo users reporting issues with the online banking app

Reports of difficulties with the Monzo app began around 11 a.m., escalating to over 3,000 users reporting issues by 1 p.m. and more than 1,000 continuing to report problems by 4 p.m. Users in major cities, including Liverpool, Leeds, London, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, experienced disruptions. A survey revealed that 76% of users faced issues, with 11% struggling with funds transfers and 9% with mobile banking. Monzo acknowledged the difficulties, stating that the app was "experiencing issues" and full functionality was temporarily unavailable, but essential services like card payments and cash withdrawals remained operational. Monzo's spokesperson indicated they were addressing a technical issue and had switched to their backup system, Monzo Stand-in, allowing most features to continue. Downdetector is a platform for users to report issues with various services, tracking problems by comparing user reports to typical levels for that time.

BetaBeacon

August 19, 2026

Supermarket Simulator Discounty with all updates released on iOS and Android

Snapbreak has launched the mobile version of Discounty, a supermarket simulator game developed by Crinkle Cut Games studio. Players can enjoy the first few in-game days for free and explore the town of Blomkest after hours. The game offers approximately 20-25 hours of gameplay and includes all previously released updates.

BetaBeacon

August 19, 2026

Someone ported this classic Xbox 360 game to Android, and it runs on budget devices

An unofficial Android port of Skate 3, known as Skate 3 Mobile, has been released by developer Buku313 on GitHub. The port offers improved performance with a native Vulkan renderer and is playable on the ANBERNIC RG406V Android handheld device. Despite some bugs and crashes, the port delivers smooth performance at a near-locked 60fps. Users can contribute to the development of the port as it is an open-source project. It is recommended to install the port on a secondary Android device to avoid potential risks.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Google Photos could soon let you keep your phone awake all night for a good reason

Google Photos will introduce an "Overnight backup" feature to improve media backup on Android devices, addressing issues caused by background restrictions like Doze mode. Users must keep the app open, connect their device to a charger, and keep the phone unlocked while the screen dims to black during uploads. The feature aims to provide a reliable backup solution for large volumes of media. Users will receive guidance through the process, including reminders to stay on the app and keep the device charged. They can choose to use Wi-Fi or mobile data for backups, with Wi-Fi as the default. The app will alert users if their device overheats during the process and will notify free-tier users nearing storage limits. The feature is not yet available but reflects Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days Launches March 2027 for Console and PC

PikPok has announced that Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days will transition from Early Access to its full 1.0 release in March 2027. The game will be available on multiple platforms, including Steam, the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and GeForce NOW. A new gameplay trailer has been released, showcasing expanded gameplay systems and moral dilemmas. The game has evolved significantly since its Early Access debut, incorporating player feedback and updates to enhance survival mechanics and gameplay. Players will scavenge for resources, manage shelters, and face moral choices in a desolate 1980s Texas. Mario Wynands, CEO of PikPok, expressed excitement for the launch and acknowledged the community's role in shaping the game. Additional information is available on the official website and social media platforms.

Winsage

August 19, 2026

China’s State-Linked Firms Are Moving Away From Windows 10 Due To Security Concerns, Despite The Custom OS Developed By Microsoft Under Stringent Supervision

The Ministry of State Security in China has ordered the removal of the "Government Edition" of Windows 10 from state-operated organizations due to concerns over cyber vulnerabilities. This version was developed through a collaboration between Microsoft and C&M Information Technologies (CMIT) starting in 2016. The plan to transition away from Windows 10, originally set for February 2027, has been accelerated amid rising national security concerns regarding reliance on U.S. technology. China is exploring alternatives for software, including a custom version of Windows 11, Huawei's HarmonyOS, and state-backed Linux distributions like UnionTech’s UOS and Kylinsoft's Kylinsec. Following the announcement, domestic operating system vendors saw a rise in stock prices. The motivations for this shift are linked to geopolitical tensions with the United States, as China emphasizes its commitment to digital security and technological sovereignty.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Tap into the power of Gemini in Chrome on Android.

Gemini in Chrome has launched for all Android users in the U.S., offering features that enhance mobile browsing. It allows users to summarize long articles and answer inquiries about web pages, integrating with Google applications like Calendar and Keep. The Nano Banana feature enables image customization for a personalized browsing experience. Subscribers to AI Pro and AI Ultra can use the auto browse functionality to manage tasks like booking parking or organizing travel plans. Gemini in Chrome is designed with security in mind, detecting threats and requiring user confirmation for sensitive tasks. Users can access Gemini by tapping the icon or through the three-dot menu on their Android devices.

BetaBeacon

August 18, 2026

Pre-registration for Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris for iOS and Android has started

Feral Interactive announced the release of Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris on iOS and Android devices on September 8. The game features four-player co-op gameplay and is set in Egypt, where players must gather fragments of the god Osiris to stop Set from enslaving humanity. The mobile version allows players to play the first level for free and unlock the full game with a .99 in-app purchase.

AppWizard

August 18, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Easy Delivery, Kingdom Rush Vengeance, Front Armies, more

The latest Android game and app deals include titles such as Easy Delivery Co., Front Armies [RTS], Wall Of Insanity 2, 9th Dawn Remake RPG, and Kingdom Rush Vengeance TD Game. Best Buy is celebrating its 60th Anniversary with a sale and pre-order options for the Pixel 11 series, featuring discounts on select models at Amazon. The Olive Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are on sale, and there is a 0 price drop on Samsung’s 16-inch Snapdragon X Elite touchscreen Galaxy Book. There is a current wave of price reductions on Android applications, with many options available for users. Additionally, a variety of other Android app price drops remain active, reflecting a competitive market.