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Winsage
October 4, 2026
Satya Nadella has referred to Copilot as a “new OS for work” during a leadership update, following Microsoft's introduction of the latest iteration of Copilot. The new Copilot app, which replaces the previously named Microsoft 365 Copilot, is currently available for users, although some features like Home, Code, and Autopilot are still forthcoming. The app operates as a standard Windows application, specifically a rebranded Microsoft Edge launcher built on a Chromium framework. Nadella reiterated his vision for Copilot in a post dated October 1, emphasizing its role in consolidating various work functions into a single platform. The Copilot app integrates features such as Home, Office applications, and a proactive command center named Today. Currently, the app primarily functions as a chat interface, with significant features yet to be rolled out. The architecture of Copilot relies on a lightweight launcher and a complete Edge build, resulting in high RAM consumption. Microsoft has shifted Copilot’s architecture from a native WinUI version to a web-based wrapper, supported by a secondary component for additional functionalities. Internal documents reveal a vision for a prototype called CopilotOS, indicating a long-standing ambition to create a cohesive workspace.
BetaBeacon
October 4, 2026
The RedMagic Astra 2 tablet can be turned into a gaming PC by docking it, connecting it to a larger monitor or TV, and using external accessories like keyboards and controllers. It has a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and an internal liquid cooling system that allows for high-quality PC game emulation and native android gaming. External storage is recommended for running high-end AAA games on the tablet.
BetaBeacon
October 4, 2026
DroidDeck is an open-source project that allows users to run Valve's Steam client in Big Picture mode on Adreno Android devices and play Windows games through Valve's ARM64 Proton.
BetaBeacon
October 3, 2026
Nintendo released Pictonico!, a game where players can turn their own pictures into mini WarioWare-style games, resulting in chaotic and fun challenges based on the photos.
AppWizard
October 3, 2026
Chrome for Android supports the use of windows, allowing users to open multiple windows, each with its own tabs while sharing bookmarks and settings. Users can open an unlimited number of windows, which appear distinctly in Android's Recents screen. To open a new window on slab-style phones, users activate split-screen mode, tap the three-dot menu icon, and select "New window." For foldable phones, users can skip the split-screen step. Tabs can be moved between windows using the three-dot menu icon. All open windows can be managed through the Recents multitasking screen, where users can assign names or close them. This window functionality enhances multitasking and organization, making mobile browsing more akin to a desktop experience. Other browsers like Samsung Internet and Microsoft Edge have adopted similar features, while Firefox has not.
AppWizard
October 3, 2026
Google has released the Android 17 QPR3 Beta 1, following the QPR2 release, with a stable version expected in March 2027. The beta includes several enhancements and fixes, such as: - Functional audio output device switching during playback from apps without active media controls. - Stabilized foreground service initiation from Quick Settings tiles. - Adjusted application icons in the app menu to reduce excessive spacing. - Reliable app previews in the recent apps screen. - Improved NFC service stability. - Optimized fingerprint sensor unlocking to prevent device freezes. - Refined Face Unlock settings to avoid crashes. - Enhanced MediaPlayer functionality for non-ASCII audio attribute tags. - Improved application launch stability to reduce ANR errors. - Correct functioning of video calling apps without camera feed rotation in desktop mode. - Streamlined user interface navigation back to the home screen. - Corrected Mobile Data icon anomalies in Quick Settings. - Screen recording now supports front camera functionality. - Stabilized calling apps to prevent crashes after device reboot. - Addressed eSIM profile activation issues. - Minimized battery drain during idle with Flip to Shh enabled. - Stabilized access to battery settings in the Settings app. - Improved audio playback consistency on LHDC v5 Bluetooth devices. - Mitigated cellular service disruptions due to modem reporting issues. - Enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity for automatic reconnections during background wakes. The Android 17 QPR3 Beta 1 system images are available for various Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel 8 models. Users can report issues through the Android Beta Feedback app and join the Android Beta Program for OTA updates. Opting out of the Beta program after installation will result in a data wipe, while opting out before installation will not.
AppWizard
October 3, 2026
On October 1, Google introduced the Guided Vision feature within the Gemini Live platform, aimed at enhancing the experience for users with visual impairments. This feature provides real-time descriptions of camera focus and verbal guidance for optimal viewing. It is designed to assist individuals who are blind or have low vision, as well as those needing visual support, but is not a replacement for medical devices or mobility aids. Guided Vision offers coaching capabilities, giving users verbal prompts to adjust camera positioning for clearer visuals. Practical applications include reading small print, identifying items, choosing outfits, and understanding unfamiliar room layouts. Google collaborated with Aira to train the feature using extensive real-world data and feedback from blind and low-vision communities across multiple countries. Users can activate Guided Vision on Android devices through the Gemini app, Android accessibility shortcuts, or the TalkBack menu. It is compatible with Android devices running version 9 and above and is available in regions and languages where Gemini Live is supported.
AppWizard
October 3, 2026
Google has expanded its Android Auto offerings with the beta version 17.0, followed by the stable version released in late June and early July. Updates have included versions 17.2 and 17.6, with version 17.7 being the latest stable version as of late September 2026. A beta version 17.8 is anticipated. Users can sideload the app for early access, though it carries risks. Android Auto 17 introduced features like Gemini AI integration, a new widgets system, a refreshed Material 3 interface, and Immersive Navigation, which provides a 3D view of surroundings. It also supports 60 FPS FHD video playback for select vehicles and can switch video playback to audio-only mode when the vehicle is in motion.
Winsage
October 3, 2026
Windows 11 uses a thumbnail caching mechanism to store previews of images in specific databases located in %LocalAppData%MicrosoftWindowsExplorer, such as thumbcache32.db and thumbcache1024.db. When a user deletes an image, the corresponding thumbnail may remain in the cache, as deletion does not automatically remove it from the thumbnail database. The cache retains only reduced versions of images, not the original files, which is significant in digital forensics where thumbnails can provide insights even when original files are missing. Users can manage their thumbnail cache using the cleanmgr tool to clear saved thumbnails or disable thumbnail caching through the Local Group Policy Editor or File Explorer settings.
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