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Winsage

August 11, 2026

Microsoft releases Windows 11 August 2026 Patch Tuesday update

Microsoft has enhanced its support services for Windows users by introducing a revamped support interface, improved search functionality, an expanded knowledge base, and live chat support. The new interface categorizes support topics for easier navigation, while the search feature provides tailored responses to user queries. The knowledge base has been enriched with more articles and tutorials, and live chat connects users with representatives for real-time assistance. Microsoft is also encouraging community engagement through forums and focusing on accessibility to accommodate users with varying needs.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Star Wars Zero Company is a very safe XCOM descendant, but its most interesting parts are found in its Midnight Suns DNA

Star Wars Zero Company features turn-based combat and soldier management, drawing comparisons to the XCOM series. Developed by Bit Reactor, founded by former Firaxis staff, the game offers a tactical experience but lacks some depth found in XCOM 2. Early gameplay reveals concerns about its mechanics, with instances of frustrating misses during combat. The game emphasizes teamwork, with classes like astromech droids providing support roles. However, it lacks elements like fog of war and diverse combat arenas, and the enemy variety is limited. While inspired by Midnight Suns, the execution does not reach the same depth, and the game's base is smaller. Players can disable permadeath, and squad management systems allow for creative builds. Overall, while enjoyable, Zero Company has not yet met expectations for evolution in the tactics genre.

Winsage

August 11, 2026

Windows 11’s RAM-hogging, advert-laden Weather app is the poster child for everything that’s wrong with the operating system

The Weather app in Windows 11 can consume over 1GB of RAM, raising concerns about performance and user experience. Microsoft is aware of the need for performance enhancements, particularly for devices with limited RAM, as many manufacturers are reverting to 8GB laptops. The app's memory usage and inclusion of advertisements contribute to user frustration, with complaints similar to those from Windows 10. Users express discontent over ads in native apps, questioning the value of a paid operating system. Microsoft has committed to reducing upselling in Windows 11, and addressing the Weather app's issues could improve user satisfaction.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Cardo’s premium riding app now available with Android Auto compatibility

Cardo has partnered with Apple to enhance its Ride Pro app by integrating it with the Apple CarPlay dashboard system, improving the experience for riders. The update also supports Android users, demonstrating Cardo's commitment to inclusivity. This integration aims to provide enhanced functionalities for a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Notability Brings Fully Native, AI-Assisted Note-taking To Android

Ginger Labs, Inc. has launched its note-taking app Notability on the Android platform via the Google Play Store, allowing millions of new users to access its features. The app was developed with feedback from Android beta testers and includes features such as S pen support, various paper templates, intra-document links to PDFs, and note export capabilities. Notability for Android offers a native experience with unique features like playful pen styles, enhanced handwriting recognition, audio recording with transcription, and real-time syncing across devices. The app also incorporates AI tools for generating quizzes and flashcards, instant live transcription, and access to over 20,000 free note templates. Subscriptions and one-time purchase options are available in the Google Play Store.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Minecraft Drops Huge Update With Tons of Experimental Features

Minecraft has released a substantial update, Bedrock Edition 26.40, in August 2026, featuring numerous enhancements, bug fixes, and experimental features. Key additions include: - Abandoned Camp: A new structure found in various biomes, offering loot and new Straw Beds. - Dappled Forest: A new biome with Poplar Trees, various mobs, and updated fog settings. - Poplar Trees: Introduced with three color variations, yielding Poplar Saplings and new wood blocks. - Red Shrub: A new decorative plant that can be grown using Bone Meal. - Shelf Mushroom: A new mushroom type that grows on Poplar Trees and can be harvested for items. - New Blocks: Addition of Wool Stair and Wool Slab blocks in various colors. - Cushion: An interactive item available in 16 colors for players to sit on. - Straw Bed: A one-time use bed crafted from Hay Bales, allowing players to sleep without setting a spawn point. The update aims to enhance gameplay and creativity across all platforms.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

id Software dev says mass layoffs like Microsoft’s are weakening the games industry, because developers ‘don’t have the incentive to care anymore’

Chris Hayes, lead services programmer at id Software, expressed concerns about Microsoft's mass layoffs and their negative impact on the gaming industry. He argued that cost-cutting measures are stifling creativity and innovation, leading to a demotivated workforce. Developers feel unrecognized and disconnected from their projects, fearing job loss shortly after game launches. Hayes noted that this environment affects the industry's health, with gamers sensing something is wrong. He attributed the discontent to macroeconomic factors and a lack of long-term vision from industry leaders, emphasizing the need for a more sustainable management approach.

AppWizard

August 10, 2026

Linux May Soon Get PC Game Pass via Open-Source Project

Xbox has reduced the pricing of its Game Pass offering, attracting interest from open-source developers, particularly those working on the Heroic Games Launcher. A new open-source project called Xodus aims to bring PC Game Pass games to Linux and macOS by utilizing Valve's Proton and custom runtimes. Previously, Linux gamers had limited access to Game Pass titles, mainly through Xbox Cloud streaming, which faced latency issues. Xodus plans to support third-party launchers like Heroic, Lutris, and Bottles, allowing users to install and launch games via Steam. The development team has made progress in authorization and game downloads and is now focusing on game SDK development to ensure effective gameplay on Linux.

Winsage

August 10, 2026

Azure Arc-Enabled ESUs for Windows Server 2016 Now Available

Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows Server 2016, which will provide critical security patches until January 2030, after the end of extended support on January 12, 2027. Organizations can enroll their Windows Server 2016 instances via Azure Arc to receive these updates without migrating to Azure. The ESUs are available through a pay-as-you-go pricing model, allowing flexibility for on-premises servers and other cloud platforms. By using Azure Arc, organizations gain access to Azure management tools for improved visibility and compliance. IT administrators should connect eligible systems to Azure Arc to manage ESU enrollment and compliance effectively. ESUs are intended as a temporary solution while businesses modernize applications and plan migrations to supported platforms.

Winsage

August 10, 2026

Windows 11 is pulling picture passwords and pushing people to PINs, passwords, and biometrics

Microsoft has removed the option to set up a new picture password for Windows 11 users as part of the July 2026 security update. Users with an existing picture password can continue to use it, but once removed or disabled, it cannot be re-established. Microsoft recommends using Windows Hello PIN, facial recognition, or fingerprint recognition instead.