Standard support for Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition and Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL version 13 will end on February 28, 2026. PostgreSQL 13 will be deprecated by the community in November 2025, ceasing to receive bug fixes or security patches. AWS recommends upgrading to newer versions, such as 16 or 17, which offer significant performance enhancements and improved security. PostgreSQL 17 can achieve up to twice the write throughput and consumes 20 times less memory during vacuum operations. Version 16 introduces pg_stat_io for detailed I/O statistics, while version 14 includes a vacuum emergency mode. Aurora-specific enhancements in version 14.9 and later can lead to faster query latency and reduced costs.
Version 14 introduces new roles for access control, and version 15 revokes certain permissions. Major upgrades in logical replication include automatic slot synchronization in version 17 and support for parallel apply in version 16. Transitioning between major versions requires careful examination of catalog changes, as some views and configuration parameters will evolve. Extensions must be verified, as most do not auto-upgrade.
An in-place major version upgrade can be performed via the AWS Console or CLI, with downtime varying based on database size. AWS recommends snapshot-based testing beforehand. The CLI command can check valid upgrade targets, leading from version 13 to 14, 15, 16, or 17. Preparation involves validating instance classes and dropping replication slots.
Amazon RDS Blue/Green deployments allow for near-zero downtime by synchronizing production with a staging environment, enabling application testing before traffic switching. This feature is supported from Aurora PostgreSQL version 13.12 onward. Logical replication through pglogical offers flexibility for minimal downtime, while AWS DMS supports homogeneous migration with Change Data Capture.
Extended Support is available for a fee, providing up to three years of security patches. Best practices include replicating production environments in staging, conducting load tests, and validating queries against new catalogs. Recent minor releases, including Aurora PostgreSQL 17.6 and 16.10, showcase ongoing improvements. Engaging AWS Support is advisable for complex setups to ensure seamless transitions before the deadline.
Many new vehicles are opting to forgo Android Auto while still providing essential features through Android Automotive OS, also known as Google Built-In, which is integrated into the vehicle and does not require a smartphone connection. This proprietary software may require additional subscriptions. Samsung DeX allows users with newer Samsung devices to connect to an external monitor or TV, creating a desktop-like experience in the car using AutoPro X, which connects wirelessly to the car's infotainment system. This setup enables access to streaming services when parked but emphasizes driver focus on the road. For vehicles lacking Android Auto support, users can mount their Android phone or tablet on the dashboard for navigation, calls, and music, while third-party applications can enhance the experience. Automakers may discontinue Android Auto to optimize data usage and restrict third-party app installations. Drivers can use their car's built-in browser to access features like phone mirroring or web-based versions of apps, such as Waze, as alternatives to Android Auto.
Microsoft has removed the 'find album information' and 'update album info online' functionalities from the Media Player applications in Windows 11. Neither the Windows Media Player Legacy nor the latest Media Player app can connect to retrieve data such as album artwork, track names, and details when an audio CD is inserted. The built-in 'Find Album Information' service, which relies on musicmatch-ssl.xboxlive.com, is unreachable. Users attempting to update album information in the latest Media Player app receive an error message indicating a connection issue, despite having a stable internet connection. The removal of these features is disappointing for users who still appreciate physical media, especially as optical drives are becoming rare in new computers.
The conclusion of Stranger Things Season 5 has led to rumors of a hidden final episode that may address lingering concerns about the series' finale. A new game titled I Hate This Place, based on a comic book, is set to be released later this month and features a craft-based, isometric survival horror experience with a nostalgic ‘80s aesthetic. A free demo is available on Steam, and the full game will also be released on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Numerous antivirus providers are currently offering exceptional deals on reliable software, with prices comparable to a year’s subscription to Netflix's premium plan. Antivirus coverage is crucial as the financial repercussions of a malware attack can exceed the cost of subscriptions. Available antivirus solutions protect against malware, viruses, spyware, and phishing attempts, and may include features like a VPN, password manager, and identity protection. Comprehensive packages can support protection for up to 10 devices, with notable options including Norton 360 Premium, McAfee Total Protection, and Bitdefender Total Security. These programs provide robust real-time protection across various operating systems and include enhancements such as webcam protection, hardened browsers, and ransomware rollback.
Minecraft has collaborated with Stranger Things, introducing 49 unique skins and a new map. The game allows players to experience the 1980s ambiance and embark on quests in Hawkins, encountering iconic moments from the series. Players can choose from characters like Eleven, Dr. Brenner, Vecna, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Suzie, each with unique abilities. The Stranger Things Minecraft DLC is available for .99 but is not accessible to Nintendo Switch users. The Duffer Brothers have drawn inspiration from classic video games for the fifth season of Stranger Things, and there are speculations about a secret ninth episode following the finale.
Mojang has released a new DLC for Minecraft based on Stranger Things, allowing players to explore Hawkins and the Upside Down while engaging with key moments from the first four seasons of the series. The DLC is available on the Minecraft Marketplace for modern platforms but is not compatible with the Nintendo Switch due to memory limitations, requiring a minimum of 6GB of RAM. Players can interact with iconic locations and characters, including a blocky version of Murray, and experience the narrative in an open-world format. Those who purchase the DLC before January 25, 2026, will receive a Hellfire Club t-shirt for character customization. The update aligns with the release of Stranger Things’ final season and emphasizes Mojang’s focus on narrative integrity and accessibility across platforms. The DLC encourages exploration and challenges, continuing Mojang’s trend of collaborating with external media franchises.
- Rockstar Games' Red Dead Redemption was released on mobile in 2025, including the original story campaign and Undead Nightmare expansion, priced at .99 or available through a Netflix subscription.
- Subnautica also transitioned to mobile, offering a survival adventure set on an alien oceanic planet, optimized for touch controls and supporting controllers, priced at .99.
- Persona 5: The Phantom X delivered a mobile-specific RPG experience with gacha mechanics and turn-based combat, maintaining ties to the original Persona 5 storyline, and offering free-to-play mechanics.
- Where Winds Meet is an open-world wuxia title on mobile with demanding hardware requirements, featuring cross-progression support and light monetization.
- DREDGE brought its Eldritch fishing simulation to mobile, included in Google Play Pass for subscribers, priced at .99.
- Cassette Beasts is a premium turn-based RPG inspired by Pokémon on mobile, offering cassette monster collection and combat, priced at .99.
- Destiny: Rising brought the FPS MMO experience to mobile for free, with typical NetEase monetization strategies.
- Enter the Gungeon and Exit the Gungeon were released on mobile simultaneously, offering bullet hell and platforming gameplay with touchscreen and controller support.
- Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown combined platforming and Metroidvania elements in a 2.5D action-adventure on mobile, offering offline play and full controller support.
- Red Dead Redemption is a popular open-world action game set in the Wild West that can now be played on smartphones.
- The Android release includes the full game and the Undead Nightmare expansion, and is available for free with a Netflix subscription.
