new features Archives

AppWizard

May 5, 2025

The first big REPO update is available to test

REPO's update 0.1.2.21_beta is currently available for players through an open beta on Steam. To access it, players can right-click on the game's title, select properties, and then betas. The update includes a new level and a random matchmaking feature. Semiwork has confirmed that REPO will not become free-to-play and will not include microtransactions, but players can earn cosmetics through gameplay.

Winsage

May 5, 2025

Microsoft Opens Windows 11 24H2 Update to All Users

Windows 11 24H2 was released in October of the previous year and includes enhancements such as an enriched File Explorer, a transformed Start menu with integrated Phone Connection and Power Settings, improved video calling, and increased incorporation of artificial intelligence. The initial rollout faced deployment challenges due to unforeseen bugs, but these have been addressed, and the update is now considered stable for widespread adoption. Minor issues remain, but they are classified as non-critical, allowing for expanded availability. Windows 11 24H2 is accessible for download on all compatible PCs, and users can upgrade from older versions by checking for updates in Settings. Additionally, automatic updates are being rolled out for unmanaged Windows 11 devices running versions 23H2 and 22H2.

Winsage

May 5, 2025

Microsoft quietly fixed broken Windows 10 jump lists

Microsoft acknowledged a problem affecting Windows 10 users related to jump lists on the Start menu, which began with the release of update KB5052077 on February 25, 2025. This issue affected users' ability to access jump lists for applications pinned to their taskbars, particularly for Excel and Word. The disruption was caused by a feature rollout aimed at enhancing account control experiences in Windows 10 version 22H2, which started in March 2025. Microsoft halted this rollout on April 25, 2025, and implemented a service change that automatically resolves the issue for affected systems. The problem primarily impacted Windows 10 version 22H2 Home and Pro editions, while Windows 11 users were unaffected. Users need to ensure their devices are connected to the internet to receive the automatic resolution after rebooting.

AppWizard

May 4, 2025

Minecraft has not gotten worse, you were happier

Minecraft is a sandbox game that has evolved significantly since its initial release over fourteen years ago, receiving regular updates that introduce new blocks, mobs, and mechanics. While some players prefer the simplicity of earlier versions, others appreciate the innovations and complexities of newer updates. Critics argue that recent iterations have diminished the game's quality, but this perspective overlooks the fact that the newer versions are simply different, not inferior. The game encourages creativity and allows players to engage with any version they prefer, fostering a diverse community. Significant changes, such as the revamping of the Nether and the expansion of caves, have added new layers of difficulty. The fondness for earlier versions is often rooted in nostalgia rather than a decline in quality, and Minecraft's ongoing evolution is essential to its longevity and appeal.

AppWizard

May 2, 2025

Signals crossed: How Signal Messenger thrived as support for Mike Waltz took a dive

Signal, the encrypted messaging app, has seen a surge in popularity due to increased media attention on the White House's Houthi attack plan scandal. The app's usage has risen as public perception shifts, with many viewing Signal as a champion of privacy amidst concerns about data breaches and surveillance. The app has reported a notable increase in daily active users, and market analysts anticipate potential expansions and innovations as competitors take note of Signal's success. The scandal has led to discussions about privacy and security, particularly affecting key figures within the U.S. government.

Tech Optimizer

May 2, 2025

Amazon Aurora now supports PostgreSQL major version 17

Amazon Aurora has integrated support for PostgreSQL major version 17, specifically version 17.4. This release includes enhancements such as improved memory management, faster storage metadata initialization, and optimizations for write-heavy workloads on Graviton 4 instances. It also introduces new features for Babelfish, security updates, and revisions to extensions like pgvector 0.8.0 and postgis 3.5.1. PostgreSQL 17.4 is available across all commercial AWS Regions and AWS GovCloud (US) Regions. Users can create a new Aurora PostgreSQL-compatible database through the Amazon RDS Management Console and should review the Aurora documentation for upgrade strategies.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

Google Voice adds three-way calling support alongside its interface rework

Google has introduced a new update for its Voice app that enables three-way calling for Workspace subscription holders, allowing users to create conference calls by adding another participant. The update includes a refreshed user interface with more accessible key tools for managing calls, such as prominently displayed "Add" and "Merge" options. This feature is available to Google Workspace customers on Voice Starter, Voice Standard, and Voice Premier plans, as well as SIP Link Standard and SIP Link Premier customers. The rollout began on May 1 and is expected to reach all Google Voice users within approximately 15 days. Earlier in February, Google Voice added a "call delegation" feature, allowing users to transfer calls to another person with options for immediate transfer or confirmation before proceeding, including the ability to transfer calls from personal accounts to paid enterprise accounts.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

Google Search AI Mode opens up to more people with new features

Google is making its AI Mode accessible to all users in the U.S. by eliminating the waitlist system. The rollout includes new tools, such as a feature that provides a history of search results, aimed at improving the search experience. Users will see an enhanced interface that offers detailed information from search results, including localized content about nearby businesses with ratings, reviews, and operating hours. Additionally, Google is testing AI Mode with a select group of users outside of Labs, indicating plans for broader deployment.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

Assassin’s Creed Shadows announces more difficulties, more immersion options, more Jesuits, and a bo staff in its year 1 roadmap

Ubisoft has announced a post-launch roadmap for Assassin's Creed Shadows, featuring a year of updates that include patches, new features, and enhancements. This month, players can expect: - A free quest focused on Yasuke's companion, Luis Frois. - Quality-of-life improvements, including the potential reinstatement of the multi-sell feature. - An updated photo mode for creative expression. - A special collaboration similar to past co-marketing efforts. - Refinements to parkour mechanics, introducing new movement options. Future content will include: - A new free quest and ally. - New difficulty settings. - Gameplay immersion options, such as headgear visibility in cutscenes. - An open-world alarm system with unspecified changes. Ubisoft has also teased expansions, including new storylines, collaborations, unique gear for the battle-pass system, and the Claws of Awaji expansion, which will add a new region. Additionally, Naoe will be able to wield a bo staff, enhancing combat dynamics.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

Windows 11 April security patch quietly blocks 24H2 update, but are you impacted?

Microsoft is preparing to release the Windows 11 25H2 update in October, aimed at facilitating the transition to Windows 11 24H2. However, the rollout of Windows 24H2 has faced issues, with many PCs experiencing blocks due to third-party applications and technical problems. The April security patch, released on April 8, has complicated the upgrade process for some users, particularly those with the patch KB5055528 installed, leading to error code 0x80240069. This issue mainly affects IT administrators using Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), while individual users on Windows 11 Home are largely unaffected. Microsoft is investigating the problem and plans to release a fix by the next Patch Tuesday on May 13. Additionally, organizations are advised to explore alternative update management solutions, as WSUS is no longer under active development.