Notion Archives

Winsage

May 15, 2026

This is what I’m doing with my old Windows 10 PC instead of trading it in like Microsoft wants me to

Microsoft is encouraging users to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, but the trade-in value for Windows 10 PCs may not be appealing. Alternatives for aging machines include installing Linux Mint as a dual-boot option, repurposing the PC as a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device using software like TrueNAS Scale, or continuing to use Windows 10 with potential third-party support for security patches after official support ends. The author expresses a commitment to finding a productive use for their hardware rather than discarding it.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

Your Steam Controller screams when you drop it

Valve's new Steam Controller emits the iconic Wilhelm scream when dropped, adding a humorous touch to the device. A review by Ed rated the controller 9 out of 10, highlighting its potential to enhance the gaming experience. The scream feature activates only in Steam Big Picture mode and is best experienced in a quiet environment on a soft surface. Valve has also introduced a reservation system limiting purchases to one unit per person to prevent scalping.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

Playground Games Confirms Forza Horizon 6 PC Leak Came From a Reviewer, an Influencer, or an Insider

A leak regarding the PC version of Forza Horizon 6 was confirmed by Playground Games to have originated from an individual with early access, not a pre-load issue. The company announced strict enforcement actions against anyone accessing the leaked build, including potential franchise-wide and hardware bans. SteamDB indicated that the file list for the game appeared on their platform due to a token dumper, clarifying they do not share keys or facilitate downloads. Playground Games can trace the leaker using unique identifiers in review codes. The official release date for Forza Horizon 6 is set for May 19.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Android Apps on Windows 11: Safe Alternatives After WSA

In 2025, Microsoft announced it would discontinue support for the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), making Android applications non-functional on Windows 11. This decision surprised many users in Indonesia who relied on these applications. HP developed a guide outlining secure alternatives to WSA, which included reputable Android emulators like BlueStacks, LDPlayer, and NoxPlayer, as well as native Windows alternatives such as Microsoft Teams and Microsoft 365 apps. Users were advised against unverified APK sideloading, unofficial emulators, and modified apps due to security risks. Microsoft’s end of support means no further security updates or bug fixes will be provided, and integration with the Amazon Appstore will cease. Users can continue using WSA apps, but they will be exposed to potential security threats. To migrate data from WSA, users were instructed to inventory apps, research alternatives, and export app data before performing a clean uninstall. Best practices for running Android apps safely on Windows included downloading from official sources and keeping software updated.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

How to unlock tools in Outbound: Tips for the Axe, Pickaxe, and other downloads

Signal towers are the primary gateway to unlocking new recipes and blueprints in Outbound. The mechanics behind which craftables appear involve a mix of random number generation (RNG) and specific triggers. Co-op play does not reduce the chances of acquiring new recipes, as any new recipe unlocked is available to all players on that save file. Achieving new milestones, such as lighting campfires or discovering new points of interest, can prompt signal towers to offer new downloads. Recipe downloads are not always tied to specific tower locations, as the same recipes can be received at different towers. Some signal towers may reactivate simply by playing the game, even when the player is not actively engaged. Additionally, collectible blueprints can be found at points of interest or purchased at vending machines using bottle caps.

AppWizard

May 11, 2026

T1’s League of Legends Academy team now has a Faker doppelganger

Each person is said to have approximately seven doppelgangers around the world. Na 'Midir' Heyon-jun, a 19-year-old toplaner for T1 Esports Academy, resembles the renowned League of Legends player Faker and shares the same birthday. Midir's official photo shows him wearing similar circular glasses and a short haircut, and he has a facial structure that resembles Faker's. His in-game alias may reference Faker's mid-lane expertise. T1 Academy is currently leading the 2026 kickoff LCK Academy Series tournament, and Midir has a 100% win rate with certain champions and an overall KDA of 4.6, compared to Faker's KDA of 4.15.

AppWizard

May 11, 2026

Google Pushes Android Apps Into a Bigger ChromeOS Bet

Google is enhancing its Chrome browser by integrating native Android app support to strengthen the Chromebook and laptop ecosystem. This integration is part of a broader strategy to address the lack of software diversity in ChromeOS and is expected to be unveiled during the Android Show on May 12 and the I/O keynote on May 19. The move aims to merge Chrome OS and Android into a unified platform, building on past experiences with Android app integration that showed both potential and challenges. Google plans to ensure that mobile applications adapt seamlessly to larger screens and provide a user experience consistent with traditional laptop software, addressing key functionalities like window management and multitasking.

Winsage

May 11, 2026

Microsoft denies Windows 11 CPU boost trick is a lazy fix, says Apple does this and you love it

The Low Latency Profile feature in Windows 11 temporarily increases CPU frequency to improve responsiveness for high-priority tasks, benefiting even low-powered virtual machines. It is currently available in Windows 11 Insider builds and aims to optimize performance with minimal impact on battery life and thermal performance. Critics have labeled it a "band-aid" solution for a bloated operating system, while Microsoft’s VP Scott Hanselman defended it as a standard practice in modern operating systems. He noted that the feature is particularly effective on ARM architecture, such as Qualcomm's Snapdragon chips, and explained that the complexity of contemporary Start menus requires more processing power than older versions. Microsoft is working to streamline the Start menu while also enhancing performance through the Low Latency Profile.

Winsage

May 11, 2026

I’m impressed that Microsoft keeps on improving PowerToys with smart additions — but I wonder why the newest monitor trick isn’t in Windows 11 by default

Microsoft's PowerToys is a suite of utilities for Windows 11 and 10, developed by Microsoft, that enhances user experience while minimizing security risks associated with third-party applications. The recent PowerToys v0.99 introduced Power Display, a utility that allows users to manage monitor settings such as brightness and color temperature directly from the taskbar. It supports multiple monitors and integrates with Light Switch for automatic mode transitions. Power Display uses DDC/CI technology for hardware-level adjustments and includes troubleshooting guidance for compatibility issues. The update also features Grab and Move, which simplifies window management by allowing users to resize or drag windows easily. There is a demand for these features to be integrated directly into Windows 11, reflecting user interest in enhancing the operating system's functionality.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Vampire Crawlers finds the perfect balance between strategy and automation, and it gives me that Survivors feeling all over again

Vampire Crawlers builds on the mechanics of its predecessor, Vampire Survivors, allowing players to collect and deploy cards with reduced cognitive load during battles. The game features a synergy system that enhances damage output through strategic card selection and mana management. Combat consists of fast-paced waves of enemies, and players can utilize a Play All feature for automation, which can be effective if they have a strong deck. The game is currently featured in the Steam Deckbuilders Fest event.