Notion Archives

Winsage

April 24, 2026

Stop installing these 4 apps—Windows does it all now

Windows has evolved to integrate functionalities that were once reliant on third-party applications, such as native support for ZIP files introduced in Windows ME in 2000, and the ability to open and create RAR, TAR, and 7z formats directly from File Explorer. Features like Storage Sense have replaced the need for tools like CCleaner by allowing users to manage temporary files more easily, and the effectiveness of Windows Defender has reduced the necessity for third-party antivirus solutions. Additionally, modern Windows can mount ISO files directly, eliminating the need for applications like Daemon Tools. The trend of operating systems adopting features from third-party applications, known as "Sherlocking," reflects a response to user demands while still allowing for optional third-party solutions.

Winsage

April 24, 2026

Microsoft uses your computer to send Windows updates to computers worldwide

Windows computers remain active during periods of inactivity to facilitate updates for other computers globally using the user's device and internet connection. Users can disable the peer-to-peer update sharing feature to receive updates exclusively from Microsoft's official website, which enhances security, improves performance, and better utilizes internet connectivity.

AppWizard

April 22, 2026

Google executive responsible for AI has a solution for the game industry’s problems, and you’re not going to believe this but it’s AI

Jack Buser, the global director for games at Google Cloud, is focusing on using AI and cloud solutions to tackle challenges in the gaming industry. He noted a rebound in revenue growth but highlighted issues such as declining profits, project cancellations, and layoffs, with only Roblox and the Chinese market thriving. Buser advocates for AI as a potential solution, despite concerns about "rightsizing" strategies that may prioritize profits over employee welfare. His previous role at Stadia ended with mixed results, raising doubts about the feasibility of AI-driven game development. The industry is still awaiting a groundbreaking AI-generated game. Buser emphasizes the need for clearer discussions about AI and suggests that embracing it could lead to easier revenue generation, similar to trends in reality television.

Winsage

April 22, 2026

‘A performance tool that requires a graduate seminar before breakfast has already lost the room’: Why Windows Task Manager looks like it’s getting CPU usage wrong

Users have expressed frustration with Windows 11's Task Manager CPU usage reporting, believing it relies only on base clock speeds. Dave Plummer, the original architect of Task Manager, indicated that discrepancies may arise from average calculations and inherent compromises in the metrics. In response, Microsoft announced a fix in a recent Preview build, stating that Task Manager will now use standard metrics for CPU utilization across all pages to align with industry standards. Plummer also suggested a distinct Windows mode for power users to enhance flexibility.

Tech Optimizer

April 21, 2026

Best Free Antivirus 2026: Keep Your Devices Safe With These Free Tools

Many free antivirus services monetize user attention or data, and caution is advised when selecting these options. Recommended free antivirus tools should be free of ads or spyware. Trustworthy antivirus providers present clear privacy policies detailing data collection and sharing practices. Effective free antivirus tools offer real-time protection, on-demand malware scans, and user-friendly features. While free antivirus software is generally sufficient, paid options provide additional cybersecurity tools. The best free antivirus tools consume less than 5% of system resources, with active scans ideally not exceeding 40% CPU usage. Avast faced backlash for selling customer data to over 100 third parties and was fined million by the FTC in 2024. Kaspersky was banned in the U.S. in 2024 due to concerns about potential intelligence exploitation, and it cannot be recommended at this time.

AppWizard

April 21, 2026

Google’s most basic app has turned my dad into a Pixel super-fan

The author's family recently transitioned to Google Pixel phones, which has particularly pleased the author's father due to the Pixel Weather app. The switch was motivated by the need for easier remote troubleshooting and a consistent user experience. The father's fondness for the app stems from its clarity, straightforward design, and absence of ads, making it more enjoyable to use. The app provides accurate weather forecasts for their hometown in Lebanon and features a large, readable font that caters to the father's visual needs. The family has a longstanding interest in weather information, and the app's customization options have enhanced the father's smartphone experience.

AppWizard

April 20, 2026

I thought this sci-fi mystery looked cool, but my interest dropped when I realized it’s another multiplayer survival-crafting game

Blind Descent is a multiplayer co-op survival game set on Mars, where players navigate a hidden world beneath the surface, encountering alien technology and mutation-inducing plants. The game features crafting elements and emphasizes teamwork and resourcefulness. It is set to launch into early access on Steam later this year.

AppWizard

April 19, 2026

A ludicrous Doom mod which adds 28 pilotable mechs just released after 2 years in development

MechDoomer: Rebooted is a mod that combines the classic first-person shooter Doom with strategic elements from MechWarrior. It features a revamped user interface and "mech-assault styled movement," allowing players to customize gameplay with various weapon slots. Players can exit their mech at will, enhancing exploration and strategy. The mod is compatible with other mods, including weapon and monster mods, enabling further gameplay customization.

AppWizard

April 17, 2026

PC Free Game Is A Gorgeous 2025 Release That’ll Save You $30

The Stone of Madness is a free PC game inspired by 18th-century artist Francisco De Goya, featuring hand-painted settings and characters dealing with mental health issues. Players assist these characters in escaping their traumas within a top-down adventure set in a Monastery. The game is currently available for free on the Epic Games Store until April 23, 2026.

AppWizard

April 14, 2026

Rockstar Games hack shows why GTA 6 isn’t releasing on PC and console simultaneously

Rockstar Games experienced a security breach involving a third-party service, leading to the public release of stolen data after the company declined a ransom demand. The leaked information suggests that PC players contribute only 3% to the weekly bookings of GTA Online, amounting to approximately 4,273, while PlayStation 5 players account for 476,346 in bookings with a weekly active user count of 3,474,021. The weekly active user counts are 894,621 for PC and 3,474,021 for PlayStation 5. This financial disparity may influence Rockstar's release strategies, particularly regarding the anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6.