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ON THIS DAY: Microsoft offers an olive branch for users of 'Non-Genuine' Windows PCs to get a Windows 10 upgrade
Winsage
May 15, 2026

ON THIS DAY: Microsoft offers an olive branch for users of ‘Non-Genuine’ Windows PCs to get a Windows 10 upgrade

On this day 11 years ago, Microsoft extended full Windows 10 upgrades to non-genuine Windows PCs, marking a shift in its strategy to prioritize a unified Windows ecosystem over strict licensing enforcement. Earlier in the same year, Microsoft announced that owners of licensed Windows 7 and 8.1 PCs could upgrade to Windows 10 for free within a year of its launch, and later allowed users of unlicensed versions to upgrade as well, although they would still be using unlicensed software. This decision aimed to consolidate users onto a secure platform, enhancing security and fostering a cohesive ecosystem.
Telltale’s Batman is free on the Epic Games Store
AppWizard
May 15, 2026

Telltale’s Batman is free on the Epic Games Store

This week, the Epic Games Store is offering two free titles: Telltale’s Batman and Sunderfolk. Telltale’s Batman, a 2016 choice-driven adventure, explores the complexities of Bruce Wayne and is considered a standout title in the Telltale Games portfolio. Sunderfolk, a tactical co-op RPG launched in 2025, has received positive acclaim and recently underwent a 2.0 update that added new missions and characters. Both games are available for free until May 21st, after which they will be replaced by two mystery titles.
The best tool for mirroring Android phones to PC now makes apps feel like desktop software
AppWizard
May 15, 2026

The best tool for mirroring Android phones to PC now makes apps feel like desktop software

Scrcpy v4.0 introduces several key enhancements: - Aspect Ratio Locking: Migration from SDL2 to SDL3 allows native preservation of device aspect ratio when resizing the desktop window, eliminating black borders. - Dynamic Flex Display: A new feature enables dynamic resizing of virtual Android displays, allowing applications to run in standalone windows for improved multitasking. - Non-Invasive “Keep Active” Mode: The new “–keep-active” command maintains the phone screen's activity without changing global screen-timeout settings by sending periodic user-activity signals. - Live Camera Controls: Users can now make real-time adjustments to hardware settings like flash and zoom when using their phones as webcams or streaming camera feeds. - Improved Disconnection Alerts: A clear “disconnected” icon is displayed for two seconds before the scrcpy window closes after a dropped connection, providing better feedback.
NETMARBLE RELEASES GAME OF THRONES: KINGSROAD ON PC AHEAD OF GRAND LAUNCH
AppWizard
May 15, 2026

NETMARBLE RELEASES GAME OF THRONES: KINGSROAD ON PC AHEAD OF GRAND LAUNCH

Netmarble has released Game of Thrones: Kingsroad for PC, featuring an open-world rendition of Westeros and three classes: Knight, Sellsword, and Assassin. The game became available on May 14, 2026, through platforms like the Netmarble Launcher, Steam, and the Epic Games Store. To celebrate the launch, Netmarble is hosting four events with rewards including a Rare Wildling Outfit and a Legendary Artifact Box. A mobile version of the game is set to launch on May 21, 2026. The game is officially licensed by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment on behalf of HBO.
Why I'm still tweaking Windows 11's Registry, even after April's "improvements"
Winsage
May 15, 2026

Why I’m still tweaking Windows 11’s Registry, even after April’s “improvements”

Windows 11's April update includes performance boosts, a refined File Explorer, and a revamped Settings app, but primarily addresses existing issues rather than customization preferences. Users still face challenges with the lack of easily accessible customization options, leading many to rely on registry tweaks to adjust settings not available through the standard Settings menu. Key registry modifications include restoring the classic right-click menu, adding an "End Task" option to the taskbar's right-click menu, disabling Bing search in the Start menu, and removing the Recommended section from the Start Menu. These tweaks enhance functionality and convenience, as the updates do not sufficiently address user customizability concerns.
Avast Antivirus: Essential Protection for Devices Worldwide
Tech Optimizer
May 14, 2026

Avast Antivirus: Essential Protection for Devices Worldwide

Avast Antivirus offers a suite of cybersecurity features, including real-time malware defense, phishing protection, and performance optimization for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It has over 150 million users globally and provides both free and premium plans. The software employs a multi-layered defense strategy, including behavior-based detection and cloud-assisted scanning, and can perform quick and deep scans for malware. Key features include a Wi-Fi Inspector, Software Updater, and mobile protection against harmful applications. Avast blocks over 1.5 billion attacks monthly and offers parental controls in premium plans. It serves users in over 170 countries, particularly in North America and Europe, and operates under Gen Digital, which is publicly traded on Nasdaq.
After all that drama, Subnautica 2 is good
AppWizard
May 14, 2026

After all that drama, Subnautica 2 is good

Subnautica 2 is a combat-free survival game set in an expansive oceanic world where players gather resources, craft gear, and uncover the fate of settlers. The game features an AI supervisor that encourages players to embrace death, allowing for instant respawning. Players can absorb alien DNA to adapt to new biomes, and the game promotes exploration and self-discovery, although some mechanics could benefit from clearer explanations. Co-op gameplay has been introduced, allowing for collaborative base-building. The game is currently in early access and will remain so for up to three years, during which additional content will be added. Despite being unfinished, it has achieved significant sales.
Party Animals' $75,000 AI video contest is a slap in the face to its creative team, and I'm not surprised it's getting blasted on Steam
AppWizard
May 14, 2026

Party Animals’ $75,000 AI video contest is a slap in the face to its creative team, and I’m not surprised it’s getting blasted on Steam

Recreate Games announced an AI video contest called the 'Golden Paw Awards' for players to create short films using generative AI tools, which has led to significant backlash from the community. The contest offers a cash prize of ,000 but has faced criticism for its reliance on AI-generated content, resulting in over 800 unfavorable reviews and a 'Mostly Negative' classification for recent reviews of Party Animals. In response to the negative feedback, Recreate Games issued an apology and proposed three options: canceling the contest, changing it to a non-AI competition, or keeping both AI and non-AI categories. The studio emphasized that they view AI as a tool for creative expression, but this explanation has not alleviated community disappointment.
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