Parallels

Tech Optimizer
July 17, 2025
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched pgactive, an open-source extension for PostgreSQL that enables active-active replication, allowing databases to stream data asynchronously between instances. Announced in June 2025, pgactive was previously proprietary within AWS's Relational Database Service (RDS) and first appeared in late 2023. The extension supports conflict resolution and bidirectional data syncing, enhancing resiliency for high-availability applications. It is available under the Apache 2.0 license, encouraging community contributions and customization. Pgactive's architecture includes logical replication slots and customizable conflict handlers, essential for fault-tolerant systems. The open-source model promotes transparency and peer review, with potential integrations discussed in developer communities. The initiative aims to transform enterprise database replication and empower developers to innovate without vendor lock-in.
AppWizard
July 16, 2025
Destiny 2: The Edge of Fate has launched, and players have noticed a change in the voice of Ikora Rey due to some voice talent being unavailable for recordings since a May update. Bungie has confirmed that characters like Ikora, Orin, and Chioma will have different voices in the new content and are working on future updates to address this. In the meantime, some characters may have temporary voice casting or remain silent in certain languages, with subtitles enabled by default to ensure players do not miss important story elements. Debra Wilson is the new voice actor for Ikora, known for her role as Savathun in Destiny 2: The Witch Queen.
AppWizard
July 15, 2025
Playing Minecraft on a Mac is feasible, with two primary editions available: Java Edition and Bedrock Edition. Java Edition runs natively on macOS and supports mods, while Bedrock Edition lacks official support for Mac and requires workarounds to run. To acquire Minecraft, users can visit minecraft.net, select Java Edition, download the installer, and launch the game. Mods function similarly on Mac as they do on Windows, with popular mod managers like Forge and Fabric supporting macOS. Hosting a Minecraft server on a Mac is possible but cumbersome, leading many to rent servers instead. In Java Edition, players can join IP-based servers and share addresses with friends. Performance can vary, with modern Macs generally handling the game well, but adjustments may be needed for base models. Minecraft Bedrock does not exist natively for Mac, and the Mac App Store version is the Education Edition. Compatibility issues with mods can arise, and local servers may be blocked by the Mac firewall.
AppWizard
July 13, 2025
Owlcat is developing a role-playing game titled The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, inspired by the narrative depth and character-driven gameplay of BioWare's Mass Effect series. Creative director Alexander Mishulin acknowledged the influence of Mass Effect on their project, stating that many team members grew up playing it and that it has significantly impacted them as game developers. The game aims to blend intricate storytelling with engaging combat mechanics, appealing to both new players and fans of narrative-driven RPGs.
AppWizard
July 12, 2025
Witchfire, developed by The Astronauts, is a first-person shooter that has been in development for nearly a decade. It debuted in early access on Steam after an initial release on the Epic Store in 2023. The game has received two significant content patches in the past seven months. The upcoming update, named Webgrave, will introduce a new region called the blighted town, new weapons including the oracle sniper rifle and the lever-action rifle named nemesis, and a revamped stats system with six core attributes: flesh, blood, mind, witchery, arsenal, and faith. Additionally, a secondary stat system called the Rosary will allow players to equip magical beads for bonuses. The Webgrave update is scheduled for release on July 28.
AppWizard
July 8, 2025
Jack Dorsey, former CEO and co-founder of Twitter, is developing a Bluetooth-based messaging application called Bitchat, which enables communication without internet connectivity, Wi-Fi, or cellular service, using peer-to-peer connections over distances up to 300 meters. The app is currently in the testing phase on TestFlight, which has reached its capacity of 10,000 users. Dorsey has expressed interest in learning about Bluetooth mesh networks and related technologies through this project. The app has sparked discussions about mesh networks and resilient communication, but it has also received mixed reactions, with some users expressing skepticism and concerns about potential misuse.
AppWizard
July 7, 2025
A new Chinese FMV game titled "Revenge on Gold Diggers" has sparked nationwide debate over gender dynamics and misogyny. Players assume the role of Wu Yulun, a man seeking revenge against women who manipulate men into losing their fortunes. The game has faced criticism for reinforcing harmful stereotypes about women, with detractors labeling it as misogynistic rather than anti-fraud. Following the backlash, the creator, Mark Wu, was banned from Bilibili, and the game's name was changed to "Emotional Fraud Simulator" shortly after its release. The game's narrative parallels real-life events, including the case of streamer Pangmao, whose death was linked to financial exploitation by his girlfriend, further fueling online vitriol against women. Critics argue that the game distorts reality and promotes a regressive agenda rather than fostering meaningful discussions about relationships and financial exploitation.
AppWizard
July 6, 2025
Raphael Colantonio, founder of Arkane Studios, has expressed concerns about Xbox Game Pass, labeling it an unsustainable business model that has negatively impacted the gaming industry for the past decade. He believes that Game Pass cannot coexist with other business models and predicts it will either dominate or fail. Colantonio warns that while the service currently appeals to gamers, it may lead to resentment as its long-term effects on game quality and diversity become evident. He draws parallels between Game Pass and the trajectory of streaming services, suggesting that it may lead to similar issues in the gaming industry. Despite these concerns, Microsoft remains committed to Game Pass, which is crucial for its future amid declining console sales.
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