Parties Archives

Tech Optimizer

October 17, 2026

Microsoft Wants to Protect Your Linux Desktop with Defender

Microsoft has expanded its Defender security software to Linux desktop environments, currently in public preview. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is designed for organizations using Linux workstations and aims to enhance security for developers who interact with sensitive resources. Key features include real-time antivirus protection, endpoint detection and response, threat investigation, vulnerability management, and centralized security monitoring. The software uses the same deployment packages and installation methods as those for Linux servers, supporting distributions like Ubuntu LTS, Debian, Fedora, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, openSUSE Leap, SUSE Linux Enterprise, Rocky Linux, and AlmaLinux. Compatibility with desktop environments is based on the underlying distribution and kernel. The software identifies devices by assessing operating system metadata, and if it cannot classify a machine as a workstation, it defaults to identifying it as a server. This development follows the introduction of Defender for Linux servers in 2020. Organizations need a Microsoft Defender for Endpoint subscription and must meet Linux system requirements to use the software.

AppWizard

October 16, 2026

Malware Found Pre-Installed In Thousands Of Budget Android Phones – Here’s What We Know

A report from Bitdefender reveals a malware campaign named "Midnight Mimosa" affecting budget and midrange Android smartphones, particularly those using low-energy MediaTek chipsets. This malware, embedded in devices marketed under various labels like Cubot and Doogee, operates through an application called "System" (package name com.android.system.lite) that displays hidden ads and can allow hackers to control the devices. Thousands of devices have been tracked with this malware, with 13% of affected devices located in Mexico, 8% in the United States, and less than 3% in Canada. The malware's source traces back to Android ODM Shenzhen Zediel. Additionally, Bitdefender identified 13 other ad fraud-related apps signed by the same entity that were previously available on the Google Play Store. Major manufacturers like Google, Motorola, and Samsung have security protocols to protect their firmware, unlike the affected budget brands.

AppWizard

October 12, 2026

Steam Week in Review: The curious case of Wonder Boy in Monster Land’s dubious PC debut

Wonder Boy in Monster Land, originally released in Japanese arcades in 1987 and later on the Sega Master System, has been listed on Steam by Retro Maniac, a developer with a limited portfolio. The title is misspelled as "Wonderboy," raising concerns about the legitimacy of the release. The ownership of the Wonder Boy franchise is split between LAT Corp, which holds the intellectual property rights, and Sega, which retains the trademark. This dual ownership complicates any re-release under the Wonder Boy name, as seen with previous titles that successfully navigated licensing agreements. The original arcade version was released as Adventure Island in the U.S., leading to confusion about the game's lineage. Concerns about the Retro Maniac port were raised by the Wonder Boy Universe fan account and composer Shinichi Sakamoto, who noted it is not available in Japan and may be unauthorized. The port appears to be a ROM running within the MAME arcade emulator. The listing is reportedly facing a DMCA takedown process initiated by Sega or LAT Corp.

AppWizard

October 11, 2026

What’s the difference between Android Automotive and Google Built-In?

Car manufacturers are moving away from phone mirroring applications like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to adopt native infotainment systems, supported by Google's Android Automotive and Google Built-in software. General Motors (GM) has chosen Google Built-in since 2023, abandoning Android Auto. Google Built-in allows access to applications like Google Maps and the Google Play Store, and is used by sixteen automotive brands including Honda, Volvo, Chevy, Nissan, Ford, BYD, and Renault. Android Automotive is a customizable software solution for managing vehicle functions, while Google Built-in consists of licensed applications. Google is integrating advanced AI features, such as the Gemini chatbot, into its infotainment systems, enhancing capabilities like real-time traffic updates and voice-activated assistance. GM is also developing a proprietary AI assistant alongside integrating Gemini.

Winsage

October 5, 2026

Nvidia GTX Pascal-era GPUs are now running on Windows XP thanks to modders

Modder SupraGSX has created an unofficial Nvidia driver called ForceWare 382.69 for Windows XP, enabling compatibility with Nvidia's Pascal graphics cards, including the Titan Xp. This driver is based on Nvidia's GeForce 368.69 driver and is designed for 32-bit versions of Windows XP, allowing the use of modern graphics cards like the GTX 1080 Ti and Titan X. It also supports contemporary display standards such as DisplayPort 1.4 HBR3 and HDMI 2.0, with successful tests reported on high-refresh-rate monitors. The driver supports Direct3D 9 and OpenGL, but users have reported inconsistent performance and issues with certain functionalities. ForceWare 382.69 is available on GitHub, but installing unofficial drivers carries risks, especially for valuable hardware. Windows XP is not suitable for modern internet use and lacks support for contemporary software.

AppWizard

October 4, 2026

Is Minecraft Dungeons 2 cross platform? Crossplay and multiplayer explained

Minecraft Dungeons II was released on September 29, 2026, and features full cross-platform play across PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch, allowing up to four players to team up. Players can join sessions through matchmaking or by sharing a party code. To enable cross-platform play, players must sign into their accounts and toggle the setting in the game options. Crossplay allows players on different platforms to join the same session, while cross-progression enables saved character transfers between platforms. Xbox players need an active Game Pass subscription for online multiplayer, PlayStation users require PlayStation Plus, and PC players only need to own the game.

Winsage

October 3, 2026

Microsoft to roll out age verification system on Windows 11

Microsoft is introducing the Windows Age API to enhance user experience on Windows 11 by verifying age brackets without requiring users to disclose their exact birth dates. The API will categorize users into age ranges: under 10, 10-12, 13-15, 16-17, or 18 and over, and will indicate whether age status is verified or self-reported. Alongside this, Microsoft is launching the Microsoft Age Verification (MAV) system, allowing users to verify their age once through their Microsoft account, reducing the risk of oversharing personal data. This initiative responds to regulatory scrutiny and stricter global child protection laws requiring platforms to verify user ages. In late 2025, a US court approved a settlement between Disney and the FTC over unauthorized data collection from children under 13, highlighting the need for age assurance technology. In February 2026, the FTC issued guidance supporting age verification technology, stating it would not enforce actions against services collecting personal data for age verification if the data is deleted after processing. The Windows Age API is currently available to Windows Insider users, with plans for broader release, while the MAV system has been rolled out in regions like Singapore, Brazil, and Australia.

AppWizard

September 29, 2026

Tempest Rising has just launched an expansion that lets you play as the bad guys

Tempest Rising, developed by Slipgate Ironworks, is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that successfully revives the essence of 90's-style RTS games. Set in an alternate history post-World War III in 1997, players compete for control over a resource called Tempest. The game has received positive reviews, including an 85 score from PC Gamer. The recently released Veti's Wrath expansion introduces a new faction, the Veti, featuring an 11-mission campaign where players can transform fallen enemies into thralls for strategic advantages. The Veti cultivate Tempest through Refinement Altars and possess unique units like flying Caretakers and the Gorgon mech. Tempest Rising will be re-released as a Gold Edition on September 29, including both the base game and the expansion, with the Veti faction available as a free multiplayer option. The base game is currently available on Steam.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

One $32.97 purchase gets you Windows 11 Pro and the full Office suite for life

The bundle includes a Microsoft Office Pro license for permanent installation of applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access on a single PC, with Publisher support ending after October 2026. It also features Windows 11 Pro, which includes tools like BitLocker for data security, Remote Desktop for remote access, Hyper-V for running virtual machines, Snap Layouts for multitasking, and the Copilot feature for managing quick actions from the taskbar.

AppWizard

September 21, 2026

First 5-day Tokyo Game Show in 30 years cuts back to 4 in face of Typhoon Dujuan

The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) has canceled its final day due to the impending arrival of Typhoon No. 25, concluding the event after four days instead of the planned five. Ticket holders for September 21 will receive refunds. The decision was made to prioritize the safety of attendees amid expected strong winds and heavy rainfall. Typhoon Dujuan is forecasted to bring nearly 16 inches of rain to the Kanto region, leading to numerous flight cancellations by Nippon Airways and service suspensions on several East Japan Railway lines.