platform release Archives

Winsage

November 7, 2025

Windows 11 version 26H1: Everything we know so far about Microsoft’s next OS release in 2026

Microsoft is preparing to release a new version of Windows 11, diverging from the traditional update schedule. This upcoming version, codenamed Bromine, will support the Qualcomm Snapdragon X2-based system-on-chip and NVIDIA N1X platform, which require significant modifications not compatible with the current version 25H2. The new version 24H2, also known as Germanium, will utilize enhancements from the Bromine platform and will initially be available only for devices powered by the Snapdragon X2 chipset at launch.

BetaBeacon

October 31, 2025

Android 14 Easter Egg Launches Space Game

- Any phone or tablet that has been updated to Android 14 can access the new Easter egg, which is a space game that works offline and does not require special permissions.

AppWizard

October 27, 2025

AppContext To Keep Apps Alive In Android

Google is set to enhance tablet multitasking in the upcoming Android Q release by introducing a new gesture that allows users to create a compact floating "bubble" window for any app. This feature will enable users to drag an app icon from the taskbar to the screen's bottom corners, facilitating a more seamless app-switching experience. The floating windows will allow various applications, such as browsers and note-taking tools, to float above the main workspace, enabling users to engage with multiple applications simultaneously, particularly on larger devices. This enhancement aims to improve the user experience on Android tablets and foldable devices by providing a more intuitive multitasking environment. The feature will utilize the Bubbles API and is expected to be rolled out for user testing as part of Google's quarterly platform release schedule.

AppWizard

October 25, 2025

Halo: Campaign Evolved Announced for Xbox, PC, and Yes, PS5 – Here’s Everything We Know So Far, Including New Missions

Halo: Campaign Evolved is a remake of the 2001 game Halo: Combat Evolved, developed using Unreal Engine 5, and is set to release in 2026. It will be available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, with a potential launch date around November 16, 2026, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the original game. The remake focuses on the campaign, featuring co-op mode for two players in split-screen or up to four players online with cross-play functionality. Traditional multiplayer modes will not be included. The game will introduce new single-player content, including a three-mission prequel arc, and will feature gameplay enhancements such as destructible vehicles, weapon mechanics, and updated level design. All cinematics will be reimagined with new motion capture and voice recordings. Additionally, the game will include a variety of Skulls, which are gameplay modifiers, promising the most ever in a Halo campaign. Pricing details have not been disclosed.

AppWizard

September 29, 2025

Pixel QPR Beta issue breaks key native, default Android app

Google has released Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1, concluding the September Quarterly Platform Release (QPR). Pixel users can revert to the stable version without a software wipe, but some did not receive the stable update. Users on Android 16 QPR1 Beta 3.1 are facing issues with Google Wallet and VPN functionalities. Complaints are particularly noted among Pixel 9 series users. QPR updates are quarterly updates for Pixel devices, and the following devices are set to receive Pixel Feature Drops this year: Pixel 10 series, Pixel 9 series, Pixel 8 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, and Pixel 7 series. QPR2 is expected in December, and QPR3 in March 2026. Android 16 was introduced in June, with Android 17 expected next June.

AppWizard

September 20, 2025

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter has a great PC port, but it is a small step back from PH3 releases

GungHo and Falcom have released Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter worldwide, marking Falcom's first multi-platform release globally and its first internal PC port in several years. The PC version includes various display settings, such as fullscreen and windowed modes, resolutions from 320x200 to 4K, and support for different aspect ratios. Graphics options allow players to adjust draw distance, level of detail, light and shadow maps, and more. New features include a "resume from latest save" option. However, some features from previous Trails games are missing, such as arbitrary resolution support and comprehensive ultrawide support. Recommended settings for the Steam Deck target 45fps, while the ROG Ally can achieve a locked 60fps with specific adjustments. Despite its strengths, the port reflects some shortcomings compared to earlier releases.

AppWizard

September 18, 2025

Pixel users can customize their app icons with the latest Android 16 QPR2 Beta release

Google has released the Android 16 QPR2 Beta 2, which includes the September 5, 2025 security patch. Eligible devices for this update are Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and Pixel Tablet. The update introduces Themed icon shapes with five options: Circle, Square, Four-sided "cookie," Seven-sided "cookie," and Arch. The Display & touch settings have been redesigned, and Health Connect now automatically tracks steps. The update has achieved Platform Stability, allowing developers to test apps without unexpected changes. It has the build number BP41.250822.010. Starting September 2026, verified developer registration will be required for app installations on certified Android devices in select regions.

Winsage

September 11, 2025

Microsoft releases official ISOs for Windows 11 version 25H2 after short delay — upgrade to the next release now

Microsoft has released the ISO media for Windows 11 version 25H2, indicating that the update will soon be generally available. Users can download the ISOs from the Windows Insider Program website, and they are considered production-ready for installation on non-Insider PCs. The release was postponed from an earlier planned date without specified reasons. Version 25H2 has been tested with Insiders since June and will soon be distributed via Windows Update. It does not introduce new features beyond version 24H2, as both versions share the same platform release and will receive updates together. However, version 25H2 resets the support timeline, offering 24 months of support for Home and Pro editions and 36 months for Enterprise and Education editions. The update will be delivered through an enablement package for version 24H2, requiring minimal time for download and installation. Users can download the ISO immediately by selecting the appropriate option from the dropdown menu on the Windows Insider Program website. The ISO can be used for in-place upgrades or to create bootable USB media for fresh installations. The link for the ISO will be valid for 24 hours.

Winsage

September 1, 2025

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 version 25H2 will have no new features — it actually removes some, and will be available soon

Microsoft has begun testing Windows 11 version 25H2 in the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel, indicating it is nearing public release. This version will not introduce new features and will maintain feature parity with version 24H2. The installation process for version 25H2 will be streamlined, requiring only a single restart and promising a faster download experience. Compatibility will remain intact, ensuring all applications and games will function seamlessly after the upgrade. General availability of version 25H2 is expected in late September or early October. Users can opt to install it through the Windows Insider Release Preview Channel, but it will not be automatically downloaded for those on version 24H2. Instead, it will appear as an optional update until version 24H2 reaches the end of its support lifecycle, after which it will be automatically installed.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Windows 10 is 10 years old today — let’s look back at 10 controversial and defining moments in its history

On July 29, 2015, Microsoft unveiled Windows 10, integrating the live tile interface with the classic Start menu and focusing on the desktop experience. It was developed with public collaboration through the Windows Insider Program. Microsoft offered a free upgrade to Windows 7 and 8 users for one year, which was later extended until 2023, resulting in 100 million devices running Windows 10 within two months of its launch. The "Get Windows 10" app aggressively promoted the upgrade, leading to user backlash and its eventual removal. Windows 10 faced criticism for extensive data collection practices, with no option for complete telemetry disablement. It introduced "Windows as a Service" with a biannual update schedule, though it faced issues, including data loss in the October 2018 Update. The OneCore project aimed to create a universal Windows core for various devices but ultimately faltered. The dark mode feature had inconsistencies, and Windows 10 Mobile struggled in the smartphone market, leading to its discontinuation in 2017. The Universal Windows Platform (UWP) faced adoption challenges, and the Fluent Design System delivered minimal updates. The My People feature was disabled by default due to poor adoption rates. Windows 10 played a crucial role in shaping the current Windows landscape and laid the groundwork for future developments.