preparation Archives

Winsage

October 1, 2026

Windows 10 Users Face a $30 Choice as Microsoft Quietly Extends Security Support to 2027

Microsoft has extended the support cutoff for Windows 10 from October 13, 2026, to October 12, 2027, due to a one-year extension of the consumer security program. Devices enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will continue to receive updates automatically. Unenrolled devices can still enroll until October 12, 2027, to receive critical updates released since their support ended on October 14, 2025. Users in the European Economic Area can access ESU at no extra cost but must maintain a Microsoft account to avoid losing access to updates after 60 days. To qualify for ESU, devices must run Windows 10 version 22H2 in supported editions, have the latest updates, and meet specific criteria. Microsoft 365 Apps and OneDrive on Windows 10 will receive updates beyond ESU, but the operating system itself remains unprotected without ESU. As of August 2026, 25.15 percent of Windows desktops in Germany were still using Windows 10. Users can check their ESU status under Settings, Update & Security, Windows Update.

BetaBeacon

September 30, 2026

You can now turn your Android handheld into a Steam Deck, and here’s the proof

Valve has released Steam OS for Arm devices, which has been ported to Android handhelds by developers. The Arm version of Steam OS can run from a microSD card on supported devices like the AYN Odin 2 family and Retroid Pocket 6. The performance of games on Steam OS Arm varies, with some games working well and others not booting up at all. While there are other apps available for playing Steam games on Android, the release of Steam OS for Arm devices is a significant development in preparation for a potential Arm-powered Steam Deck in the future.

Winsage

September 28, 2026

A Windows 10 Update Was Force Triggering Copilot To Run Every Time A File Was Clicked, Leading To Frequent Crashes That Logged The Culprit As Microsoft Edge

Microsoft's Windows 10 update "KB5126256," intended as a licensing preparation package for Extended Security Updates, has caused issues for users, including one Reddit user whose File Explorer crashes when clicking on files due to the automatic activation of the Copilot feature. The crashes were misleadingly attributed to Microsoft Edge, but further investigation revealed they were linked to "mscopilot_proxy.exe" and the module "ShellEh6055x64.dll," associated with the 4t Tray Minimizer application. Users have reported that uninstalling problematic updates can provide temporary relief, while some have chosen to disable updates entirely, despite Windows not offering a complete option to do so.

AppWizard

September 21, 2026

Ahead of GTA 6’s Release, Rockstar Updates Modding Guidelines Touching on Monetization, Multiplayer

Take-Two Interactive has not confirmed the release date for Grand Theft Auto 6 on PC, but the game is anticipated to launch in November. Rockstar Games has updated its modding guidelines for GTA 6, which include prohibitions on altering storylines, combining elements from different titles, and unauthorized monetization of mods. The guidelines emphasize respect for Rockstar's intellectual property and the creator community, and they state that monetization is only allowed through approved digital storefronts. The game is set to launch on November 19 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with the PC version's release date still unannounced. Additionally, Rockstar will release "Grand Theft Auto 6: The Album," featuring 34 original tracks from contemporary artists.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

How to Convert a Website or AI-Built Web App into a Play Store-Ready Android App in 2026

Native App AI simplifies the process of converting websites or AI-generated web apps into Android applications ready for the Play Store without needing to rebuild from scratch. It allows users to input a website URL, customize the app's features, and generate APK and AAB files for testing and publishing. The platform supports various features such as push notifications, AdMob monetization, deep linking, and custom branding. It also assists in preparing necessary information for Google Play, ensuring compliance with policies and technical requirements. This service is beneficial for SaaS companies, startups, e-commerce ventures, and creators who have existing web products.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Android Auto Can Still Be Useful Without Cell Service

Android Auto can function without a mobile data connection, allowing access to features like maps and podcasts in areas with limited or no cell service. Users can download offline maps through the Google Maps app by selecting Offline maps and choosing the desired area. Alternatives like Organic Maps provide offline navigation, while apps such as iHeartRadio, Musicolet, Spotify, and YouTube Music allow for downloading content for offline use. With proper planning and the right tools, Android Auto remains effective even in remote locations.

Winsage

September 13, 2026

NVIDIA CUDA 13.4 Adds Windows on Arm Support [2026]

NVIDIA released CUDA Toolkit 13.4 on September 9, 2026, introducing native CUDA support for Windows on Arm. This update allows developers to compile and run CUDA applications on Windows Arm64 systems, closing a gap that existed since CUDA's inception in 2007. The toolkit offers two workflows: native compilation on Windows Arm64 machines and cross-compilation from x86-64 systems. Developers must install an R616-series Developer Driver to utilize the new features. The release aligns with the upcoming launch of NVIDIA's RTX Spark laptops, built on the N1X Arm platform. The toolkit is designed for RTX Spark devices, which leverage NVIDIA’s Blackwell GPU architecture. Current Windows on Arm devices can also begin using the toolkit in preparation for the hardware launch. The initial feature set for Windows Arm64 is narrower compared to x86-64, but developers are encouraged to adapt their applications for the new environment.

AppWizard

August 31, 2026

Game review: Star Wars Zero Company (PC)

Star Wars Zero Company is a turn-based strategy game set during the waning days of the Clone Wars, where players lead a mercenary unit called Zero Company, led by former Republic officer Tesh Hawks. The game features tactical gameplay reminiscent of the X-COM series, with players managing a squad and engaging in combat missions while also exploring an upgradeable hub called The Den. Players can choose between Operations and Tactical Missions, with character customization options available for generic recruits. The game includes a variety of missions and enemies from the Star Wars universe, including a notable antagonist, The Coil. It features a permadeath system, strategic gameplay that emphasizes positioning and cover, and a soundtrack inspired by the franchise. The game is developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm, EA Games, and Bit Reactor.

Winsage

August 29, 2026

I finally found out what Windows does during “Getting things ready” — and I’m no longer annoyed

Windows Patch Tuesdays often lead to uncertainty for users due to the "Getting things ready" screen, which lacks a percentage bar or estimated time of completion. During this time, Windows is performing complex tasks managed by the Update Orchestrator, which assesses applicable components of updates, prepares necessary files, and stages them for installation. The servicing stack, including Component-Based Servicing (CBS), ensures that only relevant parts of an update are applied at the component level. The update process involves checks, package handling, staging, installation, and finalization, influenced by each PC's unique configuration, installed components, optional features, and drivers. The variability in wait times is due to these factors, and while Microsoft does not provide precise completion times, clearer messaging about the current task could improve user experience. The lack of information can create confusion between necessary updates and a system that appears stuck.

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2026

How to Protect Against Ransomware: 13 Steps [2026]

Global ransomware attacks increased by 0.8% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2026. The group Qilin has 279 confirmed victims, maintaining its position as the leading threat actor for four consecutive quarters. The rival group The Gentlemen saw a 62% increase in victims, reaching 269. Checkpoint Research's report indicates a shift in the ransomware landscape, challenging the narrative of declining attacks. IBM's analysis shows breaches within supply chains and third-party vendors have quadrupled over the past five years. Effective ransomware protection requires administrative access to endpoints, firewalls, and backup systems, along with specific software versions and tools. The 3-2-1-1-0 backup strategy is recommended, emphasizing offline, immutable backups. Organizations should implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all access points and actively patch known vulnerabilities. Network segmentation is crucial to limit ransomware spread, and canary files can provide early warnings of attacks. Regular phishing simulations and a well-documented incident response plan are essential for preparedness.