progress Archives

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2025

How we loaded a petabyte into PostgreSQL before New Year — and what happened next

A team decided to test PostgreSQL's capabilities with a one-petabyte database, setting a challenge for December 10, with a report due by January 20. They initially sought cloud storage but found no provider could meet their requirement for a single chunk of storage, leading them to rent physical servers. They used Shardman, a distributed database engine, to manage the database across seven servers. They employed the YCSB benchmark for performance testing and faced various challenges, including data loading issues and hardware problems. By January 15, they reached 863 terabytes of data generation, falling short of their petabyte goal, and documented their findings for future reference.

AppWizard

August 24, 2025

Rockstar Making a Change to GTA 4 PC Version

Grand Theft Auto 4 will stop automatic save migration from Games for Windows - Live to the Rockstar Games Launcher, transitioning in two phases. Players will still be able to manually migrate their save data after the automatic process ends. The game was reintroduced on Steam in 2020, removing the defunct Games for Windows - Live service, and a background scanner was implemented to help import legacy save files. Players have been able to use automatic migration or manually initiate it through the launcher's settings.

AppWizard

August 24, 2025

Epic Games is giving away two fun PC games for free! Have you picked them up yet?

The Epic Games Store is offering free PC games this week, including Kamaeru and Strange Horticulture, with the giveaway ending next Thursday at 16:59 PM. Kamaeru is a game focused on protecting wetlands and frogs, featuring hand-painted graphics and a calming atmosphere. Strange Horticulture is a logic adventure game set in a mysterious town, where players manage a flower shop with magical plants, requiring careful exploration and decision-making.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

7 Open Source Android Apps Every User NEEDS

Open source Android applications prioritize transparency, privacy, and functionality, distinguishing themselves from mainstream apps by offering user control, lightweight performance, and an ad-free experience. Seven essential open source apps are highlighted: 1. Permission Summary: Provides a categorized overview of app permissions, focusing on third-party applications, and operates offline to enhance privacy. 2. Lock Lock: An app locker with anti-uninstall and brute force protection, functioning offline to secure sensitive data. 3. AppLock: Combines biometric authentication and PIN protection with real-time background protection for locked apps. 4. Orientation Lock: Allows users to lock their screen orientation to a preferred mode, featuring a minimalist design and ad-free interface. 5. Yet Another Habit Tracker: Aids users in building habits with features like heat maps and customizable colors to maintain motivation. 6. Create: An offline music player that supports playlist management and customizable themes, focusing on user privacy. 7. Record Equalizer: Offers real-time audio processing tools for recording and sound manipulation, suitable for both casual users and professionals. These applications provide efficient alternatives to traditional apps while enhancing user privacy and control.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Minecraft Creative vs Survival

Minecraft features two primary modes: Creative and Survival. In Creative mode, players are invulnerable and can focus on building and experimenting without danger. This mode is ideal for familiarizing oneself with the game’s features. Survival mode presents a challenging experience where players engage in an endgame quest to defeat the Ender Dragon and must manage resources to thrive. Additionally, there are other gameplay options: Hardcore mode, where players have only one life and lose all progress upon death; Spectator mode, which allows exploration without interaction; and Adventure mode, focused on player-created maps with restrictions on damaging the environment.

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Windows Dark Mode finally gets dark dialog boxes

Microsoft's latest Preview build of Windows 11, version 26100.5061, has unified the dark theme by updating dialog boxes for file copying and deletion to match the dark aesthetic. However, some elements, such as buttons and certain dialogs in File Explorer, still reflect the older light theme. This update is being tested in Preview channels, with a broader rollout expected in the Windows 11 25H2 update in the latter half of 2025. Additionally, the upcoming July release will feature a redesigned black blue screen of death (BSOD), replacing the traditional blue background and sad smiley face with a black design that displays the relevant error code and driver name.

AppWizard

August 20, 2025

Google’s new AI health coach is coming to Fitbit and Pixel Watches next month

Google has introduced an AI-powered personal health coach for Pixel Watch and Fitbit devices, which acts as a fitness trainer, sleep coach, and wellness advisor. It personalizes recommendations based on individual goals, recovery needs, and activity levels. A revamped Fitbit app featuring AI capabilities will be rolled out, initially available as a preview for Fitbit Premium users. The AI health coach utilizes Google Gemini to tailor its suggestions and will adapt to users' habits and health over time. It is compatible with data from Health Connect and HealthKit. The feature is set to launch for Fitbit Premium users in the U.S. next month, with early access sign-up available now.

AppWizard

August 20, 2025

Cult of the Lamb has revealed a huge DLC coming next year, finally letting us explore the towering mountain from the back of the map which has been bugging me since launch

Woolhaven is the fifth paid DLC for Cult of the Lamb, set to release in early 2026. It will expand the narrative by allowing players to ascend a mountain at the request of the "forgotten God of the lambs." The DLC will feature new adversaries, including a colossal beast for an epic boss battle, and introduce two new dungeons with fresh enemies. Players will face environmental challenges like blizzards and freezing temperatures, leading to potential frostbite and famine among followers. New structures will be added to help ensure their survival. Additionally, ranching will be introduced, allowing players to bring back animals for warmth, wool, or sustenance.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Microsoft’s Bad News—Most Windows Users Must Now Upgrade

Over half of all Windows users may need to consider upgrading their PCs due to increasing security threats in the digital landscape. In July, Windows 11 surpassed Windows 10 in market share, capturing over 54% of users, while Windows 10 held 43%. However, Microsoft granted a 12-month extension for Windows 10 users, dampening enthusiasm for migrating to Windows 11. By August 20, Windows 10 rebounded to 47%, and Windows 11 slipped to 49%. The end of security updates for Windows 10 is set for October 14, raising concerns about user reluctance to transition to Windows 11 despite its security advantages.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Windows 11’s dark mode remains a work in progress for Microsoft

Microsoft is actively working on improving the dark mode feature in Windows 11, which was initially introduced in Windows 10 but remains incomplete. Recent findings by developer PhantomOfEarth indicate that file operation dialogs are being updated to support dark mode in build 26100.5061. While these changes are still in progress, they represent a step toward a more cohesive dark mode experience. The implementation of system-wide changes is complex, involving considerations like icon visibility and accessibility standards. Although updates are currently hidden in a preview build, users can expect gradual improvements rather than immediate, sweeping changes.