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Microsoft's "Project Odeon" may turn Windows 11's Settings into a Microsoft Store app
Winsage
October 16, 2026

Microsoft’s “Project Odeon” may turn Windows 11’s Settings into a Microsoft Store app

Project Odeon transforms the Windows 11 Settings panel into a Microsoft Store app, allowing updates independent of Windows Update. It exists alongside the current Settings app and was discovered in a Windows 11 Insider branch. The initiative aims to accelerate the integration of Control Panel features into Settings without delaying Windows Update. Project Odeon does not replace the existing Settings app, enabling users to run both simultaneously. It is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to migrate Control Panel features into Settings and streamline the deployment of updates.
Soulbound Turns Minecraft Into A Deltarune-Style RPG
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Soulbound Turns Minecraft Into A Deltarune-Style RPG

Minecraft's combat mechanics have been considered monotonous, leading players to seek mods for a more dynamic experience. The mod Soulbound, launched by Pixelcite about seven months ago and recently updated to version 2.0, has gained popularity with 140,000 downloads on Modrinth. Soulbound transforms Minecraft into a turn-based RPG inspired by Undertale and Deltarune, allowing players to create characters with customizable stats and combat styles. The mod features original bullet-hell attack patterns and procedurally generated dark worlds that reflect themes from Deltarune. Soulbound was developed without the use of generative AI, as confirmed by moderators on its Discord server.
GLM's 23 Windows Bug Finds Are Z.ai Building a Security Research Resume
Winsage
October 14, 2026

GLM’s 23 Windows Bug Finds Are Z.ai Building a Security Research Resume

Z.ai's GLM model identified 23 vulnerabilities in the Windows operating system, confirmed by Microsoft's Security Response Center (MSRC). This marks a significant advancement in commercial software security, demonstrating the model's autonomous capability in independent vulnerability discovery. Since the release of GLM-5.2, Z.ai has uncovered over 4,200 vulnerabilities across about 390 open-source projects, with over a thousand categorized as critical to high severity. Z.ai has established a public Security Disclosure Ledger to track its findings through a coordinated disclosure process. The confirmation of vulnerabilities by MSRC is notable due to the rigorous nature of their vulnerability triage operations. Z.ai's GLM-5.3 achieved a score of 84.5% on CyberGym, outperforming competitors like Anthropic's Mythos 5 and OpenAI's GPT-5.6 Sol. Reports indicate that NIST's AI safety division has flagged GLM-5.3 due to concerns about its cyber capabilities, particularly regarding the potential for modified versions to reduce safety features. Z.ai plans to continue targeting commercial software in its efforts.
YouTube bringing automatic background play to Android Automotive cars
AppWizard
October 14, 2026

YouTube bringing automatic background play to Android Automotive cars

Google is enhancing the Android Automotive experience with app updates under the “Google built-in” initiative, introducing more video applications and allowing YouTube to operate in the background for Premium subscribers. Over the next few weeks, vehicles with Android Automotive will see a redesigned Play Store tailored for various display sizes and improved app discoverability, with over 700 applications currently available. New apps like STARZ, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar are expected to launch soon. Background play for YouTube allows drivers to enjoy video content while parked and switch to audio playback while driving. Although initially announced for 2025, this is the first direct mention of the feature for YouTube. Android Auto is also anticipated to support video applications and background play capabilities in the future.
"Begun, the clone wars have" — Microsoft 365 apps have been copied by the AI dev who cloned the Adobe suite
Winsage
October 13, 2026

“Begun, the clone wars have” — Microsoft 365 apps have been copied by the AI dev who cloned the Adobe suite

Developer Brandon Thomas is creating open-source alternatives to Microsoft’s applications—Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—using artificial intelligence. His suite includes GridCraft (Excel clone), DeckCraft (PowerPoint clone), and WordCraft (Word clone), all powered by the Claude AI model and available for free download on the ArtCraft GitHub page. These applications mimic the functionality and design of Microsoft 365, challenging the necessity of expensive subscriptions for productivity tools. Thomas has previously replicated the Adobe suite and aims to provide competitive alternatives to established software giants.
Microsoft Warns About Windows Update Certificate Expiration
Winsage
October 12, 2026

Microsoft Warns About Windows Update Certificate Expiration

Microsoft has reminded IT administrators about the expiration of certificates that enable trusted connections between Windows devices and Windows Update servers, set to expire in May and June of 2027. Devices without replacement certificates by these deadlines may lose access to Windows Update services. Most supported Windows devices will receive new certificates automatically through security updates, but older or infrequently updated systems may require manual intervention. Organizations that do not update their devices risk losing access to critical updates, particularly unsupported Windows versions that will not receive necessary certificate updates. IT teams should audit device inventories and ensure compliance with updates, as systems on supported versions will obtain replacement certificates seamlessly. Upgrading unsupported systems is essential, and organizations are encouraged to conduct audits and expedite upgrade projects to avoid losing access to Windows Update.
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