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Tested: Microsoft may finally end forced Windows 11 updates with a new pause feature that gives you full control
Winsage
April 13, 2026

Tested: Microsoft may finally end forced Windows 11 updates with a new pause feature that gives you full control

Microsoft is piloting a feature that allows users to select a specific date for pausing updates in Windows 11, moving away from the previous system that allowed pauses of up to five weeks. Users can access this feature through Settings > Windows Update, where they can choose to pause updates for a specific date using a calendar flyout. Currently, Windows 11 typically receives updates at least twice a month, with additional updates as needed. Users of Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise can defer updates for extended periods, potentially up to a year. The new pause controls are still in development, and while the upper limits for pause duration are unclear, there may be a cap similar to the Group Policy limit of one year. Microsoft is also working on streamlining the installation process for large updates and enhancing user control over third-party drivers.
Windows and Xbox rediscover user feedback and fans are wondering what took so long
Winsage
April 10, 2026

Windows and Xbox rediscover user feedback and fans are wondering what took so long

Microsoft has shifted its focus to better address user needs, revitalizing its Xbox Series X|S consoles and re-engaging with the gaming community through initiatives like the global Xbox FanFest. The company is also working to improve its relationship with Windows users by acknowledging past criticisms and planning to reinstate Windows Insider meetups and prioritize user-requested features. Despite these efforts, skepticism remains among observers of Microsoft's trajectory. Microsoft's relationship with OpenAI is complicated, with CEO Satya Nadella expressing concerns about backlash against AI integration. The company has invested over a billion dollars in OpenAI for exclusive access to AI models but may pursue legal action against OpenAI due to its collaborations with other tech giants. Microsoft's AI and cloud businesses are facing scrutiny from investors, with concerns about profitability and the sustainability of Azure operations. Nearly half of U.S. data centers planned for 2026 are at risk of cancellation, complicating Microsoft's AI ambitions. OpenAI's path to profitability is expected to be long, with projections suggesting it may not turn a profit until 2030. The competitive landscape, including rivals like Anthropic and alternatives from China, adds uncertainty. Legal challenges may arise from OpenAI's agreements with other companies, potentially affecting Microsoft's interests. Nadella's reference to "societal permission" indicates an awareness of Microsoft's public image, which has suffered. Xbox has faced community engagement issues, and Windows 11 has experienced public relations challenges and a decline in innovation. The costs associated with AI have been substantial, impacting Microsoft's reputation and consumer trust.
Windows Media Player’s ‘find album information’ functionality has been removed — you’ll have to find other software for playing and ripping CDs with relevant track information
Winsage
January 11, 2026

Windows Media Player’s ‘find album information’ functionality has been removed — you’ll have to find other software for playing and ripping CDs with relevant track information

Microsoft has removed the 'find album information' and 'update album info online' functionalities from the Media Player applications in Windows 11. Neither the Windows Media Player Legacy nor the latest Media Player app can connect to retrieve data such as album artwork, track names, and details when an audio CD is inserted. The built-in 'Find Album Information' service, which relies on musicmatch-ssl.xboxlive.com, is unreachable. Users attempting to update album information in the latest Media Player app receive an error message indicating a connection issue, despite having a stable internet connection. The removal of these features is disappointing for users who still appreciate physical media, especially as optical drives are becoming rare in new computers.
Great news: Yakuza Kiwami 3 will let you improve Kiryu's 'Daddy Rank'
AppWizard
November 29, 2025

Great news: Yakuza Kiwami 3 will let you improve Kiryu’s ‘Daddy Rank’

Yakuza Kiwami 3 will feature new elements such as minigames, a new market, and a feature called "Drink Links." A notable addition is "Daddy Rank," which allows players to explore Kazuma Kiryu's role as a caretaker at an orphanage, showcasing his character development. Kiryu will face housekeeping challenges and cook for the children, unlocking new stories. Players can engage in various minigames like sewing and bug-catching while managing the orphanage. The market will allow players to sell their creations. Additionally, the bonus game Dark Ties will involve navigating side-stories and influencing the character development of Tsuyoshi Kanda.
The story for Paradox's original, canned Bloodlines 2 has gone the way of the dodo, and its fired narrative lead says no one's spoken to him about it, but the good news is he's working on 2 games at once right now
AppWizard
October 15, 2025

The story for Paradox’s original, canned Bloodlines 2 has gone the way of the dodo, and its fired narrative lead says no one’s spoken to him about it, but the good news is he’s working on 2 games at once right now

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 was announced in 2019 by Paradox Interactive, featuring Brian Mitsoda as the original writer and narrative lead. In 2020, both Mitsoda and creative director Ka'ai Cluney were dismissed, and by 2021, Hardsuit Labs lost the project. In 2023, Paradox transferred the project to The Chinese Room, which led to a complete overhaul of the game. Mitsoda has had no communication with The Chinese Room or Paradox since his departure. Dan Pinchbeck from The Chinese Room stated that they would create a new narrative for Bloodlines 2, which Mitsoda interpreted as a reason for replacing his team's contributions. Mitsoda was responsible for designing quests, dialogue tools, and character development during the initial stages of the game, but he preferred the creative process over public relations roles. He is currently involved in a AAA project and an independent venture, hoping to return to game direction in the future.
Mob Entertainment Teams Up With Spark Universe to Bring Huggy Wuggy, Mommy Long Legs, and More Into Minecraft
AppWizard
October 14, 2025

Mob Entertainment Teams Up With Spark Universe to Bring Huggy Wuggy, Mommy Long Legs, and More Into Minecraft

Mob Entertainment has collaborated with Spark Universe to launch the Huggy & Friends Add-On for Minecraft, priced at 990 Minecoins. This add-on introduces characters from the horror franchise Poppy Playtime, including Huggy Wuggy, Mommy Long Legs, CatNap, Doey the Doughman, and The Doctor, each with unique behaviors that enhance gameplay. Players can earn GrabPack hands with abilities such as grappling and shocking by surviving encounters. Additionally, five Persona items inspired by Poppy Playtime characters are available as wearable cosmetics. The add-on and Persona items are now available for purchase in the Minecraft Marketplace.
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