rebranding Archives

Winsage

September 24, 2026

Microsoft tried to ban “Microslop,” and six months later it has given up

Microsoft has lifted its ban on the term "Microslop" in its official Copilot Discord server, which was initially blocked due to its use as a critical nickname for the company in response to its AI features. The term gained popularity around late 2025, leading to significant user frustration and the development of a browser extension to replace "Microsoft" with "Microslop." By March 2026, messages containing the term were being filtered in the Discord, prompting users to find ways around the restrictions. Microsoft later clarified that the filtering was a temporary anti-spam measure. Discontent with Copilot had been growing prior to this, with backlash against Windows chief Pavan Davuluri's comments about AI integration. In March, Davuluri announced a more intentional integration of Copilot, leading to changes such as the removal of the Copilot button from the Snipping Tool and the rebranding of features in Notepad. Microsoft also ceased the auto-installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app and promised a less cluttered user interface. The Copilot key has become customizable, although some users are frustrated by changes to the Copilot logo. Despite improvements, user backlash persists, with some expressing a desire for the "old Copilot." Microsoft is shifting from overt branding of AI features to a more integrated approach in user experience.

AppWizard

September 22, 2026

Googlebook OS: Goodbye Windows? Google’s New OS Brings Android and AI to Laptops

Google has announced its new operating system, Googlebook OS, previously known as Aluminium OS, alongside the launch of the Googlebook laptop series. Googlebook OS allows Android applications to run natively, enhancing performance compared to ChromeOS. It features "Continue On," which enables task transfer from mobile apps to the laptop, and incorporates AI tools like "Magic Pointer" for assistant access and "Rambler" for improved voice input. Users can also create personalized widgets with the "Create My Widget" option. Googlebook OS is positioned as a distinct product with advanced capabilities, although future commercial device details are not yet available.

Winsage

September 21, 2026

Microsoft remembers Mixed Reality exists, adds basic features I bet you thought were already here

A recent update to Mixed Reality Link has improved the user experience for utilizing a virtual reality headset as a monitor for Windows 11 PCs. The update, version 26.9105.9070.0, allows direct access to the headset's microphone and cameras within the Windows environment. Mixed Reality Link enables the connection of up to three virtual monitors on compatible headsets, such as the Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S, supporting both wired and wireless connections. Previous versions required users to connect an external microphone, but the latest update integrates the headset's built-in microphone and camera with Windows applications.

AppWizard

September 15, 2026

Wardogs players are actively avoiding one team in particular: ‘They are literally the dumbest people on the planet’

Players in the game Wardogs exhibit a strong aversion to the Blue faction, Lonestar, often chanting “Anything but blue” during team selection. This sentiment is reflected in community discussions, with humorous posts highlighting Lonestar's sparse player roster and rebranding factions based on difficulty levels. Anecdotal evidence suggests that players actively avoid joining Blue, resulting in delays for matches to start. In matches played as Lonestar, players report overwhelming defeats, with opposing teams quickly establishing fortified positions. Theories explaining Lonestar's negative reputation include its conspicuous blue attire, a strategic disadvantage due to its starting position, and a self-fulfilling prophecy where negative experiences lead to fewer players choosing Blue.

Tech Optimizer

September 4, 2026

NordVPN’s Next-Gen Antivirus scores 94% in independent phishing and malware testing

NordVPN's next-generation antivirus achieved a 94% phishing detection rate in an anti-phishing test by AV-Comparatives, ranking third among nine products, behind Avast One Free Antivirus and Norton Antivirus Plus, both at 96%. The evaluation tested 250 live phishing URLs and recorded zero false positives for NordVPN, unlike competitors such as Malwarebytes Premium and Webroot SecureAnywhere. The two-percentage-point difference between NordVPN and the leaders corresponds to five URLs. Other products like Dr. Web Security Space and K7 Total Security had lower detection rates of 57% and 70%, respectively. Previously, NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro had an 83.42% detection rate across 3,209 links, outperforming IPVanish. In June 2024, NordVPN became the first VPN provider to earn AV-Comparatives' anti-phishing protection badge, requiring a minimum detection rate of 85% with zero false alarms. The antivirus feature is available on Plus plans and higher, previously known as Threat Protection Pro, and is included in Plus, Complete, and Prime tiers.

AppWizard

August 17, 2026

Beastfolk Barber is an adorable hairdressing sim that offers up more than just shop talk

Players assume the role of Freddie, a hair salon owner in Starfish City, where beastfolk are the primary clientele. To cater to this demographic, Freddie uses a magical mirror that allows customers to preview hairstyles. Each client shares personal stories, including a two-headed dragon duo advocating for social justice and a grumpy owl with a mysterious background. A demonic character named Edi offers a magical favor in exchange for a haircut, adding strategic elements to the gameplay. The demo has ended, but players anticipate a full release, focusing on Freddie's growth and community engagement in hairstyling and storytelling.

BetaBeacon

August 14, 2026

DS Emulator MelonDualDS Just Got A Rebrand & A Lighter Sibling “For Android Handhelds With Limited Performance”

Recent developments in the DS emulation space include a significant update to the melonDualDS emulator, which has been rebranded to WatermelonDS. The new version features a revamped user interface, RetroArch shader presets, and an experimental Vulkan FastPath. Additionally, a lighter alternative called Seedless has been introduced, based on the DraStic r2.6.0.4a core and designed for modern Android handhelds with physical controls and dual-screen functionality. Sapphire Rhodonite, the developer, also plans to release a Linux version of Seedless in the future.

Winsage

August 5, 2026

Here’s when Windows 11 26H2 will roll out, and what’s actually new on existing PCs

Windows 11 26H2 is expected to be released in October 2026 as an enablement package, primarily serving as a servicing update to enhance stability for enterprise users rather than introducing significant new features. The support for Windows 11 24H2 will end on October 13, 2026, while 25H2 will be supported until October 12, 2027. Windows 11 26H2 will integrate into the existing servicing model of 24H2 and 25H2, allowing users to upgrade quickly with a small update size of 174KB. The system requirements for 26H2 will remain the same as its predecessors. New features include the rebranding of Windows Backup to "Windows settings backup and restore," which will automatically back up user settings and select personal files to the cloud by default. Another feature, Point-in-time restore, will be enabled by default for 26H2 users, allowing the creation of system restore points. This update aims to provide a consistent user experience and enhance business continuity without being a full operating system upgrade.

BetaBeacon

August 3, 2026

Gemini Notebook may soon let you build custom learning games out of your study material

Google's Gemini Notebook, previously known as NotebookLM, is being enhanced with new features to improve the learning experience. Users may soon be able to create interactive web pages, custom apps, or games within the notebook. Google is also testing the option to remove watermarks from media generated within the notebooks.

Winsage

August 1, 2026

Windows 10 users were right: Microsoft admits its end of support was the real Windows 11 sales driver

Microsoft has reported a significant revenue of billion in its fiscal fourth-quarter report for 2026, exceeding Wall Street predictions, despite a 7% decline in Windows OEM and Devices revenue and a 5% drop in Windows OEM revenue. The company has extended support for Windows 10 until October 2027, acknowledging that many users are not ready to upgrade to Windows 11. Approximately 30% of HP's installed base remains on Windows 10, which HP views as an opportunity for growth. Dell has shifted its focus away from AI PCs to gaming and hardware quality due to the limitations of the AI PC narrative. Microsoft is facing challenges with sluggish Windows 11 adoption rates and is focusing on enhancing the platform's core functionalities.