relaunch Archives

Winsage

January 9, 2026

Is turning off Windows Security a bad idea in 2026? A PC expert’s bottom line

Windows Security is a comprehensive security suite for Windows users that monitors downloads, blocks threats, and quarantines malware. Users may need to disable it temporarily to install third-party software or games that are mistakenly flagged as threats. Permanent deactivation is typically for advanced users who may replace it with another security suite, but it increases vulnerability to online threats. To temporarily disable Windows Security, users can toggle off Real-time protection in the Windows Security app. For permanent deactivation, Windows 11 Pro users can use the Local Group Policy Editor, while Home users must edit the Registry. Creating a restore point before making changes is recommended for safety. Disabling Windows Security, even temporarily, should be done with caution to avoid increased risk of infections.

AppWizard

January 9, 2026

Steam Workshop just got version control, hopefully making it less of a headache when game updates break all our mods

A significant update for a popular game has disrupted the ecosystem of mods and saved games. Valve has introduced new version control options for Steam Workshop to help players select compatible mod and game versions more easily. These options include new Steam APIs that allow developers to define past game versions and enable mod authors to specify compatibility with specific game versions. The new features can automatically manage version mismatches, allowing Steam to close the game, switch to the appropriate version, and relaunch it if a player attempts to use an incompatible mod. This requires cooperation from developers and mod authors to implement the necessary configurations.

AppWizard

January 7, 2026

“Steam charts don’t measure fun,” says Splitgate dev as relaunched FPS debuts with a 90% lower peak

Splitgate 2, the sequel to a competitive first-person shooter, peaked at approximately 25,000 players on Steam upon its initial release but saw a rapid decline in interest, leading 1047 Games to revert it to a beta state and relaunch it as Splitgate Arena Reloaded. On launch day, the revamped game peaked at only 2,297 players, a 90% drop from its predecessor, and currently has daily concurrent player counts between 900 and 1,000. 1047 Games stated, "Steam charts don't measure fun," emphasizing that player statistics do not fully capture the gaming experience. Despite the low player count, the studio remains committed to the game and its community, encouraging players to try the free-to-play version, which features engaging gameplay elements like impressive maps and portal mechanics.

AppWizard

January 7, 2026

Windows 11’s “almost full-screen” Android apps mirroring now available for everyone via Phone Link app with supported phones

Users can utilize the "Expanded screen" feature in the Microsoft Phone Link app, allowing up to 90% of desktop screen space to be used when streaming Android applications to Windows 11. This feature is available to all users and may require updates from the Microsoft Store for those who do not see it yet. The Phone Link app previously had a compact view for Android app streaming, but now allows apps to stretch across the desktop. The feature prompts the phone to relaunch the app in a wider layout, which is then streamed to the PC, though not all apps are compatible with this expanded view. The feature is described as "almost-full-screen," leaving about 10% of the screen unused. The "Apps" section in Phone Link may be absent if the device is not supported; compatible devices include select models from Samsung, HONOR, OPPO, ASUS, vivo, and Xiaomi. Microsoft has also introduced the ability to lock PCs directly from Android phones.

Winsage

December 31, 2025

New Samsung Internet update for Windows brings two improvements

Samsung has released an update for the Samsung Internet app on Windows, now at version 29.0.0.146. The update includes enhanced homepage shortcut icons for smoother navigation and improved visibility of text in the search bar on the home page. Users can check for updates by opening the browser, accessing the settings through the hamburger menu, and selecting "About Samsung Internet." If a new version is available, it will download automatically. Additionally, Google is updating Chrome on Android to include a 'Show Reading mode' option, although users find Samsung Internet's reading mode more user-friendly.

AppWizard

December 18, 2025

Best PC Games to Play During the Holidays

The winter holiday break offers PC gamers a chance to enjoy various games, whether solo or with others. Cooperative games for two players include Split Fiction, where players navigate dual worlds, Henry Halfhead, which features a puzzle-solving character, and LEGO Voyagers, which uses LEGO bricks for teamwork. Family-oriented games like Popucom, LEGO Fortnite Odyssey, and Nicktoons & The Dice of Destiny emphasize accessible mechanics and cooperative play. For local multiplayer competition, EA SPORTS FC 26, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, and Mortal Kombat 1 are popular choices. Online co-op games such as Satisfactory, Out of Time, and PowerWash Simulator 2 allow players to connect remotely. Free-to-play options include Where Winds Meet, skate., and Infinity Nikki, which provide engaging experiences without cost. Immersive games like Escape from Duckov, Promise Mascot Agency, and Football Manager 26 offer deep gameplay experiences.

BetaBeacon

December 9, 2025

Starbucks for Life not working? Here’s how to fix the game on iPhone, Android & web

- Many players were able to access the game only after installing the latest Starbucks app update. - If the Starbucks for Life Merrython banner does not appear, users can try logging out and back into their account, using private or incognito mode on their browser, switching devices, or clearing their browser cache. - If the Starbucks for Life banner is not showing in the app, users can try force closing the app, restarting their phone, scrolling the homepage, and checking under Rewards or Messages. - If the game loads but won't save points or progress, it is a server-side glitch with no user fix. - If the game works once and then breaks again, it is a sign that Starbucks is applying live patches causing instability. - Users should stop troubleshooting if they see errors such as "Site down for maintenance," blank white screen, game disappearing after loading, login loop on every device, or prize screen looping to the homepage, as these confirm a platform-wide issue.

AppWizard

December 6, 2025

Splitgate 2 returns with a new name, no heroes, and a focus on capturing the arena FPS magic of Quake and Halo

Splitgate 2 was reverted to a beta state after two months due to a lukewarm reception caused by an overload of features that detracted from its core appeal. The game is being relaunched as Splitgate Arena Reloaded, with a new release date and gameplay perspective. Key changes include the removal of hero characters and their abilities, a focus on classic shooter gameplay, the introduction of new arena modes, five new maps, six reworked maps, and three new primary weapons, including the Railgun. The progression system and Ranked play have been overhauled, and store prices have been reduced. Splitgate Arena Reloaded is set to launch as a free-to-play title on Steam and the Epic Games Store on December 17.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

Google Pixel Ghost Apps Bug Plagues Models 7-10 in Android 16 Update

In late November 2025, Google Pixel users reported a "ghost app" issue where apps reopen without user intervention, affecting multiple models from Pixel 9 to Pixel 10. This problem has been linked to recent software updates and has been described as a systemic glitch. Users also reported "ghost touches" on older models like the Pixel 7, where screens register inputs without contact. Complaints include apps struggling to stay closed, overheating, and inconsistent performance, with theories suggesting bugs in Android 16 and issues with the Pixel's Tensor chips. A botched privacy update may have exacerbated the problem by throttling background processes. The ongoing reliability challenges have led to a significant erosion of user trust in the Pixel brand.

Winsage

November 18, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7262 (Dev & Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7262 (KB5070303) has been released for both the Dev and Beta Channels, unifying the experience as both channels will receive the same builds based on Windows 11, version 25H2. Users in the Dev Channel have the option to switch to the Beta Channel while both channels are receiving the same updates. New features include high-definition voices in Narrator and Magnifier, which enhance audio clarity and reduce listening fatigue. The Narrator now supports reading mathematical equations in a structured manner. Other changes include a streamlined Click to Do context menu, improvements to teaching tips, haptic feedback for pens, and various fixes for issues in Task Manager, Settings, and general functionality. Known issues include problems with the Start menu and system tray, as well as crashes for ARM64 users with Visual Studio or .NET Framework applications. Updates are rolled out gradually, and feedback is encouraged through the Feedback Hub.