running Archives

AppWizard

April 24, 2026

After over 3 years of running like dogwater on Steam Deck, one of my favorite RPGs has finally earned its Verified badge

Dread Delusion now runs exceptionally well on the Steam Deck, achieving a steady 60 frames per second and offering over four hours of battery life. After the April 15 patch, frame rate dips have been largely eliminated, with only minor pauses during loading or autosaving. Developer Lovely Hellplace is working on a follow-up title, Entropy, which will build upon Dread Delusion's art style and presentation. The game features intriguing RPG quests, including one titled "The Ethics of Eating Flesh," which explores a moral dilemma involving a human meat substitute for sentient zombies.

AppWizard

April 24, 2026

WhatsApp testing Facebook Messenger-like notification bubbles, details here

WhatsApp is developing a feature that will introduce notification bubbles on Android devices, enhancing user experience by allowing easier access to conversations without fully launching the app. The notification bubbles will function as floating icons, appearing when a new message arrives and showcasing the contact or group’s profile picture alongside the WhatsApp logo. Users can tap the bubble to access a compact chat window for reading and responding to messages instantly. This feature will be compatible with devices running Android 10 and above, with optimal performance on Android 11 and newer versions, and users will have the option to disable it. Additionally, WhatsApp plans to redesign its top app bar, replacing the app name with the official logo. The rollout of these features will first go to select beta testers before wider availability.

AppWizard

April 24, 2026

This indie developer is making Titanfall 3 because EA won’t do it, and even in ‘pre-pre-pre alpha’ it’s one of the most fun shooters in years

Titanfall is a celebrated first-person shooter series that was halted by EA at its peak, largely due to its release timing between Battlefield 1 and Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare. A spiritual successor called ShatterRush has been developed by Tetra Studios, a two-person team, and is available as a pre-alpha build on Steam. The game features a speed-running tutorial, fluid movement mechanics, and allows players to pilot mechs with combat capabilities similar to Titanfall. ShatterRush introduces environmental destruction, enabling players to demolish surroundings and create new pathways. The developers plan to release updates approximately every two weeks to enhance the game.

Winsage

April 24, 2026

WSL9x: Add An Entire Windows 9x Subsystem To Your Linux

The Linux Subsystem for Windows 9x, led by Hailey Somerville, allows Linux to run within the Windows 9x framework by modifying the Linux kernel to interface with Windows 9x kernel APIs. Users need to create a specially modified Linux kernel (version 6.19) and a disk image with Windows 9x installed. The subsystem can be initiated with the wsl command, enabling both kernels to operate together. This initiative is reminiscent of Cooperative Linux and parallels the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL2) on Windows 10 and later. Contributions from the community have been vital to the project's development.

AppWizard

April 24, 2026

Google Verified Email delivers powerful boost to Android app signups

Google Verified Email is a feature that streamlines the email confirmation process on Android devices by eliminating the need for one-time passwords (OTPs) or link tapping. It uses Android’s Credential Manager to store a cryptographically verified email credential on the device. When a user interacts with an email field or a sign-up button, a prompt requests permission to share the verified email with the app, allowing for instant confirmation without leaving the screen. This feature currently supports consumer Google Accounts on devices running Android 9 or later with updated Google Play services. Apps cannot access user information without explicit consent, and the feature can also be used for account recovery and profile modifications. Developers can use the Credential Manager API, which is issuer-agnostic, but Google’s credential specifically verifies only the email address. Despite its benefits, Google recommends maintaining backup options like manual email entry or traditional OTPs for situations where no suitable credential is available.

AppWizard

April 24, 2026

First Dibs: Singapore’s first interactive Minecraft Experience

The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue will take place at Mandai Wildlife Reserve from April 24 to September 13, 2026. It is Asia's first immersive Minecraft experience, featuring guided tours through various Minecraft-inspired biomes. Participants will use a handheld device called the Orb of Interaction to engage with the environment, performing actions such as breaking blocks and gathering resources. Each session lasts approximately 55 minutes with timed entry slots every 15 minutes, and group sizes are limited. Children aged 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and entry is free for those aged 2 and under. Guests will receive a limited edition Minecraft Experience Cape upon completion and can purchase themed merchandise at the Trading Post. Bundled ticket options are available for access to other Mandai attractions, offering potential savings. The experience is designed to be accessible for a diverse audience, encouraging various levels of participation.

Winsage

April 23, 2026

Get Linux on your ancient 486 Windows 95 desktop using WSL9x — very old Windows PCs can cooperatively run very modern Linux kernels

A computer enthusiast has developed a tool called WSL9x, which allows users to run contemporary Linux kernels on early versions of Windows (from Windows 95 onward) and on machines with 486 CPUs. WSL9x enables the simultaneous operation of Windows and Linux applications without relying on hardware virtualization. The architecture includes a client program, wsl.com, which manages a DOS window for the console driver. Meanwhile, the Linux community is phasing out support for the Intel 486 CPU, with developers removing related support options in the Linux kernel, marking the end of support for this processor.

AppWizard

April 23, 2026

Goodbye, OTPs and magic links: Signing up for new Android apps just got a lot easier

Google has introduced a Verified Email feature for Android applications that simplifies the sign-up process by eliminating the need for magic links and one-time PINs (OTPs). This feature allows users to register for apps using a "cryptographically verified email credential" sourced from their Google account, which is securely stored on their device. It enhances security by enabling app developers to prompt users to create a passkey during registration. The Verified Email feature can also be used for account recovery and re-authentication for sensitive actions. However, it is currently limited to consumer Gmail accounts, and users with Workspace or managed accounts must still use traditional verification methods. Additionally, Google accounts created with non-Google email addresses may require extra verification steps from app developers. The feature is accessible on devices running Android 9 or newer and Google Play Services version 25.49.xx or later.

AppWizard

April 23, 2026

Binance’s Android app is quietly running TikTok and WeChat SDKs alongside 13 other trackers

Security researchers have found that the Binance Android app includes SDKs from ByteDance and Tencent, along with 13 additional third-party trackers. This raises privacy concerns for users, as the TikTok SDK collects device fingerprints, behavioral signals, and potentially clipboard data, while the WeChat SDK adds functionalities not necessary for a financial trading platform. The incorporation of these SDKs could expose sensitive financial information. Under EU GDPR and FTC regulations, undisclosed telemetry in financial apps may be considered deceptive trade practices, potentially leading to regulatory repercussions for Binance. Users are advised to revoke permissions from the app or switch to the browser-based platform. The situation could prompt regulatory scrutiny and audits of cryptocurrency asset management apps.

Winsage

April 22, 2026

Google and Back Market Launch $3 ChromeOS Flex USB Kit for Windows 10 Users Locked Out of Windows 11

Google has launched a physical ChromeOS Flex USB Kit, priced at a modest amount, to support users on Windows 10 whose hardware does not meet Windows 11 requirements. This kit, developed with Back Market, is part of a pilot program with limited stock. The kit includes printed guides and video tutorials for installing ChromeOS Flex, which is available for free download. ChromeOS Flex allows devices to boot in under 10 seconds and primarily supports web browsing and cloud-based applications, but does not support Android applications. It consumes approximately 19 percent less energy than similar systems and aims to extend the lifespan of existing devices to reduce electronic waste. The kit is available through Back Market, but future production and pricing details have not been disclosed.