Series Archives

AppWizard

August 28, 2026

Android 17 hides the sites you visit, but not in every app

Significant strides have been made in enhancing the security framework for Android applications, with developers encouraged to stay informed about best practices to fortify their apps against vulnerabilities. Key recommendations include regularly updating libraries, implementing secure coding practices, and utilizing Android’s built-in security features like Play Protect. The Android Developers team has released new resources to help developers integrate these security measures. Additionally, the OkHttp Changelog has introduced updates for improved performance and reliability, including improved connection pooling, bug fixes, and new features to streamline development.

Winsage

August 27, 2026

Windows Weekly 998: Laptop Fort

Leo, Richard, and Paul discussed various updates from Microsoft and the tech world, including new Insider builds, OneDrive for Mac enhancements, advancements in AI, and Xbox gaming news. A significant upcoming update for Windows 11, referred to as version 26H2, is anticipated. OneDrive for Mac will receive a native sync engine, and Proton Mail will introduce automatic category filtering. Bill Gates warned about the dangers of artificial intelligence, while Adobe Firefly launched new capabilities for music and sound generation. The .NET Conf 2026 is scheduled for November, with .NET 11 expected to release. In gaming, Xbox is testing disc-to-digital entitlements, and the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X20 is available for 9. A limited edition Xbox Series X25 console is rumored for November, and the Xbox 25th Anniversary Collection is confirmed for November 13. IKEA has launched Xbox-inspired furniture, and Rockstar Games is preparing to reveal GTA VI. Nvidia has expanded GeForce Now to Firefox. Google will allow users to filter news in the Discover feed, but the advice is to seek diverse viewpoints. PowerToys 0.101 has been released, and Parallels Desktop 27 for Mac is now available. This week's RunAs Radio episode features a discussion on PowerShell 7's security features. SpiceBox Spiced Whisky is recommended as a seasonal drink.

Winsage

August 27, 2026

Microsoft is blocking the problem to fix Windows 11 KB5121003 restarts, crashes

Microsoft addressed printing issues and gaming-related complications linked to recent .NET Patch Tuesday updates. The problems were associated with RGB applications and the inpoutx64 system driver, which caused compatibility issues when certain games were launched. Microsoft has implemented a block to prevent the inpoutx64 driver from loading on affected devices, specifically targeting systems with the driver enabled and ARC Raiders installed. Users will receive a notification after the block is implemented, and the game should launch without further issues. The block is also being extended to systems running MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, while the issue with THE FINALS has been resolved. The resolution is being distributed automatically, and users need to restart their devices after the fix is applied. For enterprise-managed devices, IT administrators must manually apply the fix. Microsoft provided a temporary workaround by suggesting users disable the inpoutx64 driver through the Windows Registry. Users can change the Start value in the Registry Editor to 4 to disable the driver and may need to restart their devices for changes to take effect. Users are advised to back up the Registry before making modifications, and they can restore the driver by reverting the Start value back to its original setting.

Tech Optimizer

August 27, 2026

What The Tech: Beware of the anti-virus popup scam

A viewer encountered a popup warning claiming her device was infected with 120 viruses, which is a scam designed to induce panic and prompt users to download a deceptive app called “Total Cleaner.” This app has fake reviews, hidden costs, and privacy concerns. Modern smartphones typically do not need traditional antivirus programs, and such popups are ads from free apps or misleading websites. To protect oneself, it is advised to close the browser tab immediately, keep the device updated, and only download apps from official app stores after thorough research.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

Game of Thrones: War for Westeros isn’t even out yet and it already feels ancient

Game of Thrones: War for Westeros is an RTS game set to release in 2027, inspired by HBO's series. The game revisits the struggle for the Iron Throne, allowing players to command characters like Kit Harington's Jon Snow and listen to narration by Charles Dance. Gameplay involves constructing buildings, generating resources, training troops, and capturing territories, but it primarily features standard infantry units like spearmen and swordsmen. Only two factions, the Starks and Lannisters, are available in the preview, with the Starks able to deploy direwolves and the Lannisters focusing on economic strategies. The game lacks the excitement and complexity found in other RTS titles, feeling straightforward and uninspired, with gameplay that does not leverage the source material's strengths.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

Blue Dragon has been stuck on the Xbox 360 for 20 years, but no longer: a fantastic unofficial PC port unlocks the FPS, goes 4K, and even adds mod support

Hironobu Sakaguchi founded Mistwalker after leaving Square Enix in the early 2000s. Blue Dragon, a title from Mistwalker, is now available on PC due to a fan-made port created by programmer Tom, who used his toolset ReXGlue to recompile the game. This port integrates original game files into a single executable, enhances graphical fidelity, and resolves compatibility issues. Tom's work allows the game to run at 1080p resolution and 60 fps on systems with as little as one gigabyte of VRAM. The port was released on GitHub to coincide with the 19th anniversary of Blue Dragon's U.S. release, and future updates and mods are planned, including the introduction of characters from the Nintendo DS sequel.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

I’ve played Heroes of Might and Magic 3: Remake, and I still can’t believe we’re getting 2 HoMMs in the same year

The franchise Heroes of Might and Magic is experiencing a revival after more than ten years, with the early access release of Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era earlier this year and a full launch anticipated in 2027. The HoMM 3 Remake is the third iteration of the iconic game, featuring a fresh art style and several enhancements while retaining the essence of the original. The remake allows up to four players to embark on quests and introduces quality-of-life improvements, such as visibility of enemy troop movement ranges. The gameplay involves commanding heroes and armies, battling monsters, conquering towns, and gathering resources. The new art style features more detailed units and dynamic combat animations, although there are concerns about the loss of the original's distinctive character. Both the HoMM 3 Remake and Olden Era are set to launch around the same time, providing fans with multiple options for tactical gameplay.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

Apps won’t stop randomly crashing on some Pixel phones

Owners of Pixel smartphones are experiencing app-related issues, with reports of music applications skipping tracks and some apps failing to stay open. Users have reported varying experiences, with some experiencing crashes across all apps and others only with specific ones like Google Photos, Spotify, and CapCut. A Reddit thread has emerged where users share their frustrations, and one user noted that joining the System Services beta program resolved their app crashes. The issue seems to affect multiple models, including the Pixel 11 and at least one Pixel 9. Android Authority has contacted Google for further information.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

Here’s every major Xbox and PC announcement we’ve rounded up from the Future Games Show at Gamescom 2026

Gamescom is currently showcasing the Future Games Show, which features over 40 titles for Xbox and PC, including 13 brand new games. The event began today at 10:00 am PDT / 1:00 pm EDT / 6:00 pm BST and is available for live viewing or on-demand replays on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, X, and Steam. Major game announcements include: - Worms: Galactic Tactics: A turn-based tactical game set for release in 2027 on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 1/2, and PC via Steam. - Onimusha: Way of the Sword: An action-adventure game launching on September 4, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. - The Walking Dead: Streets of Survival: A side-scrolling beat 'em up releasing on September 18, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. - Dioxide: A tactical FPS with Soulslike elements expected to launch in the future on PC via Steam. - Wolcen 2: An ARPG anticipated to enter early access in 2027 for PC via Steam. - Serious Sam: Shatterverse: A roguelite FPS set for release on August 31, 2026, on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam. - SPINE - This is Gun Fu: A cyberpunk action game launching in 2027 for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam. - STAR WARS: Galactic Racer: A racing game set in the Star Wars universe, launching on October 6, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. - Alkimya: House of Wisdom: A survival horror game expected to release in the future for PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. - Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault: An action-RPG set to leave early access on September 2, 2026, available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam and Windows.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

Gemini is working on a ton of useful UI changes: filters, notifications, and more

Google is developing significant interface updates for its AI application, Gemini, aimed at enhancing user experience. Key features in development include: - A dedicated Notifications section to consolidate alerts related to completed tasks and activities, addressing the issue of disappearing notifications. - An updated Recents section with filters (Unread, Ready, Needs attention, In progress) to help users sort conversations without relying solely on keyword searches. - A Customize section for Gemini Spark, allowing users to discover and manage various skills and applications, enhancing functionality and personalization. - A new setting to hide Gemini’s status bar icon for a cleaner interface, giving users more control over customization. These features are currently in testing and not yet available to the public.