services Archives

Winsage

May 4, 2026

Microsoft confirms April Windows updates cause backup failures

Microsoft has acknowledged that the April 2026 security updates have disrupted the functionality of various third-party backup applications using the psmounterex.sys driver, raising concerns among users. The issue primarily affects software leveraging the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) snapshots, leading to failures due to VSS service timeouts. Notable impacted products include Macrium Reflect, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, UrBackup Server, and NinjaOne Backup, used on Windows 11, Windows Server, and Windows 10 devices. Disruptions can manifest as failures to mount backup image files, errors or timeouts when browsing or restoring from backup images, and error messages related to VSS timeouts. Microsoft updated its support documentation to clarify that the April updates included a security hardening change that added psmounterex.sys to the vulnerable driver blocklist to protect against a high-severity buffer overflow vulnerability (CVE-2023-43896). Affected users are advised to upgrade to newer application versions with updated drivers and not to uninstall or pause the security update. Users can check if the Microsoft Vulnerable Driver Blocklist is blocking a driver by looking for Event ID 3077 in the Code Integrity Operational log. Additionally, Microsoft has alerted users that some Windows Server 2025 devices may boot into BitLocker recovery mode after installing the KB5082063 update and has issued out-of-band updates to address installation failures and restart loops affecting Windows Server systems after the April 2026 updates.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

Hack-and-Slash “SoulQuest” Vows Retribution Against the Gods Today on PC

SoulQuest, a hack-and-slash action adventure game developed by TomasJPereyra and published by Indie.io, was released on PC via Steam on May 1, 2026. Players control Alys, a widowed warrior seeking to reclaim her husband's soul from the Celtic gods, battling undead foes and confronting the goddess Morrigan. The game features fluid combat mechanics, a retro-styled world inspired by Celtic folklore and Arthurian legends, and a medieval soundtrack. SoulQuest is priced at .99 with a 20% launch discount and supports multiple languages. It is compatible with Steam Deck and can be wishlisted on Steam. SoulBlade Studios, founded in 2023, is the developer behind SoulQuest.

Winsage

May 3, 2026

Microsoft’s CEO promised the world to consumers in a speech about fixing Windows 11 — but one thing Satya Nadella said worries me

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reaffirmed the company's commitment to enhancing Windows 11 during a recent earnings call, emphasizing a focus on quality and serving core users better. He also expressed a commitment to Xbox and changes to Game Pass in response to customer feedback. Nadella mentioned that Windows now has over 1.6 billion active devices globally, highlighting its dominance in the desktop market. However, he faced criticism for including Bing and Edge in the consumer-focused dialogue, as their relevance to average consumers is questionable. Concerns were raised about upselling tactics within Windows 11, which some users find intrusive.

Winsage

May 3, 2026

Edge vs Chrome heats up again as Reddit users say performance and features matter more than brand loyalty

Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome are both built on the Chromium foundation, but they differ in efficiency, features, and ecosystem integration. Microsoft Edge has introduced features like sleeping tabs and Startup Boost to enhance user experience and battery life, and it integrates seamlessly with Windows 11. Users have reported better memory management with Edge compared to other browsers. However, Google Chrome maintains a lead in ecosystem integration and reliability across various websites, as developers often prioritize it during development. Privacy concerns exist for both browsers, with users noting that neither is a privacy-first option. The choice between Edge and Chrome depends on individual usage patterns, with Edge being a strong option for Windows 11 users and Chrome being favored for its consistent performance and integration with Google services.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Telegram Mini Apps abused for crypto scams, Android malware delivery

Cybersecurity researchers have identified a fraud operation named FEMITBOT that exploits Telegram’s Mini App feature to conduct various crypto scams, impersonate reputable brands, and distribute Android malware. This operation uses a unique string in API responses and employs Telegram bots with embedded Mini Apps to create convincing app-like experiences. The scams include fraudulent cryptocurrency platforms and financial services, with impersonation of brands like Apple, Coca-Cola, Disney, eBay, IBM, Moon Pay, NVIDIA, and YouKu. The operation utilizes a shared backend infrastructure, allowing multiple phishing domains to use the same API response. Users interacting with the bots are shown phishing pages within Telegram’s WebView, often featuring fake balances and urgency tactics to prompt deposits or referrals. Additionally, some Mini Apps attempt to distribute malware disguised as legitimate Android APKs. Users are advised to be cautious when engaging with Telegram bots related to cryptocurrency investments and to avoid sideloading APK files.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Why PC Gaming Has Never Been More Accessible Than In 2026

The entry point into PC gaming has become significantly easier, moving away from complex installation issues and compatibility challenges. Platforms now prioritize convenience, allowing players to transition from download to gameplay with minimal friction through pre-configured installations and one-click launchers. This evolution has attracted casual gamers who previously avoided PC gaming due to technical barriers. The variety of PC games available has expanded, with a focus on user-friendly platforms that feature large, organized libraries and straightforward download processes. Curation has become essential for accessibility, helping players discover new titles easily. There has been notable growth in simulation and survival genres, while open-world RPGs remain popular. The modding community has also contributed to the longevity of older titles by introducing new content. Overall, the trend toward accessibility and convenience in PC gaming continues to grow, making it an inviting time for new players.

AppWizard

May 2, 2026

Massive new Xbox Ally X update brings major changes to the Steam Deck’s handheld rival

The latest update for the Xbox Ally X introduces several enhancements, including improved docked usage, expanded game library support, and automatic upscaling through Auto Super Resolution. The handheld now automatically transitions gameplay to a connected display, disables its own screen to conserve resources, and activates Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh Rate settings on compatible displays. Users can adjust external display settings via the Game Bar overlay without exiting games. Controller pairing has been improved, with handheld controls disabled when a controller is connected. The left thumbstick can now function as a cursor for navigating applications that do not support controller input. Auto Super Resolution allows games to run at 720p but output at 1440p on external displays. The update also enhances support for the Xbox Wireless Headset and Bluetooth LE Audio, improves haptic feedback, and allows users to add custom game links in the Xbox app for easier access to games.

AppWizard

May 2, 2026

You no longer have to pay for Gemini’s smartest organization tool

Gemini Notebooks are now available on mobile without a paywall, allowing users to organize chats and files in a centralized project hub. Existing NotebookLM notebooks sync to mobile, enabling direct saving of chats as sources. The feature is accessible to both free and paid users, with source limits varying by subscription plan: free users can add 50 sources, AI Plus users 100, Pro users 300, and Ultra users 600. The rollout is live for most users globally, with updates expected in Europe and other countries soon.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Google flips the script, reportedly considers putting ads in Gemini app

Philipp Schindler, Google's chief business officer, indicated during Alphabet's earnings call that the company is revisiting the possibility of integrating advertisements into the Gemini platform as it explores new advertising formats for its AI Mode. Discussions about incorporating ads into Gemini first emerged in late 2025 but were previously dismissed. While there are ongoing discussions about ad integration, Ginny Marvin, Google Ads product liaison, stated that there are currently no ads in the Gemini app and no plans to change that. Alphabet reported .9 billion in revenue, a 22% increase year-over-year, with the success of Gemini contributing to growth in Search, Cloud, and subscription services.

Winsage

May 1, 2026

Microsoft ended security updates for Windows 10, but upgrading to Windows 11 Pro is only $9.97

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