shapes Archives

Winsage

September 15, 2026

Microsoft tried to kill Paint in Windows for a successor nobody wanted, then killed the successor

Microsoft's Paint has been a popular tool since its launch in Windows 1.0 in 1985, with over 100 million monthly users reported in 2017. Paint 3D was introduced as part of Microsoft's vision for "3D for everyone," featuring tools like 3D Doodle, Brushes for 3D surfaces, Magic Select, and Mixed Reality Viewer. However, it struggled to resonate with users due to a cumbersome interface and a lack of necessity for 3D capabilities, leading to its deprecation in 2024. By 2021, Paint 3D was no longer preinstalled on new Windows 10 devices, and Microsoft shifted focus back to the original Paint, enhancing it with features like background removal and AI-driven tools. Despite its potential, Paint 3D failed to bridge the gap between casual users and professional 3D software, and an open-source approach could be a way to revitalize it.

AppWizard

September 14, 2026

Google rolls out Motion Assist bubbles to Pixel, Samsung

Google has introduced the Motion Assist feature for Pixel and Samsung devices running Android 17, designed to reduce motion sickness during travel. Users can activate it by searching for "motion assist" in the Settings app or through the Quick Settings editor on Pixel devices. The feature can automatically activate in moving vehicles, and users can add a Quick Settings Tile for manual control. Once enabled, it displays two columns of shapes on the screen. Customization options include color, shape, opacity, and randomization. Motion Assist is available on all Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy (Fold 8 series) devices with Android 17, and users should restart their phones if the feature does not appear. The bubbles require version 26.33.32 of Google Play services.

Tech Optimizer

September 14, 2026

Top 10 Best Endpoint Encryption Software in 2026

The encryption landscape has shifted significantly, with Microsoft’s BitLocker and Apple’s FileVault becoming the primary free and integrated solutions for disk encryption. Organizations are encouraged to focus on comprehensive management capabilities rather than just acquiring encryption technology. Key management, compliance proof for auditors, and consistent policy enforcement across devices are critical. Native encryption solutions do not provide fleet-wide compliance, centralized key escrow, or advanced pre-boot authentication options. Various management models exist for different organizational needs, including options from Microsoft, Sophos, ESET, Trend Micro, Check Point, Trellix, WinMagic, Broadcom (Symantec), Dell, and Kaspersky. It is essential to ensure proper key management and recovery procedures before enforcing encryption to avoid data loss. Organizations should verify claims of compatibility and effectiveness of encryption solutions, especially regarding pre-boot authentication and cryptographic standards. Native encryption solutions are free, but management layers typically incur costs. Open-source solutions like VeraCrypt lack necessary management features, making them impractical for businesses.

BetaBeacon

September 10, 2026

Truckful launches October 9 for PC and Android, later for PS5 and PS4

Truckful is a single-player car delivery adventure game set to launch for PC via Steam and Android via Google Play on October 9, with PlayStation versions coming later.

BetaBeacon

September 8, 2026

Drop Duchy is bringing its unique block-stacking strategy to Android; pre-registration now live

Drop Duchy is a game that combines geometric block-stacking with strategic elements. Players must build their realm using blocks of different shapes and types, collect resources, protect their castle, and grow a powerful army. Each run presents a new landscape where tiles can be placed strategically to gain bonuses and resources. The game also features a deck-building system with over 110 unique cards, allowing players to experiment with new structures, upgrades, and modifiers. Additionally, players can trade with markets and guilds, improve their deck, and more.

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Sony rolls out Android 17 with Desktop mode, new camera tools, and more to Xperia phones

The Sony Xperia 1 VIII is receiving an upgrade to Android 17, with the rollout currently live in the UK and Germany, featuring software version 73.1.A.2.61 and a download size of approximately 1.2GB. Key features include a new Desktop mode for connecting to external displays, enhanced personalization options, improved Quick settings panel, advanced screen recording capabilities, and enhancements to the AI Camera Assistant. The update is also available for the Xperia 1 VII, Xperia 1 VI, Xperia 10 VIII, and Xperia 10 VII. The Xperia 1 VIII is set to receive four major OS updates and six years of security updates.

AppWizard

September 4, 2026

Nanoleaf wall panels now work in the Philips Hue app

Signify has announced a partnership with Nanoleaf to expand the Philips Hue ecosystem, allowing users to integrate Nanoleaf Shapes (Hexagons, Triangles, and Mini Triangles) into their Philips Hue setups. This integration requires the Philips Hue Wall Light Module, enabling control of Nanoleaf panels through the Philips Hue app and incorporation into Hue scenes and automations. The Wall Light Module is priced at .99, and starter kits with Nanoleaf panels start at .99, available in select markets.

AppWizard

September 3, 2026

How to check if Motion Assist has rolled out to your Android 17 phone

Google has introduced a new feature called Motion Assist for devices running on Android 17, which is designed to enhance user experience while in motion. Users can access Motion Assist through the Settings app or by searching for it. The feature includes a preference menu to automatically start when in a moving vehicle and can be activated via a Quick Settings Tile. It offers customization options for color, shape, opacity, and randomization of dynamic shapes that adapt to the device's motion, potentially reducing motion sickness. Motion Assist is currently in early rollout, associated with version 26.33.32 of Google Play services, and is only available on select devices.

Winsage

September 3, 2026

Windows 11 will get more secure next month, but gamers could pay in FPS

The Verge is a prominent tech journalism outlet that provides comprehensive analysis of the tech ecosystem, covering topics such as gadgets and consumer behavior. It delivers engaging and informative content through in-depth reviews, opinion pieces, and timely news updates. The publication effectively connects with its audience via social media, podcasts, and video content, adapting its messaging to diverse preferences. The Verge emphasizes visual storytelling, using high-quality images and videos to enhance articles. It aims to explore the intersection of technology and culture, positioning itself as a thought leader by anticipating trends and fostering a community of informed readers.

Winsage

August 30, 2026

These lightweight open-source apps should be built into Windows 11

Yt-dlp is a free tool that allows users to download media from over 1700 websites, including YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, without a graphical interface. Installation for Windows involves downloading the .exe package from GitHub and using the terminal to run commands. Yt-dlp offers features like specifying download locations, batch downloading from playlists, and adjusting file resolutions. Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities from Microsoft that enhances the Windows experience by adding features such as window pinning, custom layouts with FancyZones, and automated theme changes. It includes PowerToys Run for quick searches, Power Rename for mass file renaming, and tools for quick file previews and text extraction from images and PDFs. KSnip is a screenshot tool available on Linux, Windows, and macOS that allows users to capture and edit screenshots efficiently. It features customizable hotkeys, robust editing tools, and options for automatic uploads to FTP servers or Imgur.