skepticism Archives

Winsage

January 17, 2026

A bright idea: Latest Windows Insider build addresses file explorer’s ‘flash bang’ bug

Windows Insiders are receiving an update with Windows 11 build 28020.1371, which addresses a 'flash bang' effect in dark mode that has been troubling users, particularly on large OLED monitors. The update resolves an issue causing File Explorer to show a white flash when navigating between pages. It also introduces features such as Bluetooth LE audio support for two pairs of headphones and an internet speed check from the taskbar. Additionally, the Copilot app has been updated to version 1.25095.161. There are discussions about the reluctance of Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 due to stringent system requirements, although tools like Rufus allow some to bypass these limitations.

Winsage

January 16, 2026

Windows 11 users are still turning to third-party tools to bypass Microsoft’s push for all-encompassing AI — and “Winslop” is the most categorical example to date

October 5, 2026, marks six years since the release of Windows 11, which has struggled to gain user adoption despite the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. In response to user concerns, Microsoft introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing continued security updates for an additional year, with free access for users in the European Economic Area. Users have been hesitant to upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements, design flaws, and Microsoft's focus on integrating AI into the operating system. Microsoft plans to transform Windows into an AI-driven platform, but this has faced backlash from users. The integration of Copilot AI is expanding within Windows, including potential features in File Explorer. However, skepticism remains among users, leading to a negative perception of the company, referred to as "Microslop." Additionally, a new application called Winslop has been developed to help users remove unwanted AI features and other components from Windows 11.

AppWizard

January 16, 2026

Heartopia (PC) Review

Heartopia is a life-simulation game that blends cozy simulation elements with MMO features, allowing players to cultivate a town and interact with locals. However, the MMO aspects dilute the individuality typically found in cozy games, as multiple players receive the same accolades for completing quests. Gameplay involves repetitive fetch quests to unlock activities like home decoration and fishing, which can feel tedious. The game features a community aspect, but players may find their neighbors' homes replaced or their own home relocated between sessions, undermining familiarity. Character design is uninspired, and the user interface resembles a mobile game, lacking polish. As a free-to-play title, it includes multiple currencies that create confusion, with microtransactions for premium items. Despite these issues, the game offers engaging home-building mechanics and unique hobbies like Birdwatching and Pet Care. Overall, Heartopia struggles to effectively merge MMO elements with cozy simulation, making it a less appealing option compared to established titles like Animal Crossing.

Winsage

January 11, 2026

Microsoft Tests Uninstall Option for Copilot AI on Windows Devices

Microsoft is testing a new policy that allows IT administrators to completely uninstall its Copilot AI assistant from managed Windows devices. This policy, named “RemoveMicrosoftCopilotApp,” is being deployed through management tools like Intune and System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) and addresses concerns about data privacy, resource consumption, and unwanted software in commercial settings. The feature is currently available in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (KB5072046) and reflects feedback from IT professionals who prefer controlled environments. While this option is exclusive to enterprise-tier Microsoft 365 subscribers, smaller businesses and individual users have limited options for removal. The policy aims to balance innovation with risk management, especially in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance, where data privacy is critical.

AppWizard

January 10, 2026

Over half of The Sims development team is working on The Sims 4 and ‘the next evolution’ so I guess it’s time to start speculating again

EA's "next generation Sims game," codenamed Project Rene, will be a mobile game rather than the anticipated Sims 5. EA has reaffirmed its commitment to singleplayer life simulation experiences and is focusing on updates for The Sims 4. There are no plans for a Sims 4 remaster, according to modder SimMattically. EA introduced a platform called The Sims Hub to unify The Sims 4 with Project Rene and other titles, and plans to update the core technology foundation of The Sims 4. However, there is skepticism about the viability of previously announced plans for Project Rene.

Winsage

January 8, 2026

Microsoft’s Windows 11 AI Integration Draws Backlash on Performance, Privacy Woes

Microsoft's integration of artificial intelligence into Windows 11 has led to significant user dissatisfaction, with reports of sluggish performance, software bloating, and increased hardware strain. Users have experienced issues such as longer boot times, higher memory usage, and frequent glitches, particularly with features like Copilot, which disrupt multitasking. Outage trackers indicate surges in complaints about Microsoft Copilot, highlighting reliability issues. Concerns have also been raised about AI agents exhibiting hallucinations and security vulnerabilities, with users reporting risks of data leaks. Microsoft's claim that 30% of new Windows code is AI-generated has been met with skepticism due to persistent bugs. Hardware partners, such as Dell, have noted consumer disinterest in AI PCs, reflecting broader market hesitance. Privacy concerns have emerged regarding AI scanning user data, and internal reliance on AI for coding has led to notable errors. Security experts warn that deep AI integration could introduce new attack vectors. User feedback mechanisms have been criticized for slow responses, and there is a general call for AI tools that enhance rather than hinder user experience. Microsoft has adjusted its internal goals due to low demand for AI products, signaling a potential shift towards more user-centric updates.

Winsage

January 7, 2026

“Microslop”: Infuriating Video Sums Up How Microsoft Is Ruining Windows With AI

Programmer Ryan Fleury criticized Windows 11's AI-powered search feature in a video, highlighting a suggestion that users ask, “My mouse pointer is too small,” which yielded no results after a ten-second wait. In contrast, a simple search for the word “test” produced three relevant outcomes. Microsoft is committed to enhancing Windows 11 with AI, having ended support for Windows 10 to encourage users to transition to the new system featuring a virtual assistant called Copilot. New features include a Copilot icon on the taskbar and integration into Windows Explorer for generating document summaries. However, security concerns persist due to past incidents where sensitive information was saved in unsecured locations. Discontent with Microsoft's AI direction has grown since the discontinuation of Windows 10, and CEO Satya Nadella's comments against the term “slop” have led to increased use of the term “Microslop” on social media. Fleury's sarcastic remarks about AI's coding capabilities reflect skepticism about the effectiveness of AI in delivering quality results.

AppWizard

January 5, 2026

You’ve got 1 week left to play Anthem, the game that mortally wounded the one-time king of RPG studios

BioWare's decline is often attributed to the 2019 launch of Anthem, a live-service co-op looter-shooter that received a poor reception, with a review rating of 55%. Following Anthem, BioWare attempted to reinvent the game, but development was halted by EA in 2021. Prior to this, Mass Effect: Andromeda had already damaged the studio's reputation due to bugs. David Gaider, a former BioWare veteran, noted a shift in the studio's focus away from its loyal RPG fanbase towards a broader audience. After Anthem, BioWare released Mass Effect Legendary Edition, which was well-received, and Dragon Age: The Veilguard, which received mixed reactions. The future of BioWare is now dependent on the success of the upcoming Mass Effect game.

AppWizard

January 3, 2026

Silent Hill 2 Remake dev Bloober Team kicks off 2026 by giving us 45 days to figure out what ‘RemoSdNeulSerore-hsoOvamCeyerd’ is

Bloober Team has announced a reimagining of the original Silent Hill game and plans to release its horror title, Cronos: The New Dawn, by the end of 2025. A countdown site was launched on December 31, featuring the message "Dare to peek into the darkness..." and a cryptic URL. Speculations include a possible remake of the 2002 GameCube game, Eternal Darkness, and a potential update for Coreey's Murder Hovels. The countdown is set to end on February 15, a date historically associated with various game releases, though none align with Bloober's focus on horror gaming.

AppWizard

January 3, 2026

The PC game releases we’re most excited about in January

January typically sees a quieter period for PC gaming, with many anticipated titles debuting later in the month. Notable releases include: - January 12: Quarantine Zone: The Last Check (Steam) - Players act as a checkpoint officer in a zombie apocalypse. - January 26: Highguard (Steam) - A free-to-play hero shooter facing skepticism. - January 29: Cairn (Steam) - A mountain climbing game praised by early players. Upcoming gaming events and sales include: - CES from January 6-9. - Steam Winter Sale (December 18 - January 5). - Detective Fest (January 12 - January 19). - Board Game Fest (January 26 - February 2). - Taipei Game Show (January 29 - February 1). Early access launches in January: - January 6: StarRupture (Steam) - A sci-fi base building and defense game. - January 22: Bladesong (Steam) - Players craft blades in a dark fantasy setting. - January TBA: Echoes of Elysium (Steam) - A co-op airship survival RPG delayed from December. Major updates and events: - January 20: World of Warcraft's Midnight Pre-Expansion Content Update. - January 12: Anthem concludes its service. - January 22: Cult of the Lamb: Woolhaven expansion introduces new content. Additional game releases in January include: - January 9: Pathologic 3 (Steam). - January 12: Big Hops (Steam). - January 15: Craftlings (Steam) and Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon (Steam). - January 16: BrokenLore: Unfollow (Steam). - January 20: Mio: Memories in Orbit (Steam). - January 21: Dynasty Warriors Origins: Visions of Four Heroes (Steam). - January 22: Nova Roma (Steam) and Arknights: Endfield (Epic). - January 28: The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin (Steam) and The Midnight Walkers (early access). - January 29: Don't Stop, Girlypop! (Steam).