Software Archives

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Two Warhammer 40,000 games will be delisted from Steam on Monday, and one of them is currently on a 90% discount

UK-based publisher Slitherine Software announced that Warhammer 40,000: Armageddon and Warhammer 40,000: Sanctus Reach will be delisted from Steam on May 19. The games and their downloadable content will no longer be available for purchase on these platforms, but players who already own them can still download and play. Armageddon features 2D, top-down gameplay, while Sanctus Reach offers 3D, grid-based battlefields. Both titles have a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam, with Armageddon having nearly 900 reviews and Sanctus Reach over 1,100. In a PC Gamer ranking, Sanctus Reach was placed 36 out of 51, while Armageddon ranked 17. Currently, Armageddon and its DLCs are available at a 90% discount on Steam, with the base game priced at £3.35 and the total including all DLCs at £8.43.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

News Weekly: Android Show’s I/O edition, Google teases smart glasses, Nothing Phone 3 is on the way, and more

Google I/O is set to begin on May 20th at the Shoreline Amphitheater in California, with live updates from Android Central. Google has revealed advancements including Gemini, Material 3 Expressive, and enhanced safety tools. Gemini will integrate across the Android ecosystem for a hands-free AI experience. Material 3 Expressive will enhance the user interface in Android 16, focusing on five design components. Wear OS 6 will receive a visual refresh. New warning systems in Android's caller and Google Messages will combat fraud, while the Find My Device feature will evolve into Find Hub with improved tracking capabilities. Warner Bros. Discovery will rebrand Max back to HBO Max this summer, marking the second rebranding in three years. Nothing's Phone 3 is set to launch this summer, priced around £800. Samsung introduced a limited-edition Galaxy Ring in South Korea, featuring a new colorway.

Winsage

May 16, 2025

MSI PortalX ditches Windows apps to sync RGB via the web

MSI has introduced PortalX, a web-based lighting platform for RGB control in PC gaming, eliminating the need for traditional software installations. PortalX serves as a centralized hub for RGB functionalities, allowing users to adjust system lighting via a webpage without downloads. It offers per-device configuration and an ‘All Sync’ toggle for cohesive aesthetics, with adjustable lighting speeds. Currently, PortalX operates exclusively within the Windows environment, which may limit compatibility for users of Linux and macOS. The platform aims to simplify RGB customization and improve integration across future product lines. PortalX is set to launch soon.

Winsage

May 16, 2025

Microsoft confirms May Windows 10 updates trigger BitLocker recovery

Microsoft has acknowledged an issue affecting some Windows 10 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 systems after the installation of the May 2025 security update (KB5058379), causing devices to boot into BitLocker recovery mode. This problem arises when the update leads to multiple startup failures, preventing the system from initiating Automatic Repair without the recovery key. Users experiencing this issue may see LSASS errors and the 0x800F0845 error code in the Windows Event Viewer. Reports indicate that various devices from manufacturers like Lenovo, Dell, and HP are affected. Microsoft suggests troubleshooting steps such as disabling Intel Trusted Execution Technology, Secure Boot, Virtualization Technologies, or Firmware Protection. This is not the first occurrence of such issues, as similar problems were reported after previous updates in August 2024 and August 2022.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

Google Maps has stopped showing alternate routes on app, Android Auto for some

Users are currently unable to view alternate routes on Google Maps for both mobile applications and Android Auto, a functionality that typically shows faster or slower route options. This issue has been reported by numerous users on forums and social media, and tests confirm that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold also does not display these suggestions when connected to Android Auto. The cause of the problem is unclear but may be related to recent software updates. There are also reports of lagging issues with Google Maps on CarPlay, although it is uncertain if the alternate route problem affects that platform.

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

Best antivirus software for Windows 2025, tried and tested

Antivirus software has been a common tool for PC users over the past two decades, with many opting for third-party solutions for enhanced protection despite Windows 11's built-in features. User behavior significantly impacts computer security, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unknown links and not reusing passwords. Antivirus packages are designed to combat threats like ransomware, spyware, and viruses. The evaluation process for antivirus applications involved testing on a Windows 11 PC with simulated virus attacks and scanning the SSD for performance metrics. The top antivirus apps for 2025 include BitDefender Total Security (£49.99), Avira Free (free), Malwarebytes Plus (£49.99), and Sophos Home Premium (£37.46).

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

WebDevPro #90: GSAP Goes Free, PostgreSQL 18 Beta Launches, Node 24 Overhauls Windows Support

The integration of system design principles in software development is increasingly critical, influenced by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in development workflows. The demand for programmers who can quickly write code is diminishing, with organizations seeking individuals who possess a strong understanding of programming fundamentals and can oversee AI-generated outputs. Developers are now expected to leverage AI to enhance their work and maintain quality by recognizing when AI is not performing optimally. A holistic view of software architecture is encouraged, emphasizing collaboration and the importance of each code contribution to the overall project. The industry is shifting away from evaluating candidates based solely on syntax proficiency and coding speed, recognizing the value of strategic thinking and architectural awareness in developers.

Winsage

May 16, 2025

Windows 10 KB5058379 update triggering BitLocker Recovery after install

The Windows 10 KB5058379 cumulative update, released on May 13, 2025, has caused unexpected BitLocker recovery prompts for some users after installation and reboot. Reports indicate that affected devices, including those from Lenovo, Dell, and HP, automatically boot into the Windows Recovery Environment and display the BitLocker recovery screen. Users have experienced various issues, such as needing BitLocker keys to start up or devices refusing to start. A workaround involves disabling Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) in the BIOS. Microsoft has not publicly acknowledged the issue but support representatives are aware and working on a resolution. Microsoft has provided steps to resolve the issue, including disabling Secure Boot and virtualization technologies, checking Microsoft Defender System Guard Firmware Protection status, and disabling firmware protection via Group Policy or Registry Editor.

Winsage

May 15, 2025

Windows 10 is dying, hardware is pricey, and Citrix says VDI will save you

Citrix is promoting its virtualization platforms to address rising hardware costs and upcoming U.S. tariffs effective April 2025. Vice President Philipp Benkler suggested that organizations could extend the lifespan of existing hardware by using eLux, an operating system acquired from Unicon. As businesses face the end-of-life for Windows 10 and the transition to Windows 11, Citrix advocates for deploying centrally managed remote desktops from existing endpoints through its virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) platform. However, VDI implementation can face challenges such as "boot storms," which may lead to performance issues. Citrix recommends its NetScaler platform to manage these challenges without requiring additional hardware. While Citrix's approach aims to mitigate tariff-related costs, the company has increased its licensing prices, necessitating careful evaluation by organizations considering VDI. Security concerns also arise with NetScaler, as it is often targeted by cybercriminals, potentially introducing vulnerabilities. The effectiveness of Citrix's solution depends on each organization's IT landscape, budget, and ability to manage technical complexities.

Tech Optimizer

May 15, 2025

Neon Serverless Postgres: Azure Native Integration Now Available

Microsoft and Neon have launched Neon Serverless Postgres as a native integration within the Azure ecosystem, following its initial preview in December 2024. This open-source, serverless database solution is positioned as an alternative to AWS Aurora Postgres. Key features include automatic scaling, branching capabilities, direct database connection from Azure, Azure CLI and SDK support, and Semantic Kernel integration for RAG pipelines. Microsoft has invested millions in Neon as part of a broader funding round to enhance collaboration. Neon’s platform includes autoscaling, branching, and point-in-time restore capabilities, specifically designed for AI applications. EnterpriseDB has appointed Nancy Hensley as Chief Product Officer to lead growth for its EDB Postgres AI platform, which supports various workloads and modernizes legacy systems. Additionally, companies are increasingly adopting passwordless authentication methods, with MojoAuth offering solutions that integrate into applications to enhance security and user experience.