Wine 11.6 has been released with a focus on reviving its Android driver, updating the build system for Android, and enhancing the DLL loader order heuristics to better support game mods.
FRANK OS is a newly launched open-source graphical desktop operating system specifically designed for microcontrollers, with its first official version, 1.0, now available. It is built on FreeRTOS rather than the Linux kernel, optimized for the RP2350 microcontroller, which has approximately 520 KB of SRAM and dual CPU cores. The operating system features a desktop environment reminiscent of Windows 95, including overlapping windows, a taskbar, and a start-menu-style launcher. It supports standard desktop behaviors and allows users to switch between applications using an Alt+Tab-style interface. FRANK OS comes preloaded with nine lightweight applications, such as an interactive terminal, a C compiler, classic games, and a ZX Spectrum emulator. Programs can be compiled as ARM ELF binaries and loaded from an SD card. The system is aimed at hobbyists and experimental use.
Windows versions in the past provided a unique offline experience, allowing users to explore a variety of local applications that were integral to daily life. Key applications included:
- Microsoft Solitaire (Windows 3.0): Introduced many to card games and mouse navigation, evolving from a tutorial to a beloved pastime with simple mechanics.
- Windows Sound Recorder (Windows 3.0): Launched in 1990, it allowed users to capture audio, creating a space for creativity and basic audio editing.
- Minesweeper (Windows 3.1): A grid-based game that taught patience and risk assessment through its engaging gameplay.
- Paintbrush (Windows 1.0): Released in 1985, it served as a simple digital art tool, enabling users to express creativity and learn design fundamentals.
- 3D Pinball: Space Cadet (Windows 95): Bundled with Microsoft Plus! 95, it transformed computer classes into enjoyable experiences with engaging gameplay.
These applications were valued for their presence and ability to provide comfort and entertainment without the complexities of modern technology.
- Marvel Mystic Mayhem will end new content updates on April 1 and servers will go offline
- Warzone Mobile servers will go offline on April 17
- Warframe is now available on Android with cross platform play
- CookieRun: OvenSmash is a real time battle action game with pre-registration available
- The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin is coming to iOS and Android on March 23
- Horse Racing Solitaire has launched worldwide on iOS and Android
- STPPL, a minimalist color puzzle game, will launch on Google Play next week
- Hatch Dragons, a dragon nurturing game, launches worldwide on March 4
- Takeoff: Unlimited, a 2D arcade dogfighter game, is available on the App Store
Win11Debloat is a tool designed to enhance the Windows 11 experience by allowing users to remove unwanted elements while keeping desired features. It operates via a PowerShell script and offers a user-friendly graphical interface. Users can uninstall applications, adjust Windows 11 features, and specify whether changes apply to the current user or all users. Key functionalities include:
- Uninstalling applications like Microsoft Edge, OneDrive, and various bundled apps.
- Adjusting privacy settings, including disabling telemetry and targeted advertisements.
- Modifying Windows Update settings to prevent automatic restarts.
- Disabling Bing web search in the Start menu.
To use Win11Debloat, users must follow specific instructions on GitHub, execute a script, and navigate through three main screens to make selections. The tool allows for the creation of a system restore point and offers options to apply changes to all users or just the current user.
Users are advised to update apps before using Win11Debloat to prevent the Microsoft Store from reinstalling removed applications. If some apps remain after using the tool, they can be uninstalled manually. The tool's changes are reversible, and most removed apps can be reinstalled, except for the Microsoft Store app. Users are encouraged to take their time with the options available and can reapply settings if future updates from Microsoft alter their configurations.
The Steam page for Forbidden Solitaire warns users to uninstall it "before it's too late." The demo features bizarre elements, including an eyeball offering upgrades and a character embedding gems into their own flesh. Players can cheat by inserting gems into their hand, with gameplay mechanics resembling traditional solitaire but incorporating unique twists, such as damaging opponents with removed cards. The game's lore involves a character testing the game on a vintage '90s PC, with messages from a friend discussing its controversial history. The demo includes strategic gameplay with key cards, cursed cards, and the need for careful decision-making to succeed. The player experiences a mix of card battling and puzzle-solving, leading to a sense of competence in card games.
- Focus Friend was chosen as the Best App of 2025 by Google for productivity management and personal growth.
- Pokémon TCG Pocket was named the Best Game of 2025 by Google for its design and experience.
- Luminar photo editing software and Disney Speedstorm were awarded for Multi-Device Excellence by Google.
The creators of the roguelike game Balatro are developing a new game called Beyond Words, which reinvents Scrabble by introducing multipliers and modifiers. The game will feature familiar mechanics, such as forming words with letter tiles, but will reward players for using obscure letters and longer words. It will have unconventional board layouts and over 300 gameplay modifiers. Beyond Words is set to be released in early 2026 on Steam and consoles, and a demo is currently available on Steam. The game is being developed by MindFuel Games, founded by David Doak and Stephen Ellis, known for their work on FPS games like Timesplitters and GoldenEye.
Google Play has announced its selections for the best Android applications and games of 2025. The Best App award went to Focus Friend, developed by Hank Green, recognized for its gamified productivity features. The Best Game award was given to Pokémon TCG Pocket, a mobile adaptation of the trading card game. Luminar won the multi-device Best App award, while Disney Speedstorm was named the multi-device Best Game. Additional winners included:
- Best for Fun: Edits
- Best for Personal Growth: Focus Friend
- Best Everyday Essential: Wiser – 15 Minute Audio Books
- Best Hidden Gem: Pingo AI Language Learning
- Best for Families: ABCmouse 2: Kids Learning Game
- Best for Watches: SleepisolBio
- Best for Large Screens: Goodnotes
- Best for Cars: SoundCloud
- Best for XR Headsets: Calm
- Best Multiplayer: Dunk City Dynasty
- Best Pick Up and Play: Candy Crush Solitaire
- Best Indie: Chants of Sennaar
- Best Story: Disco Elysium
- Best Ongoing: Wuthering Waves
- Best on Play Pass: DREDGE
- Best for Google Play Games on PC: Odin: Valhalla Rising
Microsoft Windows celebrated its 40th anniversary on November 20, 2025. The journey began with the launch of Windows 1.0 in 1985, designed as a graphical layer atop MS-DOS, requiring a graphics card and 256KB of RAM. Subsequent releases included Windows 2.0 in 1987, Windows 3.0 and 3.1 in 1990 and 1992, respectively, which introduced significant features like a 3D-styled interface and popular games. Windows 95, launched in the mid-1990s, introduced the Start menu and taskbar, selling over seven million copies shortly after its release. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw the introduction of Windows 98, Windows 2000, and Windows XP in 2001, which was noted for its stability. Windows Vista was released in 2007, followed by Windows 7 in 2009, and Windows 8, which faced user backlash. Windows 10 was launched in 2015, adopting a Windows-as-a-Service model, and Windows 11 continues to evolve with new design and hardware requirements.
