standards

Winsage
August 22, 2026
Microsoft will end standard support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting an estimated 400 million PCs that may not meet the new eligibility criteria for Windows 11, which include TPM 2.0, UEFI Secure Boot, and modern processors. This could lead to a potential increase of 1.6 billion pounds of electronic waste if these devices are discarded. Users may need to invest in new hardware or alternative operating systems, despite their current machines still functioning adequately. Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates program until October 12, 2027, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, which will be supported until January 2032. Users can also consider transitioning to Linux or ChromeOS Flex for older computers.
Tech Optimizer
August 20, 2026
Surfshark offers a cybersecurity package called Surfshark One, which includes antivirus capabilities and a VPN service. The overall rating for Surfshark is 4.1/5, with specific ratings of 3.7/5 for protection, 4.5/5 for performance, 3.3/5 for features, 5.0/5 for support, and 4.5/5 for value. The antivirus component has a 93.44% malware detection rate and a 95% phishing detection rate with no false alarms. Surfshark One costs .79 per month and includes features like real-time protection, scheduled scans, breach alerts, a private search engine, and webcam protection. The One+ tier adds Incogni data removal and identity theft insurance. Surfshark Antivirus is not available as a standalone product and lacks features such as a firewall, password manager, and parental controls. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android. Surfshark provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
AppWizard
August 18, 2026
Grand Theft Auto 6 is expected to offer an immersive gaming experience that closely resembles reality. In contrast, Grand Theft Auto 5 seems less immersive by current standards. To enhance the experience, the Roleplay Alone mod was used, allowing players to engage in various activities like mining and cannabis distribution with characters such as Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. The mod introduces tasks that include using a two-handed mattock for mining, with an energy meter that adds realism. Players can assign blue-collar tasks to iconic characters, providing a unique and entertaining twist to the gameplay. Although the mining efforts yielded minimal in-game currency, the experience was enjoyable and highlighted the game's potential for exploration, including new activities like fishing.
AppWizard
August 17, 2026
In 2021, interest in the first-person shooter "Quake" from the '90s surged, leading to discussions about similar games. "Doom II," released in 1994, featured larger levels, new enemies, and enhanced multiplayer options, becoming one of the best PC games of the '90s. "Heretic," also from 1994, allowed players to control Corvus, an elven warrior, and included multiplayer combat, with innovations like an inventory system and secondary fire options. "Duke Nukem 3D," released in 1996, introduced a humorous protagonist and featured cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, becoming a nostalgic classic. "Turok 2: Seeds of Evil," the 1998 sequel to "Turok: Dinosaur Hunter," included multiplayer modes and showcased advanced graphics and level design, remastered in 2017. "Unreal Tournament," launched in 1999, emphasized multiplayer combat in an arena shooter format, marking a significant moment for Epic Games and showcasing impressive visuals and performance.
AppWizard
August 16, 2026
The Deep Orange 17, an experimental solar prototype developed by graduate students at Clemson University, is named 'Luminetta' and features a boxy design inspired by the boxfish. It weighs 1,212 lb (550 kg) and incorporates over 1,700 photovoltaic cells, allowing it to generate up to 5.7 kWh of energy per day. The vehicle's solar array can potentially provide an additional 31 miles (50 km) of range from sunlight. The design focuses on extreme weight reduction and employs a skeletal chassis made from 3D-printed metal joints and lightweight composite body panels. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of an energy-positive vehicle, although its performance relies on ideal conditions and raises concerns about crash safety and comfort.
TrendTechie
August 16, 2026
The remake of Assassin's Creed: Black Flag Resynced has been compromised by hackers, making it available for download on various torrent sites. This breach occurred a little over a month after the game's official release on July 9. The hacker, known as voice38, successfully bypassed Denuvo's anti-piracy measures and has previously hacked other titles. The game is available on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect, as well as on PS5 and Xbox Series, featuring Russian subtitles and significant enhancements such as redesigned mission structures, revamped combat systems, improved parkour mechanics, enhanced graphics, and new narrative content. Additionally, Mafia: The Old Country has released an expansion titled “Man of Honor”.
Winsage
August 16, 2026
Microsoft has acknowledged a bug in Windows 11 that disrupts the functionality of Internet Explorer mode within Microsoft Edge for certain users, affecting the loading of legacy websites and applications. This issue primarily impacts organizations that rely on IE mode for older internal web applications. Microsoft is investigating the matter and developing a fix, but no timeline for resolution has been provided. Organizations are advised to identify affected internal websites, monitor the Windows release health dashboard for updates, avoid altering IE mode configurations, and report issues through Microsoft support if they impact critical applications.
AppWizard
August 13, 2026
Android smartphones often have a trade-off between price and software support. Motorola typically offers two major Android updates and three years of security patches for flagship models, while mid-range devices receive only one Android update and two years of security patches. Motorola devices, like the Moto G line, are priced under 0 and provide solid battery life and camera performance. Xiaomi's software support varies, with models like the Xiaomi 14 and 15 receiving up to five years of patches starting in 2026, while entry-level models offer only two to three years of support. Imported Xiaomi devices, such as the Redmi Note or Poco X, feature AMOLED screens and rapid charging for under 0. TCL generally provides at least two years of security updates, but not all devices receive two Android version upgrades. TCL's Nxtpaper technology offers a unique display experience, and models like the TCL 60 XE Nxtpaper come with 8GB of RAM and a 120Hz screen. RedMagic promises two major Android updates and three years of security patches starting with the RedMagic 11 Pro. The RedMagic 11 Pro features high-end specifications, including the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and a 7,500mAh battery, priced around 9. Brands with subpar software support are identified by the number of promised major Android updates and the duration of security patches, with comparisons made against industry standards set by manufacturers like Google and Samsung.
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