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Windows 11 Faces Backlash as Slowest OS in 25 Years, Benchmarks Show
Winsage
January 12, 2026

Windows 11 Faces Backlash as Slowest OS in 25 Years, Benchmarks Show

Microsoft's Windows 11, launched in 2021, has been criticized for significant performance issues, making it potentially the least performant version of Windows in over two decades. Independent benchmarks reveal that Windows 11 is slower than its predecessors in areas such as boot times, application launches, and overall system responsiveness. Users with high-end hardware, including 13th-generation Intel Core processors, have reported noticeable slowdowns compared to Windows 10. Performance assessments indicate that Windows 11 struggles in various categories, including file operations, multitasking, and gaming, with longer boot speeds reminiscent of older systems. Gamers have experienced stuttering and frame rate drops, and Microsoft has acknowledged these issues in updates since 2022. The operating system is criticized for being a "resource hog," with preloaded features consuming resources even when idle. Users have reported lagging File Explorer and freezing processes, leading some to consider alternative operating systems. IT departments have noted increased support tickets related to performance issues, prompting some to delay upgrades from Windows 10. Microsoft has offered optimization advice, but critics argue these are temporary fixes for deeper architectural problems. The performance issues have implications for software developers and hardware manufacturers, increasing development costs and complicating hardware optimizations. Analysts warn that without prompt action, Microsoft's market dominance could be at risk, as users advocate for a leaner, faster Windows.
Make 2026 the year you cancel subscriptions for good — MS Office is a flat $35
Winsage
January 11, 2026

Make 2026 the year you cancel subscriptions for good — MS Office is a flat $35

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 is available for a one-time purchase of .97, reduced from its regular price of 9.99. This purchase provides a lifetime license for essential applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. The offer eliminates ongoing subscription fees and includes instant license delivery and complimentary customer support.
OpenAI Tests Ads in ChatGPT Android Beta, Sparking Privacy Fears
AppWizard
December 1, 2025

OpenAI Tests Ads in ChatGPT Android Beta, Sparking Privacy Fears

OpenAI is testing advertising features in the beta version of the ChatGPT Android app, indicating a shift towards monetization to diversify revenue streams amid rising operational costs. Leaked code suggests features like “bazaar content,” “search ad,” and “search ads carousel,” which could integrate ads alongside user interactions. Speculation points to a potential ad rollout as early as 2026. OpenAI has recently hired advertising engineers to support this initiative, which aims to utilize user data from billions of daily prompts for targeted advertising. Concerns about privacy and user trust have emerged, with users worried about the monetization of personal conversations. The advertising strategy positions OpenAI against competitors like Google and Meta, who already monetize through ads. The introduction of shopping research features in ChatGPT may enhance commerce integrations with sponsored recommendations. User reactions have been mixed, with some expressing excitement over new opportunities while others feel betrayed by the potential commercialization of personal data.
One of 2024's worst gacha games relaunches without microtransactions, and it's already looking so much better
AppWizard
November 25, 2025

One of 2024’s worst gacha games relaunches without microtransactions, and it’s already looking so much better

Gacha mechanics in gaming can evoke mixed emotions, with titles like Zenless Zone Zero and Honkai Star Rail featuring impressive graphics but facing criticism for their microtransactions. Solo Leveling: Arise was anticipated by fans but was quickly dismissed due to its aggressive monetization strategy, which included frequent flash sales and multiple subscription models. A review described the game as "too grindy, frustrating, and repetitive," with poor drop rates. A new version, Solo Leveling: Arise Overdrive, has been released on PC, removing gacha mechanics and allowing players to recruit Hunters and craft weapons without randomness. This iteration aims to reward effort and strategy, with players able to earn all Hunters through gameplay. The game currently holds a 75% rating on Steam, with some concerns about always-online requirements and anti-cheat issues. Netmarble is reportedly working on a solution for offline play. Solo Leveling: Arise Overdrive is priced at .99 / £34.99 on Steam, with a free demo available. Over 10,000 players have already engaged with the game.
I’m tired of ‘free’ apps that are just trying to bully me into paying
AppWizard
November 16, 2025

I’m tired of ‘free’ apps that are just trying to bully me into paying

In 2025, there is a notable decline in the availability of truly free smartphone applications, as many users are shifting towards privacy-focused, open-source, or self-hosted options. The monetization strategies of developers have led to free apps becoming nearly unusable without paid subscriptions, creating a situation where users feel misled by the marketing of these apps. Historically, free apps primarily relied on advertisements, but now many have stripped their free tiers to the point where users must pay to regain access to functionalities that were once available for free. This trend has caused frustration among users, particularly in regions with weaker currencies, where subscription costs can be prohibitive. Popular applications like Duolingo, CapCut, and Evernote have progressively restricted their free offerings, pushing users towards premium tiers. While there is an understanding of the need for monetization, misleading advertising and a decline in user experience are major concerns. Some apps have successfully balanced monetization with user satisfaction by offering functional free versions alongside premium features, and regional pricing can make subscriptions more accessible. Developers are encouraged to maintain transparency in their marketing practices to avoid user confusion.
Revenge of the Savage Planet director isn't happy with the sequel's revenue, despite it bringing in millions of players on Xbox Game Pass: 'If you give stuff for free, what you've done is told people not to pay for it'
AppWizard
November 6, 2025

Revenge of the Savage Planet director isn’t happy with the sequel’s revenue, despite it bringing in millions of players on Xbox Game Pass: ‘If you give stuff for free, what you’ve done is told people not to pay for it’

Revenge of the Savage Planet, released in May, received a Very Positive rating on Steam and an 81% review score, but has not achieved significant financial success despite over a million players. Creative director Alex Hutchinson expressed concerns that the influx of players through Game Pass has negatively impacted revenue, as the attach rate for the expansion pack among Game Pass users is low compared to those who purchased the game outright. He noted that players conditioned to expect free content are less likely to pay for additional content. Hutchinson described the current gaming landscape as a "race to the bottom," exacerbated by subscription services and discounts. While some industry voices, like Mike Rose, see benefits in visibility and sales from Game Pass, others, including former Xbox VP Pete Hines, agree that high adoption rates may reduce retail revenue. Microsoft acknowledged a significant revenue loss related to including Black Ops 6 in Game Pass, which contributed to a price increase for the service.
World of Warcraft's most expensive mount ever may be making a comeback, and I can already smell the backlash
AppWizard
November 4, 2025

World of Warcraft’s most expensive mount ever may be making a comeback, and I can already smell the backlash

The Mighty Caravan Brutosaur was introduced in the Battle for Azeroth expansion of World of Warcraft with a price of 5,000,000 gold. It was removed from the game with the Shadowlands expansion but briefly returned during the 20th anniversary event in 2024. Dataminers have found hints suggesting the Brutosaur may return, potentially as a new variant called the Trader's Gilded Brutosaur, which is priced at approximately £60, making it the most expensive mount in the game. The community has mixed reactions to this new version, viewing it as either an aesthetic upgrade or a cash grab. The return of the Brutosaur raises concerns about monetization versus gameplay value, especially for players who invested time in acquiring the original mount.
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