summer Archives

Winsage

July 17, 2026

This Surface is the only laptop that supports Windows 11’s best new feature

Microsoft's Surface Laptop 8 features Snapdragon X2 chips, enhancing battery life and graphics performance. It uniquely supports Windows 11's advanced haptics, providing tactile feedback through the touchpad, mouse, or stylus. This feature allows users to feel interactions, such as when hovering over Snap Layouts. The Surface Laptop 8 for Business, launched earlier, operates on an Intel processor but also supports advanced haptics. Both models enhance the Windows 11 experience, with popular software like Filmora and Affinity already integrating this feature. Additional devices, such as the Logitech MX Master 4 and Surface Slim Pen 2, can also utilize advanced haptics.

AppWizard

July 17, 2026

Civil Servants to Switch to “Max”: New Messenger to Become Main Work Tool by 2030

The government has mandated that all work-related communications for state and municipal employees must transition to the "Max" messenger platform by 2030. The "Max" platform was developed by "Kommunikatsionnaya platforma," with a beta version launched in March 2025 and becoming a mandatory pre-installed application on new smartphones in Russia by September 2025. As of March 2026, "Max" had 100 million registered users and offered features like audio/video calls, chat, voice messaging, large file sharing, and money transfers. In July, the EU imposed sanctions on VK, the parent company of "Kommunikatsionnaya platforma," and "Max" was removed from the Apple App Store in June and from Google Play recently. VK stated that its services remain functional and are available on alternative platforms such as RuStore and Huawei AppGallery. Negotiations with Apple are ongoing to restore "Max" to the App Store.

AppWizard

July 15, 2026

What Do Pediatricians Really Think of Minecraft?

Minecraft is recognized by pediatric experts for its creative advantages, enhancing problem-solving skills and fostering teamwork when played with friends. However, excessive gaming can lead to obsessive behaviors, reduced physical activity, and potential health risks. Concerns about online safety and sleep disruption from gaming before bedtime are also noted. Experts recommend establishing clear limits on screen time and monitoring for signs of overuse, such as irritability. The American Academy of Pediatrics' 5 Cs of Media Use framework encourages parents to consider their child's individual needs, choose appropriate content, promote a balance of activities, and maintain open communication about online experiences.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

The PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct returns September 20

The summer PC Gaming Show featured world premieres and in-depth explorations of games such as Control Resonant, Total War: Warhammer 40,000, and Arkheron. The next PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct is scheduled for September 20, 2026. Last year's Tokyo Direct was well-received, and PC Gamer's Midas Whittaker attended, bringing back exclusive merchandise.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

GTA Online The Kortz Center Heist release time and how to start the heist

GTA Online has released the Kortz Center Heist update, which went live on July 14, 2026, at 10am BST / 5am ET / 2am PT. Players must enroll in the Fine Art Collector program and purchase the Art Studio expansion for their Mansion for 0,000 to start the heist. They will meet Raf De Angelis in their mansion to begin Tier 1 of the heist progression and can then scope out the Kortz Center. Players who log in before the update receive 0,000 in-game currency and a Benefactor Turreted Limo, while completing any heist grants the exclusive NOOSE Outfit and a ,000,000 in-game bonus.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

GTA Online The Kortz Center Heist release time and how to start the heist

The Kortz Center Heist update for GTA Online was released on July 14, 2026, at 10am BST / 5am ET / 2am PT. Players must enroll in the Fine Art Collector program and acquire the Art Studio expansion for their mansion, costing 0,000, to start the heist. The first step involves meeting Raf De Angelis in the mansion, followed by scouting the Kortz Center. Players who logged in before the update received 0,000 in-game currency and a Benefactor Turreted Limo. Completing any heist grants players the NOOSE Outfit and a bonus of ,000,000 in-game currency.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

Summer Games Done Quick raises $2.4 million for charity, cancels sponsored stream with SNK over Saudi Arabia ties

Summer Games Done Quick raised .4 million for Doctors Without Borders. The organization faced controversy over a sponsorship with SNK, which is majority-owned by the MiSK Foundation linked to Saudi Arabia's crown prince, Mohammad bin Salman. Following community backlash, GDQ canceled the sponsored stream within three hours and stated they would not accept funds from this sponsorship again. GDQ emphasized their commitment to human rights and inclusivity and pledged to improve their evaluation process for future sponsors.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

Streator Public Library offers Minecraft, arts, and games

The Streator Public Library is offering a variety of summer programs, including: - Minecraft Ore Scavenger Hunt until July 25 - Lego Club for children aged 5 and up throughout the week - Minecraft movie screening on July 22 from 4 to 6 p.m. - “Are You Smarter Than a Librarian?” robotics challenge on July 20 at 4:30 p.m. - Murder Mystery Meetup for teens on July 22 at 6 p.m. - Afternoon Watercolor on July 21 and Evening Acrylic on July 23 for ages 10 and up - Minecraft IRL craft and building sessions on July 24 and 25 - Dig In Reading Club on July 21 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with free pizza and games - Book Buddy Storytime and Game Time on July 22 - Mother Goose Club for toddlers on July 23 - Indoor Volleyball on July 25 Additionally, the library will host the Artist to Be Expo from August 3 to August 8, with an opening reception on August 3 from 3 to 7 p.m.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Pastor turns Minecraft into a mission field for the unchurched

A Reformed pastor in Switzerland, Florian Homberger, conducts weekly devotionals in Minecraft, attracting around 20 participants each session, nearly half of whom have no prior ties to the church. Homberger began using Minecraft after being inspired by the strong connections within an online gaming community. He created a virtual city named Convento and initiated the devotionals in summer 2025, with sessions lasting about 30 minutes. The format is interactive, involving in-game activities related to biblical themes, such as obstacle courses representing trust during challenges. Each session ends with participants launching virtual fireworks as a symbolic gesture of prayers. Homberger believes this virtual setting helps dismantle barriers to church attendance, providing a comfortable space for young people. He has also set up laptops in the parish hall for young people to log on together, viewing Minecraft as a legitimate social space.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Two PC freebies are the perfect weekend night spooks to complete in one night

Indie developer Crux Game Studios is offering two free games, Within and Decrypt, available for download on Itch.io until July 13. Within is a 30-minute game where players control Maya, who confronts nightmarish foes to rescue her brother, Nikil. Decrypt is a sci-fi survival-horror game that takes about an hour to complete, where players investigate a missing cargo ship and uncover a sinister reality.