tasks Archives

Winsage

August 20, 2026

Microsoft brings improved Windows 11 hardware monitoring with upgraded Task Manager

Microsoft released a guide to optimize internet bandwidth usage for Windows 11 update downloads, focusing on policy settings for network efficiency. Enhancements to Task Manager include new columns for monitoring NPU (Neural Processing Unit) and NPU Engine usage, allowing users to see which applications leverage the neural processor. Additional columns for NPU Dedicated Memory and NPU Shared Memory provide insights into memory consumption for AI workloads. Neural engines in GPUs will also be visible on the Performance page. An optional Isolation column has been added to help users evaluate AI workload management. Applications optimized for NPUs will show specific designations in Task Manager, while high CPU usage with idle NPU indicates underutilization of dedicated AI hardware. Users can activate new metrics by right-clicking on column headers in Task Manager.

Winsage

August 20, 2026

The man behind PowerToys is most excited about these features that ship next week

PowerToys will soon introduce several enhancements, including a compact option for the Command Palette and a ripple effect for the Mouse Highlighter. The Command Palette will improve user interaction by allowing faster access to applications and settings, while the Mouse Highlighter will provide a more subtle method for locating the cursor. Additionally, PowerToys will incorporate Phi Silica to enhance features like Click to Do and on-device rewriting in applications such as Word and Outlook. The update will also simplify access to preview updates and include a comprehensive change log detailing fixes and enhancements. Users can expect a smoother Shortcut Guide, improved performance, and a new utility in the upcoming release.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

Android 17 will “choke” RAM-hungry apps — and can kill them if they go too far

The Android Developers Blog has announced new features to enhance the developer experience and app performance, including advanced debugging tools to streamline troubleshooting and updates to the Jetpack libraries that simplify complex tasks. The team emphasizes community engagement and encourages developers to share their experiences and suggestions, with plans for regular webinars and workshops to facilitate knowledge sharing.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

Gallipoli (PC) Review

BlackMill Games' World War I series has surpassed a decade of gameplay, with the latest installment, Gallipoli, focusing on the Gallipoli Campaign. This campaign aimed to capture the Dardanelles Strait and Constantinople but ended in a disastrous retreat for the Allies. Gallipoli features improved visuals, refined gunplay, and balanced mechanics, enhancing the gameplay experience. The game introduces new mechanics such as increased team sizes, a ticket system with unpredictability, realistic ballistics, a refined stamina system, and a suppression system that affects soldiers' performance. However, concerns exist regarding the limited rewards in the progression system, which may impact player engagement over time.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

Google Tells Android Auto Users To Update As New Version Includes Must-Have Patch

Google has advised Android Auto users experiencing disconnection issues to update to the latest app version. The problem arose with the rollout of Android Auto 17.2, with some users also reporting issues with version 17.1. The disconnection occurs every few minutes, often shortly after launching the app, with users noting that the application freezes after about three minutes. Downgrading to version 17.0 resolves these connectivity issues. Google has implemented a fix and recommends users install at least version 17.4, with version 17.5 now being rolled out. Users may need to manually update if they are on older versions. Additionally, users have expressed dissatisfaction with the new AI-powered assistant, Gemini, which is set to replace Google Assistant, citing issues with basic tasks and app crashes.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

Google is getting tougher on Android apps that use too much memory

Android 17 introduces expanded per-app memory limits to enhance performance on devices with 4GB to over 16GB of RAM. This update aims to prevent any single application from monopolizing system resources, which can cause sluggishness. If an app exceeds its memory allocation, Android can compress its data or terminate the app to maintain performance. Users will experience smoother navigation and improved performance, especially on devices with limited RAM. Developers must optimize their applications to meet the new memory constraints, or risk slowdowns or closures. Google is providing tools to help developers address memory-related issues.

Winsage

August 20, 2026

Upgrade your PC to Windows 11 Pro for less than $10

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, reduced from its standard retail price of 9. This offer is valid until August 20. The operating system includes features such as snap layouts, DirectX 12 Ultimate, BitLocker device encryption, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, Azure AD, biometric login, and an AI-powered assistant called Copilot. Users should verify their PC's compatibility with Windows 11 using Microsoft’s PC Health Check app before purchasing.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

New Android Auto Update: Google Releases Version 17.5 for All Users

Google has rolled out Android Auto 17.5, available to both beta and stable users through the Google Play Store. The update lacks a detailed changelog, indicating a focus on behind-the-scenes improvements. Users have reported issues related to the new AI-powered assistant, Gemini, which is set to replace Google Assistant next month, including difficulties with basic tasks and crashes. A bug requires users to unlock their phones to use Android Auto. Users can manually download Android Auto 17.5 using APK installers. Future features include support for widgets and video apps like YouTube, with video functionality available only to YouTube Premium users. The update will continue to roll out over the coming weeks.

Winsage

August 19, 2026

Microsoft removes WMIC tool from Windows 11

Microsoft has removed the Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line (WMIC) tool from Windows 11 builds 24H2 and 25H2, as well as beta releases, as part of a deprecation process that began several years ago. WMIC was first deprecated in Windows Server 2012 and Windows 10 and was later made a Feature on Demand in Windows 11 22H2 before its complete removal. The tool had been exploited by malware, including ransomware, for harmful actions such as deleting Shadow Volume Copies and querying security software. Microsoft recommends IT administrators use alternatives like PowerShell, WMI's COM API, or .NET libraries for management tasks.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

I modded GTA 5 into a life-sim RPG with mining, foraging, a mini-economy, and the ability to fall asleep in the middle of the road

Grand Theft Auto 6 is expected to offer an immersive gaming experience that blurs the lines between the virtual world and reality, surpassing the immersive potential of Grand Theft Auto 5. A notable mod for GTA 5, called Roleplay Alone, transforms the game into a pseudo-life simulator, introducing quirky tasks for characters like Michael, Franklin, and Trevor, such as mining ores and distributing cannabis. In this mod, players can see Franklin mining with one hand while wearing a stylish jumper, and the gameplay includes humorous moments, like collapsing from exhaustion. Although the mod does not make GTA 5 fully immersive, it provides an entertaining diversion with mundane tasks, including fishing, which adds to the exploration and creativity within the game.