tech Archives

AppWizard

May 2, 2026

PC Gamers Can Grab 8 Games For Just $12, Includes Peak

Digiphile has launched a PC bundle called the Landfall x Aggro Crab Showcase, featuring eight acclaimed titles, to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation in celebration of World Wish Day. The bundle is available for purchase until May 12 at 6 PM PT or until keys sell out, with a total value of 0. The minimum purchase price is set at , and any amount exceeding this will go directly to Make-A-Wish. An optional add-on for game soundtracks and artwork also benefits the charity. The eight games included in the bundle are: 1. PEAK: A co-op climbing game where players team up to scale a mountain and escape an island. 2. Content Warning: A co-op horror game focused on exploring eerie locations while avoiding monsters. 3. Another Crab’s Treasure: A soulslike game where players, as a hermit crab, hunt for treasure to reclaim its shell. 4. HASTE: A running game that challenges players to navigate procedural worlds while racing against the universe's end. 5. Totally Accurate Battle Simulator: A humorous battle simulator featuring chaotic, physics-defying battles. 6. Going Under: A satirical dungeon crawler where players battle through a tech startup using office supplies. 7. Subway Midnight: A light horror game where players evade a pursuer on a train while solving puzzles. 8. Stick Fight: The Game: A physics-based fighting game featuring stickmen with both online and couch co-op gameplay.

Winsage

May 2, 2026

Microsoft to Enable Windows 11 Updates to Be Skipped During Install or Even Paused Indefinitely by Users

Microsoft is enhancing the out-of-the-box experience for Windows 11 users by allowing them to skip updates during initial installation on consumer devices. Users can now pause updates for up to 35 days and re-enable this pause multiple times. Additionally, the shutdown and restart options during update installations have been revamped, allowing users to shut down or restart their devices without triggering the update process. These changes aim to provide users with greater control over their update experience while maintaining security.

Winsage

May 1, 2026

Windows shell spoofing vulnerability puts sensitive data at risk

Erik Avakian, a technical counselor at Info-Tech Research Group, discussed the patching deadlines set by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under Binding Operational Directive (BOD) 22-01, which requires U.S. federal agencies to address vulnerabilities within 14 to 21 days. CISA can expedite patching to as little as three days for high-risk exploits. The vulnerability CVE-2026-32202, rated 4.3 on the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS), was actively exploited but did not qualify for an urgent patch cycle, resulting in a 14-day deadline. Avakian noted the debate over whether this timeframe is sufficient, suggesting that Microsoft’s rating and other factors influenced the decision not to escalate to an emergency directive requiring a 48 to 72-hour response.

Winsage

May 1, 2026

Is 16GB Enough? Microsoft Says 32GB is the ‘No Worries’ Sweet Spot for Windows Gaming

The benchmark for a gaming PC is now 16 gigabytes of RAM, as suggested by Microsoft, which is classified as the minimum requirement. For future-proofing, 32GB is considered optimal, especially for users who multitask with applications alongside gaming. A recent Microsoft blog post outlines these specifications, noting that 40.97% of gamers use 16GB of RAM, while 36.62% have upgraded to 32GB, and only 8.15% are still on 8GB. Additionally, a 32GB DDR5 memory kit currently costs 0 or more. Microsoft also advises selecting multi-core processors and current-generation GPUs to match the desired frames per second and monitor specifications for an optimal gaming experience.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Google just dropped a new ‘experimental AI assistant’ app exclusively for Android

Google has introduced an experimental AI assistant application named COSMO to the Play Store, identified by the package name com.google.research.air.cosmo. COSMO aims to enhance daily tasks using artificial intelligence, similar to Google’s Gemini app. The app can operate using a local Gemini Nano model or connect to a remote “PI” server, although some features are not fully operational. The user experience is currently rough, with less polish compared to the full Gemini app, and access is limited across various regions, including on Pixel devices.

Winsage

May 1, 2026

Who needs ghost train scares when Windows is such a fright?

Andy Bailey, a reader of Register, describes a ride at Alton Towers, a UK theme park, that was formerly named Duel but has been changed to a ghost train experience. During the ride, he encountered a Windows error message stating "Memory could not be read" in explorer.exe, which he found unsettling. The error could be due to failing hardware, a problematic driver, or a code glitch. He reflects on how a truly frightening experience for IT professionals might include scenarios like encountering Windows' Clippy as an undead AI assistant or facing unexpected Windows Updates that disrupt the ride.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

This new deep-sea roguelike turns mining into a survival horror grind

Yogscast Games is releasing a roguelike game titled The Subminer, set in the icy depths of Enceladus, one of Saturn's moons. Players control a prototype bio-droid tasked with scavenging resources and escaping dangers in a procedurally generated underwater environment divided into three depth levels. Upon death, players return with upgrades for further attempts. The game features a submarine for navigation and support, while players can also dive into tighter spaces as a diver, facing increased vulnerability. The Subminer is developed by Tech Turtles and is set to launch on Steam in 2026. Players can wishlist the game for notifications upon release.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Massive Valve shipment rumor may hint at the Steam Machine’s launch window, but I have my doubts

A significant shipment of "Game Consoles" has arrived at Valve's warehouses, sparking rumors of an imminent Steam Machine launch. Brad Lynch reported that Valve is receiving a large quantity of these consoles, but it is unclear whether they are Steam Machines or restocks of the Steam Deck. The previous rumor about the Steam Controller had verifiable sources, while this latest rumor lacks such confirmation. The timing of the current shipment does not align with the schedule of the Steam Controller leak, raising skepticism about its authenticity. Valve has a self-imposed early 2026 deadline for the Steam Machine launch, with only eight weeks remaining until July.

BetaBeacon

May 1, 2026

5 of the best new Android apps you need to try this May

Key Launcher is a new Android launcher inspired by the T9 keypad layout, offering quick-fire search features and other functionalities.

Tech Optimizer

May 1, 2026

How To Choose The Right Antivirus Software For Your Needs

Antivirus software protects against various sophisticated malware threats, including ransomware, spyware, phishing attacks, and adware. When selecting antivirus software, consider the number of devices needing protection, the operating systems in use, and whether the protection is for personal or business purposes. Free antivirus options have improved and may suffice for average users, while paid plans typically offer better protection and support. Evaluating products involves reading privacy policies, utilizing free trials, and checking independent test results. The best antivirus software depends on individual needs, devices, budget, and online behavior.