timing Archives

AppWizard

July 26, 2025

Valve could revolutionize gaming with a Steam-powered console

The PC market share for game sales is expanding, prompting Microsoft to consider integrating PC storefronts into the next Xbox. Valve may enter the console market, leveraging its expertise in digital distribution. A potential Valve console could be inspired by the Steam Deck, offering standardized hardware and compatibility with various games. This console could consolidate PC, PlayStation, and Xbox games, providing access to indie titles and making PC gaming more accessible for casual gamers. While Valve's success with Steam raises questions about the necessity of a dedicated console, the company has shown interest in exploring new hardware opportunities, as evidenced by its successful VR headset and handheld gaming device.

AppWizard

July 26, 2025

After a forgettable launch, Ubisoft’s Avatar game is getting a huge new update later this year, introducing new game plus and a third-person mode

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora launched on Steam in late 2023, featuring a visually stunning rainforest environment and allowing players to navigate as Na'vi characters. The game had simplified combat mechanics and faced a decline in player engagement due to minimal marketing support from Ubisoft. Developer Massive Entertainment released paid DLC patches, including a New Game Plus mode that retains gear and introduces stronger equipment and a new skill tree. A significant update will add a third-person perspective, allowing seamless switching between first and third-person views. The game received mixed reviews, with some praising its world while others criticized its performance and narrative. A third-person update is set to launch on December 5, coinciding with the release of the film Avatar: Fire & Ash on December 19.

AppWizard

July 26, 2025

After selling to Krafton, Last Epoch dev says fans shouldn’t be worried about the Subnautica 2 dispute: ‘Krafton isn’t looking to change us’

Fans of Last Epoch are concerned about the acquisition of Eleventh Hour Games by Krafton, which is involved in legal disputes with former developers of Subnautica 2. Judd Cobler, founder of Eleventh Hour Games, addressed these concerns on the game's forum, stating that the partnership with Krafton should not be alarming and that it aligns with their mission. He emphasized that Krafton is not looking to change the studio's direction and expressed optimism about future opportunities, including plans to expand the team. The game's third season, Beneath Ancient Skies, is set to launch next month.

AppWizard

July 25, 2025

Google faces new EU antitrust complaint over restrictions on removing pre-installed Android apps

A coalition of five digital rights and privacy organizations has filed a complaint against Google under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), alleging that the company restricts user autonomy on Android devices by making it difficult to remove or disable pre-installed applications like Google Search, Chrome, and Maps. The complaint claims that Google, designated as a ‘gatekeeper’ under the DMA, fails to comply with legal obligations to allow users to uninstall default services easily. Users reportedly face hidden settings, complicated instructions, and misleading warnings when trying to disable Google apps, which the coalition argues are designed to keep users reliant on Google's services. The European Commission has received the complaint and will review it as part of its enforcement process for the DMA, which allows for fines up to 10% of a company's global annual revenue and mandates changes in business practices for compliance.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

Windows 11 migration could be the perfect time to get an AI PC

Recent research indicates a significant shift in the IT landscape as businesses transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, coinciding with the emergence of AI PCs. A study by Dell reveals that 80% of UK businesses are migrating to Windows 11, viewing it as a strategic opportunity to adopt AI-ready PCs. 71% of IT decision-makers believe this transition allows for upgrades to more powerful AI PCs. Nearly half of respondents recognize AI PCs for their advanced security features (47%) and enhanced productivity (44%), while 64% consider AI-capable hardware essential for future operations. Security breaches motivate 46% of IT leaders to refresh their PC fleets, surpassing the 42% updating due to Windows 10 end of support. Challenges include software compatibility (45%), hardware compatibility (34%), and potential operational disruptions (32%), with 20% of businesses yet to start their transition. Additionally, 62% of IT decision-makers prefer a Copilot+ PC over traditional models, driven by benefits like longer battery life and superior performance.

AppWizard

July 23, 2025

Abiotic Factor review

Abiotic Factor is a survival crafting game developed by Deep Field Games and published by Playstack, scheduled for release on July 22, 2025, priced at £25. The game features a narrative about scientists trapped in a secret underground facility, combining humor and survival elements. Players use office supplies and academic skills to fend off interdimensional threats while exploring the GATE facility and establishing a home base that evolves over time. The game includes interactive mechanics for sleeping and eating, character creation with trait selection, and diverse combat options. Players can craft unique weapons and engage in cooperative gameplay, exploring new sectors and alternate dimensions for resources and lore.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

Minecraft teases Smurfs crossover with new in-game content

Mojang and Microsoft are collaborating with The Smurfs for a crossover in Minecraft, teased through a social media post featuring a pixelated Smurf and a mushroom emoji. The announcement is linked to the upcoming Smurfs film set for release in 2025. Expected additions to Minecraft include skins and costumes based on Smurfs characters, new mobs or NPCs like Papa Smurf and Smurfette, a themed world or map featuring a Smurf village, and size-shifting mechanics for gameplay. Players hope the update will be available on both Minecraft Java and Bedrock editions and accessible on the Minecraft Marketplace. Previous collaborations with films have included themed content, suggesting a similar approach for this crossover. The Minecraft content is anticipated to release shortly after the Smurfs movie in mid-July 2025.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

9 features I want Microsoft to add and improve in Windows 11

Windows 11 has received several feature updates, with version 25H2 upcoming, but it still lacks many user-requested features. Key issues include: 1. Users want more control over Windows Update, including the ability to disable automatic updates or schedule them flexibly. 2. There is a demand for the option to set up devices with a local account instead of being forced to use a Microsoft account. 3. Users miss the ability to resize the Taskbar, which is currently fixed in size. 4. The option to relocate the Taskbar to the top of the screen has been removed, and users want this flexibility restored. 5. A fully consistent dark mode across the operating system is desired, along with customizable live tiles. 6. Users would benefit from charging limit options for laptops to extend battery lifespan. 7. The settings page for File Explorer needs modernization to align with the Windows 11 aesthetic. 8. There is a call for a variant of Windows 11 that supports older PCs that do not meet current hardware requirements.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

InvroMining Makes Cloud Mining Easier Than Ever with Android App on GooglePlay

InvroMining, a UK-based cloud mining platform, has launched a mobile app on GooglePlay, allowing millions of Android users in 175 countries to access its services. The platform has over 9.4 million users and offers AI-optimized mining contracts without the need for physical hardware. New users receive an experience bonus to start earning immediately, with the ability to rent computational power for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple. Daily profits are deposited into user accounts, and the app includes features like a real-time earnings tracker and a referral bonus of up to 3%. The app's launch coincides with increased investor interest in digital assets, particularly as Bitcoin's value surpassed 8,000. InvroMining operates 135 mining farms powered by renewable energy and aims to expand sustainable mining services to underserved communities. The app is available for free on GooglePlay.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

How to use Windows Update for Business with Group Policy

Windows administrators need to keep their systems updated for security and performance, with control over the timing and type of updates being crucial. There are three primary methods for managing Windows updates: 1. Per-client updates: Default for standalone clients, offering minimal control. 2. Windows Server Update Services (WSUS): Centralized management since 2005, allowing extensive control but requiring more administrative effort. 3. Windows Update for Business (WUfB): A cloud-based model providing greater control through tools like Group Policy and Mobile Device Management (MDM). WUfB offers several advantages, including policy-based management, granular control over deployments, and the elimination of on-premises WSUS servers. To implement WUfB, organizations must meet specific requirements, including using Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, or Team editions, Azure AD joining, and having the necessary licenses such as Microsoft 365 Business Premium. Administrators can defer feature updates for up to 365 days and quality updates for up to 30 days using Group Policy. They can create servicing rings for managing update deployments, such as testing, pilot, and rollout rings. Configuration involves creating Group Policy Objects (GPOs) linked to the appropriate Organizational Units (OUs) and setting relevant policies. WUfB reporting is available through the Azure Portal, allowing administrators to monitor update statuses and troubleshoot devices.