tool Archives

TrendTechie

August 13, 2026

Весь топ из Steam за 399 рублей: как я перестал пиратить и тратиться на игры

Purchasing major game releases on Steam typically costs between 3,000 to 6,000 rubles, leading some players to feel that the investment is impractical, especially if they only play a game once. This has resulted in increased piracy, which poses risks such as malware. SteamPass is a subscription service that offers access to over 2,200 games for 399 rubles per month, allowing users to explore various titles without the high costs of individual purchases. The service operates by providing separate accounts for each game, but it has limitations, including a limited number of accounts for popular games and the need to switch to offline mode to avoid being logged out. Progress and achievements are tied to the rented account, and account sharing is against Steam's terms of service. Despite these drawbacks, SteamPass is seen as a safer alternative to piracy and impulsive purchases.

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

Minecraft console devs unveil new ‘Rixels’ technology, cutting texture memory usage by a massive 98%

4J Studios has announced a new technology called Rixels for their upcoming game, Reforj, which reduces texture memory requirements by 98.2%, from 4MB to just 72KB. This innovation addresses memory limitations faced by game developers and allows for smoother gameplay at 60 frames per second. The company has applied for a patent to protect this unique solution, which could also have applications in other fields beyond gaming.

Winsage

August 13, 2026

The guy who built Windows Task Manager in 1996 just remade it with a cyberpunk vibe — but there’s one big issue for PC users

Dave W. Plummer, a notable figure in programming, contributed significantly to Microsoft by introducing ZIP file support for Windows, adapting Space Cadet Pinball for Windows NT, and creating the Windows Task Manager, which debuted in 1996. He has shared insights from his time at Microsoft through his platform, Dave's Garage. Recently, he released a mockup of a redesigned Task Manager, named "Task Manager OG" (TMOG), which features a cyberpunk aesthetic and is currently available as a beta version for macOS, with a Windows version planned. TMOG combines elements of macOS's Activity Monitor and Windows Task Manager, providing essential system information and deeper diagnostics. The application is described as being half the size of the Windows Task Manager and is available for free download.

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

I tried to love ‘second brain’ apps. Here’s why I abandoned them — and what I’m using instead

Megan Ellis explored various "second brain" apps like Notion and Obsidian for personal knowledge management but found them to decrease her productivity instead of enhancing it. A poll revealed that 64% of users found these apps too complicated, while only 14% loved them. Ellis noted that the setup process for these tools can be overwhelming, leading to frustration. She experienced challenges with apps like Gemini Notebook, which, while good for content generation, did not serve as a comprehensive productivity tool. Her neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, made it difficult to adapt to complex systems. Limitations in functionality, such as Gemini Notebook's Android app issues and Notion's manual offline mode, further hindered usability. Ultimately, she found greater success with simpler, purpose-built applications like Notesnook for note-taking and TickTick for task management, which better aligned with her workflow and reduced overwhelm.

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

Gemini hits 1 billion monthly users, and Google just revealed what’s next

Gemini, Google's app, has surpassed 1 billion monthly active users, making it the fastest-growing product in the company's history. Google plans to enhance Gemini's functionality with new integrations, connecting it to popular applications like Ticketmaster, Otter.ai, Wix, OpenTable, Zocdoc, and Pandora. These integrations aim to streamline user experiences, allowing for seamless task management within a single conversation. Users will soon be able to manage meeting outcomes more directly with Granola and Otter.ai, edit websites through Wix, and plan social activities with services like Fever and GetYourGuide. Additionally, Gemini will assist in home management and entertainment through partnerships with iHeartRadio and Pandora, as well as services like Angi and Thumbtack. The rollout of these new services is expected in the coming weeks.

Winsage

August 12, 2026

Microsoft fixes 421 bugs and a Windows zero-day in August Patch Tuesday

Microsoft's August Patch Tuesday update addressed 421 vulnerabilities across various products, including multiple versions of Windows (11 25H2/24H2, 11 23H2, and 10). A critical zero-day flaw, the "Windows Ancillary Function Driver for WinSock Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," allows attackers with lower-level access to gain system privileges without user interaction. Additionally, the update addresses two other zero-day flaws, including the "Windows User Profile Service Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability," which has not yet been exploited but was publicly disclosed. The update is mandatory and should automatically install on supported PCs, with users encouraged to verify its application. The update also includes minor improvements to Windows features, such as enhancements to File Explorer, Windows Hello, Voice Access, and touchpad controls.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

3 Apps You Can Sideload On Android Auto

Transforming an old tablet into an Android Auto head unit involves activating developer mode and enabling "Unknown Sources" to sideload applications. Alternatively, third-party tools like Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) can be used to integrate unofficial apps. Sideloading carries risks, as these apps are not officially vetted and may malfunction after system updates. CarStream is a sideloaded app that allows users to access YouTube on their car display without rooting their phone, making it useful during parked moments. Fermata Auto is an open-source media player that plays local media files from a phone or hard drive, ideal for offline use. Screen2Auto mirrors a phone's display onto the car screen, allowing access to any app, but should be used with caution while driving.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

Automattic has introduced the Mesh app for Android

Automattic has launched the Android version of its app, Mesh, which helps users manage personal and professional contacts with privacy. Mesh allows users to visualize their network, add notes, and set reminders. The Android version utilizes features like split-screen mode, pop-up windows, and supports keyboard shortcuts on foldable devices. It includes in-app search, home screen widgets, and real-time synchronization. Mesh partially integrates with Automattic’s Beeper messenger for streamlined communication. Currently in early access, Nexus AI enhances user experience by enabling intuitive queries about contacts. Mesh prioritizes user privacy and operates on a subscription model, offering a free version with a limit of 1,000 contacts and paid tiers for unlimited contacts. Approximately 70% of users utilize Mesh for business purposes. The app, formerly known as Clay, is available on Google Play and compatible with various devices.

Winsage

August 12, 2026

This free tool lets you run Windows apps on Linux

Wine allows users to run Windows applications on Linux, but its performance can vary widely among different programs. Some applications may run smoothly, while others might need adjustments or may not work at all. Users are encouraged to consult WineHQ’s AppDB for compatibility ratings and setup tips. There is a learning curve for new Linux users, as some applications may require additional libraries or configurations. Community documentation and guides are available to help users.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

Google’s Android chief lays out his vision for how AI will change our smartphones

Google introduced new features in its Pixel 11 Pro smartphone, including a light that indicates when its Gemini AI is processing commands and a forthcoming Android feature named Halo that provides real-time updates on AI task progress. The company aims to reduce the need for users to micromanage their devices by allowing AI to handle routine tasks, such as scheduling appointments. Google anticipates consumer needs three years ahead in its Android development, focusing on how AI can enhance user experience. Other companies, like Samsung and Apple, are also investing in AI integration, with Apple planning to revamp Siri for better functionality. Despite advancements, there is growing consumer skepticism about AI, with 79% of Americans expressing distrust in businesses to use AI responsibly.