voice Archives

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

How many of these videogame world maps do you recognize?

PC Gamer offers a variety of quizzes for gaming enthusiasts, including a challenge focused on identifying video games from screenshots of their world maps. Participants have 15 minutes to recognize 20 games based on these images, which may not show the entire map. The challenge encourages sharing results and discussing notable video game world maps.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

As a Thomas superfan, Thomas and Friends Wonders of Sodor would have blown my four-year-old mind

The author had a childhood fascination with Thomas the Tank Engine, influenced by their grandfather, a train enthusiast. In the late 90s, special Thomas-themed days were held at the railway where the grandfather worked, allowing children to ride in Thomas replicas. The author recalls a cherished experience of riding in the cab of a Thomas engine. The release of "Thomas and Friends: Wonders of Sodor" evokes nostalgia for the author, who, as a video game journalist, critiques the game for its clunky interface and design flaws while acknowledging its charm and alignment with the series' essence. The gameplay includes scenarios like a race involving Thomas and Gordon, with interactive elements that would appeal to young fans. However, the game has accessibility issues, such as a lack of checkpoints, which can frustrate players. The mechanics seem more suited for adult train simulation enthusiasts, raising questions about the game's intended audience.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

New Android Automotive version will control more of your car

Google has introduced Android Automotive OS for Software Defined Vehicles (AAOS SDV), which expands beyond infotainment systems to control a wider range of vehicle functionalities. AAOS allows automakers to create premium infotainment experiences and customize user interfaces while integrating Android applications. The new AAOS SDV features an open infrastructure for non-safety vehicle components, enabling advanced in-car voice assistants and proactive maintenance reminders. It will also support over-the-air (OTA) updates for feature enhancements. This platform aims to address the inefficiencies of fragmented software architectures in the automotive industry. Google is collaborating with Qualcomm and Renault Group to advance this initiative, with an open-source version expected to be released later this year.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Connecting your car beyond the dashboard

Modern vehicles are becoming Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs), where software enhances functionalities such as pre-heating and smartphone unlocking. This shift allows manufacturers to introduce new features through over-the-air updates. However, the transition faces challenges due to diverse software architectures among manufacturers, requiring significant investment in infrastructure. Android promotes open platforms, exemplified by Android Automotive OS (AAOS), which enables carmakers to create infotainment experiences while reducing costs and time to market. AAOS is being extended to AAOS SDV, providing an open infrastructure for non-safety vehicle components, allowing manufacturers to focus on unique customer experiences. Collaboration with companies like Renault Group and Qualcomm is ongoing, with plans to make AAOS SDV open-source later this year.

Winsage

March 24, 2026

Microsoft Announces WSL Upgrades for Windows 11

Microsoft has announced enhancements for the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to improve the experience for developers using Linux tools on Windows. Key areas of focus include: - Faster file performance between Linux and Windows - Improved network compatibility and throughput - A more streamlined first-time setup and onboarding experience - Enhanced enterprise management with stronger policy control, security, and governance Networking improvements are particularly significant, addressing past issues with mirrored networking that caused “No route to host” errors. Additionally, a new dxgkrnl driver patch has been submitted to improve GPU support for WSL2, introducing compute-only GPU capabilities and support for multiple virtual GPUs. Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft VP for Windows and Devices, emphasized ongoing quality improvements for Windows 11, including reducing Copilot integration in built-in applications, enhancing Bluetooth and USB reliability, and improving search functionality and responsiveness. Despite these commitments, concerns remain, such as the mandatory Microsoft Account sign-in requirement.

AppWizard

March 24, 2026

This new Android Auto app can unlock your home’s front door

Kwikset has introduced an app for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that allows drivers to lock and unlock their home doors from their car's touchscreen interface. The app integrates with compatible Kwikset smart locks and appears alongside other supported apps once a smartphone is connected to the vehicle. The Kwikset app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store, and connected Kwikset locks are available at major retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Russia thwarts protests over the blocking of a popular messaging app, but frustration persists

Authorities in nearly a dozen Russian regions have employed various justifications to cancel demonstrations against internet censorship and the blocking of Telegram, including citing "tree inspections," snow removal issues, and COVID-19 restrictions. Activists have largely refrained from unauthorized rallies due to increased crackdowns, opting instead for court challenges or smaller indoor gatherings. Telegram, with approximately 93.6 million users in Russia, is crucial for communication among government agencies and military bloggers, despite the government's push for a state-backed alternative. Protests against Telegram's restrictions have occurred, even among groups typically supportive of the Kremlin, with some activists being detained during attempts to demonstrate. Instances of small pickets have emerged, although many requests for rally permits are denied. Legal actions against the government regarding Telegram's restrictions have also begun, with a growing number of plaintiffs challenging the measures as violations of free speech and privacy rights.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Crimson Desert’s bafflingly convoluted controls are already frustrating players: ‘That’s basic f*cking video game functionality’

Crimson Desert has been criticized for its control issues, making gameplay challenging and frustrating for players. Many players struggle with remembering key combinations for basic actions, and while using a controller improves the experience, it is still not perfect. Discussions on Reddit reveal widespread dissatisfaction, with players calling the controls among the worst in modern gaming. The absence of a feature to rebind actions, such as sprint and crouch, further exacerbates the problem. Despite the game's expansive world and enjoyable puzzles, the awkward controls and erratic movement mechanics detract from the overall experience. Players are hopeful for updates from Pearl Abyss to address these control issues.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8079 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8079 (KB 5079482) has been released to the Beta Channel, featuring improvements in explorer.exe reliability and voice typing settings. An issue with the Network and Sharing Center displaying two active Wi-Fi connections has been resolved. The updates are gradually rolled out to Insiders who have opted in through Settings > Windows Update. Features may not always be released and could change based on feedback. The desktop watermark is standard for pre-release builds, and users should ensure the toggle for updates is ON to receive new features promptly. Localization of features may improve over time, and feedback on localization issues is encouraged.

AppWizard

March 20, 2026

Xbox Game Pass Adds One of the Great RPGs of All Time With 50 Hours of Content

Xbox Game Pass has added Disco Elysium – The Final Cut to its Ultimate, Premium, and PC tiers. The game has a Metacritic rating of 91 and won four awards at The Game Awards 2019, including Best Role-Playing Game and Best Narrative. It offers approximately 20 to 25 hours of main storyline gameplay, with an additional 10 hours of side quests, and around 50 hours for completionists. The version available is The Final Cut, released in 2021, featuring new content and full voice acting. Disco Elysium has an 88% approval rating on Steam and a near-perfect score on the Xbox Store. Subscribers can access the game without purchasing it, and a 20% discount is available for outright purchases while it remains part of the subscription service.