The lawsuit was filed on Friday. The primary defendants are Chang Liu and Tang Tan, who were senior Apple employees before joining OpenAI's hardware team. Apple is seeking injunctive relief and damages.

The company claims it has substantial evidence that OpenAI employees used their former Apple credentials to access the company's networks and copy confidential files.

What Apple Alleges Against OpenAI and Who Is Named

The lawsuit alleges that OpenAI built its hardware project using confidential information stolen from Apple. The specific claims include that more than 400 former Apple employees, many of whom had access to unreleased Apple products, joined OpenAI.

Among them are Chang Liu, a senior electrical engineer at Apple for eight years before moving to OpenAI in January, and Tang Tan, who helped design the iPod, iPhone, and Apple Watch.

It is alleged that Liu and Tan led a pattern of hiring former Apple employees and advising them on how to extract files and devices while avoiding security measures.

Liu reportedly shared messages celebrating the exploit with a former colleague. The lawsuit also claims that OpenAI misled Apple's third-party partners into revealing details of manufacturing techniques, suggesting it had Apple's approval.

Additionally, OpenAI is accused of gathering information about power, batteries, and other components from Apple’s partners. Apple stated that it brought these concerns to OpenAI in February but did not receive a response.

Tang Tan led the design of the iPhone and Apple Watch at Apple before leaving in 2024 to co-found a hardware startup called io with fellow Apple design veteran Jony Ive.

OpenAI later acquired io, which brought Tan into OpenAI's hardware division. Chang Liu spent eight years at Apple as a senior electrical engineer before joining OpenAI in January 2026.

Both individuals are identified as key figures in a broader pattern of alleged trade secret misappropriation. Apple has not revealed specific charges against individual defendants beyond what is outlined in the complaint.

OpenAI’s Hardware Plans, Past Apple Partnership, and Legal Stakes

The lawsuit comes as OpenAI works on a new hardware platform for its generative AI technology. According to previous reports:

• OpenAI is developing a device without a screen that uses its AI to help users by continuously recording visual and audio data and responding based on the context.
• Sam Altman has said that the device is not intended to replace smartphones, comparing it to how smartphones did not replace laptops.
• OpenAI is also reportedly creating a smartphone mainly for running AI applications, with a possible release around 2028.

The specific hardware, which is said to be built using Apple trade secrets, has not been publicly detailed by OpenAI. The lawsuit from Apple references the io acquisition and OpenAI's hardware ambitions as the source of the allegedly stolen information.

The lawsuit comes after a previous partnership between Apple and OpenAI that seems to have fallen apart. Apple had integrated ChatGPT into Siri, but the collaboration apparently fell short of OpenAI's expectations.

Bloomberg reported in May that OpenAI was preparing to take legal action against Apple as the partnership soured. However, Apple's lawsuit states that its complaint does not involve the ChatGPT-Siri collaboration.

Apple is seeking injunctive relief to stop further use of what it alleges are trade secrets, as well as damages related to the misappropriation.

The company has not revealed the specific amount of damages involved. Cases like this usually involve extensive discovery, expert testimony, and can take several years of litigation.

If Apple wins the case, possible outcomes include OpenAI being required to abandon or significantly redesign hardware products that involve the alleged trade secrets. Apple could also be awarded financial damages.

Additionally, there might be restrictions on former Apple employees working on OpenAI's hardware projects, along with increased scrutiny of talent movement between major tech companies in the AI hardware space

If OpenAI wins, the company could continue developing the disputed hardware without restrictions. There may also be a public defense of the practice of hiring specialized talent between large tech firms. Furthermore, potential counterclaims could arise related to earlier collaborations between Siri and ChatGPT.

What Users Should Watch as the Apple, OpenAI Lawsuit Moves Forward

Users interested in the AI hardware market should be aware of several developments. There have been updates to the case docket filed with the US District Court for the Northern District of California. OpenAI has issued statements in response to the allegations against it.

Discovery filings may reveal details about OpenAI's hardware plans as well as confidential information from Apple. Settlement discussions are also possible, which is common in high-profile trade secret cases before a trial.

For consumers considering AI hardware purchases, the lawsuit does not impact current products but could delay or alter the launch of OpenAI's screenless device or AI-oriented smartphone.

This lawsuit illustrates the broader tensions in the legal landscape surrounding major AI firms. Anthropic has been involved in disputes with the U.S. government over access to Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5.

Alibaba has restricted Claude Code for employees due to concerns over hidden tracking. Google remains under ongoing regulatory scrutiny. The dispute between Apple and OpenAI introduces a trade secrets aspect to the increasingly complex commercial and legal challenges faced by cutting-edge AI companies.

OpenAI has not publicly commented on the lawsuit. Users can monitor OpenAI's official channels for updates and check the U.S. District Court for case filings as the situation develops.

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As of early 2026, Space Marine 2 has attracted more than 12 million players, establishing Saber as a prominent studio for projects based on established IPs. A third installment, Space Marine 3, has been confirmed and is currently in development.

The company manages several studios and employs roughly 3,500 staff. Saber Interactive remains open to growth opportunities as it adjusts its development focus.

What Space Marine 2 Achieved and Why Saber Is Saying No to New Deals

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 was released in 2024 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, serving as the sequel to the 2011 hack-and-slash shooter Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine.

As of early 2026, the game has reached over 12 million players, making it one of the most popular titles in the Warhammer franchise by player count. The developers have continued to support the game with updates, including the recent Purgation Update.

Saber has maintained a steady stream of content drops, helping to sustain the player base and revenue well beyond the initial launch period.

Tim Willits, Saber's Chief Creative Officer, told GamesRadar that Space Marine 2 has shifted how the industry perceives the studio. He explained, "Because we have a reputation for doing well with licensed IPs, every major license holder wants to make a video game.

That’s just the way it is. Everybody." Willits mentioned that Saber has turned down several large projects, including a particularly appealing business proposal, which he declined to name.

The studio now has the capacity to produce AAA-quality games without needing a full triple-A budget. Willits sees this as a competitive edge, especially during a time of significant industry cost-cutting.

Saber’s Project Slate and How It Fits into a Shrinking Games Industry

Saber is currently working on several IP-based projects. These include:

• Space Marine 3, which is in development following the success of its predecessor;
• Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival; a remastered Hitman Classic Trilogy;
• Turok: Origins; and ongoing support for Space Marine 2 through additional content updates.

The studio is also exploring future franchise partnerships and additional original projects.

Saber's growth is happening during a difficult period for many game studios. Microsoft has announced plans to lay off 3,200 staff at Xbox by July 2027, including studios like Compulsion Games, Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and Undead Labs, which are being spun off.

Bungie has also experienced significant cuts affecting its Destiny 2 and Marathon teams. Meanwhile, IO Interactive closed its studio in Istanbul but is continuing work on Project Fantasy after Xbox withdrew funding.

This contrast shows that industry consolidation and cost-cutting measures are not uniform. Studios with successful releases and strong reputations for licensed IPs are in a position to grow, while others are contracting.

What This Means for Players and When to Expect Saber's Next Games

For players interested in Saber's upcoming games:

• Space Marine 3 is confirmed, but a release window has yet to be announced.
• Hellraiser: Revival, the remaster of the Hitman Classic Trilogy, and Turok: Origins are currently in development with no confirmed release dates.
• Space Marine 2 continues to receive content updates, with more expected following the Purgation Update.

Players who enjoyed Space Marine 2 can expect ongoing support for the current game while Space Marine 3 remains further down the line.

Willits believes that the industry will survive the current difficulties and that creative professionals will keep finding ways to produce quality entertainment despite ongoing challenges.

Saber's tendency to turn down projects instead of pursuing every opportunity indicates that the studio is well-positioned to be selective about its future projects.

Availability

Space Marine 2 is now available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The Purgation Update is also live for all platforms.

There is no official release window yet for Space Marine 3, Hellraiser: Revival, the Hitman Classic Trilogy remaster, or Turok: Origins. Users can follow Saber Interactive's official channels for updates as these projects develop.

The company has not disclosed which proposals have been rejected or provided timelines for future announcements. Based on Saber’s growth strategy, it’s likely they will share more project details in the coming months as they continue to assess new opportunities.

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The model is priced starting at $1.25 per million input tokens and $4.25 per million output tokens, making it a more affordable option compared to similar models from OpenAI and Anthropic. US developers participating in the preview receive $20 in free credits before any charges apply.

Muse Spark 1.1 features a context window of one million tokens, according to Meta.

What Muse Spark 1.1 Does and How It’s Priced

Meta introduces Muse Spark 1.1, a model designed for various tasks including coding and media understanding, across different input types. It can handle writing and debugging code, using software tools, interpreting text, images, video, and documents, and completing multi-step tasks with minimal human oversight.

Developers can ask the model to interpret written instructions, review screenshots, read project files, or operate within software environments as part of a single job. Meta states that the model excels at agent performance, tool use, and computer tasks.

Mark Zuckerberg described Muse Spark 1.1 on X as "a strong agentic and coding model at a very low price," emphasizing its strengths in agent performance and tool utilization.

The API pricing for Muse Spark 1.1 is $1.25 per million input tokens and $4.25 per million output tokens.

The US public preview offers $20 in free credits for new users, allowing testing without immediate payment. Meta’s chief AI officer, Alexandr Wang, told CNBC that the pricing is "very aggressive and attractive" and that Meta aims for a pricing model that scales with high usage.

Compared to other coding-focused models, Muse Spark 1.1’s costs are lower. Anthropic Claude Sonnet 5 charges $2 for input and $10 for output per million tokens, with an introductory rate valid through August 31, 2026, after which prices rise to $3 and $15 respectively.

Anthropic Claude Opus 4.8 charges $5 for input and $25 for output per million tokens. OpenAI’s GPT-5.6 pricing has not yet been publicly announced for broad availability.

Overall, Muse Spark 1.1 offers a competitive option at both input and output pricing levels.

API Compatibility, Free Credits, and How to Access the Preview

Meta has indicated that Muse Spark 1.1 is compatible with OpenAI-style APIs, which could make it easier for teams to compare it with other AI models. This means developers switching providers or testing multiple models might find it simpler to use similar tools and integration approaches, reducing the amount of rework needed. While

Meta hasn't provided specific details about the compatibility parameters, the mention of OpenAI-style framing suggests an API design that aligns with patterns established by OpenAI's Chat Completions API.

For developers interested in testing Muse Spark 1.1, Meta offers a US public preview through its developer platform. New preview users can redeem $20 in free credits.

To get started, set up API access using the endpoints provided by Meta. This allows testing of coding assistants, app development, and agent-based workflows before deciding to move to paid usage.

Meta has not shared details about regional availability beyond the US public preview. Developers outside the US should keep an eye out for announcements regarding international access.

What Teams Should Consider Before Production Use and Current Availability

For engineering teams considering Muse Spark 1.1 in their production coding workflows, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. It is important to establish rules for where the tool can operate and when human approval should be required before any code changes are made.

Setting up logging to track changes made by the agent is also advisable, especially for AI-assisted fixes that might cause issues downstream.

Defining review requirements for pull requests generated or modified by the agent helps maintain oversight. Additionally, sandboxing agent operations can prevent unintended changes to critical systems.

While the lower pricing now removes cost as a barrier to experimentation, it does not reduce the operational risks associated with running coding agents at scale. The responsibility for code quality and system stability remains with the engineering team using the tool.

Meta's launch positions it as a serious competitor in the agentic coding market, alongside companies like Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google. Meta previously introduced Muse Spark as an AI assistant for its smart glasses and apps. Now, Muse Spark 1.1 is aimed at a different audience: developers who want to integrate the model into their coding tools and workflows.

This move fits with Meta's broader push into infrastructure services beyond social media. The company has been expanding its enterprise AI efforts, including investing in custom silicon and data center partnerships to support large-scale model training and inference.

Muse Spark 1.1 is currently available in the US through Meta's developer platform in a public preview. The launch includes a $20 free credit and a preview pricing structure, which are active from Thursday.

Meta has not announced a general availability date or a timeline for regional expansion. Developers can keep an eye on Meta's developer channels for updates on pricing, new features, and availability outside the US.

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The back button appears to the left of the forward button, the favorite button, the download button, and the reload button. The addition brings Chrome for Android closer to the desktop experience and matches functionality that Chrome for iOS has offered for some time.

What Changed in Chrome for Android Version 150

Chrome for Android version 150 introduces a new back button in the top row of the three-dot menu. The button is located to the left of existing controls, including the forward, favorite, download, and reload buttons.

To make space for the back button, several other changes have been made within the same menu. The info button has been moved from the top row to under Site controls in the overflow menu.

The "Add to home screen" feature has been renamed to "Install and create shortcut," though its functionality remains the same. This new name aligns with terminology Google has used elsewhere in Chrome to describe the process of installing Progressive Web Apps.

On Android, Chrome has traditionally relied on system-level navigation, such as the back gesture (swiping from the edge of the screen) or the Android navigation bar, for going back.

Users wanting a dedicated back button had no in-browser option and needed to use gestures or system controls. The addition of this button provides a visible, tap-to-use option for back navigation within the browser interface.

It also brings Chrome on Android closer to Chrome on iOS, which has had a back button for some time, and aligns more with the desktop version of Chrome.

For those already using gesture navigation or the Android back button, there is no need to change their current workflow. The new button is an extra choice rather than a replacement for existing navigation methods.

How to Get the Update and Use the Back Button

For users wanting to install Chrome 150 with the back button:

1. Open the Google Play Store on an Android device, search for Chrome, and tap Update if the option appears.
2. Alternatively, check that automatic updates are enabled in the Play Store settings to ensure that the version 150 update is installed as part of the normal rollout.
3. To verify the installed Chrome version, open Chrome, tap the three-dot menu, select Settings, and scroll to About Chrome.

For users adapting to the updated menu layout: the back button is now located as the leftmost item in the top row of the three-dot menu. To find site information, which was previously accessed via the info button, tap Site controls in the overflow menu.

When installing a website as an app, look for Install and create shortcut options. Users who prefer not to use the back button can continue with gesture navigation or the Android system back button without any change to their workflow.

Availability and Rollout on Android

Chrome 150 for Android is now being gradually rolled out through the Google Play Store. The update is phased, so not all devices will get it right away. Users eager to update can manually check for newer versions in the Play Store.

Google has not announced any changes to the Chrome mobile menu beyond what is included in version 150. Users can follow the Google Chrome release blog for updates on future changes, as the browser continues to evolve on the standard Chrome release cycle.

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The operation took place from January 15 to April 30 and focused on social engineering scams, including business email compromise, romance scams, impersonation fraud, investment fraud, and sextortion.

Investigators closed 23,715 cases, identified 15,606 suspects, and froze 31,014 bank accounts. More than 142,000 victims were identified worldwide.

Scale of Operation First Light 2026 and Notable Cases

Operation First Light 2026 involved handling a significant amount of casework:

• 152,808 cases reviewed,
• 23,715 cases closed,
• 15,606 suspects identified,
• 31,014 bank accounts frozen, and more than
• 142,000 victims identified.

Tomonobu Kaya, director of Interpol's Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, explained that criminal syndicates often manipulate human psychology to target individuals. Kaya emphasized that no single country can tackle these issues alone and stressed the importance of coordinated global efforts.

In Eswatini, police arrested 82 people and dismantled an illegal online gambling and scam network that was involved in money laundering and impersonation schemes.

Authorities seized 240 electronic devices and a full-scale replica of a Brazilian police station, complete with fake uniforms, signage, and equipment. The scammers used the replica to conduct video calls, impersonating Brazil's Federal Police, convincing victims they were under investigation and pressuring them to wire money.

In Thailand, just two arrests uncovered a laundering operation linked to romance scams. One suspect, aged 20, managed a cryptocurrency wallet that moved more than $122 million over ten months. This case highlights how quickly a single mule account can grow when crypto is used to hide the trail.

Macao authorities conducted an anti-fraud outreach campaign that led to the arrest of a resident being coached by scammers pretending to be government officials. The scammers were pressing the individual to transfer nearly $372,000 as part of a fake investigation. Police intervened before the transfer took place.

In Palau, authorities deported 22 people after discovering two scam centers operating out of hotels. These centers used cryptocurrency and illegal gambling websites to target victims abroad.

Singapore and Oman both used Interpol's I-GRIP mechanism to block a $6.6 million business email compromise transfer. The criminals had impersonated a supplier to a Singapore-based commodity trading company.

How Interpol’s I-GRIP Helped Block Fraudulent Transfers

Several of the operation's most effective interventions relied on I-GRIP, the Global Rapid Intervention of Payments mechanism. I-GRIP allows member countries to request an emergency freeze on a fraudulent transfer before it clears.

The mechanism acknowledges that fraud is now truly borderless, with the victim, the scammer, and the bank often in different countries. In such cases, a freeze order must be faster than the movement of money.

Operation First Light 2026 was funded by China's Ministry of Public Security, with support from ASEANAPOL, GCCPOL, and Europol.

This operation is part of a broader pattern of coordinated fraud takedowns carried out by Interpol in recent months, including Synergia III, which sinkholed tens of thousands of malicious IP addresses, and Red Card 2.0, which led to 651 arrests across Africa.

What Users Should Do to Avoid Social Engineering Scams

For those concerned about the types of fraud targeted by Operation First Light 2026, there are several practical steps that can help reduce exposure.

Confirm any unexpected messages claiming to be from law enforcement, government agencies, or financial institutions by reaching out directly through official channels.

Avoid sending money or sharing sensitive information over unverified phone calls, video chats, or messages. Be cautious of urgent requests to transfer funds, especially if the caller cites safekeeping or investigation reasons:

1. Enable two-factor authentication on financial accounts, email, and other services used for business transactions.
2. Before authorizing payments, verify the instructions with the supplier or business partner through a separate, pre-established channel.
3. Be wary of online relationships that quickly move to requests for money, particularly if you have never met the other person in person.
4. Always consult trusted family members or advisors before sending money in response to unusual requests.
5. If you suspect you have been targeted, report the incident to local law enforcement and, in the United States, to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. Similar reporting agencies are available in most countries.

The Scale of Ongoing Fraud And What Comes Next

In 2025, the FTC recorded $3.5 billion in losses from imposter scams in the US alone, part of a total of $16 billion reported in fraud cases across the country, representing an increase of roughly 25% from the previous year.

The FBI estimates that cyber-enabled crimes caused nearly $21 billion in losses in the US during the same period. These figures only account for the United States.

Globally, Operation First Light 2026 covered 97 countries, with its total seizures representing a small portion of the estimated worldwide losses due to fraud.

Social engineering attacks tend to be simple in their approach, often relying on convincing scripts and a willing target rather than complex malware or zero-day exploits.

Interpol has not announced a specific schedule for follow-up operations, but the pattern of large, coordinated takedowns suggests that similar efforts will continue regularly.

Users can stay informed through Interpol's official announcements about upcoming operations and awareness campaigns. For individuals, staying cautious about unsolicited messages, verifying information through independent channels, and delaying financial responses to urgent requests remains the most effective defense.

Financial institutions and payment services are increasingly using fraud detection tools, but the main responsibility for avoiding social engineering scams still falls on the user.

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This change will apply to the Switch 2 itself, as well as Joy-Con controllers, the Pro Controller, and Nintendo Switch Online retro controllers.

The original Switch will cease shipping to Europe after February 2027, nearly reaching its 10th anniversary. Nintendo will continue to supply the original Switch in other regions. According to Nintendo, these updates will not significantly affect functionality or battery life.

Why Switch 2 Batteries Are Changing in Europe

The battery update is driven by EU regulations set to take effect next year. These regulations aim to cut electronic waste by making sure dead batteries don't automatically send electronics to landfills. Devices sold in the EU will need to meet requirements for removing and replacing batteries.

Nintendo confirmed the changes following an initial report from Nikkei in March 2026. The company explained the update on its UK support site earlier this week.

The affected products will feature batteries that are easier to remove and replace. They will weigh a few grams more than current models because of the new battery configuration. The devices will retain the same functionality as current units and are expected to have comparable battery life.

These updates could open up a market for high-capacity third-party batteries. Users who have kept a Switch 2 for years might be able to install larger replacements once the original battery starts to age.

Original Switch Ending in Europe and Rumored Screen Upgrade

Nintendo will not update the original Switch to meet the new EU battery regulations. The company plans to stop shipping the original Switch to European retailers after February 2027, around the time of the console's 10th anniversary. However, Nintendo confirmed to IGN that it will continue to ship the original Switch in other regions.

For European users considering a purchase of the original Switch, the main practical points are:

• Buy before February 2027 if you prefer the original model over the Switch 2.
• Monitor retailer stock levels as the discontinuation date approaches, since remaining inventory may become limited.
• Consider the Switch OLED or other available variants in the near term.
• After February 2027, if the original Switch is still needed, look to secondary markets or import channels.

Users outside Europe will not see any changes in shipment plans.

There have been rumors since early this year that Nintendo may update the Switch 2's display to address complaints about screen response time. These reports gained support when Nintendo Patent Watch shared images from a Chinese reseller showing a panel consistent with the Switch 2's specifications, but with significantly different circuits.

Sources suggest the new screen might come from Sharp rather than Innolux, which originally supplied panels for the launch units. Digital Foundry also reported spotting Switch 2 kiosk units in Japan with improved image quality.

Nintendo has not confirmed any screen upgrade or announced a timeline for a global rollout. While it would be logical to ship updated screens alongside the new battery changes in Europe, the company has not publicly tied these two updates together.

What Switch Buyers Should Know and When Changes Arrive

For prospective Switch 2 buyers in Europe:

• Waiting for units with the new battery configuration may extend the device's service life.
• Users hoping for the rumored screen upgrade should wait for official confirmation from Nintendo before making a purchase decision based on speculation.
• A $50 price increase, confirmed for September, will apply to Switch 2 units in the United States, with similar regional adjustments likely.
• For potential buyers in other regions:
• Replacing the battery will remain more challenging on units shipped outside Europe unless Nintendo implements the change globally.
• The rumored screen upgrade has not been confirmed for any market.
• The original Switch remains available, though it may be discontinued elsewhere in the future.
• Nintendo has so far avoided significant price hikes affecting Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox, and Apple devices. However, the company has announced that the Switch 2 price will increase by $50 in September. Analysts expect further increases as the ongoing memory pricing crisis impacts device manufacturers.
• The update regarding battery replacement is part of a broader industry shift driven by European Union regulations aimed at reducing electronic waste. Apple has previously modified iPhone battery replacement procedures for European markets, and other manufacturers are expected to follow suit.
• Switch 2 consoles with the new battery configuration are expected to start shipping to Europe from fall 2026. Nintendo has not specified an exact date within that window.
• The original Switch will cease shipping to Europe after February 2027. Users should monitor Nintendo's regional support sites and retailer channels for specific rollout dates.
• The rumored screen upgrade remains unconfirmed. Those interested in a potential display improvement should await official announcements from Nintendo rather than relying on current rumors.

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According to Wired, users can share these images via chat, Stories, or the Instagram feed. All public Instagram profiles are automatically enrolled in this feature.

Disabling it requires manually turning it off in Instagram's settings, as the option is not enabled by default.

How Meta’s Muse Image Uses Public Instagram Profiles

Meta AI users can now request images featuring the likeness of a specific public Instagram profile. The system creates an image based on recent photos from that profile, which can then be shared through Meta AI chat, And Instagram Stories, or the Instagram feed.

Users testing this feature have reported that it works with everyday personal profiles, not just public figures. In one example, an image showing two friends having coffee was generated in less than a minute using photos from both users' public profiles.

Private Instagram profiles are not included in this feature. Any attempt to generate an image that includes someone with a private profile will fail.

Some celebrity profiles are also blocked, likely due to rights considerations. For instance, an attempt to create a fight scene featuring Robert Downey Jr. was rejected by the system.

Google offers a similar feature for image generation, but with two main restrictions. It only works for the user's own likeness, and users must go through an approval process before the feature is enabled. In contrast,

Meta's system does not have these guardrails for personal public profiles. The company reasons that publicly posted content is available for use on its AI platform. As a result, the system allows for easier generation of images using another person's likeness on a larger scale.

Privacy Concerns, Opt-Out Steps, and Who Is Affected

The default opt-in setting raises privacy concerns:

• Users with public Instagram profiles were not explicitly asked for permission before their accounts became accessible to Meta AI.
• The generated images can depict users in situations they did not agree to share.
• The default also normalizes the use of user photos for AI training and image creation without direct consent.
• Users may only find out they were used in an image if they see it shared publicly or in their Instagram feed.

Those worried about how their likeness is used should note that even after disabling the setting, images generated before the change could still be in circulation.

For Instagram users with public profiles who want to stop Meta AI from using their likeness for image generation, the steps are: open the Instagram app on iPhone or Android, go to your profile, tap the three-lined menu in the top-right corner, select Sharing and Reuse, then find the section labeled "Allow people to reuse your content on Instagram and with AI features at Meta." From there, disable Posts and Reels.

Testing has shown that turning off this setting effectively prevents Meta AI from generating images with your profile. Attempts to create such images will be refused with a message indicating the system does not have the rights.

Users with private profiles are already excluded from this feature and do not need to change any settings. However, private accounts are not completely protected, as photos shared with mutual followers or reposted publicly can still be used by others in their own image generation workflows.

What Users Should Consider and Where the Feature Is Available

Beyond the specific Instagram opt-out, users should consider broader steps for controlling how their likeness is used online. Switching to a private Instagram profile may be preferable if controlling content takes priority over maintaining public visibility.

It's also advisable to review settings on other Meta platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Threads for similar AI-related opt-outs. Users should stay informed about updates from Meta regarding how AI features might access data across the Meta ecosystem.

It's important to remember that Meta's terms of service grant the company broad rights over content posted publicly. Even users who do not use Meta's AI features are affected by the default opt-in setting, which concerns whether others can generate images using the profile, not whether the profile owner opts into Meta AI.

The Muse Image model and its integration with Instagram are currently available for Meta AI users, with no announced regional restrictions. The opt-out option can be accessed globally through the Sharing and Reuse menu on Instagram.

Meta has not indicated whether the default opt-in policy will change in response to privacy concerns. Users interested in updates should monitor Instagram's official channels and Meta's Newsroom.

Those who are concerned about the current default can disable the setting immediately to prevent their profile from being used in Meta AI image generation.

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The memo compares the new model to Anthropic's Opus 4.8 and OpenAI's GPT-5.5. It also notes that the launch was delayed earlier this week to improve the model's efficiency.

This marks the first major product under Elon Musk's new SpaceXAI name, which was announced Monday when Musk integrated xAI into SpaceX.

Neither SpaceXAI nor Cursor have publicly named the model. Cursor declined to comment, and SpaceXAI did not respond to a request for comment.

What SpaceXAI and Cursor Are Launching

According to the internal memo cited by The Information, SpaceXAI and Cursor plan to release the model as soon as Wednesday. The memo describes:

• A jointly developed model designed to process information quickly
• Competitive positioning against Anthropic's Opus 4.8 and OpenAI's GPT-5.5
• A launch date that was pushed back earlier in the week to improve efficiency

The memo does not name the model. Musk has previously referred to an unreleased Grok model in beta. Cursor also operates its own coding model called Composer. Whether the joint model uses one of those names or an entirely new brand has not been disclosed.

The joint launch reflects months of collaboration between the two companies. Musk stated last month that SpaceX and Tesla staff had tested the joint model.

Cursor Chief Executive Michael Truell told customers his firm had trained a model from scratch on Colossus, xAI's supercomputer. Truell said the model would take on Anthropic and OpenAI directly.

The two companies are also in the process of a $60 billion all-stock acquisition, with SpaceX purchasing Cursor. The deal was previously announced but has not yet closed.

The SpaceXAI Rebrand, Investment, and Competitive Context

The launch marks the first major product release under the new SpaceXAI name. Musk announced on Monday that xAI would be integrated into SpaceX and rebranded as SpaceXAI.

He had indicated this plan in May, saying that xAI would no longer operate as a separate company. This change follows the merger of xAI and SpaceX five months ago.

Musk has described a long-term vision that involves solar-powered data centers in orbit, though this is still years away. In the meantime, Cursor's tools provide the company with an immediate product portfolio to sell.

Last year, SpaceX invested $12.7 billion in AI, more than three times its space exploration spending. This level of investment gives SpaceXAI significant resources to compete with companies like Anthropic and OpenAI on model performance.

Launching a model competitive with Opus 4.8 or GPT-5.5 remains a complex technical challenge. Both Anthropic and OpenAI have refined their leading models over multiple releases, and independent benchmarks will determine whether the SpaceXAI-Cursor model meets expectations.

OpenAI recently received approval for a broader rollout of GPT-5.6 after initial restrictions by the US government limited access to approved partners.

Meanwhile, Anthropic launched Claude Sonnet 5, priced at $2 per million input tokens and $10 per million output tokens through August 31, 2026, offering a cost-effective alternative to Opus 4.8. Sonnet 5 provides performance close to Opus at a lower cost. Both companies continue to update their models rapidly.

What Users Should Watch For and Availability

For users assessing AI coding tools, the upcoming SpaceXAI-Cursor launch could impact several aspects. It may influence which model powers Cursor's coding assistant by default, alter the pricing structure for Cursor subscribers, and affect the availability of the joint model through APIs or standalone products.

Additionally, it could impact how the model integrates with SpaceXAI's other AI projects. Subscribers should stay alert to official announcements from the company regarding which models will be available and whether there will be any changes in pricing.

For developers comparing AI coding platforms, the launch introduces a new option alongside existing tools such as Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, and Codex. The release might happen as soon as Wednesday, but SpaceXAI and Cursor have not confirmed a specific date or product name.

Users can monitor official channels for updates, including SpaceXAI and Cursor’s announcement pages, Cursor's product release notes, and Musk's X account for public statements.

Claims that the new model competes directly with Opus 4.8 and GPT-5.5 are still early and should be viewed as marketing statements.

Independent benchmarks, developer testing, and real-world performance will ultimately determine whether the launch meets its intended positioning. Users should consider initial launch materials as preliminary until third-party evaluations become available.

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This feature comes enabled by default in the latest versions of DuckDuckGo for iOS, Mac, and Windows. Android users can turn it on manually through Settings, Ad Blocking.

The system uses community-maintained filter lists from uBlock Origin, along with DuckDuckGo's own compatibility rules. This ad blocking feature is different from Duck Player, DuckDuckGo's embedded YouTube player. Both options can be used simultaneously.

What DuckDuckGo’s YouTube Ad Blocking Does

According to DuckDuckGo's announcement, their YouTube ad blocker targets pre-roll ads that appear before videos, mid-roll ads during playback, and standard skippable and unskippable video ads on the YouTube website.

DuckDuckGo states that the feature preserves the usual YouTube experience, including watch history, video position saving in playlists, and other account features that require login.

The company also mentioned that using the ad blocker might cause slightly longer buffering times, but once a video starts playing, the experience should remain smooth.

Unlike browsers that come with fully built-in ad-blocking engines, DuckDuckGo's approach relies on filter lists from uBlock Origin maintained by the community, along with additional rules developed by DuckDuckGo and regular updates to keep up with YouTube’s changing ad delivery methods.

Because YouTube often updates how it serves ads, the system may periodically stop working until the filter rules are updated, which is similar to what other browser-based YouTube ad blockers experience.

Duck Player, Setup Steps, and Platform Support

Duck Player is DuckDuckGo's embedded YouTube player that uses YouTube's strictest privacy settings to prevent tracking cookies and personalized ads. It has been available for some time and remains separate from the new ad-blocking feature.

Both features can be used together:

• Duck Player offers enhanced privacy protections when watching YouTube videos through the embedded player.-
• YouTube Ad Blocking removes ads when browsing the site directly.

Users seeking maximum protection can enable both features, combining privacy safeguards with ad removal.

For iOS, Mac, and Windows users:

The feature comes enabled by default in the latest DuckDuckGo browser update. Users on older versions should update the app via the App Store on iOS or Mac, or through the browser's built-in updater on Windows.

Android users:

1. Open the DuckDuckGo browser
2. Tap the three-dot menu
3. Go to Settings
4. Tap on Ad Blocking
5. Enable YouTube Ad Blocking

Anyone can submit anonymous feedback about the feature through the browser's options menu. As the feature is new, user testing and feedback are important for DuckDuckGo to improve the filter rules and resolve compatibility issues.

Limitations, Browser Comparisons, and Availability

DuckDuckGo has acknowledged a few important caveats:

• Buffering times might be slightly longer at the start, and
• YouTube's new ad delivery changes could cause temporary disruptions until filter lists are updated.
• The feature is new and may not be stable in all cases.
• Some ad types or newly introduced formats might bypass filters until rules catch up.

Users experiencing issues can submit feedback directly through the browser options menu, which helps DuckDuckGo prioritize fixes.

DuckDuckGo now joins Brave and Opera, which both include built-in ad and tracker blockers capable of blocking most YouTube ads without the need for third-party extensions.

Firefox continues to support uBlock Origin as an extension, while Chrome has restricted extension-based ad blockers due to the transition to Manifest V3.

For users choosing a browser based on YouTube ad blocking,

• DuckDuckGo has a new default setting on iOS, Mac, and Windows, with manual setup on Android.
• Brave has long offered built-in ad blocking,
• Opera provides a built-in ad blocker across platforms, and
• Firefox works with the uBlock Origin extension.
• Chrome has limited extension-based blocking under Manifest V3.

YouTube's ads have become more frequent, longer, and sometimes unskippable in recent years. Subscribing to YouTube Premium removes ads but costs $15.99 per month in the US after a recent price increase. Many free users looking to avoid ads have turned to browser-based blockers, third-party clients, or alternative players.

YouTube has occasionally pushed back against ad blockers by issuing warnings or limiting playback for users who block ads. The future success of DuckDuckGo's YouTube Ad Blocking will depend on how the company responds to YouTube's countermeasures.

The latest DuckDuckGo browser releases on iOS, Mac, Windows, and Android now include YouTube Ad Blocking. Users can update through their platform's app store or the browser's built-in updater.

Those testing the feature should be aware that its effectiveness may vary as YouTube adjusts its ad delivery. DuckDuckGo has committed to updating its filter rules as needed.

The company has not specified whether YouTube Ad Blocking will be available on DuckDuckGo's mobile Linux version or other platforms.

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It also adds new Armory weapon and sticker collections. After the IEM Cologne 2026 Major, the update features five community maps, engine improvements, and various fixes. Cache has now replaced Overpass in the Active Duty rotation.

Cache Returns to Active Duty and C4 Damage Changes

Cache has returned to the competitive Counter-Strike lineup after being reintroduced into CS2 earlier this year. Players have had the opportunity to practice the map in both casual and competitive modes, and it is now part of the Premier rotation.

Overpass has been removed from the Active Duty pool. The current Active Duty map pool now includes Cache along with the seven other maps used for competitive play.

The main gameplay change in Season 5 is a complete overhaul of how C4 bomb explosion damage is calculated. Instead of applying damage instantly across the entire blast radius, the explosion now spreads as a shockwave from the bomb site.

Key details of this change include:

• Damage values are precomputed through simulation and embedded directly into each map.
• The shockwave expands quickly from the center of the blast rather than applying damage immediately.
• The wave dissipates around corners and does not pass through walls.
• Players farther away have a better chance to survive by running away.
• A preview appears on the player's health bar, showing how they would fare if the bomb went off.

This health bar preview is the most significant change for competitive play. Previously, players had to rely on their knowledge of the game to estimate whether they would survive a bomb explosion.

Even professional players sometimes misjudged, costing rounds for themselves and their teams. The new preview allows players to confirm their safety before making decisions to hold positions or attempt saves.

New Armory Collections and Five Community Maps

Valve has added the Arabesque and Spy Tech weapon collections to the CS2 Armory. Both collections were developed through Valve's 2025 Call to Arm-ory community design initiative.

• Arabesque features intricate designs and gold textures, evoking royalty themes.
• Spy Tech offers modern, line-based technological designs.

Two new sticker collections have also been introduced:

• Fruits and Vegetables, and
• Auto Racing.

The following collections have been rotated out of the Armory:

• Train 2025 and Sport and Field weapon collections, as well as
• Sugarface 2 and Elemental Craft sticker collections.

Season 5 introduces five community-created maps to CS2, available across multiple game modes:

• Boulder,
• Fachwerk, and
• Shelter are playable in Competitive, Casual, and Deathmatch modes, while
• Debris and
• El Dorado are available in Wingman mode.

These new maps replace Warden, Stronghold, Alpine, and Sanctum, which have been removed from all game modes.

Engine Update, Performance Gains, and What Players Should Do

Valve has updated CS2 to the latest version of Source 2. The patch notes did not specify any performance or visual enhancements resulting from the engine update.

Additional improvements include better performance when the Scoreboard is displayed using the Tab key, various visual bug fixes, and changes to clipping across all maps.

The performance boost for the Scoreboard is especially useful for solo queue players who frequently check their kill-death ratio during matches.

For CS2 players preparing for Season 5, start by restarting Steam to ensure the update downloads properly:

1. Review cache callouts and strategies if you're returning to the map after a break.
2. Practice with the new C4 explosion mechanics in casual or training modes before jumping into Premier.
3. Check the Armory to view the Arabesque and Spy Tech collections.
4. Try the new community maps in Competitive or Wingman queues. If you want to trade weapon skins from rotating collections, verify their current values beforehand, as demand can shift when collections leave the Armory.

The Counter-Strike 2 Season 5 update is now live on Steam. Players with the game installed will receive the update automatically. Those who haven't launched CS2 recently will need to let the update download fully before they can start matchmaking.

Valve hasn't announced any changes to the map pool or major adjustments beyond what is listed in the Season 5 patch notes.

Additional updates may be released later to fix bugs or balance issues discovered during the season. Players can keep an eye on the official Counter-Strike blog for any future updates.

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The fix is included in update KB5095093, which contains builds 26200.8737 and 26100.8737. Users can install this update through the optional updates section of Windows Update or wait for it to be included in the July 2026 Patch Tuesday rollout.

The issue was documented by Windows Latest. Microsoft's release notes for KB5095093 state that the update "improves disk space usage for the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file.

What Is Causing The Windows 11 Storage Bug

The Capability Access Manager is a component of Windows 11 responsible for app permissions. It controls access to privacy-sensitive features such as the camera, microphone, location, contacts, and screen capture, and logs when apps request or use these capabilities.

The issue isn’t with the permission system itself. Instead, it relates to the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, which is the write-ahead log for the database. Normally, this log file grows during regular use but should be merged or compacted back into the main database.

On affected systems, however, the WAL file continues to grow without being compacted. Users have reported the file reaching sizes of about 70GB to 200GB in many cases, around 500GB in some, and approximately 513GB on one system verified through TreeSize.

To determine if a system is affected by this bug, you can use one of these methods:

Method 1: Check Storage Settings: Open Settings and navigate to System, then Storage. Select Show more categories. Look at the size shown for System and reserved, or specifically for System files. If System files are showing hundreds of gigabytes, the system is likely impacted.

Method 2: Use Robocopy for Direct Verification: If System and reserved storage seem high but not excessively so, you can check the file directly. Open an elevated Command Prompt and run a command listing files in the relevant folder. This command does not copy or delete files. Look for CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal in the output.

If the file is only a few megabytes, the system is probably okay. If it is several gigabytes and continues to grow, the bug may be active.

How To Check If Your PC Is Affected

The fix is included in KB5095093, which contains build 26200.8737 for Windows 11 25H2 and 26100.8737 for Windows 11 24H2. To install the update:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Windows Update,
3. Choose Advanced options,
4. Then select Optional updates
5. Look for KB5095093 and follow the prompts to install it.
6. Restart your device if needed.

Users who prefer to wait can receive the update as part of the July 2026 Patch Tuesday cumulative update, which is scheduled for rollout on July 8. This version will install automatically for those with standard Windows Update settings.

After installing the fix, the WAL file should be compacted or return to its normal behavior. A system restart might be necessary for the changes to take effect.

Microsoft has confirmed the fix and states that KB5095093 improves disk space usage associated with the affected file. However, the company has not publicly explained why some Windows 11 systems allowed the file to grow to hundreds of gigabytes initially.

Affected users may want to take a few steps: first, save a copy of the current file size before installing the update in case Microsoft requests diagnostic data.

After applying the update, monitor system storage to verify the WAL file returns to its normal size. Users can also report the issue through the Feedback Hub to help Microsoft track affected systems.

How To Fix The Capability Access Manager Log Issue

For users with SSDs, especially those with lower capacities such as 512GB or 1TB, a WAL file that takes up hundreds of gigabytes can cause the system to run dangerously low on free space.

This can lead to several issues: applications failing to install or update, Windows Update not completing due to lack of space, frequent temporary file cleanup, and backup or restore operations failing.

Users experiencing these symptoms without an obvious cause should check specifically for the CapabilityAccessManager.db-wal file, as typical storage cleanup tools may not remove it.

KB5095093 is now available through the Optional updates section of Windows Update. It is expected to be more widely rolled out with the July 8, 2026 Patch Tuesday cumulative update. The fix applies to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2.

Microsoft has not indicated whether Windows 11 26H1 Insider builds are affected. Users on Insider channels should watch for similar fixes in upcoming Insider flight releases.

Anyone noticing hundreds of gigabytes of unexplained storage use should install the update as soon as possible. The bug does not impact the security or core functionality of the permission system itself, but the excessive file size can significantly reduce available storage on affected systems.

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The company has added Claude Code to its internal list of high-risk software and is advising employees to switch to Qoder, its own coding platform.

Anthropic engineer Thariq Shihipar confirmed on X that the tracking is part of an experiment launched in March, describing it as a measure to prevent account abuse and model distillation. The tracking mechanism has been active since April.

Why Alibaba Banned Claude Code

In late June, a developer analyzing Claude Code discovered hidden markers that check the system timezone, scan proxy URLs against Chinese domains and AI labs, and send signals within system prompts back to Anthropic's servers.

Because Claude Code needs deep access to the local file system to modify and run code, these tracking mechanisms raised concerns about transparency and cross-border data compliance within the developer community.

Chinese cybersecurity firm Huorong Security noted that such mechanisms pose operational and legal risks for companies operating in China and Hong Kong.

Thariq Shihipar, an engineer at Anthropic, explained on X that this tracking was part of an experiment launched in March 2026. He stated that the system was designed to prevent account abuse from unauthorized resellers and to protect Anthropic's models from distillation.

Distillation is a process where outputs from a powerful AI model are used to train a smaller, less costly one. Anthropic has been actively against distillation, arguing it threatens the business models of frontier AI companies.

In June, Anthropic briefed the US Senate Banking Committee that entities linked to Alibaba's Qwen AI lab had conducted a large-scale distillation campaign against Claude using thousands of fraudulent accounts. Alibaba has denied these allegations.

Compliance Concerns for Financial Sectors and What This Means for Users in China

The tracking practices are especially significant for financial companies and institutions operating in Hong Kong and mainland China. In both regions, regulators strictly enforce data sovereignty rules, which makes hidden data collection and tracking a serious compliance concern.

Companies that need to control what data leaves their local systems may face legal risks if they use undisclosed tracking mechanisms, even if the software they use provides useful features. The Alibaba ban illustrates this risk assessment on a larger scale.

For developers and organizations using Claude Code in China or Hong Kong, this discovery raises several practical questions:

1. Does current use of Claude Code comply with internal data sovereignty policies and local laws?
2. What information is being sent to Anthropic's servers during normal operation?
3. Is the purpose of the tracking, as stated by Anthropic, acceptable within the organization's risk limits?
4. Are there domestic alternatives, such as Alibaba's Qoder, or tools developed by DeepSeek, Qwen, and other Chinese AI providers?
5. Outside China, users are less directly affected by the ban but should be aware that similar checks could be part of global systems, particularly those used by Anthropic for abuse detection.

Broader Shift Away From US AI Tools And What Comes Next

The controversy has accelerated a broader effort by Chinese tech companies to reduce dependence on American AI software. More firms are now viewing foreign tools as carrying unpredictable regulatory and access risks.

Lizzi Lee, a fellow at the Asia Society Policy Institute's Centre for China Analysis, pointed out that the conflict highlights how technology competition has shifted towards access control and sovereignty.

She explained: "If a U.S. AI coding tool can detect Chinese usage or proxy access, it is understandable that major Chinese tech companies would prefer not to have their employees use it internally."

This restriction provides Alibaba with additional reasons to promote its own Qwen models across different business units. By limiting external tools, the company is strengthening its domestic AI ecosystem and encouraging staff to adopt proprietary platforms.

Alibaba's decision reflects a wider trend of restricting AI tools that cross national borders. Recently, Anthropic was ordered by the U.S. government to suspend access to Fable 5 and Mythos 5 for foreign nationals; the restrictions were later eased after negotiations with the Commerce Department.

OpenAI also delayed the public launch of GPT-5.6 at the request of U.S. authorities. Now, a large Chinese tech firm is limiting Anthropic's coding tool for its employees due to concerns over sovereignty and tracking.

This pattern shows that AI companies operating globally face increasing pressure from governments and enterprise clients to disclose tracking mechanisms, control data flows, and provide options that meet local compliance standards.

The Alibaba ban takes effect on July 10, 2026. Anthropic has not yet said whether it will disable, fully disclose, or modify its tracking features in response. Users in China should watch for further statements from Anthropic and guidance from local regulators on permissible data collection practices for AI development tools.

Users can stay informed by monitoring Anthropic's status page and official communications for updates on the future of the tracking mechanism. Chinese developers can continue to access Claude Code through personal accounts, though restrictions imposed by Alibaba limit use within the company.

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The event is expected to unveil the Pixel 11 series along with the Pixel Watch 5 series. The invitation refers to the "next generation of Pixel" rather than explicitly mentioning the Pixel 11.

This event will take place one week earlier than the launch of the Pixel 10 last year. The start time at 6 p.m. ET is later than Google's previous Made by Google events, which typically began at 1 p.m. ET.

What Google Has Confirmed About The August 12 Event

Google's press invites confirm the upcoming product launch event scheduled for Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 6 p.m. ET in New York.

The invite features a tagline: "next generation of Pixel" and shows a gold-finish phone with a horizontal camera visor, indicating that a Pixel device will be introduced. Beyond this visual cue, the invitation does not specify any particular model names, features, or pricing details.

Based on Google's typical product release cycle and the content of the invite, expected announcements include:

• The Pixel 11 series (comprising the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, and Pixel 11 Pro XL), the
• The Pixel 11 Pro Fold, and the
• The Pixel Watch 5 series.

Google has not officially confirmed the exact lineup or specific product names. Historical patterns suggest there could also be additional Pixel-branded accessories and possible updates to Nest hardware.

What To Expect From Pixel 11 And Pixel Watch 5

Leaked reports and news ahead of the event suggest the Pixel 11 series will start with 256GB of storage instead of 128GB and be released at a higher price than the Pixel 10 series.

The series is also expected to include the Pixel Glow indicator light, a feature previously found in Google products like the Googlebook and Google Home Speaker.

The increased storage capacity and price hike reflect wider industry trends, with companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, and Valve raising device or console prices recently due to rising memory costs. In particular, Xbox Series consoles are set to see an price increase of at least $100 starting August 1.

Google has not confirmed specific details about pricing, storage options, or the Pixel Glow feature for the Pixel 11. The company typically streams its Made by Google events through its official website, the Google Store, and YouTube channel.

The upcoming event is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET on August 12. Viewers in other time zones should check their local times, which are approximately 3 p.m. PT, 11 p.m. UK, and midnight CEST. Google has not yet shared a direct link to the stream.

What Pixel Buyers Should Know Before The Launch

For users planning to buy a Pixel in the next few months, there are a few practical steps to consider before the August 12 announcement. It’s advisable to wait for the official reveal before making a decision on a Pixel 10, as Google often offers trade-in deals at launch that could apply to older Pixels.

Reviewing storage needs is also important, given reports indicating a 256GB starting point for the Pixel 11. Additionally, keep an eye out for pre-order incentives, which in the past have included accessory bundles or Google Store credits. It’s also worth checking the release date and availability window for the Pixel 11 lineup after the event.

For those already using a Pixel 10, stay updated on which features will be available for older models through Feature Drops. The event is scheduled for August 12, but Google has not yet shared details about the format, product lineup, or availability timeline.

Users can follow Google's official channels for updates in the coming weeks. The Pixel 11 series and Pixel Watch 5 will be officially announced at the event.

While specifications, features, pricing, and release dates are not yet confirmed, they should be viewed as unconfirmed leaks until Google provides official information.

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The studio will continue to develop and fund Project Fantasy independently. IO Interactive also confirmed it is closing its Istanbul studio, which will result in 40 job losses.

This announcement comes as part of a broader Xbox restructuring that includes 1,600 layoffs immediately and up to 3,200 total cuts through fiscal year 2027. IO Interactive is best known for the Hitman series and 007: First Light, the studio's fastest-selling game.

What IO Interactive Regained With Project Fantasy

The studio announced on X that, following the end of its external finance partnership for Project Fantasy, IOI now owns full rights to the project and its intellectual property. The company said it will continue to develop and fund the project independently alongside its other initiatives.

Holding complete IP ownership is an important point because it gives IO Interactive control over the project's direction, scope, and timeline without external constraints.

Studios that lose publisher backing often struggle to maintain ongoing development, but IO Interactive's success with 007: First Light and its established Hitman revenue provide a stable financial base to continue progress.

In the same statement, IO Interactive confirmed it closed its Istanbul studio. The company explained, “We had to find a new balance for the long-term future of the studio, focused on the success of our main internal core titles.

This has meant the closure of our Istanbul studio and starting a process to part ways with colleagues. These are tough but necessary decisions to secure the long-term future of IO Interactive and give Project Fantasy the best possible foundation to succeed under our own passion and direction.”

The closure will result in the loss of 40 jobs at the Istanbul location. IO Interactive did not specify details about severance, support for affected employees, or whether any roles based in Istanbul will be preserved through remote work.

Why IO Interactive Is Closing Its Istanbul Studio

Xbox has cut funding for Project Fantasy as part of a larger restructuring announced last week. The Xbox changes include 1,600 immediate layoffs across the gaming division and a total headcount reduction of about 3,200 through July 2027.

The company is also spinning off several studios, including Compulsion Games, Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and Undead Labs.  Additionally, there have been cuts at Bethesda, ZeniMax, id Software, Activision, Obsidian, and the Accessibility Team.

The focus is shifting toward core franchises such as Fallout, Elder Scrolls, Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein.

Project Fantasy was among several externally funded projects affected by the restructuring. Reports indicate that Xbox also withdrew funding from 1666: Amsterdam earlier this year.

Despite the funding removal, Project Fantasy remains under IO Interactive's ownership, meaning development continues under their control. The intellectual property rights, characters, and world-building elements stay with the studio.

The project now competes for internal resources alongside other IO projects like updates for 007: First Light, Hitman content, and more. The timeline for release may be extended, reflecting the shift from a publisher-funded model to a self-funded one.

For players, the impact in the short term should be limited. Little is publicly known about Project Fantasy beyond its existence as an IP; no release date, platforms, or gameplay details have been shared.

How Xbox’s Restructuring Affects Project Fantasy

The Xbox restructuring is having noticeable effects across the industry. Studios that previously received funding from Xbox are being spun off, sold, or losing external support. This pattern suggests a change in how Xbox invests in third-party development, now focusing more on internal projects rather than external partnerships.

Whether ending Project Fantasy funding is financially wise will depend on how Xbox’s internal lineup performs compared to the projects it has chosen not to support further. IO Interactive's ongoing work on Project Fantasy will serve as one measure of the trade-offs involved.

Project Fantasy is still in development at IO Interactive, with no announced platforms, release date, or gameplay details. Fans can check IO Interactive's official channels for future updates.

The closure of the Istanbul studio is currently underway. IO Interactive has not provided a specific timeline for completing this process or details on how it might affect ongoing projects that the studio was working on.

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It consists of three stages: a Group Stage from July 7 to 11, a Survival Stage on July 14 and 15, and the Playoffs from July 16 to 19. Team Spirit is returning as the defending champion.

Twelve teams received direct invitations based on their rankings in the ESL Pro Tour Leaderboard, while 11 teams qualified through regional qualifiers. As the reigning champions, Team Spirit secured their spot for the tournament.

How The Dota 2 Esports World Cup 2026 Format Works

The tournament is structured in three stages:

• The group stage features 24 teams divided into four groups of six. They compete in a round-robin format, with each series consisting of two games. The top team from each group advances directly to the playoffs.
• In the survival stage, the second, third, and fourth-place teams from each group enter single-elimination brackets. Fourth-place teams face third-place teams, with the winners then competing against second-place teams in best-of-three matches.
• The playoffs bring together the four winners from the survival stage and the four group winners in a single-elimination bracket. All playoff matches are played as best-of-three, except for the grand final, which is a best-of-five.

At the end of the group stage, the bottom two teams from each group are eliminated.

The $2 million prize pool is divided among the top placements as follows: the champion receives $750,000 and 1,000 Club Points. The second-place finisher gets $340,000 and 750 Club Points. The third-place winner earns $200,000 and 500 Club Points.

Those placing fourth receive $120,000 and 300 Club Points. Participants finishing fifth through eighth each get $70,000 and 200 Club Points.

Those in ninth through twelfth place earn $40,000 each. Thirteenth through sixteenth place each receive $20,000, while those finishing seventeenth through twentieth get $10,000 each. The twenty-first to twenty-fourth places each receive $7,500.

Which Teams Are Playing And When Matches Begin

Times listed in CEST.

July 7:

• Group A: Team Falcons vs. BB Team, GamerLegion vs. Poor Rangers, Xtreme Gaming vs. Rune Eaters (11am)
• Group B: Team Liquid vs. PlayTime, Nigma Galaxy vs. L1GA Team, Aurora vs. Level UP (1:30pm)
• Group C: Team Spirit vs. MOUZ, REKONIX vs. Vici Gaming, PVISION vs. Team Nemesis (4pm)
• Group D: Team Yandex vs. OG, Virtus.pro vs. LGD Gaming, 1w Team vs. IC x Insanity (6:30pm)

July 8 through 11: Each group plays the remaining round-robin matches at the same time slots (11am, 1:30pm, 4pm, and 6:30pm CEST).

Key matchups later in the Group Stage include Team Spirit vs. PVISION on July 11, Team Falcons vs. Xtreme Gaming on July 11, and Team Liquid vs. Aurora on July 11.

The 24 teams competing and their qualification routes include direct invitations from the EPT leaderboard, which features teams such as 1w Team, PVISION, Aurora Gaming, Xtreme Gaming, Team Yandex, Team Falcons, Team Liquid, BB Team, MOUZ, PlayTime, OG, and Virtus.pro. The defending champion is Team Spirit.

Regional qualifiers have also determined several spots:

• Western Europe's qualifiers are LGD Gaming and Rune Eaters;
• Eastern Europe's are Level UP, Poor Rangers, L1GA Team, and IC x Insanity;
• China's representative is Vici Gaming;
• Southeast Asia's qualifier is REKONIX;
• North America is represented by GamerLegion;
• South America by Team Nemesis; and Nigma Galaxy qualified from MESWA.

Notable rosters include Team Spirit, with players such as Yatoro, Larl, and Collapse; Team Falcons, featuring skiter, Malr1ne, ATF, Cr1t-, and Sneyking; and 1w Team, consisting of Pure, bzm, 33, Ari, and Whitemon. The latter team acquired the roster of Tundra Esports.

Who The Main Contenders Are And How To Watch

Team Spirit is back to defend its title against a tough lineup. Team Falcons finished as the runner-up in the 2025 event and is considered a strong contender.

Other teams showing recent form include 1w Team, PVISION, Xtreme Gaming, and Team Liquid. Several of these teams are also aiming to qualify for Dota 2 The International 2026, which adds significance to this tournament as a lead-up event for TI15.

Live matches are available on the Esports World Cup's official broadcast channels:

• Twitch (main channel)
• Twitch (secondary channel)
• YouTube

The tournament takes place from July 7 to July 19. Results and standings from the group stage will be updated as matches finish. The winner will be decided in the grand final on July 19 in Paris.

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The feature appears under Advanced Options in WinRE and is part of the Experimental 25H2 channel.

Microsoft has not officially announced Cloud Rebuild, and it is not currently available in public or beta versions of Windows 11. The code refers to the internal feature name as Servicing_DeviceRebuild_WinREUX.

What Cloud Rebuild Could Do In Windows 11

Cloud Rebuild would allow users to restore Windows 11 by downloading a fresh copy of the operating system from Microsoft's servers, similar to the existing cloud download reset option.

This approach guarantees the reinstalled version is the latest and most secure build, rather than a locally stored older image. Based on the strings identified so far, Cloud Rebuild appears not to preserve user files or applications during the restoration.

Files and installed apps seem to be wiped as part of the process, requiring users to restore them from a separate backup. Microsoft has not yet published official documentation for Cloud Rebuild, so the exact details of how it will work remain uncertain until the feature is officially announced.

PureInfoTech points out that internal links related to Cloud Rebuild reference support pages for Quick Machine Recovery.

Microsoft has not officially confirmed this connection, but the discovery indicates that Cloud Rebuild might become part of the automated recovery process instead of a manual reset option.

If this connection is correct, the recovery process could work as follows:

• Windows 11 detects that a device can no longer boot properly.
• The system first attempts to repair the installation using Quick Machine Recovery.
• If those repairs fail, Windows Recovery Environment offers Cloud Rebuild as the next option.
• Cloud Rebuild then downloads a fresh image from Microsoft's servers and reinstalls the operating system without the need for installation media or manual intervention.

This approach could reduce the reliance on USB installation media in cases where a device cannot boot into Windows.

When Cloud Rebuild Might Become Available

The Cloud Rebuild feature is visible in the Experimental 25H2 channel of the Windows Insider Program. Currently, it doesn't function in a user-facing mode, and Microsoft has not announced when or if it will move to Beta, Release Preview, or become generally available.

Users running the standard Windows 11 release should not expect to see Cloud Rebuild anytime soon. Insiders enrolled in the Experimental channel can monitor future flight releases for the potential activation of this feature.

If you're using Windows 11 today, there's no need to take any action. The recovery options available now will continue to work as they always have, including resetting your PC with a local reinstall, performing a cloud download reset, using System Restore points, accessing or WinRE repair and troubleshooting tools, or creating a recovery drive through the Control Panel.

For those who want to be prepared for potential recovery scenarios, it's advisable to create a full system backup with Windows Backup or a third-party tool.

You should also save a recovery drive on a USB stick via Settings under System and Recovery, verify that your BitLocker recovery keys are backed up to your Microsoft account or printed, and ensure important files are synced to OneDrive or another cloud storage service.

The cloud download reset option found in Settings under System and Recovery offers a similar function to what was previously called Cloud Rebuild, providing an easy way to reset your system using cloud resources.

What Windows 11 Users Should Do Now

Cloud Rebuild currently appears only as internal strings in Windows 11 Experimental 25H2 Insider builds. It is not available for end users and has not been officially announced by Microsoft.

The feature is not present in stable Windows 11 releases. Microsoft has not provided a timeline for rollout nor confirmed if or when Cloud Rebuild will become a public feature.

Users interested in updates can follow the Windows Insider Blog for future announcements and check the Experimental channel flight notes for any changes related to the feature.

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The strings appear in version 26.27.00.941319029 and indicate that Google is working on allowing users to find restaurants and place food orders through the Gemini-powered Ask Maps experience within a single conversation. This feature is not yet available in the public or beta versions of the app.

Google has not officially confirmed the feature. The teardown provides the clearest indication so far of the direction Google is taking with Maps and Gemini.

What The Google Maps Code Reveals About Food Ordering

The strings relate to a feature called "Ask Maps to order food." One promotional message states: "Tell us what you're craving, find local favorites, and Maps will order for you, even when you're on the go."

Additional strings found during the teardown include a shortcut labeled "Order food," a "Try it out" button, and an option to dismiss the prompt for later.

The wording indicates that users will describe what they want in natural language, and Maps will locate a restaurant and place the order through Gemini, rather than redirecting users to a separate delivery app.

Ask Maps is Google's AI assistant within Maps, powered by Gemini. It already allows users to find restaurants and attractions through natural language conversations instead of traditional keyword searches.

The food ordering feature would build on that, enabling a single conversation to go from discovering a restaurant to placing an order. If the feature is released as indicated, users wouldn't need to switch to Uber Eats, DoorDash, or the restaurant's own app to order.

Google previously offered restaurant ordering through Search, Assistant, and Maps in partnership with DoorDash and other delivery services. The Ask Maps version would add Gemini's conversational interface on top of this existing infrastructure.

What Is Still Unknown About Ask Maps Ordering

Google has not enabled the "Ask Maps to order food" feature in the current version of Google Maps. Although the strings are present in the app's code, there is no available interface for users to access.

APK teardowns often uncover features that Google is working on internally, but not every one of these features makes it into the final release. Google has not provided a timeline for rollout, nor details on the target markets, participating restaurants, or delivery partners at launch.

Several questions remain about the feature. It is unclear whether the ordering process will run in the cloud via Gemini or use on-device AI capabilities.

It is also uncertain if the feature will require newer hardware, such as the Pixel 10 series, which supports agentic AI actions including placing orders.

There is questions about whether the feature will be limited to pickup orders, given that the current strings seem aimed at users on the go, or if delivery options will also be supported.

Additionally, it is unknown which restaurants and delivery partners will be available at launch. Details on how payment and order confirmation will work through the Gemini conversation have not been provided.

The focus on pickup in the current strings suggests Google may be targeting users driving to a restaurant, with Maps handling the order while on the way. Delivery options through existing partners could be introduced later.

When The Feature Could Become Available

The "Ask Maps to order food" feature is not yet available in the public or beta versions of Google Maps. It was spotted in an APK teardown of Google Maps version 26.27.00.941319029, but there is no indication that an active rollout is underway.

Users cannot enable the feature through settings, hidden flags, or workarounds like ViveTool based on current information. Google has not confirmed the feature, so its wording and functionality may change before any public release.

Those interested in keeping an eye on the development can monitor updates through the Google Maps release notes and future APK teardowns as the app updates.

Google typically previews the Ask Maps and Gemini features through official channels like the Google Blog and Android Blog, which remain the most reliable sources for confirmation once the features are available in production.

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The company also intends to spin off Compulsion Games, Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and Undead Labs. Meanwhile, Arkane Lyon is in negotiations with its work council about its future. The layoffs will also affect Bethesda, ZeniMax, id Software, Activision, Obsidian, and Microsoft's Accessibility Team.

Additional reports suggest that another 1,600 redundancies may occur across other Microsoft divisions, bringing the total layoffs to approximately 4,800.

So far, no studios have been fully closed, and Sharma has confirmed that no publicly announced games have been canceled.

Which Xbox Studios Microsoft Is Spinning Off

Four studios are departing from Microsoft's ownership:

• Compulsion Games, the developer behind South of Midnight, will remain independent, retain its intellectual property, and receive funding for its next project.
• Double Fine, creators of Psychonauts, will also become independent while keeping their IP and funding.
• Ninja Theory, known for Hellblade, is set to be sold to a new owner with the resources to complete Senua.
• Undead Labs, responsible for State of Decay, will be sold to a different owner who has the resources to finish State of Decay 3.

Arkane Lyon, the studio behind Dishonored and Deathloop, is currently in negotiations with its work council instead of facing immediate layoffs.

French labor laws are likely to have protected the studio from the same fate as Arkane Austin. Its upcoming title, Blade, based on the Marvel Comics character, has reportedly been delayed from a late 2026 release to late 2027 after exceeding its budget.

ZeniMax and its subsidiaries continue to operate under Microsoft ownership but are undergoing significant staff reductions. According to Bloomberg's Jason Schreier, the studios are redirecting their focus toward franchises such as Fallout, The Elder Scrolls, Doom, Quake, and Wolfenstein. Despite being announced eight years ago, The Elder Scrolls VI remains a project years away from release.

Scott Miller, founder of 3D Realms, and Jeff Gardiner, a former lead at Bethesda Game Studios, provided some insights. They noted that id Software has laid off about 95 employees, including most of its coders.

Bethesda has reduced its staff by around 35 employees, while the exact number of layoffs at Obsidian Entertainment is not clear. The Elder Scrolls Online team has also cut staff, which has impacted its upcoming content schedule.

The layoffs at id Software could affect Microsoft's internal game engine development. The studio, known for titles like Doom and Quake, has developed some of the most influential graphics engines in the history of video games.

Recent technical work on projects such as Doom: The Dark Ages and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has been considered among the most ambitious efforts on current hardware.

How The Cuts Affect Bethesda, ZeniMax, And Other Teams

Microsoft's Accessibility Team, known for designing controllers for disabled gamers, has recently experienced layoffs. The company's hardware division appears to be unaffected. The upcoming Xbox console, codenamed Helix and slated for release in late 2027 or 2028, remains on schedule.

Blizzard Entertainment has not announced any layoffs at this time, although there may be staffing changes at the Diablo IV studio in the coming months.

Mojang, the studio behind Minecraft, and King, the creator of Candy Crush, will now be directly managed by Xbox. Helen Chiang, a former Mojang executive, has been promoted to chief operating officer as Microsoft aims to simplify management layers across its studios.

Why Microsoft Is Restructuring Xbox And What It Means For Players

Sharma explained that Xbox's previous approach of expanding Game Pass with a broad range of content and cross-platform releases did not meet Microsoft's growth expectations.

He noted that the company's profit margins are three to ten times lower than those of similar businesses, and that Xbox has lost about 64 cents for every dollar invested in most years.

Sharma also mentioned to Fortune that Xbox had overextended itself. Additionally, shortages of memory, partly caused by Microsoft's own investments in AI, have increased the company's hardware costs.

This has led manufacturers like Apple, Sony, and others to raise their prices, with Microsoft planning to add at least 100 dollars to the cost of Xbox Series consoles in August.

For players following the affected games, here are some practical implications:

• Announced games are still in development, according to Sharma
• The South of Midnight and Psychonauts franchises continue under the independent ownership of Compulsion Games and Double Fine.
• The Senua and State of Decay 3 are expected to be completed by the new owners of Ninja Theory and Undead Labs.
• The Blade from Arkane Lyon is reportedly delayed until late 2027. The timeline for
• The Elder Scrolls VI remains uncertain.
• The Elder Scrolls Online roadmap is being extended beyond the current content season.

Players who purchased games from any of the affected studios should not see immediate changes in how the games operate. Game Pass will continue to include titles from Microsoft-owned studios, and the original studios' back catalogs are expected to remain available through existing storefronts.

By July 2027, about 44,000 Microsoft employees are expected to have lost their jobs over four years of layoffs that began in 2023. The Xbox division has undergone its largest restructuring in history.

Microsoft has not released a full list of the roles or projects affected. More details are likely to be shared as affected studios and employees start speaking publicly about the changes in the coming weeks.

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The system uses access to the user's webcam to record a video of their hand. It prompts users to wave or perform other gestures at the camera so that Google can analyze the video and extract biometric data points to verify that the user is not a bot.

Early testing indicates that HGV can be bypassed using stock photos combined with OBS Studio's virtual camera feature.

The documentation states that HGV records one or more video clips through the device's webcam. These videos are processed to identify the hand gesture and are then deleted. The system does not record any audio.

How Google’s Hand Gesture Verification Works

The verification process asks users to give webcam access. Once permission is granted, users perform a hand gesture in front of the camera, such as a wave. Google's system then analyzes the video, extracts biometric data points, and sends a verification result to the website via reCAPTCHA.

According to Google's documentation, videos are recorded only to recognize the hand gesture, are deleted shortly after verification, and are not linked to a user's identity.

In addition, no audio is recorded during this process:

• Users testing HGV have confirmed that the challenge can be bypassed without needing a physical hand or real webcam.
• The workaround involves using a stock photo of a hand making the necessary gesture, combined with OBS Studio's virtual camera feature, which presents the image to websites as if it were a live webcam feed.

An attacker can simulate the hand gesture with the stock image while OBS routes the image through the virtual camera. The reCAPTCHA system accepts this as a valid gesture.

Reports suggest that the bypass can be automated with stock images and Python scripting, allowing bot operators to circumvent HGV at scale.

Why Webcam-Based CAPTCHA Raises Privacy Concerns

The requirement for HGV to access webcams has raised concerns among users about how biometric data is managed.

These worries include the idea that continuous webcam access could become a normal part of browsing, the lack of independent verification of Google's claim that videos are deleted after processing, and the potential for data retention policies to change in the future through updates to Google Cloud's backend systems.

There is also uncertainty about whether biometric data points extracted from videos are stored separately from the videos themselves. Google's cloud platform has retained data in its backend systems even when users have had no direct access to it.

This was shown in a recent case where a deleted Nest video was recovered for a high-profile investigation. Users concerned about biometric surveillance may reasonably question whether HGV's stated deletion policy is consistently applied across all of Google's infrastructure.

For users dealing with HGV in reCAPTCHA challenges, here are some practical steps to consider:

1. Deny webcam access if the challenge appears on a website where webcam use isn't appropriate for verification.
2. Explore alternative ways to verify your identity, such as switching to a different browser session or contacting site support if the challenge blocks legitimate access.
3. It's a good idea to regularly review your browser permissions in Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari settings to revoke webcam access from sites that no longer need it.
4. Also, consider whether the website's service justifies granting biometric verification.

Users who are concerned about how biometric data is handled should know that HGV is still in testing and isn't yet the standard type of reCAPTCHA challenge used on most websites.

Most sites that use reCAPTCHA still rely on traditional image and text-based CAPTCHAs.

What Users And Website Operators Should Know

For site operators considering HGV as a reCAPTCHA option, the bypass demonstrations show that the challenge currently provides only limited extra protection against automated attacks. The virtual camera bypass is easy to reproduce and doesn't require advanced tools.

Google's separate efforts with Cloudflare, Chrome, Edge, and Firefox involve Private Access Control Tokens. These offer a different approach to distinguish legitimate traffic from unwanted activity, without relying on biometric verification. Those assessing anti-bot measures may want to consider this method alongside or instead of HGV.

HGV is available on Google Cloud but has not yet become the default reCAPTCHA challenge on most websites. Google has not provided a timeline for a broader rollout or committed to making HGV the standard reCAPTCHA setup.

The company has also not responded to reports of bypass methods or announced solutions to prevent verification using stock photos via virtual cameras. Users can stay updated by monitoring Google Cloud's reCAPTCHA documentation and release notes.

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The peak occurred three days ago and is the highest number of players for the standalone version of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive since it separated from Counter-Strike 2 earlier this year.

Currently, the game ranks at number 28 on Steam's list of most played titles. Meanwhile, Counter-Strike 2 remains the most popular game on Steam, with well over a million concurrent players at the time of SteamDB's latest chart readings.

What Changed After CS’s Standalone Relaunch

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive was once merged with Counter-Strike 2, which meant that players launching CS:GO were automatically directed to CS2. Earlier this year, Valve separated the two games and restored Counter-Strike: Global Offensive with its own Steam page.

This change allowed players who preferred the original game to continue playing it as a standalone title. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is no longer searchable through the standard Steam storefront browsing interface.

To install the game, players need the direct link to its Steam page or an invitation from a friend. Despite the difficulty in discovering it, the game has maintained a steadily growing player base since its relaunch. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is currently the 28th most played game on Steam, surpassing titles like:

• Baldur's Gate 3,
• Rainbow Six Siege,
• Battlefield 6, and several other high-profile releases.

Its peak of 68,000 concurrent players is modest compared to the current numbers for Counter-Strike 2 or the peak of the original Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Nonetheless, the player count has been trending upward since the standalone version was reintroduced.

This number is similar to that of Deadlock, another Valve game that isn't easily found through the standard Steam search and requires a direct link for access.

Why CS’s Player Count Still Matters

The player bases for Counter-Strike 2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive show that Valve's tactical shooters can coexist on Steam without directly competing against each other.

The original Counter-Strike and Counter-Strike: Source still have active players, continuing the franchise’s presence across multiple generations. The tactical FPS genre as a whole continues to grow, with titles like Valorant available on different platforms and others on and off Steam.

Players choosing between Counter-Strike 2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive can now do so based on their preferences for game mechanics, competitive scenes, or nostalgia, without needing to leave the Counter-Strike franchise entirely.

To play the standalone version, users can visit the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive page on Steam directly through a browser or use a direct Steam link.

From there, they can add the game to their Steam library via the standalone page. The game can then be installed and launched separately from Counter-Strike 2.

The standalone version is available free of charge for existing Counter-Strike account holders. Users interested in both games can install them side by side without any conflicts.

How To Access Counter-Strike: Global Offensive On Steam

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is now available as a standalone game via Steam. Valve has not announced any changes to how the game is distributed or discovered on the Steam platform.

The game still cannot be found through the usual search or browse features on Steam. Instead, users will need to use a direct link to access it, rather than navigating through the storefront.

Valve has not commented on the increase in player numbers or shared any plans for new content updates specific to the standalone version.

Those interested in tracking the game's activity can monitor SteamDB for updated player count charts or follow community channels for potential news.

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The feature is turned on by default in the latest Opera update and can be accessed through Settings, Privacy and Security, Paste Protect. Opera states that the system is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Paste Protect works by scanning copied content for patterns that are commonly linked to malicious scripts and commands before the data reaches the clipboard.

How Opera Paste Protect Blocks ClickFix Attacks

ClickFix is a common social engineering technique. Victims see what looks like a verification step or troubleshooting instructions, then are guided to copy a piece of code or command to the clipboard and paste it into the operating system's command-line interface.

The commands run with the user's privileges, which can bypass security measures. Often, this results in the installation of information-stealing malware.

The method has become widespread enough that Apple recently added a warning to macOS Terminal to detect risky pastes and alert users before execution.

Opera's method prevents harmful commands from being copied to the browser clipboard. Paste Protect combines two features: hijack protection, introduced in 2021, which detects attempts by external applications to replace copied content like URLs or bank account numbers with malicious versions, and injection protection, a new feature that blocks potentially dangerous commands before they reach the clipboard, whether initiated by a user or a website.

Opera explains that Paste Protect uses platform-specific rules to scan copied content for patterns linked to malicious scripts. If suspicious content is found, Paste Protect blocks the copy action, shows a warning popup, and displays a red security indicator in the address bar.

Opera states that if a potential threat is detected, the copy operation is automatically prevented. Users will see a popup explaining the situation, along with a red warning icon in the address bar.

How Users Can Review And Manage Blocked Content

Users can view the first 120 characters of blocked content in the warning popup. After a five-second timeout, the popup provides an option to approve the copy action if the user believes the content is legitimate. This timeout is intended to prevent users from quickly bypassing the warning without reviewing what was blocked.

For users who frequently copy commands from trusted sources like GitHub, Opera offers the option to create an allow list. By selecting "Always allow from this site" in the popup, the current site is added to the allow list. Future copy actions from that site will then bypass the Paste Protect check.

Opera explains: "If you are confident in your actions, such as a developer who regularly copies scripts or commands from trusted sources like GitHub, you can set certain websites as trusted. By choosing 'Always allow from this site' in the popup, you enable copying from these sites without restrictions."

Paste Protect is enabled by default in the latest version of Opera. Users can review or change this setting through the browser settings.

To do so, open Opera, click the Opera menu and select Settings, or press Alt+P. Then navigate to Privacy and Security, and select Paste Protect. From there, users can adjust the settings, including the list of trusted sites.

For those seeking extra protection against ClickFix-style attacks on macOS, there is also a newly added warning in the Terminal. This feature offers a similar safeguard at the operating system level.

What Users Should Know About Clipboard Safety

Even with Paste Protect enabled, Opera still recommends that users avoid running commands they find online unless they fully understand what they do.

For better clipboard safety, it is advised to treat unexpected "fix" or "verification" instructions with suspicion, especially when they involve pasting content into the Terminal, Command Prompt, PowerShell, or the Run dialog.

Users should verify commands against trusted sources before executing them. It is also helpful to use script execution environments that show the exact content before running it. When dealing with scripts from platforms like GitHub, it is safer to review their origin rather than trusting third-party links.

Paste Protect reduces the chance of copying malicious content accidentally, but it does not eliminate the need for user judgment when reviewing scripts and commands.

Paste Protect is now available in the latest version of Opera on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Users with older versions of Opera should update via the browser's built-in update feature to access this new feature.

Opera has not announced any plans to extend Paste Protect to Opera GX, Opera Mini, or other Opera browser variants.

The company has not disclosed the specific detection methods used by Paste Protect. Users can follow Opera's security blog for updates on the feature’s development and for information about additional protections against emerging clipboard attack techniques.

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According to the WhatsApp blog, usernames will enable users to start conversations without sharing their phone number.

Reservations are being opened early to give WhatsApp's more than three billion users the chance to secure their handles. The full username feature is not yet available and will be rolled out gradually over the coming months.

Meta mentions that users will receive a notification in WhatsApp when usernames are available in their country.

What WhatsApp Usernames Will Change

Once launched, usernames will allow users to start new conversations without exposing their phone number. They will also help keep their phone number private in group chats such as parent groups or event-based chats. Additionally, usernames provide a consistent identity that others can use to reach someone for the first time.

Meta explains: "Once we launch usernames, when you message a person or business for the first time they will no longer see your phone number if you have enabled your username."

The company describes the feature as a privacy enhancement. There will be no directory of usernames to browse, and no automatic suggestions will be provided. Other users will need to know the exact username to initiate a first conversation.

Along with usernames, Meta is introducing an optional username key that users must know before they can send a first message.

The key is intended to give users more control over who can contact them through the username system, reducing the chances of unwanted contact from people who guess or find a username elsewhere.

Meta has not yet provided details on how the key is generated, shared, or reset. More information is expected as the feature is rolled out.

How To Reserve A WhatsApp Username

Meta explains that creators, small businesses, and organizations seeking a consistent presence across its platforms can now claim their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp.

This option allows account holders to unify their identities across Meta's messaging and social apps. The company has also provided details on how to claim an Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp through its FAQ pages.

Reservation is available on the latest version of WhatsApp. To reserve a username:

1. Open the latest WhatsApp on Android or iPhone
2. Go to Settings, tap Account, then select Username.
3. Enter your preferred username and confirm.

Meta also introduced a username generator in the app to help users choose a unique one.

Users with older versions of WhatsApp should update through the App Store or Google Play Store to access the reservation feature. The process is the same on both platforms.

When WhatsApp Usernames Will Become Available

The username feature is not yet available in the public or beta versions of WhatsApp. Reservations opened this week ahead of a planned launch later in 2026.

Meta has not specified an exact release date and has only said that the rollout will happen gradually over the coming months, with country-specific notifications sent through the app once it is available.

Users who reserve a username now will keep their reservation through the launch period. Meta has not provided details on how long a reservation remains valid if it is not linked to an active account or how disputes over reserved usernames will be managed.

Because reservations open early, Meta has not fully addressed common questions such as whether reserved usernames can be transferred, reset after launch, or how to regenerate the username key.

Users should monitor WhatsApp's official channels for updates before assuming that reservation behaviors will be the same as on other Meta platforms. To confirm when usernames become active in their country, users can check the WhatsApp blog and in-app notifications.

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Once the stores close in a specific market, users will no longer be able to make new digital purchases on either platform. The announcement was made on July 1, 2026. The closures will roll out region by region rather than as a single global cutoff.

When The PS3 And PS Vita Stores Will Shut Down

Sony has announced a schedule for the closure of its PlayStation Store for older consoles. The store on PS3 will close in Mexico, Honduras, and Nicaragua starting August 2026. In other Latin American and Middle Eastern countries, the PS3 store will close later in 2026. For all other regions, the PlayStation Store for both PS3 and PS Vita will shut down in July 2027.

This phased approach means that players in different regions will have different final purchase dates depending on where they buy content.

After a store closes in a given market, PS3 and PS Vita owners will no longer be able to purchase new games digitally, buy DLC, expansion content, or add-ons through the store, or purchase digital editions of games that are only available via the storefront.

Sony has not announced any changes to the following capabilities in the July 1 update: re-downloading previously purchased content, which usually remains accessible after storefront closures on older platforms; playing games that have already been purchased and downloaded; or using PS Plus and other subscription services on affected platforms.

Users should keep an eye on Sony's follow-up announcements for details about re-download options once the stores are closed.

What Players Can Still Access After The Closure

Sony explained in a blog post on the PlayStation Blog that they understand this news may be disappointing for PS3 and PS Vita players who feel strongly connected to this generation of gaming.

They emphasized that PS3 and PS Vita were important parts of PlayStation's history, making this a difficult decision. As the company continues to focus on expanding the PlayStation experience on newer devices that most users are playing on today, they say they need to allocate more resources to provide the best gaming experiences on these platforms as they plan for the future.

For PS3 and PS Vita users who want to retain access to digital content, the necessary steps vary depending on regional timing. First, check the local shutdown date: users in Mexico, Honduras, or Nicaragua need to act before August 2026.

In other Latin American and Middle Eastern countries, the deadline is late 2026, while most other regions have until July 2027. To prepare, consider purchasing any desired digital games, DLC, or add-ons before the store closes in your area, as no new purchases will be possible afterward.

Download any previously purchased content to your console beforehand to avoid losing access if the download infrastructure changes later. If you are enrolled in PlayStation Plus, back up your saved data to the cloud; alternatively, use external media if supported, to protect your progress independent of Sony's servers.

For physical copies, such as games on Blu-ray or Vita cartridges, these will remain playable after digital store closures. Lastly, users who buy digital content in the final months before the regional shutdown should keep in mind that customer support availability and refund policies might become more limited as the shutdown approaches.

The PlayStation 3 was the first console to feature the PlayStation Store when it launched in 2006. Its shutdown marks the end of a 20-year history for the storefront on that platform. This is the first time Sony has closed a digital storefront for its legacy consoles.

In recent years, similar store closures have taken place on competing platforms:

• Nintendo shut down the Wii U and 3DS eShops in 2023, while
• Microsoft closed the Xbox 360 Store in 2024.

The PlayStation Store on the PS Vita will remain accessible through July 2027 in most markets. This extends the store’s availability alongside the PS3 store's global shutdown for regions not affected by earlier closures.

Both platforms shared a store infrastructure and are being retired together outside of the initial Latin American and Middle Eastern rollouts.

How This Fits Sony’s Broader PlayStation Shift

The store shutdown announcement follows other recent Sony decisions affecting PlayStation users:

• Sony announced on July 1 that it will end production of physical discs for new PlayStation games starting January 2028, moving all new releases to digital-only distribution
• Sony has announced plans to remove hundreds of purchased Studio Canal movies and TV shows from user libraries due to expiring content licensing agreements

Together, the changes point to a broader Sony push to consolidate services around current-generation platforms and digital delivery. Users on legacy Sony hardware should expect ongoing changes to storefront availability, media library access, and support windows as Sony continues to shift resources toward newer devices.

Sony has not announced a broader plan for legacy console support beyond the store closures. Users can watch the PlayStation Blog for follow-up announcements on re-download availability and support for previously purchased content.

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The app is not currently available for public download, suggesting it is in a closed testing phase.

The listing describes Pocket as a creative platform for making and sharing "gizmos," which Meta defines as small, interactive experiences that users can tap and play.

Alessandro Paluzzi confirmed the app's existence on X, and Business Insider reported additional details about its development.

What Meta’s Pocket App Lets Users Create

Meta describes a gizmo as a small, interactive experience that works as a mini-game. According to the Play Store listing, gizmos can be controlled through touch and tilt gestures.

They can be created without coding skills by using natural language prompts in a text editor. Creators can revise their gizmo by adjusting the prompts until satisfied. Once finished, they can publish their gizmo for other Pocket users to discover.

Users do not need any programming experience to build a gizmo. Meta states that the creator simply writes a description of the game they want, and the platform generates the interactive experience based on that prompt. The creator can then refine the prompt before publishing.

Pocket is designed as a social app for mini-games, similar to TikTok or Instagram. Users can browse a feed of gizmos created by others, like and comment on them, and save gizmos into playlists, much like saving audio tracks.

They can also share playlists with other users and grant access to the phone's camera and photo gallery, given the necessary permissions.

The app’s approach to playlists and sharing positions it more as a social discovery and remix platform than a traditional game distribution service.

How Pocket Fits Into Meta’s AI App Strategy

Business Insider reports that Pocket is based on an app called Gizmo, which was originally created by AI startup Atma Sciences. This company was founded by former Snapchat developers.

Earlier this year, Meta acquired Atma Sciences and received a non-exclusive license to the underlying technology as part of the deal.

The company has not revealed the terms of the acquisition or shared detailed information about the technology beyond what was described in the Business Insider report.

Pocket joins an increasing number of Meta apps that rely on generative AI as the main tool for content creation. Meta already has the AI video creation app Vibes, which allows users to generate videos from prompts and browse them through a feed where they can like, comment, and share.

Paluzzi has mentioned that Meta is likely to promote Pocket alongside its other apps, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Cross-promotion through these platforms could give Pocket much broader distribution than launching it on its own.

What Users Should Know Before Trying Pocket

Pocket is listed on the Google Play Store, but a public download isn't currently available. The listing acts as a placeholder while the app stays in closed testing.

Meta hasn't announced a public release date, nor is there information about availability on iOS, regional restrictions, launch markets, or monetization plans for gizmo creators.

Users interested in following the app's rollout can keep an eye on the Pocket listing on Google Play for updates regarding download availability, watch Meta's official announcements through its newsroom and social channels, or follow reverse engineers like Alessandro Paluzzi for early build insights.

For users thinking about trying Pocket when a public build becomes available:

• The app will ask for camera and photo gallery permissions. Meta states these are optional and under user control.
• Gizmos are created using AI models, so creators can’t fully predict the quality or content of the output.
• Meta has not explained how it plans to moderate AI-generated gizmos or handle disputes related to the content. Activities across accounts, like likes and playlists, are likely to contribute to Meta's broader recommendation systems, similar to other Meta apps.

The company has not published a specific privacy policy for Pocket beyond the standard Meta account policies that would generally apply.

Pocket fits into a broader trend of vibe-coding tools that allow non-developers to create interactive experiences using natural language prompts.

Similar tools have been introduced by OpenAI, Anthropic, and independent startups, though most have concentrated on general software development rather than social mini-games.

Meta's approach with Pocket is to place vibe-coded content in a social feed with discovery features, rather than treat it as a developer tool.

This strategy aims to position AI-generated content as social entertainment, aligning with Meta's focus on engagement and network effects.

The company has not announced when Pocket will move out of closed testing or become generally available. The app's Play Store listing remains active as a placeholder, and there is no option to download it for broader public use at this time.

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This feature is being gradually rolled out to all Edge users on both platforms. System administrators can manage its availability using the new NonMicrosoftAccountSignInEnabled policy.

This change marks a reversal of Microsoft's stance in 2020, when the company said it had no plans to integrate Google services into Edge by default. The addition was first announced in June through the Microsoft 365 Roadmap.

What Google Account Sign-In Adds To Microsoft Edge

After setting up a Google account in Edge 150, users can access several new features. They can sign into third-party websites more easily using Google, synchronize data across devices through Google account services, and use both Microsoft and Google account features within the same browser session.

Before Edge 150, users who wanted to work across Google services in Edge had to find workarounds. The native sign-in support simplifies this process for those who use both ecosystems.

Microsoft has introduced the NonMicrosoftAccountSignInEnabled group policy for business and enterprise settings. System administrators can use this to enable or disable Google account sign-in on managed devices, depending on their organization's needs for compliance or security.

The setting can be configured through standard Group Policy or via Intune management channels. Microsoft provides detailed documentation on this policy on Microsoft Learn.

Administrators are advised to review the setting thoroughly before deploying it more broadly, especially if their organization has specific policies regarding third-party account integrations.

What Admins and macOS Users Should Know

Edge 150 is the last version to support macOS 12 Monterey. Starting with Edge 151, all subsequent releases will require macOS 13 Ventura or later.

Users on macOS Monterey should consider updating to macOS 13 Ventura or later if their hardware allows before Edge 151 is released. If hardware limitations prevent an OS upgrade, they can continue using Edge 150 for as long as possible.

Once Edge 151 arrives, they may want to explore alternative browsers compatible with unsupported macOS versions.

Microsoft has not provided a specific end-of-support date for Edge 150 on Monterey. Security updates for Edge 150 will follow the usual two-week release cycle until the version reaches end of support.

Edge 150 has migrated the Workspaces feature to a new architecture. Workspaces allows users to create a persistent set of tabs that can be saved for later.

The new version architecture removes the sharing function entirely. Microsoft states this change aims to improve the reliability and performance of tab sets.

Users who previously shared Workspaces with colleagues will no longer be able to do so through the built-in feature. For those who need to share tabs collaboratively, alternatives include sending links via email or chat, using OneDrive or SharePoint document libraries to distribute lists of URLs, or exporting and sharing bookmarks.

Microsoft originally took a stance against integrating Google services into Edge by default in 2020. This reflected the company's broader strategy of using Edge to promote its own technology goals, even though the browser is built on the Chromium engine, where Google engineers influence major decisions, such as the change to the Manifest V2 add-on standard.

The reversal comes amid increased scrutiny of Edge's role in Windows. A recent open letter from the Browser Choice Alliance urged Microsoft to stop offering rebates, dark patterns, and system update practices that steer users toward Edge over other browsers.

The addition of Google account sign-in to Edge is a limited concession, providing extra functionality for users who use both ecosystems, without altering Edge's fundamental integration with Microsoft accounts.

How To Use Google Sign-In In Edge 150

To use the new Google account sign-in feature in Edge 150, start by updating Edge to version 150.0.4078.48 or newer via the About Microsoft Edge menu. Next, open Edge Settings and go to Profiles.

From there, select Add account or Sign in and choose Google as your sign-in provider. Follow the standard Google sign-in process to complete authentication.

Users have the option to keep both Microsoft and Google accounts within the same Edge profile or to use separate profiles for each account, based on their preference.

Edge 150 is now available on the stable channel for Windows and macOS. Users can initiate the update by opening Edge, clicking the three-dot menu, selecting Help and feedback, and then choosing About Microsoft Edge. The update will install automatically once it is available.

For enterprise deployments, it is recommended to verify Group Policy settings related to the new NonMicrosoftAccountSignInEnabled option before proceeding with a wider rollout.

Users running Edge 149 or earlier will continue to have their existing sign-in options until the update reaches their device.

Microsoft has not announced any additional integrations with Google services beyond account sign-in. Users interested in more extensive Google service integration in Edge should keep an eye on Microsoft's roadmap updates for any future changes.

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This information comes from a Windows release health dashboard notice. The problem began on June 30, 2026, when Google retired the Tenor API, which the emoji panel used to fetch animated GIFs.

Microsoft replaced Tenor with GIPHY in the June 23 preview update, restoring the feature for users who install it.The change affects the emoji panel that opens with the Windows key plus the period keyboard shortcut. Systems that haven’t received the update will continue to display the error until they install the fix.

Why GIF Search Broke In The Windows 11 Emoji Panel

The emoji panel used Google's Tenor API to search for and display animated GIFs.Google discontinued the Tenor API on June 30, 2026, according to their support documentation. After the API was turned off, Windows 11 had no way to fetch GIFs, resulting in an error message when users tried to access them.

Microsoft's release health notice states: "Starting June 30, 2026, install the latest Windows update to continue using GIFs in the Emoji panel.

If you do not update, you will see a 'GIF service is not available' message in the panel."

Instead of trying to restore Tenor access directly, Microsoft switched to GIPHY before the shutdown. This change was included in the preview updates released on June 23:

• KB5095093 for versions 25H2 and 24H2
• KB5095091 for version 26H1

Devices that installed either update before June 30 continued to display GIFs without issues.

Those that skipped the preview update encountered an error message on June 30 and will see it until the update is installed.

How To Restore GIF Support In Windows 11

Users experiencing the error can restore GIF functionality by installing the latest Windows quality update. To do this, open Settings and navigate to Windows Update.

If the Patch Tuesday update has not yet been released, enable the toggle for "Get the latest updates as soon as they're available." Then click Check for updates and install any available quality updates.

Restart the device if prompted. After the update is installed, the emoji panel will automatically switch to GIPHY, with no additional configuration needed.

Since the emoji panel now pulls results from GIPHY instead of Tenor, users might notice differences in animations, rankings, and content for the same search terms.

The feature works as before, but the underlying library has changed. Those who relied on specific Tenor content should expect some variation in results.

The GIPHY library includes most common GIF categories, such as reactions, animated stickers, and pop culture content.

Users searching for particular memes or animations that were unique to Tenor may find fewer matches or see different variants.

What Users Should Know About The Switch To GIPHY

Users of Windows 11 who are experiencing this issue should install the latest available update as an immediate step.

Those who prefer to wait for the standard Patch Tuesday release rather than the optional preview update can expect the fix to be included in the July 2026 Patch Tuesday cumulative update.

This incident highlights that even built-in Windows features rely on external services that can be discontinued at any time without Microsoft's control.

When a third-party service disappears, features that seem native to the operating system can stop functioning until Microsoft provides a replacement.

To avoid similar disruptions in the future, users can keep Windows 11 updated with the latest quality updates instead of delaying them.

They can also enable optional preview updates through Settings and Windows Update if they want quicker access to fixes.Monitoring the Windows release health dashboard for notices about known issues can also help you stay informed.

The GIPHY replacement is now available for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1 through the June 23 preview updates. It will be broadly rolled out with the July 2026 Patch Tuesday cumulative update.

Microsoft has not provided details on whether the GIPHY integration will stay permanent or if the emoji panel might switch to another provider in the future.

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The ruling upholds the European Commission's 2018 finding that Google used its Android operating system to strengthen its hold on online search. This decision is now final and cannot be appealed further.

As the highest court in the European Union, the Court of Justice's ruling makes the penalty definitive. Google and its parent company, Alphabet, had challenged a 2022 General Court decision that largely upheld the Commission's findings while reducing the original €4.3 billion fine slightly.

What The EU Court Ruled Against Google

The Court of Justice ruled that Google's appeal, filed by Google and its parent company Alphabet against the General Court's decision, is dismissed. This confirms the penalty for Google Search's abuse of a dominant market position in relation to the Android operating system.

The case did not challenge Android itself, which is provided free of charge. Instead, authorities looked at the contractual and technical conditions tied to using the platform.

The European Commission identified three practices by Google that the court considered anti-competitive. First, Google required phone manufacturers to pre-install its Search and Chrome apps to access the Play Store, which is the main channel for Android app distribution.

Second, the company paid some large device makers and mobile carriers to pre-install Google Search exclusively.

Third, it prevented manufacturers from using alternative versions of Android if they wanted to include Google apps, which hindered the development of competing Android forks.

The Commission argued that these practices effectively tied search, browser, and app distribution into a single system under Google's control.

For device makers, refusing to comply with these terms was not a viable option given the importance of the Play Store for reaching Android users.

Why The Android Antitrust Ruling Matters

Google responded to the ruling with a statement saying it does not acknowledge the significance of its investment to keep Android open, interoperable, and free.

The company noted that it had already made changes to its Android licensing agreements following the initial 2018 decision. The recent ruling does not require further operational adjustments but confirms the financial penalty and the finding of anti-competitive conduct.

The ruling affirms the European Commission's decision that Google engaged in anti-competitive practices, providing a stronger legal basis for other companies considering damage claims related to Google's past Android practices. Future litigation could result in additional financial risks for Google beyond the current €4.1 billion fine.

This case has drawn significant attention because it explores how technical integration and contractual obligations can reinforce a platform’s dominance, rather than focusing solely on traditional antitrust issues such as pricing or market share.

FairSearch, the group that filed the original complaint in 2013, called the ruling "an important victory in Europe's highest court against Google's anti-competitive conduct in mobile markets."

What The Decision Means For Users, Developers, And Google

The ruling underscores the EU's continued efforts to regulate large technology platforms. Under the Digital Markets Act, Google has already been directed to allow competing AI search assistants to operate more freely on Android devices and to share certain data with rival search providers.

The company is also under scrutiny regarding how it ranks its own services in search results and how Play Store policies influence developers, especially around steering users toward alternative payment options.

Additionally, regulators are investigating whether Google is demoting certain news content in search rankings.

Recent actions by the EU against other tech companies have followed similar patterns, focusing on platform integration and contractual terms rather than solely on market share.

For Android users in the EU, the ruling doesn’t change how devices function. The compliance updates made by Google in 2018 gave device makers more flexibility with bundling requirements.

Users with newer Android devices sold in the EU have seen choice screens for search engines and browsers as part of Google's ongoing regulatory commitments.

For phone manufacturers, the ruling confirms the legal environment in which they operate. Manufacturers can continue to ship Android devices with Google apps under existing licensing terms.

However, Google's ability to require specific bundling arrangements is now clearly limited by EU competition law.

For developers, the ruling supports ongoing regulatory pressure on Play Store payment rules and app store fees. Google's Play Store Billing Choice program, which opened to US, UK, and EEA developers on June 30, is part of the response to broader regulatory concerns. Additional changes may occur depending on the outcomes of related EU cases.

The Court of Justice's ruling concludes Google's legal challenges to the 2018 antitrust decision, and the €4.1 billion penalty is now enforceable.

In the coming months and years, there may be follow-up damages claims from competitors, device makers, or other affected parties.

Users can keep track of ongoing changes related to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) affecting Android through Google's Android licensing updates and publications from the EU Commission.

Google has not announced any operational changes following Thursday's ruling beyond the compliance measures it has already implemented since 2018.

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The project, called Aion, was built on a codebase named "Win3" and used the Edge browser as its shell. The video first appeared on BetaWiki's Discord server and is thought to be around two years old.

Sources verified the clip's authenticity to Windows Central. Microsoft has not commented on whether Aion was an internal hacking experiment or a product proposal, and the current status of the project is not known.

What The Leaked Aion Video Shows

The Aion prototype features Copilot as the primary interface for the operating system, replacing the traditional Windows overlay. Instead of the familiar Start menu and taskbar, a Copilot-powered shell built with web technologies is used.

Leaked footage shows several notable features, including a multi-modal input box where users can type commands to interact with Copilot. There is also a placeholder for a taskbar and start menu-like functions.

A concept called "Spaces" groups apps and websites together with the help of AI, allowing users to open, close, or recall these Spaces via an interface similar to a Start menu.

Additionally, there are rich plugins enabling Copilot to perform actions such as drafting and sending Outlook emails based on content within a Space.

The system is said to run on a lightweight, web-based Windows codebase, with the Edge browser and Chromium's layout engine powering the Copilot experience.

Since the prototype is based on web technologies, it doesn’t support native Win32 applications directly. When users want to open a Win32 program like Microsoft Word, Aion provides a link to a Windows Cloud PC instance where the program can be used remotely.

This method follows what Microsoft does with Windows 365 Cloud PC, where legacy applications run in a cloud-hosted Windows environment instead of directly on the local device.

Why Microsoft’s Copilot OS Prototype Is Raising Concerns

Project Aion is not a product that is currently available for shipping. The footage leaked earlier is said to be around two years old, and Microsoft has not confirmed whether the project is still actively in development, has been reworked into other initiatives, or if it has been shelved.

Sources from Windows Central describe Aion as an internal experiment, but there is no official information regarding its future plans.

Recently, Microsoft reduced some Copilot integrations across Windows 11 following user feedback about feature bloat. Plans to incorporate Copilot into notifications and settings were quietly canceled, and Microsoft Edge recently removed its AI-powered history search feature after user backlash.

These decisions suggest that Microsoft is taking a more cautious approach to adding Copilot capabilities than what was originally proposed in Aion.

Meanwhile, Copilot continues to expand through what Microsoft calls multiple agentic "personas," and Edge is already gaining agentic browsing features.

This pattern indicates that, even if Aion itself does not see release, some of its design elements are still appearing in Microsoft's products.

The public response to the leaked clip has largely been negative. Reddit users on r/pcmasterrace expressed concerns about a Copilot-powered operating system, highlighting issues such as the potential loss of support for local applications without cloud dependence, privacy concerns related to an AI that can read across Spaces, and reduced user control compared to traditional Windows desktops.

Users also noted that core OS functions would require internet access. Microsoft's terms of use for Copilot specify that users adopt the assistant at their own risk, which has added to skepticism about a Copilot-focused approach to operating system design.

What Project Aion Means For Windows Users

For current users of Windows 10 and Windows 11, Aion has no immediate impact. The prototype isn’t available publicly, and Microsoft has not announced plans to replace the standard Windows shell with a Copilot-based interface.

Users concerned about AI integration in Windows can take several steps. They can review Windows Settings under Privacy and Security to control what data is accessible to Copilot and other AI features.

If the assistant isn’t needed, it can be disabled on Windows 11 through Settings, Personalization, Taskbar. It is also advisable to keep an eye on Insider builds for updates on how Copilot is integrated into the shell.

Additionally, reviewing Microsoft's Copilot terms of use can help users understand its data handling policies. For those who prefer traditional Windows workflows, it is worth noting that Microsoft has continued to add options that address feedback about Copilot placement.

Recent updates include an option to pause Windows Update indefinitely, a movable taskbar, and a dedicated Taskbar Size setting available in Insider builds.

Aion is part of Microsoft's broader effort to develop agentic AI within the operating system. The Windows Central report compares Aion to other Microsoft projects that involve agentic technology, such as the expanding automation features in Edge and more than 80 Copilot products across Microsoft's portfolio.

It remains unclear whether Aion will be released publicly or stay an internal project. Leaked footage shows how far Microsoft was willing to go in redesigning the Windows shell to incorporate AI.

Those interested in Windows’ future can look for changes at the shell level in upcoming Insider builds and official roadmap updates, which may indicate whether any concepts from Aion are being pursued.

Microsoft has not officially acknowledged the Aion project. No release date, plans for revival, or public roadmap have been provided.

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Samsung has not explained the reason for this change. The notification’s subject line states: "Vascular Load Labs feature to be discontinued."

Samsung also mentioned that after the update, existing Vascular Load data will no longer be visible in Samsung Health, although users are advised to download their data beforehand.

What Vascular Load Did And How To Save Your Data

Vascular Load was introduced in One UI 8 as a feature that tracks circulatory system stress and offers suggestions to manage heart health.

It was categorized as a Labs feature, meaning it was an experimental capability released alongside the main Samsung Health app. The feature was available on Galaxy Watch models in the US. Samsung has not specified whether it will be available in other markets following the recent discontinuation notice.

Samsung has announced that users can save their existing Vascular Load data before it is removed. To download the data, open Samsung Health on the paired phone, tap More options, then Settings, and select Download personal data.

Choose Vascular Load and follow the prompts to export. Anyone wanting to keep a record of their Vascular Load history should complete the export process before the removal in late July.

Samsung has not provided details on how long the data will remain available for download after the release of the One UI 9 watch update.

Why Samsung May Be Removing Vascular Load

Samsung has not provided an explanation for discontinuing Vascular Load. Some Reddit users have speculated that regulatory issues in the US may be a factor, as features that track health metrics can be subject to FDA rules.

Similar regulatory hurdles previously affected other smartwatch features, such as blood pressure measurement, which required longer approval processes and came with restrictions like monthly calibration and disclaimers stating the feature is not intended for medical use.

Android Police has contacted Samsung for a formal statement, but the company has not yet publicly explained the reason for removing the feature.

As Vascular Load is being phased out, Samsung is preparing to launch a new Blood Pressure Trend feature. The company has announced that this feature will be available in the US on the upcoming Galaxy Watch, which is expected to be revealed at a Galaxy Unpacked event later this month.

Blood Pressure Trend will monitor and analyze blood pressure over time. Setting up the feature will involve calibrating it with a blood pressure cuff, following the same process used for existing Galaxy Watch blood pressure functions.

Samsung has not specified whether Blood Pressure Trend will be available on current Galaxy Watch models or if it will be limited to the new hardware. Users interested in ongoing cardiovascular tracking on their wrist will need to wait for more details during the Unpacked event.

What Galaxy Watch Users Should Do Next

If you're a current Galaxy Watch user in the US who relies on Vascular Load, it's a good idea to export your existing Vascular Load data before it is removed in late July to keep your historical records.

Keep an eye on the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event for updates on Blood Pressure Trend and other health features available on the new Galaxy Watch.

You might also consider alternative methods for tracking heart health, such as standalone blood pressure monitors or apps that monitor heart rate variability.

Users outside the US should wait for confirmation from Samsung to see if Vascular Load will still be available in their region after the rollout of One UI 9 on the watch.

The One UI 9 Watch update is expected to be released in late July. In this update, Samsung will remove Vascular Load in the US. The company has not specified an exact date within the late July window nor provided a detailed rollout schedule beyond that timeframe.

Samsung has also not confirmed if Vascular Load will return in a different form after regulatory review or if its removal will be permanent.

Users can watch Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event later this month for more information on the company's plans regarding heart health features for the Galaxy Watch.

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The announcement was made on X and applies to all platforms, including Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Windows, Steam, and the Epic Games Store.

Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 digital version will be canceled and need to be placed again with the new release date.

This game is a continuation of Capcom's Onimusha series, which had been inactive for several years before this revival was announced.

Pre-Order Editions And Switch 2 Cancellations

Onimusha: Way of the Sword can be pre-ordered from digital storefronts in three editions:

• The Standard Edition includes the base game only.
• The Deluxe Edition features the base game along with a Deluxe Kit that contains an alternative cosmetic outfit and gauntlet for Musashi, several charms, and cosmetic sword skins.
• The Premium Deluxe Edition includes everything in the Deluxe Edition plus a Premium Kit with alternate costumes for Oni Lady and Okuni, different haori coats for Musashi, and a five-track digital mini-soundtrack.

Pre-ordering any edition before September 25, 2026, grants early access to bonus items. These include charms and cosmetic weapon skins for Musashi's sword.

Following the change in the release date, Capcom has announced that digital pre-orders made through Nintendo Switch 2 stores will be canceled. Customers who pre-ordered digitally on Switch 2 will need to place a new preorder to secure the game and any included bonuses.

Capcom clarified that physical pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 are unaffected and will continue as planned for the new release date.

To reorder digitally on Switch 2, users should open the Nintendo eShop either on the console or via a web browser, search for Onimusha: Way of the Sword, select their preferred edition, and complete the pre-order to ensure receipt of the Early Adopter Bonus items.

Patients on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC do not need to take any action, as existing pre-orders on those platforms will transfer to the new release date without issues.

Why Capcom Moved The Release Date

Capcom has not given a specific reason for changing the release date. Originally scheduled for September 25, 2026, Onimusha: Way of the Sword would have launched alongside several major titles, including Control: Resonant, the console version of Dune Awakening, and Silent Hill: Townfall.

The new release date is set for September 4, 2026, positioning the game against Orbitals and The Blood of Dawnwalker, both of which are new intellectual property releases without any established franchise history. This change aims to provide a less crowded launch window for Onimusha: Way of the Sword.

Onimusha: Way of the Sword is scheduled to launch on September 4, 2026. The game will be available on multiple platforms and storefronts, including:

• Xbox Series X|S,
• PlayStation 5,
• Nintendo Switch 2,
• PC through Windows, Steam, and the Epic Games Store.

A playable demo can be accessed on all platforms for those interested in trying the game before making a pre-order.

What Players Should Watch Before Launch

Capcom has not announced any changes to editions, pricing, or bonus content beyond the delay in the release date. Users should verify that their digital pre-orders for Switch 2 are placed again if they were made before the date change.

To qualify for the Early Adopter Bonus, pre-orders must be completed before September 25, 2026, although the game will have already launched by then. Watch for platform-specific pre-load timelines as the release date approaches.

Capcom has not provided details on download sizes, pre-load windows, or day-one patches. Users should monitor platform storefronts for those details leading up to the September 4 release.

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Announced on Tuesday, the model is now available through Google AI Studio, the Gemini API, and the Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform, according to Google's statement.

The company notes that the model can generate images in approximately four seconds at a cost of $0.034 per 1,000 images.

Nano Banana 2 Lite also replaces the original Nano Banana in Google's current lineup, with the original model now classified as legacy.

How Nano Banana 2 Lite Fits Into Google’s AI Image Lineup

Nano Banana 2 Lite is the third model in Google's Nano Banana image generation lineup. The original Nano Banana was launched last summer on Gemini 3.1 Flash. Nano Banana 2 followed in February, offering more realistic results and broader capabilities.

Google describes Nano Banana 2 as a "generalist workhorse," while the Lite version is designed for workflows that prioritize speed and scalability.

The company also offers Nano Banana Pro for use cases that demand higher image quality and more complex output. These three tiers follow a common trend among AI providers, who tend to differentiate models based on performance, cost, and speed rather than relying on a single model for all needs.

The pricing structure plays a key role in how Google is positioning the model. Priced at $0.034 per 1,000 images, Nano Banana 2 Lite aims to make large-scale image generation more routine and accessible for commercial workflows.

Its four-second generation time is designed for iterative and automated use cases, allowing teams to produce or test many variations quickly.

Google notes that the combination of speed and affordability makes the model better suited for high-volume workloads rather than applications requiring high precision.

Users who need higher fidelity results should continue to use Nano Banana 2 or Nano Banana Pro, depending on their specific requirements.

What Nano Banana 2 Lite Is Designed For

Nano Banana 2 Lite is built to support various workflows, including quickly testing different image variations during creative processes, generating large numbers of visual assets for marketing or product listings, and fitting into automated pipelines where image output is just one step among others. It also caters to advertising workflows that require high-volume content creation and testing.

The model aligns with Google's view that image generation tools should assist content creation rather than replace it, especially for businesses that need to produce and refine large amounts of material.

Nano Banana 2 Lite is now available through various channels:

Google AI Studio for interactive testing and prompt development, the Gemini API for developer integration, and the Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform for business workflows.

Developers can access the model using the same authentication and billing setup as other Gemini models. Google has not specified regional availability restrictions beyond mentioning standard Gemini API coverage.

To start using Nano Banana 2 Lite, developers can sign in to Google AI Studio or set up API access via the Gemini API documentation, then select Nano Banana 2 Lite from the model menu and submit prompts through the usual image generation endpoints. Usage and billing can be managed through the Google Cloud console.

Users of the original Nano Banana will need to migrate their workloads to either Nano Banana 2 Lite, Nano Banana 2, or Nano Banana Pro, depending on their specific use case, since the original model has been marked as legacy.

The release comes at a time when generative image and video tools are under increasing scrutiny. More online media is now created or assisted by AI, raising concerns about content quality and oversaturation.

Despite the ongoing debate, advertisers and marketing teams continue to invest in these tools because they provide clear operational benefits for rapid content testing and iteration.

Google's involvement with the entertainment industry has also attracted attention. A recent $75 million partnership between Google and indie studio A24 has sparked criticism from some audiences and creatives.

This reflects broader worries about how AI tools might influence the future of film and media production.

What Users Should Know Before Switching

For users still using the original Nano Banana model, the legacy label indicates that the model will eventually be phased out. Google has not provided a specific date for ending support, but users should consider transitioning to a newer tier that better fits their workflow.

For teams comparing image generation options, Nano Banana 2 Lite's pricing makes it competitive against other high-throughput models.

Those planning to incorporate the model into production should test its output quality against their specific needs before making a commitment, as the model prioritizes speed over maximum fidelity.

Google has not announced plans for additional models in the Nano Banana series or shared a roadmap for future updates. Nano Banana 2 Lite is currently available through the three listed platforms.

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After that date, new PlayStation games will be available only in digital formats through the PlayStation Store and participating retailers.

Sony assured that this change will not impact games that have already been released or titles planned to launch before January 2028. The announcement was made by Sid Shuman, senior director of content communications at Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Why Sony Is Ending Physical PlayStation Game Production

Shuman attributed the decision to changing consumer preferences and broader industry trends. The company notes that demand for digital media has considerably surpassed that for physical discs, and believes this shift will help Sony better meet how its community prefers to access and play games.

Sony has not released specific sales figures related to this decision. The company also did not specify how retailers will participate in digital distribution beyond the usual practice of selling download codes.

The transition applies to new PlayStation games released from January 2028 onward. Sony has stated that games already released will not be affected:

• Titles scheduled for release before January 2028 will still ship with physical discs where applicable.
• Digital distribution will continue through the PlayStation Store and participating retailers.

Sony has not specified whether PlayStation 5 or the upcoming PlayStation 6 will retain disc drives after 2028, or if existing disc-based games will remain playable on future hardware. The announcement on the blog only addressed the production of new physical titles.

Sony's announcement reflects a wider industry trend away from physical distribution. Rockstar Games recently confirmed that the physical edition of Grand Theft Auto 6, set to be released on November 12, 2026, will only include a download code in the box, with no disc. Sony's move formalizes this shift across its entire first-party and third-party publishing pipeline for PlayStation.

This change has several implications for users:

• Physical collections will no longer be expandable with new PlayStation releases after January 2028.
• Reselling newly released games will not be possible without a physical copy to transfer. Additionally, library access will rely entirely on account access and ongoing support for digital platforms.
• Storage requirements on PlayStation consoles will also increase, as all games will need to be downloaded.

Digital distribution tends to lower manufacturing and shipping costs for publishers, eliminates the risk of retail inventory shortages at launch, and provides immediate access for users without shipping delays.

What PlayStation Users Should Know Before 2028

For users who prefer owning physical copies of PlayStation games, the practical steps are to purchase physical copies of upcoming releases scheduled before January 2028 while they are still available.

It's important to preserve existing physical collections since they hold resale and archival value. Users should also verify their backup practices for save data, as digital-only titles rely on account access rather than physical media.

Additionally, ensure that your PlayStation console has enough storage or external SSD capacity to support an all-digital library.

Sony has not provided answers to several practical questions prompted by the announcement. These include whether future PlayStation consoles will include disc drives, if retailers will sell boxed download codes similar to the physical edition of GTA 6 or if all sales will shift online, and how the move will impact regions with limited digital distribution infrastructure.

Additionally, there is uncertainty around whether Sony's PS5 Pro and future PS6 pricing will be adjusted to account for the removal of manufacturing costs.

Sony has indicated that more details will be shared closer to the transition date in January 2028. Consumers planning to purchase based on physical availability should stay tuned to Sony's announcements in the coming months.

The end date for physical disc production is set for January 2028. Games released before that date will still be available on disc where publishers decide to include them, depending on individual publisher policies, such as Rockstar's approach with GTA 6.

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The case is scheduled for the upcoming term starting in October. The justices have not granted Apple's request to limit the injunction to Epic alone, which means the ruling will still impact all iOS developers.

The Supreme Court will determine whether Apple's response to the initial court order was permissible or if it constituted contempt. The court will not consider whether Apple has a monopoly.

What The Apple And Epic Case Is About

The 2021 injunction from U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers required Apple to allow developers to direct users to payment options outside of the App Store. The goal was to give developers a way to avoid Apple's standard 15% to 30% commission on in-app purchases.

Apple responded by permitting external payment links but introduced new restrictions and began charging a 27% commission on purchases made through those links within seven days of the link being tapped.

Epic Games argued that the 27% fee was not in compliance with the injunction. In April 2025, Rogers agreed and found that Apple had intentionally violated her order.

She directed Apple to stop charging fees on purchases made outside of its payment system. The Ninth Circuit upheld the finding of contempt in December 2025 and stated that Apple could return to the district court to argue what, if any, charges could be applied to digital goods purchased outside its system.

Apple stated, "This is an important question of law, and we are pleased the Supreme Court will hear our case." The company's argument is that it cannot be penalized for violating the "spirit" of an injunction rather than its specific wording.

Epic shared on X, saying, "We're heading to the Supreme Court where we'll continue to fight against junk fees Apple charges on third-party payments."

What The Supreme Court Will Decide

The Supreme Court's review will be more limited than Apple wanted. The justices decided not to consider whether the injunction should apply only to Epic or to the larger developer community.

The court's remaining question is whether Apple's actions, including the 27% external payment fee, amounted to contempt of the original injunction.

The ruling could have implications for App Store fee structures across the iOS ecosystem, depending on the court's decision. If Apple wins, it could validate similar fee practices for external payments.

If Epic prevails, it would mean Apple can't use fees to maintain most of its commission when developers use external payment systems.

The dispute has been ongoing since 2020:

• In August 2020, Epic added its own payment option to Fortnite, violating App Store rules.
• As a result, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store, and Epic filed a lawsuit.
• In September 2021, Judge Rogers ruled largely in Apple's favor, rejecting broad monopoly claims but ordering Apple to loosen its anti-steering rules. After appeals concluded, Apple introduced a 27 percent external payment commission in January 2024.
• In April 2025, Judge Rogers found Apple in contempt of the 2021 injunction and ordered the company to stop charging fees on outside purchases.
• The Ninth Circuit upheld this contempt finding in December 2025. Fortnite returned to the US iOS App Store in 2026 after nearly five years. Currently, the Supreme Court has agreed to hear Apple's appeal.

What Developers And Users Should Know

For developers currently using external payment links under the injunction, the status of the 27% fee remains contested during the appeal.

Apple's fee structure has been paused due to the contempt ruling, but the Supreme Court's upcoming decision could restore, modify, or eliminate it depending on the outcome.

Developers should continue to use external payment links where permitted under current rulings and monitor the Supreme Court proceedings for updates on the fee structure.

It is also advisable to prepare business plans for both possible outcomes, as the ruling could significantly impact the economics of external payments.

For users, the immediate impact of the case is limited. Purchases made through external payment links currently do not include the disputed 27% fee.

However, if the Supreme Court reinstates or changes the fee, developers may need to adjust their prices, which could lead to costs being passed on to users.

The Supreme Court is expected to hear the case in its next term starting in October. A decision is unlikely to come until later in the term. Both users and developers can keep track of the case through the Supreme Court's website as proceedings unfold.

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The ISO files can be found on the project's GitHub page. Azure Linux 4 is still in preview, and Microsoft advises against using it in production environments. Both x86-64 and Arm64 images are offered.

The ISO files are not located in the usual GitHub Releases section, which mainly includes kernel builds. Instead, users need to scroll down to the Using Azure Linux section and expand the ISO Installer subsection to find the images.

What Azure Linux 4 Is Designed For

Azure Linux 4 is the successor to Azure Linux 3, which itself evolved from Microsoft's earlier CBL-Mariner distribution. Unlike its predecessors, which were based on VMware Photon OS, Azure Linux 4 sources most of its packages and metadata from Fedora. As part of the transition, Microsoft has shifted configuration files from .spec to TOML format.

The current build identifies itself as "Four Beta" and runs on kernel 6.18 with systemd 258.4. Although it is derived from Fedora, Azure Linux 4 is not compatible with Fedora packages. Only two repositories are enabled by default:

• azurelinux-base
• azurelinux-microsoft, both hosted at packages.microsoft.com/azurelinux/.

The available package selection is limited; common tools such as less and htop are not included in the default installation and are not available for installation.

Azure Linux 4 is intended for use inside Azure virtual machines as part of automated deployment pipelines. The ISO version is mainly for testing and not meant for general desktop or bare-metal installation.

The distribution does not come with a graphical desktop environment like GNOME, and Microsoft has not announced plans to include one. Users who want a container-focused host should consider Azure Container Linux instead, which is Microsoft's dedicated distribution for the Azure Kubernetes Service. It is available separately on GitHub.

What To Expect From The Preview ISO

The Azure Linux 4 preview has modest resource requirements. It has a download size of 1 GB, requires 1.1 GB of disk space, and needs 359 MB of RAM.

The installation process is straightforward, using a simple command-line tool. By default, it sets up an LVM configuration with memory ballooning enabled.

This distribution can run inside local Hyper-V virtual machines as well as Azure VMs, making it accessible for developers testing workloads before deploying to Azure infrastructure.

Azure Linux 4 features the dnf package manager, allowing users to easily install additional software from available repositories. The distribution is not intended to be an immutable container host, which means administrators have the flexibility to customize their installations for specific workloads within the range of available packages.

Microsoft has not released a detailed package roadmap, and the current repository selection reflects the preview status of the release.

How To Try Azure Linux 4 Locally

To download and try out Azure Linux 4 locally, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Azure Linux 4 GitHub page and scroll down to the section titled 'Using Azure Linux.'
2. Expand the 'ISO Installer' subsection and choose either the x86-64 or Arm64 image depending on your needs.
3. Create a virtual machine using Hyper-V, VirtualBox, VMware, or another hypervisor.
4. Boot the VM from the ISO file you downloaded and proceed with the command-line installation prompts.

It is important to note that Azure Linux 4 is still in preview, so it should not be used in production environments. The preview status indicates that the distribution may have bugs, incomplete package selections, or behaviors that could change before it becomes generally available.

Microsoft's published lifecycle documentation states that Azure Linux 4 will use long-term support kernels and receive monthly security updates. Some reports have mentioned a two-year update cycle, but this has not been confirmed in the official lifecycle documentation.

Azure Linux 4 illustrates Microsoft's ongoing effort to bring more of its infrastructure toolchain in-house. The company migrated LinkedIn to Azure Linux two years ago, eliminating its reliance on the now-end-of-life CentOS Linux distribution.

Moving to Fedora as an upstream source with Azure Linux 4 reduces another dependency on VMware Photon OS, which was used in earlier versions.

This transition also supports a broader industry trend away from Broadcom's VMware, with companies like Tesco and T-Mobile reported to be shifting their infrastructure away from VMware as well.

What Users Should Know Before Installing

For users interested in trying out Azure Linux 4, the ISO downloads offer the first chance to test the distribution locally. It's recommended to download and test in a virtual machine environment only.

Use it for evaluating packaging and configuration changes from earlier versions of Azure Linux.

Do not use it for production workloads or mission-critical systems. Keep an eye on the GitHub repository for updates as the preview moves toward general availability.

Microsoft has not announced a specific release date for Azure Linux 4. Users planning to migrate from Azure Linux 3 should follow the preview on GitHub and check Microsoft's official documentation for guidance on when it will be ready for production.

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The Switch 2 release brings Oblivion Remastered to Nintendo's console more than a year after it was released on other platforms in 2025. The remastered version surpassed 9 million players in its first three months after launch.

Pricing And Editions For Switch 2

Oblivion Remastered for Nintendo Switch 2 will be offered in two editions: a standard digital version priced at $49.99, and a physical edition costing $59.99.

The physical edition features a cartridge that contains the full game. This complete-on-cartridge approach is noteworthy because recent Switch 2 releases often include only partial content, requiring users to download additional data.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has demonstrated performance close to the Xbox Series S in several scenarios, largely due to NVIDIA DLSS upscaling technology. Digital Foundry recently noted that the Xbox Series S has effectively served as an optimization target that has helped make Switch 2 ports more feasible for developers.

While performance details for Oblivion Remastered on Switch 2 have not been released, the Switch 2's DLSS capabilities are likely being used to help the game run at acceptable frame rates and image quality on the handheld console.

Performance And Platform Availability

Oblivion Remastered has not seen an update since version 1.2, which was released in July 2025. The absence of updates has frustrated some players on other platforms, as several issues have remained unresolved since the game's launch.

The upcoming Switch 2 release might bring some improvements to the existing versions on other platforms, but Bethesda has not confirmed whether patch parity will be maintained across all platforms with the Switch 2 launch. Players on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC hoping for updates will need to wait until closer to the August 11 release date.

Oblivion Remastered is set to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on August 11, 2026. Both digital and physical editions can be pre-ordered through the Nintendo eShop and select retailers. The game is also available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Game Pass from the existing release.

What Existing Players Should Know

When choosing a platform, players should consider:

• Nintendo Switch 2: Portable gaming at $49.99 for the digital version or $59.99 for the physical cartridge, which includes a full-cartridge option.
• Xbox Series X|S: Included with an Xbox Game Pass subscription.
• PC: Available via Steam with the highest possible graphics settings.
• PS5: Standard release for PlayStation 5.

For those who already own Oblivion Remastered on another platform, the Switch 2 version will need to be purchased separately, as it is not a cross-buy. Transfer of save files between different platforms is not supported.

Oblivion Remastered arrived in 2025 as a significant update to the 2006 original, featuring updated visuals, quality-of-life improvements, and gameplay refinements.

Its quick popularity after launch made it one of Bethesda's most successful re-releases and helped introduce the game to a new generation of players through Xbox Game Pass.

The Nintendo Switch 2 port continues a trend of major third-party titles arriving on Nintendo's console, following recent ports and rumors of upcoming high-profile releases.

Bethesda's Starfield recently received a Nintendo Switch 2 rating in some regions, fueling speculation that more Bethesda games might soon be available on Nintendo's platform.

Oblivion Remastered will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 starting August 11, 2026, with digital versions priced at $49.99 and physical copies at $59.99.

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This provides users with a proper option to make the entire taskbar smaller, not just the icons. The update is available for Windows Insiders testing the Experimental channel and is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative, which aims to address longstanding issues with Windows 11.

The new setting allows users to reduce both the height of the taskbar and the size of its icons when set to Small. It is also possible to keep the taskbar at its default height while using small icons.

What Changed And Other Changes in Build 26300.8758

Earlier Insider builds offered an option to "show smaller taskbar buttons," but this setting only reduced the icons' size.

The height of the taskbar itself stayed the same. The new dedicated Taskbar Size toggle solves this by providing a true resize option. Microsoft announced in the build's release notes:

"Taskbar customization just got easier. As we continue to improve the Taskbar experience mentioned last month, we've added a dedicated Taskbar Size setting to make it easier to find, understand, and personalize your ideal taskbar."

Transitioning between different taskbar sizes has also been improved to create a smoother overall experience. The update includes several additional improvements:

File Explorer:

• Thumbnails for cloud files now preview more reliably in the Details pane
• The Details pane has been reorganized to make file properties easier to find and review
• An issue has been fixed where the OneDrive shortcut stopped working when File Explorer was run as administrator
• The Recycle Bin bug reported earlier has been addressed. Previously, the confirmation dialog showed an internal filename instead of the original when deleting a file permanently

Sounds:

• System sounds have been improved when using Windows in dark mode

Other:

• Xbox mode has been renamed to XBOX mode, which is a change noted in this build

The fix for the Recycle Bin confirms an earlier acknowledgment from Microsoft about a bug present since the June 2026 Patch Tuesday update. It caused the confirmation dialog to display an internal filename instead of the original.

The changes to the taskbar are part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative, a larger effort to address long-standing complaints about Windows 11. Since its release, Windows 11's taskbar has been a subject of controversy, especially because Microsoft removed features available in Windows 10, such as the ability to move the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen.

Since earlier this year, Windows Insiders have been able to move the taskbar freely. The introduction of proper resize controls addresses another common concern.

Taken together, these updates provide a level of taskbar flexibility that Windows 10 users have had for years, but Windows 11 previously lacked.

What This Means For Windows 11 Users

For users who prefer more compact interfaces or use smaller screens, being able to shrink the taskbar can free up valuable screen space.

Currently, this setting is only available in the Experimental channel, so most users will need to wait until it reaches stable Windows 11 builds through a future update.

If you want to try the feature now, you can join the Windows Insider Program and switch to the Experimental channel via Settings, Windows Update, and Windows Insider Program. Keep in mind that testing pre-release builds can cause stability issues and is generally recommended only on secondary devices.

Microsoft has not announced when the Taskbar Size setting will be available in the stable channel. Based on the current pace of development for taskbar features, it is reasonable to expect that this option will be included in a future monthly update for all Windows 11 users.

This change reflects a broader pattern of Microsoft responding to user feedback on Windows 11 design and functionality, including recent decisions like canceling the AI-powered history search in Edge, extending Windows Update pause options, and adding toggles to disable Bing web results in Windows Search.

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The launch comes as the US Department of Commerce lifts export restrictions on Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5. Starting Wednesday, Anthropic will restore global access to these two models.

Sonnet 5 is available with introductory API pricing of $2 per million input tokens and $10 per million output tokens through August 31, 2026.

After that, standard pricing will be $3 per million input tokens and $15 per million output tokens. The model is now accessible to Free, Pro, and Max subscribers.

What Makes Claude's Sonnet 5 Different

Anthropic describes Sonnet 5 as the most agentic Sonnet model yet. The model features capabilities that were previously mostly limited to Opus 4.8, such as multi-step planning, use of tools including browsers and terminals, self-verification of its output without explicit prompts, better instruction following, and improved agentic search across large codebases.

These enhancements target users who rely on Claude for coding, research, automation, and document work.

Sonnet 4.6 was generally seen as weaker in planning and understanding large codebases, but Sonnet 5 appears to significantly close that gap.

The pricing model positions Sonnet 5 as a budget-friendly alternative to Opus 4.8 when considering performance. During the introductory period through August 31, 2026, Sonnet 5 costs $2 per million tokens for input and $10 for output.

The standard version is priced at $3 for input and $15 for output per million tokens. By comparison, Opus 4.8 costs $5 per million tokens for input and $25 for output. At standard pricing,

Sonnet 5 is roughly 60% less expensive than Opus 4.8. Users can choose between the two based on their preferences for cost savings or maximum performance.

Benchmark tests from BrowseComp and OSWorld-Verified support the performance claims, indicating that Sonnet 5 performs noticeably closer to Opus 4.8 than Sonnet 4.6 did.

Why Fable 5 And Mythos 5 Are Returning

The release of Sonnet 5 comes as Anthropic restores access to Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5.

These models had been offline for two and a half weeks following a U.S. government order restricting foreign national access, citing national security concerns.

Anthropic announced on X that the Department of Commerce has lifted export controls on both models. Starting Wednesday, access is being restored to global users and business customers.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that the government had worked closely with Anthropic over the past two weeks to assess and approve Fable 5 and to support U.S. leadership in AI.

A letter from Lutnick to Anthropic, cited by multiple outlets, noted that the company had coordinated with the government to proactively identify and address security risks related to the models.

Anthropic has committed to inform the government if it detects any malicious activities involving the models. Lutnick's letter also warned that the Trump administration reserves the right to reimpose restrictions in the future if circumstances change or if Anthropic fails to meet its commitments.

White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles expressed gratitude to industries working closely with the White House to implement the President's executive order on promoting advanced AI innovation and security.

She noted ongoing efforts around model access, guardrails, testing, and security, emphasizing that the priority remains deploying the best technology as quickly as possible.

Which Claude Model Users Should Choose

Anthropic's paid tiers give users immediate access to Sonnet 5 through the Claude app, Claude Code, and the Anthropic API. Free-tier users can also access the model.

For those who were temporarily locked out of Fable 5 and Mythos 5 during the two-week suspension, access is being gradually restored starting Wednesday.

Pro, Max, and Enterprise plan users should see the models reappear in their model selection menus.

When choosing a model, users can consider the following:

• Sonnet 5: Offers the best cost-performance balance for most tasks involving agency and coding.
• Opus 4.8: Provides maximum performance for the most demanding tasks.
• Fable 5: Shares architecture with Mythos and includes safety guardrails; it will be available at usage-based pricing after the free period ending June 22.
• Mythos 5: Restricted to vetted partners, including government cyberdefenders and certain life sciences researchers.

The ongoing developments demonstrate Anthropic's efforts to balance expanding its business with navigating government regulations.

The launch of Fable 5 in June, its subsequent suspension, and now its reinstatement alongside a more affordable Sonnet release show how Anthropic is refining its product lineup while dealing with increasingly complex rules for advanced AI models.

The release of Sonnet 5 also strengthens Anthropic's position against OpenAI. Recently, OpenAI delayed the public rollout of GPT-5.6 at the request of the US government, which limited access to selected partners.

With Sonnet 5 now available and Fable 5 returning, Anthropic offers a wider range of accessible models for developers and users than OpenAI in the near future.

Sonnet 5 is available now. Access to Fable 5 and Mythos 5 will be restored starting Wednesday for eligible users.

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The new version introduces nine additional tools, updates to the NetHunter Android platform, and brings new versions of the desktop environments GNOME 50 and KDE Plasma 6.6.

It also includes the latest kernel, version 6.19. Users running Kali in a virtual machine can expect much faster boot times thanks to changes in how graphics firmware is managed.

The distribution is aimed at cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers, providing tools for penetration testing, security audits, and network research.

New Tools In Kali Linux 2026.2

Kali Linux 2026.2 adds nine new tools to its network repositories. These include:

• arsenal-ng, a Go-based command library with over 200 cybersecurity cheat sheets;
• hydra-gtk, a reintroduced GTK+ graphical interface for the network logon cracker;
• legba, a multiprotocol credentials bruteforcer, password sprayer, and enumerator;
• oletools, an analyzer for MS OLE2 files and Microsoft Office documents;
• penelope, a shell handler;
• shell-gpt, an AI-powered command-line productivity tool;
• tailscale, a platform for secure networking;
• tookie-osint, a tool for gathering open-source intelligence to find social media accounts; and
• uro, a URL decluttering tool designed for crawling and penetration testing. The Kali team also updated its service helper scripts to improve service management. These updates include functions for checking service status, listing default credentials, and retrieving access information for active services.

Faster VM Boot Times And Desktop Updates

Starting with Kali Linux 2026.2, the pre-built VM images no longer include graphics firmware. The installer images can now detect virtual machine environments and skip installing graphics firmware accordingly.

This change results in a significantly smaller initrd, reduced from 200MB to 60MB, and boot times that are roughly three times faster for QEMU virtual machines on a Linux host, according to the Kali Team.

Actual performance improvements may vary depending on the hardware and configuration. For users running Kali Linux on physical hardware, nothing changes. The default remains a 200MB initrd with all graphics firmware included. Those who want to optimize can manually remove the unneeded firmware.

Kali Linux 2026.2 includes updates to both major desktop environments. It now ships with GNOME 50, which features UI refinements, and KDE Plasma 6.6.

Both desktops have seen significant updates that enhance performance and visual appeal. Users can select either desktop environment during installation or opt to install both on a single system.

NetHunter, Kernel, And Upgrade Changes

The Android-based NetHunter platform has received several significant updates. Support for standalone kernel flashing using Magisk has been added, allowing users to open any new kernel installer zip directly in the Magisk app if it was built with kali-nethunter-installer.

New kernels now include qcacld3 injection support, and there are updated kernels for additional Android versions and device models. More phones can now run NetHunter Pro with bare-metal support.

The Kali NetHunter app launches faster than before, improving user experience. The update also addresses bugs related to custom commands and the chroot manager.

A new EvilTwin tab has been introduced, featuring a Wi-Fi Fake Access Point with a password verification captive portal. Additionally, an iptables fix ensures that the Android Hotspot function works properly after using Wifipumpkin3 or EvilTwin.

The Kali Linux kernel has been updated to version 6.19. The newer 7.0 kernel is also available in the kali-experimental repository for users interested in testing the latest release.

Existing Kali Linux users can upgrade from a previous version using these commands:

1. Ensure the correct repository is configured:

   echo "deb http://http.kali.org/kali kali-rolling main contrib non-free non-free-firmware" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list

2. Update package lists and upgrade:

   sudo apt update && sudo apt -y full-upgrade

3. Copy skeleton files to home directory:

   cp -vrbi /etc/skel/. ~/

4. Reboot if required:

   [ -f /var/run/reboot-required ] && sudo reboot -f

After upgrading, verify the version with:

grep VERSION /etc/os-release

How To Get Kali Linux 2026.2

For new installations, ISO images and virtual machine images can be downloaded from Kali's official website. The distribution supports a wide variety of hardware, including Raspberry Pi devices, Android phones through NetHunter, and standard desktop or laptop PCs.

Users running Windows Subsystem for Linux should upgrade to WSL 2 to better support graphical applications. The WSL version can be checked using a command in Windows Command Prompt.

Kali Linux 2026.2 is a rolling release update. Users who install the distribution now will receive ongoing updates through the standard package management channels, eliminating the need for reinstallation for future releases.

The full changelog for Kali Linux 2026.2 is available on Kali's website. Kali Linux 2026.2 is now available as a free download from kali.org.

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The company publicly admitted in a Reddit post that it spent more than seven months developing the product without asking Valve for approval.

The Portal-inspired Companion Cube case was available for pre-order starting June 22 at a price of 99 dollars. It became dbrand's second-fastest-selling product in its 15-year history before being removed from sale. All pre-orders are being refunded.

What Happened Between dbrand And Valve

The case started as a joke shortly after the Steam Machine was announced. Consumer interest encouraged dbrand to turn it into a real product.

The company reported that over seven months, more than 1,000 hours of engineering went into developing the case, along with the creation of 44 sets of injection molding tools.

In a Reddit post, dbrand mentioned, "We built the idea into something real without ever asking Valve if we could. We're going to regret that decision for a very long time."

The company also pointed out that it was losing money on each $99 case sold but described it as a passion project.

Pre-orders for the case opened on June 22. Shortly after, Valve's legal team contacted dbrand. Valve's lawyers stated that the Companion Cube is Valve intellectual property for which dbrand did not have a license, and requested that dbrand take down the product and the associated launch film immediately.

dbrand characterized Valve's actions as "direct, fair, and respectful." The company attempted to retroactively secure a license, but Valve declined.

What Customers Should Expect

All pre-orders placed during the brief sales window are being refunded today. Customers do not need to take action to receive their refunds. The original product listing page now redirects to dbrand's explanatory Reddit post.

dbrand has not announced any replacement product or alternative design for Steam Machine owners who were interested in the case.

The 44 sets of injection molding tools developed for the cube design cannot be repurposed for unlicensed Portal-themed products.

The incident serves as a clear example of a company openly admitting to a significant mistake. dbrand directly stated, "Being proud of the thing we made did not give us the right to make it."

The company also acknowledged that "Valve didn't do anything wrong here. We should have asked first." When a Reddit user called dbrand "fucking stupid," the company's official account simply replied, "Yes."

What This Means For Third-Party Steam Machine Accessories

The incident underscores the limitations of unofficial product development for licensed intellectual property, even when manufacturers have good intentions.

For other companies thinking about creating Steam Machine accessories, the key takeaway is clear: licensing approval should be obtained before starting development, not afterward.

Valve has provided CAD files for the outer shell of the Steam Machine, enabling third-party manufacturers to produce custom faceplates.

This officially supported option allows accessory makers to participate in the Steam Machine ecosystem without infringing on Valve’s IP.

However, unlicensed designs that incorporate Valve-owned characters, settings, or assets still require formal licensing agreements.

For users hoping to purchase the Companion Cube case, there has been no announcement of a licensed version. Currently, the only way to customize a Steam Machine is through third-party designs based on Valve’s released CAD files, with custom faceplates becoming the most accessible option.

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These groups are linked to Russia's intelligence and military agencies. This offer is part of the State Department's Rewards for Justice program.

The groups have carried out extensive phishing campaigns targeting Signal and WhatsApp accounts of U.S. government officials, military leaders, and allied personnel.

UNC5792 is associated with the Russian Federal Security Service Border Guards, while UNC4221 is described as operating on behalf of Russian military services.

Last week, the FBI and CISA updated a March 2026 advisory with new tactics observed in attacks attributed to these groups.

What The U.S. Government Wants To Know

The U.S. government is seeking information regarding the UNC5792 group and their support personnel. They want details on the names, locations, biographies, and affiliations of these actors and their team members.

Additionally, they are interested in connections to Russian intelligence agencies, contractors, and third-party service providers. The request includes information about the group's operational infrastructure, such as domains, servers, hosting environments, data storage solutions, tools, frameworks, and software used.

They are also looking into funding sources, financial accounts, banking relationships, and payment methods. Finally, they seek details on cryptocurrency wallets, blockchain transactions, and financial networks that support the group's operations.

The attacks do not exploit vulnerabilities in Signal's or WhatsApp's encryption. Instead, they rely on social engineering tactics aimed at users to obtain access details.

According to FBI and CISA, attackers pose as Signal support representatives in direct messages, claiming a mandatory two-factor verification is needed.

This is a scam designed to persuade users to share their Signal Backup Recovery Key, which provides access to their previous communications on the platform.

Once the attackers have the backup key, they can restore the victim's Signal data to a device they control and view past messages.

The US government has confirmed that thousands of individual accounts have been compromised across both Signal and WhatsApp through these methods.

Who Is At Risk And How To Stay Protected

The main targets include:

• US and NATO government officials, diplomatic and defense personnel, intelligence officials, policy analysts, journalists covering Russia and Ukraine.
• NGOs supporting Ukraine, security researchers, and specialists in Russian affairs.

Although the focus is mostly on individuals in government and policy roles, the techniques employed can be modified to target any high-value person.

Users on Signal and WhatsApp should follow these practices to stay protected:

1. Never share Signal Backup Recovery Keys with anyone, regardless of how legitimate the request appears.
2. Be aware that Signal support never asks for verification codes or recovery keys within the app or through unsolicited messages.
3. Treat any request to verify or restore your account via links or codes as likely phishing.
4. Verify the source of any communication claiming to be from Signal or WhatsApp by visiting the official support page directly through the app or company website.
5. Enable two-factor authentication for your accounts using a separate authentication app, not via SMS.
6. Remain especially cautious if you work in or with government, defense, journalism, or NGO sectors, as these are common targets.

Signal's official support team communicates only through official email addresses and does not send in-app direct messages or outreach through unsolicited contacts.

How to Report Information About Russian Hackers

Anyone with information that could help identify or find members of UNC5792 or UNC4221 is encouraged to contact the Rewards for Justice program.

Tips can be submitted through its website or via encrypted channels designed for sensitive sources. The $10 million reward is among the highest offered by the program, indicating the serious and ongoing threat posed.

Past cases have seen rewards paid for information leading to the identification or capture of state-sponsored cyber actors.

The bounty announcement is part of the broader US response to Russian cyber operations targeting US and allied interests.

The attacks on Signal and WhatsApp do not indicate a vulnerability in the platforms themselves but show how attackers are adapting to encrypted messaging by targeting users directly instead of exploiting encryption.

For those not in the targeted groups, these attacks serve as a reminder that even highly encrypted messaging services can be compromised through social engineering.

Maintaining good operational security, such as being cautious with unsolicited messages and protecting recovery keys, remains important regardless of the strength of the encryption.

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