HWiNFO 8.52 has been released, offering users an extensive suite of system information tools that encompass detailed hardware analysis, real-time monitoring, and reporting capabilities for both Windows and DOS environments. The software is also available in a portable format for convenience.
Smart Defrag 12.0.0.536 released
IObit has launched Smart Defrag 12.0.0.536, an advanced tool designed to defragment files, folders, and entire drives, ensuring optimal performance for your computer. Users can choose to run defragmentation on an as-needed basis or schedule it for regular maintenance. The software also includes SSD trimming capabilities that enhance the performance and longevity of solid-state drives.
Microsoft PowerToys v0.101 Stable: On-Device AI, Window Hopper, and WinUI 3 Modernization
Microsoft PowerToys v0.101 has been released in stable form following a rapid eight-day preview period, introducing several significant features such as Window Hopper for app-specific window switching and on-device AI integration in Advanced Paste. This version also includes an opt-in compact mode for the Command Palette, formalizes a Stable and Insider channel update split, and enhances various modules with improvements. Notably, Quick Accent and Mouse Jump have transitioned to the WinUI 3 framework, while other utilities like ZoomIt and PowerDisplay have received functional upgrades. The release reflects Microsoft's commitment to integrating local AI capabilities and improving user experience, while also indicating a potential future development of a native OS-level per-app switcher
Windows Server vNext Build 29651 Adds Trusted Launch, NVMe-oF, and ReFS Boot
Microsoft has released Windows Server vNext Preview Build 29651, which introduces Azure-native Trusted Launch security, NVMe-over-Fabrics support, and allows ReFS to be used as a boot volume for the first time. This update emphasizes the need for clean installations, as upgrades from older preview versions are not supported, and includes new features like Quick Machine Recovery for automatic cloud-based boot remediation. Additionally, the update adds a native NVMe-over-Fabrics initiator to improve storage communication and the Feedback Hub app for easier bug reporting directly from desktop editions. The release marks Microsoft's effort to achieve feature parity between Azure and on-premises solutions while addressing operational challenges faced by IT teams
HiFi Control 1.6.0 released
HiFi Control has recently launched version 1.6.0, enhancing its role as a centralized platform for managing high-fidelity audio devices and their players. This application boasts a modern design, allowing users to quickly engage with its features. It supports various multi-room audio frameworks, enabling users to easily add and pair devices with their chosen players. The intuitive interface streamlines control over amplifiers and players, facilitating efficient monitoring of audio settings such as volume and source.
Bottles 66.9 Released: Five Hotfixes Wrap Up the Aggressive 66.x Linux Compatibility Sprint
Bottles 66.9 has been released as a hotfix that integrates xz and dconf into its experimental cpak containerized runtime, addressing issues with custom bottle folders and game process termination. This update concludes an intense 15-day period during which ten versions were launched, building on the major features introduced in the 66.0 release, such as native UMU integration and Adaptive Launch. The focus of the 66.x cycle has been to eliminate friction points in running Windows software on Linux, enhancing user experience with reliable operation of bottle folders and better process management. Overall, Bottles 66.9 marks a significant step towards a seamless Windows-on-Linux experience, making the cpak runtime more viable for daily use
LibreOffice 26.8 Release: Zero AI, Advanced Typography, and N'Ko Adlam Script Support
LibreOffice 26.8 has been released with a focus on typographic quality, support for complex writing systems such as N'Ko and Adlam, and improved document exchange fidelity, while intentionally excluding AI features. The update includes automatic bidirectional text handling, a new paragraph composer for balanced word spacing, and compatibility improvements for OOXML chart types, ensuring that document definitions remain intact during edits. It also enhances the Calc and Impress applications with new functionalities such as calculated fields in pivot tables and support for multiple page sizes in presentations. LibreOffice emphasizes digital sovereignty by advocating for open document formats and providing a robust suite available across multiple platforms without requiring network access, ensuring data confidentiality
BootRacer 9.60.2026.826 released
BootRacer has released version 9.60.2026.826, a freeware tool designed to measure the boot speed of Windows operating systems. Users can evaluate their boot performance and receive a boot rating, which indicates whether their startup time is good, average, or excellent. The software is user-friendly, making it accessible even for those with limited technical skills. It tracks the logon duration as well as the complete boot time, providing comprehensive insights into system performance. Additionally, BootRacer can document results in the Windows event log and offers a feature to clean up logs and unnecessary files through its Uninstall function. Notably, it operates with minimal resource usage, ensuring it does not significantly impact system performance while running.
Tree Style Tab for Firefox 4.4.1 released
The Tree Style Tab extension for Firefox, version 4.4.1, has been released, offering users a streamlined method to manage their tabs through a side-tree view. This extension is akin to Treely: Tree Style Tab Manager, serving similar functionalities but created by a different developer.
ManicTime 2026.2.2 released
ManicTime version 2026.2.2 has been released, enhancing its functionality as a time management tool that operates discreetly in the background to monitor daily activities. This software eliminates the need for manual time tracking, allowing users to focus on their work without the hassle of starting or stopping a timer. At the end of the workday, users can analyze the collected data for precise time tracking.
Visual Studio Code 1.135 Brings Agent Host Protocol, Cross-Model Rubber Duck Review, and Portable Sessions
Visual Studio Code 1.135 introduces the Agent Host Protocol, which allows coding sessions to transition seamlessly between applications while utilizing AI agents. An experimental feature called "Rubber Duck" enables AI models to review each other's work, significantly improving performance on coding benchmarks. The update also includes the ability to resume work from other tools through External Agent Sessions, although this requires a Copilot subscription. Microsoft has reverted the sandboxing feature to focus on developing the new host infrastructure and a streamlined user interface, emphasizing a commitment to making VS Code a universal runtime for AI coding agents
Wappalyzer for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge 6.12.6 released
Wappalyzer has released version 6.12.6 of its browser extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. This tool is designed to identify and reveal the various technologies employed by websites, including content management systems, eCommerce platforms, web servers, JavaScript frameworks, and analytic tools, among others. By utilizing Wappalyzer, users can gain insights into the underlying technologies that power the websites they visit, enhancing their understanding of web development and technology trends.
OCR - Image Reader for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge 0.5.3 released
The OCR - Image Reader extension, now at version 0.5.3, is available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers, and it simplifies the process of converting images to text through advanced optical character recognition (OCR) technology. This extension features a user-friendly toolbar button that allows users to select any portion of the active window for text extraction. Utilizing the robust Tesseract OCR engine and the "tesseract.js" library, the extension can automatically detect text orientation and scripts, supporting over 100 languages.
AnyTXT Searcher 1.3.3514 released
AnyTXT Searcher is a robust search utility designed to streamline targeted searches within documents. This powerful, straightforward local data full-text search engine functions effectively as a desktop search application, ensuring rapid file retrieval, especially when searches by name prove ineffective.
DLSS Swapper 1.2.6.1 released
The latest release of DLSS Swapper, version 1.2.6.1, brings an innovative solution for gamers looking to optimize their gaming experience. This versatile tool allows users to easily download, manage, and swap DLL files for various upscaling technologies, including NVIDIA's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), and Intel's Xe Super Sampling (XeSS).
The Bat! Home Edition 12.3.1 released
The Bat! Home Edition 12.3.1 has been released, designed to efficiently manage the increasing influx of emails and save users valuable time. This robust email client features a user-friendly interface that caters to both advanced users and beginners, making it accessible for everyone. Notably, it emphasizes security, boasting a virus-proof email system that ensures safe communication without compromising ease of use.
MiTeC Task Manager Deluxe 5.1.0 released
MiTeC Task Manager Deluxe 5.1.0 has been released, providing users with a robust and portable alternative to the standard Windows Task Manager. This tool enhances the basic functionalities found in Windows Task Manager, which is user-friendly but offers limited depth in process management and monitoring.
XnConvert 1.116.0 released
XnConvert version 1.116.0 has been released, enhancing its reputation as a user-friendly yet powerful image conversion tool, developed by the creators of the renowned XnView and XnView MP applications. A portable version is also available for users who prefer mobile solutions.
Ollama 0.33.0 released
Ollama has recently launched version 0.33.0, a local-first platform designed to bring large language models (LLMs) directly to users' desktops without any reliance on cloud services. This innovative software allows developers and privacy-conscious users to run advanced models such as LLaMA 3.3, Phi-4, and Mistral entirely offline, ensuring data security and personalization. Installation is straightforward—users can simply download and set up Ollama, and once running, they can access it via Command Prompt or PowerShell.
EA App 13.778.0.6291 released
The EA App version 13.778.0.6291 has been officially released, marking a significant step in EA's evolution of its PC gaming platform. Designed to ultimately replace the older Origin platform, the EA App aims to enhance the overall gaming experience for users by addressing feedback and incorporating new features.
Q-Dir 12.77 released
Q-Dir, a powerful free file management tool, has released its version 12.77, enhancing the way users navigate and organize files across various storage devices, including hard drives, network folders, and USB drives. Unlike the standard Windows File Explorer, which is sufficient for basic tasks, Q-Dir offers a more efficient solution with its unique quad-pane interface, allowing users to view and manage up to four folders simultaneously. This feature significantly simplifies the processes of copying, moving, and organizing files.
Mountain Duck 5.3.2 released
Mountain Duck is a powerful utility designed for Windows and macOS that enables users to mount remote storage services such as FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, Amazon S3, and Google Cloud as local drives. By doing so, it allows users to seamlessly open, save, and edit files directly from their cloud storage without the need for cumbersome syncing or switching between applications. This software is particularly beneficial for those who work with remote servers and cloud storage, providing a more efficient workflow.
Viber 28.6.1.0 released
Viber has recently released version 28.6.1.0, enhancing its functionality as a cross-platform VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) application that enables users to send free messages and make free calls to other Viber users, regardless of the device, network, or location. The app automatically syncs contacts, messages, and call history with your mobile device, ensuring that users can stay connected without missing important communications.
MailWasher Free 8.5.1 released
MailWasher Free 8.5.1 has been released, offering users a powerful tool to manage their email effectively. This software enables users to preview emails from multiple accounts before downloading them, giving them the ability to assess the content and safety of their messages. Key features include the option to delete unwanted emails or bounce them back to the sender, who will receive a notification stating that the address is unknown.
nomacs - Image Lounge 3.23.3 Beta Pre-Release / 3.22.2 released
Nomacs - Image Lounge has released a new beta version, 3.23.3, while the stable version 3.22.2 is now available. This image viewer is recognized for its lightweight and efficient functionality, supporting a wide range of image formats, including PSD and RAW files. Nomacs facilitates an intuitive user experience by providing thumbnail previews of the current folder and a file explorer panel for seamless navigation between directories.
Microsoft PowerToys v0.101.2373.0 Preview Adds CLI Shims and 0.102 Roadmap
Microsoft released PowerToys Preview v0.101.2373.0 on August 26, 2026, shortly after the stable v0.101 build, indicating a return to active development. This preview adds command-line shims for utilities like FancyZones and Image Resizer, enabling scriptable automation and system administration tasks. The update also includes improvements such as enhanced installer reliability and better Keyboard Manager performance across restarts. Looking ahead, the v0.102 roadmap aims for continued modernization, tabbed navigation for Command Palette, and support for JavaScript and TypeScript extensions
HyperSnap 10.3.1 released
HyperSnap has announced the release of version 10.3.1, an advanced screen capture and image editing tool that simplifies the process of capturing screens from any source, including full-screen games. This software offers a unique TextSnap feature that enables users to capture editable text even from areas where standard copying isn't possible, making it particularly useful for extracting information from various applications and games.
Process Lasso 18.3.0.19 Beta / 18.2.3.42 released
Process Lasso has recently released version 18.3.0.19 Beta and a stable version 18.2.3.42. This powerful, free tool is designed to optimize the management and operation of processes and services on your computer, enhancing overall system performance.
Mozilla Thunderbird Eclipse ESR 140.14.1 released
Mozilla Thunderbird Eclipse ESR 140.14.1 has been released, showcasing its versatility as a free email application that excels in customization and user experience. A portable version is also available for those who prefer mobility.
Reviews Roundup: Corsair and HYTE Cases, B850 Motherboards, and Quiet Cooling
Corsair and HYTE are innovating the mid-range case market with the wood-paneled FRAME 5000D WOOD RS and the affordable HYTE Y50 RGB, which features a curved glass design. Cooler Master has introduced the MasterFan M140 ARGB, though noise issues and availability hinder its appeal, while Corsair's TITAN II 360 RX RGB offers impressive cooling with a focus on lowering VRM and M.2 temperatures. The be quiet! Light Mount TKL keyboard is designed for quiet operation with pre-lubricated switches, catering to users who need a low-noise option for shared spaces. Lastly, the Asus ROG Strix B850-F Gaming Wifi Neo motherboard is priced similarly to higher-end models, raising questions about value as AMD continues to push its chipset pricing
Bazzite Linux 44.20260825 Ships With Rapid Kernel Push and Critical Security Patch
Bazzite Linux has released version 44.20260825, featuring a rapid upgrade of the OGC kernel to version 6.1 and addressing a critical security vulnerability in SteamOS-Manager. The update includes various improvements to the Gamescope session wrapper, InputPlumber, and OpenGamepadUI, along with specific fixes for handheld devices like the OneXFly F1. With a focus on maintaining stability, Bazzite allows users to easily roll back updates if regressions occur, and the build pipeline has been optimized for efficiency. Users can update to the latest version using the bazzite-rollback-helper command, with consistent tagging across different setups
Liquorix Linux Kernel 7.1-18 Released: Project-C Scheduler Micro-Optimizations for Linux 7.1.10
Liquorix Linux Kernel 7.1-18 has been released, incorporating micro-optimizations for the Project-C scheduler based on the Linux 7.1.10 base. This update includes two key patches aimed at improving context switch efficiency and branch prediction for non-migratable tasks. Maintainer Steven Barrett continues a rapid release schedule, focusing on low-latency performance, with packages available for Debian, Ubuntu, and Arch Linux. Additionally, the release introduces security enhancements, aligning with the zero-trust kernel philosophy, although it primarily serves as a tuning update rather than a feature expansion
PHP 8.5.10 and 8.4.25 Released: Critical CVE Patches and Stack Overflow Fixes
PHP versions 8.5.10 and 8.4.25 were released on August 27, 2026, providing critical security and stability updates, including stack overflow hardening and JIT compiler adjustments. The updates address serious vulnerabilities, such as out-of-bounds writes and SQL injection flaws, necessitating immediate upgrades for users of the older 8.4 branch, which is now limited to security-only fixes. Key enhancements include protections against crashes caused by deeply nested data structures and improvements to JIT stability and engine functionality in the 8.5 branch. Users are urged to upgrade to the latest versions to benefit from these patches and enhancements
Linux Security Roundup: Python Bypasses, GStreamer RCEs, and Kernel Patches Across the Stack
Major Linux distributions such as AlmaLinux, Debian, Fedora, RHEL, Rocky, SUSE, and Ubuntu have recently released critical security updates addressing a range of vulnerabilities, particularly affecting the Python ecosystem, Node.js, and GStreamer. Key issues include a tarfile extraction filter bypass and multiple heap overflow vulnerabilities in GStreamer plugins, while kernel patches address over 150 CVEs related to privilege escalation and denial-of-service. Users of Ubuntu cloud and Raspberry Pi systems must manage maintenance windows due to kernel ABI bumps that require driver rebuilds, and Red Hat customers face separate image pulls for OpenShift updates. Given the volume of updates, particularly for Python and Node.js, performing routine maintenance before the weekend is advised to ensure system security and stability
TKO File Recovery 2.1 released
TKO File Recovery has launched its latest version, 2.1, offering enhanced capabilities for users seeking to recover deleted files. This versatile tool is compatible with a variety of storage options, including hard drives, folders, disk images, and the Windows Recycle Bin, making it an essential asset for data recovery.
COSMIC Epoch 1.7.0 Released: Accessibility, Stability, and Linux Desktop Polish
COSMIC Epoch 1.7.0 has been released, featuring significant updates that enhance accessibility, usability, and system stability for the open-source Linux desktop environment. Key improvements include shake-to-magnify cursor controls, faster network file browsing, and a searchable Open With dialog, which streamline daily workflows. Additionally, system-level changes such as a migration to POSIX sh for session startup scripts and enhanced PAM authentication resilience have been implemented. Users running Pop!_OS can expect this update to be included in the upcoming 24.04 branch once System76 finalizes the distribution update
Fedora 45 Hits Major Cut-Off Day: Bodhi Enablement, Beta Freeze, and String Freeze Take Effect
Fedora 45 has reached a significant milestone with the implementation of four policy cut-offs, transitioning from nightly builds to a release candidate stage. The new Beta freeze, Software String freeze, and Changes completion deadline mean that only essential packages can enter the stable repository, while translation strings are now locked for finalization. As the QA team has been validating nightly composes since August, the Beta version is expected to be released in early September, leading up to the final release on October 20. This structured approach aims to maintain quality as developers navigate through the freeze conditions, with a focus on ensuring that all planned features are functional and ready for testing
Manjaro Linux 26.1.1 Released: Download ISOs with Linux 7.1 Kernel Default
Manjaro Linux 26.1.1 has been released, featuring ISO images built on August 25, 2026, across GNOME, KDE Plasma, and Xfce editions, with linux71 as the default kernel for all installations. The full images range from 5.2 GB to 5.5 GB and come with preconfigured applications, while minimal images from 4.0 GB to 4.7 GB allow users to customize their setups with options for different kernels. Users can download the new ISOs and their verification files from the Manjaro SourceForge repository, where they can find GnuPG signatures and hash files for security. This release ensures compatibility with the latest drivers and hardware support, while offering stability through a cascading update model that minimizes risks associated with using bleeding-edge kernels
WinBoat v0.9.1 Released: Security Patches and Electron 44 Upgrade for Linux Windows Emulation
WinBoat v0.9.1 has been released as the final update in the 0.9 series, focusing on security enhancements with four critical updates, including a fixed PowerShell injection vulnerability. The release also upgrades the Electron framework to version 44 and incorporates stability improvements while highlighting the risks of running untrusted virtual machines. The developers are already working on version 1.0, which will introduce GPU acceleration and other significant features. Users can download the latest version in various formats, and the project aims to stabilize the GPU integration in the upcoming release
Cyberduck 9.5.4.45528 released
Cyberduck has released version 9.5.4.45528, enhancing its role as a versatile and user-friendly Libre server and cloud storage browser. It supports various protocols including FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV, as well as cloud storage services such as Amazon S3, Google Drive, and Dropbox, making it an all-in-one solution for file transfer needs.
MariaDB Q3 2026 Maintenance Releases and 10.6 End of Life Announcement
MariaDB has released maintenance updates for its four active LTS branches, including the final binary for version 10.6, which has reached its end of life. The latest release, Server 12.3.3, introduces significant changes, such as a new binary logging implementation and default settings that could affect application behavior. Users on version 10.6 are encouraged to upgrade directly to either 11.8 or 12.3 to benefit from enhanced performance and new features, bypassing intermediate versions. The foundation continues to focus on fewer branches for maintenance, ensuring ongoing improvements and support for the remaining versions
OpenSSL 4.0.2 Patches 11 Vulnerabilities, Including Moderate QUIC Flaw
OpenSSL has released version 4.0.2, which addresses eleven vulnerabilities, including a moderate severity QUIC flaw that can lead to denial of service but does not allow for remote code execution. The update includes patches for multiple older versions of OpenSSL, with specific focus on issues such as heap buffer overflows and memory amplification. Notably, five of the vulnerabilities are related to the QUIC protocol, highlighting its ongoing development and the associated memory management challenges. Users are urged to upgrade to the latest version or corresponding point releases to mitigate these vulnerabilities and enhance security
RegRun Security Suite Platinum 18.65.2026.824 released
RegRun Security Suite Platinum version 18.65.2026.824 has been released, offering a comprehensive solution for PC security. This advanced suite is designed to effectively identify and eliminate various types of malware, including Trojans, viruses, worms, spyware, adware, and rootkits. Beyond its malware detection capabilities, RegRun also simplifies computer management by optimizing the Windows startup process, which can lead to reduced boot times.
Tart 2.36.0 released
Tart 2.36.0 is a sophisticated toolset specifically designed for creating, operating, and maintaining virtual machines that run macOS and Linux on Apple Silicon systems. By harnessing Apple's Virtualization.Framework, which was developed in conjunction with the M1 chip, Tart achieves seamless hardware-software integration that ensures high performance without any compromises.
Blender 5.2.1 released
Blender 5.2.1 has been released, continuing its reputation as a free and open-source 3D animation suite that encompasses every aspect of the 3D production pipeline. This includes modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, motion tracking, video editing, and even game creation. The software is particularly advantageous for individuals and small studios, as it provides a unified workflow and benefits from rapid updates driven by user feedback and community contributions.
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