Category: Software

  • Privacy-focused Gnoppix Linux 26.6 with AI now available

    Privacy-focused Gnoppix Linux 26.6 with AI now available

    Key Takeaway

    – Gnoppix 26.6 release focuses on build system stability, repository security, desktop UX cleanup, and live boot capabilities.
    – The OS remains Debian-based, AI-infused, lightweight, with a free Core edition and a $2.50/month Pro edition.
    – Currently only the Xfce ISO is available; the Core KDE version is expected soon.

    Back from the shadows in 2021, Gnoppix remains around as it was: Debian-based, AI-infused, lightweight, and available in a free Core edition alongside a Pro flavor (members that get access to all the exclusive goodies have to pay $2.5 per month).

    Details of the latest version

    This week’s release takes the current version number up to 26.6 and, according to the official release notes, “focuses heavily on stabilizing our underlying build system, securing repository pipelines, cleaning up the desktop user experience, and introducing highly requested live boot capabilities.”

    What’s new inside

    The list of changes includes the following:

    • Integrated AI assistant now works offline, reducing cloud dependancy
    • Live boot capability added to both Core and Pro editions
    • Repository pipelines are now fully encrypted and signed
    • Xfce desktop recieved many visual refinements and bug fixes
    • Base system upgraded to Debian 12 (Bookworm) for better compatability
    • Pro edition includes pre-installed machine learning frameworks and additional tools
    • Power management improved for extended battery life on laptops
    • Updated kernel to version 6.1 LTS for better hardware support

    The ISO images are available on SourceForge. For now, only the Xfce ISO is listed. The Core KDE version should follow in the coming days.


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  • Why Unreal Engine 6 vs 5: Is 5 Finished?

    Why Unreal Engine 6 vs 5: Is 5 Finished?

    Key Takeaway

    – UE6 is viewed as risky: concerns about restarting with a new engine while UE5 still has unfinished aspects, plus potential workflow disruptions for developers.
    – Skepticism centers on performance and stability: ongoing stuttering, high hardware requirements, and “experimental”-feeling features in current tech like Lumen and Nanite.
    – Potential upside if improvements materialize: better multithreading, lower CPU bottlenecks, stable frame rates, and a smoother transition could make UE6 appealing despite early doubts.

    Unreal Engine 6 announcement sparks mixed reactions

    Unreal Engine 6 was officially announced alongside a graphics update for Rocket League, but early reactions have been more skeptical than enthusiastic. On Reddit, many users are essentially asking: “Why is Unreal Engine 6 already coming when Unreal Engine 5 still doesn’t feel finished?” Developers still report persistent issues with performance, stuttering and features that continue to feel experimental. Technologies such as Lumen and Nanite may be technically impressive, but they still come with high hardware requirements and ongoing optimization problems.

    Why skip to a new version before polishing the old one?

    Many observers are now wondering why Epic Games is not making Unreal Engine 5 run smoothly before moving on to Unreal Engine 6. One obvious theory is that UE6 could also serve as a fresh start for Epic, helping the company distance itself from UE5’s somewhat tarnished reputation. At the same time, major additions such as improved multithreading, Verse and deeper integration with Fortnite and UEFN may affect the engine so profoundly that Epic prefers to present them as a new major version rather than another UE5 update.

    Developers voice concerns about moving to UE6

    Besides gamers, game developers are watching the situation especially closely. Switching to a new engine can create opportunities, but in practice it can also mean plenty of trouble: broken plugins, changed workflows and new bugs. Many developers therefore want to watch UE6 from a safe distance for now instead of moving active productions straight to the new version. One of the top comments in the Reddit discussion appears to come from a developer:

    It’s hard to get excited for UE6 when I spent a lot of UE5’s lifecycle waiting for things to not feel experimental. This doesn’t bode well for that reason. That said, it’s a free engine that I benefit from, so unless they completely break the things I need, I don’t care.

    Would UE6 be worth it if improvements land as promised?

    Still, people are not entirely opposed to Unreal Engine 6. If Epic manages to deliver the promised improvements to multithreading support, UE6 could address exactly the areas where UE5 is criticized most: CPU utilization and stuttering. Ideally, the new engine would deliver graphics quality comparable to UE5 while running much more efficiently, with lower system requirements, more stable frame rates and fewer technical compromises. If Epic succeeds, the current skepticism toward UE6 could fade rather quickly.

    Reddit

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  • Rocky Linux 9.8 Released: Improved Security and Updates

    Rocky Linux 9.8 Released: Improved Security and Updates

    Key Takeaway

    – Expanded image support across platforms and formats: ISO for x86_64, aarch64, ppc64le, s390x, riscv64; cloud AMI/Google/Azure; full/minimal Docker; desktop spins; and a WSL image.
    – Updated toolchains: GCC Toolset, LLVM 21.1.8, Rust 1.92.0, and Go 1.26.2.
    – New image/BUILD enhancements: advanced disk partitioning for custom images, Kickstart file injection for ISO builds, and WSL2 image creation; /boot partition removed from AWS and KVM formats.

    Rocky Linux 9.8 announced with broad platform support

    Rocky Linux 9.8 is now available for a wide range of platforms, as usual. The list of images available for it covers the following: AMD/Intel (x86_64), ARM (aarch64), PowerPC (ppc64le), IBM Z (s390x), and RISC-V (riscv64) – via regular ISO files; a generic cloud image for AWS AMI, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure; full and minimal Docker (OCI) images; desktop/workstation live images with GNOME, KDE, MATE, GNOMELITE, XFCE, and CINNAMON; and a WSL image.

    Official release highlights and toolsets

    According to the official release news (see the source link for the whole post), there are plenty of highlights worth being mentioned: In addition to the updated GCC Toolset, Rocky Linux 9.8 also comes with LLVM Toolset 21.1.8, Rust Toolset 1.92.0, and Go Toolset 1.26.2. The image building tool now handles advanced disk partitioning for custom images, Kickstart file injection when building ISO images, and WSL2 image creation. The separate /boot partition is no longer included in system images using the AWS or KVM formats.

    Where to download and general notes

    The downloads can be found on this page. Rocky Linux

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  • Tim Sweeney Grills Steam Deck Price Rise; Calls Gabe Newell Greedy

    Tim Sweeney Grills Steam Deck Price Rise; Calls Gabe Newell Greedy

    Key Takeaway

    – Tim Sweeney criticized the Steam Deck price hikes, arguing that Valve should absorb rising component costs while noting that Steam customer spending funds parts.
    – The backlash to Valve’s price increases was predominantly negative, with comparisons to other handhelds positioning the Asus ROG Xbox The Ally as a potential bargain.
    – Critics pointed to Sweeney’s own business criticisms of Valve’s monopoly on digital game marketplaces, suggesting the dispute is as much about market power as about prices.

    Tim Sweeney weighs in on Steam Deck price rise

    Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has a contentious history with Valve. It’s not surprising then that he would chime in on the recent Steam Deck price increase. On social media, he sarcastically criticized the move, arguing that Gabe Newell should absorb the rising component costs.

    Context and contents of the post

    Sweeney shared a Pirat_Nation post that speculated about a $1500 Steam Machine price. The mini PC may also ship for a higher-than-expected MSRP on its unannounced release date. For now, buyers only know that the Steam Deck OLED 1TB is $949, while the LCD 512GB version is $789. Those are significant hikes of $300 and $240 on the gaming handhelds.

    Response to shortages and market claims

    The Epic Games chief acknowledges the component shortage that Valve used to justify the changes. However, he counters that “Steam customer spending ultimately funds” the parts. With its popular marketplace, some analysts believe that the company earns at least $10 billion in revenue each year.

    Public jab and perceived wealth

    Taking a jab at majority owner Gabe Newell, the post snarkily says the “supply chain for megayachts” has also been disrupted. Newell enjoys lounging on the enormous boats, viewed as symbols of his immense wealth. While cruising, he rarely makes controversial public statements.

    Public reception and parallels

    The reaction to the Steam Deck price increase has been overwhelmingly negative. Although gaming handhelds from Lenovo and MSI are now more expensive, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally looks like a bargain. It’s also raised concerns about the Steam Machine, which many insiders expect to sell for well over $1000.

    Community sentiment and criticisms

    Despite the outcry, Sweeney didn’t find much support on social media. Gamers accuse him of his own bad business practices, including several rounds of layoffs at Epic Games. Other fans think the CEO is jealous of the superior Steam launcher and its connected thriving communities.

    Underlying discourse

    In reality, the criticism may have little to do with the cost of the Steam Deck and Steam Machine. Sweeney has attacked Newell’s company for having a monopoly on digital gaming marketplaces.

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  • Take-Two shuts down GTA V RP platform RAGE:MP after cease-and-desist

    Take-Two shuts down GTA V RP platform RAGE:MP after cease-and-desist

    Key Takeaway

    – Take-Two mandated a shutdown of RAGE:MP to promote FiveM as the sole authorized GTA V multiplayer platform, accelerating migration to FiveM.
    – RAGE:MP will fully shut down: new servers blocked, server toolkit inaccessible, public server list wiped June 1, 2026, and complete offline support by August 31, 2026.
    – Community and developer impact: hundreds of RP servers are transitioning to FiveM with assistance from the Cfx.re group, signaling a shift toward Rockstar’s official/mod-supported ecosystem for GTA V (and potentially GTA VI).

    Take-Two recently ordered the takedown of a rival, long-running GTA V modding and role-playing platform known as RAGE:MP. It served as an alternative and a direct rival to the popular role-playing platform FiveM. After Rockstar acquired FiveM through its parent company, Take-Two, in 2023, the publisher issued a cease-and-desist to RAGE:MP (RAGE: Multiplayer) to eliminate any competing third-party options.

    RAGE:MP announcement

    In a forum post, the RAGE:MP team issued the following announcement: “Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive have made it clear that FiveM is the only authorized platform for GTA V multiplayer modding, as defined in their Platform Licensing Agreement (PLA). In accordance with that policy, and at Take-Two’s request, RAGE:MP will begin a structured shutdown process. We are asking all server owners to wind down their operations and migrate to FiveM. We know this is tough news for everyone — both developers and players. All of us have put a huge amount of time and energy into building RAGE:MP.”

    The team ended the post with a final send-off, stating, “Thank you for being part of this journey and for everything you’ve done to help multiplayer grow. RAGE:MP was always defined more by the community than by the codebase.”

    Shutdown timeline

    Currently, all new servers for RAGE:MP have been blocked, and developers can no longer access the RAGE:MP server toolkit. On June 1, 2026, the public server list will be wiped clean. Full support, including the client, backend infrastructure, and everything else, will go offline as early as August 31, 2026.

    • There is a hastened wind-down likely at Take-Two’s behest.
    • RAGE:MP’s team is asking server owners to migrate their communities to FiveM right away.
    • The Cfx.re group will assist server owners with the transition to Rockstar’s official modding platform.

    Historical context

    RAGE:MP has been around for nearly a decade and was one of the go-to alternatives for a freer, more open experience than what GTA Online offered, with hundreds of custom RP servers and game modes. At the time of the cease-and-desist announcement, nearly 288 servers were still active.

    Speculation and future

    It’s speculated that Rockstar and Take-Two are preparing for the next iteration of GTA Online by bringing mod support in-house, courtesy of FiveM. This indicates that mod support will be available on day one or is at least planned for a later date in Grand Theft Auto VI.

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  • OmniDrive Turns Blu-ray Drives into Retro-Game Dumpers

    OmniDrive Turns Blu-ray Drives into Retro-Game Dumpers

    Key Takeaway

    – OmniDrive enables legally ripping and dumping proprietary disc games from multiple consoles (e.g., GameCube, Wii, Xbox families, PS3/PS5, Dreamcast) using compatible MT1959 chipset drives.
    – It’s open-source and widely endorsed by preservation communities (Redump) as a replacement for older firmware.
    – Setup requires verifying drive compatibility with MakeMKV’s diagnostic tool, flashing the drive with OmniDrive, and using free tools (Media Preservation Frontend or redumper) to create ISO or raw dumps.
    – There is a non-trivial risk: flashing the wrong firmware can brick the drive; thorough checks and exact model confirmation are essential.

    Game collectors and preservationists can now legally rip their retro GameCube, Wii, and Xbox games using a compatible Blu-ray disc drive.

    In this article, we will keep the tone varied and the lines a touch informal, while sticking to the facts about OmniDrive and its use for legally backing up disc-based games. The core message is that a legally compliant path exists for converting physical media into digital libraries using a compatible optical drive and open source firmware.

    What OmniDrive does and why it matters

    OmniDrive is custom firmware that converts certain optical drives into rippers for various consoles’ proprietary disc formats. This enables game preservation enthusiasts to back up their own discs and dump content without stepping into shady territory or piracy, providing a clear route for legit archival work.

    Community reception and platform reach

    Retro video game preservation communities have welcomed OmniDrive as a practical tool. Redump.org and related wikis note that OmniDrive is highly recommended and has replaced older firmware recommendations once used in 2022, signaling a shift toward newer open-source solutions.

    Supported platforms and disc types

    OmniDrive can read and dump a wide array of discs across 12 major platforms, including Nintendo GameCube, Wii, and Wii U; Microsoft’s Xbox family; Sony’s PlayStation 3 and 5; Sega’s Dreamcast; plus standard lead-out CDs and DVDs, among others. This broad compatibility helps many collectors build complete digital libraries from physical copies.

    Version, authorship, and hardware requirements

    Released in February of the current year, OmniDrive is at version 1.0.2. It is fully open source, authored by RibShark, and designed for drives using the MT1959 chipset from Hitachi-LG Data Storage. Compatibility extends to certain desktop writers and slim drives like ASUS BW-16D1HT, LG BU40N, and BP50NB40, expanding the hardware options for users.

    Pre-rip checks and flashing steps

    Before ripping, users should verify they have a compatible drive by running the MakeMKV diagnostic app to confirm the MT1959HWDN chipset. After that, they can flash the drive with MakeMKV’s sdftool and the OmniDrive firmware. The process is described as straightforward, with free tools such as Media Preservation Frontend or redumper used to create ISO files or raw dumps for Xbox, PS2, Xbox 360, Wii, and GameCube titles.

    Safety and cautions

    A reminder is warranted: flashing drives carries the risk of bricking the device if the wrong firmware is applied. It is crucial to double-check every detail and ensure the exact disc drive model is correct before proceeding, to avoid potential hardware failures.

    • OmniDrive – Redump Wiki
    • RibShark GitHub
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  • Mid-Range Phones Offer More Security Than High-End Models

    Mid-Range Phones Offer More Security Than High-End Models

    Key Takeaway

    – Four Android versions and six years of security updates (until 2032) provide long-term security and feature access.
    – Pre-installed Android 16 and ongoing updates mean active maintenance with patches roughly every three months.
    – The extended support makes the Nord 6 attractive for both individual users and businesses seeking lower replacement costs over several years.

    Overview

    The OnePlus Nord 6 sets standards in the mid-range with its long software update guarantee. Four Android versions and six years of security updates until 2032 ensure long-term security, which is unfortunately not always a given in this price range. With Android 16 pre-installed and the promise of four new Android versions and six years of security updates until 2032, the Nord 6 offers an update policy that is otherwise often only found on premium devices.

    Long-Term Support

    This long-term support means that users can keep their device secure and up-to-date for at least six years without having to do without new functions. The security patches date from March 2026, which shows that the device is being actively maintained. You will probably receive updates at least every three months. For the average user, this guarantee means that the smartphone will still be safe and functional in five years’ time.

    Impact for Users and Businesses

    If you use the device for several years, you benefit from continuous security updates that close known vulnerabilities. This long-term support is also an important factor for companies that use smartphones for their employees, as it reduces the cost of replacing devices. The promise of four Android versions also ensures that new functions and improvements remain available over a long period of time. We often criticize the update period for other mid-range smartphones: models such as the Nothing Phone (4a) or the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion offer shorter update periods, which limits long-term usability.

    Market Comparison

    Overall, however, the situation has improved significantly in recent years, which is likely to be helped by the new EU directives. The long-term software update guarantee of the OnePlus Nord 6 is a clear plus. With four Android versions and six years of security updates until 2032, it offers good future security. This is a strong argument for users who want to use their smartphone for several years.

     

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  • Apple iPhone 18 Pro Camera and AI Siri Apps in iOS 27 Leak (Early)

    Apple iPhone 18 Pro Camera and AI Siri Apps in iOS 27 Leak (Early)

    Key Takeaway

    – Siri overhaul to become an always-on AI agent capable of analyzing on-screen content, personal data, and web information.
    – Major enhancements to the iPhone camera experience driven by generative AI.
    – Potential feature exclusivity to newer devices (iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max and foldable iPhone Ultra with the A20 Pro chip), with some features possibly rolling out to older iPhones later.

    Ahead of the June 8 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), a very unusual leak (coming from a very reputable source) seems to have revealed Apple’s plans for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iOS 27, suggesting a notable reshaping of Siri and the iPhone camera with a stronger push into generative AI. The piece hints at a total revamp of the voice assistant and major enhancements to native imaging workflows, signaling a broader shift in how users will interact with devices.

    Leaked details and cautions

    According to Bloomberg, the leaked info and iOS 27 renders are based on detailed description by people who’ve seen the software in action, so they are likely to be close to what Apple actually ships with the iPhone 18 Pro when the final version iOS 27 is out. The notes also warn that some features might not appear exactly as shown, since Apple could adjust elements between the beta shown at WWDC and the September final release, a familiar pattern for Apple’s software cycles.

    Potential exclusivity and hardware ties

    It’s worth noting that it’s not 100% clear which new features will make it to all iPhones supporting iOS 27 and which ones will remain exclusive to the new iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the foldable iPhone Ultra, thanks to the new A20 Pro chip. Apple is known for making certain new software features exclusive to the newest iPhones, so we’ll have to wait and see what lands for older models and what stays behind in the launch lineup.

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  • OviOS Linux 6 Switches from SysV to Systemd

    OviOS Linux 6 Switches from SysV to Systemd

    Key Takeaway

    – Transition from SysV to systemd, with newer Samba, NFS, iSCSI, and security daemons using systemd units while preserving legacy commands (pool, lun, target, service) for compatibility.
    – Major generational upgrade: modernized internals, expanded protocol support, and guided simplicity for administrators.
    – OviOS 6 ships with Linux kernel 7.0 (stable) and ZFS 2.4.2, targeting x86_64 hardware and maintaining LSB compliance.

    OviOS Linux 6 is presented as a major upgrade with modernised internals and expanded protocol support, while keeping the familiar guided simplicity that admins rely on. This release notes describe a significant generational shift in the storage platform, emphasizing enhanced capabilities without sacrificing ease of use.

    System and kernel changes

    The distribution moves from SysV to systemd, reflecting a modernized init and service management approach. New versions of Samba, NFS utilities, iSCSI tools, and security daemons are provided with systemd unit files, making the transition smoother for administrators who rely on contemporary tooling. The kernel remains aligned with the latest stable release at the time of the update, and the platform targets x86_64 hardware to maintain broad compatibility.

    New features and compatibility

    OviOS 6 ships with Linux kernel 7.0 stable and ZFS 2.4.2, providing enhanced performance and storage capabilities. The system maintains LSB compliance, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of software expectations and standards. The release highlights several new features while stating that existing commands from the previous version—such as pool, lun, target, or service—continue to operate as before. The additional capabilities are designed to layer on top of the established workflow rather than replace it.

    Usage and deployment notes

    Old users can rely on the continuity of essential commands, with the new features available when needed. The Polaris codename identifies this release, and the distribution is distributed as a 1.4 GB ISO file that can be downloaded from the official page. This packaging choice mirrors the intent to deliver a complete, ready-to-deploy system while preserving familiar management paradigms.

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  • Instagram Plus and WhatsApp Plus arrive: the beginning

    Instagram Plus and WhatsApp Plus arrive: the beginning

    Key Takeaway

    – Meta is rolling out new subscribed tiers across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, starting with Plus options at $2.99–$3.99/month.
    – Instagram, Facebook Plus offer features like extended story sharing, broader follower lists, viewership insights, and customization (icons/fonts); WhatsApp Plus adds themes, ringtones, and premium stickers.
    – Meta is planning AI-centric subscriptions (Meta One Plus $7.99, Meta One Premium $19.99, Meta One Advanced $49.99) focused on image/video generation and reach enhancement.

    Meta launches new subscriptions across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp

    Meta has announced that a range of new subscriptions are now available and will be made available to all Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp users over the coming weeks. The scope of these “Plus” subscriptions varies depending on the app. The article maintains pricing and specification details as provided, including monthly costs and feature sets for each platform.

    Instagram Plus features and price

    Instagram Plus costs $3.99 per month, and allows you to see how many people have viewed a Story multiple times, while unlimited follower lists can be created, rather than just a “Close Friends” list as with a free account. Subscribers can share stories for longer than the usual 24 hours and highlight them once a week to generate additional reach. With the subscription, it is also possible to see stories from other users without appearing on the list of people who have seen the story. Small cosmetic features, such as a selection of different app icons or a font selection in your own profile, complete the subscription. In this section the price and feature details are repeated as described.

    Facebook Plus and WhatsApp Plus

    Facebook Plus also costs $3.99 per month and offers a similar range of functions. WhatsApp Plus is slightly cheaper at $2.99 per month and includes the option to personalize the entire app with themes, use exclusive ringtones and send premium stickers. The article preserves the exact pricing and feature notes for these two platforms, including the monthly costs and customization options.

    Subscription ecosystem and future plans

    These “Plus” subscriptions are offered in addition to the Meta Verified subscription. But Meta’s flood of subscriptions doesn’t end there, as the company also plans to offer AI subscriptions in the future with Meta One Plus for $7.99 per month and Meta One Premium for $19.99 per month, which will allow users to generate images and videos using AI. Meta One Advanced for $49.99 per month is primarily intended to increase reach on Facebook and Instagram. The text keeps the pricing structure as stated, noting upcoming AI services and their aims.

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