Operating Systems
Ongoing coverage on Operating Systems.
Latest coverage
SteamOS 3.7.25 and 3.8.5 Beta released - bug fixes and better dGPU video memory management
Valve has released stable and beta updates for SteamOS, focusing on bug fixes and improved discrete GPU video memory management. SteamOS 3.7.25 includes general security and stability updates, while the 3.8.5 Beta addresses issues on Steam Deck OLED, desktop mode application memory, and control problems on the ASUS ROG Ally. The updates also bring enhancements for various third-party handhelds and prepare the system for upcoming hardware like the Steam Machine.
In the early 1990s, Doom was famously installed on more PCs than Windows itself—but how many was that, actually?
An analysis explores the historical popularity of Doom in the early 1990s, citing figures suggesting it was installed on more PCs than Windows. While shareware downloads reached 20 million, a study referenced by Gabe Newell indicated Windows was on 30 million PCs in the US, with Doom being the number one product. The article questions the exact numbers and the significance of Doom's widespread adoption compared to the dominant operating system of the era.
Microsoft says it's going to 'fundamentally raise the bar' on driver quality, reliability and security…
Microsoft has announced the Driver Quality Initiative (DQI) for Windows 11, a comprehensive effort to improve driver quality, reliability, and security. This initiative includes expanding quality measures, improving lifecycle management, and hardening kernel mode drivers. President of Windows and devices Pavan Davuluri stated that 2026 will focus on addressing customer pain points like system performance and reliability.
Microsoft announces plans to give you more control over the Windows 11 taskbar and Start menu
Microsoft has announced upcoming enhancements to Windows 11, focusing on increased user control over the Taskbar and Start menu. These updates aim to improve personalization and quality of life features, with changes rolling out to Windows Insiders first before a wider public release.
Microsoft lets Insiders choose their Windows 11 Start menu size
Microsoft is testing new customization options for Windows 11 Insiders, allowing users to choose the size of their Start menu. The company is also exploring the ability to reposition the Windows 11 taskbar.
Hot on the heels of Apple's iPhone-in-a-laptop, Google and Intel have teamed up to give us the Googlebook
Google and Intel have partnered to announce the Googlebook, a new laptop designed to integrate Android and ChromeOS with a focus on AI capabilities powered by Gemini. The device will allow seamless casting of Android apps and file access, aiming to offer a work-on-the-go solution. The Googlebook is expected to launch later this autumn, potentially utilizing Intel's Panther Lake or Wildcat Lake chips.
Engadget Podcast: Who needs Googlebooks?
This article discusses new features coming in Android 17. It also touches on the concept of Google Books and its relevance in the current digital landscape.
We're inching closer to the Steam Frame release with a SteamOS Manager update
Valve is continuing development for the Steam Frame, with recent updates to SteamOS Manager indicating progress towards its release. Code commits suggest initial support for the device, including GPU clock management, and a recent Proton Beta update also appears to be for the Steam Frame.
Windows Update will soon revert problematic drivers automatically
Microsoft is implementing a new initiative for Windows updates to automatically revert problematic drivers. This aims to prevent driver-related issues before they occur for users.
Google reveals Googlebook, an AI-powered laptop with an Android-based OS
Google has unveiled Googlebook, a new AI-powered laptop designed to integrate Gemini Intelligence. The device features an Android-based operating system, positioning it as a competitor in the evolving laptop market.
I've spent 30 years with Microsoft but Linux and Pop! OS might have converted me
After 30 years of using Microsoft Windows, the author details their experience switching to Pop! OS, a Linux distribution. While praising Pop! OS for its responsiveness and customization, the author notes challenges with app availability and performance in certain games compared to Windows. Despite these drawbacks, the author expresses a continued interest in exploring Linux further.
Morning Tech Bits
The Windows Insider Program has released an experimental preview build, version 26300.8376. This update is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to test new features and improvements for the Windows operating system.
SteamOS 3.7.24 released along with a stable Steam Client update with more Steam Controller fixes
Valve has released SteamOS 3.7.24 and a stable Steam Client update, focusing on fixes for the Steam Controller. The updates include improvements for audio stability, security, and controller functionality, such as grip sensor settings and touch registration for left trackpads.
Microsoft exec. confirms Windows 11 is just as full of old code as you suspected: 'We were thinking flying cars and moon stations by the year 2026, not Win32'
Microsoft executive Mark Russinovich confirmed that Windows 11 heavily relies on the Win32 API, which dates back to Windows 95. Despite attempts to introduce newer APIs like WinRT, the legacy Win32 framework remains essential due to the vast ecosystem built upon it. Russinovich noted that the original vision for 2026 was far more futuristic than the continued reliance on 1990s code.
All Access
This article discusses the challenges of making modern Text User Interfaces (TUIs) accessible. It argues that while TUIs can be powerful, their current implementations often create significant barriers for users with disabilities, making them a 'nightmare' for accessibility.
MMO Business Roundup: PlayStation class action, Steam Controller sellout, and GTA6’s ‘core’ audience
This MMO business roundup covers several industry developments, including a preliminary approval for a $7.85 million settlement in an antitrust class action lawsuit against Sony over PlayStation Store practices. Valve's Steam Controller sold out rapidly, leading to a reseller market. Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick stated Grand Theft Auto VI is primarily aimed at console players, despite PC's significant sales share. Finally, Steam's April hardware survey shows over 25% of users are still on Windows 10.
Google will livestream The Android Show: I/O Edition on May 12
Google will livestream The Android Show: I/O Edition on May 12 to highlight significant upcoming changes to the Android operating system. The virtual event is expected to reveal major updates to the OS.
Linux century marches on as Discord brings updater parity with Windows and easy installs for more distros
Discord has updated its application for Linux, bringing its updater functionality in parity with Windows and simplifying installation for more distributions. This change addresses a long-standing inconvenience for Linux users who previously had to manually install updates. The move is seen as a positive sign for Linux's growing presence on the desktop.
6 months after Windows 10 was put to pasture, over a quarter of Steam users are still on the dying OS
Despite Windows 10 reaching its end of life six months ago, over a quarter of Steam users are still running the older operating system. Windows 11 adoption on Steam is also lagging, with only 67.74% of users on the newer OS. Linux usage saw a slight dip in the latest Steam Hardware Survey.
Saturday Tech Bits
A retailer is selling broken RTX 5090 GPUs for prices starting at $1,760, according to Tom's Hardware. Additionally, the Windows 11 Beta Preview Build 26220.8340 has been released for the Windows Insider Program.