All articles tagged with #hardware compatibility
Apple released iOS 26.3.1 (and related iPadOS/macOS/Studio Display firmware) to improve hardware compatibility and stability, adding support for new devices and boosting performance while fixing minor bugs; some issues (like wallpaper desaturation) remain, and no CVE details were disclosed. Battery impact is mixed, older devices can receive iOS 18.7.6, and Apple is lining up iOS 26.4 and iOS 27 for future releases.
A seasoned tech writer tests migrating two Intel-based Surfaces (Go 2 and Pro 8) from Windows to Linux, attempting Ubuntu 22.04, Zorin OS 18, and Fedora 43. He finds Linux installation has matured but still demands heavy terminal work, and ARM devices remain problematic. Fedora 43 works on the Surface Go 2 but lacks sleep support; Zorin runs but webcam issues persist; Ubuntu was abandoned after problems. Overall, Linux is workable for knowledgeable hobbyists and dual-boot is a sane path, but it's not beginner-friendly, and the author misses Windows Hello biometric login most of all.
The author switched from Windows to Linux using CachyOS, an Arch-based distro, and reports a mostly smooth transition with hardware working well, some minor issues like mouse compatibility, and successful use for work and gaming, though some challenges remain, especially with certain apps and hardware.
Microsoft is releasing an emergency update for Windows 11 after a recent update caused widespread issues, including network connection problems and hardware malfunctions, with a fix expected to roll out within 48 hours.
Grounded 2, the sequel to Obsidian's survival game, will be released in early access on July 29 and features system requirements that support older hardware, including nearly 10-year-old graphics cards and CPUs. The game size is 40 GB, five times larger than the original, but should be accessible for most gamers with modern PCs. It will be available on Xbox and PC via Xbox Game Pass and for purchase, promising a larger map, new gameplay features, and expanded content.
The Nintendo Switch 2's TV dock supports variable refresh rate (VRR), but Nintendo only officially supports VRR in handheld mode, leading to confusion. Tests with various devices show VRR works through the dock, but Nintendo has not enabled or explained its use with the TV output, possibly due to concerns about game performance or readiness. The company remains silent on the issue.
Microsoft's upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update may require a CPU instruction called POPCNT, potentially rendering very old PCs unable to boot. This move aligns with the existing hardware compatibility list, which excludes anything earlier than eighth-generation Intel chips. While this discovery may not have a significant impact on mainstream users, enthusiasts using workarounds to install Windows 11 should ensure their hardware meets the requirements. The change reflects Microsoft's increasing focus on hardware requirements, signaling a shift away from its traditional emphasis on backward compatibility.
Microsoft is investigating reports of Windows activation issues following the company's decision to block Windows 7 and Windows 8 keys from activating copies of Windows 10 and Windows 11. Users who upgraded to Windows 10 or 11 from Windows 7 or 8 may face deactivation if they swap hardware components or upgrade their BIOS. Several users have experienced this problem and have filed complaints with the FTC. Microsoft acknowledges the issue and advises affected customers to contact customer support for assistance.
ProtonDB, a crowdsourced repository of gamer reviews for Steam Deck and Linux games, now has dedicated tabs to sort user reports based on PC or Steam Deck, making it easier to check how specific games run on the handheld device. This is particularly useful as the "Verified" status on a game's store page may not always guarantee optimal performance. ProtonDB allows users to filter reviews by platform and provides anecdotal experiences, recommended settings, and playtime indications. It's a valuable resource for gauging game performance on the Steam Deck.