Microsoft’s Legendary Software Now Available as Open Source for Public Access

Microsoft has made available the earliest-known version of the DOS operating system via an open-source GitHub repository. This follows the open-sourcing of MS-DOS 1.25 and 2.x in 2018, as well as the release of the MS-DOS 4.0 source in 2024. The version being issued in 2026 actually predates the MS-DOS label — it is 86-DOS 1.00, and its release has been coordinated with the software’s 45th anniversary. This difference in naming suggests that Microsoft did not create MS-DOS entirely independently — instead, it acquired the rights to 86-DOS (initially known as “QD-DOS,” which stands for “Quick and Dirty”) and brought on board its developer, Tim Paterson, during this acquisition.

Upon acquiring the rights to 86-DOS, Microsoft rebranded the software, leading to the establishment of MS-DOS in July 1981. This became the foundation for PC DOS 1.0, which Microsoft modified for the IBM Personal Computer 5150 that launched in August 1981. Subsequently, Microsoft began licensing MS-DOS to other manufacturers of IBM-compatible PCs such as Compaq and Zenith. These iterations of DOS (disk operating system) preceded Windows and functioned as the core operating system until Windows XP, effectively running atop MS-DOS or PC DOS and providing a graphical user interface for system functions instead of relying solely on the command line.

As noted by Scott Hanselman, who facilitated the release of these vintage operating systems for public experimentation, the “earliest DOS source code” was discovered in Paterson’s garage. These printouts featured handwritten annotations, offering a glimpse into the development processes of the 1980s, prior to Microsoft features becoming prevalent. In theory, one could rewrite all of this in assembly language and create a personal version of DOS.

Samsung’s Upcoming Galaxy Books Might Incorporate Additional Android Features

It appears that Samsung is keen to dive into upcoming trends. A report suggests that Samsung is planning to launch a new Galaxy Book series, which may include laptops targeting the “low, mid, and flagship” categories. It was mentioned that these laptops will replace ChromeOS with Google’s newly developed AluminumOS, which draws from Android. Early rumored previews of AluminumOS surfaced earlier this year, highlighting its strong connection to Android’s interface and Gemini.

For quite some time, Samsung’s laptops have relied on software directly from Google’s offerings (ChromeOS), but that is expected to change for upcoming models. A report from SamMobile indicates that the outlet has “exclusively discovered” that Samsung is shifting towards an entirely new range of “Android-powered” Galaxy Books. It further states that these laptops might occupy the “low, mid, and flagship” markets upon their release. Given the significant emphasis on Android in this report, SamMobile asserts that Samsung will abandon ChromeOS in favor of Google’s future with AluminumOS.

The team at Android Police has picked up this report, noting speculation that Samsung might opt for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processor or its own brand (Exynos) for the robust performance. Additionally, the report suggests that Samsung will utilize Android 17 as its foundational software under the AluminumOS framework. Furthermore, users could encounter One UI 9 as the overall interface layered on top of Android 17, implying that many of the features and tools familiar to Galaxy phone and tablet users could be included.

There is limited detail available regarding the functionality (or even appearance) of the laptops. The publication speculates that we could witness something during I/O 2026, which seems like a reasonable expectation.

It has been a few weeks since Google released its session list for I/O 2026, but there is a hint regarding its software. The event is scheduled to commence on May 19 at 1 pm ET/10 am PT. This is when the primary keynote address will occur, expected to provide fascinating insights into the company’s future strategies. Later that day, Google will conduct various mini-events (or sessions) focusing on its AI, Android 17, and Chrome.

The following day, May 20, is when the company will discuss Android, ChromeOS, XR, and more. Although these sessions tend to cater to developers or those seeking in-depth analysis, the main keynote on May 19 is likely to showcase significant, consumer-oriented highlights. If Samsung and Google intend to present future Galaxy Books, it might happen then—or afterward.

AluminumOS was first mentioned late last year when a job posting confirmed its existence. While this is probably its codename, it seems Google is incorporating Gemini into this new OS, possibly indicating a more enhanced redesign compared to ChromeOS. An alleged initial preview in January made the transition from ChromeOS to AluminumOS seem likely, suggesting a blend of ChromeOS and Android 16’s desktop mode visuals with split-screen features and other Android-style user interface modifications.

Verizon Presents $100 Bonus to Experience Samsung Galaxy S26: Information Inside

Verizon is presenting an attractive offer for new customers: add a line and receive a complimentary Samsung Galaxy S26 along with a $100 gift card. This promotion is accessible when you buy the Samsung Galaxy S26 and add a line with Verizon’s Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Ultimate plan. The carrier provides $900 in promotional credit, which covers the cost of the flagship device, and includes a $100 gift card for further purchases.

The Samsung Galaxy S26, driven by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite chipset, includes 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and ensures seven years of operating system and security updates. The phone features a larger battery and AMOLED display compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy S25, and incorporates the latest AI-enhanced software capabilities.

Verizon’s plans deliver unlimited talk, text, and data on their extensive 5G/4G LTE network. The Unlimited Plus and Unlimited Ultimate plans offer additional benefits like 5G Ultra Wideband and mobile hotspot data. Customers can also tailor their plans with Verizon’s myPlan system, adding perks such as streaming subscriptions and international advantages for a nominal monthly charge.

This offer represents a budget-friendly chance to experience Samsung’s newest technology without any upfront expenses, alongside a $100 gift card for accessories.

Xbox Owners Can Now Disable Quick Resume for Individual Games

Microsoft has released a new Xbox update that adds a bunch of new features, including the ability to disable Quick Resume for individual games. Quick Resume, which lets you swap between your games with minimal wait time, is one of the best features on the Xbox Series X / S consoles. But it can also […]

Elon Musk confirms xAI used OpenAI’s models to train Grok

In a federal courtroom in California on Thursday, Elon Musk testified that his own AI startup, xAI, has used OpenAI’s models to improve its own. The matter at question is model distillation, a common industry practice by which one larger AI model acts as a “teacher” of sorts to pass on knowledge to a smaller […]

Apple Launches Firmware Upgrade for AirPods Pro 3

Apple has recently introduced completely new firmware for AirPods Pro 3 users. Below are the specifics.

## New AirPods Pro 3 firmware being released now

Apple has today unveiled a new firmware update for AirPods, marking the first significant enhancement since the release of version 8B39 last month.

The most recent firmware for AirPods Pro 3 is build **8B40**. This update arrives ahead of the impending launch of iOS 26.5 in the coming weeks.

Apple maintains a webpage that details release notes for AirPods firmware updates, although the page has not yet been refreshed for 8B40.

At this moment, the firmware is exclusively available for AirPods Pro 3, but it could soon be available for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 as well. For context, all three models received the 8B39 update last month.

Typically, AirPods firmware updates generally state “Bug fixes and other improvements” according to Apple’s release notes, so it is likely this update follows suit.

We will inform you if there are any significant changes in the update once Apple releases the official notes.

Currently, there is no method to manually initiate an AirPods firmware installation. Nevertheless, you can follow Apple’s guidelines regarding the prerequisites needed for the firmware to be downloaded and installed.

Are your AirPods operating with the latest 8B40 firmware update? Have you observed any differences? Share your thoughts in the comments.

### Top AirPods Pro offers and accessories

iOS 26 Improves Apple’s Home Screen Widgets with Two Significant Enhancements

### iOS 26.4: Upgrades to the Photos Widget on iPhone

With the launch of iOS 26.4, Apple has rolled out thrilling new functionalities for the Home Screen of the iPhone, featuring entirely new widgets. Among these, the Photos widget emerges as one of the most cherished selections for users. While numerous widgets offer utility, the Photos widget introduces a distinctive aspect of surprise and joy that elevates the user experience.

#### New Features in the Photos Widget

In iOS 26, Apple has enhanced the Photos widget with two significant options:

1. **Spatial Scenes**
2. **Full Color**

**Spatial Scenes** represents a revolutionary feature that enables users to perceive their photos in an innovative dimension. This functionality generates a parallax effect, allowing users to navigate around their images and observe them react to motion, providing a sensation of depth. This effect is particularly captivating when employed as a Lock Screen wallpaper, but it is also accessible for the Home Screen widget, contributing a dynamic visual aspect.

The second upgrade, the **Always Display in Full Color** toggle, caters to the aesthetic tastes of users who prefer Clear or Tinted appearances for their Home Screen icons. By default, the Photos widget would show images in a Clear or Tinted style to complement the Home Screen’s overarching theme. However, with the introduction of this new toggle, users can opt to exhibit their photos in their authentic, vibrant hues, ensuring the splendor of their images is maintained.

#### Customizing Your Photos Widget

To leverage these new functionalities, users can effortlessly tailor their Photos widgets. By long-pressing the widget and choosing ‘Edit Widget,’ users can gain access to the new settings and customize their widget experience.

#### Conclusion

The enhancements to the Photos widget in iOS 26.4 establish it as a remarkable feature for iPhone users. With the debut of Spatial Scenes and the Full Color toggle, Apple remains committed to enhancing user experience and customization. As the Photos widget continues to be a preferred choice among iPhone users, these updates are guaranteed to please those who value their memories captured in photographs.

What are some of your favorite iPhone Home Screen widgets? Do they feature the Photos widget? Share your opinions in the comments!