TechCapsules

Security researchers demonstrated that a four‑byte write and timing flaw in Windows’ VBS enclave allowed them to execute code inside the protected memory area used by Microsoft Defender SmartScreen’s Enhanced Phishing Protection. The proof‑of‑concept attack, published by Doyensec on October 13, 2026, exploited a local vulnerability in SFAPE.dll, enabling code execution within the enclave without reading passwords. Microsoft patched the issue in the September 8, 2026 cumulative update (KB5124008) and rated it Critical (CVE‑2026‑83498). The flaw highlighted a weakness in [...]

SEALSQ Corp presented peer‑reviewed research at LightSec 2026, revealing a side‑channel attack that exploits the encoding step of ML‑KEM key generation. The study combines profiling techniques with lattice reduction to recover sensitive data under realistic conditions and proposes practical countermeasures. The work underscores implementation risks in NIST‑standardized post‑quantum cryptography and complements SEALSQ’s QS7001 secure element, which embeds ML‑KEM and ML‑DSA on a RISC‑V architecture and is undergoing Common Criteria EAL5+ certification. [...]

Rockstar’s head of publishing, Jennifer Kolbe, confirmed that the studio has changed its approach to game development after the crunch‑heavy production of Red Dead Redemption 2. Kolbe said Rockstar pledged to avoid “finishing a game by crunching” for GTA 6, introducing policies that grant paid time off and additional pay for overtime. While acknowledging imperfections, she expressed pride in the new framework. The shift follows employee claims that crunch remains “built into” contracts, despite the title’s long delay. [...]

Activision announced that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 will launch globally on October 23, with the full game available at midnight local time on all platforms. Digital preorders unlock Early Access to the campaign on October 16, while DMZ mode begins on October 20. Preload starts October 14 at 9 p.m. PT, with regional times listed. The game requires 115 GB SSD space on PC, and the Digital Vault Edition includes extra content and a season pass.

Xbox announced Xbox Labs, a new initiative aimed at investigating the rapid decompilation, remixing, and repurposing of games across platforms. The program, led by CTO Scott Van Vliet, will bring together game makers, engineers, and scientists to experiment with emerging technologies without explicitly referencing AI. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma highlighted the growing trend of games being recompiled for unsupported hardware and the blending of major titles into each other’s source code. The lab will operate openly, measuring success [...]

Apple released the fourth developer beta of iOS 27.2 for iPhone, following the public launch of iOS 27 on September 14. The update skips the interim iOS 27.1, which was dedicated to the new iPhone Duo foldable device. Developers now have access to the iOS 27.2 SDK, enabling them to optimize apps for the Duo’s dual‑display format. Apple also rolled out Xcode 27.1 beta, adding a Duo simulator and development tools. The public beta is now available

Beats by Dre, an Apple subsidiary, has released a limited‑edition Beats Pill speaker featuring Pikachu and Mimikyu artwork on the grill and custom packaging that displays the Pokémon’s ears. The gray speaker, priced at $149, retains standard Beats Pill specs: 24‑hour battery, IP67 resistance, and lossless USB‑C audio. The launch coincides with a new charms set for the lanyard, including a Pokéball, lightning bolt, and Beats “b” logo. Availability begins October 15 at Apple Stores and Target. [...]

Meta unveiled “Your Algorithm,” an AI‑powered tool that lets Facebook users dictate the content appearing in their Feed and Reels through natural‑language preferences. Launched after a similar feature on Instagram, the tool replaces purely automated recommendations with user‑directed input, allowing real‑time adjustments. Meta added a new three‑dot menu option for easy access, letting users mark posts as “Interested” or “Not interested” and provide detailed feedback. The feature aims to make recommendations more relevant and mirrors streaming‑style personalization. [...]