> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://gamelauncher.cloud/help/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://gamelauncher.cloud/help/changelog/2026/january-05-2026.md).

# January 5, 2026

Major Avalonia upgrade for cross-platform support, enhanced downloads management, error tracking with Glitchtip, and improved build handling

***

{% hint style="info" %}
**Want to see ALL the differences?** Check out our comprehensive comparison between **Game Launcher Cloud** and **Game Launcher Asset (legacy)**: 👉 [Full Features Comparison List](https://help.gamelauncher.cloud/features/full-features-list)
{% endhint %}

***

## 🖥️ Desktop

### 🚀 Cross-Platform Support with AvaloniaUI

{% hint style="success" %}
**MAJOR UPDATE:** The Game Launcher has been completely upgraded to **AvaloniaUI** with **.NET 10** and **C# 14** for native cross-platform support!
{% endhint %}

* **Full multi-platform compatibility** - Windows, macOS, and Linux support
* **Built on .NET 10** - latest framework with best performance
* **C# 14 language features** - modern syntax and capabilities
* **Native performance** across all platforms
* **Modern UI framework** with better maintainability
* **Smooth animations and transitions** throughout the app
* **Improved rendering** with platform-specific optimizations

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FKUkBzKii5j5g4PRykfFd%2Fimage%2040.png?alt=media&amp;token=adc3e0fe-5022-418e-814b-d2e9d46725fe" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Game Launcher Cloud with AvaloniaUI</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🐛 Error Tracking with GlitchTip

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Automated crash reporting and error tracking with GlitchTip (Sentry-compatible)!
{% endhint %}

* **Automatic crash reports** sent when errors occur
* **Detailed error context** including launcher configuration and user data
* **Real-time error monitoring** for faster issue resolution
* **Privacy-focused** - only essential diagnostic data is sent
* **Helps improve stability** by identifying and fixing bugs quickly

**Impact:** We can now proactively identify and fix issues before they affect most users, leading to a more stable launcher experience.

***

### 📥 Downloads Page - Enhanced Download Management

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Dedicated Downloads Page for complete download management!
{% endhint %}

* **Detailed download information** - progress, speed, ETA, and status
* **Navigate between games** without interrupting current downloads
* **Pause and resume downloads** with full state preservation
* **Download statistics** - current speed, average speed, total downloaded
* **Environment badges** showing which environment is downloading
* **Status indicators** for install/update/verify states
* **Visual progress tracking** with multi-process progress bars
* **Background blurred image** with glassmorphism effects

**Key Features:**

* **Game description display** in download cards
* **Play completed downloads** directly from the downloads page
* **Remove completed downloads** from the list
* **Real-time status updates** with dynamic icons and messages
* **Beautiful glassmorphism UI** with acrylic blur effects

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FbcRvhC5ey99zPwybKJxU%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=bc9b2480-4af9-401a-9d80-51f534bf4f6f" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Downloads Page</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🎨 Visual & UI Improvements

#### Acrylic Blur Windows

* **System-native acrylic blur** on all windows for modern glass effect
* **Dynamic transparency** based on developer configuration (set in Dashboard)
* **Configurable launcher base opacity** (0-100%) set by developers
* **Improved visual consistency** across the entire launcher
* **Respects developer's visual design** choices

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FfSJKUmkwSHEFrKJA0qDC%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=f028446f-b356-41d4-b127-a499d38634b0" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Acrylic Blur Background</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### New "Black" Theme

* **New professional Black theme** preset
* **Enhanced Gray theme** option
* **Better contrast** for improved readability
* **Modern dark mode** aesthetics

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FXu4HHyv7G70EkahdHe80%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=dd3a4ff3-1afb-4d6c-9e23-5b01bd036af6" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Black Theme with black accent color and blur</p></figcaption></figure></div>

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FqfQvs2oK3NcEFvSN92uS%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=be1c5f67-51f2-426e-98d0-e05e14fcb53c" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Black theme with purple accent color and blur</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Customizable Progress Bars Colors

* **Custom Overall Progress color:** customizable via Dashboard
* **Custom Single Process Progress color:** customizable via Dashboard

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2Fla8ZKXh1J5gJADIt646b%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=3c499543-9a7b-459c-811c-0eb402632923" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Custom colors for the progress bars</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Draggable and new Delete dropdown for Favorites Apps

* Favorites apps are now draggable to reorganize them
* Right click to the app to open the dropdown and remove it from favorites

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FwybgQY7QxAWyiWcL3BHO%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=c9825931-2cd9-401b-9486-e5f6a515ff5a" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Right click to the app to open the dropdown</p></figcaption></figure>

#### Enhanced Animations

* **Smoother transitions** between views
* **Improved fade effects** for panels and windows
* **Better splash screen animation** with optimized timing
* **Animated navigation** for news and content views

#### UI Polish

* **Revamped ComboBox styles** with better visual feedback
* **Professional gradient backgrounds** on windows and dialogs
* **Improved button hover effects** with better visual feedback
* **Refined progress bar styles** with theme-aware colors
* **Enhanced news slideshow** with better navigation indicators

***

### 🎮 Installation & Environment Management

#### Installation Window UI Improvements

* Refined App Cover
* Redesigned Storage Requirements section

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FqUelYtLQmDJcfy30InLu%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=0dc260c1-50b2-40a4-9f8a-508368020489" alt=""><figcaption><p>App Installation Window UI Improvements</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Move Installation per Environment Feature

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Move installed environments to different folders without re-downloading!
{% endhint %}

* **Relocate game installations** to any folder
* **Preserves all game data** and settings
* **Progress tracking** during move operation
* **Validation checks** to ensure move completed successfully

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FOOfOTBan6iO6oqpxRvqN%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=23e76b3f-6062-4185-b279-787a577e91df" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Move Installation Files</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Improved Uninstall System

* **Environment-specific uninstall** - remove individual environments
* **Single unified window** for uninstall operations
* **Progress feedback** during uninstallation
* **Success and error state handling**
* **Clear confirmation dialogs** with async operations

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F8GB0YlK23Zh5xHlWEncJ%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=fc7924c2-e9f9-4e23-b264-0ed1018726e9" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Uninstall System with progress</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Enhanced Environment Handling

{% hint style="success" %}
**MAJOR FIX:** Resolved critical installation path and environment handling issues!
{% endhint %}

* **Fixed installation path detection** - launcher now correctly identifies installed games
* **Environment subdirectory support** - folders (production/staging) properly handled
* **Prevented environment switching** during downloads or patching
* **Game switch prevention** - can't change games while installing/patching
* **Smart environment selector** - automatically disabled during operations
* **System folder protection** - prevents selecting system directories for installation

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FT4GU7PhCRv58G3eLPfmt%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=0f99fbf2-db63-4fd6-941b-f1a0cd0b8b69" alt=""><figcaption><p>Environments Dropdown</p></figcaption></figure>

***

### ⚙️ Launcher Settings Enhancements

#### New Settings Options

* **On App Launch behavior:**
  * Minimize to tray
  * Minimize to taskbar
  * **NEW: Hide completely** for maximum performance
* **Open Cache Folder** button for easy access

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FAEzeDYZ1oTFF8DEClton%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=4b4a4580-449e-46bd-8cef-6f4c04c922ad" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Launcher Settings options</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### About Screen

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Comprehensive About screen in Launcher Settings!
{% endhint %}

* **Launcher version information**
* **Build ID, Timestamp, and commit details**
* **Watermark&#x20;*****(Can be disabled for PRO or superior plans)***

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FXFxUANW78CEoEXx1FcmU%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=e2ce228c-09bd-46f6-9175-cbb6e9ea2bc3" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - About Tab in Launcher Settings</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🔗 Enhanced Social Links & Navigation (Per app and per launcher)

#### New Social Platform Support

* **Patreon** - support link
* **Reddit** - community link
* **Kickstarter** - crowdfunding campaigns
* **Telegram** - chat community
* **Threads** - social updates
* **Custom Link** - configurable URL with custom text

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FxqoB94xsdJcHAnPAh4xV%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=d924d8d0-c188-452c-a6e6-ccf5e9e1695a" alt=""><figcaption><p>All supported links</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Logo Dropdown Menu

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Comprehensive dropdown menu from the top-left launcher logo!
{% endhint %}

* **Quick access** to all important links
* **Privacy Policy** and **Terms of Service links**
* **All social media links** in one place
* **Dynamic visibility** based on launcher configuration
* **Beautiful styling** with separators and icons
* **Logout** button (ready for Login System)

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F3Q6coI1oDLNoXWo3ROid%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=4ebb96bf-bf4e-48a2-a28c-bb351044b845" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Launcher Dropdown</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🎯 Optimized Mode Improvements

{% hint style="success" %}
**ENHANCED:** Dramatically improved resource optimization during gameplay!
{% endhint %}

* **Even lower resource usage** when games are running
* **Hide completely option** - launcher fully hidden for maximum performance
* **Memory usage logging** for performance monitoring
* **Process monitoring** in Optimized Mode UI
* **Support for secondary executables** - launch and track multiple game processes
* **Separate close buttons** for primary and secondary executables
* **"Close Game" button** to terminate running games from launcher
* **Better cleanup routines** with detailed logging
* **Improved exit handling** with error recovery

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FH2DS5CSMGGMgdWCLZreb%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=05c98513-e01a-4f15-9e5e-fbaf02cc3634" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Launcher optimized mode</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🔒 Security & Permissions

#### Windows Firewall Integration

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Automatic firewall exception management!
{% endhint %}

* **Permission request dialog** for firewall exceptions
* **Automatic rule creation** when approved
* **Elevation request** when administrative rights needed
* **Clear user communication** about security requirements
* **Graceful handling** when permissions denied

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FmUKj2bR5337Ri6ZWgnKM%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=82addb4d-6153-4a71-9857-961165885b8b" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Firewall permission request</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 💾 Data Storage Improvements

#### Standard-Compliant Storage Locations

* **Logs, cache, and settings** now stored in platform-standard locations
* **Automatic migration** from old configuration files
* **Better organization** of launcher data
* **Easier to find and backup** settings

#### AppData Directory (Persistent Data) <a href="#id-1-appdata-directory-persistent-data" id="id-1-appdata-directory-persistent-data"></a>

**Location:** `%LocalAppData%\GameLauncher\`

#### Temp Directory (Temporary Files) <a href="#id-2-temp-directory-temporary-files" id="id-2-temp-directory-temporary-files"></a>

**Location:** `%temp%\GameLauncherCache\`

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FYSSdxZA8xbQhfrG0Q3Tw%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=35b50e67-5337-4e21-8300-2d21d1552a99" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Launcher Persistent Data structure</p></figcaption></figure>

#### Enhanced Logging

* **Improved error logging** with better context
* **Detailed flow markers** for initialization
* **Thread-safe logging** across services
* **Better diagnostic information** for support

***

### 🎨 Watermark System

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Game Launcher Cloud watermark
{% endhint %}

* **Branded watermark** on splash screen and main window launcher dropdown and about launcher settings
* **PRO+ plan feature** - disable watermark completely
* **Loads from cached manifest** for offline support

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FseG8XIQgJqLsVc3FFLah%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=32702035-015c-41da-9410-5f895c79c443" alt=""><figcaption><p>Watermark in Splash Screen</p></figcaption></figure>

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FYBLfFVLlARmYbQ1udmbR%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=b533233b-74b4-4037-9c87-388073e40411" alt=""><figcaption><p>Watermark in Launcher Settings About Tab</p></figcaption></figure></div>

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FeVvlNb9iZZZZV0Q5P2oi%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=85648205-2717-4b05-bc2e-47e11be9df8c" alt=""><figcaption><p>Watermark in Launcher Menu Dropdown</p></figcaption></figure>

***

### 🪟 Window Management

#### Dynamic Resolution Support

* **Expanded resolution range** - from 640x360 to 8K (7680x4320)
* **Fixed scaling issues** at smaller and very resolutions
* **Perfect ultra-wide monitor support**
* **Native 4K and 8K display support**

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FveOWoXMszcM3OIH2Kt5q%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=2e6595d9-a1a2-4728-8609-f1ab3a80b14f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### Taskbar Integration

* **System tray icon support** with context menu
* **Show Launcher / Exit** functionality
* This prepares the Launcher for built-in notifications

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FDeTKXjPB61SO7TzKPEQX%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=f9a1c64d-217f-4e47-a174-58494069bf11" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Taskbar Launcher Icon</p></figcaption></figure>

***

### 📊 News & Content Improvements

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FTwwbBAWt2vKibLEkO2HW%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=f5668acb-dd7d-4566-a7ca-857c27e6161c" alt=""><figcaption><p>News Content Improvements</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Slideshow Enhancements

* **Fixed play/pause logic** with correct icon states
* **Improved progress indicators** with better styling
* **Font icon support** for play/pause buttons
* **Better image loading** with caching
* **Animated navigation** between news items

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2Fmx1ylMvAP5L66gvqwqRM%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=377bb3ce-31a7-4faa-a3e6-d203fc6ebfd5" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Slideshow progress indicators</p></figcaption></figure>

***

### 🔄 Status & Progress Tracking

#### Enhanced Status Management

* **Real-time status updates** across all UI elements
* **Thread-safe status changes** with proper dispatching
* **Better error state handling** with user-friendly messages
* **Status indicators** with dynamic icons
* **Progress bar integration** across download/install/patch operations

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FrQlS3SdFrSOSiGOYmVbS%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=387c0ade-01ef-4912-a650-a958ab20bffd" alt=""><figcaption><p>Improved Progress Details</p></figcaption></figure>

#### Download Monitoring

* **Debounced image cache saves** to prevent excessive disk writes
* **Optimized background image loading** for better responsiveness
* **Real-time speed and ETA calculations**
* **Multi-process progress tracking**

***

### 🏗️ Architecture & Code Quality

#### MVVM Pattern Refinement

* **Strict MVVM implementation** across all controls
* **Dedicated ViewModels** for each custom control
* **Better separation of concerns** between UI and logic
* **Reactive properties** with proper notifications
* **OnPush change detection** for better performance

#### Service Refactoring

* **Feature-based namespace organization**
* **Dependency injection** for all services
* **Shared state management** between services
* **Better service lifecycle** management
* **Cleaner service interfaces**

#### Code Cleanup

* **Removed unused code** and obsolete files
* **Consistent naming conventions** throughout codebase
* **Better documentation** with XML comments
* **Improved error handling** with structured logging
* **Resource optimization** for better performance

***

### 🐛 Bug Fixes

#### Installation & Updates

* Fixed game status not updating after download completion
* Fixed installation detection across different environments
* Fixed concurrent access errors during file operations
* Fixed game not showing as installed when folder exists
* Fixed version text visibility when game is not installed
* Fixed update button progress bar state handling

#### UI & Visual

* Fixed window transparency mode application timing
* Fixed splash screen fade-out timing issues
* Fixed news content not clearing on environment change
* Fixed slideshow pause on timer-driven index change
* Fixed favorite games normalization and ordering
* Fixed alert dropdown positioning at different resolutions

#### Downloads & Patching

* Fixed download progress not updating in all UI elements
* Fixed pause/resume download state synchronization
* Fixed status text updates during download operations
* Fixed environment color not showing in downloads list

#### General

* Fixed memory leaks in image cache management
* Fixed thread safety issues in various services
* Fixed crash on startup with certain configurations
* Fixed watermark not loading from cached manifest

***

## 🖥️ Dashboard

### 🎨 Appearance Customization

#### Window Transparency Settings

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Developers can now control launcher window transparency and opacity from the Dashboard!
{% endhint %}

* **Window transparency mode** toggle - enable/disable acrylic blur for your launcher
* **Launcher base opacity** slider (0-100%) - control window opacity
* **Real-time preview** of transparency changes in Dashboard
* **Per-launcher configuration** - different settings for each project
* **End users see the design** you configure - no user-side customization

**Developer Control:** These settings allow you to design your launcher's visual appearance. End users will see exactly what you configure in the Dashboard.

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FCnLBY6EZOReCbjX87FmU%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=5d8a9591-7798-4da0-ac3b-4796e51d809c" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - More Launcher Appearance options</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Progress Bar Customization

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Customize progress bar colors to match your game's theme!
{% endhint %}

* **Primary progress bar color** - main progress indicator
* **Secondary progress bar color** - background/track color
* **Color picker** with hex code support
* **Theme preset integration** - Black and Gray themes

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F5oktZEjqae8WUOQdDFnd%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=d7b630ed-d982-4cc3-b59d-6304f94c1116" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Left Panel Preview with Progress Bar Colors</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Theme Presets

* **Separate Black and Gray** theme options for better variety
* **Enhanced theme color presets** documentation
* **Better visual feedback** in theme selection

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FEb47Vidm9ufiD1lG51sp%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=3afea9a1-9eb2-4667-9fbb-143d4d185cd5" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Black Theme Presets</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Watermark Control

{% hint style="success" %}
**PRO FEATURE:** Disable Game Launcher Cloud watermark on your launchers!
{% endhint %}

* **Watermark toggle** in launcher appearance settings
* **Exclusive to PRO plans and above**
* **Clear indication** of premium feature status

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FyBMnhaLWpwBYp3z0KQOa%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=af710e89-32b7-406f-a791-ae6320ca16aa" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Show Game Launcher Cloud Toggle</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🔗 Social Links & URLs

#### Enhanced Link Support

* **Forums URL** - link to community forums
* **Patreon** - support your project
* **Reddit** - community discussions
* **Kickstarter** - crowdfunding campaigns
* **Telegram** - instant chat community
* **Threads** - social media updates
* **Custom link** - any URL with custom label

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2Fn3UuBhnJCPn7lQ59Wh0r%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=4d4cb0ac-1517-4a29-9bba-7693dcca61b4" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - More Social Media Links</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🏗️ Build Management

#### Build Size Limits and Custom Build Size Limits

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Now you can see your plan build size limits
{% endhint %}

* **Build size limits** by your plan
* **Custom size limits** for specific users
* **Temporary overrides** with expiration dates

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FOpHrf6Qnn3vhJXh0exzA%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=30017d29-e39d-4d53-8f9b-4225cad6c62d" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Build Size Limits</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F34PRdDGlT86cK1kScqkq%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=7eee424d-f7cd-42f0-94c1-4ae355033413" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Custom Build Size Limits</p></figcaption></figure>

#### Build Filtering & Sorting

* **Filter builds** by status and environment
* **Sortable columns** in builds table
* **Pagination support** for app builds list
* **Better build display** performance with lazy loading

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F1M43PyAsXrTi5e3V1m76%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=052b7846-12d3-4b44-8b5f-3398acf86557" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Filters for App/Launcher builds</p></figcaption></figure></div>

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FZaubtHTYKFaTHVCFTAsr%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=9b1e2257-0e31-494b-b190-cf1ed43d6595" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Pagination for App/Launcher builds</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Build Actions

* **'Update to Latest Build'** action in builds alert
* **Admin build cancellation** from dashboard
* **Preparing upload indicator** for better feedback
* **Improved formatting** of build information

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FryDDlxbGePeBNhsflO65%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=4cdbccb6-aa4f-4566-a609-a323f3550361" alt=""><figcaption><p>Improved Active Build is outdated message and added buttons</p></figcaption></figure></div>

#### Custom Versioning

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Custom version numbering for your builds!
{% endhint %}

* **Custom version format** configuration
* **Flexible versioning schemes** (semantic, date-based, custom)
* **Validation** for version format
* **Display customization** in launcher
* **Per-build versioning** control

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FETe5rSfa0ubrIMQDs3Lm%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=2a5f9bf2-325e-45b0-a5a4-d769412d46b6" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Custom Versioning | Build format | in the Launcher</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FkmkEPKUeK238SaQgDRfw%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=17d77e62-da5d-4295-8d9b-d1eba15cd91b" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Custom Versioning | Custom version format | in the Launcher</p></figcaption></figure>

Now you can set the Version Display Format in **App Builds**

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FMRfHHvm1CkbANAmZVQPY%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=14dade7b-7bac-4c2c-894a-757bce05135d" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Version Display Format in App Builds</p></figcaption></figure>

Assign it when **uploading a build**

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FMc2vN3HHF67MhMmnUoxF%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=2009368f-5652-43b8-9c87-6a38f7d782b3" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Add custom version on build upload</p></figcaption></figure></div>

Also assign it for **each build**

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2FShPLyTFRtuqPKVSXSIW1%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=eeb60646-3a86-46ce-961a-87a722ab42d3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### 🔐 CLI Authentication

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Browser-based authentication for CLI tool!
{% endhint %}

* **New CLI authentication page** in dashboard
* **Browser-based login flow** - no more manual token copy/paste
* **Secure token exchange** between browser and CLI
* **Automatic authentication** after browser approval
* **Faster poll intervals** (3 seconds) for quick authentication
* **1-minute timeout** for authentication attempts

**Impact:** CLI authentication is now seamless - just run the login command and approve in your browser!

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F460s92N7YHGGGLNs4J8t%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=5adc78e7-77ca-46ec-afa2-6470848e53ca" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - Browser Login</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

### ✍️ News Editor Enhancements

#### AI-Powered Content Generation

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** AI-assisted content generation for news articles!
{% endhint %}

<div data-full-width="true"><figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2Fw2FVYLdESlJOg0kQHo6J%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=221619f7-9962-41b2-81ef-4c074ba8d35d" alt=""><figcaption><p>NEW - News Per field AI Generator</p></figcaption></figure></div>

* **AI title generation** - suggest engaging titles
* **AI description writing** - create compelling descriptions
* **Section-specific generation** - target specific content areas
* **AI revert functionality** - undo AI suggestions
* **Content merging** - combine AI output with existing content
* **Smart prompting** - context-aware AI suggestions

#### Editor Improvements

* **Enhanced sub-news editor** UI
* **Better layout options** markup for clarity
* **Improved content section** layout
* **Checkbox tooltips** for better guidance
* **Secondary executable labels** updated

***

### 🎯 Performance Optimizations

#### Frontend Performance

* **OnPush change detection** strategy across components
* **RxJS takeUntilDestroyed** for better memory management
* **Computed signals** for reactive updates
* **Virtual scrolling** experiment (reverted for stability)
* **Reduced unnecessary re-renders**

#### Code Quality

* **Refactored translation pipe** usage
* **Improved formatting** and readability
* **Better component organization**
* **Cleaner template syntax**

***

### 💼 Plan & Pricing Updates

#### Enterprise Plan

* **50 App builds** per month (up from previous limit)
* **50 Launcher builds** per month
* **100GB ZIP file limit** for builds
* **125GB extracted size limit** for builds
* **Enhanced support** and features

#### Plan Features

* **Updated plan limits** documentation
* **Better feature visibility** in UI
* **Clearer premium feature indicators**

***

### 🐛 Bug Fixes

#### Dashboard

* Fixed indentation and whitespace in builds tab
* Fixed badge markup for improved readability
* Fixed layout option rendering in news editor
* Fixed admin menu item template formatting
* Fixed copyright year updated to 2026
* Fixed appearance tab overlay z-index issues

#### Build System

* Fixed active job count calculation (excluded deleted builds)
* Fixed build count validation for subscription plans
* Fixed build display filtering by date range

#### General

* Fixed enableForumsUrl synchronization with form changes
* Fixed custom version validation logic
* Fixed build settings singleton registration

***

## 🔧 Backend (API)

### 🚀 Technology Upgrades

#### ASP.NET 10.0 Migration

{% hint style="success" %}
**MAJOR UPDATE:** Backend upgraded to **ASP.NET 10.0** with **C# 14**!
{% endhint %}

* **Latest ASP.NET and .NET 10** for best performance
* **C# 14 language features** for modern, clean code
* **Improved async/await** patterns
* **Better garbage collection**
* **Enhanced security** features
* **Native AOT support** improvements

***

### 🐛 Error Tracking with GlitchTip

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Comprehensive error tracking and monitoring!
{% endhint %}

* **Sentry-compatible error tracking** with GlitchTip
* **Detailed error context** in API requests
* **Real-time error monitoring** for production issues
* **Railway deployment support** for GlitchTip
* **Health check integration** for monitoring
* **Configurable DSN** per environment (Backend/Launcher)

**Benefits:**

* Proactive bug detection
* Faster issue resolution
* Better error insights
* Production stability monitoring

***

### 🔐 CLI Authentication

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Browser-based CLI authentication system!
{% endhint %}

* **New authentication endpoints** for CLI browser flow
* **Secure token generation** and exchange
* **Session management** for CLI authentication
* **Browser-based approval** system
* **1-minute authentication timeout**
* **Automatic token refresh** support

**Endpoints:**

* `POST /api/auth/cli/initiate` - Start authentication flow
* `POST /api/auth/cli/approve` - Approve from browser
* `GET /api/auth/cli/poll` - Check authentication status

***

### 🏗️ Build Management

#### Custom Build Size Limits

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Per-user custom build size limits!
{% endhint %}

* **AppBuildSettings service** for custom limits
* **Expiration date support** for temporary overrides
* **Admin-only configuration** endpoints
* **Automatic filtering** of expired settings
* **Extended timeouts** for builds up to 150GB
* **Quota service integration** for limit checks

#### Build Filtering & Pagination

* **Filter builds by status** and environment
* **Sort builds** by various fields
* **Pagination support** for large build lists
* **Optimized queries** for better performance
* **Reduced payload sizes** with DTO optimization

#### Custom Versioning

* **Custom version formats** per app
* **Flexible version validation**
* **Version format configuration** in app settings
* **Display version customization** in builds
* **Backward compatibility** with existing versions

***

### 📦 Compilation & Deployment

#### Avalonia Launcher Support

* **Cross-compilation libraries** for Avalonia
* **Platform-specific dependencies** handling
* **Single-file output** optimization
* **Native AOT compatibility** preparation
* **Assets directory** support in deployment

#### Build Process Improvements

* **ResponseHeadersRead** in HTTP requests for zipping
* **Optimized dotnet publish** commands
* **Better ZIP footer handling** for large files
* **Improved central directory** handling for large ZIPs
* **Enhanced error logging** during compilation

***

### 🔒 Security & Permissions

#### Premium Features Enforcement

* **Plan validation** before feature activation
* **Clear error messages** for insufficient permissions
* **Audit logging** for premium feature usage

#### API Security

* **Updated Swagger/OpenAPI** documentation
* **Better authentication flows**
* **Token expiration handling**
* **Rate limiting** improvements

***

### 📊 Quota & Limits

#### Quota Service Enhancements

* **Launcher build count** uses QuotaService
* **Better quota validation** logic
* **Clear error messages** when limits exceeded
* **Accurate usage tracking** across resources

#### Plan Limits

* **Enterprise plan updates:**
  * 50 App builds/month
  * 50 Launcher builds/month
  * 100GB ZIP limit
  * 125GB extracted limit

***

### 🗃️ Database & Migrations

#### New Migrations

* **SentryConfiguration** migration for error tracking
* **AddMissingChanges** migration for new features
* **AppBuildSettings** table for custom limits
* **Social links** columns in App and Launcher models
* **Progress bar colors** in appearance settings

#### Model Updates

* **Opacity and transparency** fields in Launcher
* **Custom version format** in App and Build models
* **App description** in LauncherProjectDto
* **Build settings** with custom size limits

***

### 🔧 Configuration & Documentation

#### API Documentation

* **Refactored XML documentation** across controllers
* **OpenAPI/Swagger updates** for new endpoints
* **Consistent doc comments** in models
* **Better endpoint descriptions**

#### Backend Instructions

* **Renamed and relocated** Copilot instructions
* **Updated architecture documentation**
* **Better coding guidelines**
* **Improved project structure** notes

***

### 📧 Email Templates

* **Copyright year updated** to 2026 in all templates
* **Better email formatting**
* **Consistent branding** across communications

***

### 🐛 Bug Fixes

#### Build System

* Fixed active job count calculation excluding deleted builds
* Fixed build count validation for subscription plans
* Fixed custom version validation logic
* Fixed build settings registration as singleton
* Fixed ZIP footer handling for large central directories

#### Compilation

* Fixed dotnet publish optimization flags
* Fixed user mapping in compilation steps
* Fixed Assets directory references
* Fixed cross-compilation library references

#### API

* Fixed OpenTelemetry and Prometheus integration (disabled for stability)
* Fixed Stripe promotion code handling
* Fixed AutoMapper configuration with version downgrade
* Fixed Docker configuration for .NET 10.0

#### General

* Fixed HasLinkedApps calculation in repository
* Fixed filtering of expired build settings
* Fixed Sentry DSN configuration per environment

***

## 🧰 GameLauncherCore (Library)

### 🚀 Performance & Reliability

#### Download Optimization

{% hint style="success" %}
**ENHANCED:** Improved download and extraction reliability!
{% endhint %}

* **Optimized bundle download planning** logic
* **Better file download** error handling
* **Improved extraction reliability** with retry logic
* **Smarter chunk processing** for large files

#### PatchUtils Improvements

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Smart single instance check for patch operations!
{% endhint %}

* **Prevents multiple patch processes** running simultaneously
* **Better resource management** during patching
* **Mutex-based locking** for process synchronization
* **Clearer error messages** when patch already running

***

### 🔧 Build & Deployment

#### .NET 10.0 Update

* **Updated to .NET 10.0** for latest features and performance
* **Assembly version bumped** to reflect update
* **Better compatibility** with new launcher

***

### 🐛 Bug Fixes

* Fixed bundle download planning edge cases
* Fixed file extraction errors with large archives
* Fixed concurrent access issues in patch operations
* Fixed memory usage during large file processing

***

## 🖥️ CLI (Command-Line Tool) updated to 1.0.0.12

### 🔐 Browser-Based Authentication

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW FEATURE:** Seamless browser-based login flow!
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://4290114470-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FbxTY1v1lydkuTpyU2UyA%2Fuploads%2F460s92N7YHGGGLNs4J8t%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=5adc78e7-77ca-46ec-afa2-6470848e53ca" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* **No more manual token copy/paste** required
* **Browser opens automatically** during login
* **Approve authentication** in your browser
* **Automatic token exchange** between CLI and browser
* **3-second poll intervals** for fast authentication
* **1-minute timeout** for authentication attempts
* **Clear status messages** during authentication flow

**Usage:**

```bash
glc-cli login
# Browser opens automatically, approve the login, and you're done!
```

***

### 🐛 Error Tracking with GlitchTip

{% hint style="success" %}
**NEW:** Automated error reporting for CLI tool!
{% endhint %}

* **Sentry integration** for error tracking
* **Global scope context** with user and system info
* **Automatic crash reporting**
* **Better error diagnostics** for support
* **Privacy-focused** error collection

***

### 🚀 Technology Upgrades

#### .NET 10.0 Migration

* **Updated to .NET 10** with **C# 14** for best performance
* **Modern language features** from C# 14
* **Improved build scripts** for .NET 10.0
* **Better async/await** patterns
* **Enhanced CLI performance**

***

### 🐛 Bug Fixes

* Fixed authentication timeout handling
* Fixed browser launch on different platforms
* Fixed poll delay timing for authentication
* Fixed error context initialization

***

{% hint style="info" %}
**UPDATE REQUIRED:**

* **Desktop Launcher:** Update to the latest version to access all new features and improvements!
* **CLI Tool:** Update your CLI to use the new browser-based authentication!
* **Dashboard:** Clear your browser cache (SHIFT + F5) to see all changes!
  {% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Breaking Changes:**

* Desktop launcher now uses platform-standard storage locations. Old config files will be automatically migrated.
* CLI authentication flow has changed - existing token-based auth will continue to work but browser auth is recommended.
  {% endhint %}