24H2 Update Archives

Winsage

February 24, 2026

How to Disable Copilot in Windows 11 — Uninstall, Hide, and Stop It from Coming Back

Microsoft has integrated its AI assistant, Copilot, into various parts of Windows 11, including the taskbar, Edge, and Notepad. Users have expressed a desire to remove Copilot, leading to the creation of a guide detailing methods to disable it. Copilot can be uninstalled through Settings, but additional steps are required to remove it from Edge, Notepad, and Windows Search. Users can also prevent Copilot from reinstalling after updates by adjusting registry settings. The Copilot app is categorized as a standalone application in Windows 11 24H2, making it easier to uninstall compared to previous versions. Methods to disable Copilot include: 1. Uninstalling the app via Settings. 2. Hiding the icon from the taskbar. 3. Using Group Policy Editor (limited to Pro, Enterprise, Education). 4. Removing Copilot for all users using PowerShell. 5. Adjusting settings in Edge and Notepad to disable Copilot features. 6. Editing the registry to remove Copilot from Windows Search and Paint. 7. Remapping the physical Copilot key on newer laptops. 8. Disabling silent reinstallation of Copilot through registry edits. Disabling Copilot will not affect core Windows functionality but will remove AI-specific features such as the chatbot and writing assistance.

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Microsoft’s new Windows 11 update fixes nasty bug that left gamers staring at the dreaded ‘Black Screen of Death’

Windows 11 has encountered a bug causing complete system lock-ups for gamers, identified as the 'Kernel Security Check Failure' error, leading to the Black Screen of Death (BSOD). Microsoft has addressed this issue in the February update, which targets problems related to certain GPU configurations linked to the dxgmms2.sys file. The bug primarily affected Nvidia graphics cards but could impact all brands, including AMD and Intel. The February update also resolves connectivity issues with Wi-Fi networks using WPA3 encryption. Users are encouraged to install the update to mitigate these problems.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

“Windows 11 26H1” is a special version of Windows exclusively for new Arm PCs

The recent developments in Windows versions present challenges for app developers and IT professionals, particularly with the introduction of a new Windows version designed exclusively for the latest Arm PCs. This shift highlights Microsoft's commitment to Arm processors, moving away from its historical focus on x86 versions. The 24H2 update for Windows 10 and 11 introduced significant enhancements for Arm PCs, including an optimized x86-to-Arm translation layer called Prism, improving compatibility and performance for applications not originally designed for Arm. This update coincided with the launch of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X-series processors, leading to more Arm-native Windows applications being released by third-party developers. Microsoft's hardware strategy has shifted, as the new Surface PCs launched in mid-2024 now exclusively use Qualcomm processors, moving away from Intel chips. Since the 24H2 update, development on Arm and x86 versions of Windows has progressed at different rates, with certain features available on Arm versions earlier than on x86 systems. Windows 11 24H2 was also available on Arm PCs in retail stores months before being released to the broader PC ecosystem. Microsoft has been contacted for details on the upcoming Windows 11 26H1 update and its potential enhancements.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

Microsoft is finally fixing Windows 11 under the hood — but new stats suggest it could be too little, too late

Microsoft is introducing significant platform changes with Windows 11, specifically the 26300 series in the Dev channel. Recent statistics from Statcounter indicate a decline in Windows 11's market share from 55.18% in October 2025 to 50.73% in December, a decrease of approximately 4.5%. In contrast, Windows 10's user base has increased by 3%, while Windows 7 has seen a 1.3% uptick. Microsoft is launching the Bromine platform to support Arm-based laptops, separating its development from existing Windows 11 systems. The upcoming Windows 11 26H1 will specifically cater to Arm devices, while non-Arm PCs will receive updates based on the Germanium platform. The company aims to improve stability and rebuild consumer trust amid ongoing concerns about bugs and AI integration.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

‘Windows 11 25H2 edges ahead of Windows 10 in gaming performance’: testing proves newer OS is faster — but there’s an elephant-sized BSOD in the room

Windows 11 version 25H2 has outperformed Windows 10 (22H2) in gaming benchmarks, a shift from earlier assessments where Windows 10 was faster than Windows 11 23H2. The improvements in Windows 11's gaming capabilities were largely due to the 24H2 update. Testing was conducted on high-end hardware, specifically with an AMD Ryzen 9800X3D processor and Nvidia RTX 5090 GPU, and results may vary with different setups. Games like Arc Raiders and Borderlands 4 showed performance increases of 11% and 9% to 13%, respectively, on Windows 11. However, Windows 11 has faced bugs and glitches, including boot failures and sleep mode issues, particularly on older PCs, leading to hesitation among gamers about upgrading from Windows 10, which remains stable with only security updates. The deadline for Windows 10's extended support is October 2026, prompting users to consider upgrades or new purchases.

Winsage

January 28, 2026

Windows 11 26H2: Expected features, platform changes, and potential release schedule

Windows 11 follows an annual feature update schedule, with the 26H2 update expected to launch in late 2026. This update will be the next major version after 25H2 and will continue to use the Germanium platform. It may function as an enablement package, activating existing features rather than introducing new ones. Anticipated features include increased AI capabilities in applications like Paint and Notepad, refined dark mode options, a revamped Run dialogue box, an AI-powered search feature, and the Xbox Full Screen experience. The build number will increase to 26300. The 26H2 update is projected for a September or October release in 2026.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Hardware Unboxed Debunks Windows 11 Gaming Performance Myth

Windows 11 has shown significant performance improvements for gaming, particularly after the 25H2 update. At 4K resolution, Windows 11 averages 141 frames per second (fps), while Windows 10 averages 134 fps. At 1440p, Windows 11 achieves 194 fps compared to Windows 10's 185 fps. The 24H2 update notably enhanced gaming performance, especially for AMD processor users. Microsoft plans further optimizations for Windows 11, which may continue to benefit gamers as we approach 2026.

Winsage

December 30, 2025

5 big problems with Windows 11 that I really hope Microsoft fixes in 2026

Microsoft's Windows 11 has faced numerous challenges in 2025, including bugs affecting core functionalities, leading to user frustration. The company has acknowledged these performance issues and started a data collection effort to address them, resulting in some improvements like a fix for File Explorer's sluggishness. However, many users still experience responsiveness issues, particularly with the right-click menu. For gamers, Windows 11 introduced features like Auto HDR, but the potential of DirectStorage remains largely unused, with recent updates causing gaming-related glitches and crashes. Microsoft has recognized the need for improvement in gaming performance amid competition from platforms like SteamOS. The quality assurance process for Windows 11 has been criticized due to bizarre bugs and interface inconsistencies, prompting calls for Microsoft to enhance its testing processes. Users have expressed a desire for the company to focus on fixing existing issues rather than prioritizing AI integration. Additionally, users are frustrated with the presence of advertisements in the operating system, seeking a more streamlined interface free from excessive promotional content.

Winsage

November 22, 2025

Pretty much everything important on Windows 11 has broken, says Microsoft

Windows 11 has encountered significant issues, including failures in the Windows Recovery Environment and complications during the migration from Windows 10 to 11. The recent Windows 11 24H2 update has led to critical failures for users, affecting core shell components such as explorer.exe, shelhost.exe, StartMenuExperienceHost, and ImmersiveShell. Symptoms include application crashes when initializing XAML views, explorer running without a taskbar, failure of the Start menu to launch, silent failures of System Settings, and crashes of ShellHost.exe. Microsoft attributes these problems to applications dependent on XAML packages not registering in time after the update. Reports indicate a shift in user preference, with a Linux distribution for former Windows users achieving 780,000 downloads within a month, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with Windows.

Winsage

October 30, 2025

Microsoft Quest Mixed Reality Link Finally Goes Public

Microsoft and Meta have launched the Mixed Reality Link for Windows 11 and Meta Quest headsets, making it accessible to all users and enhancing workspace flexibility and cross-platform integration. The mixed reality market is projected to reach billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 34.26%. Users need a Meta Quest 3 or Quest 3S headset and Windows 11 22H2 or newer to utilize the integration, which simplifies setup with a QR code and allows for easy reconnection. Users can create up to three virtual monitors, improving remote work experiences and reducing hardware costs for enterprises. The Quest 3 offers better resolution than the Quest 3S, and the passthrough capability allows users to stay aware of their surroundings while working. Current challenges include issues with Teams calls and the need for wired input devices, with plans for wireless support in future updates. The Mixed Reality Link is free to use, facilitating pilot programs for enterprises. Microsoft's strategy includes partnerships beyond Meta, aiming to provide a platform-agnostic productivity solution. The collaboration is expected to lead to built-in features on Windows and Quest devices, enhancing mixed reality capabilities and democratizing access as 5G networks develop.