account Archives

Winsage

March 16, 2026

Microsoft has lost the plot: 5 Windows “features” nobody asked for

Windows 11 has faced criticism for design choices that prioritize corporate interests over user experience, including aggressive monetization strategies and privacy concerns. The Recall app was designed to take frequent screenshots of the desktop but functioned like a keylogger, leading to privacy issues. Initially set to be enabled by default on new Copilot+ PCs, backlash prompted Microsoft to make it an opt-in feature during setup, allowing users to uninstall it. Microsoft also introduced biometric encryption and moved screenshot processing to secure enclaves for data protection. The Start Menu has shifted to include third-party advertisements in the "Recommended" section, turning it into a platform for promotions rather than a personal navigation tool. Microsoft replaced the right Control or Menu key with a dedicated Copilot key, disrupting standard keyboard layouts and complicating workflows for users. Setting up a new PC now requires an active internet connection and a Microsoft account, making it difficult to operate without relinquishing digital identity. This change illustrates a shift towards subscription revenue and data collection. Windows 11 often ignores users' default browser choices, defaulting to Microsoft Edge and Bing for web searches initiated from the taskbar, reflecting a trend of prioritizing Microsoft's ecosystem over user autonomy. These developments indicate a strategy by Microsoft to erode user control, suggesting users are becoming products rather than customers as the company focuses on data collection and subscription services.

Winsage

March 15, 2026

I stopped letting Windows 11 “help” with my files—my PC feels faster now

Windows File Explorer's performance has declined due to the accumulation of features that have made it more cumbersome. Users can improve performance by disabling certain features: 1. Disable OneDrive: OneDrive consumes over a gigabyte of memory during syncing. To disable it, right-click the cloud icon in the system tray, access settings, unlink the PC, and disable it from auto-launching in Task Manager. 2. Turn off Bitlocker: Bitlocker encrypts drives by default, which can slow down file operations. To disable it, go to Control Panel > System & Security > Bitlocker Encryption and select Turn Bitlocker off. 3. Disable automatic folder type discovery: This feature can cause lag when opening folders. To disable it, edit the Windows Registry by navigating to a specific path and creating a new String Value named "FolderType" with the value "NotSpecified." 4. Turn off Windows Search indexing: Windows Search consumes resources and may perform poorly. To disable it, access services.msc, stop Windows Search, and change its Startup type to Disable. Users can then download and use the tool "Everything" for a more efficient search experience.

Winsage

March 15, 2026

Microsoft Updates Windows 11 ISO Tool, How To Install It Without A Microsoft Account Or Internet Connection

A clean install of Windows can improve system performance and resolve issues. To begin, back up important files to a NAS, secondary PC, external storage, or cloud service. Wipe the system disk and start fresh. For installing Windows 11, options include performing a Cloud Download reinstall via the Windows Recovery Environment or using external storage with Microsoft's Media Creation Tool or an ISO. Microsoft updates installation ISOs monthly, reducing the need for additional driver installations. Download necessary drivers beforehand, focusing on graphics and chipset drivers. To perform a clean installation, download the latest Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) from Microsoft's website and use Rufus to write it to external storage. Rufus allows bypassing certain Windows 11 requirements, such as Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, and can facilitate creating a local account instead of using a Microsoft account. Ensure updated BIOS installations are checked if applicable. After writing the installation media, boot from it by accessing the boot menu or adjusting the UEFI setup. During installation, delete existing partitions and select empty space to proceed. Finally, install drivers post-installation.

AppWizard

March 15, 2026

Meta rolls out scam warnings on Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp

Meta has launched a suite of AI-driven tools to enhance security on Facebook and Instagram, responding to challenges from scammers. In 2025, Meta removed over 159 million fraudulent ads and collaborated with law enforcement, resulting in the disabling of more than 150,000 accounts and 21 arrests. New features include real-time warnings for suspicious friend requests on Facebook, a WhatsApp alert system for fraudulent device linking, and expanded scam detection in Messenger. No new security measures have been announced for Instagram, which is experiencing a rise in password reset emails. Meta aims to increase verified advertisers in high-risk ad categories to 90% of ad revenue by the end of 2026, up from 70%.

Winsage

March 14, 2026

A nasty Windows 11 bug is causing the C drive to become inaccessible in select devices, says Microsoft

Following the February Windows 11 update (KB5077181), some Samsung devices, particularly the Galaxy Book 4, are experiencing an error that prevents access to the C: drive, displaying the message "C: is not accessible - Access denied." This issue affects users' ability to access files, launch applications, and perform administrative tasks, locking them out of essential programs like Outlook and Office applications. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem, but the root cause remains unclear, possibly linked to the Samsung Share application. Users have suggested risky workarounds, such as modifying C: drive security permissions, but these may lead to further complications. The recommended safer options include uninstalling the update or waiting for an official patch from Microsoft.

AppWizard

March 14, 2026

Gemini screen automation for Android apps has free, AI Pro usage limits

Google has rolled out its Gemini screen automation feature on the Galaxy S26, allowing users to execute commands within a virtual window on the device. Free account users have a daily limit of 5 requests, while Google AI Plus subscribers can make 12 requests for .99, AI Pro members can make 20 requests for .99, and Google AI Ultra subscribers can make 120 requests for .99. The screen automation feature supports services like Lyft, Uber, GrubHub, DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Starbucks. It is currently available on the Galaxy S26 series in the US and Korea, with support for Pixel 10 devices coming soon.

AppWizard

March 14, 2026

STORMIND GAMES REVEALS REMOTHERED: RED NUN’S LEGACY FOR PC & CONSOLES

Stormind Games announced the third installment of the Remothered survival horror franchise, titled Remothered: Red Nun’s Legacy, set to launch later this year on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. The game aims to provide a conclusion to the narratives of its predecessors while introducing new gameplay elements and storytelling techniques. CEO Antonio Cannata emphasized the studio's commitment to the franchise, and Game Director Antonio Cutrona noted that the game will feature new skills and a standalone experience for newcomers while offering closure for long-time fans. Players will navigate a convent filled with secrets and face Stalkers while uncovering the truth behind the Red Nun. Key features include survival mechanics, homage to classic horror, hypnosis powers, exploration of a detailed world, and uncovering the story of the Cristo Morente. Players can wishlist the game on various platforms and follow updates on social media.

Winsage

March 14, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8062 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8062 (KB 5079458) has been released to the Beta Channel, introducing various changes and improvements. 1. Policy-Based Removal of Preinstalled Microsoft Apps: IT administrators can now use a dynamic app removal list to remove MSIX/APPX apps by adding their package family names through Group Policy. The dynamic list is not yet available in Intune CSP. 2. Windows Setup Experience: Users can select a custom name for their user folder during the Windows setup process, which must adhere to standard naming conventions. 3. Windows Driver Policy Update: A new policy removes default trust for cross-signed drivers, allowing third-party drivers from the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) by default. The feature will initially operate in audit mode for at least 100 hours. 4. Point-in-Time Restore Updates: Local administrators will see a settings dialog to view or modify default restore settings, including a list of available restore points. Updated messaging has been added to the restore experience. 5. Drag Tray Rebranding: The Drag Tray has been rebranded as Drop Tray, with settings relocated to System > Multitasking. 6. Pen Settings: Refinements have been made to the Pen settings page, including an option for the pen tail button to launch the same app as the Copilot key. 7. File Explorer and Other Enhancements: Improvements have been made to the reliability of setting the preferred display language, and unexpected errors from the sfc/scannow command have been removed. Updates are gradually rolled out to Insiders who opt in via Settings > Windows Update, and features may evolve or be removed based on feedback.

Winsage

March 13, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8068 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8068 (KB 5079464) has been released to the Dev Channel. Key changes include: - Enhanced policy for removing preinstalled Microsoft Store apps for Windows ENT/EDU, allowing IT administrators to use a dynamic app removal list via Group Policy. - Users can now select a custom name for their user folder during the Windows setup process. - A new policy removes default trust for cross-signed drivers, allowing third-party drivers from the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) by default, initially operating in audit mode. - Point-in-time restore now includes a settings dialog for local administrators and displays available restore points. - Microsoft 365 Family subscribers can upgrade their plan directly from the Accounts page in Settings. - The Drag Tray feature has been rebranded to Drop Tray, with settings relocated. - Updates to Pen settings include a new option for the pen tail button. - Enhanced reliability for preferred display language settings and removal of an unexpected error from sfc/scannow. Updates are gradually rolled out to users who opt in through the Settings menu under Windows Update.

AppWizard

March 13, 2026

The FBI is looking for victimized Steam users who downloaded games with hidden malware — Investigation underway into multiple infected titles from 2024 to 2026

The FBI is investigating malware-infested games on Steam that may have affected players between 2024 and 2026. Affected individuals are encouraged to come forward confidentially. Notable games under scrutiny include Chemia, Dashverse / DashFPS, Lampy, Lunara, PirateFi, Tokenova, and BlockBasters, the latter of which reportedly siphoned off ,000 in cancer donations from a streamer. Cybercriminals exploit players logged into multiple platforms, compromising their online presence and Steam libraries. Valve is working to combat these threats, but the volume of new releases can overwhelm their vetting system. The FBI urges reporting relevant information to assist in prosecuting offenders. Affected individuals can fill out a form on the FBI's website or email Steam_Malware@fbi.gov to report incidents.