adoption Archives

Winsage

June 26, 2025

The Great Migration Starts Here

Organizations must transition to Windows 11 Pro by October 14, 2025, as Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, increasing vulnerability to cyber threats. The upgrade is complimentary for eligible Windows 10 devices, but compatible hardware is necessary to utilize enhanced security and performance features. Windows 11 Pro PCs include built-in security tools like Windows Hello, BitLocker encryption, and TPM 2.0. Windows AI PCs feature intelligent tools like Windows Copilot for improved efficiency, while Copilot+ PCs, launching in mid-2024, will have dedicated AI processors for advanced capabilities. Security features such as Secure Boot, Virtualization-Based Security, and BitLocker encryption are integral to Windows 11 Pro devices, mitigating risks of malware and unauthorized access. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro enhances device stability and aligns with sustainability goals through energy-efficient designs.

AppWizard

June 25, 2025

Russia set to develop national messaging app

Russian President Vladimir Putin has endorsed the development of a national messaging application aimed at enhancing digital communication within public institutions. The initiative addresses security concerns over popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. The Digital Development Ministry is leading the project, which may be inspired by China's WeChat and based on the Max application from Russian tech company VK. The app is expected to be pre-installed on new smartphones sold in Russia and mandated for use in public institutions.

AppWizard

June 25, 2025

Putin signs-off on state messaging app

Russian President Vladimir Putin has endorsed the creation of a state-backed messaging platform to reduce reliance on foreign services. The new app will integrate with government services and address security vulnerabilities in existing platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. It will be pre-installed on all new smartphones sold in Russia and mandated for communication within public institutions. This initiative aims to enhance Russia's digital sovereignty amid the withdrawal of Western tech firms since the Ukraine conflict began in February 2022. There are concerns about user privacy and potential state surveillance, with critics suggesting the government may restrict access to foreign messaging services to promote the state-run alternative.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Windows 11 migration shows surprising surge for some businesses – but for once, desktop is leading the way

Desktop shipments to businesses increased by 22%, accounting for 17% of total enterprise PC sales, as companies prepare for the end of support for Windows 10. In contrast, overall PC shipments for consumers rose by only 9%. Canalys reported that during the first four months of 2025, overall PC shipments rose by an average of 9%, with desktops increasing by 8% and notebooks by 10%. Windows 11 adoption is currently at 43%, while Windows 10 stands at 53%. IDC forecasts a potential contraction in the global PC market due to stabilization from the migration to Windows 11 and expected worsening macroeconomic conditions.

AppWizard

June 23, 2025

Iran encourages citizens to use a messaging app previously flagged as a state surveillance tool

Iranian authorities are promoting the domestic messaging app Bale for communication with family abroad amid a near-total internet blackout since June 18, 2025. Bale has 16.5 million monthly active users as of May 2023, with increased adoption following restrictions on Western apps after 2022 protests. A security audit by the Open Technology Fund revealed critical vulnerabilities in Bale and two other Iranian messaging apps, Eitaa and Rubika, including the lack of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and potential state surveillance through a state-owned service called the Message Exchange Bus (MXB). Bale's encryption could compromise sensitive data and shares location data during authentication. Experts recommend more secure alternatives like Signal and advise against using Bale for sensitive communications. Since the blackout, internet connectivity remains poor, with the government urging citizens to delete WhatsApp and imposing restrictions that have increased VPN usage by over 700%.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Denmark will stick with Windows — government still plans to ditch Microsoft Office

The Denmark Ministry of Digital Affairs is transitioning from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice while continuing to use Windows. This migration will occur gradually over the coming months, motivated by a desire for enhanced digital sovereignty. Microsoft has expanded its Sovereign Cloud offerings to provide companies with greater control over their data, ensuring that European data remains within the continent and managed by European employees.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Linux users are finally realizing what it takes to help others make the switch

Microsoft will cease all support for Windows 10 on October 14, including software and security updates. In response, advocates have launched the End of 10 website to assist users transitioning to Linux, highlighting advantages such as no new hardware costs, enhanced privacy, environmental benefits, community support, and greater user control. The Linux community, including organizations like GNOME and Debian, supports this initiative, emphasizing local community resources for users. Despite its appeal, Linux remains intimidating for many, but distributions like Ubuntu and Pop!_OS aim to create user-friendly environments. Valve's Proton has improved gaming on Linux, allowing users to play thousands of games easily. Linux powers a wide range of devices beyond desktops, and while not every user may switch, the community's efforts are increasing its adoption as an alternative to Windows 10.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

With 114 days left until Windows 10 support is ditched, Windows 11 enjoys a last-minute surge in upgrades

Microsoft plans to discontinue support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, despite a strong preference for it among users. As of June 2025, Windows 10's market share dropped from 66% to 49%, while Windows 11's share increased from 29% to over 47%. The gap between the two operating systems has narrowed to 1%. Microsoft has implemented full-screen reminders to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11, branding 2025 as the "year of the Windows 11 PC refresh." Windows 11 adoption has increased, but many PCs are unable to upgrade due to stringent minimum system requirements, which include a 64-bit processor, at least 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and TPM version 2.0. Microsoft introduced a new category of Windows 11 PCs called Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced capabilities and security measures. Starting October 14, 2025, users on Windows 10 will not receive free updates, leaving them vulnerable to security risks. Users whose PCs do not meet the requirements for Windows 11 can either buy new machines or subscribe to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued support. Enterprise users will pay £48 for the first year of ESU, increasing to £192 for the third year, while consumers can access it for £24 for an additional year. Some users are exploring alternatives like Linux or ChromeOS Flex for older hardware.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Windows 11 migration heats up… on desktops

Businesses are upgrading their desktop PCs in anticipation of the end of support for Windows 10, which is less than four months away. Recent data shows a 22 percent increase in desktop shipments to enterprise customers in Europe during April and May, with revenue rising by 17 percent. Desktops accounted for nearly 17 percent of total PC revenues in early Q2, the highest level in two years. Germany saw significant sales growth, leading to availability issues, while the UK and Poland also experienced increases in desktop sales. Despite this surge, Windows 10 still held a 53.9 percent share of the global desktop Windows market in May, compared to 43.22 percent for Windows 11, with some customers hesitant to adopt the new OS due to economic factors and hardware incompatibilities. Major PC manufacturers have noted a delayed refresh cycle, but signs of growth are emerging. Notebook sales have increased modestly, with unit sales up 2 percent and revenue up 7 percent, driven by AI-ready devices, though adoption is limited by application availability and higher prices. Desktops are crucial for businesses transitioning to Windows 11.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft testing physical-to-cloud PC failover

Microsoft has introduced a preview of "Windows 365 Reserve," which offers pre-configured cloud PCs for users when their primary devices are unavailable. The service includes essential Microsoft 365 applications, user-specific security policies, and customizations. Users can access a Cloud PC for up to 10 days per year, with the option to use the time all at once or in shorter sessions. Key features include data synchronization via OneDrive, pre-loaded corporate applications, and management through Microsoft Intune. Enhanced security measures involve disabling certain redirections and implementing virtualization-based security. Additionally, Microsoft is conducting a private preview of Windows 365 Cloud Apps for secure access to individual applications without needing a dedicated Cloud PC. Improvements to Windows 365 Link include a new "Connection Center" for selecting multiple Cloud PCs, enhanced multi-monitor support, and NFC card login capabilities.