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Windows 11 Is A Broken Mess (And Microsoft Knows)
Winsage
January 6, 2026

Windows 11 Is A Broken Mess (And Microsoft Knows)

Microsoft's Xbox division has undergone significant cuts, and Pavan Davuluri, the president of Windows + Devices, has faced criticism on social media. User dissatisfaction with Windows 11 is rising due to stringent hardware requirements like TPM 2.0, design flaws, and unresolved bugs. Many users feel locked out of upgrading to Windows 11, leading to frustration. Reports indicate a 70% increase in Linux installations compared to the previous year, as some users abandon Windows 11. Despite declining user engagement with Copilot since 2024, it is still marketed as the fastest-growing product within Microsoft 365, though this growth may be artificially inflated. Microsoft is prioritizing AI integration, which has not resonated well with users. The company risks a significant decline in valuation if it does not address user feedback and improve Windows 11.
Microsoft’s latest ad proves even its own marketing team won't use Edge
Winsage
January 6, 2026

Microsoft’s latest ad proves even its own marketing team won’t use Edge

Microsoft's recent advertisement for PC gaming featured Google Chrome pinned to the taskbar of a Windows computer, despite the company's promotion of its own browser, Microsoft Edge. The ad displayed Chrome prominently early in the video, which is notable given that nearly 95% of Steam gamers use Windows, with 70.83% having upgraded to Windows 11. Although Windows dominates the gaming sector, there is a growing interest in alternatives like Linux, which now supports about 90% of Windows games, though major titles remain unavailable due to anti-cheat systems. The inclusion of Chrome in the ad is seen as an anomaly, as promotional content typically avoids showcasing competitors. It is also noted that not all Microsoft employees exclusively use Microsoft Edge, suggesting a disconnect between the company's advertising and user behavior.
Android 16 QPR3 Alerts for Apps Using Your Location
AppWizard
December 19, 2025

Android 16 QPR3 Alerts for Apps Using Your Location

Android is introducing a real-time privacy feature in the Android 16 QPR3 beta that notifies users whenever an app requests access to their location. A blue dot appears next to the battery indicator when location data is actively being used, and users can swipe down to see which apps are accessing their location. This feature aims to enhance user awareness and control over location tracking by providing immediate notifications and options to manage permissions. The feature is currently available for Pixel devices, with plans for broader rollout in future updates. It aligns with Android's ongoing efforts to improve privacy, including one-time permissions and background access queries. Developers will not need to opt into this feature, as it will automatically display whenever an app requests location data.
Vast Number of Windows Users Refusing to Upgrade After Microsoft's Embrace of AI Slop
Winsage
December 6, 2025

Vast Number of Windows Users Refusing to Upgrade After Microsoft’s Embrace of AI Slop

Microsoft has discontinued support for Windows 10, which still runs on approximately 1 billion PCs, with about 500 million eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11. Many users are resistant to upgrading due to dissatisfaction with the new interface, compatibility issues, intrusive advertisements, and aggressive AI integration. The potential for cybersecurity vulnerabilities increases as Windows 10 is no longer supported, and an estimated 1.6 billion pounds of electronic waste may result from this discontinuation. Microsoft is pursuing an "AI PC" vision, aiming to integrate AI features into the operating system, while acknowledging user feedback and concerns about usability.
'Big Brother cannot watch us': Indian government phone app plan sparks outrage
AppWizard
December 2, 2025

‘Big Brother cannot watch us’: Indian government phone app plan sparks outrage

India has directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a government-operated cybersecurity application called Sanchar Saathi on all mobile devices manufactured or imported for use within the country. The app is designed to enhance protection against fraud and cyber threats, allowing users to block and track lost or stolen phones and identify fraudulent mobile subscriptions. Major smartphone companies have a 90-day compliance window, and the app must be visible and accessible during device setup. Critics, including the Internet Freedom Foundation, have raised concerns about user privacy and governmental control over personal devices, while the Indian telecom minister described the app as a voluntary system. The government also requires that the app be pushed to devices already in circulation through software updates. Political opposition has emerged, with calls for the order's retraction, citing constitutional concerns.
Legendary game designer, programmer, Space Invaders champion, and LGBTQ trailblazer Rebecca Heineman has died
AppWizard
November 18, 2025

Legendary game designer, programmer, Space Invaders champion, and LGBTQ trailblazer Rebecca Heineman has died

Rebecca Heineman, a pioneering figure in the gaming industry, passed away at the age of 62 following a recent cancer diagnosis. She was the first officially recognized U.S. champion of a video game, winning a national Space Invaders tournament in 1980. Over her career, she contributed to 67 games and was known for her programming skills, including porting titles like Wolfenstein 3D and Baldur's Gate. Heineman publicly embraced her identity as a transgender woman and was an advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity in technology. She faced an aggressive cancer diagnosis in early 2024, prompting her to seek support through GoFundMe for treatment costs. After her passing, tributes from the gaming community highlighted her contributions to foundational games and her kindness towards others.
Malwarebytes scores 100% in AV Comparatives Stalkerware Test 2025
Tech Optimizer
November 7, 2025

Malwarebytes scores 100% in AV Comparatives Stalkerware Test 2025

The AV-Comparatives Stalkerware Test 2025 evaluated 13 Android security solutions against 17 stalkerware-type applications. The test revealed that stalkerware remains a significant threat, often installed covertly and designed to evade detection. Malwarebytes achieved a perfect 100% detection rate, while Bitdefender, ESET, Kaspersky, and McAfee each detected 94%. Avast, Avira, and F-Secure identified 88%, Norton and Sophos around 82%, and G Data (65%), Google (53%), and Trend Micro (59%) had lower detection rates. The evaluation emphasized the importance of clear communication of threats to potential victims. Malwarebytes' involvement in the Coalition Against Stalkerware highlights its commitment to user safety and effective detection of stalkerware.
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