annual upgrade Archives

Winsage

December 31, 2025

Microsoft in 2025: year in review

In 2025, Microsoft faced challenges including a slow migration to Windows 11 after the end of Windows 10, with many users opting to stay on the older system due to free Extended Security Updates. The anticipated rush to Windows 11 did not occur, partly because many older PCs did not meet the new system requirements. Microsoft increased its focus on AI integration in Windows 11, but this initiative faced backlash from users concerned about unnecessary features and existing bugs. The annual upgrade brought only minor improvements, and persistent bugs continued to affect user experience, particularly for gamers, who faced disruptions amid rising competition from platforms like SteamOS. Additionally, a significant price increase for Xbox Game Pass led to subscriber cancellations, although revenue remained high. Xbox console sales dropped by 70% year-on-year, while the Surface hardware division did not achieve the same success as the previous year, with new devices failing to generate excitement.

AppWizard

December 19, 2025

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 quietly upgrades Pixel phones where it counts

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 has been released, likely serving as the final refinement before Android 17. Users can disable the "At a Glance" widget on their home screens. The Quick Settings tile now includes a slider for beam intensity control. Users can rearrange the back and recent keys in the three-button navigation bar. The beta version is available for Pixel devices from the Pixel 6 onward, with a stable version expected around March 2026. The update introduces an expandable location indicator in the status bar for app location access. It also includes support for over 160 new emoji from Unicode 17.0. Users should be aware of potential bugs and performance issues while using the beta software.

AppWizard

February 7, 2025

5 PC gaming myths you might still believe (and shouldn’t)

PC gaming does not have to be expensive; entry-level options are accessible and can handle many popular titles. Many modern games run on lower-tier hardware, allowing players to enjoy them without needing powerful systems. Assembling a gaming rig is no longer overly complicated due to the availability of prebuilt PCs and simplified software management. It is rare for gamers to upgrade their PCs every year; many maintain their systems for several years with incremental upgrades. PC gaming is not limited to hardcore gamers; it offers a wide range of titles for all types of players, with support for controllers and frequent discounts available.

Winsage

July 17, 2024

Windows 11 24H2 update may not turn up until late in the year – and given how many plates Microsoft is spinning, that wouldn’t surprise us

Microsoft is preparing an annual update for Windows 11, with a barebones version of Windows 11 24H2 already available on Copilot+ PCs. The full 24H2 update will include all features and is expected to be rolled out to all devices simultaneously later in the year. The company is facing challenges with the update process due to the introduction of new AI features, including Recall, which has been pulled and is being revamped. Due to the workload involved, a Q4 release for the 24H2 update is considered likely, with a September release date no longer being optimistic.