app Archives

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Windows users are angry, and Microsoft is finally doing something about it

Microsoft is addressing user dissatisfaction with Windows 11 by implementing several changes. These include enhanced taskbar customization, allowing users to reposition the taskbar; a more selective integration of AI features, reducing unnecessary AI entry points in applications; greater control over updates, enabling users to skip or pause updates; performance improvements aimed at reducing sluggishness in File Explorer and enhancing memory efficiency; and increased reliability by focusing on reducing crashes and improving app stability. Additionally, Microsoft plans to enhance various functionalities, including Bluetooth and USB connectivity, printer support, and search functionality, while also making widgets less intrusive.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Microsoft will no longer auto-install M365 Copilot app on Windows PCs

Microsoft has temporarily suspended the automatic installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows PCs equipped with M365 applications due to user resistance. The rollout, which began in December, was intended to integrate AI functionalities across tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Users in the European Economic Area were excluded by default, and IT administrators had the option to opt out. Existing installations of the app will not be removed, and users can choose to uninstall it if desired. Microsoft plans to provide further updates before any future rollout.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

I don’t recognize the Android I fell in love with anymore

In 2010, the author purchased a Samsung Galaxy 5, which introduced them to the Android ecosystem characterized by freedom, openness, and choice. By 2026, the Android platform had evolved significantly, with restrictions on sideloading impacting the author's nostalgic view of the system. The early 2010s were marked by diverse hardware innovations, such as microSD expansion and customizable features, alongside software freedom that allowed for extensive customization and app installations. Over time, Android transitioned to a more structured ecosystem focused on user safety, reflecting the need to protect personal information. The author acknowledges the trade-off between openness and security, recognizing the importance of safeguarding users, even if it means accepting a more restrictive environment.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Cyber actors linked to Russia target messaging app users, FBI warns

The United States has issued a warning about cyber actors linked to Russian intelligence targeting users of commercial messaging applications, particularly Signal, compromising thousands of accounts worldwide. The FBI and CISA released a public service announcement detailing the operation's focus on individuals of “high intelligence value,” including U.S. government officials, military personnel, political figures, and journalists. Attackers have not breached the encryption of these platforms but manipulate users into disclosing credentials or linking devices. Russian intelligence-linked actors often pose as official support accounts, creating urgency to obtain security codes. Dutch intelligence agencies also reported a similar campaign targeting Signal and WhatsApp accounts of dignitaries and military personnel. Users are urged to be cautious of suspicious messages and to avoid sharing personal information. Signal reaffirmed that its encryption remains intact, emphasizing that vulnerabilities arise from user behavior rather than technical flaws in the application itself.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Microsoft rolls back some of its Copilot AI bloat on Windows

Microsoft is reducing the number of entry points for its AI assistant, Copilot, in Windows 11, scaling back features in applications like Photos, Widgets, Notepad, and the Snipping Tool. This decision aims to create more meaningful AI experiences for users. Pavan Davuluri emphasized the importance of intentionality in AI interactions. A Pew Research study indicates that as of June 2025, half of U.S. adults are more concerned than excited about AI. Microsoft has previously abandoned plans for broader Copilot integrations and postponed the launch of the AI-powered memory feature, Windows Recall, due to privacy concerns. User feedback is influencing Microsoft's AI strategy, and additional enhancements to Windows 11 will include taskbar repositioning, improved control over system updates, faster File Explorer performance, and a better Widgets interface.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Russia thwarts protests over the blocking of a popular messaging app, but frustration persists

Authorities in nearly a dozen Russian regions have employed various justifications to cancel demonstrations against internet censorship and the blocking of Telegram, including citing "tree inspections," snow removal issues, and COVID-19 restrictions. Activists have largely refrained from unauthorized rallies due to increased crackdowns, opting instead for court challenges or smaller indoor gatherings. Telegram, with approximately 93.6 million users in Russia, is crucial for communication among government agencies and military bloggers, despite the government's push for a state-backed alternative. Protests against Telegram's restrictions have occurred, even among groups typically supportive of the Kremlin, with some activists being detained during attempts to demonstrate. Instances of small pickets have emerged, although many requests for rally permits are denied. Legal actions against the government regarding Telegram's restrictions have also begun, with a growing number of plaintiffs challenging the measures as violations of free speech and privacy rights.

Tech Optimizer

March 21, 2026

Avast VPN: An in-depth review of its speed, security and value

Avast launched its VPN service, Avast Secureline VPN, in 2017, focusing on encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection. The company operates outside the 5, 9, or 14 Eyes alliances, which limits data-sharing with intelligence agencies. In January 2020, Avast faced criticism for collecting user data for its subsidiary, Jumpshot, but ceased this practice shortly after. The VPN offers dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting, basic split tunneling, and a kill switch, but lacks comprehensive features compared to competitors. Supported protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec, with encryption standards generally secure. Avast claims to operate 700 servers across 27 countries, with a limited selection of streaming-optimized servers. The app supports various platforms but lacks support for Linux or routers. Speed tests showed an average download speed of 275.69 Mbps, but performance in unblocking content was disappointing, with limited success on streaming services. Avast's privacy policy indicates extensive data collection, despite claims of addressing past issues. Customer support includes 24/7 access for paying customers. Pricing tiers include a 60-day free trial, with competitive rates but limited features. Pros include decent speeds and reasonable pricing, while cons highlight controversial data practices, limited information, poor streaming performance, and fewer features compared to competitors.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Microsoft announces major Windows 11 updates designed to fix biggest flaws

Microsoft has announced plans to enhance Windows 11, focusing on user feedback from the past two years. Key improvements will include better system performance, app responsiveness, and user interface adjustments. Users can expect enhancements in tools like File Explorer and the Windows Subsystem for Linux, with a goal of a more responsive and less resource-intensive operating system by year-end. The Taskbar will be repositionable, allowing customization, and the Windows UI framework, WinUI, will be expanded across more system areas. Windows Update will offer users greater control over updates, including the ability to pause them indefinitely. Microsoft aims to improve reliability by strengthening the Windows Insider Program, increasing OS and driver reliability, and enhancing Windows Hello biometric authentication. The focus areas for improvements are Performance, Reliability, and Craft, with specific goals outlined for each category, such as reducing resource usage, enhancing memory efficiency, and improving the search experience.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Ignored no more: Google Messages lets you mention friends to make sure you’re heard

Google has introduced a new feature in its Messages app called "Mentions in Messages," allowing users to tag individuals in group chats with the "@" symbol. This feature alerts specific members to important messages directed at them and will roll out this week. Users can mention multiple participants in a single message and edit the "saved name of the recipient" to maintain privacy. Additionally, Google Messages has introduced built-in live location sharing and a trash folder for deleted conversations, which retains messages for 30 days before permanent deletion.

AppWizard

March 20, 2026

Google Just Made Four Big Upgrades to Android Gaming on Your Windows PC

Google has introduced enhancements to the Google Play gaming experience on Windows PCs, focusing on game discovery and purchasing processes while expanding the availability of paid titles. Key updates include: - An expanded game library with more paid, premium games optimized for PC. - A new PC section in the Play Store Games tab on mobile devices to identify cross-platform compatible titles. - A single purchase option for games that allows access on both mobile and desktop platforms. - Game trials for selected titles, enabling free play up to a certain limit before prompting purchase, with progress carried over if bought. Upcoming games for PC include Moonlight Peaks, Sledding Game, and Low-Budget Repairs. Users can start playing by visiting the Google Play Games web portal, downloading the software, and syncing their Google account. After installation, a list of available games will be displayed, with options to customize controls and visual settings. However, syncing issues may occur, and Game Trials are still in development.