application updates Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 26, 2025

How to disable the PC webcam and protect it from unauthorized access

The webcam is a crucial tool for remote communication but poses privacy risks, particularly through a threat known as CamFecting, where unauthorized access can occur via malware, malicious websites, or system vulnerabilities. Preventive measures include using antivirus software, disabling the webcam when not in use, and physically covering the camera with privacy caps or tape. Signs of unauthorized access include unexpected illumination of the webcam light, unusual camera behavior, unknown files on the system, abnormal data consumption, and decreased battery life. To deactivate the webcam, users can adjust settings in major browsers and operating systems. Maintaining digital hygiene, such as regularly updating software, using security systems like firewalls and VPNs, and being cautious of phishing attempts, is essential to minimize risks.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Microsoft starts lifting Windows 11 24H2 safeguard hold

Microsoft has begun lifting a compatibility hold on wallpaper customization applications for Windows 11, which had been in place for over six months since the release of Windows 11 24H2. The hold affected multiple applications, causing issues such as incorrect wallpaper display and disappearing icons. Microsoft confirmed that the hold is being removed incrementally as developers update their applications, although the reasons for the incompatibility remain unclear. Users may receive prompts to uninstall their wallpaper applications during the update process, and they are encouraged to update these applications for better compatibility. Some applications, like Wallpaper Engine, have already released updates to enhance compatibility with Windows 11 24H2. The resolution of compatibility issues will depend on the timing of application updates from developers.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Windows 11 24H2: Update blocker due to wallpaper apps solved

Microsoft has addressed compatibility issues with wallpaper customization software in the Windows 11 24H2 update, lifting the update blockade on systems with known incompatibilities. Users experienced challenges such as wallpapers failing to display, disappearing desktop icons, loss of desktop preview functionality, problems with virtual desktops, and error messages from applications. The Safeguard ID for this blockade is 52754008, manageable through Windows Update for Business. Users may need to uninstall or update affected wallpaper apps to install version 24H2. The resolution timing will vary based on application updates. Additionally, Microsoft recently encountered similar issues with Senseshield protection software, leading to a reset of the update blockade for system stability.

Winsage

March 25, 2025

Two of my least favorite things about the Microsoft Store are about to get fixed

Microsoft's development team has implemented over 150 client-side changes to the Microsoft Store based on user feedback. Notable improvements include: - A dedicated page for browsing themes. - Downloads now appear separately from the My Library section. - Gamers can select specific game components before installation. - A revamped header for product pages. - Enhanced application updates for unpackaged applications. - New server modules and a spotlight feature for home pages. - An exclusive AI Hub for Copilot+ PCs. Rudy Huyn, the principal lead architect, emphasizes the team's commitment to user feedback and ongoing improvements to the Microsoft Store experience.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Windows 11 will make it easier to change your webcam resolution

Recent iterations of Windows 11 allow users to personalize webcam settings through Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Cameras, enabling adjustments for brightness, contrast, and sharpness. Upcoming updates will expand these customization options. A hidden feature in the latest Windows 11 Canary builds (ID 52142480) enables users to modify webcam image resolution, allowing for automatic or manual selection of preferred resolution and frame rate. This feature can be enabled on Windows 11 build 27744 or newer using the ViVeTool app. Additionally, the Canary builds include an advanced camera option for selecting specific camera resolutions and improvements in File Explorer, Task Manager, and the taskbar, along with updates to the Microsoft Store for easier Win32 application updates.

Winsage

November 22, 2024

Microsoft fixes update error in Windows 10 22H2

Microsoft has released a non-security update, KB5046714, which resolves an issue that prevented Windows 10 users from updating applications through the Microsoft Store. This problem was linked to the release of WinAppSDK version 1.6.2 on November 12, which was subsequently retracted. The update KB5046714 specifically addresses the update issues for Windows 10 22H2. Additionally, Windows 11 users received two interim updates: KB5046740 for Windows 11 24H2 and KB5046732 for Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2.

Tech Optimizer

October 26, 2024

Avira Internet Security

Offering antivirus or security suite protection for free can enhance brand awareness and goodwill among consumers, but financial sustainability is at risk without a significant number of users upgrading to paid versions. Avira Internet Security's annual fee for a single installation is .99, with a three-license subscription costing .99, and a five-license option priced at .99, making it the highest rate for an entry-level security suite. The interface of Avira Internet Security is similar to Avira Free Security, and both versions provide basic features, including real-time protection and a file shredder. Avira achieved an aggregate score of 9.7 in antivirus testing but detected 97% of malware samples. Its Browser Safety extension blocked 98% of harmful URLs, while Web protection achieved 97% effectiveness. Avira's ransomware protection likely functions well, but its efficacy could not be definitively proven. The Software Updater Pro feature allows users to manage application updates, but it requires manual intervention. Avira Password Manager offers unlimited password syncing across devices in its free version, while the Pro edition provides a security status report. The simple firewall included in Avira Internet Security offers basic network protection and is easy to configure. Overall, most valuable features are available in the free edition, and Bitdefender Internet Security is recommended as a superior alternative.

Winsage

October 1, 2024

Windows 11 24H2, the biggest update in two years, starts rolling out today

Microsoft has begun the rollout of the Windows 11 2024 Update (24H2), targeting users on versions 22H2 or 23H2 who opted for quicker access to new feature updates. The update introduces new features such as the Energy Saver, support for Wi-Fi 7 and 80Gbps USB4 Version 2.0 ports, text labels for common actions in the right-click context menu, and refinements in Quick Settings panels. For PCs meeting the Copilot+ program requirements (16GB RAM, 256GB storage, NPU with 40 trillion operations per second), advanced features like an enhanced Recall feature, improved Windows Search, "super resolution" for the Photos app, and generative fill and erase in Paint will be available. The 24H2 update is the most significant change to Windows 11 since the 22H2 update and retains the existing branding despite speculation about a "Windows 12." The update includes technical improvements to the compiler, kernel, and scheduler, enhancing performance and compatibility, particularly for the Arm-to-x86 app translation layer called "Prism." The official system requirements remain unchanged, but the criteria for unsupported installations have tightened, now requiring 64-bit PCs that support the SSE 4.2 instruction set and the POPCNT instruction, which may render some older CPUs incompatible.

AppWizard

August 30, 2024

Here is why App Updates from Google Play may feel like they install faster now – gHacks Tech News

- The download limit for application updates on the Google Play Store has increased from one to three. - Users can now download updates for up to three applications simultaneously. - The limit for new application installations has also been raised from two to three. - This change aims to improve the experience for Android users who frequently update their applications. - The modification was observed on the Google Play platform, but it is unclear if it is a server-side update or a gradual rollout. - The simultaneous download limit applies to both new app installations and updates for existing applications. - The effectiveness of the change may depend on individual internet connection speeds.