assistant Archives

Winsage

December 4, 2025

Announcing the Microsoft Store Awards 2025 winners

The Microsoft Store Awards recognized exceptional applications that enhance user experiences within the Windows ecosystem. AI Assistants category: - Winner: Perplexity by Perplexity AI - Features native voice dictation, multi-modal AI search, and deep desktop integration for rapid research. - Winner: ChatGPT by OpenAI - Provides instant answers, direct image and file uploads, and enterprise-level privacy controls. Business category: - Winner: Invoice Maker & Estimate Creator by Moon Technolabs Pvt. Ltd. - Streamlines finance tasks with customizable templates and real-time payment tracking. Computer-Using Agents (CUA) category: - Winner: Manus by Manus AI - Automates complex tasks within a secure sandbox and allows users to guide ongoing actions. Creativity category: - Winner: n-Track Studio by n-Track S.r.I. - Transforms devices into recording studios with support for unlimited tracks and advanced effects. Developer Tools category: - Winner: ngrok by ngrok - Facilitates secure tunneling and remote access with automatic updates and compatibility with Windows Defender. Education category: - Winner: Scratch 3 by Scratch Foundation - Empowers students in computational thinking through engaging projects and block coding. Game category: - Winner: Castle Craft by Clever Apps Pte Ltd - Offers an immersive gaming experience with dynamic resource merging and family-friendly design. Music category: - Winner: Moises Live by Moises Systems, Inc - Leverages real-time AI audio separation technology for remixing and practice. Productivity category: - Winner: Notion by Notion Labs Inc - Consolidates tasks and notes into a searchable workspace with automation features. Each winner will receive a Store Award Winner badge in the Microsoft Store.

Winsage

December 2, 2025

Microsoft can’t fix Windows 11 because it won’t stop breaking it

Windows 11 was launched in October 2021 but has faced significant challenges, including stringent hardware requirements that alienated many users, persistent bugs, and stagnant adoption rates. Key components of the Windows 11 interface, such as the Start Menu, Taskbar, File Explorer, and Settings app, have been unreliable, with major failures following updates due to a problematic XAML software component. Microsoft acknowledged these issues, which have left users dealing with non-functional menus and taskbars. The fragility of Windows 11 is partly attributed to the integration of AI-generated code, which raises concerns about software quality. The operating system has also introduced ads, leading to user resentment and a decline in trust. Many users continue to prefer Windows 10, which still powers about 1 billion PCs, as adoption rates for Windows 11 lag behind those of Windows 10 at a similar stage. Microsoft faces a dilemma on whether to focus on AI features or restore core functionality to regain user confidence.

Winsage

December 1, 2025

Get a Lifetime of Professional-Grade Windows Features for Just $10

In 2024, the average cost of a data breach for small businesses reached .98 million, according to IBM. Windows 11 Pro is available for .97 and includes features such as BitLocker device encryption, Azure AD integration, Windows Sandbox, Hyper-V for virtual machines, and Copilot AI assistant for productivity. It offers virtual desktops, snap layouts for window organization, Smart App Control for blocking harmful applications, TPM 2.0 for hardware-based encryption, and biometric login for security. Additionally, it enhances graphics performance with DirectX 12.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

This Gemini for Home hack lets you hear the new assistant early, with a catch

Reddit users have discovered a method to access the new Gemini voices for Google Home devices before the official rollout by manually initiating the onboarding process. This workaround allows users to change their voice settings while still using Google Assistant. The upgrade introduces ten new voice options and is part of an early access program being rolled out on a per-home basis. Users can enter a specific URL to modify voice settings on their Home and Nest devices, but the full suite of Gemini features will not be accessible through this method. The longevity of this hack is uncertain, as it is unclear if Google will address it.

Winsage

November 30, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 heralds the dawn of Intelligent Computing

Windows 11 Version 25H2 was released on November 30, 2025, marking a shift from traditional operating system upgrades to a model where Windows is treated as a living service that evolves through feature updates. This version integrates artificial intelligence, notably through the Copilot tool, enhancing user interaction by providing intelligent assistance. The update also improves performance, reliability, and security, addressing increasing cyber threats with fortified default settings and better encryption. Design refinements enhance user experience and accessibility, while energy efficiency optimizations contribute to sustainability. The retirement of Windows 10 in October 2025 emphasizes the importance of Windows 11 as the future platform, with no immediate plans for a Windows 12 release.

AppWizard

November 30, 2025

Grab a free Steam key for AILA, the new survival horror FPS that’s a perfect warm-up for Resident Evil Requiem

Fireshine Games has released a new horror game titled AILA, a "psy-tech horror adventure" where players assume the role of a game tester accompanied by an AI assistant. The game features nightmarish scenarios, puzzles, and resource management, drawing inspiration from titles like Resident Evil and Amnesia. To celebrate the launch, Fireshine Games is giving away ten Steam keys until December 18, with winners notified via email. AILA is currently available on Steam at a 20% discount, priced at .99 / £19.99 until December 9.

AppWizard

November 30, 2025

Signal’s president warns AI agents are an existential threat to secure messaging apps

Meredith Whittaker, president of Signal, expresses strong concerns about the rise of AI agents, describing them as an “existential threat” to secure messaging platforms and app developers. AI agents require access to sensitive information, creating new vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals. Whittaker points out the risk of prompt injection attacks, which can manipulate AI to execute harmful actions, leading to data breaches. She argues that unrestricted access to user communications by AI agents poses a significant risk to privacy and security, undermining the foundational security of the internet. Whittaker criticizes the reckless implementation of AI by Big Tech companies, suggesting it compromises cybersecurity in favor of rapid deployment and financial pressures.

Winsage

November 30, 2025

Microsoft Issues Warning To Windows 11 Users – This AI Feature Can Install Viruses

Microsoft is transitioning to Windows 11 with the introduction of an "agentic OS," featuring experimental components called Agent Workspace, currently available to select Windows Insiders. These agentic features will be disabled by default due to potential security risks, including cross-prompt injection (XPIA) that could allow unauthorized access to user files. When activated, agent accounts can access the user profile directory, which raises concerns about data exfiltration and malware installation. The AI applications, including Copilot, will have visibility into the entire display, prompting users to consider privacy implications. Agent workspaces are designed to provide scoped authorization and runtime isolation, allowing users to manage access to files while using their devices. However, initial user reactions have been mixed, with ongoing concerns about security and functionality.

Winsage

November 29, 2025

Make your PC feel new again with Windows 11 Pro for $10

Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, making the upgrade to Windows 11 Pro essential for security updates and performance enhancements. The upgrade is currently priced at .97, down from 9. Windows 11 Pro offers a streamlined user experience with features like Snap Layouts and enhanced virtual desktops for multitasking. It includes advanced security features such as TPM 2.0, biometric login, Smart App Control, and BitLocker encryption. The operating system is optimized for modern hardware, improving performance and gaming experiences through DirectX 12 Ultimate. It also features an AI-powered assistant, Copilot, for productivity enhancements. The upgrade comes with a lifetime license.

Winsage

November 28, 2025

Upgrade Your PC’s Performance With Windows 11 Pro for $10

Microsoft has ceased support for Windows 10, prompting users to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, which is currently available for .97, reduced from the standard retail price of 9. Windows 11 Pro enhances performance and security, offering a boost in speed and efficiency, particularly on older machines, with improved multitasking and reduced start-up times. It features advanced security measures, including hardware-level safeguards and Smart App Control, to protect against malicious software. The upgrade includes Copilot, an AI assistant that aids in various tasks, and the digital license remains active for life once redeemed.