audio playback Archives

Winsage

May 5, 2025

Microsoft silently fixes Start menu bug affecting Windows 10 PCs

Microsoft has resolved a problem that disrupted the functionality of Start Menu jump lists on Windows 10, version 22H2. The issue originated from a Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) initiated in March 2025, which aimed to enhance account control but led to complications. Microsoft paused the rollout in late April 2025 after receiving user feedback about the inability to view jump lists for apps. The problematic rollout was halted on April 25, 2025, preventing new devices from encountering the glitch. The issue mainly affected users of Windows 10 Home and Pro editions. Affected users are advised to ensure their devices are connected to the internet and to restart their systems to apply the fix.

Winsage

April 30, 2025

Microsoft engineer reveals more details about Janet Jackson song that used to mysteriously crash Windows XP PCs

A bug affecting Windows XP caused crashes when playing Janet Jackson's "Rhythm Nation" on certain systems, linked to a natural resonant frequency that interfered with 5400rpm hard drives. Microsoft and an OEM developed a custom audio filter to eliminate the problematic frequency, which remained in place until Windows 7 introduced new rules allowing users to disable audio filters. This posed a risk of hardware damage for those unaware of the bug. The OEM received an exemption from the new rule to keep the audio filter active, protecting both their reputation and Microsoft's. The identity of the OEM remains undisclosed, referred to as "Fabrikam" in documentation.

Winsage

February 8, 2025

More Windows 11 patch woes, this time with mouse pointers acting up

Last week, the optional Windows 11 update KB5050094 was released to enhance USB audio playback and improve Auto HDR for gaming. However, users reported issues with the mouse cursor getting stuck in a loading animation every thirty seconds, and the previously resolved "disappearing cursor" issue has returned, affecting users in light theme mode. Additionally, File Explorer has become unresponsive, and users have faced difficulties with dialog windows and decreased performance during login. Some users experienced increased CPU, GPU, and RAM utilization while idle, leading to higher temperatures. It is advised to roll back the update if installed or to avoid it until the next comprehensive update scheduled for Patch Tuesday.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

NewPipe Is an Ad-Free, Privacy-Respecting YouTube App for Android

YouTube's Android app is criticized for its cluttered interface, sluggish performance, and excessive ads, while also raising privacy concerns due to tracking user activity. NewPipe is a free, open-source alternative that prioritizes user privacy and removes ads. It allows background audio playback, picture-in-picture mode, and offline video downloads without requiring a YouTube Premium subscription. However, users cannot sign in with a Google account, limiting access to existing subscriptions and personalized recommendations. NewPipe enables manual subscription additions, bookmarking, and supports exporting/importing subscriptions and playlists. It is not available on the Google Play Store, requiring users to download the .apk file or use F-Droid for installation.

Tech Optimizer

February 2, 2025

Microsoft thinks it could stop this dangerous scam forever

Microsoft has launched a new ‘Scareware blocker’ feature for Edge web browsers on Windows PCs, designed to enhance user protection against tech support scams. This machine learning threat detection software identifies signs of scareware in real-time and aims to reduce the prevalence of such scams, which cost victims millions annually according to the FBI. The technology analyzes new websites and uses a SmartScreen feature for global protection, processing information locally without uploading images to the cloud. When a potential threat is detected, Edge exits full-screen mode, stops aggressive audio playback, and alerts the user. Users can report malicious sites or inaccuracies to improve the model. The feature is available to all Edge users upon updating their browser.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

6 open-source alternatives to Windows Media Player that are probably better than it

Windows 11 introduces a revamped media player called Windows Media Player, which has a modern interface but may lack certain functionalities, leading users to seek alternatives. Audacious is a straightforward audio library manager with a minimalist design that allows users to import music collections and create playlists, supporting internet streams. MPV is a lightweight video player with a minimalistic interface that supports a wide range of formats and allows drag-and-drop playback, primarily functioning through command-line. SMPlayer provides a user-friendly graphical interface on top of MPV, enhancing usability with features like dual subtitle support and internet streaming, while remaining compatible with various formats and codecs. Clementine offers advanced music management with an intuitive interface that organizes tracks and generates playlists based on listening habits, integrating with internet services for streaming music and radio. MPC-HC is a lightweight media player known for extensive codec support, offering features like subtitle support, playback position saving, and content streaming from platforms like YouTube. VLC Media Player is renowned for its versatility, supporting virtually every audio and video format, including DVD playback, and can search for subtitles online, making it a top choice for media playback across platforms.

Winsage

November 27, 2024

Asus, Dell confirm new issues in Windows 11 24H2 update, including shutdown bug

Windows 11 24H2 has compatibility issues affecting Dell and Asus PCs, particularly with shutdown and sleep functions when Dell Encryption v11.10 is installed. Dell confirmed that hibernation and shutdown features fail to operate correctly after the update. Versions v11.9 and earlier of Dell Encryption are incompatible with the update. Dell is addressing the issue by rolling out an updated version of Dell Encryption. Additionally, the update removes Dolby audio decoders, disrupting audio playback on some devices. Microsoft confirmed that Dolby Audio decoders will no longer be preinstalled in Windows starting with the 24H2 update. Asus advises users to manually install Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus if necessary. Users must verify Dolby audio support on their devices and download specific audio drivers if needed.

AppWizard

November 26, 2024

The Wear OS 5.1 preview is now available — and it’s based on Android 15

Google has released the first developer preview of Wear OS 5.1, based on Android 15, for testing in the Android Studio emulator. Key features include audio playback through smartwatch speakers and the new Credential Manager API. The build number for this preview is AP4A.241205.004.F1. Known issues include difficulties in adding accounts during setup, notifications not opening corresponding apps until the screen is scrolled, and potential failures in initiating exercise sessions with Wear Health Services. The audio feature allows users to listen to music or podcasts from the smartwatch's speaker, while the Credential Manager API supports password management and synchronization across devices.

AppWizard

October 19, 2024

Chrome for Android can now read you articles while you use other apps

Google has updated the "Listen to this page" feature in its Chrome browser for Android, adding background playback support in version 130. This allows users to have web pages read aloud while the phone's screen is off or when using other applications. The media player will show in the notifications area with basic controls, while advanced options remain accessible through the playback widget in the app. Users can access this feature via the three-dot menu and add a shortcut next to the address bar in Chrome settings.

AppWizard

October 18, 2024

‘Listen to this page’ in Chrome for Android gets background playback

Google has updated Chrome's "Listen to this page" feature with support for background playback, allowing users to listen to audio content while using other applications. This feature was introduced in Chrome 130, enabling users to exit the browser without interrupting playback. The media player now appears in notifications, offering controls for rewinding, skipping audio, and a scrubber timeline. Users can customize playback speed, choose from ten voices, and enable features like "Highlight text & auto scroll." A new play button can be added for easier access. The rollout of Chrome 130 for Android is currently underway.