cache Archives

AppWizard

August 20, 2025

Microsoft wants to soothe a big pain for PC gamers: Shaders

Microsoft is introducing "advanced shader delivery" to improve the gaming experience for PC users by standardizing shader packaging. This involves creating a State Object Database (SODB) that collects shader data, which is then paired with a cloud-based compiler to form a Precompiled Shader Database (PSDB). This PSDB will be downloaded with the game, allowing for quick access to shaders without additional compilation. The feature is currently available on the Xbox gaming store, the Xbox PC app, and devices with AMD processors. Microsoft plans to extend this technology to other storefronts and game developers, and existing games will also benefit in the future. The shader cache will refresh automatically after driver updates. Further details are expected to be shared in September.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Microsoft reportedly fixing SSD failures caused by Windows updates

Recent updates to Windows 11, specifically version 24H2, have raised concerns about data corruption and drive failures affecting various SSD and HDD models. The issue was first reported by a Japanese PC enthusiast who noted that drives with Phison NAND controllers were disappearing from the operating system during intensive write operations after installing the KB5063878 security update and the KB5062660 preview update. Some users could restore access to their drives after rebooting, while others could not. Symptoms appeared on SSDs with over 60% usage after approximately 50GB of continuous writing, and similar issues were reported on HDDs. Affected brands include SanDisk Extreme Pro, Corsair Force MP600, Maxio SSD, and KIOXIA, particularly those using Phison PS5012-E12 and InnoGrit controllers. Phison is aware of the situation and is collaborating with Microsoft to find a resolution. Users are advised to avoid transferring large files or multiple large files in quick succession and to process large compressed files in smaller batches.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Updated Windows 11 and your SSD disappeared? You’re not alone

On August 12, 2025, Microsoft released the Windows 11 version 24H2 security update, KB5063878, to address delays in signing into new devices caused by certain preinstalled packages. However, some users faced installation errors (code Ox80240069) when deploying the update via Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), which has since been resolved. A significant issue reported by user @Necoru_cat indicated that the update caused SSDs and HDDs to disappear from the operating system and led to severe data loss for some users. Testing revealed that drives became inaccessible when large amounts of data were written, particularly when file sizes exceeded 50GB and drives were over 60% full. A system reboot could restore functionality temporarily, but the issue could recur under similar conditions. Testing involved 21 SSDs from various manufacturers, with the WD Blue SA510 being the only drive rendered completely unrecoverable. Phison acknowledged the potential impact of the updates on storage devices and is reviewing affected controllers. Additional users reported similar problems with other SSDs, including those using the Phison PS5012-E12 controller and various models from Corsair, KIOXIA, and SanDisk. Users are advised to avoid large file transfers and to back up their data regularly.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

Is A Nasty Mysterious Windows Update Bug Really Bricking These SSDs?

The KB5063878 Windows 11 security update may cause significant data corruption on SSDs, with some users unable to boot their operating systems. One user, @Necoru_cat, reported that their system became unresponsive and data on the SSD was unrecoverable after a crash during a game update, suspecting the issue is linked to sequential file transfers over 50 GB. Testing on 22 SSDs revealed that 12 experienced problems, categorized as requiring a restart or major data loss. The tests were conducted on a specific system setup, raising questions about whether the issue is system-specific. There is speculation about overheating SSDs contributing to the problem, but the diversity of SSDs tested complicates this theory.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows Update ‘Failure’—Do Not Save These Files

Microsoft's recent Windows 11 update has been linked to multiple SSD failures, particularly during large data writes, causing drives to become non-functional. Users have reported that affected drives "disappear from the OS," making SMART data unreadable, and leading to potential file corruption due to a suspected malfunction in the drive cache. SSDs with over 60% usage may be particularly susceptible after about 50GB of continuous writing, with issues also observed in some HDDs. SSDs utilizing Phison NAND controllers, especially DRAM-less models, are noted to be more prone to these problems. The affected SSDs include Corsair Force MP600, Phison PS5012-E12 controller-equipped SSD, KIOXIA EXCERIA PLUS G4, Fikwot FN955, and SanDisk Extreme PRO M.2 NVMe 3D SSD. The root cause may be a storage driver or kernel-level regression introduced with the update, which mishandles long sequential writes. Users are advised to avoid executing long sequential write operations until Microsoft provides official guidance.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

Android phone feeling slow? I changed these 4 settings to revitalize the whole system

Many consumers keep their Android phones for longer periods, and there are strategies to enhance performance without complex modifications. 1. Uninstall unused apps by navigating to Settings > Storage > Apps or long-pressing the app icon. 2. Clear storage by transferring photos to external drives or cloud storage, and clearing app cache via Settings > Storage > App > Clear Cache. 3. Keep the phone updated by checking for updates in Settings > General > System Update and updating apps in the Google Play Store. 4. Adjust animation speed by enabling Developer options through Settings > About phone > Software information > Build number (tap seven times) and modifying the Window animation scale to 0.5x in the Drawing section. Additionally, minimize Transition animation scale and Animator duration scale for improved performance.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

You should deep clean your Windows PC every year to keep it running smoothly — here’s how I do it

Maintaining a computer's performance requires regular software upkeep in addition to physical care. An annual deep clean is advisable, with more frequent maintenance being beneficial. 1. Uninstall unused applications using the built-in Settings app or a tool like BCUninstaller, which can bulk uninstall and identify leftover files. 2. Run debloat scripts, such as Chris Titus Tech's Windows Utility, to remove bloatware and manage privacy settings. 3. Disable unnecessary startup apps through the Task Manager to optimize boot times. 4. Check for driver updates manually under Advanced options > Optional updates, and visit manufacturer websites for graphics drivers. 5. Run a malware scan using MalwareBytes for periodic checks. 6. Delete temporary files via System > Storage > Temporary files in the Settings app, and manage cached files in web browsers.

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

Does your Google Messages app keep crashing? This could be the reason why

The latest beta version of the Google Messages app (version 2025080500RC00) crashes upon opening for some users, affecting various Android devices including Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy, and is not linked to any specific service provider. Users can still respond to incoming messages via notifications as a temporary workaround. Traditional fixes like restarting the device or clearing the app's cache have not worked for many, though some users have successfully resolved the issue by uninstalling and reinstalling the beta update. There are ongoing efforts to get a comment from Google regarding a timeline for a resolution.

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

Is Google Messages crashing for you? You’re not alone.

Some users of Google Messages are experiencing crashes when opening the app, as reported on Reddit. They can only respond to messages via notifications or by accessing their contacts. The issue affects various devices, including Google Pixel, Samsung, and Motorola, across multiple carriers like Fido, Google Fi, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Users have tried installing and uninstalling beta versions, clearing the app's cache, and uninstalling the latest update, with mixed results. Some found success by uninstalling and reinstalling the latest update. Google has been contacted for clarification and a potential fix timeline.

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

Google Messages crashing for some Android users

A segment of Google Messages users is experiencing crashes shortly after launching the app, particularly on devices running Android 16 and 16 QPR1, especially Pixel and Samsung phones. This issue began after the release of the latest beta version (2025080500RC00). Affected users can still access conversations through notifications or the chat head feature. Basic troubleshooting methods have not resolved the issue, but some users have successfully uninstalled updates and then reinstalled them, fixing the crashing while keeping their message history intact.