calling Archives

Winsage

April 20, 2026

“The vault is solid, the delivery truck is not” — strong key storage, shaky transfer: why this Windows Recall feature raises new security questions

Windows Recall, an AI-driven tool by Microsoft designed to capture and analyze users' screen content, was initially unveiled in 2024 but faced a delayed rollout due to significant security concerns. It launched in April 2025 with enhanced security features, including isolation within a "VBS Enclave" to protect against third-party access and filtering out sensitive information. However, security researcher Alexander Hagenah identified a flaw where data is transmitted to a less secure process, d AIXHost.exe, allowing tools like TotalRecall Reloaded to access sensitive data without administrative privileges. Despite reporting this vulnerability, Microsoft deemed it "not a vulnerability" and has not planned significant fixes. In response to user backlash, Microsoft is reassessing its AI initiatives, including Windows Recall, while privacy-focused organizations have introduced features to block the tool. Experts are calling for improved security protocols and user opt-out options.

Winsage

April 18, 2026

France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here’s why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026

Dissatisfaction with Windows 11 is widespread, prompting the French government to transition from Windows to Linux for its computer systems, aiming for 'digital sovereignty.' French officials, including Minister David Amiel, emphasize the need to reduce reliance on American tools and regain control over digital infrastructure. The transition is mandated to be completed by fall 2026, with GendBuntu, a variant of Ubuntu, likely being adopted. Over 100,000 PCs currently run GendBuntu, and an additional 2.5 million government workstations will migrate from Windows. Other regions, such as Schleswig-Holstein in Germany and Denmark, are also moving away from Windows. Users have reported issues with Windows 11, leading to a backlash and prompting Microsoft to promise fixes. However, the effectiveness of these improvements remains uncertain, and if unresolved, users may increasingly consider alternatives like Linux or macOS. Microsoft has revamped its Windows Insider program to gather user feedback but lacks clarity on internal quality assurance improvements. The company's ability to regain user trust hinges on addressing ongoing concerns effectively.

AppWizard

April 18, 2026

Stop Killing Games delivers ‘absolutely incredible’ hearing in European Parliament: ‘There was no [parliament member] that wasn’t responding positively’

The Stop Killing Games campaign, founded by Ross Scott, aims to prevent the discontinuation of server-dependent video games once they are no longer financially viable. Recently, Scott and organizer Moritz Katzner presented their case to the European Parliament, receiving positive feedback from attendees, including MEPs and committee chairs. Consultant Daniel Ondruška clarified that the movement seeks reasonable guidelines rather than perpetual support for games. The hearing was seen as a significant step in the legislative process, with all present MEPs showing support for the initiative. Katzner noted plans to establish NGOs in the EU and US for long-term advocacy against game shutdowns and mentioned support for a lawsuit against Ubisoft regarding the discontinuation of The Crew.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

There’s No Saving Windows 11. It’s Time for Windows 12

Windows 11 has faced user frustration due to its cluttered interface and the addition of Copilot AI features, leading to questions about its viability. Recent updates allow users to skip installations during initial setup and offer enhanced taskbar customization. Microsoft is committed to improving Copilot integration, but performance issues and bugs persist. The Recall feature has raised privacy concerns, as it can expose sensitive information, with a researcher demonstrating a way to bypass security measures. The 25H2 update has been plagued by bugs, and users have noted dissatisfaction with ads promoting Microsoft services. The integration of AI has increased RAM usage, affecting system performance. Many users are calling for a focus on developing Windows 12 to restore confidence in Microsoft's operating systems.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Musk’s XChat Is Coming to App Store, Meta, Apple and Finance World Are Trembling

Elon Musk's XChat will launch on the App Store on April 17 as a standalone encrypted messaging application focused on privacy, featuring end-to-end encryption, no advertisements, and a no-tracking policy. Initially part of the X platform, XChat was developed to compete with messaging services like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. The app allows global communication using X accounts without requiring phone numbers, offering cross-platform capabilities unlike iMessage. XChat utilizes a Rust-based architecture with advanced security features and plans to incorporate peer-to-peer transfers and cryptocurrency payments with X Money in 2026, potentially disrupting traditional payment systems. Additionally, it may leverage Grok AI to provide users with various lifestyle services, posing challenges to Google's advertising and search traffic.

Winsage

April 14, 2026

Microsoft Is Already Pulling Back On Its Windows Copilot AI Push

Microsoft has integrated its generative chatbot, Copilot, into various aspects of the Windows operating system, leading to user dissatisfaction due to perceived compromises in the overall experience. Users have expressed frustration with Windows 11's problematic updates and system demands, coining the term "Microslop." Initially, Microsoft resisted this backlash, but as dissatisfaction grew, the company began to shift its strategy, acknowledging the need to address Windows' challenges. This included removing the Copilot button from Notepad in a recent preview build, while still maintaining AI functionality through a different button. Leadership changes at Microsoft suggest a potential realignment of priorities amid profitability challenges in the AI sector. Upcoming enhancements to Windows will restore legacy taskbar features, make Windows Update less intrusive, and improve File Explorer's performance. Additionally, the launch of Apple's budget-friendly MacBook Neo poses a challenge to Microsoft's affordable Windows market, as Apple adopts a more measured approach to AI. Microsoft must ensure that new Windows 11 laptop owners do not face performance issues or an overload of AI features.

BetaBeacon

April 11, 2026

Your Amazon Luna library is about to get a lot more restricted

Amazon Luna has removed individual game purchases and third-party store integrations like GOG, Ubisoft, and EA. Users have until June 10, 2026, to play purchased or linked titles before they vanish from the Luna platform.

AppWizard

April 10, 2026

Tap n’ go: Android’s rumored ‘Tap to Share’ UI might’ve just broken cover

A new report highlights Google's "Tap to Share" feature, which includes a redesigned sharing menu that aligns with Android 16 aesthetics. Users will initiate the transfer process by overlapping their devices, which will emit a glow to indicate successful completion. The user interface features a straightforward sub-menu with three selectable options for sharing. The upcoming Galaxy S26 series will have dual antennas to support this feature. The process may utilize NFC technology, with potential future iterations using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The design of the sub-menu has been refined to match Android 16's visual elements.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

Get Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and 7 other games for under $2 each in the latest Humble Choice line-up

Humble Choice's April lineup features eight games available for under , including the standout title Assassin's Creed Valhalla. The game allows players to experience a Viking saga as Eivor, engaging in raids and exploring an expansive open world set in Norway and England. Richard Scott-Jones rated Valhalla 8/10, calling it potentially the best Assassin's Creed game. Humble Choice operates as a monthly subscription service, allowing subscribers to keep the games indefinitely, and offers discounts on products in the Humble Store. The April selection includes the following titles: - Assassin's Creed Valhalla - Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion - The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria - Until Then - Planet of Lana - Artisan TD - The Procession to Calvary - Buddy Simulator 1984 This lineup is available until May 5 and refreshes on the first Tuesday of each month.

AppWizard

April 8, 2026

Whispers of the Tallgrass, a Creepy First-Person Survival Horror Game, Announced for PC

Whispers of the Tallgrass is a first-person atmospheric survival horror game set in an abandoned industrial wasteland where players must evade a predator while scavenging for resources. The game restricts saving to specific locations, enhancing tension and making every decision significant. Item placements are randomized in each playthrough, providing a unique challenge. Players can discover multiple escape routes with varying risks and rewards, encouraging strategic thinking. The game is set to launch later this year on PC via Steam, and an announcement trailer and first screenshots have been released.