Chrome Archives

Winsage

March 22, 2026

Microsoft says it’ll make Windows 11 a calmer OS with fewer upsells or ads, as it tries to win back users

Microsoft has confirmed plans to reduce the presence of "upsells" in Windows 11 to enhance user experience. This announcement was made on March 20, coinciding with a significant update focused on performance and quality-of-life improvements. The update includes a faster File Explorer, a transition of the Start menu to WinUI 3, and an option to pause Windows updates indefinitely. There will also be a reduction in the use of Copilot across applications like Notepad. Microsoft is reconsidering the necessity of a Microsoft account during the Out-Of-Box Experience (OOBE) and aims to decrease built-in promotions within Windows 11. Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft engineering leader, acknowledged user frustrations and stated the goal is to create “a calmer and more chill OS with fewer upsells.” Users have expressed dissatisfaction with aggressive marketing tactics, including ads for Microsoft services during the setup process and full-screen alerts encouraging the switch to Edge. While some ads can be disabled, many users feel that they should not encounter advertisements after purchasing the operating system or devices.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

Microsoft is ending the Windows Update nightmare — and letting you pause them indefinitely

Microsoft is making changes to its Windows operating system to restore user confidence by giving users more control over automatic updates. Users will soon be able to pause updates as needed, a shift from the previous mandatory update model that often caused disruptions. Microsoft assures that users will only need to reboot their systems once a month for updates, with options for quicker installations for those wanting the latest features. The company is also improving overall system performance, responsiveness, and stability, including faster application launches and a streamlined setup process for new devices. Users will have the option to use gamepad controls for PIN creation during setup. Microsoft is addressing user feedback to enhance the Windows experience, though it remains to be seen if they will fully move away from promoting their own products over competitors.

AppWizard

March 17, 2026

Personal Intelligence for the masses: Google rolls it out in AI Mode and more across the U.S.

Google has expanded its Personal Intelligence feature to all free-tier users in the U.S., which includes AI Mode, the Gemini app, and Gemini in Chrome. This feature integrates with connected apps like Gmail and Google Photos to provide tailored assistance. Initially launched for AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers, it enhances user experience by retrieving relevant information about past purchases or family vacations. Users maintain control over app connections and can revoke permissions at any time. The feature aims to assist with planning trips and shopping experiences by accessing recent purchases.

AppWizard

March 17, 2026

Google is making Chrome on Android tablets and foldables feel more like desktop with the new update

Google Chrome on Android has introduced a bookmarks bar for tablets and foldables in version 146, allowing quicker access to saved sites and replicating a desktop browsing experience. The bookmarks bar displays site names and icons and can be enabled in the Chrome app settings. Users have reported successful activation of this feature after updating the app, enhancing usability by providing direct access to frequently visited websites without navigating through a menu.

AppWizard

March 15, 2026

Google Activates Desktop Windowing On Android Tablets

Google has introduced a desktop windowing mode as the default on tablets running the latest Android builds, starting with the Pixel Tablet. This feature includes freeform windows, a persistent taskbar, and the ability to create and switch between multiple desktops. Users can manipulate apps by floating, resizing, snapping to edges, and minimizing or maximizing them, similar to traditional PC or Mac interfaces. The taskbar displays all running apps across desktops, allowing for quick app switching. Users can snap two apps side by side and resize them simultaneously. Desktop windowing allows for rapid app transitions, enhancing efficiency when managing multiple applications. However, it consumes vertical space on the display, making full-screen and split-screen views more efficient for tasks requiring fewer apps. The feature builds on Android 12L's enhancements for large screens and aims to improve productivity on tablets. Despite its advantages, there are some limitations, such as unclear app movement between desktops and limited keyboard shortcuts. Users can mix modes, using desktops for multi-app workflows while reverting to full-screen or split-screen views when needed. This update signifies a shift in how users interact with tablets, making them more functional for productivity tasks.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

Microsoft adds internet speed test tool to taskbar in Windows 11, but it’s no different from a desktop shortcut

Microsoft has begun rolling out its March 2026 update for Windows 11, which includes security enhancements and a new feature that allows users to test internet speed. This feature is accessible via a “Perform speed test” option when right-clicking the WiFi or Ethernet icon in the taskbar. Selecting this option directs users to their default web browser, opening a speed test page on Bing with the search query “internet speed test.” The feature serves as a shortcut to a webpage rather than a fully integrated application. It respects the system's default browser setting, allowing users to open the speed test in their preferred browser. The speed test utilizes technology from Ookla, moving away from Microsoft's previous Azure-based tool for better accuracy and reliability.

Winsage

March 6, 2026

Microsoft Reveals ClickFix Campaign Using Windows Terminal to Deploy Lumma Stealer

Microsoft revealed a social engineering campaign named ClickFix that exploits the Windows Terminal application to deploy Lumma Stealer malware. Detected in February 2026, this campaign instructs users to access Windows Terminal using the Windows + X → I shortcut, enhancing its perceived legitimacy. Attackers evade detection by manipulating users into executing harmful commands through deceptive prompts. The attack chain involves pasting a hex-encoded command into Windows Terminal, which opens additional Terminal and PowerShell instances, leading to a PowerShell process that decodes a script. This process downloads a ZIP payload containing a renamed 7-Zip binary, which extracts files and initiates a multi-stage attack, including retrieving payloads, establishing persistence, configuring Microsoft Defender exclusions, exfiltrating data, and deploying Lumma Stealer by injecting it into "chrome.exe" and "msedge.exe." Lumma Stealer targets browser artifacts to harvest credentials. A secondary attack pathway involves downloading a batch script that writes a Visual Basic Script to the Temp folder and connects to Crypto Blockchain RPC endpoints, also using QueueUserAPC() for code injection into browsers to extract data.

Tech Optimizer

February 26, 2026

Avast Antivirus Just Got Smarter: Is It Finally Worth Your Money?

Avast Antivirus has introduced advanced AI tools, enhanced browser protection, and new privacy features in the U.S. market. It offers real-time malware protection, phishing shields, and Wi-Fi scanning. Avast's product lineup includes a free version, a premium security plan, and Avast One, catering to different user needs. Independent lab tests show Avast ranks highly in malware blocking, competing with brands like Bitdefender and Kaspersky. However, users should be cautious of upselling practices and data collection concerns. The free version provides strong protection, while paid plans offer additional features like VPN and advanced ransomware protection. Avast is accessible on various platforms, and pricing fluctuates due to promotions. Users are advised to assess their needs and be mindful of renewal rates before subscribing.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

Firefox is about to drop support for older Windows versions – says if you can’t upgrade, then switch to Linux

Firefox version 115 will be the last to support Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. Users of these operating systems must upgrade to Windows 10 or newer to continue receiving updates after February 2026. Mozilla has decided to discontinue support for these older versions of Windows due to the cessation of security updates from Microsoft since January 2023 and the associated costs and risks. Other major browsers have also stopped supporting these outdated systems. Users unable to upgrade can consider switching to a Linux-based operating system, which often comes with Firefox pre-installed. Firefox is favored in the Linux community for its open-source nature and efficient memory usage compared to browsers based on Google's Chromium codebase.

AppWizard

February 23, 2026

Fanatical – are its cheap Steam keys legit?

Fanatical is a UK-based online retailer that offers a wide selection of Steam game keys at competitive prices, often lower than those on Steam. It is safe to purchase from Fanatical, as it operates reliably and directly with publishers and developers, avoiding third-party sellers. Fanatical provides bundles, including customizable options and 'Mystery Bundles' with random Steam keys at attractive prices. The retailer frequently matches Steam sales and offers deeper discounts through time-sensitive Star Deals. Fanatical operates on a smaller profit margin, allowing it to undercut Steam's prices by purchasing keys at lower rates. Redeeming keys from Fanatical on Steam is straightforward, allowing users to enjoy their games seamlessly.