cloud-based service Archives

AppWizard

January 21, 2026

Android 16 Beta Still Crashing Apps Despite Google’s Claims of Fixing It

Google released the Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 update for Pixel 6 and newer models, aiming to fix issues, including crashes of Microsoft applications. Despite the update, many users still report crashes, especially with work-related apps like Microsoft Teams. Some users experience crashes only on their work profiles, while others face issues regardless of the profile. A few users have reported no problems at all with Microsoft applications on the latest beta. Google specifically mentioned fixing issues related to Microsoft Intune, but regular users continue to face problems. One user found a workaround by enabling Android System WebView, which was previously disabled. There has been little activity on the Issue Tracker regarding these issues, and users may consider reverting to the stable version of Android 16 without losing data.

Winsage

October 3, 2025

Transforming security and compliance at Microsoft with Windows Hotpatch

Security updates are crucial for system integrity, but traditionally require a reboot, causing productivity interruptions. Microsoft has introduced Windows Hotpatch, which allows critical updates to be applied without rebooting, enhancing compliance and user satisfaction. Hotpatch modifies in-memory code while the system is operational, leading to immediate updates without downtime. It is designed for efficiency with small payloads that minimize performance impact. Hotpatch updates undergo the same validation as standard updates and can address zero-day vulnerabilities without requiring a reboot. This technology is available for Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows Server 2022/2025 Azure Edition, with appropriate licensing. Hotpatch has evolved from internal server capabilities to support client machines and integrates with Autopatch, automating the update process for enterprise environments. Microsoft Digital plans to scale Hotpatch to 450,000 devices within four months, achieving high compliance rates quickly—81% within 24 hours and 90% within five days, compared to previous timelines of up to nine months. Since its general availability in April, Hotpatch has been deployed to over 4 million devices globally, enhancing user experience by making updates seamless and unobtrusive. Plans for further expansion and improvements in compliance visibility and reporting are underway.

Winsage

September 10, 2025

5 ways to run Windows apps on MacOS – and 2 are free

VirtualBox is a free virtual machine manager that allows users to run Windows as a guest OS on MacOS. Kegworks is a free implementation of Wine for MacOS, optimized for versions 10.15.4 and later, supporting Windows applications and games. CrossOver is a paid solution that simplifies running Windows applications on MacOS, offering a free trial and user-friendly documentation. Parallels is a hypervisor that enables seamless virtualization of Windows and Linux on MacOS, available for a subscription with a free trial. Windows 365 Cloud PC is a cloud-based service that provides virtual Windows PCs, requiring a stable internet connection, with plans starting at a monthly fee.

Winsage

August 27, 2025

Microsoft Azure Update Manager Streamlines Windows Updates for Enterprises

Microsoft is introducing a new feature to simplify the installation of Windows upgrades, utilizing Azure Update Manager to manage updates across hybrid environments without the need for on-premises servers or complex scripting. This update mechanism includes intelligent scheduling and rollback options, enhancing efficiency and reducing the risk of deployment failures. The enhancement is significant for enterprise security, ensuring timely application of critical upgrades to address cyber threats. It may also facilitate smoother transitions to newer Windows versions for businesses using older systems. Reactions from the IT community are positive, with expectations that similar efficiencies could extend to consumer updates in the future.

AppWizard

November 28, 2024

5 Best Android Emulators for Mac: Run Android Apps and Games Seamlessly

Android emulators for Mac allow users to experience the Android environment, bridging the gap for Mac users who face limitations with mobile gaming and Android-exclusive applications. The top Android emulators for Mac include: 1. BlueStacks: Widely used, supports both Intel and M-series Macs, free, features native gamepad support and impressive FPS capabilities. Currently available as BlueStacks 4, with BlueStacks 5 anticipated. 2. NoxPlayer: Lightweight design, operates on Android 9, supports Intel Macs only, free, features script recording and gamepad support, but does not support M1 or later chips. 3. Genymotion: Primarily for developers, supports both Intel and M-series Macs, offers cloud-based or desktop application options, free and paid versions, features ADB access and sensor simulation. 4. MuMuPlayer Pro: Supports M-series Macs only, paid with a 7-day trial, operates on Android 12, allows multiple instances for gameplay, but lacks extensive customization options. 5. Android Studio: Integrated development environment for Android app development, supports both Intel and M-series Macs, free, offers debugging tools and hardware/software simulation capabilities. Emulators serve various purposes, including gaming, app testing, and managing social media accounts.

Winsage

November 13, 2024

How to make the most of Windows Autopatch with Intune

Patching is a critical responsibility for IT departments to protect organizational data. Windows Autopatch is a cloud-based service from Microsoft that automates the update management process for Windows, Microsoft 365 applications, Microsoft Edge, and Microsoft Teams, enhancing security and productivity. It integrates with Microsoft Intune and utilizes Windows Update for Business to manage patching for Windows devices. Organizations must acquire the necessary licensing for Windows Autopatch and ensure devices are registered for the update management cycle. Key features include deployment rings, which determine the percentage of devices receiving updates, and update settings that dictate update behavior. Reporting capabilities provide insights into update status and notifications. Windows Autopatch creates configuration profiles for managing updates and establishes deployment profiles for monthly and yearly updates.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

Watch out, Windows Notepad users: Here comes AI

Microsoft has introduced an AI-powered Rewrite feature for Notepad, available to Windows Insiders running Windows 11. Users need the latest Canary or Dev build of Windows 11 and must be signed in with a Microsoft account linked to the Insider program to access the feature. The Rewrite process allows users to modify text by selecting it and using the Rewrite button or shortcut Ctrl + I, generating three distinct versions of the text. AI credits are required for content generation, with initial allocations set at 50 credits for users in select countries and 60 credits monthly for Microsoft 365 subscribers. The Rewrite feature is currently limited to Dev or Canary builds of Windows 11 and may take time to reach the standard version of Notepad.

Winsage

November 6, 2024

Soon you can let Microsoft’s Notepad rewrite text for you

Microsoft is integrating AI-powered text editing capabilities into Notepad, introducing a feature called Rewrite, which is currently available for testing by Windows Insiders. Rewrite allows users to rephrase sentences, adjust tone, and modify content length. To use it, users highlight text, right-click, and select Rewrite, after which they can specify how to alter the text and receive three rewritten options. Accessing Rewrite requires signing in to a Microsoft account, and it is being rolled out in preview on Windows 11 in several countries, including the US, France, UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany. This update follows the introduction of spell check and autocorrect functionalities in July. Additionally, Microsoft is previewing new AI image editing tools in Paint, including the Generative Fill feature for adding elements to images and the Generative Erase tool for removing parts of images. The Generative Fill feature will initially be available to testers using Copilot Plus PCs, while the Generative Erase tool will be accessible to all Insiders on Windows 11.

AppWizard

October 20, 2024

Google is about to improve how it checks apps on your Android phone for malware

Google Play Protect scans 200 billion Android applications daily to protect its 3 billion users from malware. A new feature called live threat detection uses AI to monitor app requests for sensitive permissions and interactions. If suspicious activity is detected, the app is flagged for review, and users are alerted. The testing occurs on the device to maintain user privacy through Google’s Private Computer Core. By the end of the year, live threat detection will be integrated into devices from various manufacturers. A report identified 50 dangerous apps in the Google Play Store, including Google Messages and Facebook, based on high-risk permissions requested. Google has required developers to submit a Permissions Declaration Form for apps requesting sensitive permissions by the end of the month, with potential extensions until the year's end for some developers.

Winsage

July 11, 2024

Is Windows Recall bad for businesses?

Recall is a feature in the CoPilot+ ecosystem that allows an AI assistant to carry out complex search tasks by capturing screenshots of the user's device. It combs through computer usage, classifying patterns in behavior, identifying programs used, and creating a search index. This feature raises privacy concerns as it could potentially lead to the sharing of protected information without the user's knowledge. Microsoft has provided the ability to temporarily or permanently stop Recall from operating on a computer, but it is unclear how tightly integrated this feature will be in future updates. Users concerned about privacy can opt for free and open-source software alternatives or privacy-focused service providers like Proton VPN.