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Steam Machine compatibility checks are here, though not every game on the store enjoys a rating
AppWizard
July 13, 2026

Steam Machine compatibility checks are here, though not every game on the store enjoys a rating

Steam users can now check a game's compatibility with Steam Machine and SteamOS directly from the store page. This feature was introduced after the Steam Machine's June release. Players can click 'learn more' next to the Steam Deck compatibility rating for an overview of compatibility across Valve's hardware and software. The game Black Myth: Wukong has an 'unknown' compatibility status with the Steam Machine, while it runs successfully on SteamOS. Valve is investigating compatibility for titles like Dragon’s Dogma 2 and Elden Ring Nightreign. Some games, like 007: First Light, can achieve a 'Verified' rating on the Steam Machine. Currently, the Steam store does not allow filtering by Steam Machine or SteamOS compatibility, but this feature is expected soon.
Microsoft demystifies how Windows updates work
Winsage
July 13, 2026

Microsoft demystifies how Windows updates work

Microsoft has released a guide on the Windows servicing model, detailing monthly security updates, optional preview releases, hotpatch updates, and feature rollout mechanisms. Patch Tuesday occurs every second Tuesday of the month, delivering cumulative security updates to supported Windows versions. For consumers and small businesses, updates are managed through Windows Update, while enterprises can use various tools like Windows Autopatch and WSUS. Hotpatch updates, which focus on security fixes, can be installed without a restart, unlike quarterly baseline updates that require one. Optional non-security preview updates are released in the fourth week of each month for testing upcoming fixes and new features, available only for the latest supported Windows versions. Unmanaged devices can access these updates through Windows Update settings, while IT-managed devices depend on organizational policies. Microsoft also issues out-of-band updates to address urgent issues, which can be deployed through enterprise management tools. New features for Windows 11 are rolled out throughout the year via various channels, with a gradual rollout strategy to monitor quality and compatibility, using the Controlled Feature Rollout approach.
Windows 11 26H2 arrives as a tiny unlock, not a massive download
Winsage
June 22, 2026

Windows 11 26H2 arrives as a tiny unlock, not a massive download

Microsoft has confirmed the release of Windows 11 26H2, scheduled for Fall 2026. This update focuses on improving the update experience for businesses and IT professionals by streamlining maintenance processes. Windows 11 26H2 will be delivered as an enablement package, activating pre-existing code on eligible devices, ensuring a swift installation with minimal disruption. It will unlock features from earlier versions, specifically Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, allowing a seamless transition with minimal operational downtime. The update is currently available to Windows Insiders and emphasizes a predictable, low-disruption experience for IT departments. Key advantages include a streamlined installation process, minimal user disruption, no need for complete reinstallation, consistent security and quality updates, and uniform compatibility checks. The specific release date has not been announced, but it will arrive in the latter half of 2026. The hardware requirements remain the same as previous versions: a minimum of 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and a 1GHz 64-bit dual-core processor.
Microsoft released the Windows 11 Secure Boot update for all PCs, how to verify yours
Winsage
June 15, 2026

Microsoft released the Windows 11 Secure Boot update for all PCs, how to verify yours

Microsoft has expanded the rollout of the Secure Boot 2023 certificate update to more Windows 11 and Windows 10 devices with the June 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5094126). This update aims to ensure that most supported consumer PCs are classified as high confidence, meaning necessary certificates are either installed or will be applied automatically. Secure Boot is a firmware security feature that verifies the software attempting to load during the startup process, blocking unauthorized software. The certificates supporting Secure Boot, issued in 2011, are expiring in stages starting June 24, 2026, prompting Microsoft to deploy replacement certificates. Most home users do not need to take manual action as the updates will occur automatically via Windows Update. Users can check their Secure Boot certificate status in the Windows Security app. A yellow warning indicates pending compatibility data, while a red alert suggests a firmware incompatibility requiring a BIOS update. Multiple reboots during the update process are normal, and a new SecureBoot folder in Windows is for staging cryptographic files. Older PCs may experience longer update times, and some may not receive updates due to firmware issues. HP users should check for BIOS updates if encountering BitLocker recovery loops. IT administrators should monitor device classifications and manually initiate updates for devices not in the high confidence category. Devices with Secure Boot disabled cannot receive updates, leaving them vulnerable. The expiration of the Microsoft Corporation KEK CA 2011 certificate on June 24 does not immediately affect device functionality, but it limits Microsoft's ability to sign new bootkit blacklist updates.
Rivian Software Chief Says Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Are Redundant in the World of AI
AppWizard
May 28, 2026

Rivian Software Chief Says Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Are Redundant in the World of AI

Rivian's Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, has stated that the integration of artificial intelligence in vehicles may soon replace dedicated app integration, moving beyond traditional screen mirroring methods. He argues that current reliance on screen mirroring detracts from the user experience designed by automotive engineers. Rivian plans to use voice commands to enhance user interaction and create a more cohesive experience. Bensaid believes that with Rivian's level of integration and convenience, traditional systems like CarPlay and Android Auto may become obsolete. This shift could allow automakers greater control over customer experiences and new revenue opportunities, although the transition will take time as the necessary tools are still being developed.
Has 2025 seen a successful refresh to Windows 11?
Winsage
December 23, 2025

Has 2025 seen a successful refresh to Windows 11?

Windows 11 has a market share of 53.7%, while Windows 10 has 42.7%. Approximately 700 million devices are running Windows 11. Microsoft has urged users to upgrade from Windows 10, which officially ended support in October 2025, leaving users without updates or security patches. Users on Windows 10 may need to purchase an extended security package for protection until October 2026. Hardware compatibility issues, particularly with the Trusted Platform Module 2.0 requirement, may prevent some users from upgrading. The 25H2 update for Windows 11 introduced various enhancements but also created new issues. Windows 12's release is uncertain, with expectations for AI advancements, but details are speculative.
Can't upgrade your Windows 10 PC? You have 1 week left
Winsage
October 8, 2025

Can’t upgrade your Windows 10 PC? You have 1 week left

The end-of-support date for Windows 10 is October 14, 2025. Microsoft will not extend support or change hardware requirements. Users can sign up for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for an additional year after the end-of-support date, with costs varying for consumers, educational institutions, and businesses. Users are encouraged to buy new PCs or rent virtual PCs through Windows 365. There are methods to bypass compatibility checks for Windows 11 on existing machines, but this may void warranties. Users can also switch to Linux or ChromeOS Flex, though this requires technical expertise. Continuing to use an unsupported operating system poses security risks, and while third-party solutions exist, they are not recommended for critical systems. After the end-of-support date, all editions of Windows 10 will no longer receive technical support or security updates.
Windows 11 25H2 update is out now, but be warned – this is one of the strangest upgrades ever
Winsage
October 1, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 update is out now, but be warned – this is one of the strangest upgrades ever

Microsoft has rolled out the Windows 11 annual update, designated as version 25H2. This update is described as an "enablement package," allowing users on version 24H2 to access new features, including a revamped Start menu with a layout change and the option to disable Microsoft's recommendations. These enhancements are also available to users on 24H2, potentially even before those who upgrade to 25H2. The update includes improvements in security features, such as build and runtime vulnerability detection and AI-assisted secure coding. It also removes legacy features like PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation command line. Users can enable the 'Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available' setting to position themselves for the update, although compatibility checks may delay rollout for some PCs. Microsoft advises against bypassing the standard update process to avoid complications.
Is end of service leaving your system vulnerable? The risks no IT leader can ignore
Winsage
September 28, 2025

Is end of service leaving your system vulnerable? The risks no IT leader can ignore

Unsupported operating systems and device software lack regular updates, making them vulnerable to cyber attacks. Devices running on unsupported platforms can become gateways for attackers, as they are susceptible to known exploits that can be easily weaponized. According to Microsoft’s 2024 Digital Defense Report, over 90% of successful ransomware attacks target unmanaged endpoints. Unsupported versions can bypass standard security solutions and often fail compatibility checks with modern security tools, leading to significant protection gaps. Additionally, these vulnerabilities can be exploited to steal credentials and gain unauthorized access, posing risks to overall network security.
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