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Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build for Canary Channel 29565.1000
Winsage
April 11, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build for Canary Channel 29565.1000

Windows Insider Preview Build 29565.1000 has been released in the Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel. Key updates include improved performance for the Bubbles screensaver on high refresh rate monitors, refinements to the drag tray based on user feedback, and enhancements to the Windows Security app, which now features color-coded icon badges for Secure Boot status. The Feedback Hub has also received updates, including a new default window size that remembers dimensions, mouse back button navigation, and improved visibility for community feedback. Canary Channel builds may be unstable and are subject to change. Users can enable a toggle in Settings to access new features gradually. A clean installation of Windows 11 is required to exit the Canary Channel.
Roblox unveils new Roblox Plus monthly subscription that pays creators who get players to sign up for the new Roblox Plus monthly subscription
AppWizard
April 11, 2026

Roblox unveils new Roblox Plus monthly subscription that pays creators who get players to sign up for the new Roblox Plus monthly subscription

Roblox has contributed over 60% to the net growth in consumer spending within the games industry, excluding China, since 2021. The company has launched a new subscription plan called Roblox Plus, aimed at enhancing user experience and providing creators with additional revenue opportunities. Roblox will absorb the costs of discounts, ensuring creators earn the same amount on individual purchases. The platform's API documentation includes a script that encourages players to subscribe to Roblox Plus, offering immediate rewards and access to exclusive areas. Roblox has indicated that this launch is just the beginning of their plans for expansion.
Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8165 (Beta Channel)
Winsage
April 11, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8165 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.8165 (KB 5083635) has been released to the Beta Channel, featuring several updates: - The FAT32 volume formatting size limit has increased from 32GB to 2TB. - Performance improvements for navigating large volumes in Storage settings. - Reduced frequency of UAC prompts on the Storage page. - Resolution of unrealistic data usage values in Network settings. - Enhancements to the Windows Security app's Secure Boot experience, including color-coded icon badges and updated certificates. - A revamped Feedback Hub with a modernized experience, simpler feedback submission, easier navigation, a new compliment feedback type, and improved screenshot capture tools. - Updates are based on Windows 11, version 25H2, and features are gradually rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology. - A desktop watermark appears in Insider pre-release builds. - Features may not be released beyond Windows Insiders and may evolve or be removed.
Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170 (Dev Channel)
Winsage
April 11, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8170 (KB 5083632) has been released to the Dev Channel. Key changes include: - The FAT32 volume formatting size limit has increased from 32GB to 2TB. - Performance improvements for navigating large storage volumes in Settings. - A UAC prompt for accessing temporary files is now only shown when entering that specific section. - An issue with unrealistic data usage values in the Network settings has been fixed. - Enhancements to the Windows Security app include color-coded icon badges and updated text in the Secure Boot section, with updates to Secure Boot certificates being rolled out. - Feedback Hub version 2.2604.101.0 is being rolled out, featuring design improvements, improved default window size, mouse back button navigation, and corrected upvote buttons for Chinese display language users. Updates are based on Windows 11, version 25H2, and features are rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology. The desktop watermark is present in Insider pre-release builds. Features may not be released to the public and could evolve or be removed based on feedback.
Microsoft's Shift to Native Windows Apps: A Win for Users?
Winsage
April 10, 2026

Microsoft’s Shift to Native Windows Apps: A Win for Users?

Microsoft is shifting its focus towards web applications, raising concerns among users about the future of the Windows operating system. This trend has led to a homogenization of the Windows experience, making it harder for users to distinguish it from other operating systems. Historically, Microsoft has prioritized native applications, which provide unique performance and functionality. The rise of web apps has been influenced by the popularity of mobile devices and the need for cross-platform compatibility. There is uncertainty about whether Microsoft will continue down the path of web technologies or return to prioritizing native app development. Tish Haag, an author, noted that while web technologies are useful, they have contributed to the loss of Windows' unique identity. To maintain relevance, Microsoft needs to reconsider its strategy and reinvest in native app development.
Windows and Xbox rediscover user feedback and fans are wondering what took so long
Winsage
April 10, 2026

Windows and Xbox rediscover user feedback and fans are wondering what took so long

Microsoft has shifted its focus to better address user needs, revitalizing its Xbox Series X|S consoles and re-engaging with the gaming community through initiatives like the global Xbox FanFest. The company is also working to improve its relationship with Windows users by acknowledging past criticisms and planning to reinstate Windows Insider meetups and prioritize user-requested features. Despite these efforts, skepticism remains among observers of Microsoft's trajectory. Microsoft's relationship with OpenAI is complicated, with CEO Satya Nadella expressing concerns about backlash against AI integration. The company has invested over a billion dollars in OpenAI for exclusive access to AI models but may pursue legal action against OpenAI due to its collaborations with other tech giants. Microsoft's AI and cloud businesses are facing scrutiny from investors, with concerns about profitability and the sustainability of Azure operations. Nearly half of U.S. data centers planned for 2026 are at risk of cancellation, complicating Microsoft's AI ambitions. OpenAI's path to profitability is expected to be long, with projections suggesting it may not turn a profit until 2030. The competitive landscape, including rivals like Anthropic and alternatives from China, adds uncertainty. Legal challenges may arise from OpenAI's agreements with other companies, potentially affecting Microsoft's interests. Nadella's reference to "societal permission" indicates an awareness of Microsoft's public image, which has suffered. Xbox has faced community engagement issues, and Windows 11 has experienced public relations challenges and a decline in innovation. The costs associated with AI have been substantial, impacting Microsoft's reputation and consumer trust.
Apple's chips are the core of a new landscape, but its biggest win is Windows
Winsage
April 7, 2026

Apple’s chips are the core of a new landscape, but its biggest win is Windows

Apple introduced its M1 Apple Silicon systems in late 2020, which received admiration but raised concerns due to a restrictive ecosystem. Over five years, Apple’s architecture has evolved, addressing challenges like gigabit Wi-Fi and high-speed expansion, yet it remains focused on desktops and laptops. The anticipated MacBook Neo, lacking an M-type System on Chip, has created apprehension within the Windows ecosystem. Currently, no Windows laptop can match the MacBook Neo in hardware quality and startup experience, while macOS offers a more tranquil workspace compared to the distractions of Windows 11. Apple has effectively utilized advancements in processor technology and manufacturing control to produce efficient chips and maintain a coherent ecosystem, making its products increasingly accessible. In contrast, Windows OEMs face challenges with component sourcing, build quality, and reliance on bloatware. There is potential for Microsoft to create a Windows Neo variant that meets user needs, while the sustainability of current business models for Windows OEMs is uncertain.
Disgruntled researcher drops “BlueHammer” Windows zero-day LPE exploit
Winsage
April 7, 2026

Disgruntled researcher drops “BlueHammer” Windows zero-day LPE exploit

A security researcher, known as "Nightmare-Eclipse," released proof-of-concept exploit code for a Windows zero-day vulnerability called "BlueHammer," which allows local privilege escalation (LPE). The exploit has been validated by another researcher, Will Dormann, who confirmed it can escalate privileges on Windows systems, allowing non-administrative users to gain SYSTEM-level access. The exploit's reliability varies across different Windows versions, with inconsistent success rates reported. Microsoft has not acknowledged the vulnerability or provided a patch, raising concerns about potential exploitation by threat actors. Users are advised to restrict local user access, monitor for suspicious activity, and enable advanced endpoint protection.
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