criteria Archives

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Windows tests long-awaited changes to Start, Share, and Search

Microsoft has released two test builds of Windows 11: Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (KB5052078) in the Beta Channel and Insider Preview Build 26120.3291 (KB5052080) as an optional release in both Beta and Dev Channels. Build 26120.3291 introduces a semantic search capability, allowing searches by descriptive terms, but is limited to Qualcomm-powered Snapdragon PCs. Users of the Recall feature will lose all saved snapshots during the upgrade process. Build 22635.4950 tests a new Share interface that simplifies file sharing through a drag-and-drop mechanism. The Start menu will receive new configuration options, including a grid view and a "categories" view for app organization. These updates will be available to Windows Insiders receiving updates for Windows 11, version 24H2.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

The Play Store sucks, so here’s what I use instead

As of early February 2025, there are nearly 2.1 million apps available on the Play Store, with over 1,100 new apps introduced daily, resulting in an average of almost 42,000 new options each month. The search function on the Play Store is often ineffective for broader queries, and users face challenges due to the lack of sorting options and transparency regarding app updates. F-Droid is a platform for free and open-source software (FOSS) applications, requiring sideloading or the use of clients like Neo Store or Droid-ify. Obtainium is a tool that allows users to access open-source applications and updates directly from their sources, supporting over a dozen repositories including GitHub and GitLab, and enables users to export curated app lists and track updates without downloading them.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

Windows 10 Approaches Its End of Life: What You Need to Know

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025, meaning it will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. Users will be left vulnerable to malware and other cyber threats, and existing system issues will remain unresolved. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11, which offers new features, improved performance, and enhanced security. Users can upgrade to Windows 11 through Windows Update if their devices meet the system requirements. If not, they may need to consider new hardware. While Windows 10 will still receive security updates until the end of support date, it will not receive new features, prompting users to plan their migration to avoid security risks. It is advised to back up important data before transitioning to ensure a smooth upgrade process.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

5 features the Windows File Explorer needs if it’s ever going to be good

Windows 11's File Explorer is functional but has room for improvement compared to third-party file managers. Suggested enhancements include: - Tagging files with labels and colors for easier organization, similar to macOS's Finder. - Quick file preview capability that allows users to view file contents without opening applications, akin to macOS's Spacebar feature. - A more intuitive bulk renaming process that provides clear options for sequentially renaming files. - Automatic file sorting based on custom rules to streamline organization. - Dual-pane navigation to simplify file management across multiple folders. These features could significantly enhance the user experience and elevate File Explorer's functionality.

AppWizard

February 18, 2025

X Blocks Signal Messenger Links Shared on Posts, DMs, and More—But Why?

Users are experiencing difficulties sharing links from Signal Messenger on Elon Musk's X platform, as these links appear to be blocked. Reports indicate that attempts to share Signal links result in various error messages, affecting public tweets and direct messages. There has been no official explanation from X regarding this restriction. Journalist Matt Binder noted that links to Signal have seemingly vanished from X, with users reporting similar issues. Error messages encountered range from generic notices to alerts labeling posts as harmful content or spam. While links already posted may carry warnings, they can still be accessed; however, links associated with Signal handles or the main website are currently inaccessible. Elon Musk previously endorsed Signal Messenger as a trustworthy alternative to WhatsApp, but the current blockage suggests a shift in his stance on secure messaging.

Tech Optimizer

February 18, 2025

Microsoft Defender vs. McAfee: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue from partner links. Microsoft Defender, a free built-in antivirus for Windows, offers minimal configuration and supports Windows 10 and 11, while McAfee, which holds a 12.47% share of the global antivirus market, provides extensive privacy monitoring and data protection across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) with various pricing plans ranging from .99 to 9.99. Microsoft Defender supports a single device and includes features like real-time threat protection, parental controls, and a firewall, but lacks advanced features like VPN and identity theft monitoring. McAfee offers a wider range of features, including a VPN, identity theft monitoring, and data cleanup, making it a more comprehensive solution despite its higher cost. Microsoft Defender has an overall rating of 3.8/5, while McAfee rates 4.4/5, excelling in customer support with multiple channels, including live chat and phone support. Microsoft Defender is suitable for users on a budget, while McAfee is better for those needing robust privacy and identity protection. Alternatives to consider include Norton, Bitdefender, and Malwarebytes.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Microsoft ends its OEM support for several Intel generations of processors in Windows 24H2

Support for Microsoft Windows 10 will end in October 2025. Microsoft will phase out support for 8th, 9th, and 10th generation Intel processors for Windows 11 version 24H2, meaning new OEM devices will not ship with these processors. Users with existing PCs or laptops using these processors can still use Windows 11 and receive updates, although future updates may have limitations. Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, which is present in the affected Intel generations. Only devices with Intel processors from the 12th generation and beyond, as well as AMD's 8000 series, will qualify for new OEM devices running Windows 11.

Winsage

February 15, 2025

Windows 11 is testing another Game Pass ad for your Settings menu.

Microsoft is testing a new advertisement for Game Pass within the Settings menu of Windows 11, offering a complimentary trial of PC Game Pass that can be shared with friends. The advertisement will only be visible to users logged into their Microsoft accounts who meet specific eligibility criteria. This feature is being rolled out to the Dev and Beta Channels as part of the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3281.

Tech Optimizer

February 14, 2025

XELERA Ransomware Attacking Job Seekers With Weaponized Word Documents

Job seekers are targeted by a ransomware campaign called "XELERA," which uses counterfeit job offers from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to lure victims. The campaign begins with spear phishing emails containing a malicious Word document named “FCEI-job-notification.doc.” This document hides an OLE object that extracts a compressed PyInstaller executable called “jobnotification2025.exe,” which is designed to evade antivirus detection. The malware's structure includes a core script (mainscript.pyc) and supporting libraries for system monitoring and network operations. A Discord bot serves as a Command-and-Control server, allowing remote command execution, including privilege escalation, system control, credential theft, and visual disruption. The final stage of the attack involves deploying the XELERA ransomware, which demands a ransom in Litecoin and includes functions to terminate Windows Explorer and download a tool for MBR corruption.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

Microsoft makes another tweak to Windows 11’s taskbar – but it’s probably not the change you were hoping for

Microsoft has introduced a new icon on the Windows 11 taskbar that provides access to AI-driven Windows Studio Effects, which enhance video call quality with features like background blurring, simulated direct eye contact, improved lighting, and user centering. The icon appears when compatible applications are using the webcam, allowing users to see which application is accessing it, thus enhancing privacy. However, the feature is limited to devices with specific hardware requirements, including 16GB of RAM and a CPU with a neural processing unit (NPU), potentially restricting access for many users. This initiative is part of Microsoft's strategy to promote AI features, but user feedback has been mixed, with some expressing disappointment over the lack of traditional taskbar functionalities and questioning the necessity of these enhancements for professional use.