Development Archives

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Windows 11 Auto-Recovery: Cloud Repair Off by Default on Corporate Devices, Forcing IT Departments to Weigh the Pros and Cons

Microsoft's Quick Machine Recovery feature, integrated into Windows 11, is disabled by default for enterprise-managed devices due to a significant incident in July 2024 when a faulty security update caused many devices to be unable to boot. The feature identifies devices that fail to boot multiple times and connects to Windows Update via the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to search for fixes. It is available in Windows 11 version 24H2 (build 26100.4700) and later, with default settings varying based on device management status: disabled for Enterprise/Education editions and domain-joined Pro editions, and enabled for Home and unmanaged Pro editions. Administrators can configure options such as enabling/disabling cloud repair, automatic repair, and setting remediation check frequencies. A test mode is available for devices in the Windows Insider Program. Additionally, starting October 13, 2026, Microsoft will implement restrictions on external storage devices formatted with ReFS, which will be audited by default, with enforcement beginning in January 2027. Users will need to transition data from ReFS to supported formats by this date. A registry and Group Policy setting named "RefsRemovableDeviceMountPolicy" will allow customization of this restriction.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Personal Intelligence hits the road: Google brings Gemini’s tailored assistance to Android Auto

Google plans to integrate its Gemini's Personal Intelligence into vehicles equipped with Android Auto, enhancing the driving experience by providing personalized assistance similar to that on Android phones. The feature will allow the AI to connect to Workspace apps, Gmail, Photos, and Search for tailored help, and can resume previous conversations, find restaurants, and provide directions. The rollout of Personal Intelligence for Android Auto will begin in the coming months, allowing users who have set it up on their phones to enjoy the same experience in their vehicles without additional configuration. Users can also set it up through the Gemini settings if they haven't done so already. Since its debut in January, Gemini's Personal Intelligence has been introduced across various platforms, offering intuitive and contextually relevant interactions, such as meal suggestions based on dietary restrictions and assistance with vehicle-related inquiries.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Gemini can now use your email, calendar and photos while you drive

To enhance the in-car experience, assess and remove unnecessary Google apps linked to the vehicle. Test various queries while parked, including ambiguous names and old calendar items. Verify that disabling Personal Intelligence returns the system to a non-personalized mode. Households should discuss account usage during drives and confidentiality of responses. Employers should note that consumer features may not be available for managed Workspace identities. Vehicle owners should anticipate updates for built-in features as indicated by their manufacturer. The effectiveness of these features relies on accurate data retrieval and intentional permissions.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Google’s more personalized Gemini AI is heading to your car

Google has integrated its Gemini AI with various Google applications to enhance the driving experience for users of Android Auto and vehicles with Google built-in. Gemini can access information from Gmail, Calendar, Maps, Photos, YouTube, and Search, allowing drivers to retrieve flight details, request directions, and navigate using visual data from photos. Major automotive manufacturers like Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Volvo, and Polestar are incorporating this technology into their latest models. Users must enable the Personal Intelligence setting for tailored responses, which will only work when the phone is connected to the vehicle. Essential functions like navigation, music playback, and calling remain operational without Personal Intelligence. The rollout of Personal Intelligence for Android Auto begins today, with support for vehicles with Google built-in expected in the coming months.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 Brings 21 Fixes to Pixel Phones

Google has released Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2, addressing 21 issues, including eight significant crash-and-reboot bugs. The update is available for various Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6a to Pixel 11 series, the Pixel Tablet, and the Pixel Fold. Notable fixes include resolving crashes during usage, unexpected shutdowns during WhatsApp video calls, and connectivity issues with cellular data, MMS, and hotspot services. Interface adjustments include corrections to the Internet tile in Quick Settings and the alignment of a pin icon in the share sheet. A new lock-screen setting requires users to unlock their device before changing Quick Settings tiles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplane mode, or mobile data. The stable version is anticipated in March 2027.

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Windows and Xbox teams reportedly clashed over OS experience for gaming, as next-gen Xbox Helix console slips into 2028

Microsoft plans to introduce new gaming hardware, starting with a handheld device expected in 2027 and a full-fledged console slated for 2028. The handheld device's details are unclear, and it may be developed in collaboration with a third-party manufacturer. The upcoming console is anticipated to be a first-party offering running on a specialized version of Windows. Development kits for these devices are expected to be available in early 2027.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 for Pixel rolling out with 21 fixes

The Android 17 QPR3 preview is set to launch in March 2027, with Beta 2 now available for Google Pixel devices. This update resolves various issues, including: - Intermittent device crashes and reboots during normal usage. - Persistent text in the Internet Quick Settings tile when mobile data is active without Wi-Fi. - Media output dialog failing to recognize the monochrome system theme with external audio devices. - Misalignment of pin icons next to pinned apps in the share sheet. - Unexpected API lint and source compatibility check errors from internal PublishedApi declarations. - Unexpected device shutdowns during WhatsApp video calls. - Overlapping lock screen notifications with UI elements causing stuttering animations. - Cellular data, MMS, and hotspot services failing on Dish Network. - Screen recording freezing after screen rotation. - Abnormally small rendering of system UI, fonts, and apps regardless of display size settings. - Display turning black and unresponsive after ending a phone call. - Terminal app failing to launch the Linux development environment virtual machine post-installation. - Wi-Fi Aware errors when establishing data paths after network request release. - Paired watches ringing after an incoming call is answered. - Airbnb app failing to connect when sending messages. - Misalignment of Bluetooth subtitle in Quick Settings. - Unexpected closure of the app drawer when switching keyboard languages. - Bluetooth pairing failures due to connection timeouts. - VoLTE, VoNR, and Wi-Fi calling unavailable on the IT&E network. - High idle battery drain from motion sensors remaining active post Face Unlock or camera use. - Wi-Fi Calling unavailable on the OXIO network. Users can report issues via the Android Beta Feedback app or the Android Beta community on Reddit. System images for Android 17 QPR3 Beta 2 are available for various Pixel devices, and interested users can join the Android Beta Program for an on-device OTA experience.

Winsage

October 20, 2026

Windows 98 SE users get a Thunderbolt 4 driver, thanks to AI assistance — vibe-coded xHCI98 driver works in Microsoft OSes up to Windows 7

Windows 98 SE now has experimental support for USB4 and Thunderbolt 3/4 through the xHCI98 v3.0.0.0 driver developed by Yeo Kheng Meng. This driver enables the use of generic USB 3.x, USB4, and Thunderbolt host controllers on legacy operating systems like Windows 98 SE, ME, 2000, XP, Vista, and 7. It allows connections for USB storage devices, replaces native USB drivers, and supports USB 1.1, 2.0, SuperSpeed devices, UAS storage, and Thunderbolt docks and NVMe enclosures. Meng utilized AI tools for development and primarily tested the driver on Intel hardware, while advising users to be cautious of potential bugs. He also provides guidance on hardware compatibility, installation methods, and updates.

Winsage

October 20, 2026

Microsoft To Block ReFS-Formatted USB Drives And External Storage On Windows Starting January 2027

Starting in January 2027, Windows will block ReFS-formatted USB drives and external storage devices by default as part of a security initiative. This change will affect Windows 11, supported Windows 10 installations, and Windows Server. The rollout will occur in two phases: 1. On October 13, 2026, an initial security update will introduce auditing for affected ReFS volumes, allowing them to mount but recording them in the Event Viewer. 2. In January 2027, Windows will prevent affected ReFS volumes from mounting unless overridden by an administrator. This change will not erase the contents of affected drives, but users may lose access to their files. Microsoft has stated that this move aims to reduce exposure associated with unsupported storage configurations. Most users are unlikely to notice immediate effects, as common USB drives use FAT32, exFAT, or NTFS, which are not subject to this restriction. Users with ReFS-formatted external storage should consider transferring their files to a supported format before the deadline. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced a registry and Group Policy setting, RefsRemovableDeviceMountPolicy, to allow for configurable restrictions.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Xodus Nexus Project Opens Access to PC Catalog Game Pass on devices running Linux and SteamOS operating systems

The independent developer community has made progress in improving gaming on Linux and SteamOS. The open-source Xodus Nexus project, created by enthusiast domsvoboda, is an unofficial graphical launcher that allows users to browse, download, and launch games from services like Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass without using Windows. It uses a modified Xodus backend and a Nexus runtime environment based on Proton, enabling interaction with the file system and Microsoft gaming services. Users can authorize their Xbox accounts, and the application supports cloud save syncing for compatible titles. Notable games that have been successfully launched include Forza Horizon 6, Gears of War: E-Day, Sea of Thieves, and Avowed. The latest version, v0.3.8, adds Xbox achievement tracking, playtime monitoring, and recent activity displays, and allows users to add installed games to their Steam library as third-party shortcuts. The project is independent, with no formal ties to Microsoft, Valve, or the core Xodus team, and game compatibility remains inconsistent. Support for the Steam Deck and integration into Game Mode is experimental, and some features may require a touchscreen or mouse for initial login or interaction.