digital assistant Archives

Winsage

May 1, 2026

Microsoft now lets admins choose pre-installed Store apps to uninstall

Microsoft has updated its Windows 11 operating system to enhance the management of preinstalled applications. The new RemoveDefaultMicrosoftStorePackages policy allows IT administrators to remove any preinstalled MSIX/APPX applications by referencing their Package Family Name (PFN) through Group Policy Object (GPO) or custom OMA-URI for mobile device management (MDM). This feature requires devices to have at least the April 2026 Windows non-security update. It is available for Windows 11 version 24H2 Enterprise and Education editions, whereas it was initially exclusive to version 25H2 or later. A comprehensive list of supported applications and instructions for applying the policy are provided in Microsoft's documentation. Additionally, a new policy setting enables the uninstallation of the AI-powered Copilot digital assistant from enterprise devices after the April 2026 Patch Tuesday updates. The dynamic list option for this policy will be rolled out in the coming months.

Winsage

April 27, 2026

Avoid Security Gaps and Compatibility Issues With a $9.97 Windows 11 Pro Upgrade

Windows 11 Pro keys are currently available for .97, offering an economical upgrade option that enhances software compatibility and security. The operating system includes features like Snap Layouts, multiple desktops, BitLocker encryption, Smart App Control, biometric logins, and an integrated AI assistant called Copilot. These enhancements aim to improve workflow management and security for businesses handling sensitive information. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro can rejuvenate existing hardware performance, and the offer is significantly reduced from the MSRP of 9. Prices are subject to change.

AppWizard

December 11, 2025

Gemini could change how you read books on your phone

A recent beta update for Google Play Books & Audiobooks (v2025.11.29.2) includes code suggesting a new feature called “Ask Gemini,” which would allow users to select text and request AI-driven insights or summaries directly within the app. This feature may appear alongside the existing Define button and aims to provide broader context for highlighted text. While not yet operational, it could enable users to generate summaries, simplify complex language, or access relevant context without needing to switch apps. It remains unclear whether the feature will function within the Play Books app or redirect to the standalone Gemini app.

Winsage

December 4, 2025

Announcing the Microsoft Store Awards 2025 winners

The Microsoft Store Awards recognized exceptional applications that enhance user experiences within the Windows ecosystem. AI Assistants category: - Winner: Perplexity by Perplexity AI - Features native voice dictation, multi-modal AI search, and deep desktop integration for rapid research. - Winner: ChatGPT by OpenAI - Provides instant answers, direct image and file uploads, and enterprise-level privacy controls. Business category: - Winner: Invoice Maker & Estimate Creator by Moon Technolabs Pvt. Ltd. - Streamlines finance tasks with customizable templates and real-time payment tracking. Computer-Using Agents (CUA) category: - Winner: Manus by Manus AI - Automates complex tasks within a secure sandbox and allows users to guide ongoing actions. Creativity category: - Winner: n-Track Studio by n-Track S.r.I. - Transforms devices into recording studios with support for unlimited tracks and advanced effects. Developer Tools category: - Winner: ngrok by ngrok - Facilitates secure tunneling and remote access with automatic updates and compatibility with Windows Defender. Education category: - Winner: Scratch 3 by Scratch Foundation - Empowers students in computational thinking through engaging projects and block coding. Game category: - Winner: Castle Craft by Clever Apps Pte Ltd - Offers an immersive gaming experience with dynamic resource merging and family-friendly design. Music category: - Winner: Moises Live by Moises Systems, Inc - Leverages real-time AI audio separation technology for remixing and practice. Productivity category: - Winner: Notion by Notion Labs Inc - Consolidates tasks and notes into a searchable workspace with automation features. Each winner will receive a Store Award Winner badge in the Microsoft Store.

Winsage

November 1, 2025

This $10 Windows 11 Pro Upgrade Will Keep Your Systems Secure and Compliant

Upgrading to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, significantly reduced from its MSRP of 9. This operating system is designed to enhance productivity and efficiency by revitalizing existing hardware. Key features include Snap Layouts, multiple desktops, and security enhancements like BitLocker encryption and biometric logins. Support for Windows 10 has ended, making the upgrade necessary. The integrated AI assistant, Copilot, helps with tasks such as summarizing documents, drafting email responses, extracting spreadsheet insights, and modifying system settings hands-free. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro can improve the efficiency of current setups without the need for new hardware.

Winsage

October 27, 2025

Windows will soon prompt for memory scans after BSOD crashes

Microsoft is introducing a feature for Windows 11 that prompts users to conduct a memory scan after a blue screen of death (BSOD) to improve system reliability. When a device encounters a bugcheck, users will receive notifications upon logging in, suggesting a quick memory scan. This feature is not available for ARM64 devices or systems protected by Administrator Protection or BitLocker without Secure Boot. If users choose to run the scan, it will be scheduled for the next reboot, typically taking five minutes or less. Notifications will inform users if any memory issues are detected and resolved. The feature is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels with specific Insider Preview Builds. Additionally, Microsoft is testing new connectivity capabilities for its AI-powered Copilot digital assistant, allowing it to connect with Outlook, Gmail, and third-party services like Google Calendar and Google Drive.

Winsage

October 18, 2025

Windows 10 Is Retiring—What’s Next for Windows 11?

Microsoft is transitioning from Windows 10 to a future that integrates artificial intelligence into Windows 11 through its Copilot feature. The company aims to create a computing environment where PCs can understand commands and engage in conversations, handling tasks like organizing photos and troubleshooting. Copilot will include enhanced capabilities called "Vision" and "Voice," allowing users to interact with their devices through voice commands. This new approach positions voice as a third input method alongside keyboard and mouse. Copilot Actions will enable the AI to perform local tasks on PCs securely. Microsoft is launching an advertising campaign to reshape user perceptions of personal computing as a collaborative partner.

Winsage

October 17, 2025

Microsoft Unleashes AI Revolution: Windows 11 Transforms Every PC into an ‘AI PC’ with Hands-Free Copilot as Windows 10 Support Ends

Microsoft has launched a significant update for Windows 11, coinciding with the end of free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This update integrates artificial intelligence deeply into the operating system, transforming Windows 11 machines into 'AI PCs' with hands-free interaction capabilities through the intelligent assistant, Copilot. Key features include "Hey Copilot" voice activation, Copilot Vision for analyzing on-screen content, and Copilot Actions for performing multi-step tasks autonomously. These advancements are available to all Windows 11 PCs, democratizing access to AI technology. The update is expected to drive a migration from Windows 10 and reshape the competitive landscape for AI and computing. Microsoft aims to make AI a fundamental part of the user experience, setting new standards for interaction and potentially impacting various device categories. Future developments will focus on enhancing AI capabilities and ensuring privacy and security measures are in place.

AppWizard

October 11, 2025

How to use AI on your Android phone

Manufacturers are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence into smartphones to differentiate their devices, particularly among Android brands. Companies like Google and Samsung are embedding AI-assisted functionalities to enhance user experience. The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 will showcase various AI features, with Samsung's Galaxy AI interface designed for intuitive navigation. A notable feature is Gemini Live, which allows users to interact with their digital assistant in a conversational manner and share their surroundings through the camera for immediate information. Activating Gemini Live is done by tapping the Live icon in the Gemini app. While AI features are prevalent, users can deactivate them for a more traditional interaction if preferred.

AppWizard

October 7, 2025

Gemini could soon bring more tools right to your fingertips

Google's Gemini AI digital assistant is set to receive updates that include a Tools icon in the overlay for easy access to features like AI image generation, Veo videos, Deep Research, and Canvas. Users can tap the Tools icon to quickly access these functionalities without switching applications. Additionally, a potential Circle to Select feature may be integrated, allowing users to circle an area on their screen to capture it. Google is also refining the user interface for generated images, moving the Sharing and Download icons to the bottom of the image view and adding a Copy Image feature. Updates will also enhance the three-dot menu in the chat with Copy and Download options for generated image responses. These features are still in development and their availability may vary in future releases.