environmental sustainability Archives

Winsage

May 8, 2025

Microsoft wants you to ditch Windows 10 for Windows 11, but End Of 10 thinks Linux is a better option

Microsoft is concluding its support for Windows 10 and is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11 or purchase new devices with Copilot+ technology. In response, the End Of 10 project, initiated by Linux enthusiasts, promotes Linux as a viable alternative for users who can no longer run Windows 10. This initiative is community-driven and includes contributors from various sectors of the Linux community, emphasizing that many users can continue using their computers by installing an up-to-date Linux operating system. The project highlights several benefits of switching to Linux, including lower costs, privacy, environmental sustainability, community support, and user control. The End Of 10 website provides resources and assistance for those interested in making the transition to Linux.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3950 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3950 (KB5055653) has been released to the Beta Channel for Windows 11, version 24H2. Insiders on version 23H2 can opt to upgrade to version 24H2 with this build. Key changes include the introduction of energy saver management in Microsoft Intune, allowing IT administrators to manage energy settings on Windows 11 PCs. Other updates involve UI experiments in Recall, taskbar enhancements, and graphics improvements for HDR capabilities. Fixes include resolving keyboard focus issues in the taskbar, startup sound playback issues, and scaling problems after sleep/resume. Known issues involve bugs with Xbox Controllers and live captions crashing. Insiders are reminded to keep their devices updated for optimal performance and access to features.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5581 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5581 (KB5055651) has been released to the Dev Channel, introducing new features, improvements, and fixes. Key updates include: - Energy Saver in Microsoft Intune: IT administrators can manage energy saver settings on Windows 11 PCs through group policies and MDM configurations, optimizing battery usage by limiting background activities and reducing screen brightness. - Taskbar Improvements: The needy state pill for apps has been redesigned, and administrators can allow users to unpin specific pinned apps. - Graphics Enhancements: Improved management of HDR capabilities, including refined wording for HDR settings and independent toggling of Dolby Vision mode. - Fixes: Resolved issues with taskbar keyboard focus, startup sound playback, scaling after sleep, and cumulative update errors. - Known Issues: Users may experience discrepancies in build version display after PC resets and issues with Xbox Controllers causing bugchecks. - Recall (Preview): Users can opt to remove Recall at any time, and intelligent text actions are now moderated locally. - Windows Search: For optimal performance, devices should be connected to power during initial search indexing. - Task Manager: Users may see the System Idle Process showing as 0 after the addition of a new CPU Utility column. Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel receive updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2, with features rolled out gradually.

Winsage

October 31, 2024

Microsoft throws Windows 11 haters a lifeline – but a year more of Windows 10 support costs $30

Microsoft is introducing an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 10 users, allowing them to receive essential security updates until October 2026, as support for Windows 10 ends in October 2025. This is the first time the ESU program is available for individual consumers, previously reserved for enterprise and educational users. Enrollment for the program will be available closer to the end of support in 2025. The program focuses solely on delivering security patches without new features or technical support, and while existing bugs in Windows 10 will not be fixed, no new bugs will be introduced. Users have options to upgrade to Windows 11, use workarounds for installation, or explore Linux distributions, though each choice comes with its own challenges. The ESU program is a response to concerns about environmental sustainability, as the end of Windows 10 support could lead to millions of PCs being discarded, with reports suggesting up to 240 million PCs could end up in landfills.

AppWizard

September 26, 2024

Samsung adds Hive smart thermostat control to SmartThings home hub app

Users of the SmartThings app can remotely control thermostats and automate connected appliances to optimize electricity usage during peak hours as part of British Gas’ PeakSave scheme, which offers discounts for reducing energy consumption during high-demand periods. The app will intelligently adjust appliance operating modes, allowing users to benefit from times when electricity is cheaper due to renewable energy availability. Samsung is expanding its collaboration with Tesla in the UK, enabling Tesla electric vehicle owners and those with Powerwall batteries, Solar Inverters, or Wall Connectors to manage their devices through the SmartThings app. Samsung's chief customer officer emphasized the need for enhanced energy consumption controls as winter approaches, while Hive's managing director expressed excitement about the partnership aimed at promoting a greener future for customers.

BetaBeacon

September 18, 2024

The free-to-play game The Elder Scrolls: Castles is out now on iOS and Android — build the castle of your dreams

The Elder Scrolls: Castles is a free-to-play game from Bethesda where players can build their own castle and manage a dynasty. Players will face classic enemies from The Elder Scrolls universe and can earn rewards through battles. The game is available for download on iOS and Android devices with in-app purchases.

Winsage

July 19, 2024

Make your Windows PC run cooler and more energy efficient with this free app

Outbyte has launched the Camomile app, which optimizes CPU performance to reduce power consumption by up to 34 percent on Windows 10 and 11 systems. The app adjusts CPU voltage and frequency to prevent power spikes, leading to improved energy efficiency, extended battery life, and reduced environmental impact.