environmental sustainability Archives

Winsage

April 8, 2026

Google shares simple fix for millions of Windows 10 users

Google, in collaboration with refurbished electronics retailer Back Market, is offering a USB memory stick that allows users to install ChromeOS Flex for free, providing an alternative to Windows 10 and addressing the end of support for the operating system. The ChromeOS Flex USB Kit simplifies the installation process and aims to extend the lifespan of aging PCs, potentially preventing millions of functioning devices from being discarded. As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft ceased all support for Windows 10, leaving vulnerabilities unaddressed. Approximately one-third of Windows devices still run on Windows 10, and users can opt for an additional year of updates at a cost of around £22. ChromeOS Flex has lower system requirements than Windows 11 but lacks features like Android app installation. It helps ensure security updates for existing devices and contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing electronic waste and carbon emissions associated with new device manufacturing. The physical kit is priced at around €3 and is reusable.

AppWizard

April 3, 2026

IAEA Launches Global Student Challenge to Design Sustainable Uranium Mines Using Minecraft

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has launched a global competition for university students to design and simulate sustainable uranium mining operations using the Minecraft Education platform. Teams of two to four members must create a comprehensive mining system that includes ore extraction and yellowcake production, incorporating advanced technologies such as robotics, smart sensors, and optimized processes. Submissions are due by 1 July 2026, and the winning team will present their project at the International Conference on Fuel Supply Chain for Sustainable Nuclear Power Development in Vienna, Austria, from 13–15 October 2026. Participants must submit an entry form, a university enrollment confirmation letter, a 5–7 minute video demonstrating their mining concept, and a sustainability commitment statement. The competition aims to inspire students to pursue careers in uranium exploration and mining amid rising global demand for nuclear energy. Modern uranium mining is increasingly adopting technologies to enhance safety and minimize environmental impact, with a focus on efficiency and sustainability.

Winsage

August 24, 2025

Sorry, Bill Gates: I haven’t used Windows for years, and I don’t miss it one bit

The author transitioned from Windows to Linux nearly two decades ago, prompted by frustrations with Windows Vista. They appreciate Linux for its diverse distributions catering to various user needs, with user-friendly options like Ubuntu and Linux Mint for beginners and more customizable options like Arch Linux for experienced users. The author enjoys experimenting with different distros, particularly Fedora and Arch Linux. Gaming on Linux has improved significantly, with Valve's Proton enabling seamless play of Windows games, including titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and X4: Foundations. The installation process for Linux is simpler and less intrusive than Windows, which requires a Microsoft account and involves privacy-related choices. Linux also supports older hardware better than Windows and Apple, promoting sustainability. The author does not miss Windows and views Linux as the superior operating system.

Winsage

July 10, 2025

Breathing new Life into Old Devices with Windows 11 on Amazon WorkSpaces

The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 2025, prompting businesses to consider alternatives like desktop-as-a-service (DaaS) solutions, such as Amazon WorkSpaces, due to many devices being incompatible with Windows 11. Organizations are repurposing older devices as clients for DaaS desktops to reduce costs and promote sustainability. Amazon WorkSpaces offers secure, cloud-based virtual desktops, enhancing security and business continuity while facilitating remote work. It has been recognized as a leading DaaS provider by Gartner. AWS announced compatibility with ChromeOS Flex in March 2025, making it suitable for repurposing older laptops. ChromeOS Flex requires minimal hardware specifications and simplifies IT management. Testing showed that a repurposed Dell E7440 laptop could effectively connect to a Windows 11 WorkSpaces desktop. The integration of Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise on Amazon WorkSpaces allows users to utilize existing licenses at no extra cost. Amazon WorkSpaces operates on a pay-as-you-go model, supporting sustainability and cost savings while providing secure access to virtual desktops.

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.