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Microsoft Ends Windows Server 2008 Support on January 13, 2026
Winsage
January 16, 2026

Microsoft Ends Windows Server 2008 Support on January 13, 2026

Microsoft has officially ceased all support for Windows Server 2008 as of January 13, 2026, including paid extended security updates. This end-of-life scenario poses significant security risks for organizations still using the outdated operating system, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. The transition away from Windows Server 2008 requires careful planning, as many organizations face challenges in migrating legacy applications to modern systems. The lack of ongoing patches means that any new vulnerabilities will remain unaddressed, potentially leading to data breaches and compliance failures, particularly in regulated sectors like healthcare and finance. Microsoft has encouraged migration to Azure, offering incentives for early adopters, but the transition can be complex and costly. The end of support also affects global supply chains and compatibility with newer software applications. Organizations are advised to conduct audits of their software portfolios and consider hybrid environments to enhance flexibility and security.
Speed Up Your Windows 11 Launch Time in a Snap. Here's How to Do It
Winsage
January 15, 2026

Speed Up Your Windows 11 Launch Time in a Snap. Here’s How to Do It

The delay in booting up a Windows 11 laptop can be caused by multiple applications that automatically launch at startup, which can hinder system performance. Common applications that may launch include antivirus programs, Microsoft OneDrive, Slack, gaming applications, backup tools, and webcam software. Users can manage these startup applications through three methods: Task Manager, Settings, or File Explorer. In Task Manager, users can view and disable startup applications by right-clicking on entries in the Startup apps menu. The impact of each application on startup time is categorized as high, medium, low, none, or not measured. In the Settings app, users can navigate to Apps and then Startup to toggle off applications they do not want to launch automatically. File Explorer can also be used to manage startup applications by accessing the shell:appsfolder and shell:startup or shell:common startup commands to view and modify the applications set to launch at sign-in. Users are advised to disable applications they rarely use while keeping essential security software enabled. Third-party startup managers like Autoruns and Startup Delayer can provide additional insights into startup applications. Similar management methods apply to previous Windows versions.
How to get started with PowerToys Command Palette on Windows 11 — an answer to macOS Spotlight for Windows PCs
Winsage
January 8, 2026

How to get started with PowerToys Command Palette on Windows 11 — an answer to macOS Spotlight for Windows PCs

The Command Palette is a feature in PowerToys for Windows 11 that allows advanced users to access applications, settings, and system tools quickly, similar to macOS Spotlight. To install it, users must install PowerToys via Command Prompt or the Microsoft Store. Configuration involves enabling the Command Palette, customizing activation shortcuts, and adjusting display settings. Users can search for applications, settings, and files, perform calculations, access clipboard history, and execute system commands. Keyboard modifiers enhance functionality, and users can create custom search shortcuts with community plugins. The Command Palette also includes a Registry browser extension for navigating the Windows Registry.
5 Apps That Can Breathe New Life Into Your Old Windows PC
Winsage
January 7, 2026

5 Apps That Can Breathe New Life Into Your Old Windows PC

Windows PCs can become slow due to digital clutter from uninstalled applications, unused registry entries, and background processes. This software bloat can often be optimized using lightweight, free tools instead of upgrading hardware. Microsoft PC Manager is a user-friendly utility that enhances performance by clearing temporary files and freeing up RAM, featuring sections for System Protection, Storage Management, and App Management. The Everything app provides rapid file search results by reading the Master File Table, conserving system resources and allowing customization of search preferences. Chris Titus Tech's Windows Utility is a powerful debloater tool that can remove telemetry and bloatware, with options for tweaking system settings to improve performance, though caution is advised to avoid instability. The Thorium Browser is a lightweight alternative to resource-intensive browsers, built on the Chromium framework, providing speed and efficiency while maintaining compatibility with older hardware. Bulk Crap Uninstaller offers a thorough uninstallation process, removing all traces of software and allowing for bulk uninstalls, with features like color-coded categorization and the option to create restore points.
Why I think a desktop-class Chrome browser for Android would change the whole game
BetaBeacon
January 1, 2026

Why I think a desktop-class Chrome browser for Android would change the whole game

The Chrome browser is considered the center of all activities on Chromebooks, even though ChromeOS has evolved beyond just being a browser. The lack of a desktop-class version of Chrome for Android hinders the usability of Android Desktop and DeX for productivity. Google is expected to release a desktop-class version of Chrome for Android in 2026, which could potentially make phones powerful desktop replacements.
Adidas Just Turned Minecraft Creepers Into $40 Holiday Sneakers
AppWizard
December 30, 2025

Adidas Just Turned Minecraft Creepers Into $40 Holiday Sneakers

Adidas has launched a holiday collection in collaboration with Minecraft, featuring footwear inspired by the game. The collection includes the Samba XLG, Handball Spezial, Campus 00s, Superstar II, and Adilette slides, each themed around specific Minecraft elements and characters. The Samba XLG is inspired by the Creeper, while the Handball Spezial reflects the Ghast. The Campus 00s showcases the Eye of Ender, and the Superstar II is designed after the Ender Dragon. The Adilette slides display the Creeper's face. The packaging resembles Minecraft storage chests, enhancing the unboxing experience. The collection is exclusively available in youth and children’s sizes, with prices ranging from forty to ninety-five dollars. It aims to resonate with Minecraft's younger audience while also appealing to broader aesthetic tastes. The collection includes complementary apparel pieces and is available through the Adidas webstore.
Google’s Android Automotive Adds PIN-Lock for App Privacy
AppWizard
December 30, 2025

Google’s Android Automotive Adds PIN-Lock for App Privacy

Google has introduced the Sensitive App Protection feature in Android Automotive, allowing users to lock individual applications with a PIN to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information in shared vehicles. This feature aims to enhance privacy amidst the rise of ride-sharing and car-sharing services, addressing concerns about unauthorized app usage by valets and other users. Sensitive App Protection is applicable to family cars and rental vehicles, ensuring that protected apps remain inaccessible without the PIN, even in restricted modes. The feature is designed to improve user privacy in connected cars, coinciding with increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding data handling. User adoption will depend on awareness and ease of use, with early feedback being generally positive. Critics note that while PIN-locking is beneficial, it does not fully address vulnerabilities related to data transmission over unsecured networks. Google plans to transition to the Gemini AI platform, which may enhance security features further. Regulatory bodies are monitoring these developments closely, and ethical considerations regarding access to privacy features for different user demographics are being discussed.
Windows on Arm had another good year
Winsage
December 29, 2025

Windows on Arm had another good year

The tech landscape is expected to see significant advancements in chips and software by 2026, particularly with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series enhancing Arm-based Windows laptops. The Snapdragon X chips improved performance and battery life, making Windows on Arm laptops more viable, especially in Microsoft’s Surface Laptop and Surface Pro lines. However, challenges with app compatibility persisted, limiting users to simplified versions of software like Adobe Lightroom. In 2025, software enhancements allowed more creative applications to run natively or through improved emulation, including Adobe Premiere Pro and a functioning version of Lightroom Classic on lower-end Snapdragon X Plus chips. Gaming options improved with advancements in emulator technology, and compatibility for Epic's Easy Anti-Cheat was established. The Xbox game launcher expanded to support local installations on Arm devices. Despite the growing appeal of Windows on Arm laptops, traditional x86 options remain dominant for gaming. The first generation of Snapdragon X chips set new benchmarks for battery life, but competition from Intel’s Lunar Lake and AMD’s Strix Point chips is emerging. Nvidia is rumored to be developing an Arm-based chip for Alienware laptops, indicating a competitive landscape. The gap between x86 and Arm Windows laptops is narrowing, with Arm laptops becoming more accessible, though x86 systems are likely to remain preferred for gamers. Microsoft’s evolution of Windows into an “agentic OS” raises questions about the future of Windows laptops.
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