feature enhancements Archives

Winsage

January 5, 2026

Microsoft Ends Windows 11 SE Support in 2026 Amid Low Adoption

Microsoft will conclude support for Windows 11 SE in 2026, ceasing security updates and feature enhancements after October 2026. Launched in late 2021 for K-8 classrooms, Windows 11 SE struggled with adoption due to hardware limitations and competition from alternatives like Google’s Chrome OS. The final feature release for SE will be Windows 11 version 24H2. Schools will face challenges in transitioning to new systems, as devices running SE may become vulnerable to cyber threats without ongoing support. Microsoft is shifting its focus to integrating educational tools into its main operating system rather than maintaining a separate edition. The end of support for Windows 11 SE may accelerate hardware refresh cycles in schools, posing financial burdens on underfunded districts.

Winsage

December 23, 2025

The (slow) end for Windows 10

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft retired Windows 10, ending its support for security updates, bug patches, and technical assistance. Users can still operate Windows 10, but the lack of updates raises security concerns, making outdated systems targets for cybercriminals. Businesses using Windows 10 may face compliance risks and reliability issues as new applications and hardware become incompatible. Users with compatible hardware can upgrade to Windows 11, while those unable to upgrade can access Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for a fee, except in the EU where ESUs are free. Alternatives include migrating to Windows 365 Business or installing ChromeOS Flex or Linux on older PCs. Investing in new machines with Windows 11 is recommended for better security and performance.

Winsage

November 25, 2025

Microsoft to remove WINS support after Windows Server 2025

Microsoft will remove the Windows Internet Name Service (WINS) from all future Windows Server releases after November 2034. WINS was officially deprecated with Windows Server 2022 in August 2021, and Windows Server 2025 will be the last version to support it. Standard support for WINS will continue until November 2034. Organizations are encouraged to migrate to DNS-based name resolution solutions before this deadline. The removal will include the WINS server role, management console snap-in, automation APIs, and related interfaces. Microsoft recommends auditing services dependent on NetBIOS name resolution and migrating to DNS solutions. Static host files are not advised as a workaround. Organizations should begin migration planning to avoid operational disruptions.

Winsage

November 11, 2025

5 third-party tweaks Microsoft needs to implement into Windows 11 natively

Windows 11 has evolved since its launch, but many users feel it lacks certain features. Third-party enhancements can improve the operating system. StartAllBack allows users to customize the Start menu and taskbar, resize icons, re-enable classic context menus, and restore quick access to the Control Panel. PowerToys is a collection of utilities from Microsoft that enhances Windows 11 with tools like PowerRename, a Color Picker, and Keyboard Manager, but these are not included by default. EarTrumpet simplifies audio management, allowing users to switch devices and adjust levels more easily than the default sound settings. Everything (Voidtools) offers a fast alternative to Windows Search by indexing files quickly and providing real-time results. OneCommander modernizes file management with a dual-pane interface, keyboard shortcuts, and cloud service integration. Many of these enhancements could benefit a wider audience if made available for users to enable as needed, rather than being pre-installed.

Winsage

November 10, 2025

UK govt spent £312M upgrading to Windows 10 before support ended

Windows 10 will reach the end of its lifecycle on October 14, 2025. Microsoft is focusing on Windows 11, which is receiving regular feature enhancements and security updates. The UK's Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs is investing significantly in upgrading its systems to Windows 11, reflecting a trend among organizations responding to Windows 10's end-of-life status. Upgrading to Windows 11 offers enhanced security features, an improved user experience, and long-term support. Organizations are encouraged to consider the advantages of transitioning to Windows 11 as the deadline for Windows 10 support approaches.

AppWizard

October 28, 2025

Arattai Rising: Can India’s Homegrown Messenger Challenge WhatsApp’s Throne?

Arattai, a messaging app in India, gained significant traction in September and October 2025, reaching over 5 million downloads on certain days and surpassing established platforms like Telegram and Snapchat. Its rise was supported by media attention, endorsements from government officials, and alignment with Prime Minister Modi's Swadeshi initiative. Union Home Minister Amit Shah's switch to Zoho email led to a 100-fold increase in Arattai's traffic within three days. The app offers end-to-end encryption for voice and video calls but lacks full encryption for text messages by default. It has a “secret chat” feature and plans to implement comprehensive encryption. User data is stored in Indian data centers, and the app aims to maintain a privacy-focused approach without relying on public cloud providers. Arattai faces challenges in competing with WhatsApp, which has over 500 million users and offers extensive features such as UPI payments and default encryption. For long-term success, Arattai needs to standardize encryption, enhance its infrastructure, and build an ecosystem with integrated payment solutions and business tools. Overcoming user inertia from WhatsApp, establishing a strong brand identity, and navigating regulatory scrutiny are also critical for its growth.

Winsage

October 15, 2025

12 features coming during first half of October on Windows 11 Insiders

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 in October 2025 through the Windows Insider Program, releasing several notable features and improvements. Key updates include: 1. An updated Settings app with improved AI agent integration, featuring a "Recommended settings" card and enhanced search results. 2. The Drag Tray now supports dragging and dropping multiple files. 3. Administrator Protection is accessible again in the Windows Security app. 4. The "Run" command dialog box is being updated for dark mode support. 5. Click to Do feature enhancements allow for more precise object selection within images. 6. Windows Hello now supports external fingerprint sensors. 7. Users can configure the user folder name during the Out-of-box Experience (OOBE) using Command Prompt. 8. File Explorer receives dark mode improvements across various dialogs. 9. A redesigned Start menu in the Canary Channel combines "All," "Pinned," and "Recommended" sections into a scrollable interface. 10. A new setting allows users to adjust the position of on-screen hardware indicators. 11. Updates to keyboard shortcuts facilitate the insertion of En dashes and Em dashes. 12. The Windows Share interface now includes an option for pinning favorite apps.

Winsage

October 13, 2025

Microsoft Fixes Long-standing Windows 11 ‘Update and Shut down’ Bug

Microsoft has resolved the "update and shut down" bug in Windows 11 with the release of Build 26220.6760 on September 29, 2025. This bug caused systems to reboot automatically instead of shutting down when users selected the "update and shut down" option. The fix ensures that pending updates no longer trigger automatic restarts during a shutdown request. Windows Insiders in the Dev or Beta channels can access this fix, while non-Insider users are advised to wait for the stable release.

Winsage

October 8, 2025

Microsoft issues urgent warning to millions of Windows 10 users

Microsoft will cease updates for Windows 10 on October 14, leaving users vulnerable to cyber threats. Over 40 percent of Windows users still use Windows 10, with around 5 million in the UK alone. A survey indicates that about one-quarter of these users plan to continue using Windows 10 after the support deadline. Users may face increased risks from malware, performance issues, and compatibility challenges with applications. Upgrading to Windows 11 is free if the hardware requirements are met. For those unable to upgrade, Microsoft offers the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which concludes on October 13 of the following year.

Winsage

September 29, 2025

Windows 10 support ends in October 2025: How to prepare for the upgrade

Microsoft will phase out Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ending regular security updates, feature enhancements, and technical support. Existing Windows 10 PCs will still function but may be vulnerable to malware and compatibility issues. Microsoft 365 applications will receive security updates until October 2028 and feature updates until August 2026. Microsoft Defender Antivirus will also continue to receive updates through 2028. An Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available for individual users and organizations, with pricing options and free access through Windows Backup or Microsoft Rewards points. Users are encouraged to check their PC's compatibility with Windows 11, which offers enhanced features and security. Windows 365 provides a cloud-based solution for streaming Windows 11 on older devices, with a discount for businesses on the first year of service.