feature update Archives

Winsage

July 12, 2025

New Windows 11 build adds self-healing “quick machine recovery” feature

In preview build 27898 of Windows 11, Microsoft introduces features such as the automatic shrinking of Taskbar items when there are many pinned applications, a revamped pop-up system for application permissions, and the ability to add custom words to the speech-to-text dictionary. The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update is expected to launch in the coming months and will share a servicing branch with the 24H2 version, featuring a unique deployment strategy where necessary code is installed but remains inactive until the official update is applied.

Winsage

July 7, 2025

Windows Update Revamp Gives Users More Control Over Security Alerts

Microsoft has rolled out update KB5001716, targeting Windows 10 (versions 21H2, 22H2) and Windows 11 (version 21H2) systems. This update refreshes the Windows Update Service components without introducing new features or security patches. It provides notifications about potential issues that may prevent devices from staying up-to-date, particularly regarding the end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. The update is automatically distributed via Windows Update and is designed to enhance user experience by not disrupting full-screen activities. Users may encounter installation failures associated with error code 0x80070643, which can be resolved by uninstalling the previous version and reinstalling the latest one. The update aims to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11 or consider alternatives before support ends.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

Windows 12 Delayed as Microsoft Prepares Windows 11 25H2 Update

Microsoft has decided not to release a standalone "Windows 12" and will instead focus on the upcoming Windows 11 version 25H2, with a wider rollout expected in the latter half of 2025. The latest Insider Preview build for this version is now available to testers. The 25H2 update will build on the existing 24H2 release, allowing users to transition seamlessly with a small enablement package that mimics a routine update installation. Features from the 24H2 Beta Channel will be included in the 25H2 preview, with enhancements already integrated but disabled until ready. The official support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025, and the timing of the 25H2 launch may encourage users to upgrade. Enterprises will receive a 36-month support cycle, while consumer editions will have 24 months of servicing. Windows Insiders can explore the preview now and provide feedback, with a simple restart required for activation upon official release.

Winsage

June 30, 2025

Microsoft readies Windows 11 users for 25H2

Microsoft has announced that Windows 11 25H2 is forthcoming, serving as a feature enablement update rather than a complete overhaul, sharing the same underlying source code as Windows 11 24H2. Windows Insiders have already gained early access to 25H2, which will introduce additional features activated through an enablement package. Jason Leznek, Principal Project Manager for Windows Servicing and Delivery, noted the seamless compatibility between the two versions, advising a focus on new features rather than a comprehensive review of the operating system. Windows 11 24H2 has faced various issues since its release in 2024, leading to compatibility holds from Microsoft. A significant change in Windows 11 25H2 includes the retirement of the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD), which will be replaced by a black "unexpected restart" screen, while still allowing users to view the stop error code. Microsoft is also introducing quick recovery options for PCs that have trouble restarting and enhancing its security framework by allowing antivirus and endpoint protection vendors to operate in user mode outside of the Windows kernel. The BSoD replacement is expected to roll out on Windows 11 24H2 devices over the summer and will be a key feature of Windows 11 25H2. Additionally, the Windows endpoint security platform will enter private preview in July.

Winsage

June 29, 2025

Don’t be fooled: Microsoft’s claim that Windows 11 PCs are 2.3x faster than Windows 10 ones is based on hardware, not software

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, highlighting that Windows 11 PCs can be up to 2.3 times faster than Windows 10 PCs. This claim is based on testing with Geekbench 6 Multi-Core benchmarks, comparing older Windows 10 PCs with older Intel Core processors to newer Windows 11 systems with the latest Intel Core generations. The performance boost is primarily attributed to advancements in hardware rather than the operating system itself. Microsoft notes that performance will vary significantly by device and other factors.

Winsage

June 28, 2025

Microsoft finally reveals that Windows 11 25H2 will release soon, and Insiders already have it

Microsoft has confirmed the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update, which is currently in testing phases as indicated by the transition of the build name to 25H2 in the Dev version. The update will include enhancements such as improved integration of 1Password for a smoother passwordless login experience. Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel will see their version updated to 25H2 in the system settings. Microsoft plans to maintain its annual feature update schedule for the second half of the year. However, the promotion for the 25H2 update has been more subdued compared to the previous 24H2 release, possibly due to concerns about overwhelming users with new features while they are still waiting for the 24H2 rollout.

Winsage

June 27, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (KB5060838) has been released to the Dev Channel. Key updates include: - Passwordless Improvements: Integration with 1Password for passkey management, allowing users to sign in using Windows Hello after enabling the plugin credential manager. - Versioning Update: The build updates the versioning to 25H2, marking it as this year's annual feature update. - Voice Access: Support for Japanese is temporarily disabled due to bugs. - Settings Update: The new default browser will be pinned to the Taskbar and Start menu unless opted out. - File Explorer Fixes: Issues causing crashes and thumbnail disappearances have been resolved. - Start Menu Fixes: Duplicate entries and animation inconsistencies have been corrected. - Input Fixes: A significant crash affecting typing capabilities has been addressed. - General Fixes: Resolved an issue with the boot sound and fixed a memory leak related to the lock screen slideshow. - Known Issues: Users may experience rollback errors during updates, touch navigation issues in the Start menu, and bugs with Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth. - Reminders: Updates are rolled out gradually, and features may evolve or be removed based on feedback.

Winsage

May 13, 2025

Windows 11 upgrade block lifted after Safe Exam Browser fix

Microsoft has lifted an upgrade block that prevented certain users of the Safe Exam Browser from installing the Windows 11 2024 Update due to compatibility concerns. The block was initially implemented in September to protect users from issues with Safe Exam Browser version 3.7 or earlier. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Safe Exam Browser version 3.8 or later before proceeding with the Windows 11 24H2 update. If users still encounter the safeguard hold after 48 hours of updating, they should contact Safe Exam Browser Support. The Windows 11 24H2 feature update is now available for all compatible PCs, except those under safeguard holds. Microsoft has resolved issues that previously blocked the update for some users and has removed other compatibility holds for specific devices and applications. However, some upgrade blocks remain due to incompatible hardware and software. Windows 11 24H2 began its rollout in May 2024 for enterprise testing, with a broader release in October.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update on some new PCs

Microsoft has informed Windows 10 users that their devices are not eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11 due to system requirements and recommends transitioning to a new PC with Windows 11. A new compatibility issue has arisen with the sprotect.sys driver, causing system freezes and errors on Windows 11 version 24H2, leading Microsoft to impose a compatibility hold on affected devices. This hold prevents these devices from being prompted to install Windows 11, version 24H2. Users with impacted devices will see a notification on the Windows Update page indicating no immediate action is required. IT administrators can monitor the issue using safeguard ID 56318982. Microsoft advises against forcing the update if the system is incompatible and is working with SenseShield Technology Co. to resolve the issue.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Price drop alert: Get Windows 11 Pro for life for just £11.51

Microsoft has released a significant update for Windows 11 Pro in 2024, featuring enhancements in Copilot AI, platform speed, and phone integrations. Currently, a lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro is available for £11.51, reduced from £153.03, representing a 92% discount, and allows installation on two PCs. The update includes a modern design and a fully integrated Copilot, an AI assistant based on GPT-4, which can answer queries and assist with tasks. Windows 11 Pro offers unique features such as BitLocker device encryption, remote desktop access, Azure AD for secure management, and Hyper-V for running virtual machines.