feature Archives

Winsage

March 12, 2026

After decades with Linux, I tried to use Windows 11 – and found 9 glaring issues

Jack Wallen transitioned from Linux to Windows 11 for a week and encountered several frustrations: 1. Creating a local account was cumbersome compared to Linux. 2. Google passkeys did not work without enabling the "Hello" service. 3. The Mailbird email client demanded payment after installation, locking him out of other applications. 4. The natural scrolling feature reverted to its default setting despite attempts to disable it. 5. Advertisements appeared within the Windows 11 interface. 6. The default save location for files was OneDrive, which he had not logged into. 7. Windows 11 used excessive resources, causing his laptop to run hot. 8. Virus and Threat Protection settings were not enabled by default. 9. The laptop screen failed to enter hibernation or turn off automatically, risking battery drain.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

5 reasons why Windows 11 Pro is so much better than Windows 10

Windows 11 Pro is actively promoted by Microsoft as the future operating system, with Windows 10 reaching its end of support in October 2025, meaning no more free security updates or technical assistance. Windows 11 Pro offers enhanced built-in security features, including mandatory TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, making it a more secure choice. It includes useful features like BitLocker for drive encryption, Remote Desktop support, Group Policy controls, and Hyper-V for creating virtual machines. Windows 11 Pro also enhances productivity with features like Snap Layouts and File Explorer tabs for better organization and navigation.

AppWizard

March 12, 2026

Microsoft confirms ‘Xbox Mode’ rollout for Windows 11 and reveals more plans for PC-console hybrid Project Helix

Microsoft will launch 'Xbox Mode,' a reimagined version of the Xbox Full Screen Experience, on Windows 11 next month. Xbox Mode is designed to optimize gaming performance by reducing resource-intensive background tasks and will enhance navigation for controller users. Project Helix, a PC-console hybrid, is set to be accessible to developers in 2027 and will feature a custom System on Chip (SoC) developed in collaboration with AMD, promising improved ray tracing performance. AMD's new FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) upscaler, named 'Diamond,' will be optimized for Project Helix and integrated into the Game Development Kit (GDK). Xbox Mode will be available in April, while highly anticipated titles like GTA 6 may not release until 2028.

BetaBeacon

March 12, 2026

Google Play Is Taking PC Seriously: More Games, Free Trials, Cross-Buy for Android

Google Play Games for PC has received major updates, allowing users to purchase select games once and play them on both their PC and Android devices. The platform plans to add more paid games in the future, with new titles like Low-Budget Repairs and Moonlight Peaks set to launch soon. Google will introduce a new tab to help users find PC-friendly titles and offer free trials for select games. The company aims to provide a seamless gaming experience across different devices and establish itself as a major player in the PC gaming market.

BetaBeacon

March 12, 2026

Google just made Android gaming much more immersive – free update is a literal game-changer

Google Play Games Sidekick is now available in over 90 games, offering instant access to a variety of game features such as device controls, streaming, AI-powered gaming tips, and capture and sharing options.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

Microsoft Introduces Phishing-Resistant Windows Sign-Ins With Entra Passkeys

Microsoft will introduce phishing-resistant passwordless authentication through passkeys for Windows devices, integrated with Microsoft Entra. This feature is expected to enter public preview between mid-March and late April 2026 for global tenants, while government cloud environments will receive the update from mid-April to mid-May. Users can access Entra-protected resources using device-bound passkeys stored securely within Windows Hello, allowing authentication through biometric or local verification methods. This update expands passwordless authentication to unmanaged or personal Windows devices. Passkeys utilize public-key cryptography, enhancing security by storing a private key on the device and registering a matching public key with the service. Each passkey is uniquely associated with a specific device and cannot be exported or synchronized. Organizations must enable the Passkeys (FIDO2) authentication method in Entra for the preview. This initiative is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to eliminate passwords, responding to rising cybersecurity concerns related to password-based authentication.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

Xbox Mode officially comes to Windows PCs starting next month

Microsoft will begin rolling out 'Xbox Mode' on Windows 11 next month, starting in select markets. This feature aims to create a user-friendly interface that allows seamless transitions between productivity and gaming. It provides a full-screen experience optimized for controllers while maintaining the openness of the Windows platform. The initial version of Xbox Mode was introduced with the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds and received mixed feedback. Additionally, Microsoft is reviving its games preservation program.

BetaBeacon

March 12, 2026

Google Play Games Expands to Windows, Brings Android Titles to PC With Cross-Buy Features

- A new Windows tab in the Play Store will showcase titles optimized for desktop play - Premium games such as "Moonlight Peaks," "Sledding Game," and "Potion Craft" will launch in 2026 - Cross-buy functionality allows players to purchase a game once and play it on multiple platforms - Google Play is making a strategic move to unify Android and Windows gaming and expand premium offerings

Winsage

March 12, 2026

How to Block Windows Upgrade for Good

Recent reports indicate concerns among users about automatic upgrades of Windows PCs, particularly for those who prefer to stay on Windows 10 or a specific feature update. Despite these fears, there is no evidence that Microsoft upgrades PCs without user consent; many users may unintentionally accept upgrade prompts or face bugs that trigger updates. Microsoft's upgrade approach can feel aggressive, especially when feature updates are bundled with regular updates. If the option to receive the latest updates is enabled, automatic installations may occur, particularly when a version reaches its end of service. Users can prevent unwanted upgrades through several methods: 1. Group Policy Editor: For Windows Pro or Enterprise users, they can lock in a specific feature update by accessing the Group Policy Editor and setting the desired OS edition and feature update version. 2. Windows Registry: Windows Home users can modify the Windows Registry to restrict upgrades. This involves creating specific DWORD and String Values to set the target OS edition and feature update version. 3. InControl App: A user-friendly application that allows users to freeze their current OS edition and feature update version, preventing upgrades while still allowing monthly updates. These methods enable users to maintain control over their operating systems and avoid unexpected upgrades.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

Microsoft adding Xbox mode to Windows 11

Organizations using consumer-grade PCs or allowing employees to bring their own devices now face concerns due to the introduction of a virtual Xbox within Windows 11, announced by Microsoft. This initiative aims to create a seamless gaming experience across devices, allowing developers to reach a larger audience while reducing development costs. Microsoft has begun merging Xbox and PC experiences with devices like ASUS’s ROG Ally, a handheld PC that can switch between Windows and gaming operations. In April, Xbox mode will roll out to select markets on all Windows 11 PC form factors, offering a controller-optimized interface. However, it may not be included in the Windows Professional edition, which is preferred by businesses. Features may still enter organizations through bring-your-own-device policies or consumer-grade equipment. The announcements are part of "Project Helix," a new gaming platform designed to enhance Xbox console and PC game play, featuring a custom System on Chip from AMD, with alpha versions expected to be shipped to developers by 2027. This timeline may impact revenue opportunities for AMD, as it suggests no new console will be available for the holiday season of 2026.