feature Archives

Winsage

April 26, 2026

I explain how to use this simple Windows 11 tool to get automatic app updates forever

Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission when users buy through links in their articles. Windows 11 users often seek efficient application management, leading to the use of the Windows Package Manager (winget). The command "winget upgrade --all" requires user initiative, while the Microsoft Store only updates Store apps. This gap led to the development of Winget-AutoUpdate (WAU), which simplifies the update process. Initially designed for users familiar with scripts, WAU now includes a graphical user interface (GUI) that makes it more accessible. The GUI allows users to toggle automatic updates, set schedules, and manage allowlists and blocklists. Users can create "excludedapps.txt" and "includedapps.txt" files for managing updates. WAU is particularly useful for those who frequently install applications via winget and want to automate updates. Once configured, WAU runs in the background, providing timely notifications without manual intervention. It is a free solution that addresses update management challenges for winget users on Windows 11, transforming manual updates into an automated process.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Microsoft Looks Ready To Stop Forcing Windows Updates At The Worst Time

Microsoft announced a new feature for Windows 11 on April 24, 2026, allowing users to select a pause date for updates, extending up to 35 days, which can be reset as needed. This update experience aims to give users more control over when updates occur, addressing frustrations related to the timing of updates. Additionally, the power menu will include options for "Update and restart" and "Update and shut down" when an update is pending. The new model is currently in testing, and it is unclear when it will be available to all Windows 11 users or if it will apply uniformly across all device categories and update types.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

Lord of the Rings Online now lets you follow in Bilbo’s hairy footsteps by buying up property and retiring to an iconic city

Lord of the Rings Online will introduce player housing in Rivendell on April 30 at noon Eastern Time. Players on 64-bit servers will compete to secure homes, with a system in place to open additional neighborhoods as needed. Directions to the Rivendell Steadings include walking southwest from the Rivendell stables or accessing it via the Bree-town Broker's Office. This update coincides with the game's 19th anniversary, and players can currently participate in new missions at the Prancing Pony until May 12, with rewards available.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Windows 11 users are taking it upon themselves to debloat the OS, because Microsoft isn’t trying hard enough

Windows 11 has become the preferred operating system for many users after the discontinuation of Windows 10, though its adoption has faced challenges due to strict hardware requirements and design inconsistencies. The customization landscape for Windows 11 is growing, largely driven by third-party developers responding to perceived shortcomings in Microsoft's offerings. Debloater applications, which remove unnecessary pre-installed apps, have gained popularity, with tools like Winhance being noted for their user-friendliness. Users are seeking straightforward scripts and custom Windows ISOs to simplify their experience, with recommendations including AtlasOS, FoxOS, ReviOS, and GGOS. AtlasOS is highlighted as a lightweight modification that aims to enhance performance and privacy by eliminating telemetry and unnecessary background processes. Users can expect improved CPU performance and higher framerates in games, but there are risks associated with using third-party modifications, such as potential security vulnerabilities and missing feature updates. Microsoft has made it easier to bypass mandatory updates during setup, while continuing to refine Windows 11 with new features. The ongoing evolution of Windows 11 customization raises questions about whether these enhancements will reduce the appeal of custom ISOs like AtlasOS.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Go straight to sell! Windows second-chance setup hawks Microsoft services at IT’s expense

Months after acquiring a laptop, users may encounter a prompt from Windows 11 stating, “You’re almost done setting up your PC.” This leads to a series of inquiries about adopting Microsoft’s recommended browser settings, linking a phone for SMS notifications, and acknowledging Office installation. Users may feel compelled to click through these prompts, which can include advertisements, such as for Xbox Game Pass Premium at .99 per month. This series of prompts is referred to as the Second Chance Out of Box Experience (SCOOBE), which can resurface due to Windows updates and may lead to unnecessary support calls and potential unauthorized subscriptions in organizational settings. Users can disable SCOOBE by adjusting settings in Windows or Group Policy, but ongoing vigilance is required due to the evolving nature of Microsoft’s software.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

I’ve used Pixel Weather for 2 years — here’s why I’m ditching it for Gradient Weather

Google's Pixel Weather app was launched with the Pixel 9 series in 2024 and is known for its clean interface and robust pollen tracking. However, the author has shifted their preference to Gradient Weather, an Android weather app that aggregates data from multiple sources for improved accuracy. Gradient Weather features an intuitive bar graph for hourly forecasts, user-friendly color-coded alerts, and additional functionalities like a sunrise and sunset widget, moon phases, and a compass. Its map functionality includes filters for various weather conditions and allows users to report real-time weather phenomena. The app offers extensive notification customization and aesthetic options, including theme modifications and widget arrangements. While Pixel Weather has advantages such as a pollen tracker, Gradient Weather's premium features and rapid development make it a compelling choice for Android users.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

Train Sim World 6 and a bunch of DLCs are 89% off in this new Humble Bundle

Train Sim World 6 was released in mid-2025 and has received significant updates, including new downloadable content (DLC). The game features new tracks such as the Exeter-to-Plymouth and Paignton Riviera Line in Devon, enhanced graphics that approach photo-realism, and additional routes like the US Morristown line and a revamped Bahnstrecke Leipzig-to-Dresden. It includes train announcements to improve immersion. The Train Sim World 6 First Class Ticket Bundle offers the base game and seven DLCs at an 89% discount, with a 50% discount on premium editions. Notable DLCs include the Flying Scotsman steam train and a remastered Great Western Express route. The bundle is available until May 8 for £13.40.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Microsoft Replaces Copilot in Windows 11 Notepad With Writing Tools Update

Microsoft has updated the Notepad application in Windows 11, renaming the Copilot feature to "Writing tools." The Copilot button has been removed and replaced with a small pen icon that accesses the Writing tools menu. This update is being gradually rolled out to users, aiming to enhance the interface while retaining existing AI capabilities for writing tasks.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

Secret Mode removed Denuvo from STAR WARS: Galactic Racer

Secret Mode has removed Denuvo from STAR WARS: Galactic Racer ahead of its official launch. The game features high-octane races in the Outer Rim, allowing players to pilot various repulsorcraft and engage in a solo story-driven campaign as well as PvP multiplayer races. The minimum PC requirements for the game are an Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600, 12GB of RAM, Nvidia RTX 2060 or equivalent, and 50GB of free disk space. A specific release date has not been announced, but the game is expected to launch later this year.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Microsoft rolls out revamped Windows Insider Program

Microsoft is overhauling its Windows Insider Program to enhance the reliability of Windows 11 and improve user feedback responsiveness. The program will now consist of two channels: Experimental, which replaces the Dev and Canary channels for testing experimental features, and Beta, which will provide immediate access to all features listed in the release notes without gradual rollouts. The transition will occur in phases, starting with users in the Dev Channel moving to Experimental. Users from the Canary Channel will also be transitioned to specific versions of the Experimental channel. Beta Channel users will experience a new Beta setup, with minor adjustments possible. Microsoft is updating build details, with the latest builds including Build 26220.8283 for Beta, Build 26300.8289 for Experimental, Build 28020.1873 for Experimental 26H1, and Build 29576.1000 for Experimental Future Platforms. Additionally, a new Windows Update experience will allow users to pause updates and avoid unexpected reboots.