firmware updates Archives

Winsage

January 13, 2026

New Windows updates replace expiring Secure Boot certificates

Microsoft is enhancing security for Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 users by automatically replacing expiring Secure Boot certificates on eligible devices. Secure Boot protects against malicious software by ensuring only trusted bootloaders are executed during startup. Many Secure Boot certificates are set to expire starting in June 2026, which could jeopardize secure booting capabilities if not updated. The update includes a mechanism to identify devices eligible for automatic receipt of new Secure Boot certificates. IT administrators are advised to install the new certificates to maintain Secure Boot functionality and prevent loss of security updates. Organizations can also deploy Secure Boot certificates through various methods. IT administrators should inventory their devices, verify Secure Boot status, and apply necessary firmware updates before installing Microsoft's certificate updates.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

Windows Registry Tweak Unlocks 80% SSD Speed Boost on Consumer PCs

A modification in the Windows Registry can enable a native NVMe driver, potentially doubling the performance of solid-state drives (SSDs) by enhancing random read and write speeds by up to 80%. This driver is typically reserved for enterprise environments and is not officially available for consumer versions of Windows 11. The modification carries risks, including the possibility of rendering a system unbootable and disrupting features like BitLocker encryption. Early adopters have reported mixed results, with some experiencing significant performance improvements while others face stability issues. The tweak highlights the disparity between consumer and enterprise hardware capabilities and reflects ongoing discussions within the tech community about optimizing SSD performance.

BetaBeacon

November 14, 2025

Android gaming handhelds are great, but there’s an ugly side to the space I’m tired of ignoring. Here’s a glimpse at my journey through the frustrating world of delayed Android gaming handhelds and what it reveals about one of the market’s biggest players

AYANEO is experiencing quality control issues, poor build quality, and shipping delays due to trying to do too much too fast.

Winsage

November 1, 2025

Extending Bluetooth® LE Audio on Windows 11 with shared audio (preview)

Today, the shared audio (preview) feature has been rolled out in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26220.7051) for Dev and Beta Channels, allowing users to share audio between two Bluetooth audio devices simultaneously. This feature utilizes Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology and is currently available on select Copilot+ PCs, with plans to expand support to more devices in the future. Users can share audio by connecting two compatible Bluetooth LE Audio accessories to their Windows 11 PC and accessing the “Shared audio (preview)” tile in quick settings. Compatible devices include specific Surface Laptop and Surface Pro models, as well as Samsung Galaxy Book models. Compatible Bluetooth LE Audio accessories include Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Galaxy Buds3, Galaxy Buds3 Pro, Sony WH-1000XM6, and recent hearing aids from ReSound and Beltone. To use the feature, users must enroll in the Windows Insider Dev or Beta Channels and ensure their OS and drivers are updated. Feedback from users is encouraged to improve the experience.

Winsage

October 6, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 Installs Can Be A Breeze With This Rufus Tool Tip

Rufus continues to function effectively for Windows 11 installations despite concerns regarding the latest 25H2 update. A bug caused an "Assertion failed!" error when creating installation media, but a recent patch has resolved this issue. Users can bypass Windows 11's minimum requirements by selecting the "first bypass on the WUE dialog." The latest Rufus version 4.11 introduces a new option to use "Windows CA 2023" signed bootloaders, addressing the revocation of older Secure Boot certificates. However, users need a "compatible target PC" to avoid security violations, which can prevent installation if firmware updates are not applied. For a fresh installation, users should obtain the latest Windows 11 image directly from Microsoft.

AppWizard

September 22, 2025

Here’s what OnePlus told us about HeyTap’s US shutdown

HeyTap, the company behind the OHealth and HeyMelody applications, announced that US account services will cease on September 28. However, OnePlus stated that all US user accounts and community content will transition to a new, US-hosted platform starting September 26. Users will retain their health data and device settings during this migration, and the core functionalities of the applications will remain intact. OnePlus customer support confirmed that the discontinuation of HeyTap’s US services will not affect the performance of OnePlus applications.

AppWizard

September 22, 2025

How to Stop Android Battery Optimization from Killing Apps

Users and developers managing Android devices must navigate the balance between battery life and app functionality. Android's aggressive power-saving features can mute notifications or suspend background processes, leading to a state known as “sleeping.” To maintain app functionality, users can exempt specific applications from battery optimization through the Settings app under “Battery” or “Apps & notifications.” This feature, introduced in Android 6.0 Marshmallow, allows apps to operate seamlessly in the background. For example, disabling sleep mode for essential apps like WhatsApp can prevent missed notifications. Samsung's Adaptive Battery is particularly aggressive, often pushing unused apps into a “deep sleep” state after a few days, which can disrupt vital functions. Users may need to manually exempt applications in Samsung’s “Device care” settings. Other manufacturers like Huawei and Xiaomi impose similar restrictions, while Google’s stock Android offers more straightforward adjustments. Developers can incorporate foreground services or request permissions like “android.permission.WAKE_LOCK” to keep apps awake, balancing user privacy and battery health. Android’s Doze mode activates during inactivity and organizes background tasks into maintenance windows, but apps can request exemptions. Monitoring battery usage statistics can help identify problematic apps. In enterprise environments, tools like Ivanti’s mobile device management can automate these settings. Combining exemptions with notification settings ensures that apps remain active, although blanket exemptions may lead to faster battery depletion. The dynamic between operating system efficiency and app demands continues to evolve, particularly with Android 14’s enhanced foreground service requirements.

Winsage

September 19, 2025

You can install the new Xbox Full screen experience mode for Windows on handhelds but whether it will work is another question entirely

Microsoft's "Full screen experience" mode for handheld gaming PCs is not officially available but can be accessed through a Preview version of Windows and a third-party tool called ViVeTool. Users must become a Windows Insider and update to version 25H2 to enable the feature. Asus showcased this mode at Gamescom, indicating it will be available with the ROG Xbox Ally launch on October 16, with other devices expected to follow. For Lenovo Legion Go S users, installing Windows 11 25H2 via USB and using ViVeTool is necessary to activate the feature. Initial impressions of the mode are positive, but issues with unresponsive controls and switching between modes were encountered on the Legion Go S.

Tech Optimizer

September 9, 2025

Firmware is the weak link in your PC’s security. Here’s how to stay safe

Firmware is a critical component of a computer's defense architecture and can be targeted by cyberattacks, such as those exploiting vulnerabilities like ThunderSpy through Thunderbolt ports. To protect against firmware security threats, the following measures are recommended: 1. Regularly update firmware and software from official channels to address security vulnerabilities. 2. Enable Secure Boot to ensure the PC only boots using trusted firmware. 3. Limit physical access to devices to prevent unauthorized firmware attacks. 4. Utilize antivirus software to detect malware in firmware updates before installation.

Tech Optimizer

September 4, 2025

Don’t use your home Wi-Fi before fixing certain security risks

Home Wi-Fi networks connect various devices and are essential for online activities, but they can be vulnerable due to weak security settings and outdated equipment. Hackers often target residential networks, which typically have weaker defenses than corporate systems. Compromised networks can lead to the interception of sensitive information. To enhance Wi-Fi security, it is important to use a modern router with strong encryption (WPA3 or WPA2), regularly update firmware, change default login passwords, and create a strong Wi-Fi password of at least 12 to 16 characters. Monitoring connected devices and disabling Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) can help prevent unauthorized access. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can protect online privacy, while antivirus software can safeguard connected devices from malware. Taking these steps can significantly improve home Wi-Fi security.