full-screen Archives

Tech Optimizer

July 9, 2026

This antivirus doesn’t slow your PC down — it quietly keeps it safe for $19.99

ESET NOD32 Antivirus for Windows is available for .99 for a one-year subscription. It operates in the background, providing protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware without causing noticeable slowdowns. Key features include a Ransomware Shield, Anti-phishing Protection, Gamer Mode, and AI-assisted Threat Detection. It is designed for users who multitask, stream, or game, allowing for uninterrupted productivity.

AppWizard

June 29, 2026

XBOX PC and Games

The PC is a popular platform for gamers, and Windows 11 enhances this experience with features tailored for gaming. It includes an integrated Xbox app that connects with third-party game stores and Microsoft's gaming ecosystem. The Game Bar allows users to capture screenshots, record video clips, and interact with friends on Xbox Live. Xbox Mode optimizes resource usage for gaming but is not enabled by default. Windows 11 comes with pre-installed gaming features, including the Xbox app and Game Bar, which can be customized through the Settings app. Users can configure display settings, connect an Xbox Wireless Controller, and customize the Game Bar and its widgets. The Xbox app allows users to manage their game libraries, access Game Pass subscriptions, and stream games via Cloud Gaming. Microsoft offers various Xbox Game Pass subscription tiers for access to a library of games. Xbox Mode provides a full-screen, controller-optimized interface that enhances gaming performance.

Winsage

June 24, 2026

Here are 5 Windows 11 features coming in July. None of them require AI

Microsoft will release five new features for Windows 11 in July, with an optional preview available in June. Key features include the ability to pause updates for up to 35 days using a calendar view, the Point-in-Time Restore (PITR) feature that automatically generates restore points for the system, and the Screen Tint feature to reduce eye strain with customizable color overlays. Improvements in Bluetooth connectivity will enhance performance, especially for AirPods and Beats Studio Pro headphones. The taskbar widgets will change to reduce distractions by not expanding on cursor hover, and notification icons will be streamlined. These features will be available through an optional update at the end of June or a mandatory update in July.

AppWizard

June 20, 2026

I installed Android 17 on my Pixel 10, and now I’m about to step up my social media game

Android 17 has introduced a new feature called screen reactions for Pixel devices, allowing users to create reaction videos easily by overlaying a small floating video of themselves while reacting to content. This feature enhances viewer engagement and simplifies the process, requiring only a few taps on a Pixel 10. However, it has limitations, such as requiring full-screen recording, which can lead to quality issues, and the presence of a screen recording status icon that may detract from the video's professionalism. Additionally, stopping the recording currently involves a two-step process, which could be improved for user convenience.

Winsage

June 16, 2026

Start

The Start interface in Windows 11 is a centered floating window that can be accessed by clicking the Start button or using keyboard shortcuts like WINKEY or Ctrl + Esc. Key features include a Search box for initiating searches, a customizable Pinned section for frequently used apps, a Recommended area for recently accessed items, and an All section displaying all installed apps. Users can manage their account through the Account manager, access power options for Lock, Sleep, Shutdown, and Restart, and connect mobile devices via the Phone Link app. Customization options for the Start interface include moving the Start and Taskbar icons to the left, configuring Windows Search settings, and customizing the Pinned and Recommended sections. Users can pin, unpin, and rearrange app shortcuts in the Pinned section, adjust what appears in the Recommended section, and choose between different layout views in the All section. The Account manager allows limited customization of notifications, and users can add folders and mobile device slices to Start. The Quick link menu provides access to legacy management interfaces and can be accessed by right-clicking the Start button or using WINKEY + X.

AppWizard

June 10, 2026

Minecraft Dungeons 2: Expanding Exploration and Co-op Action

Minecraft Dungeons 2 was showcased at a private Xbox event in Los Angeles. The game features an interconnected world for exploration, allowing players to pursue objectives in larger environments. It introduces verticality, enabling players to jump and execute jump attacks. The art style has been refined, with concept art used during loading screens. Multiplayer gameplay supports solo play or teaming up with up to three others, both online and locally. The combat system retains exhilarating action while introducing new items and effects, with no distinct character classes. Players can equip four armor slots and utilize new equipment types like artifacts and talismans. A mini-inventory system has been implemented for quick equipment management. The demo took place in the Deep Dark biome, featuring familiar and new mobs, and included a challenging boss fight that emphasized teamwork. Minecraft Dungeons 2 is set to launch on September 29 for PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 1 and 2.

Winsage

June 3, 2026

How to Use New Windows 11 Screen Tint Feature

Microsoft has introduced a "Screen tint" feature in Windows 11, aimed at enhancing accessibility for users with varying visual needs. This feature is currently available only to Windows Insiders running build 26300.8497 and provides a full-screen color overlay to reduce eye strain. Users can activate it through the Accessibility settings by toggling the "Show a color overlay" option and customizing the tint color and intensity. Alternatives to the Screen tint feature include the Night Light, which reduces blue light emissions, and Color Filters, designed for individuals with color blindness.

Winsage

May 30, 2026

Tested: Windows 11’s new Start menu lets you fully customize it, and it works surprisingly well

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Build 26300.8553, featuring a redesigned Start menu that addresses user complaints about customization and performance. The update introduces section-level toggles for managing the visibility of Pinned, Recent, and All sections. The Recommended section has been rebranded as Recent, allowing users to display recently accessed files and customize its visibility. Users can also disable Pinned apps and All apps, leading to a minimalist Start menu. Three size options for the Start menu are available: Automatic, Small, and Medium. The All apps section can be viewed in Grid or List format. Users can hide their name and profile picture from the Start menu. A native Start menu is in development, with plans to use native WinUI 3 frameworks for improved performance. Additionally, a new Low Latency Profile CPU boost is being rolled out to enhance responsiveness.

Winsage

May 29, 2026

“We are not ready to move” as HP’s Windows 10 holdouts highlight Microsoft’s upgrade struggle

30% of HP's installed user base is still operating on Windows 10, which leaves approximately 400 million PCs vulnerable as they do not meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11. The proportion of Windows 10 users has declined slightly since September 2025. HP's revenue rose by 9% year-on-year, reaching .41 billion, with the transition to Windows 11 providing a financial advantage for the company. Microsoft introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 users, allowing enrollment for free or through Microsoft Reward points, with access later made free for users in the European Economic Area who do not meet cloud backup requirements. Critics argue that the end of support for Windows 10 forces functional PCs into premature retirement due to hardware requirements for Windows 11. The Public Interest Research Group has raised concerns about the impact of discontinuing Windows 10 support on older devices and is promoting Linux as an alternative. Microsoft has been encouraging upgrades to Windows 11 through ads highlighting performance advantages.

Winsage

May 29, 2026

HP’s Windows 10 holdouts show just how hard Microsoft’s Windows 11 upgrade push really is

HP reported that 30% of its installed user base is still using Windows 10, which will lose support on October 14, 2025, leaving around 400 million PCs vulnerable. Many of these PCs do not meet the hardware requirements for upgrading to Windows 11. The percentage of Windows 10 users has declined slightly since September 2025, when nearly half of HP and Dell's PCs were still running the older system. Microsoft introduced an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing users to enroll for free or through a payment option, but later made access free for users in the European Economic Area who do not meet the cloud backup requirement. Critics argue that the end of support for Windows 10 exemplifies programmed obsolescence, potentially forcing many functioning PCs into retirement. Initiatives like End of 10 are encouraging users to consider transitioning to Linux, highlighting its lack of advertisements and telemetry tracking. Microsoft has attempted to persuade users to upgrade to Windows 11 through ads and claims of improved performance. It is unclear if Windows 10 users have enrolled in the ESU program or are operating without security updates.