functionality

Winsage
October 4, 2026
In October 2026, Microsoft is addressing ongoing issues from its September updates for Windows 11, particularly related to audio decoding. Certain applications and games using Windows' built-in AC-3 (Dolby Digital) audio decoding may crash when users adjust volume or audio settings. This issue primarily affects older applications and games, while most modern apps are expected to function normally. Microsoft has issued multiple updates, including a mandatory Patch Tuesday update and an emergency patch, but some audio problems remain unresolved. The September updates also introduced a significant increase in security fixes, addressing 974 vulnerabilities compared to 86 in September 2025. Additionally, an emergency update disrupted the functionality of File History, which Microsoft is investigating. An optional update aimed to fix File History but led to new crashes in various applications. Microsoft is currently working on a resolution for the audio-decoding bug without a specified timeline.
AppWizard
October 4, 2026
The unofficial PC version of The Simpsons Game has been released nearly two decades after its original console launch in 2007. It is based on the Xbox 360 version and is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Steam Deck. The game has been rebuilt for x86-64 architecture, allowing it to run without CPU emulation, and supports Direct3D 12 and Vulkan. Players can experience fluid gameplay at 60 FPS, with menus and loading screens capped at 30 FPS. The port includes adjustable render scales for improved graphics and supports both controllers and customizable keyboard and mouse controls. The launcher features a new theme, automatic settings saving, and improved user interface. Performance enhancements include a refined timer setting for audio issues, increased frame rates on the Steam Deck, and reduced video memory usage. The game is available for download, but players must provide their own Xbox 360 ISO. Additionally, there is a growing library of unofficial PC ports of console-exclusive games, including titles like Super Mario 64 and Crash Team Racing.
Winsage
October 4, 2026
A scrollbar shortcut in Windows operating systems, allowing users to jump to a specific location in a document by holding the Shift key and clicking on the scrollbar, has been part of the Windows experience since 2000. This functionality is not available in WinUI, the framework for modern Windows 11 applications. A GitHub issue titled “Shift-clicking in scroll bar should jump to destination” was opened in June, indicating the inconsistency of WinUI compared to other frameworks like Win32 and WPF that support this shortcut. Microsoft is aware of the shortcomings in WinUI and is working on addressing various performance issues and enhancing the overall quality of WinUI applications.
Winsage
October 4, 2026
Windows provides graphical tools for various tasks, but terminal commands can be more efficient. Three utilities that serve as alternatives to File Explorer, Task Manager, and Notepad are zoxide, btop, and bat, all of which can be installed using winget. zoxide is a directory jumper that simplifies navigation through folder structures by learning user habits. It can be installed with PLACEHOLDERf0ff8219c0950297 and requires a line added to the PowerShell profile for activation. Users can jump to directories by typing PLACEHOLDERb9546a80b5ad16aa followed by part of the folder name, and it adapts over time based on usage patterns. btop is a system monitor that displays processor, memory, disk, network, and process data on a single terminal screen. The Windows version, btop4win, can be installed with winget install aristocratos.btop4win. It features live graphs, allows navigation via keyboard and mouse, and provides real-time updates on resource consumption. Users can filter and sort processes and terminate them directly from the interface. bat is a command-line file viewer that shows file contents with syntax highlighting and line numbers, eliminating the need to open Notepad. It can be installed using winget install sharkdp.bat and allows users to view files directly in the terminal. It integrates with Git to highlight changes and manages longer files with a pager for easier scrolling. These tools enhance efficiency for common tasks in Windows by providing quick access and streamlined workflows through the terminal.
Winsage
October 4, 2026
On September 22, 2026, Microsoft released the optional Preview Update KB5124010 for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H2, aimed at enhancing performance and addressing various issues, with broader distribution planned for October 2026. User feedback indicated concerns about complications from the update. A user reported that applications were crashing due to issues with the library file msmpeg2ac3dec.dll when multiple MP3 files were played simultaneously, affecting older games like SimCity 4 and Fallout New Vegas. The user's company’s telephone system, using innovaphone, also experienced crashes with the myApps client. The msmpeg2ac3dec.dll file was found only on systems upgraded from Windows 11 22H2, while fresh installations of 24H2 or 25H2 did not include it. A workaround involving the installation of "LAV Filters" was tested and found to resolve the crashing issue. Microsoft acknowledged the issues related to the Preview Update KB5124010, stating that applications requiring AC-3 audio decoding might close unexpectedly and that they are working on a resolution for this problem in a future update.
AppWizard
October 3, 2026
Chrome for Android supports the use of windows, allowing users to open multiple windows, each with its own tabs while sharing bookmarks and settings. Users can open an unlimited number of windows, which appear distinctly in Android's Recents screen. To open a new window on slab-style phones, users activate split-screen mode, tap the three-dot menu icon, and select "New window." For foldable phones, users can skip the split-screen step. Tabs can be moved between windows using the three-dot menu icon. All open windows can be managed through the Recents multitasking screen, where users can assign names or close them. This window functionality enhances multitasking and organization, making mobile browsing more akin to a desktop experience. Other browsers like Samsung Internet and Microsoft Edge have adopted similar features, while Firefox has not.
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