future updates Archives

Winsage

February 10, 2026

Microsoft is keeping Secure Boot alive with Windows updates

Microsoft is enhancing the security of Windows devices by replacing boot-level security certificates that are nearing expiration, with this initiative integrated into regular Windows platform updates. The original Secure Boot certificates from 2011 will expire between June and October 2026, prompting Microsoft to issue new certificates in 2023, which are included in many new Windows devices sold since 2024. Older hardware will require updates to remain compliant. Devices with expired certificates will continue to operate but will enter a "degraded security state," potentially hindering future updates and causing compatibility issues. The new Secure Boot certificates rollout began with the Windows 11 KB5074109 update. Most Windows 11 users will have the new certificates installed automatically, while specialized systems may have different update protocols. Windows 10 users must enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates to receive the new certificates.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

Minecraft Snapshot 26.1 Introduces Golden Dandelion and Baby Mobs

Mojang Studios has released the fifth snapshot of Minecraft version 26.1, featuring refined baby aquatic mobs with redesigned shapes and adjusted bounding boxes for improved interaction. Players can now craft the Golden Dandelion by combining a standard dandelion with eight gold nuggets, which prevents certain baby mobs from maturing, though it cannot be used on hostile baby mobs or villagers. Baby chickens have received new sound effects, enhancing the immersive experience. The snapshot is experimental and encourages player feedback for future updates.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Why Windows 11 feels slower than Windows 10—and why it’s not just in your head

Windows 11 features a modern architecture with advanced schedulers and SSD support, but many users experience sluggishness, with delays in menus and dialog boxes. This perception of reduced responsiveness compared to Windows 10 has been linked to the use of XAML, which modernizes traditional desktop components but introduces performance issues due to added abstraction layers. Disabling animations does not resolve the delays, which are attributed to XAML's reliance on GPU acceleration for simple tasks, leading to inefficiencies. The cumulative effect of these micro-delays, measured in milliseconds, contributes to an overall feeling of sluggishness, regardless of high-end hardware. Microsoft's design choices prioritize visual consistency and modern UI technology, resulting in trade-offs in everyday responsiveness. The slower perception of Windows 11 compared to Windows 10 is rooted in these deliberate technical decisions.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

Galaxy XR Gets a Dedicated SmartThings App, But With Caveats

Galaxy XR is the first device powered by Google’s Android XR platform, launched at a premium price of ,800. Samsung has released a dedicated SmartThings app for Galaxy XR, which features a user-friendly interface and allows users to manage smart home environments while using the device. However, the app currently lacks several features found in the mobile app and on Samsung TVs, including the Map View. There is speculation that Samsung may develop a more advanced SmartThings Map View for XR in the future.

BetaBeacon

January 29, 2026

GameNative now supports Epic Games on Android — here’s how it works

GameNative has released an update that allows users to integrate Epic Games Store games on their Android devices. The process involves logging in to an Epic Games account through a browser and pasting an authentication key into GameNative. Multiplayer games are not currently supported, but this feature may be added in a future update. GameNative is an open-source emulator that regularly updates drivers to improve compatibility with different storefronts. Users may need a powerful device with ample RAM to run games smoothly.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Windows 11’s Gaming Gains Overshadowed by Stability Crisis: Performance Tests Reveal a Troubled Transition

Microsoft's Windows 11 version 24H2 shows performance improvements in gaming, with frame rate enhancements ranging from 2% to 8% across various titles, particularly benefiting newer DirectX 12 games. However, users report significant stability issues, including Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, crashes during gameplay, and compatibility problems with certain hardware and software. These issues affect a wide range of systems, suggesting systemic challenges rather than isolated incidents. The operating system's hardware compatibility requirements, such as TPM 2.0 support, have also limited upgrade eligibility for many users. Microsoft has acknowledged specific issues related to Intel and AMD processors, antivirus software conflicts, and outdated drivers. Despite ongoing patch deployments, user frustration persists due to the slow pace of fixes. The stability concerns have led some businesses to delay Windows 11 24H2 deployments, prioritizing reliability over performance gains. The driver ecosystem's lag in updates from hardware manufacturers has further complicated stability. The gaming community remains divided, with many users opting to stay on Windows 10 due to these stability risks.

AppWizard

January 29, 2026

Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition is down at $20 today

Minecraft: Java & Bedrock Edition is available for .97, down from the regular price, at 9to5Toys Specials. The bundle includes both the Java Edition for PC, Mac, and Linux, and the Bedrock Edition for console and mobile users. The Java Edition supports modding and custom content, while the Bedrock Edition allows cross-platform play and access to the Minecraft Marketplace. The package includes lifetime access and all future updates, with a 33% discount off the standard price.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Can’t upgrade to Windows 11? I found the best Linux distro to replace your Windows 10 PC

SDesk is an Arch-based Linux distribution available for free installation on an unlimited number of computers. It features a user-friendly GNOME desktop environment that resembles traditional operating systems like Windows and macOS, including a panel, menu, top bar, favorites, and desktop icons. Pre-installed applications include LibreOffice, Geary, GNOME Music, GNOME Video, Octopi, GNOME Maps, and Swirl. Users can install additional software via Octopi or Flatpak. The distribution offers a visually appealing and functional layout, with quick application launch times and a window snapping feature for enhanced productivity. However, it has some issues, such as a desktop lock-up after updates and a lack of multimedia codecs for MP3 and MP4 playback, which can be resolved by installing VLC.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Windows 11 Update KB5074109 Disrupts Modems for Select Users

Many users have experienced issues with their modems after installing the January 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 (KB5074109), which removed several legacy modem drivers, including agrsm64.sys (x64), agrsm.sys (x86), smserl64.sys (x64), and smserial.sys (x86). This removal has rendered many modems inoperable. Users have reported frustrations, with some restoring functionality by uninstalling the update. Microsoft has stated that the removal of these drivers was necessary to address security vulnerabilities, but this has not alleviated user dissatisfaction. Many users are left with limited options and are advised to uninstall the update and pause future updates while awaiting new drivers from manufacturers.

AppWizard

January 26, 2026

Did the Pixel Weather app let you down during the snowstorm? You’re not alone.

Users of the Pixel Weather app have reported significant inaccuracies during a recent major snowstorm in North America, which has led to widespread frustration within the Pixel community. The app, launched in 2024, consistently underestimated snowfall amounts, with users noting discrepancies between its forecasts and data from the National Weather Service (NWS). A poll revealed that 60% of users felt the app did not provide correct forecasts during the storm. Specific user experiences included predictions of 0.5 inches of snow when actual amounts were expected to be between 7-11 inches, and incorrect temperature readings, such as stating it was 46 degrees when it was actually 5 degrees. Users also criticized the app's use of the term "flurzy," which appears to be a fabricated word. Despite some users reporting that the app functioned correctly, the overall feedback has raised concerns about its reliability, particularly in severe weather conditions. Inquiries have been made to Google for clarification and potential improvements.