hardware compatibility Archives

Winsage

May 1, 2025

4 Windows versions Windows 12 should shamelessly imitate

Windows 12 is speculated to potentially launch in two to three years, following the end of support for Windows 10. It may draw inspiration from previous successful versions like Windows XP, Windows 7, and Windows 10, focusing on user customization, performance, and reducing bloatware. Windows 11, launched six years after Windows 10, introduced a new visual style and features but faced criticism over hardware requirements. Windows 12 is expected to build on Windows 11's foundation with incremental improvements and enhanced support for ARM processors.

BetaBeacon

April 4, 2025

Nintendo made its own Switch emulator… for the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 will use emulation to achieve backwards compatibility with original Switch games.

BetaBeacon

April 4, 2025

This is how Nintendo aims to stop Switch 2 emulation on Android

Nintendo Switch 2 will not be compatible with original Switch games at a hardware level due to different architecture. Nintendo is using a method called "Game Key Card" where users will insert the game cartridge and wait for the game to be downloaded from the cloud. This method is aimed at preventing or slowing down Switch 2 emulation.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

I started using a Mac full time for work – but these are the things I missed from Windows 11 that made me switch back

The author has used Microsoft Windows since Windows 3.1 and remains loyal to it due to familiarity, despite preferring macOS for its cleaner interface and respect for user preferences. Windows 11 is noted for its intrusive advertisements and tendency to override user settings, while macOS is appreciated for its stability and less aggressive promotional approach. The author misses Windows 11's Clipboard history feature and superior window management capabilities, which enhance productivity. Windows 10 will reach its End of Life in October 2025, prompting users to consider alternatives, with the author contemplating a permanent switch to macOS Sequoia.

Winsage

March 27, 2025

Windows 10 Ending : Microsoft Makes Windows 11 Free, But Not for Long

Microsoft's official end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 2025, prompting the company to encourage users to transition to Windows 11 through a "limited-time" free upgrade offer. Windows 11 has stringent system requirements, including TPM 2.0 support, which many older PCs lack. Microsoft 365 apps will stop receiving updates on Windows 10 after support ends, although they will continue to function. Users who do not upgrade can opt for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued security patches at a cost. Options for users include upgrading to a compatible PC, switching to another operating system like Linux, or remaining on Windows 10 with limited support.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

Microsoft to kill popular Windows 10 app on this exact date

Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025, and will no longer receive free software and security updates. Microsoft 365 apps will also lose support after this date, prompting users to upgrade to Windows 11. OneNote for Windows 10 will reach end of support on October 14, 2025, and users are encouraged to transition to OneNote on Windows (OneNote M365). Starting in June 2025, OneNote for Windows 10 users will experience slower sync performance, and in July, prompts to switch to OneNote (M365) will appear. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for Windows 10 users, but certain minimum system requirements must be met, leading to concerns about hardware compatibility and potential performance issues. Microsoft is encouraging users to trade in their devices for newer hardware that supports Windows 11.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

Hitachi Energy’s upgrade to Windows 11 on 89% of desktops

Hitachi Energy has migrated over 40,000 desktops to Windows 11 across 12 countries, starting with a pilot of 500 devices in November 2023 and full rollout beginning in March 2024, expected to complete by October 2024. The company assessed 45,335 devices, with 43,568 suitable for upgrade, and found 2,330 out of 3,034 applications compatible with Windows 11, achieving a 76% compatibility rate. Approximately 40,600 devices, nearly 90%, successfully transitioned to Windows 11, while the rest were upgraded to Windows 10. The migration utilized ManagementStudio integrated with various platforms for efficiency, with nearly 10,000 devices upgraded in May 2024. A pilot program tested the new OS with selected users to identify issues before broader deployment. Transitioning is crucial as Windows 10 approaches end-of-support, with Microsoft addressing numerous vulnerabilities in its updates.

Winsage

March 15, 2025

Valve’s Promise Comes True With SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview: Offers Support To Non-Steam Deck Handhelds And Plasma 6 For Linux Desktop-Like Experience

Valve has released the SteamOS 3.7.0 Preview, known as "Pi Day," which includes several enhancements for the Steam Deck. Key updates include: - Upgraded Arch Linux base for better software access and security updates. - Linux Kernel updated to version 6.11 for improved performance, security, and hardware compatibility. - Transition from Plasma 5.7 to Plasma 6.2.5, offering a more feature-rich desktop environment. - Updates across various domains, including Controllers & Input, Bluetooth, Graphics & Performance, and bug fixes. - Improved surround sound support in desktop mode and faster transitions between desktop and gaming modes. - Enhanced compatibility with certain displays and activation of AMD P-State CPU frequency control. - Initial support for non-Steam Deck handhelds, with the Legion Go S being the only compatible device currently. Many features are still in testing and can be accessed via Settings > System > System Update Channel.

Winsage

March 15, 2025

Rumour: Valve about to launch SteamOS for all PCs

SteamOS is set to be released for all PCs, with expanded hardware support indicated by recent rumors and code changes. Valve announced during CES 2025 that SteamOS will be available to third-party manufacturers, with the Lenovo Legion Go S being the first device to feature it, launching in May 2025. This marks a shift from Valve's previous attempts with Steam Machines. SteamOS is designed as a streamlined Linux alternative for gaming enthusiasts, aiming to compete with Windows by offering a simplified interface. Nvidia's introduction of an ARM chip raises speculation about broader hardware compatibility, potentially including ARM-based devices.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Microsoft Intensifies Push for Windows 11 Adoption Amid Looming Windows 10 End-of-Support

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, highlighting its advantages as the end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches on October 14, 2025. As of August 2024, Windows 11 accounts for nearly 32% of global Windows installations, up from 23% in July 2023, while Windows 10 holds about 64% market share. Windows 11 has become the preferred operating system for PC gamers on Steam, with 49% of users choosing it over 47% for Windows 10. Key features of Windows 11 include mandatory TPM 2.0 for enhanced security, a redesigned Start menu, improved multitasking with Snap Layouts, integration with Microsoft Teams, and a more efficient Windows Update process. However, some users are hesitant to upgrade due to hardware compatibility issues and a preference for Windows 10's interface. Microsoft may increase efforts to promote the transition to Windows 11 as the support deadline nears, and users remaining on Windows 10 will face security risks without official support.