HP Archives

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Leaked Android desktop UI looks like a Windows rival

Google has unveiled a desktop-class version of Android, potentially named Aluminium OS, through a developer video showcasing a windowed interface designed for PCs with multitasking features. This new operating system could challenge Microsoft’s Windows 11, particularly in low-end laptop and cloud-centric segments. The video features an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook running an internal build of Aluminium OS, which appears to be optimized for larger screens and retains familiar Android indicators. Lenovo has noted potential challenges for Android PCs, including limited desktop features and app compatibility issues. Google may integrate its Gemini technology into Aluminium OS, which features a taskbar with a centrally located Start button and redesigned mouse cursor. The operating system supports multitasking, allowing multiple Google Chrome windows in split-screen mode, and includes an Extensions button. Qualcomm is set to launch next-generation Android PCs later this year.

Winsage

January 20, 2026

Windows 11, not AI, kick-started the PC upgrade cycle

The global PC market saw a 9.3 percent increase in shipments in the fourth quarter of 2025, resulting in an annual growth of 9.1 percent, according to Gartner. This rebound is mainly due to corporate IT departments upgrading aging hardware rather than consumer demand or interest in AI devices. The transition is driven by the shift to Windows 11, as businesses must replace machines that do not meet new hardware requirements. A report from Context indicates that buyers prioritize price, battery life, and performance over AI functionalities. Lenovo led the market with approximately 19.4 million units shipped, followed by HP with around 15.4 million and Dell at 11.7 million. The upgrades are primarily motivated by compliance with Windows 11 deadlines and security mandates, rather than excitement for new technologies.

Winsage

January 14, 2026

Microsoft Fixes 114 Windows Flaws in January 2026 Patch, One Actively Exploited

On Tuesday, Microsoft released its first security update for 2026, addressing 114 vulnerabilities, including eight classified as Critical and 106 as Important. The vulnerabilities include 58 related to privilege escalation, 22 concerning information disclosure, 21 linked to remote code execution, and five categorized as spoofing flaws. A notable vulnerability, CVE-2026-20805, involves information disclosure within the Desktop Window Manager (DWM) and has a CVSS score of 5.5. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has added this flaw to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, requiring federal agencies to implement fixes by February 3, 2026. Additionally, Microsoft announced the expiration of three Windows Secure Boot certificates issued in 2011, effective June 2026, urging customers to transition to newer certificates to avoid disruptions. The update also removed vulnerable Agere Soft Modem drivers due to a local privilege escalation flaw (CVE-2023-31096) and addressed another critical privilege escalation flaw in Windows Virtualization-Based Security (CVE-2026-20876) with a CVSS score of 6.7. Other vendors, including Adobe, Amazon Web Services, and Cisco, have also released security patches for various vulnerabilities.

Winsage

January 13, 2026

CES 2026: Showcasing new Windows 11 PC innovations across the ecosystem

CES showcased significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) integrated into the Windows ecosystem, with various companies unveiling new products. Acer introduced the Copilot+ PCs, including the Swift 16 AI laptop with a haptic touchpad and Predator Helios Neo 16S AI gaming laptop. ASUS launched the Zenbook DUO, featuring dual OLED touchscreens, and the ROG Zephyrus Duo, a dual-screen gaming laptop. Dell refreshed its XPS brand with new laptops and monitors, while HP presented the EliteBook X G2 Series and the EliteBoard G1a Next Gen AI PC. Lenovo revealed several new Copilot+ PCs, and Samsung introduced the Galaxy Book6 series. AMD and Intel announced new processor lines, with AMD's Ryzen AI 400 Mobile Series and Intel's Core Ultra Series 3 processors. Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon X2 Plus for enhanced AI experiences in PCs.

Winsage

January 6, 2026

HP put a mini PC inside a keyboard, and I love it — a Windows-based approach to the Raspberry Pi 500 with self-repairable parts

HP introduced the EliteBoard G1a at CES 2026, a keyboard that integrates a mini PC powered by AMD's Ryzen AI 300 PRO mobile processors, featuring a neural processing unit (NPU) capable of delivering up to 50 TOPS. It is designed to cater to hybrid workers using external monitors with laptops closed. The internal components include upgradeable DDR5 SODIMM RAM and M.2 NVMe solid-state drives. Key specifications include: - OS: Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro - CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 PRO, AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 PRO, AMD Ryzen AI 5 330 PRO - GPU: Up to AMD Radeon 860M integrated - RAM: Up to 64GB DDR5-5600 SODIMM - Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2, 512GB encrypted PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2, 32GB eMMC v5.0 (Ryzen AI 7 350 only) - Ports: 1x USB4, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (detached cable); 1x tethered USB4, 1x USB4, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (attached cable) - Connectivity: MediaTek RZ616 Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3, MediaTek MT7925 Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 6.0 - Audio: Stereo speakers, Stereo microphones - Power: Configurable 32Whr battery (3.5+ hours), 65W USB-C GaN power adapter - Dimensions: 358mm x 118mm x 17mm, weight 1.49 - 1.69 lbs The design includes a spill-resistant keyboard that can be replaced in about ten minutes and a removable bottom panel for easy access to internal components. Both models support up to four 4K monitors at 60Hz and offer around 3.5 hours of usage on a full charge. The EliteBoard G1a has received a CES Innovation Award.

Winsage

January 4, 2026

End of Windows 11 SE likely in 2026: See what it means for schools

Microsoft has confirmed that support for Windows 11 SE will end in 2026. Windows 11 SE was launched in 2021 to cater to younger students and aimed to compete with Chromebooks by providing a secure and cost-effective solution for schools. It featured restrictions to minimize distractions, allowing only IT administrators to install applications. The last release of Windows 11 SE was version 24H2, and complete support, including security patches, will conclude on October 13, 2026. Microsoft has advised schools to transition to standard versions of Windows 11, which may require additional funding for device upgrades or replacements.

Winsage

January 4, 2026

Microsoft to end support for Windows 11 SE in 2026

Microsoft will conclude support for its Windows 11 SE operating system, designed for K–8 classrooms, by the end of 2026. The final version will be 24H2, and full support, including security patches, will end on October 13, 2026. Schools using these devices will face challenges as they will no longer receive security updates, raising concerns about student data privacy. Microsoft is advising educational institutions to consider hardware that supports standard versions of Windows 11. This shift creates budgetary concerns for schools that invested in the SE ecosystem, as they will need to secure funds for upgrades or replacements.

Winsage

January 2, 2026

Microsoft’s Windows 11 SE, once supposed to be a ChromeOS-killer, bites dust in next ten months

Microsoft has announced that Windows 11 SE will reach its end of life in 2026. Initially launched in 2021 for K-8 educational environments, Windows 11 SE was designed as a streamlined, web-first operating system to compete with ChromeOS. It allowed only approved applications for educational purposes and required administrator approval for traditional Windows applications. The last supported version for Windows 11 SE is version 24H2, with no new feature updates planned. Schools using Windows 11 SE devices will need to transition to a supported edition of Windows for ongoing updates and support. Microsoft recommends upgrading to maintain security and support, as it will also phase out support for other products, including Office 2021 and Windows 11 24H2 (Pro and Home), by the same deadline.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

Windows Reborn: Microsoft Moves Copilot into the Kernel, Launching the Era of the AI-Native OS

Microsoft is transitioning its Windows operating system to an "AI-native" platform, embedding AI capabilities directly into the Windows kernel, marking a significant architectural shift not seen in three decades. This new approach, called the "Agentic OS," allows AI to manage files, system settings, and workflows proactively. The updated kernel, partially rewritten in Rust, includes a new NPU-aware scheduler that treats the Neural Processing Unit as a primary resource. Microsoft has introduced "Agent Workspace" and "Agent Accounts" for autonomous agents, ensuring actions are logged and audited for compliance. Communication between agents and the system is facilitated by the Model Context Protocol (MCP). Hardware requirements for the new OS have increased, with benchmarks set for NPUs achieving 80 to 100 TOPS. Major PC manufacturers are adjusting their portfolios to accommodate "Agentic PCs." The competitive landscape is evolving, with companies like Alphabet and Apple developing their own AI-native platforms. The introduction of the AI-native kernel raises privacy and security concerns, with Microsoft implementing measures to restrict third-party access to the kernel. Future updates may include "self-healing" capabilities and "Cross-Device Agency," leading to a more integrated personal AI experience.

Tech Optimizer

December 24, 2025

Animated Malware Lures Evolve, Threatening Users’ Cybersecurity

Small businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals, who are using sophisticated tactics such as animated lures to entice users into downloading malware. The HP Threat Insights Report highlights that small businesses, often perceived as easier targets due to limited resources, are particularly vulnerable. The rise of purchasable malware services allows inexperienced criminals to engage in cybercrime, broadening the range of potential threats. To combat these risks, small business owners are advised to invest in employee training on phishing tactics, implement robust cybersecurity measures, conduct regular security audits, and develop incident response plans. However, challenges such as limited budgets and lack of dedicated IT staff hinder their ability to enhance cybersecurity. Keeping informed about evolving threats is essential for protecting their operations.