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Microsoft is changing the rules of the game: updates are no longer forced in Windows 11
Winsage
April 29, 2026

Microsoft is changing the rules of the game: updates are no longer forced in Windows 11

Windows 11 has introduced a new update management model that allows users to pause updates indefinitely, transforming the previous 35-day limit into a flexible option. This change addresses user frustrations regarding unexpected reboots and system instability caused by updates. Users can now choose to restart or shut down their systems without automatic updates being installed. This adjustment aligns with Microsoft's strategy to enhance user autonomy, although the company warns that neglecting updates can increase security vulnerabilities. The new features are currently available in test builds, with a wider rollout expected soon.
Windows K2 tracker: Keeping tabs on Microsoft's promises to fix Windows 11
Winsage
April 29, 2026

Windows K2 tracker: Keeping tabs on Microsoft’s promises to fix Windows 11

Microsoft has outlined a roadmap for Windows 11 as part of its Windows K2 initiative, focusing on enhancements to user experience by addressing longstanding issues and responding to user feedback. A table detailing Microsoft's commitments includes the following: - Taskbar Repositioning: Allow taskbar at top, left, and right - Status: Preview expected imminently. - Taskbar Customization: More personalization options including smaller taskbar - Status: Preview expected this year. - AI Integration: Reduce unnecessary Copilot entry points in various tools - Status: Copilot in Snipping Tool removed; Notepad Copilot button replaced with AI writing tools. - Windows Update Control: Skip updates during setup; restart/shutdown without forced updates; pause longer - Status: Rolling out now. - File Explorer: Faster launch, reduced flicker, smoother navigation - Status: Work in progress; faster launch times already in testing. - Widgets: Quieter defaults, more control, better personalization - Status: No preview yet. - Windows Insider Program: Simpler channels, clearer definitions, higher-quality builds - Status: Rolling out now. - Feedback Hub: Largest redesign yet - Status: Rolling out now. - System Performance: Reduced resource usage, improved responsiveness - Status: Work underway; some early improvements noted. - WinUI 3 Migration: Move more Windows experiences to WinUI 3 - Status: In progress; Start menu migration confirmed but not yet shipping. - File Explorer Fundamentals: Lower latency for search, navigation, context menus - Status: Committed, not yet being previewed. The Windows K2 initiative aims to improve performance, reliability, and craftsmanship in Windows 11, addressing user feedback to enhance competitiveness against macOS and Linux. The project seeks to reshape internal perspectives on product development to be more user-centric. Regular updates will reflect the latest progress.
Microsoft open-sources 86-DOS 1.00, the ancestor of Windows
Winsage
April 29, 2026

Microsoft open-sources 86-DOS 1.00, the ancestor of Windows

Microsoft has made the source code for 86-DOS 1.00 available on GitHub to celebrate its 45th anniversary. 86-DOS, developed by Tim Paterson, was foundational for MS-DOS and Windows. This release is part of Microsoft's effort to preserve historically significant software. Microsoft previously released the source code for MS-DOS versions 1.25, 2.11, and 4.0. A team of historians and preservationists has gathered and transcribed DOS-era source listings, including the 86-DOS 1.00 kernel and development snapshots of the PC-DOS 1.00 kernel. Microsoft acquired 86-DOS from Seattle Computer Products for approximately ,000 and modified it to deliver PC-DOS 1.0 in August 1981, which became known as MS-DOS for IBM-compatible computers.
ON THIS DAY: Continuum will be built into Windows 10 for Phones, turning your phone into a PC
Winsage
April 29, 2026

ON THIS DAY: Continuum will be built into Windows 10 for Phones, turning your phone into a PC

Windows Central is approaching its 20th anniversary in 2027 and is reflecting on significant moments in its history. A notable milestone occurred 11 years ago with the introduction of Continuum for Windows 10 Mobile, which aimed to merge smartphone and desktop PC functionalities. This feature allowed users to connect their mobile devices to external monitors, keyboards, and mice, creating a desktop-like environment. Key features included integration with Windows 10 for phones, support for HDMI connections, an adaptable user interface, and the ability to run familiar applications like Office on external screens. The announcement was made during the Build 2015 keynote, highlighting the potential of the universal app model to enhance productivity and redefine personal computing.
The latest PowerToys update brings a useful Linux-like feature to Windows 11
Winsage
April 29, 2026

The latest PowerToys update brings a useful Linux-like feature to Windows 11

The latest version of PowerToys, 0.99.0, introduces several new features: - "Grab and Move" functionality allows users to drag windows with ALT+left-click and resize them with ALT+click. - The Power Display System Tray Tool enables brightness, contrast, and color-profile adjustments, though compatibility with some external monitors may vary. - Enhancements include a persistent calculator and pinning options in the Command Palette, manual remaps in the Keyboard Manager, scrolling capture in ZoomIt, and a WinUI3 update for Image Resizer.
'Obviously we love the PC,' Gabe Newell told us 15 years ago, but his focus was on 'a responsibility to gamers and game developers'
AppWizard
April 28, 2026

‘Obviously we love the PC,’ Gabe Newell told us 15 years ago, but his focus was on ‘a responsibility to gamers and game developers’

Steam is the dominant platform in PC gaming, with Gabe Newell, co-founder of Valve, emphasizing a customer-centric approach focused on gamers and developers rather than a duty to represent the entire PC gaming ecosystem. He remains optimistic about PC gaming's vitality, citing 350 million PCs sold in the previous year. Valve has maintained its foundational principles despite the rise of cloud streaming, introducing features like Steam Greenlight and allowing any developer to publish games on the platform, though this has led to controversy over content moderation. Challenges to the value proposition of PC gaming include rising RAM demand and economic factors, while the Steam Machine initiative aims to bring PC gaming into living rooms despite concerns over pricing. Overall, high console prices reinforce the appeal of PC gaming in the current market.
Google plans to highlight apps that work well on foldable phones and tablets
AppWizard
April 28, 2026

Google plans to highlight apps that work well on foldable phones and tablets

Google introduced Android 12L four years ago, tailored for larger screens on foldable phones and tablets. This led to optimizations in applications, with Google and Samsung enhancing their offerings, and third-party developers creating apps for these devices. The upcoming version 51.2 of Google Play Services will feature a badge identifying apps optimized for big-screen devices, helping users find suitable applications. This badge aims to increase visibility for these apps and encourage developer investment in the big-screen market. Additionally, Google plans to launch an Android-powered version of ChromeOS later this year, further promoting the use of big-screen devices.
Google Play will finally start spotlighting apps worthy of your big screen
AppWizard
April 28, 2026

Google Play will finally start spotlighting apps worthy of your big screen

Google Play Store will introduce a new badge system in version 51.2 to highlight apps optimized for larger screens, such as tablets and foldable devices. This update aims to improve user experience by making it easier to find applications that utilize larger displays effectively. The badge will indicate well-suited apps, helping users avoid poorly adapted ones. Additional enhancements include an expanded view of app content ratings, streamlined installation processes, easier access to Collections for tablet users, and the ability to review subscription plans within app ratings and reviews. These features are part of Google's commitment to enhancing big-screen experiences in the Android ecosystem.
Here's How Microsoft's New Windows Insider Channels Work
Winsage
April 28, 2026

Here’s How Microsoft’s New Windows Insider Channels Work

Microsoft has transformed its Windows Insider program by introducing three new channels: Experimental, Beta, and Release Preview. The Experimental channel combines the previous Dev and Canary options, allowing users to test new features with less stability. The Beta channel has been updated to ensure all users receive the same features simultaneously, eliminating gradual rollouts. The Release Preview channel offers the least risk, providing access to updates before their official release. Users now have more control over the features they trial, with the ability to enable or disable specific features through a new "Feature flags" page. Additionally, switching between channels has been simplified, allowing smoother transitions without needing a complete PC wipe, except when moving to the Experimental Future Platforms channel.
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