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There are too many Windows laptops, and I can't blame Microsoft for confusing choices — but there are ways it could help us all
Winsage
June 15, 2026

There are too many Windows laptops, and I can’t blame Microsoft for confusing choices — but there are ways it could help us all

The author has experience building Windows desktops but has recognized the practicality of Windows laptops due to frequent travel. They have a shortlist of preferred models, including the ASUS Zenbook A14 and Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x, but acknowledge that many consumers opt for cheaper laptops available in stores. The introduction of entry-level models like the MacBook Neo has shifted the conversation around Windows laptops. There is confusion among consumers regarding specifications, such as RAM and battery longevity, which are often overwhelming. The author suggests that a certified 'Windows Pro' laptop could guarantee features like a 120Hz display and 32GB of RAM, while a budget-friendly 'Windows Core' option could focus on IPS screens with at least 16GB of memory. There are concerns about consumer perception of non-certified products and the need for better education in the market.
Microsoft is reportedly testing Copilot+ AI features with discrete GPUs instead of NPUs — a feature available on Windows App SDK with a Windows Insider Experimental Channel build and Developer Mode turned on
Winsage
June 15, 2026

Microsoft is reportedly testing Copilot+ AI features with discrete GPUs instead of NPUs — a feature available on Windows App SDK with a Windows Insider Experimental Channel build and Developer Mode turned on

Copilot PCs were introduced by Microsoft in 2024 to integrate advanced AI capabilities into personal computing. An experimental Windows App SDK is now available on GitHub, allowing users to run Language Model APIs on supported Nvidia GeForce RTX 30-series GPUs with a minimum of 6GB of VRAM. This capability requires a Windows Insider Experimental Channel and Developer Mode activation, enabling local AI inferencing on devices without dedicated NPU hardware. Microsoft's shift from promoting Copilot+ PCs may be influenced by fluctuating RAM prices and aims to make AI functionalities more accessible to a broader user base. In 2024, a research firm noted that consumer interest in AI PCs was driven by the need to upgrade to available models, a trend continuing into 2026 due to a shortage of memory and storage chips, resulting in rising computer prices and declining sales of PCs and components. Projections indicate that entry-level laptops may disappear by 2028. The lack of consumer interest in NPU-equipped PCs could impede the adoption of Copilot+ features, prompting Microsoft to expand AI functionalities to non-Copilot+ devices to enhance its user base and differentiate Windows 11 from competitors like macOS and Linux.
Microsoft released the Windows 11 Secure Boot update for all PCs, how to verify yours
Winsage
June 15, 2026

Microsoft released the Windows 11 Secure Boot update for all PCs, how to verify yours

Microsoft has expanded the rollout of the Secure Boot 2023 certificate update to more Windows 11 and Windows 10 devices with the June 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5094126). This update aims to ensure that most supported consumer PCs are classified as high confidence, meaning necessary certificates are either installed or will be applied automatically. Secure Boot is a firmware security feature that verifies the software attempting to load during the startup process, blocking unauthorized software. The certificates supporting Secure Boot, issued in 2011, are expiring in stages starting June 24, 2026, prompting Microsoft to deploy replacement certificates. Most home users do not need to take manual action as the updates will occur automatically via Windows Update. Users can check their Secure Boot certificate status in the Windows Security app. A yellow warning indicates pending compatibility data, while a red alert suggests a firmware incompatibility requiring a BIOS update. Multiple reboots during the update process are normal, and a new SecureBoot folder in Windows is for staging cryptographic files. Older PCs may experience longer update times, and some may not receive updates due to firmware issues. HP users should check for BIOS updates if encountering BitLocker recovery loops. IT administrators should monitor device classifications and manually initiate updates for devices not in the high confidence category. Devices with Secure Boot disabled cannot receive updates, leaving them vulnerable. The expiration of the Microsoft Corporation KEK CA 2011 certificate on June 24 does not immediately affect device functionality, but it limits Microsoft's ability to sign new bootkit blacklist updates.
When Windows 7 Arrived in Japan, It Came Printed on Toilet Paper
Winsage
June 14, 2026

When Windows 7 Arrived in Japan, It Came Printed on Toilet Paper

On October 22, 2009, Japan launched Windows 7, accompanied by a unique promotional item: a roll of toilet paper featuring Windows 7 branding and details about its enhancements. This marketing strategy was similar to the previous promotion for Windows Vista Service Pack 1. The toilet paper included messages about Windows 7's speed, security, and compatibility improvements, with sections detailing faster startup times, enhanced memory management, a streamlined user interface, and security features like the Action Center and BitLocker To Go. Networking capabilities were improved with HomeGroup, and Windows Media Center expanded its functionality. The design of the promotional toilet paper allowed users to revisit key points easily, and some versions mimicked Windows software boxes. This initiative was driven by local retailers, reflecting Japan's trend of quirky promotions in the electronics retail sector.
On this day: Microsoft’s 2016 Android‑Windows app port plan predicted today’s AI ecosystem
AppWizard
June 14, 2026

On this day: Microsoft’s 2016 Android‑Windows app port plan predicted today’s AI ecosystem

Microsoft has been working on bridging the gap between Android and Windows 10 for over a decade, initially encouraging developers to port applications and integrate notifications through Cortana. As of 2026, Microsoft's AI strategy continues to focus on cross-platform compatibility, evolving from earlier projects like Astoria and Cortana. Recently, Microsoft introduced a "request app" functionality in Windows 10 that allows users to suggest apps for the Windows Store directly from notifications on their Android smartphones. This feature was first identified by a Reddit user and directs users to a UserVoice page for app recommendations. Notification syncing between Android and Windows 10 is currently limited to Insider builds of 'Redstone', and the request feature has shown some inconsistencies.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 14, 2026

You can download Planescape: Torment’s unofficial DLC mod right now

Blizzard in Baator is a fan-driven initiative aimed at expanding Planescape: Torment, featuring new narratives, cinematics, music, and characters, including recruitable companions. Players can explore new locations like the Frozen Wastes of Cania, with the first act now available. The project is described as "significantly bigger than Siege of Dragonspear" and will be released in multiple parts. The mod is recommended to be downloaded from Github for easier installation, and new quests are designed for players controlling a Nameless One at around level 16. Players can load an existing save or start anew to prepare for the challenges. The unique design of Sigil enhances the game's allure, though some players are frustrated by limitations in gameplay mechanics. The unofficial expansion provides an opportunity to revisit the world of Planescape: Torment.
Dying Light 2 is a platform now, as the Breach update opens up Techland's zombie survival game 'even more to UGC content'
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

Dying Light 2 is a platform now, as the Breach update opens up Techland’s zombie survival game ‘even more to UGC content’

Techland has been enhancing Dying Light 2 since its launch in 2022, reworking the parkour system, introducing Volatiles, and improving combat mechanics. The game now features New Game+ and replayable bounties. The latest update, "The Breach," aims to enhance modding and user-generated content (UGC) capabilities, allowing players to create and share their own content. After completing the Prologue, players meet characters Tolga and Fatin, who provide tools for UGC experiences. Official mods include a third-person mode and a low-gravity mode, with community-created content like "The Atomborne" and "Dead Circuit." Dying Light 2 has a daily concurrent player count in the low thousands, which is respectable for a four-year-old single-player game but lower than other successful titles. The potential for a vibrant UGC community exists, especially as it may appeal to younger players compared to other platforms facing scrutiny.
PC Game With STALKER Vibes Free to Keep Until June 19
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

PC Game With STALKER Vibes Free to Keep Until June 19

PC gamers can expand their gaming libraries for free through various digital storefronts. Steam has a Free to Keep promotion showcasing games from smaller developers. Itch.io and the Epic Games Store also offer free games, with the Epic Games Store known for its weekly promotions featuring popular titles. The current landscape of free game offerings on PC is diverse, providing a wide range of interesting titles for gamers.
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