landscape Archives

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Why Windows 11 keeps 64-bit files in System32 and 32-bit files in SysWOW64, according to Microsoft

Microsoft does not produce a 32-bit edition of Windows 11 but supports 32-bit applications through two system folders: System32 for 64-bit files and SysWOW64 for 32-bit files. The WOW64 file system redirector directs 32-bit applications to SysWOW64 when they request System32. On a Windows 11 26H2 system, both folders contain kernel32.dll, but the files differ in size. The System32 folder contains files corresponding to the operating system's architecture, while SysWOW64 is reserved for 32-bit applications. A 32-bit process cannot load a 64-bit DLL, necessitating the WOW64 redirection. There are six subfolders within System32 that 32-bit applications can access without redirection. Microsoft has announced that 32-bit Arm applications will no longer be supported on Arm PCs, and only x86 applications will continue to operate through Prism emulation.

Winsage

October 21, 2026

Windows 10 users were right: Windows 11 still can’t drag the taskbar, so Microsoft is testing a menu instead

Windows 10 allowed users to drag the taskbar to any screen edge, a feature missing in Windows 11, which initially frustrated users. Microsoft is currently testing a new right-click menu in Insider Preview Build 26340.9750 that enables users to reposition the taskbar without accessing the Settings menu. This menu includes buttons for moving the taskbar to the left, top, right, or bottom of the screen. Although the menu is available in the Experimental channel, it remains hidden from casual users and has not been officially announced. Testing confirmed that the taskbar can be moved smoothly between positions, although some minor inconsistencies with the Start menu were noted. The right-click menu concept has been in development for some time, as indicated by a previously deleted video from a Microsoft engineer. Users previously had to navigate through Settings to change the taskbar position, and while Microsoft reintroduced some movement capabilities, the process is still cumbersome. The auto-hide feature is only available when the taskbar is at the bottom, limiting customization options. Microsoft is also exploring additional features, including different taskbar positions per monitor and the potential return of drag-and-drop functionality.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

People Are Vibe Coding the Ads Out of Their Smart TVs: Here’s How

A developer enhanced the user experience on his parents' Xiaomi TV by disabling 25 pre-installed packages, creating a home screen similar to that of an Apple TV. This effort is part of his open-source project, cleanyourtv, which is compatible with 107 TV models across 37 brands. The tools used allow users to deactivate apps without permanently deleting them, enabling easy restoration. The project has gained popularity, with thousands of users applying similar techniques, improving their TVs' performance and functionality. Users have reported freeing up memory and customizing their devices creatively, while concerns about privacy and data collection from smart TVs continue to be raised. The cleanyourtv repository is expanding with community contributions, reflecting a shift towards user control in smart technology.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

Personal Intelligence hits the road: Google brings Gemini’s tailored assistance to Android Auto

Google plans to integrate its Gemini's Personal Intelligence into vehicles equipped with Android Auto, enhancing the driving experience by providing personalized assistance similar to that on Android phones. The feature will allow the AI to connect to Workspace apps, Gmail, Photos, and Search for tailored help, and can resume previous conversations, find restaurants, and provide directions. The rollout of Personal Intelligence for Android Auto will begin in the coming months, allowing users who have set it up on their phones to enjoy the same experience in their vehicles without additional configuration. Users can also set it up through the Gemini settings if they haven't done so already. Since its debut in January, Gemini's Personal Intelligence has been introduced across various platforms, offering intuitive and contextually relevant interactions, such as meal suggestions based on dietary restrictions and assistance with vehicle-related inquiries.

AppWizard

October 21, 2026

An unofficial Android app blacks out your phone screen, but not your Xreal glasses

An unofficial Android application called "Glasses Mode" has been released, allowing users of USB-C display glasses to blank their phone's screen and disable touch input while the glasses continue to display content. The app, which requires Android 14 or newer, was released on October 18 and is currently available for testing on the OPPO Find N6 with Android 16 and ColorOS. It works with any USB-C glasses that mirror a phone's display and employs a technique that attaches a black layer to the phone’s display to keep the mirrored display on the glasses active. Users can activate the mode with a double-tap of the volume buttons, and the app does not require rooting or a PC for installation. The application is not available on the Play Store and must be downloaded as an APK from the project's releases page. Unplugging the glasses automatically disables the mode, and the app is designed to work with devices that may have varying compatibility.

Tech Optimizer

October 20, 2026

Why you can finally stop paying for antivirus software? – Innovation Village

Since the launch of Windows 8 in 2012, Microsoft has integrated antivirus protection into the operating system, making it unnecessary for users to pay for essential protection. Microsoft Defender Antivirus has improved significantly, achieving a score of 6 out of 6 in AV-Test's July–August 2026 results, successfully detecting 100 percent of threats. Modern cyber threats primarily involve social engineering rather than traditional viruses, prompting third-party antivirus companies to offer core protection as a free tier while promoting premium subscriptions with additional features. Many users find that third-party antivirus software can degrade their computing experience due to nagware, performance hits, and inferior bundled tools compared to standalone services. Microsoft Defender, along with modern web browsers that provide anti-phishing security, is sufficient for most users.

Winsage

October 20, 2026

“We expect more from ourselves, too”: Microsoft’s design boss of Windows 11 admits the OS needs work, while AI is helping his team fix its inconsistencies

Diego Baca, Microsoft's Vice President of Product Design, discussed the company's use of artificial intelligence to enhance design processes, noting that AI has significantly accelerated the productivity of the design team and enabled designers to contribute directly to code fixes for improved quality and consistency. He acknowledged the ongoing issue of design consistency in Windows 11 and recognized user expectations for a more cohesive experience, expressing a commitment to improvement. Baca's remarks reflect a shift towards greater transparency in addressing user concerns and invite dialogue about user experiences and expectations.

Winsage

October 20, 2026

$35 Gets You Lifetime Access to Microsoft Office Pro 2021 and Windows 11 Pro

The Ultimate Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows Lifetime License and Windows 11 Pro Bundle is available for .97, down from 9.99, until November 1. This bundle includes Windows 11 Pro, which features security tools like BitLocker and Hyper-V, and Office Professional 2021, which contains applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The software is licensed for installation on a single Windows PC with no recurring subscription fees, contrasting with Microsoft 365 Personal, which costs .99 annually. Digital license keys are delivered promptly for easy setup.

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Coming to XBOX Game Pass: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, The Séance of Blake Manor, and More

- Sandustry (Game Preview) (PC) – October 21: Available with Game Pass Premium, Ultimate, and PC Game Pass. - Dodo Duckie (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 22: Accessible through Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - Scramble Knights Online (Game Preview) (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 26: Available on day one with XBOX Game Pass. - The Séance of Blake Manor (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 27: Included in Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 29: Part of Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted (Cloud, Console, and PC) – October 29: Available for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. - Terrible Lizards (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – October 29: Launching on day one with XBOX Game Pass. - Pit of Goblin (Cloud, XBOX Series X|S, and PC) – November 3: Included in Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass. - The Elder Scrolls Online: Season 2 Update: Echoes of Skyrim – October 21: Includes new solo dungeons and gameplay enhancements. - The Finals: Welcome Pack – Available Now: Accessible to Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Essential, and PC Game Pass subscribers. - World of Tanks Modern Armor: XP Stock – November 3: Available for Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, Game Pass Essential, and PC Game Pass. - Leaving October 31: Day of the Tentacle Remastered, Dead Static Drive, Deep Rock Galactic, Full Throttle Remastered, Grim Fandango Remastered, Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, Wartales, Wildgate. - Leaving November 10: Football Manager 26 (PC) and Football Manager 26 – Console Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC).

AppWizard

October 20, 2026

Can’t miss alerts: Android Auto might support ‘Work Accounts’ for busy drivers

Google is developing a "Work Account" feature for Android Auto, which will allow users to separate personal and professional apps and notifications while driving. This feature will include a toggle in the Quick Settings. Additionally, a recent update has improved the Play Store interface and enhanced YouTube playback to switch to audio-only mode when the vehicle is in motion. Some users, particularly with foldable devices like the Motorola Razr, have reported issues with notification alerts not coming through unless the device is opened. Motorola and Google are addressing these concerns and providing assistance to affected users.