Live Tiles Archives

Winsage

May 5, 2025

I finally set up ExplorerPatcher on Windows, and I should have sooner

Windows 11 has received both praise and criticism, particularly regarding certain regressions compared to previous versions. ExplorerPatcher is a free tool that restores familiar features from Windows 10, such as the Start menu and taskbar. It allows users to revert to the Windows 10 Start menu, which is more efficient and includes a resizable pinned area and an All apps list. The taskbar is also transformed to resemble Windows 10, offering individual icons for functions and expanded customization options. Additionally, ExplorerPatcher revives the Ribbon UI in File Explorer, enhancing usability despite the loss of tab support. However, users may experience occasional bugs, and the last update was in November 2024, raising concerns about ongoing support.

Winsage

May 4, 2025

Microsoft says it accidentally broke Windows 10 Start menu, taskbar recent files feature

On April 22, Windows Latest reported that the jump list feature for live tiles in the Start menu was missing, a situation confirmed by Microsoft. This issue arose after updates released post-February 25, disrupting users' access to recently opened files or photos. The problem was linked to Microsoft's integration of a new Microsoft account control experience into the Start menu, which began with the Windows 10 KB5052077 optional update. Microsoft stated that this was not an intentional change and was under investigation. Following the April 2025 Update, the issue became more widespread. However, Microsoft has since rolled back the changes to the Start menu UI, restoring the recent section for affected users, and tests indicated that the jump list functionality has been reinstated across most devices.

Winsage

April 13, 2025

Windows 11 Deadline Approaches: Microsoft Offers 7 Reasons To Upgrade Now

In 2015, Microsoft launched Windows 10 with a decade of support, ending on October 14, 2025. The company is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, highlighting features such as a revamped Start Menu, Snap layouts for window organization, multiple desktops, widgets for personalized updates, Focus sessions for task management, Windows Hello for facial recognition login, and Dark Mode for eye comfort. After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive software updates. However, the reception of Microsoft's tips for upgrading has been mixed, with some critics describing the support document as lacking substance and containing inaccuracies.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

How has the Windows Start menu evolved? Looking back in time as Microsoft turns 50

In 2025, Microsoft will celebrate its 50th anniversary. The Start menu was first introduced in Windows 95 on August 24, 1995, replacing the "Program Manager" and providing a more intuitive user experience. Subsequent versions included refinements in Windows 98, minimal changes in Windows ME, a redesigned two-column layout in Windows XP, enhanced search functionality in Windows Vista, and updates in Windows 7 that included "Jump Lists." Windows 8 replaced the traditional Start menu with a full-screen Start screen, while Windows 10 reintroduced the Start menu with a hybrid design. Windows 11 featured a centered Taskbar and a simplified Start menu layout with static icons. Each iteration has aimed to balance innovation with user familiarity.

Winsage

October 13, 2024

Moving from Windows 10 to 11 – University of Hawaii Maui College

Microsoft is phasing out support for Windows 10, making the transition to Windows 11 essential for new features, enhanced security, and system compatibility. Key changes in Windows 11 include a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, removal of Live Tiles, a new design emphasizing pinned applications and a search bar, a revamped Action Center with Quick Settings and Notification Center, a refreshed File Explorer with updated icons, integrated Widgets, the ability to toggle between multiple desktops, and Snap Layouts for multitasking. Features removed from Windows 10 include Timeline and the Math Input Panel.

Winsage

August 24, 2024

Celebrating 29 years of Windows 95 — How Microsoft’s operating system evolved since the iconic Start menu was introduced

On August 24, 1995, Microsoft launched Windows 95, an operating system that significantly improved upon Windows 3.1. It introduced a user-friendly interface and the iconic Start menu, which has evolved but remains a key feature in modern versions like Windows 11. The Start menu organized applications and settings, making navigation intuitive for users. Windows 11's latest build, version 24H2, features a refined Start menu that serves as a central hub for apps and settings, reflecting the legacy of Windows 95. The Start menu's removal in future versions could provoke consumer backlash, highlighting its importance in the Windows experience.

Winsage

August 21, 2024

10 shocking reasons Windows 10 outshines Windows 11

- Windows 10 supports a broader range of older hardware compared to Windows 11's stringent system requirements. - Windows 10 offers more customization options than Windows 11. - Windows 10 has undergone extensive refinements since its launch in 2015, while Windows 11 is relatively new and faces challenges. - The Start Menu in Windows 10 is considered more usable than the simplified version in Windows 11. - Windows 10 provides greater control over update timing and installation compared to Windows 11's aggressive update policy. - Windows 10's tablet mode offers a smoother transition between desktop and tablet use than Windows 11's touch interface. - Windows 10 supports legacy applications better than Windows 11, making it preferable for users dependent on specific software. - Windows 10 maintains a familiar layout, providing stability and consistency for users. - Windows 10 allows the creation and use of local accounts, while Windows 11 encourages signing in with a Microsoft account. - Microsoft will support Windows 10 until October 2025, offering updates and security patches.

Winsage

July 7, 2024

Windows 10 and Windows 11 guide for Arizona techies

Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor with 2 cores, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage. To check if your computer meets the requirements, use the PC Health Check tool. Live tiles have been replaced with widgets in the Start menu, which can be personalized and customized. Touch screen enhancements and gaming improvements have been added. Windows 11 supports presence sensors for features like Lock on Leave and Wake on Approach. Security enhancements have been integrated into Windows 11, but additional protection through a third-party internet security package is still recommended.

Winsage

July 6, 2024

Data Doctors: Key differences between Windows 10 and 11 – WTOP News

Windows 10 requires a 64-bit processor with 1 GHz clock speed, 2GB RAM, and 20GB HDD, while Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor with 2 cores, 4GB RAM, and 64GB of storage.