location history Archives

Winsage

March 27, 2025

Windows 11 KB5053656 update released with 38 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the KB5053656 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, featuring 38 enhancements, including real-time translation capabilities for Copilot+ PCs with AMD and Intel processors. This update addresses authentication issues and blue-screen errors, and is classified as an "optional non-security preview update." It introduces live captions and real-time translation support for over 44 languages, enhances Windows Search with improved capabilities, and fixes issues related to the MsiCloseHandle API and boot menu entries. The update also phases out the Location History feature and acknowledges known issues affecting Citrix components and Roblox on Windows Arm devices. Users can install the update via Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update upgrades systems to build 26100.3624. Windows 11 24H2 is broadly deployed and accessible to all users.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Google Maps might predict more than just the traffic for you soon

Google Maps is testing new features that will enhance user experience by providing real-time updates on parking availability, fuel-efficient routes, and estimated time of arrival (ETA) directly from the initial overview screen after entering a destination. Currently, users can only see traffic conditions, distance, and travel time. The new features will allow users to view parking availability marked by a "P" icon, fuel-efficient route options, and precise ETA. These enhancements aim to improve trip planning and are expected to be included in future app updates. Additionally, some users have reported issues with their Timeline history disappearing from the web version, possibly due to a shift in how Google stores location history.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

How to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why it’s important to do so)

To optimize your Windows computer's performance, ensure your operating system is fully updated. If updates are current, utilize built-in utilities to reclaim disk space. For Windows 11, access "Cleanup recommendations" by clicking the Start button, selecting Settings, navigating to System, and then Storage. This feature lists temporary files in your Downloads folder and Recycle Bin, which can be deleted to free up space. It also recommends removing large or unused files. Use the Disk Cleanup utility by searching for "Disk Cleanup" in the search bar to identify and delete temporary internet files, setup log files, and cache files. To clear your PC's location cache, go to Settings, select Privacy and Security, scroll to "Location history," and click "Clear." To flush the DNS cache, press the Windows key + R, type ipconfig/flushdns, and press Enter. Regular file management and cleanup can significantly enhance system performance over time.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

How to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn’t wait to do it)

For a digital refresh on a cluttered desktop and sluggish performance, users should keep their Windows operating system updated and utilize built-in utilities to enhance performance. Windows 11 offers a tool under Settings > System > Storage > "Cleanup recommendations" that identifies large files, unused applications, and system files for removal. The Disk Cleanup utility is accessible on all Windows versions by searching for "Disk Cleanup," which helps delete temporary internet files and cache files. To clear the location cache, navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > "Location history" and click "Clear." To flush the DNS cache, open the Run command window, type ipconfig/flushdns, and press Enter. Regular file management can significantly improve system performance.

Winsage

February 23, 2025

How to Clear Cache on Windows 11 to Free Up System Resources

A cluttered computer desktop can lead to a decline in performance, indicating the need for system cleanup. Regular maintenance enhances speed, storage space, and overall functionality. Windows has built-in tools for optimization, starting with ensuring the latest updates are installed. Windows 11 features "Cleanup Recommendations" to identify large files and unused applications for deletion. The Disk Cleanup utility can remove unnecessary files like temporary internet files and system cache files, recovering disk space and improving speed. Clearing the location cache and flushing the DNS cache can also enhance performance. Additional maintenance tips include regularly emptying the Recycle Bin, organizing files, uninstalling unused applications, using external storage for large files, and running malware scans.

Winsage

February 21, 2025

New Windows 11 preview build improves privacy for European users

Microsoft's latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, 26120.3281 (KB5052086), introduces several privacy-focused changes. The Location History API has been removed, meaning Windows will no longer retain location data locally. Additionally, the update removes "account-based content" from File Explorer sections for users of Entra ID, aligning with GDPR regulations and affecting only customers in the European Union. Other features include improved OneDrive document resumption between devices and updates to the Recall feature, which will delete existing Recall snapshots.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

Microsoft declutters Windows 11 File Explorer for GDPR

Microsoft released the Windows 11 24H2 preview build, 26120.3281, in the Dev and Beta channels, marking the end of the Location History API and addressing European privacy regulations. The Location History feature, which allowed Cortana to access location data for up to 24 hours, has been removed, meaning location data will no longer be saved locally. Microsoft has also disabled account-based content in File Explorer for Entra IDs within the European Economic Area (EEA) to comply with privacy laws, affecting sections like Recent, Favorites, and Recommended content. Additionally, a new feature will allow users to resume OneDrive files from mobile devices to PCs with one click, but an upcoming change will delete all existing snapshots in Recall. There is no timeline for when these updates will be available to the general public.

Winsage

February 15, 2025

Microsoft removes Windows 11 feature responsible for collecting and storing location data

Microsoft has begun deprecating certain features in Windows 11 in 2025, starting with the Location History feature, which has been used to collect and store location data for users. The Location History feature will be removed from the latest preview build for Dev and Beta insiders, meaning that location data will no longer be saved locally, and the corresponding settings will be removed from the Privacy & Security > Location page in Settings. Other recently deprecated features include Suggested Actions, Paint3D, and Legacy DRM services.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

This app will bring Galaxy SmartTag to all Android phones, assuming Samsung doesn’t shut it down

Samsung's Galaxy SmartTag is effective for item tracking, often outperforming Google’s Find My Device network, but is limited to Samsung Galaxy devices. A new app called “uTag” allows Galaxy SmartTags to be used with other Android smartphones by bypassing the device verification process. The app provides features such as item tracking on a map, location history, and ringing control, and can utilize Ultra Wideband technology for precise tracking. Users can enable integration with Samsung's network, receive alerts for unknown trackers, and access homescreen widgets. The app requires a Samsung account, which could pose concerns if Samsung intervenes. While Galaxy SmartTags are affordable, investing in them solely for use with “uTag” may be risky due to the app's uncertain longevity.

AppWizard

February 11, 2025

This app lets you use Samsung’s tracker tags with any Android phone

A new application named uTag allows the integration of Samsung SmartTags with any Android device. The app is free but requires a modified version of Samsung’s SmartThings app to function. uTag enables users to set up a new Galaxy SmartTag2, view its location in real-time, ring the tag, customize its ringtone, and alter button behavior. It provides notifications for unknown SmartTags, alerts when a tag is found or left behind, and allows sharing tags with family members. The app supports precision finding on devices with ultra-wideband (UWB) technology and includes features like widgets for tag locations, offline location viewing, biometric security options, and location history exporting. Users can contribute to the location data of nearby SmartTags. To use uTag, users must install a patched version of the SmartThings app, which the uTag app facilitates during setup. Users need to log into their Samsung account twice. The developer has made uTag open source for verification of its legitimacy. Initial user experiences have been positive, and the app is available for download on GitHub, compatible with Android devices running version 11 or later. Root access is not required, but rooted devices can use an Xposed module for live-patching the SmartThings app.