macOS Archives

Winsage

August 3, 2026

Can Microsoft Really Make Windows 11 Suck Less on Weak PCs?

Microsoft is refining Windows 11 to improve user experience by reducing unnecessary AI integration, enhancing control over widgets and taskbar configurations, and streamlining File Explorer. The company aims to decrease the operating system's memory usage, particularly for devices with 8GB of RAM, addressing concerns about excessive memory consumption. Historically, Microsoft recommended 16GB of RAM for new PCs, but rising prices have led to a shift towards lower RAM configurations to attract budget-conscious consumers. For example, Dell offers an XPS 13 with 8GB of memory for 9, while a model with 16GB costs ,299. The minimum requirement for Windows 11 is 4GB of RAM, which is barely sufficient to run the OS. Microsoft is working on optimizing the OS by remaking components to reduce reliance on the memory-intensive WebView2 and implementing a more efficient memory allocator. These enhancements aim to improve the experience for users with 8GB laptops, but potential buyers must decide between purchasing a less powerful machine or investing in a more capable system.

Winsage

August 3, 2026

Linux didn’t just eat 10% of Windows market share, AI bots are inflating the numbers

The Linux desktop market share has not exceeded 10% in North America, and Windows is not experiencing a significant loss of users. Recent claims about Linux's market share reaching over 10% are based on misinterpreted data from StatCounter, which tracks page views rather than actual users. StatCounter's methodology can lead to inflated Linux numbers due to increased bot activity. In July 2026, it was reported that Windows market share remained above 60%. Cloudflare Radar also noted a spike in Linux usage, but this was largely attributed to automated traffic, with human-only traffic showing Linux at approximately 4.7%. Microsoft reports that Windows 11 is currently operating on 1.6 billion PCs.

Tech Optimizer

August 3, 2026

How to Turn Off McAfee

McAfee provides various cybersecurity features, including real-time antivirus protection, firewalls, VPNs, and browser extensions. Users can adjust settings based on their device. To pause real-time scanning on Windows, open the McAfee app, click on My Protection Widgets, select Real-Time Scanning, and turn it off. For Mac, click the McAfee icon in the menu bar, access the product console, and turn off Real-Time Scanning. To shut down the Advanced Firewall, open the McAfee app, select Advanced Firewall, and turn it off. Scheduled scans can be stopped by navigating to Scheduled Scans in the McAfee app and using the Turn off control. To turn off Secure VPN, open the app, find the Secure VPN tile, and toggle it off. For disabling McAfee WebAdvisor in browsers, users should manage extensions in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. To stop notifications and alerts, users can adjust settings in Windows and various browsers. Uninstalling McAfee involves navigating through the device's settings, and to stop renewal billing, users must log in to their McAfee account and disable auto-renewal. Users should be aware of older and managed-device guides and how to stop notifications on mobile devices. Disabling features does not uninstall McAfee, and turning off auto-renewal does not remove the application from the device.

Winsage

August 2, 2026

Former Microsoft dev brings Windows Task Manager to Mac

Dave W. Plummer, the original developer of the Windows Task Manager, has launched a beta project called Task Manager OG (TMOG) as an alternative to macOS's Activity Monitor. TMOG is built from scratch using Swift and does not contain any code from Windows XP. Microsoft provided Plummer with the source code of the XP Task Manager, but TMOG is independent. Initially intended for distribution through the Mac App Store, TMOG will instead be available for direct download due to Apple's sandboxing restrictions and guidelines against terminating other applications. Plummer plans to develop a Windows version and potentially a Pro version in the future.

Winsage

August 2, 2026

5 Reasons Why People Are Ditching Windows 11

Many users have embraced Windows 11, but a significant portion remains loyal to Windows 10 or is exploring alternative operating systems. Performance issues on older laptops with 4-8 GB of RAM are a primary concern, as Windows 11's background processes consume more memory than Windows 10, leading to slowdowns. Users have reported that even supported devices experience performance dips. Methods to enhance Windows 11 performance exist, but many users prefer lightweight alternatives like Linux and ChromeOS Flex, which often provide improved performance. Windows 11 is criticized for its bloatware, with pre-installed software occupying storage space and consuming resources. Users find the interface cluttered and the search functionality inefficient, prompting some to stick with Windows 10 or consider alternatives like Linux or macOS. The update process in Windows 11 has become frustrating due to buggy updates, leading users to delay updates and consider operating systems with more stable update experiences. AI integration in Windows 11 has not been universally appreciated, with some users feeling it is forced and expressing a desire for Microsoft to focus on performance and reliability instead. Data collection practices in Windows 11 have raised privacy concerns, causing some users to hesitate in upgrading from Windows 10. The requirement for a Microsoft account during setup complicates the experience for those who prefer privacy, prompting them to explore other operating systems that prioritize user privacy.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Ambitious gamer turns fanless Subway menu PCs into gaming rigs — passive Intel Core i3 units manage just 15 fps in GTA V and 25 fps in Minecraft

Garkus repurposed three Advantech DS-081 mini PCs, previously used by Subway, which are powered by Intel Core i3 6100U processors with Intel HD Graphics 520 and originally had 4GB of RAM, later upgraded to 8GB. The mini PCs were designed for continuous operation in temperatures from 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F) and initially ran Windows in kiosk mode. Garkus tested various operating systems, including Bazzite Linux and macOS Monterey. He successfully ran Peggle but struggled with Grand Theft Auto V, which averaged around 15 fps and experienced long load times and crashes. Testing Mario Kart Wii emulation and Minecraft yielded inconsistent results, with Minecraft hovering around 25 fps. Garkus concluded that the mini PCs are better suited for emulating older consoles, particularly up to the PlayStation 2 and original Xbox era, recommending lighter games and lower settings for a smoother experience.

Winsage

July 31, 2026

The man behind Windows’ Task Manager says Apple’s Activity Monitor “blows”, so he’s releasing his own

Dave Plummer is developing a macOS Task Manager app, planning to release it on the App Store with a free beta. He may also publish it as a git repository if he loses interest. Plummer is dissatisfied with the existing Activity Monitor and aims to create a more powerful tool. He has not provided a specific timeline for the app's release.

Winsage

July 29, 2026

Microsoft Intune Adds macOS Compliance and Samsung Update Controls

Microsoft's July Intune update includes enhancements for IT administrators, such as real-time monitoring of Windows device sync progress, custom compliance settings for macOS, and improved firmware update management for Samsung devices. The Intune admin center now allows real-time monitoring of sync progress for Windows devices, enabling simultaneous updates across various management aspects. Custom compliance settings for macOS enable organizations to define specific compliance requirements beyond Apple's standard checks, allowing for a unified compliance management experience across Windows, Linux, and macOS. The update also enhances Samsung Galaxy firmware management through Samsung Knox E-FOTA, allowing administrators to control firmware version deployment and update schedules. Additionally, the update clarifies that newer Windows Autopilot methods allow provisioning of Windows 11 devices without prior registration.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

Minecraft’s system requirements are being raised for the first time in 17 years.

Mojang Studios has updated the system requirements for Minecraft: Java Edition for the first time in 17 years. The recommended memory requirement has increased from 4GB to 16GB. The new minimum requirements for Full HD resolution (1920x1080) at 30 frames per second (fps) include a CPU with four or more cores, a GPU supporting Vulkan 1.3 with at least 2GB of VRAM, and 8GB of memory for dedicated GPUs or 12GB for integrated GPUs. The recommended specifications for 60fps with 'Fancy' graphics settings include 16GB of RAM and 6GB or more of VRAM, with suggested GPUs like the GeForce RTX 2060 or Radeon RX 5600 XT. The old and new requirements show significant increases in memory and processing power, with the new minimum requirements including Windows 10 or 11, macOS 12 or later, and various CPU and GPU specifications. While systems not meeting the new minimum can still run the game, performance may vary, and future updates may affect compatibility. The update is part of a transition to Vulkan technology for improved performance and functionality.

AppWizard

July 29, 2026

‘Minecraft’ Official PC Requirement Now Raises Recommended Specs After Over 17 Years

Mojang has updated the minimum and recommended system requirements for "Minecraft: Java Edition." The new minimum requirements include a 64-bit system, 8GB of RAM with a discrete GPU (or 12GB with integrated graphics), a 4-core processor, a Vulkan 1.3-capable GPU with at least 2GB of VRAM, and compatible operating systems (Windows 10 64-bit, Windows on ARM, macOS 12 or later, Linux 64-bit) to support 1080p resolution at 30 FPS using the Fast preset. The updated recommended requirements include 16GB of RAM, a stronger processor, a graphics card with 6GB of VRAM, and compatible operating systems (Windows 11 64-bit, macOS 14 or later, Linux 64-bit) to aim for 1080p at 60 FPS using the Fancy preset. Mojang emphasizes that these new specifications are modest compared to many modern AAA titles and aim to provide players with a clearer understanding of the hardware needed for optimal performance. The update does not affect "Minecraft: Bedrock Edition" and players with older setups may still launch the game, but performance cannot be guaranteed.