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Valve Says 67.74% of Steam Users Are Now on Windows 11
Winsage
May 4, 2026

Valve Says 67.74% of Steam Users Are Now on Windows 11

67.74% of Steam users have transitioned to Windows 11 as of April 2026, with a month-over-month increase of 0.89 points. Windows 10 holds 25.63% of the market share, creating a gap of over 40 percentage points between the two operating systems. Windows 11's adoption on Steam has grown from 41.95% in December 2023 to 70.83% in December 2025. A notable drop in Windows 11 usage occurred in February 2026, but the April statistics indicate a recovery. The shift to Windows 11 is influencing developer decisions regarding DirectX 12 and optimizations for the operating system.
Microsoft says it'll simpilify Windows 11's Edge browser by removing features like Sidebar, pledges to win back users
Winsage
May 4, 2026

Microsoft says it’ll simpilify Windows 11’s Edge browser by removing features like Sidebar, pledges to win back users

Microsoft is removing the Sidebar feature from Microsoft Edge, starting with users of Microsoft accounts (MSA), though no specific timeline has been provided. The Sidebar, which allowed users to integrate web apps like Outlook and Bing, will no longer support adding new apps, and its quick access list will be gradually removed. The Copilot feature within the Sidebar will remain unaffected. CEO Satya Nadella stated that Microsoft is committed to enhancing user engagement across its platforms, including Edge, which has gained market share for 20 consecutive quarters.
Microsoft's CEO promised the world to consumers in a speech about fixing Windows 11 — but one thing Satya Nadella said worries me
Winsage
May 3, 2026

Microsoft’s CEO promised the world to consumers in a speech about fixing Windows 11 — but one thing Satya Nadella said worries me

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reaffirmed the company's commitment to enhancing Windows 11 during a recent earnings call, emphasizing a focus on quality and serving core users better. He also expressed a commitment to Xbox and changes to Game Pass in response to customer feedback. Nadella mentioned that Windows now has over 1.6 billion active devices globally, highlighting its dominance in the desktop market. However, he faced criticism for including Bing and Edge in the consumer-focused dialogue, as their relevance to average consumers is questionable. Concerns were raised about upselling tactics within Windows 11, which some users find intrusive.
Changing This One Windows Setting Can Make File Explorer Run Much Better
Winsage
April 23, 2026

Changing This One Windows Setting Can Make File Explorer Run Much Better

Windows 11's File Explorer has been criticized for sluggish performance, with users experiencing unresponsive commands and crashes. Windows 10 still retains over 30% of the desktop Windows market share despite being out of support. Disabling the "Automatic Folder Type Discovery" feature can enhance File Explorer's speed. This feature scans folders and assigns view types based on contents, which can slow down access, especially in folders with many files. To disable it, users must back up the Registry and navigate to a specific path in the Registry Editor to create a new string value named "FolderType" with the value "NotSpecified." After making this change, users will notice improved loading speed, but folders will display a generic view instead of one tailored to specific file types.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
April 19, 2026

Zorin OS 18.1 adds guided migrations, stronger app compatibility and wider hardware support, making switching from Windows far more practical for millions [clone]

Zorin OS has released version 18.1, enhancing hardware compatibility and introducing fingerprint reader support for older devices. The update recommends native Linux alternatives when detecting Windows applications, making it easier for users transitioning from Windows. Since the end of support for Windows 10, Zorin OS has gained popularity, reaching 3.3 million downloads. The update supports over 240 Windows applications, suggesting compatible Linux versions, and includes improvements to desktop features and pre-installed applications. Zorin Lite has also been updated to version 17.3 with fingerprint reader support and a redesigned File Manager. Meanwhile, Windows 11 is facing challenges in adoption due to hardware requirements and design issues, prompting discussions about the potential need for Windows 12. Alternative operating systems like Zorin OS are becoming more appealing to users dissatisfied with Windows.
Linux promises freedom from Windows, but it demands something harder in return
Winsage
April 18, 2026

Linux promises freedom from Windows, but it demands something harder in return

The author has over two decades of experience with Linux, initially using it on a netbook during postgraduate studies. Linux is seen as a viable alternative to Windows, though its market share growth is slow. Recent gains in Linux's desktop market share are attributed to dissatisfaction with Windows, particularly due to unpopular AI features and disruptive updates from Microsoft. The increasing compatibility of Windows games with Linux has also helped. Linux addresses some issues associated with Windows, such as the absence of advertising and telemetry, and offers greater control over installations, which can improve performance on older hardware. However, users may face challenges with the variety of Linux distributions, leading to confusion and decision fatigue. Transitioning to Linux requires significant time and effort, as users must navigate a fragmented landscape without centralized support.
"Over 3.3 million downloads": This Linux alternative to Windows 11 is winning over Microsoft's customers with a huge update
Winsage
April 17, 2026

“Over 3.3 million downloads”: This Linux alternative to Windows 11 is winning over Microsoft’s customers with a huge update

Zorin OS, a Linux-based operating system, launched late last year alongside Microsoft's decision to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, leading to approximately 780,000 users migrating to Linux and a surge in Zorin OS downloads to 1 million. Three months later, Zorin OS 18 was released, increasing downloads to 2 million, and six months post-launch, total downloads reached 3.3 million. The latest version, Zorin OS 18.1, includes new features and improved hardware support, expanding its database to support over 240 Windows applications. Zorin Lite has also been updated to version 17.3, designed for older computers, featuring support for fingerprint readers and a redesigned File Manager. Meanwhile, Windows 11 has struggled with adoption due to strict hardware requirements but is gaining traction after the end-of-life status of Windows 10. Microsoft is working to improve user sentiment around Windows 11 by allowing users to bypass updates during setup and reintroducing features like a movable Taskbar. Some experts suggest that Microsoft should focus on developing Windows 12 instead of enhancing Windows 11, as significant improvements may require more drastic changes. Alternative operating systems like Zorin OS are becoming increasingly appealing to users dissatisfied with Windows.
Microsoft Is Already Pulling Back On Its Windows Copilot AI Push
Winsage
April 14, 2026

Microsoft Is Already Pulling Back On Its Windows Copilot AI Push

Microsoft is focusing on artificial intelligence in Windows amid user complaints about Windows 11, including issues with File Explorer, performance, and visual glitches. This shift coincides with the launch of Apple's budget-friendly MacBook Neo, which poses a threat to Microsoft's market share in the affordable laptop segment. Apple has a strong supply chain that allows it to offer a premium experience at lower prices. While Apple is developing its Apple Intelligence suite with limited AI tools and has partnered with Google to enhance Siri, it lacks a proprietary AI foundation model. Microsoft needs to ensure that new Windows 11 laptop owners, particularly those with budget models, do not experience performance issues or intrusive advertisements. The company has previously addressed user dissatisfaction after Windows Vista and Windows 8, raising questions about its ability to restore confidence in Windows 11.
Norton (durch Symantec Übernahme teilweise verknüpft, aber Marke liegt bei Gen Digital. Broadcom i
Tech Optimizer
April 14, 2026

Norton (durch Symantec Übernahme teilweise verknüpft, aber Marke liegt bei Gen Digital. Broadcom i

Norton, owned by Gen Digital, provides antivirus software, VPN services, and identity theft monitoring to protect users from cyber threats such as malware and phishing attacks. The company emphasizes subscription-based revenue through Norton 360, which bundles various security features, ensuring predictable cash flow. Norton competes with other antivirus brands like McAfee and Bitdefender, maintaining a strong market share in North America due to its established brand trust. The demand for cybersecurity tools is driven by rising cyber threats, including ransomware attacks and increased remote work, which necessitate robust online protection. Gen Digital is investing in AI-driven threat detection and expanding its offerings to address evolving security needs. However, Norton faces challenges from free alternatives, potential privacy concerns, and macroeconomic pressures that could affect consumer spending on security products.
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