media Archives

Winsage

July 21, 2026

Microsoft Releases New Windows 11 Security Update Fix For Dell Users

Microsoft has released an emergency out-of-band security update (KB5121767) for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2 due to performance issues caused by the July Patch Tuesday update (KB5101650) affecting certain Dell devices. The issues include system shutdowns, stemming from a conflict between the Windows USB-C Connection Manager and the Intel Innovation Platform Framework Processor Participant driver. Confirmed affected Dell models include the Dell Pro Max 14 Premium MA14250, Dell Pro Max 16 Premium MA16250, Dell XPS 17 9720, and Dell XPS 17 9730. The update is specifically for users of these devices experiencing performance-related issues, and Microsoft stated that no action is required for unaffected devices.

AppWizard

July 21, 2026

Google’s latest Android 17 beta fixes Bluetooth headaches and Gemini crashes

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 1 has launched, initiating the testing phase for the Pixel Feature Drop set for December 2026. This beta aims to fix issues affecting Pixel users, including Bluetooth reconnection failures, media control glitches on the lock screen, unexpected reboots when launching the Gemini AI assistant, and touch input bugs. The update has the build number CP41.260701.005 and supports various Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet, Pixel 8 series, Pixel 9 family, and Pixel 10 models. Users can access it via the Android Beta Program or Android Emulator. Owners of the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro will no longer receive beta updates as they have reached their update limits.

AppWizard

July 21, 2026

FBI arrests 21-year-old who allegedly stole $200,000 with malware-infected Steam games and spent the money on traceable UberEats gift cards

Zyaire Dontaevious Zamarion Wilkins, a 21-year-old from Florida, was arrested for allegedly leading a cybercrime operation that targeted approximately 8,000 gamers by distributing malware disguised as popular Steam games. Wilkins and two accomplices used social media platforms like Discord, Telegram, X, and LinkedIn to promote their malware-infused games, focusing on individuals with significant cryptocurrency holdings. The compromised games include Dashverse (2024), Lunara (2024), PirateFi (2025), Blockblasters (2025), and Lampy (2026). The FBI's investigation revealed that Bitcoin payments were sent from one of Wilkins' co-conspirators to a user identified as "Sibel.eth," who had lost funds intended for medical treatments for stage 4 cancer.

Winsage

July 20, 2026

Enable BitLocker on Windows 11: 11 Steps, 45 Min [2026]

A stolen laptop can lead to a significant data breach, particularly when taken from public places. Windows 11 has introduced BitLocker, a full-disk encryption feature that became mandatory for Australian businesses in 2026. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner reported 766 notifiable data breaches in the latter half of 2024, with unauthorized access to devices being a major cause. Full-disk encryption is crucial for compliance with the Essential Eight framework, which mandates data protection on portable devices. BitLocker ensures that data on an encrypted drive becomes unreadable if the drive is removed and connected to another computer. It aligns with the Essential Eight framework, requiring evidence of encryption rather than just claims of protection. There are three types of encryption on Windows 11: Device Encryption, BitLocker Drive Encryption, and File-Level Encryption. BitLocker is available only on Windows 11 Pro and higher editions. To use BitLocker, certain prerequisites must be met, including having Windows 11 Pro or higher, a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled, and local administrator rights. The process to enable BitLocker involves confirming the edition, checking TPM status, enabling BitLocker through Windows Settings or PowerShell, and backing up the recovery key. Organizations can deploy BitLocker fleet-wide using Microsoft Intune, and additional security measures like TPM+PIN can be implemented for pre-boot authentication. Common pitfalls during BitLocker rollout include skipping recovery key backup and assuming that Home edition machines are covered. Troubleshooting common BitLocker issues involves identifying symptoms and applying appropriate fixes. Advanced tips for enhancing security include suspending BitLocker before maintenance and auditing compliance at the fleet level. BitLocker is integral to protecting data on portable devices, and compliance documentation is essential for proving that every device has an active recovery key.

Winsage

July 20, 2026

Windows 11 Version 26H2 Ships as an Enablement Package With No New Features Over 25H2

Microsoft is set to release Windows 11 version 26H2, an enablement package based on version 25H2, without introducing new features at launch. The update will require only a single restart for devices on versions 25H2 or 24H2, while users on older versions, such as 23H2 or Windows 10, will need a full feature update. Both versions share identical features and are built on the same platform, with version 26H2 using build numbers in the 26300 series. The update process will vary depending on the current version, and version 26H2 will not change hardware requirements. Microsoft plans a gradual rollout of the update, initially as an optional install. Version 26H2 aims to extend support, adding approximately a year to the support timeline, with version 25H2 support continuing until October 2027. Users should verify their current version and back up important files before upgrading.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Instagram down: Thousands complain of outage amid troubles with Meta’s Facebook, Messenger; how to fix issues

On Sunday, July 19, users reported difficulties accessing Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger, with over 4,000 reports for Instagram, more than 3,000 for Facebook, and over 100 for Messenger logged on Downdetector. Users experienced various issues, including unresponsive home pages, inability to post stories, and error messages indicating temporary unavailability of accounts. The outage was global, affecting users from various locations, and the cause remains unclear with no official communication from Meta. Suggested remedies for users included clearing cache and checking network connections, although these may not resolve the underlying problems due to the outage.

Winsage

July 19, 2026

How to install apps on your Windows 11 PC with Windows Package Manager (winget)

Windows 11 users can download applications using the Windows Package Manager (winget) via the command line, bypassing traditional web browser navigation. Winget is integrated into Windows 11, modern Windows 10, and Windows Server 2025, simplifying application management. To use winget, users can open the Command Prompt, check for installation with "winget --version," search for applications with "winget search [app name]," and install them using "winget install [app name]." Users can also specify installation directories and utilize commands to list installed applications, show details about specific apps, and uninstall applications.

Winsage

July 19, 2026

Windows 11’s big 2026 update is almost here, and these 10 things you need to know before upgrading could save you time and frustration

Microsoft is set to launch the 2026 Update for Windows 11, known as version 26H2, later this year. This will be the fifth feature update for the operating system. The upgrade from version 25H2 to 26H2 will utilize an Enablement Package (eKB), allowing for a transition similar to a standard monthly cumulative update without requiring a full reinstallation. Users can also upgrade from Windows 10 using an ISO file or Microsoft installation media, which ensures files, applications, and settings remain intact. Upgrading to version 26H2 extends the support lifecycle of devices by an additional year, with Microsoft providing 24 months of support for Home and Pro editions and 36 months for Enterprise and Education editions. Version 25H2 will continue to receive support until October 2027, and users are advised to plan upgrades before this support ends. Windows 11 version 26H2 has the same hardware requirements as version 25H2, which include a 1GHz processor with at least two cores, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, TPM version 2.0, DirectX 12 compatible graphics, and a high-definition display. The rollout of the update will be gradual, following a Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) strategy, meaning not all devices will receive the update immediately.

AppWizard

July 19, 2026

EA believes that planning for in-game advertising placement should be done during the development stage

Alexander Dao, Vice President of Advertising and Sponsorship at Electronic Arts (EA), discussed the strategic integration of advertising in console and PC games, emphasizing that planning for advertising from the outset can enhance monetization potential. He noted that when advertising is integrated into game design from the beginning, it feels more organic and allows for greater flexibility with brands. Dao mentioned that the ease of embedding advertising varies by genre, with sports games being more conducive to it. He cited the partnership between The Sims 4 and Coach as a successful example of brand collaboration. Additionally, he highlighted EA's launch of EA Advertising, a platform aimed at facilitating brand advertising within its games.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

Raids just landed in solo ‘simulated MMO’ Erenshor

Erenshor is a solo MMO that features computer-controlled NPCs called "simplayers" and has recently introduced guilds and party formations. The Planar March patch, released last Monday, added raids to the game, which the developer Brian described as a significant update. The game has a "very positive" rating on Steam, with 94% of user reviews recommending it. Erenshor allows players to engage in gameplay without the need to coordinate schedules for traditional raids, offering a blend of grinding and strategic encounters reminiscent of classic MMOs.