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Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 updates are “deleting the internet” for many: Possible fixes explored
Winsage
March 5, 2026

Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 updates are “deleting the internet” for many: Possible fixes explored

A critical bug in Windows 11 builds 24H2 and 25H2 is causing users with Ethernet connections to lose internet access after installing updates KB5066835 and KB5065789. Users have reported issues on Microsoft’s Q&A forums, and rolling back the operating system is recommended. Possible fixes include performing a full network reset, flushing DNS and resetting TCP/IP via Command Prompt, editing the registry, and using hardware bypass solutions like USB-to-Ethernet or USB-to-WiFi adapters.
Did Windows 10 automatically update itself on this user's PC with curiously perfect timing — or was this mid-shower surprise just an honest mistake?
Winsage
March 4, 2026

Did Windows 10 automatically update itself on this user’s PC with curiously perfect timing — or was this mid-shower surprise just an honest mistake?

Microsoft has been encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11 since its launch in October 2021, employing tactics such as full-screen pop-up ads. Some users prefer Windows 10 due to its hardware requirements and design issues. A user named 'djseifer' reported that their Windows 10 PC automatically upgraded to Windows 11 while they were away, despite declining previous upgrade prompts. Upon returning, they expressed dissatisfaction with the new interface, particularly the Start menu and centralized taskbar. It is generally understood that Microsoft should not forcibly upgrade a user's operating system without consent, although the user may have inadvertently consented through prior agreements. Users can disable automatic updates to maintain their Windows 10 experience, but this may expose them to security vulnerabilities. Microsoft requires TPM 2.0 for Windows 11, complicating upgrades for unsupported hardware. Windows 10 will still be usable after Microsoft ends support on October 14, 2025, but users will face increased risks from cyber threats. Extended Security Updates (ESU) will provide limited security updates for a time.
Google turns Pixel’s Now Playing into a standalone app — and it’s a big deal
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

Google turns Pixel’s Now Playing into a standalone app — and it’s a big deal

Google's Now Playing feature is now a standalone app available for download on the Play Store. It uses an on-device database for music identification without sending audio to the cloud. Google is testing a refreshed user interface for Now Playing, which will include clearer album art, updated controls, and smoother navigation. This transition allows for quicker updates and enhances the user experience.
This third‑party Windows 11 app fixes one of its most annoying UX problems
Winsage
March 3, 2026

This third‑party Windows 11 app fixes one of its most annoying UX problems

The Files app has been updated to version 4.0.28, featuring an improved right-click context menu, bug fixes, support for the Microsoft Store version of Dropbox, icon customization for URL and shortcut files, and an option to disable smooth scrolling. The update resolves several issues, including problems with the 'Open With' menu, tab switching, and tag searches. The development team is focused on performance improvements, particularly for thumbnail loading times. Microsoft has plans to enhance Windows 11 and address user pain points related to File Explorer.
This third‑party Windows 11 app just fixed one of its most annoying design problems — because someone had to step in and do it
Winsage
March 3, 2026

This third‑party Windows 11 app just fixed one of its most annoying design problems — because someone had to step in and do it

Microsoft introduced Windows 11 nearly five years ago, but its market adoption has been slow due to challenges such as design flaws and high hardware requirements. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. In response to these issues, third-party applications like the 'Files' app have emerged, with the latest update (version 4.0.28) improving the right-click context menu and fixing bugs. Microsoft is working on changing perceptions of Windows 11 and addressing user feedback, including reassessing its AI strategy. Last year, the rollout of a new File Explorer feature to display "recommended" files was halted.
For Project Zomboid players, the year-long wait for a stable build is nearly over
AppWizard
March 1, 2026

For Project Zomboid players, the year-long wait for a stable build is nearly over

Project Zomboid's build 42 was released in an 'unstable' form in December 2024 and has not yet transitioned to a 'stable' state, despite the addition of multiplayer support in late 2025. Concerns have arisen within the community regarding the team's communication during this prolonged development. Christian 'Serellan' Allen became the new design director in late 2025 and aims to address these issues. He acknowledges the complexity of the game and the need for dedicated design leadership. The team is currently focused on bug fixes, balancing, and polishing build 42, with no specific release date for the stable version. Enhancements made under Allen's direction include a revamped right-click menu and planned balance adjustments for game modes. He emphasizes the importance of community feedback and intends to improve communication about the game's direction.
Spotify Android App Draws Ire For Rigid Gestures
AppWizard
March 1, 2026

Spotify Android App Draws Ire For Rigid Gestures

Spotify's Android app relies on mandatory swipe gestures that cannot be disabled, causing usability issues that conflict with Android's navigation system. This design choice has led to accidental actions, such as skipping tracks or altering playlists, particularly affecting users with motor or dexterity challenges. Research indicates that invisible gestures can lead to unintended activations, and guidelines recommend providing multiple input methods. A proposed solution is to introduce a Gestures menu for user customization, allowing users to disable or modify swipe actions. With Android's market share at around 70% and Spotify having approximately 626 million monthly active users, minimizing accidental actions could enhance user experience and provide a competitive advantage.
Windows Wrap: Windows 11’s new Start menu is a masterclass in frustration — I just scored you an exclusive deal to save 25% on Start11 to fix it
Winsage
March 1, 2026

Windows Wrap: Windows 11’s new Start menu is a masterclass in frustration — I just scored you an exclusive deal to save 25% on Start11 to fix it

Microsoft's recent updates to the Start menu in Windows 11 have led to user disappointment, with popular applications being placed in an "Other" folder and illogical groupings of apps. A poll by Windows Central indicated that 43% of respondents find the new Start menu more cluttered than the previous version, while 25% miss the control they had over its layout. Users desire greater customization options, including the elimination of advertisements, the ability to reposition the taskbar, customizable categories for app organization, resizing the Start menu, and collapsing sections within the menu. Microsoft has committed to allowing users to move the taskbar, aligning Windows 11 more closely with Windows 10 functionality. An exclusive 25% discount on Start11 from Stardock is available for 14 days from publication.
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