Microsoft accounts Archives

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Windows 11 Notepad now supports on-device AI models for text

Microsoft has updated its Notepad application on Windows 11 to include on-device AI models, allowing users to generate, rewrite, and summarize text without needing an internet connection or a Microsoft 365 subscription. The new features enable text processing directly on the user's device, enhancing privacy and efficiency. Users no longer need to be logged into their Microsoft accounts to access these capabilities, streamlining workflows and improving productivity.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Legacy OneNote for Windows 10 app is retiring on October 14, 2025

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for "OneNote for Windows 10 (legacy)," which will then transition to read-only mode, preventing users from editing or synchronizing notes. Users are encouraged to migrate to the newer OneNote app for Windows 11 to maintain editing capabilities. To transition, users must sync their notebooks to a OneDrive account and can use an in-app migration feature. Microsoft is notifying users about this change through an in-app banner. The legacy app currently has a user rating of 4.6 in the Microsoft Store.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Microsoft’s Bad News—Most Windows Users Must Now Upgrade

Over half of all Windows users may need to consider upgrading their PCs due to increasing security threats in the digital landscape. In July, Windows 11 surpassed Windows 10 in market share, capturing over 54% of users, while Windows 10 held 43%. However, Microsoft granted a 12-month extension for Windows 10 users, dampening enthusiasm for migrating to Windows 11. By August 20, Windows 10 rebounded to 47%, and Windows 11 slipped to 49%. The end of security updates for Windows 10 is set for October 14, raising concerns about user reluctance to transition to Windows 11 despite its security advantages.

Winsage

August 16, 2025

10 Windows features that would actually help productivity

Windows has been perceived as prioritizing corporate interests over user preferences, with persistent prompts for subscriptions and data collection through Microsoft accounts. In a recent interview, Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft's corporate VP of Windows + Devices, discussed a future vision for Windows that integrates voice, vision, and touch, but raised questions about user demand for these changes. Users have expressed a desire for specific features to enhance productivity, including: 1. Multiple clipboards for simultaneous content copying. 2. Two or three visible clocks in the taskbar for time zone management. 3. A fourth modifier key for customizable keyboard shortcuts. 4. The ability to remap all keyboard shortcuts. 5. A movable, resizable taskbar for better workspace control. 6. A firewall for audio to manage sound interruptions. 7. The ability to pin apps to specific screens on multiple monitors. 8. A feature to launch multiple related apps at once. 9. An easy audio device switching option on the taskbar. 10. A reduction in Microsoft-induced distractions and notifications.

Winsage

August 9, 2025

9 Hidden Default Settings and Behaviors on Windows 11

Windows 11 has several default settings that users may not be aware of: 1. Windows Update can utilize renewable energy by scheduling installations during times of lower carbon intensity. 2. Microsoft accounts automatically back up apps and settings, but individual item restoration is not available. 3. Delivery Optimization is enabled by default, allowing updates to be downloaded from both Microsoft servers and local devices. 4. The "Find My Device" feature is automatically turned on for Microsoft account users to help locate lost or stolen computers. 5. Device Encryption (BitLocker) is enabled by default, with the decryption key stored in the user's Microsoft account. 6. System Protection is disabled by default, requiring users to enable it manually for recovery capabilities. 7. Storage Sense is enabled by default to automatically delete unnecessary files and free up disk space. 8. Hibernation is disabled by default, likely due to hardware compatibility issues. 9. The default account lockout policy allows for 10 invalid sign-in attempts before locking the account for 10 minutes.

Winsage

August 8, 2025

Windows 10 Consumer ESU Program Licenses Will Support 10 PCs

Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 allows users to link consumer ESU licenses to personal Microsoft accounts, enabling use on up to 10 devices. Enrollment is simplified, requiring devices to run the latest Windows 10 update (version 22H2) and have administrator privileges. Users can enroll additional devices without separate enrollment. The ESU program extends security updates until October 13, 2026. For commercial devices, a fee is required per device for updates, with renewal options available for up to three years at increasing costs.

Winsage

August 4, 2025

Microsoft is finally fixing this irritating Windows 11 feature

Windows 11 includes a feature called the Second-chance out-of-box experience (SCOOBE), which can disrupt user experience by requiring users to navigate through multiple prompts before accessing the desktop. In a recent update to the Windows 11 Dev build, Microsoft has streamlined the SCOOBE process into a single-screen interface with a list of optional features that can be toggled on or off. The new interface includes intuitive buttons for accepting or declining all offers with a single click. The SCOOBE feature typically appears on systems using local accounts or the oobebypassnro command, as well as on devices with Microsoft accounts. Users can disable SCOOBE by going to Settings > System > Notifications > Additional Settings and toggling off the relevant options.

AppWizard

July 31, 2025

These are the drawing apps I recommend, but one sticks out from the rest

Drawing has evolved with technology, enhancing understanding and creativity for visual learners. Procreate is popular among iPad users, while Android offers various drawing apps. Most applications have robust free versions. 1. May: A daily planner app with an expandable canvas for doodles and mood tracking, integrating creativity into daily planning. 2. Sketchbook: Developed by Autodesk, this app features extensive tools, layering, and mirror drawing options, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. 3. Concepts: Offers a modern interface with customizable backgrounds and a variety of brushes, enhancing the drawing experience. 4. Notewise: A note-taking app that allows freeform placement of text and drawings, making it versatile for writing and sketching. 5. Microsoft OneNote: Known for its simplicity and synchronization across devices, it provides basic drawing tools and is practical for managing notes and drawings.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

Windows 10 is turning 10: Here are top 10 features and changes it introduced

Windows 10, approaching its tenth anniversary on July 29, has played a significant role in Microsoft's history as mainstream support nears its end. Key achievements include: 1. The Windows Insider Program, launched in late 2014, allowed over 1 million users to provide feedback on Windows development. 2. Windows 10 was the first version that allowed free upgrades from Windows 7 and 8.1, resulting in over 350 million devices upgraded in the first year. 3. It introduced the concept of "Windows as a Service," with bi-annual feature updates. 4. The activation process was improved by linking licenses to Microsoft accounts, allowing users to retain licenses after hardware changes. 5. The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) was introduced in 2017, enabling users to run Linux applications directly within Windows. 6. Windows Hello provided a modern biometric authentication method, supporting facial recognition and fingerprint scanners. 7. The Start menu was redesigned to combine elements from Windows 7 and 8, receiving positive feedback. 8. The Xbox Play Anywhere program allowed users to purchase games once and play them on both PC and Xbox, syncing progress across platforms. 9. Microsoft Defender was included as a built-in antivirus solution, offering robust protection. 10. A proper dark mode was introduced, enhancing user experience, especially for those working late or using OLED displays.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

UpDownTool lets you move from Windows 11 to Windows 10 in just 5 clicks – without losing any data

A new application called UpDownTool allows users to revert from Windows 11 to Windows 10 without losing programs, files, drivers, or settings. Many users are dissatisfied with Windows 11 due to sluggish performance, a less intuitive interface, increased system requirements, and the removal of familiar features. Microsoft has limited options for downgrading, typically allowing a 10-day rollback period or requiring a clean install. UpDownTool simplifies the process by enabling users to transition to Windows 10 LTSC 2021 while preserving core data and configurations. Windows 10 LTSC 2021 is designed for long-term deployment and receives extended updates, with support for the IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 edition lasting until January 2032. The LTSC edition does not include preinstalled applications like the Microsoft Store and Cortana, making it appealing for users seeking a minimalist experience. UpDownTool can also repair existing Windows 10 LTSC installations or convert other editions to LTSC. Users must be cautious of licensing implications, as LTSC licenses are typically not available through consumer channels. The downgrade process involves downloading the installer and executing a batch script, with the system booting into Windows 10 LTSC 2021 upon completion. Users are advised to back up important files before proceeding.