Microsoft applications Archives

Winsage

February 25, 2026

Now Available: De-Enshittify Windows 11

The book "De-Enshittify Windows 11" is available for purchase on Leanpub, priced at .99 and up. It is a work in progress, offering insights on improving the Windows 11 experience. Thurrott Premium members will receive a complimentary copy upon completion. Preliminary chapters can be accessed on Thurrott.com. The book includes chapters on topics such as installing Windows 11, enhancing privacy and security, and improving Microsoft applications. The current draft is under 100 pages, with the final version expected to be around 150 pages. It will be available in PDF and EPUB formats on Leanpub and will also be published on Amazon Kindle once finalized.

Winsage

February 23, 2026

Microsoft Copilot is the best productivity app on Windows, says Microsoft

Microsoft has announced that its AI-driven tool, Copilot, is the top productivity application for Windows, according to its list titled "Best productivity apps in Windows for getting more done," which only includes Microsoft applications. Copilot is designed to streamline tasks from the desktop, offering features like summarizing emails, creating checklists, drafting messages, and organizing projects. Microsoft is promoting Copilot's integration across its product suite, but the ranking's exclusion of third-party applications has raised questions among users. An alternative list featuring a mix of Windows-based and third-party applications is available for those seeking a broader perspective on productivity tools.

Winsage

February 17, 2026

This Windows 11 optimization and cleanup app blends perfectly into your PC’s UI — and I never usually care about these ‘debloaters’

Winhance is an open-source application developed by Marco du Plessis for optimizing Windows 10 and 11 on various devices. It has a user-friendly interface and has been available on GitHub for over a year. The latest version, v26.02.17, includes updates that improve its transition to the WinUI 3 framework. Winhance features a System Restore backup option, a batch uninstaller for removing default Microsoft applications, and allows users to install multiple applications simultaneously. It also offers unique tweaks to prevent OEMs from pre-installing unwanted software and provides an option to generate an Autounattend XML file for replicating configurations across devices. Users are advised to download Winhance from the official GitHub repository and back up their files before using the tool.

AppWizard

January 21, 2026

Android 16 Beta Still Crashing Apps Despite Google’s Claims of Fixing It

Google released the Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2 update for Pixel 6 and newer models, aiming to fix issues, including crashes of Microsoft applications. Despite the update, many users still report crashes, especially with work-related apps like Microsoft Teams. Some users experience crashes only on their work profiles, while others face issues regardless of the profile. A few users have reported no problems at all with Microsoft applications on the latest beta. Google specifically mentioned fixing issues related to Microsoft Intune, but regular users continue to face problems. One user found a workaround by enabling Android System WebView, which was previously disabled. There has been little activity on the Issue Tracker regarding these issues, and users may consider reverting to the stable version of Android 16 without losing data.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

Slack Messenger Review: Why This Work Chat App Is Still the Only One That Feels Human

Slack Messenger is a collaboration platform developed by Slack Technologies, part of Salesforce Inc., designed to enhance work communication by replacing email and fragmented chat applications with an organized, searchable hub. It features channel-based messaging for project and topic organization, powerful search capabilities for efficient information retrieval, and integrations with popular tools like Google Drive and GitHub. Additional functionalities include Slack Connect for external collaboration, built-in audio/video huddles, Workflow Builder for automating tasks, and enterprise-grade security options. Users report a significant reduction in internal email, improved search efficiency, and a positive impact on team culture, although challenges such as notification overload and a learning curve exist. Compared to alternatives like Microsoft Teams and Google Chat, Slack is noted for its user-friendly experience and dynamic functionality.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

Microsoft updates Windows DLL that triggered security alerts

Microsoft has resolved an issue where third-party security applications mistakenly flagged the WinSqlite3.dll component of the Windows operating system as vulnerable. This issue affected various systems, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2012 through 2025. The flagged vulnerability was linked to a memory corruption issue (CVE-2025-6965). Microsoft released an update to the WinSqlite3.dll component in updates from June 2025 and later, advising users to install the latest updates for their devices. WinSqlite3.dll is a core component of Windows, distinct from sqlite3.dll, which is not part of the operating system. Microsoft had previously addressed other false positive issues affecting its Defender for Endpoint platform.

Winsage

January 7, 2026

Get a Lifetime of Microsoft Office Pro 2021 for Windows for Just $35

Businesses are losing an estimated 20% to 30% of their productivity due to outdated or incompatible software. A lifetime license for the Windows version of MS Office Professional 2021 is available for just .97, providing access to eight applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. This suite is designed for various business needs, including document creation, spreadsheet management, email organization, presentations, and database handling. The software is a one-time purchase, installed on a single Windows PC, with instant delivery of license keys and download links. The license is tied to the device, ensuring continued access without service interruption. This offer is beneficial for small business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

AppWizard

December 24, 2025

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1.1 Fixes App Crash Issue on Pixel Devices

Google has released Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1.1 to fix a bug causing certain applications, including Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and various banking apps, to crash upon launch. The update is available for eligible Pixel phones in the Android Beta Program, starting with the Pixel 6 series. Most users will receive build CP11.251114.007, while the Pixel 7a has a different variant. The OTA package is about 60MB. Initial feedback shows that the update has resolved crashes for most banking applications, but some Microsoft apps still have launch issues. Users are cautioned that opting out of the beta after installing this update may risk data corruption.

AppWizard

December 20, 2025

Pixel owners can finally remove the ‘At a Glance’ widget in new Android beta

Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 introduces a native toggle to remove the At a Glance widget from home screens, while still keeping the information accessible on the lock screen and Always-on Display. The update also includes a brightness slider for the flashlight and allows users to swap navigation buttons to match Samsung's layout. However, early reports suggest that Microsoft applications may crash within Work Profiles, particularly affecting users of Teams or Outlook. A stable release is expected in March 2026.