Microsoft services

Winsage
July 29, 2025
Users are frustrated with Microsoft's direction for Windows 11, feeling that new features are more distracting than beneficial. The Widget board can be accidentally triggered, and the default multiple desktops setting can be irritating. The search function now prioritizes web browsing over file access, and the lock screen features advertisements for Microsoft services. The introduction of Copilot Vision and Recall has led to comparisons of Windows 11 to malware due to its invasive nature. Users are encouraged to find tips to disable intrusive features, although there is concern that Microsoft may remove these options in the future.
Winsage
July 16, 2025
Windows 11 has received mixed reactions from users, with some appreciating its design and features while others are frustrated by its promotion of Microsoft services like the Edge browser and Bing search. A user expressed dissatisfaction with the lengthy setup process that included prompts to purchase additional Microsoft services. To address this, they found MSEdgeRedirect, a free application that redirects web searches from the Windows 11 Start menu to any preferred browser and allows users to manage taskbar widgets. As of July 2025, MSEdgeRedirect is effective on both desktop and laptop systems, although users are concerned about its future due to potential disruptions from Microsoft updates.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
Microsoft announced that Windows is now running on just over 1 billion devices globally, a decrease from the previously claimed 1.4 billion devices. This suggests that as many as 400 million PCs may no longer be using Windows, indicating a potential decline in market share since the launch of Windows 11 three years ago. Windows has reportedly lost approximately 15% of its market share since 2015. Windows 10 is approaching its end of support, and Windows 11 is expected to become the most widely used desktop operating system within the next year. There are concerns about Windows 11's stagnation and perceptions of it pushing users towards Microsoft services.
Winsage
June 20, 2025
Microsoft is implementing default blocks on legacy protocols and third-party applications for Microsoft 365 to enhance security. This includes deactivating the RPS protocol for SharePoint and OneDrive, as well as blocking the FPRPC protocol. Administrators will now need to give explicit approval for third-party applications to access files and pages, limiting user consent. These changes will begin in mid-July 2025 and are expected to be completed by August. Additionally, new security settings for Windows 365 will disable clipboard, storage, USB device, and printer linking by default on newly set up cloud PCs, with VBS, Credential Guard, and HVCI activated by default for those using a Windows 11 Gallery image. These updates for Windows 365 are planned for the latter half of 2025.
Winsage
June 14, 2025
Denmark's Ministry of Digital Affairs is transitioning away from Microsoft services, including Windows and Office 365, to adopt Linux and LibreOffice. The migration will occur gradually, with half of the ministry's staff switching between June and August, and the rest from September to November. Copenhagen has begun plans to cut ties with Microsoft, emphasizing the importance of digital sovereignty and concerns about communication disruptions. Aarhus is also moving towards independence from Microsoft. The ministry has a backup plan in place to revert to Microsoft if the transition proves too complicated.
Winsage
June 13, 2025
The Document Foundation (TDF) is advocating for users to transition from Windows 10 to Linux, emphasizing its benefits as a free and open operating system. The deadline for Windows 10 support is October 14, 2025. TDF argues that users are not required to upgrade to Windows 11, which has new hardware requirements that may make many existing PCs obsolete. TDF promotes Linux and LibreOffice as a privacy-centric alternative that allows users to maintain their current hardware while accessing a suite of applications. Other Linux advocates, including KDE, have criticized Microsoft for its subscription model. Transitioning to Linux may be challenging for less tech-savvy users due to the learning curve and potential software compatibility issues. TDF suggests testing Linux on secondary partitions, but acknowledges that this may be difficult for some users.
Winsage
June 12, 2025
The June update for Windows 10, identified as KB5060533 for version 22H2, introduces a feature where the taskbar clock displays seconds in the calendar panel. However, it also includes a new feature that promotes Microsoft services, specifically Bing and Edge, by showcasing popular public events instead of personal reminders in the calendar panel. This change directs users to information from Bing displayed in Microsoft Edge, potentially impacting user experience negatively. The update notes referred to the changes as providing a "rich calendar experience," which may not align with user preferences. Windows 10 is approaching its End of Life in October 2025, and Microsoft may be trying to maintain user engagement despite the upcoming transition to Windows 11.
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