native version Archives

Winsage

March 24, 2025

Google Drive is now widely available on Snapdragon-powered Windows laptops

The Google Drive app is now fully available for users of Arm-powered PCs, including those with Snapdragon X chipsets. This native version allows seamless integration with Windows File Explorer, enabling users to sync and store files online easily. Additionally, Google has updated its Quick Share app for Windows to support Arm, although it is still a non-native application.

Winsage

March 21, 2025

Microsoft just fixed this Windows 11 bug, but I bet you wish it hadn’t

Microsoft addressed a bug that removed the Copilot feature from certain Windows 11 PCs, specifically affecting users of Windows 11 Build 26100.3476. The company has released an updated version of the Copilot app with improved performance and features. A support document confirmed that the issue has been resolved and users can restore the app from the Microsoft Store. Microsoft is planning a significant update for the Copilot app to provide a native version, and there is user feedback indicating a desire for more flexibility regarding the integration of Copilot, including the option to remove it entirely. Some users reported that Copilot reappears after uninstalling it following a Windows update.

Winsage

March 17, 2025

Microsoft accidentally wipes out Copilot in latest Windows 11 update

Microsoft's Copilot app for Windows 11 was unintentionally uninstalled following the March 11 Patch Tuesday updates. Users reported that the app was removed from devices and unpinned from the taskbar. Microsoft acknowledged the issue and is working on a resolution, advising users to reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store and manually pin it back to the taskbar. Some users may view the uninstallation as a feature. Microsoft is also rolling out a native version of Copilot with an enhanced user interface and a press-to-talk hotkey. Additionally, Microsoft plans to unveil more updates for Copilot during a special event on April 4th, where CEO Mustafa Suleyman will announce new features. There are indications that Microsoft is developing proprietary AI reasoning models to compete with OpenAI.

Winsage

March 8, 2025

Microsoft Copilot on Windows Begins To Roll Out New Features and Improvements to Windows Insiders

Microsoft is updating its Copilot application from a web-based interface to a native version for Windows, nearly a year after its initial launch. The new version features a refined user interface with a side panel for easier conversation initiation and chat history review. Members of the Windows Insider Programme, which allows early access to new features, can test and provide feedback on updates. The updated Copilot app is being distributed via the Microsoft Store and is expected to reach all Windows 11 PCs soon. The update, version 1.25023.101.0 and higher, is being rolled out gradually across Insider Channels. Users can access the app using the Alt + Space keyboard shortcut or the Copilot Key on compatible PCs.

Winsage

March 6, 2025

Microsoft goes native with Copilot once more

Microsoft has updated its Copilot app for Windows, now presenting it as a native XAML application. The update includes a side panel for initiating conversations and a conversation history list. Users can ask specific questions about their PCs, receiving tailored responses. A new shortcut key, Alt + Space, has been introduced for users without a dedicated Copilot key. The update is being rolled out to Windows Insiders via the Microsoft Store, with plans for broader availability in the coming weeks. Currently, the app's capabilities are limited, but it aims to enhance user interaction with their PCs through a conversational interface.

Winsage

March 6, 2025

Microsoft goes native with Copilot once more

Microsoft has updated its Copilot app for Windows, now claiming it is a native XAML application. The update is being rolled out to Windows Insiders via the Microsoft Store and introduces a side panel for conversations and a history list for previous interactions. This native version allows Copilot to access the operating system more effectively, enabling users to ask device-specific questions and receive tailored responses. The app previously functioned as a wrapper around a website and is now designed to provide a more integrated experience. A shortcut key, Alt + Space, was introduced for users without a dedicated Copilot key. The update will be gradually rolled out across all Insider Channels, with general availability expected in the coming weeks, pending successful testing. Currently, the app's capabilities for direct interaction with a user's PC are limited, but future developments may enhance its functionality.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

Windows 11’s new native Copilot rolls out to everyone, but it consumes more RAM

Microsoft has released a new version of its Copilot application for Windows 11, marking the fourth redesign since its launch. This version is now available in the Microsoft Store and is described as a more "native" experience compared to previous iterations, which were Progressive Web Apps (PWAs). The new app integrates more seamlessly with Windows and can be accessed from the system tray. However, it still relies on web-based components, loading its interface through a Microsoft Edge-based WebView, resulting in higher RAM consumption of 500MB to 600MB, with spikes up to 1.5GB. Users can summon the app using the Alt + Space keyboard shortcut. The redesign has been led by Mustafa Suleyman, and while it features a more traditional Windows appearance, the app's web-centric nature remains evident.

AppWizard

December 22, 2024

Will ‘Civ 7’ Run On Steam Deck And Linux?

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII will have a native Linux version with the following minimum PC requirements for 1080p at 30 frames per second on low graphics settings: - OS: Ubuntu 22.04 - Processor: Intel i5-4690 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200 - Memory: 8 GB RAM - Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD RX 580 - Storage: 25 GB available space The Windows version has a minimum requirement of an Nvidia GTX 1050, while the Linux version requires a GTX 1060. The Steam Deck's GPUs (GTX 1050Ti or AMD Radeon RX 570) are slightly below the Linux minimum requirements, but the lower resolution of 1280x800 suggests Civ 7 may run well on the device. Users should run Ubuntu 22.04 or higher, but other modern Linux distributions with a contemporary kernel may also suffice. Civilization VII is scheduled for release on February 11, 2025.

Winsage

December 12, 2024

Microsoft tests compact, native version of Windows Copilot app

Mark is a technology journalist with ten years at PCWorld and over three decades in the industry, having written more than 3,500 articles on topics like PC microprocessors and Microsoft Windows. His work has also been featured in publications such as PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News. He won the Jesse H. Neal Award for breaking news. Recently, he sold several dozen Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs due to a lack of space in his office.

Winsage

December 11, 2024

Update for Copilot for Windows begins rolling out to Windows Insiders

Microsoft is rolling out an updated version of the Copilot app through the Microsoft Store for Windows Insiders. The update transitions the app from a progressive web app to a fully native version, integrating it into the system tray for easier access. A new quick view feature is introduced, accessible via the Alt + Space keyboard shortcut on Windows 10 and 11 PCs, allowing users to move and resize the quick view window. The update is designated as version 1.24112.123.0 and higher and is being gradually rolled out across all Insider Channels. Feedback can be submitted in the Feedback Hub under Apps > Copilot.