NPU Archives

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Revamped Task Manager, second-monitor notifications coming soon to Windows 11

Microsoft is rolling out its Copilot+ features, primarily for PCs with Intel and AMD processors, which receive updates later than Qualcomm Snapdragon+ devices. The new "agent-powered search" feature allows users to ask natural-language questions to simplify the Settings app. This functionality is supported by a neural processing unit (NPU) that processes information locally for improved speed and privacy. A tutorial for the "Click to Do" feature has also been introduced, providing action suggestions based on on-screen content. The "Second Chance Out of Box Experience" (SCOOBE) window has received negative feedback for being intrusive, prompting users to enroll in Windows Backup and switch to Microsoft Edge. Users can disable the SCOOBE screen by adjusting settings in the Notifications section. These features are being introduced across the Dev and Beta channels of the Windows Insider program, with a public release expected soon. Additionally, Microsoft is preparing for the Windows 11 25H2 update, which will introduce more features currently being deployed to version 24H2 devices.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

AdGuard joins the Windows Recall backlash party — “Leaving backdoors wide open and hoping Microsoft will always act in good faith isn’t a solid privacy strategy”

Windows Recall is a feature from Microsoft that has faced criticism for being a potential security hazard and a public relations misstep. It was introduced with the 24H2 release, which included advanced AI functionalities. The feature relies on a neural processing unit (NPU) that operates independently of the cloud to emphasize privacy and security. In April 2025, Windows Recall became widely available for Copilot+ PCs, with security measures like isolating it within a "VBS Enclave" to protect sensitive data. However, skepticism remains, leading platforms like Signal and Brave to implement their own protective measures against Windows Recall. Signal has introduced a feature to prevent Windows Recall from capturing snapshots of its app, while Brave blocks Windows Recall by default for all its browser windows. AdGuard has also released an update to enhance user privacy by allowing users to disable Windows Recall on Copilot+ PCs, expressing doubts about the effectiveness of Microsoft's security measures.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

You DO see Win 11 as an AI PC opportunity, say Dell, Intel

Dell and Intel are promoting the upgrade of PC fleets from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as a strategic opportunity for businesses to prepare for artificial intelligence (AI). Their "Windows 11 & AI PC Readiness Report" suggests that this is an ideal time for organizations to improve productivity, collaboration, and security with AI-ready PCs. A survey indicated that 80 percent of UK businesses plan to transition to Windows 11 by October 14, when support for Windows 10 ends. However, there are concerns about software and hardware compatibility, as well as the high costs associated with AI PCs, which may deter buyers. The report shows that 62 percent of IT decision-makers prefer Copilot+ AI PCs, while 64 percent believe it is critical to acquire new PCs capable of running AI applications. Despite claims of enhanced productivity with AI PCs, a study found that employees using such systems were less productive than those with traditional hardware.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Windows 11 KB5062660 24H2 out with features, direct download links for offline installer (.msu)

Windows 11 KB5062660 is an optional update for Windows 11 24H2, introducing features like Recall AI for users in Europe. The update is approximately one gigabyte in size and upgrades the operating system to Windows 11 Build 26100.4770. Users can access it through Windows Update or direct download links from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Recall AI allows users to save screen snapshots but raises privacy concerns, which can be managed through settings. The update also includes Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) for efficient system recovery, improvements in system stability, and various enhancements such as inline messages in the Snap bar, streamlined Windows Search settings, enhanced controller navigation, and fixes for issues in the Settings app and File Explorer.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Introducing Surface Laptop 5G: Seamless connectivity, built for business

Microsoft has expanded its Surface Copilot+ PC portfolio with the introduction of the Surface Laptop 5G, a 13.8-inch device powered by Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processors, set to ship on August 26. The new 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro are available for immediate purchase. The Surface Laptop 5G features a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of over 40 trillion operations per second, enhancing on-device intelligence and productivity. It includes an integrated 5G modem for continuous connectivity to Microsoft 365 Copilot and other cloud tools. The device has a dynamic antenna system with six antennas that adapt to surroundings, ensuring reliable connectivity and the ability to function as a mobile hotspot. It supports both NanoSIM and eSIM options and weighs under 3 pounds for portability. The device underwent rigorous real-world testing for performance and connectivity. IT departments can remotely manage the devices, and the Surface Management Portal offers centralized visibility into device health. The Surface Laptop 5G is part of a growing portfolio of Copilot+ PCs designed for modern business needs.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

Windows 11 will soon be able to describe images on your screen using AI — and it’ll all be done locally

Microsoft is introducing a new AI action within its Click To Do feature on Windows 11, allowing users to receive descriptions of images on their screens using on-device AI. This feature is available exclusively for Copilot+ PCs and can be accessed by holding down the Windows key and clicking the mouse. The describe image function operates offline, enhancing user privacy by generating descriptions locally without an internet connection. Click To Do also offers various functions, including text analysis and image identification. The describe image feature is currently available through the Windows 11 Insider Program for users in the Beta and Dev Channels, with a broader rollout expected later this year for Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon processors, while Intel and AMD chip users will gain access in the coming weeks.

Winsage

July 12, 2025

A new Windows feature could allow your PC to fix itself

Microsoft is introducing a feature called "quick machine recovery" for Windows users, currently available in Windows 11 Build 26100.4762. This feature allows PCs to autonomously troubleshoot and fix issues after a crash, such as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), by booting into the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE). Quick machine recovery can connect to Microsoft’s servers to send crash data for analysis, eliminating the need for users to interpret error codes. It employs cloud remediation and auto remediation methods, though auto remediation is disabled by default on home PCs. The existing Startup Repair tool will still be available as a fallback option, and users can disable quick machine recovery if desired. Additionally, the build includes a refined "semantic search" capability in Settings, integration of Microsoft’s Reading Coach app, and the ability to export Recall snapshots to third-party applications in Europe.

Winsage

July 8, 2025

Firms on Windows 10 will get more time before support runs out

The end of support for Windows 10, originally set for October 14, 2025, has been postponed for certain users, particularly accounting firms, allowing them more time to upgrade. Microsoft has introduced an Extended Security Updates program for select Windows 10 users, which requires a fee per device for continued security updates, but does not include new features or general tech support. A December 2023 report indicates that 47% of accountants still rely on Windows 10, with approximately 25% of Windows 10 PCs actively used in accounting firms. Over half of all devices have migrated to Windows 11, which holds about 52% of the market. Experts recommend delaying upgrades to Windows 11 in favor of Windows 12, expected to be more optimized for AI, with potential hardware investments needed for the transition.

Winsage

July 5, 2025

Windows 11 is now the most popular desktop OS in the world — finally surpasses Windows 10 after 4 years

As of July 2025, Windows 11 has overtaken Windows 10 with a market share of 50.88%, while Windows 10's share has declined to 46.2%. Windows 11 was launched in 2021 and initially struggled to gain market traction, but the impending end of support for Windows 10 has accelerated its adoption. Microsoft is providing an additional year of security updates for Windows 10 users who sign into a Microsoft Account and back up their settings to the cloud, but is encouraging migration to Windows 11. Windows 11 has also become the most utilized Windows operating system among Steam users. The upcoming version 25H2 will maintain the same platform as version 24H2, ensuring compatibility. However, Windows 11 has faced criticism for increased system requirements, making many Windows 10 devices ineligible for the upgrade, and for requiring a Microsoft account and internet connection during setup. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 PCs, while those with incompatible devices are encouraged to consider new Copilot+ PCs with AI features.

Winsage

June 27, 2025

Microsoft’s new AI agent for Windows 11 can manage settings for you

Microsoft has introduced an AI assistant named Mu for Windows 11’s Settings, allowing users to ask questions in natural language through the search bar. Users can issue commands like “turn on dark mode” or “disable notifications for Teams,” and Mu will either navigate to the settings or execute the changes. Mu has 330 million parameters and is trained on 3.6 million examples, processing requests in under 500 milliseconds. It operates on a device’s Neural Processing Unit (NPU), requiring a Copilot+ PC for full functionality, and handles data locally, enhancing privacy and security.