obsolescence Archives

Winsage

June 6, 2025

This app has been shipping with Windows for decades, and it needs to go away

The Character Map is a tool in Windows designed to help users access uncommon characters and symbols not available on the keyboard. However, it is considered convoluted and unnecessary due to its complicated access process and cumbersome selection method. Microsoft has introduced a more efficient emoji keyboard in Windows 11, which allows users to quickly select symbols by pressing Windows + . (period) and is more user-friendly than the Character Map. The emoji panel saves the last twelve used symbols for easy access. It is suggested that the Character Map would be better suited as a feature within Microsoft Office, where symbol selection is more relevant. The Character Map is viewed as one of several outdated features in Windows 11 that may need removal to improve the user experience.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Breathe new life into your PC with this Microsoft bundle for $46

The All-in-One Microsoft Office Pro 2019 for Windows lifetime license, along with the Windows 11 Pro Bundle, is available for .97, reduced from 9. This offer is valid until July 20. The bundle includes Windows 11 Pro, which features an AI assistant named Copilot, DirectX 12 Ultimate for improved graphics, enhanced security measures, and integration with Microsoft Teams. It also provides lifetime access to Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access, along with new analysis capabilities in Excel, enhanced presentation tools in PowerPoint, and updated features in Outlook.

Winsage

June 4, 2025

One of Linux’s big hitters declares your Windows 10 PC “is toast,” and one angle needs talking about MUCH more

The end of life for Windows 10 is prompting discussions about alternatives, particularly Linux, as users consider their options. KDE, a key player in the Linux ecosystem, encourages users with obsolete Windows 10 devices not to discard them but to consider repurposing them with Linux, which can extend the lifespan of older PCs and reduce electronic waste. Many functional PCs, even those over a decade old, can run alternative systems like Linux or Chrome OS Flex efficiently. KDE's initiative highlights that Linux can revitalize old machines, promoting sustainability in the face of potential e-waste accumulation from Microsoft's push for new hardware.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

While tinkering with an old typewriter, this gamer managed to build a real gaming PC capable of running Minecraft.

A gamer transformed an old typewriter into a fully functional gaming PC capable of running Minecraft. The project involved using an H110 motherboard, an Intel i5-6600 processor, a 4GB DDR4 memory module, a GT635 graphics card, a 240GB SATA SSD, a 200W SFX power supply, and a WiFi card. The components were integrated into the typewriter's chassis using hot glue, and the original keyboard was modernized with an Arduino Leonardo microcontroller to make it compatible with PCs. The project received positive feedback on Reddit, highlighting its creativity and eco-friendly approach.

Winsage

June 4, 2025

Microsoft accused of ‘tech extortion’ over Windows 10 support ending in campaign to get people to upgrade to Linux

KDE has launched a campaign called ‘KDE for Windows 10 Exiles’ to encourage Windows 10 users to switch to Linux as support for Windows 10 is set to end on October 14. The campaign warns that without updates, users will face increased security risks and be pressured to buy new hardware for Windows 11, which has stringent requirements that may render older PCs incompatible. The initiative also highlights environmental concerns related to electronic waste from discarded functioning machines. While Linux can extend the life of older hardware, transitioning to it may be challenging for less tech-savvy users. Some KDE contributors are involved in the existing ‘End of 10’ initiative, indicating a shared goal to attract users dissatisfied with Microsoft’s practices.

Winsage

June 4, 2025

KDE opens its doors to “Windows 10 exiles” as it claims Microsoft wants to turn your computer “into junk”

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, leaving users vulnerable to bugs and security threats. Users have options to upgrade to Windows 11, invest in new hardware, or switch to alternative operating systems like Linux. The KDE group is promoting Linux, particularly Linux Mint, as a solution for those feeling abandoned by Microsoft, warning that users may face issues such as data breaches and inability to run new applications without updates. They also highlight the environmental impact of forced upgrades, labeling it "tech extortion." KDE advocates for the adoption of Linux to revitalize older hardware and regain control over computing experiences.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Updaing your Windows 10 PC? I found a Linux distro that can give it 5 to 10 more years of life

FunOS is a Linux distribution focused on stability, performance, and security, built on Ubuntu LTS. It features a lightweight architecture with Joe's Window Manager, resulting in an idle RAM usage of approximately 250 MB and an installer size of 1.8 GB. The installation process takes less than five minutes, and the desktop layout resembles traditional environments. FunOS lacks a graphical user interface for the package manager and does not include an app store, requiring users to manage software via the command line. Users can install Synaptic for easier software management. FunOS is designed for older Windows 10 machines, offering a practical solution for extending their lifespan without the bloat of heavier operating systems.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

This new Microsoft tool could be the final nail in Windows 10’s coffin

Microsoft has launched Windows Backup for Organizations, a tool designed to assist businesses in securely backing up and restoring Windows settings during the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This tool is particularly useful for organizations upgrading multiple laptops, as it helps minimize manual adjustments. As of April 2025, 52.9% of Windows users are still on Windows 10, while Windows 11 has a market share of 43.7%. Users are encouraged to back up data before upgrading, and alternatives like Linux are suggested for those hesitant to switch to Windows 11, especially for older hardware.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

The Windows File Explorer is still so bad when it comes to networked drives

File Explorer in Windows 11 has usability issues, particularly with sluggish search functionality and problems accessing networked drives. Users often experience drives disappearing after reboot, inaccessibility to files, and freezing of File Explorer, with error codes like c0000375 indicating deeper issues. The networked drive feature relies on outdated technology, as Microsoft has deprecated older protocols like SMBv1, complicating file sharing. Users can mitigate freezing by restarting File Explorer and ensuring network settings are correctly configured, such as setting Wi-Fi to private and enabling file sharing options. Excessive pinned items in Quick Access can cause crashes, and clearing the cache may resolve these issues. Alternatives to File Explorer, like XYplorer and File Pilot, can provide better access to networked drives. Overall, the challenges stem from outdated technology and the corruption of the Quick Access cache, with third-party solutions available for relief.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

This lean Linux distro can give your Windows 10 PC an extra 5 to 10 years of life

FunOS is a Linux distribution built on Ubuntu LTS, focusing on stability, performance, and security. It has an idle RAM usage of approximately 250 MB and an installer size of 1.8 GB, making it suitable for older hardware. The installation process is straightforward, taking about five minutes. FunOS features a familiar desktop layout but lacks a graphical user interface for the package manager and does not include an app store. Users can install Synaptic via the terminal for software management. FunOS is designed for users with older Windows 10 machines, aiming to extend their lifespan while prioritizing a simple and efficient user experience.