obstacles

Winsage
August 1, 2025
Microsoft launched Windows 11 SE in late 2021 to compete with Google’s Chrome OS in the education technology sector, targeting low-cost devices for schools with a starting price around . The operating system was designed for Chromebook-like laptops, featuring restrictions on app installations to focus on educational tools and integration with Microsoft services like Office 365. Initial interest was noted, but adoption faced challenges due to schools' commitments to Chromebooks and limited app compatibility. By 2022, devices with Windows 11 SE appeared in schools, but market penetration remained modest, hindered by hardware requirements and competition from Chromebooks. Microsoft announced the discontinuation of Windows 11 SE in 2025, with support ending in October 2026, necessitating migration for schools using the OS. This decision reflects a strategic shift towards cloud-based solutions and highlights the challenges of competing against established platforms like Chrome OS.
Winsage
August 1, 2025
Businesses are facing a deadline for Windows 10's end-of-support in October, prompting a shift to Windows 11, which currently holds a 54.7% market share compared to Windows 10's 43.8%. Over 40% of Windows desktops are nearing their end of life, exposing organizations to operational and compliance risks. The migration to Windows 11 involves challenges, and organizations are advised to follow six steps: 1. Conduct a comprehensive audit of devices using Windows 10. 2. Secure necessary funding for the transition. 3. Recognize that smaller organizations may adapt more quickly than larger ones. 4. Communicate the importance of the transition to all levels of the organization. 5. Develop a structured plan that includes testing and user feedback. 6. Implement the migration process by the deadline, ensuring proper onboarding and training for employees.
Winsage
July 30, 2025
Opera has filed a complaint against Microsoft in Brazil, accusing the company of using "manipulative design tactics" to dominate the browser market and hinder competition. Opera's general counsel, Aaron McParlan, stated that Microsoft creates barriers for other browsers, such as excluding them from preinstallation opportunities and complicating the download process. The complaint highlights Microsoft's practices of overriding users' default browser preferences and using Windows features to promote Edge. Opera seeks remedies to allow PC manufacturers to preload alternative browsers and stop blocking downloads. Additionally, the complaint criticizes Microsoft's requirement for OEMs to deliver devices in S mode to receive rebates on Windows OS licenses. This action is part of Opera's broader strategy to challenge Microsoft's practices globally, including an appeal to EU courts regarding the classification of Edge under the Digital Markets Act. Opera has a history of raising concerns about Microsoft's browser practices, including a 2007 antitrust complaint that led to the creation of a browser ballot screen.
AppWizard
July 29, 2025
Grounded 2, developed by Obsidian in collaboration with Eidos Montreal, launched in early access on July 29. The game features a vast first area comparable in size to the original game, but it has performance issues, with limited graphics settings and frame rate challenges even on high-end systems. The game retains a colorful cartoon aesthetic while improving lighting and textures. New mechanics include the ability to befriend bugs that serve as mounts and allies, enhancing exploration and combat dynamics. The introduction of the Omni-Tool simplifies resource gathering. Grounded 2 encourages exploration and adventure, with quests from human characters and a mysterious hacker element. The combat system has evolved with new mechanics and a variety of new creatures, while familiar foes have revamped designs. Despite some bugs during gameplay, the overall experience is enjoyable.
AppWizard
July 27, 2025
July 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of Google’s acquisition of Android, Inc., which initially focused on developing an operating system for digital cameras. Android has evolved into a versatile operating system, known for its open-source nature that allows users to download, modify, and reinstall code. This flexibility has led to a vibrant community of developers, such as Steve Kondik, who created the CyanogenMod custom Android ROM. Around 2010, many Android users faced frustrations due to carrier restrictions that limited device customization and control. Despite these challenges, a culture of rooting and custom ROM development emerged, allowing users to unlock their devices and enhance functionality. The motivations for modifying devices stemmed from a desire for better performance and user experience, particularly in overcoming issues like bloatware. For example, the Motorola Atrix had impressive hardware but was limited by carrier restrictions, prompting the community to create a custom Android 4.4 ROM that improved its functionality. The evolution of Android has involved collaboration among manufacturers, Google, and a passionate user community dedicated to innovation and customization.
AppWizard
July 26, 2025
Steam has added two new games to its library that are currently available for free. One game, Oil Sheik, was released on July 24 and has an 88 percent approval rating, described as a turn-based strategic puzzle game about creating and expanding companies and trading stocks. The other game, Inverta, entered Early Access on July 18 and is a 2.5D puzzle-platformer with a focus on gravity manipulation, but has received only three positive user reviews. One game is marked as “Unsupported” on the Steam Deck, while the other has an “Unknown” compatibility status.
Winsage
July 25, 2025
Recent research indicates a significant shift in the IT landscape as businesses transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, coinciding with the emergence of AI PCs. A study by Dell reveals that 80% of UK businesses are migrating to Windows 11, viewing it as a strategic opportunity to adopt AI-ready PCs. 71% of IT decision-makers believe this transition allows for upgrades to more powerful AI PCs. Nearly half of respondents recognize AI PCs for their advanced security features (47%) and enhanced productivity (44%), while 64% consider AI-capable hardware essential for future operations. Security breaches motivate 46% of IT leaders to refresh their PC fleets, surpassing the 42% updating due to Windows 10 end of support. Challenges include software compatibility (45%), hardware compatibility (34%), and potential operational disruptions (32%), with 20% of businesses yet to start their transition. Additionally, 62% of IT decision-makers prefer a Copilot+ PC over traditional models, driven by benefits like longer battery life and superior performance.
AppWizard
July 23, 2025
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is an action-heavy soulslike game set in 14th century China during a plague, with a release date of July 24, 2025, priced at .99. It is developed by Leenzee and published by 505 Games. The game features a combat system that allows players to engage in battles while dodging attacks and using spells without a mana bar, supported by a skill tree for upgrades. However, the combat experience can become repetitive, with a lack of variety in enemy design and encounter mechanics. The environments are visually appealing but can feel disjointed, and the game struggles to establish a unique identity, often echoing elements from FromSoftware's titles. It does not include multiplayer and is verified for Steam Deck. The game was reviewed on an RTX 5090, Intel Core i9 12900K, and 32GB RAM.
AppWizard
July 22, 2025
Mojang has released the Smurfs DLC for Minecraft, allowing players to explore Smurf Village and engage in various challenges. Key features include stealth missions with Azrael, potion battles against Gargamel, and opportunities to uncover hidden treasures and interact with Smurfs characters. The DLC is now available for players.
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