operating system

Winsage
August 18, 2025
Microsoft is enhancing the dark mode feature in Windows 11, a decade after its introduction in Windows 10. The latest preview build of Windows 11 includes updated file operation dialogs with a dark theme, moving away from the previous light-themed prompts. However, some elements, such as light buttons within these dark-themed prompts, indicate that the transition is still in progress. Key components like the Control Panel and file properties UI remain in light mode. Incremental changes may lead to a more extensive overhaul with the upcoming 25H2 update. Users express skepticism about the speed of these changes, recalling the lengthy integration of dark mode in Windows 10.
Winsage
August 18, 2025
The Microsoft Store has changed its app update policy, limiting users to delaying individual app updates for a maximum of five weeks, down from the previous option to pause updates indefinitely. Users can manage these settings in the App updates section of Settings, where they will receive notifications about the potential risks of missing critical updates. This change is part of a broader trend in Microsoft's update policies, which previously allowed indefinite pauses for operating system updates but now enforces a 35-day limit. The motivation behind these changes is primarily focused on enhancing security by encouraging timely installation of updates. The new policy applies only to apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store, and users seeking indefinite delays may need to consider alternative sources, albeit with the risk of missing important security updates.
Winsage
August 18, 2025
Recent updates for Windows 11 and Windows 10 have caused significant stability issues linked to a bug in the Microsoft Defender update, making some solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard drives (HDDs) unreadable. The issue was first reported by a user on Twitter and affects drives that contain the Windows operating system, leading to potential system failures. The problem is particularly prevalent in the latest 24H2 versions of Windows 11 and several updates for Windows 10. It appears to be associated with certain drives using a specific NAND controller from Phison. The bug is triggered during heavy write sessions to NVMe SSDs and HDDs, especially when writing or backing up data exceeding 50 gigabytes. The range of affected drive models is unclear, and users are uncertain about potential solutions, including firmware updates.
Winsage
August 18, 2025
Microsoft has changed its approach to automatic updates for apps in the Microsoft Store, limiting users to a maximum delay of five weeks for updates. After this period, updates will be installed automatically, regardless of user preference. This change raises concerns about the balance between security and user control, as mandatory updates aim to enhance security and stability but may also lead to risks associated with automatic installations. Users may prefer to postpone updates due to potential dissatisfaction with changes in app functionality.
AppWizard
August 18, 2025
Effective August 20, 2025, the Amazon Appstore will cease to support Android devices, ending over fifteen years of service. Users are advised to uninstall all apps downloaded via the Amazon Appstore to mitigate security risks, as these apps will no longer receive updates or security patches. Users should transition to alternatives in the Google Play Store, which offers built-in security features. Additionally, Amazon Coins will also be discontinued on the same date, with unclear details on refunds for remaining balances. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the urgency of this transition to avoid potential threats from outdated applications.
AppWizard
August 18, 2025
Amazon is closing its Appstore for Android and its Coins program this week, shifting focus to Fire TV and Fire Tablet devices. This marks the end of a 14-year operation for the Appstore, which competed with the Google Play Store. Advertisers targeting Android users will need to adjust their strategies, as the Google Play Store is expected to become the primary platform for app promotions. Users can still access their subscriptions on Fire TV and Fire Tablets and can cancel subscriptions for refunds if they extend beyond August 20, 2025. Amazon advises users to migrate to apps on the Google Play Store and delete remaining apps on their Android devices. The Coins program, launched in 2013, will also be discontinued, and any remaining Amazon Coins after August 20, 2025, will be refunded to users.
Winsage
August 18, 2025
Microsoft is testing an enhanced dark mode experience for operating system dialog notifications in Windows 11 build 26100.5061, released on August 14. This feature is currently not universally accessible, as it remains concealed within the operating system's files. Advanced testers have identified and enabled these features using tools like ViVeTool, although caution is advised due to potential risks. Despite the introduction of dark mode in 2016, many areas of Windows still operate in light mode, and certain UI elements may not transition to dark mode. Users have expressed frustration over the timeline for a cohesive dark mode experience, contrasting it with Apple's seamless implementation in macOS.
Winsage
August 18, 2025
Microsoft's security update for Windows 11, KB5063878, has been linked to SSD failures during intensive file transfers. A user reported that their SSD disappeared while updating a game, particularly when transferring data over 50GB on a drive more than 60% full. Rebooting the system temporarily restored the SSD's visibility, but the issue recurred. A specific Western Digital SA510 2TB SSD was reported as irretrievable even after a restart. Other users have experienced similar problems, including a SanDisk Extreme Pro M.2 NVMe SSD becoming inaccessible after a large update. While the issue has been noted by multiple users, it does not appear to be widespread, and there is no definitive link established between the updates and the failures. Users are advised to exercise caution with large file transfers on systems with the latest update.
Winsage
August 18, 2025
Microsoft released a Defender security update during the August 2025 Patch Tuesday, targeting the Lumma stealer and other malware, which included the Windows 11 24H2 cumulative package (KB5063878). Early installations faced an error code, 0x80240069. Testing revealed that some solid-state drives (SSDs) became inaccessible and displayed unreadable SMART telemetry after sustained sequential writes of about 50 GB. A Japanese tester, NichePCGamer, documented failures in 21 different drives during tests involving large file transfers, particularly when controller utilization exceeded 60%. Failures were noted in several Phison-based NVMe models and other drives, with symptoms often reappearing after a reboot. Users are advised to back up data and avoid lengthy transfers on systems updated to KB5063878 while investigations continue.
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