operating systems Archives

Winsage

April 29, 2025

Even now, Windows Vista is the most hated OS, and here’s why

Windows Vista was developed as a successor to Windows XP and was originally codenamed "Longhorn." The project faced significant challenges, leading Microsoft to abandon the original XP framework in favor of a foundation based on Windows Server. Despite its ambitious goals, Vista struggled to achieve a positive reception in the industry. The video explores Vista's development, its mixed legacy, and the lessons learned from its challenges in software development.

AppWizard

April 29, 2025

Google’s Android Decision—Bad News For 50% Of All Users

Google will implement changes to app functionality on Android devices starting next month, affecting over half of all Android users. The changes are driven by the Play Integrity API, which aims to reduce fraud and data theft, resulting in an 80% reduction in unauthorized app usage. Devices running Android 13 and above will experience improved performance, while those on Android 12 or older may face slower performance. Google is also introducing enhanced security signals for developers to assess device trustworthiness. Over half of Android devices have not upgraded to Android 13 or later, and approximately 200 million users remain on Android 12, which no longer receives security patches. Users on Android 12 or 12L are advised to upgrade for better security and performance.

Winsage

April 29, 2025

Windows isn’t an OS, it’s a bad habit bordering on addiction

Microsoft's Windows operating system has approximately 1.5 billion users globally, but faces stagnation as many users find Windows 10 satisfactory and are reluctant to upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft is pushing Windows 11 aggressively, incorporating AI features and nudging users toward paid services, which raises concerns about user experience. The company is uncertain about its future direction, with Project Hudson Valley fading away and the potential for a subscription-based licensing model. In corporate environments, IT departments often prioritize compliance over user needs, leaving employees with limited choices. Some users are exploring alternatives like macOS or Linux, seeking better alignment with their values. Resources are available to help users transition gradually from Windows 10 to alternatives, and maintaining a dual-system approach can ease this process.

Winsage

April 29, 2025

Microsoft Confirms $1.50 Windows Security Update Fee Starts July 1

Microsoft has introduced a subscription model for no-reboot security "hotpatch" updates, which will be available for Windows 11 Enterprise, version 24H2, and Windows Server 2025. Users must operate on Windows Server 2025 Standard or Datacenter, connected to Azure Arc, to access these updates. Starting July 1, 2025, there will be a charge of [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In the realm of operating systems, security updates are paramount, especially when they pertain to software utilized by billions globally. However, Microsoft has recently found itself in a challenging spotlight following a controversial Windows security patch that inadvertently introduced a mysterious folder, sparking a wave of confusion and concern among users. Social media commentators hastily advised users to delete this folder, only for Microsoft to counter with a warning that such actions could leave systems vulnerable to attacks. This incident has now unveiled a broader issue within the Windows security update framework, particularly surrounding the introduction of a subscription model for no-reboot security “hotpatch” updates. What Is Windows Hotpatching, And Who Needs To Pay The .50 A Month Fee? As previously reported, Microsoft is advancing towards a system where hotpatching will eliminate the need for users to reboot their Windows systems after a security update. This innovative feature allows security fixes to be downloaded and installed seamlessly in the background, integrating directly into the in-memory code of processes that are already running. Initially, this functionality is set to be available for a specific segment of users: those operating Windows 11 Enterprise, version 24H2, on x64 (AMD/Intel) CPU devices managed through Microsoft Intune. Recent confirmations from Janine Patrick, Windows Server product marketing manager, and Artem Pronichkin, a senior program manager at Microsoft, indicate that the hotpatching system for Windows Server 2025, which has been in preview since 2024, will transition to a subscription-only model starting July 1. To utilize the no-reboot hotpatch security updates, users must operate on “Windows Server 2025 Standard or Datacenter,” with an essential requirement of being connected to Azure Arc. The noteworthy and contentious aspect of this announcement is the introduction of a subscription fee for the Hotpatch service. While hotpatching has long been available for Windows Server Datacenter: Azure Edition at no cost, users of Windows Server 2025 will incur a charge of .50 per CPU core each month for these security updates. Microsoft emphasizes that while hotpatching will significantly reduce the frequency of required reboots—approximately four times a year for baseline updates—this new approach aims to alleviate the traditional inconveniences associated with Patch Tuesday." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 per CPU core each month for the hotpatch service, which aims to reduce the frequency of required reboots to approximately four times a year for baseline updates.

Winsage

April 27, 2025

Legendary Voodoo4 GPU modded into laptop, benchmarks work with Windows XP

Daniel Simionescu, known as sdz, has been working on porting the Voodoo graphics from 3dfx to mobile platforms, resulting in a design that integrates a Voodoo4 GPU into a Dell Precision M4800 laptop via a custom MXM card. YouTuber Omores tested this setup with Windows 98 and XP, facing initial compatibility issues but ultimately achieving partial functionality. The Voodoo brand was significant in the late 90s for making 3D acceleration accessible. sdz created a PCB with the Voodoo4 GPU using the VSA-100 core and 64MB of SDR memory. During testing, various VBE drivers were explored, with Windows XP showing better compatibility for running 3DMark 2001 and Need for Speed: Porsche Unleashed. Games using the Glide API may require wrappers, and the community plans to compile a list of supported titles. sdz intends to keep the design open-source for collaboration.

Winsage

April 26, 2025

Windows 11’s Recall AI is now rolling out on Copilot+ PCs

Microsoft has announced the rollout of Windows Recall, a feature for Windows 11 systems with KB5055627 on Copilot+ PCs. Recall uses AI to capture and store visual information from the screen, allowing users to find previously viewed content by describing it in everyday language. Initially unveiled in May 2024, Recall faced privacy concerns, leading Microsoft to pause its rollout for further testing. The feature is now optional and includes enhancements to filter out sensitive information. Recall is part of Windows 11 Build 26100 and will be widely available with the May 2025 Patch Tuesday Update.

Tech Optimizer

April 26, 2025

How to disable the PC webcam and protect it from unauthorized access

The webcam is a crucial tool for remote communication but poses privacy risks, particularly through a threat known as CamFecting, where unauthorized access can occur via malware, malicious websites, or system vulnerabilities. Preventive measures include using antivirus software, disabling the webcam when not in use, and physically covering the camera with privacy caps or tape. Signs of unauthorized access include unexpected illumination of the webcam light, unusual camera behavior, unknown files on the system, abnormal data consumption, and decreased battery life. To deactivate the webcam, users can adjust settings in major browsers and operating systems. Maintaining digital hygiene, such as regularly updating software, using security systems like firewalls and VPNs, and being cautious of phishing attempts, is essential to minimize risks.

Winsage

April 26, 2025

5 great features Windows 8 introduced that it doesn’t get enough credit for

Windows 8 introduced several significant features: 1. The Startup tab in Task Manager simplified managing startup tasks, allowing users to easily view and disable unnecessary applications, improving system performance. 2. The Ribbon UI in File Explorer made a wide range of options accessible, enhancing efficiency in file management tasks like copying, moving, and deleting files. 3. Internet Explorer 10 and 11 improved support for modern web standards and performance, making them competitive options, especially for touch devices. 4. OneDrive integration allowed users to view cloud files directly in File Explorer without downloading them, enhancing convenience and efficiency. 5. Windows 8 provided an intuitive touch experience with a tile-based Start menu and smooth animations, offering a fluid and responsive environment for tablet users.

AppWizard

April 25, 2025

25 Years Later, This Cult-Classic Capcom JRPG Has Been Modernized For PC

Breath of Fire 4 has been re-released by GOG as a new PC port that is DRM-free and optimized for Windows 10 and 11. The game features both English and Japanese localizations and supports modern controllers, including the Sony DualSense. Enhancements include restored sound effects, new rendering options, and fixes for previous crashing issues. Originally launched for PlayStation in 2000, this is the second PC port, following the first in 2003. The game's story involves two isolated continental powers and the protagonist Ryu, who can transform into a dragon, as he seeks to stop an immortal emperor. GOG has also been expanding its game preservation program, which started in November 2024, and allows community voting on classic titles for revival.

Winsage

April 24, 2025

6 first world Windows 11 problems I desperately want Microsoft to fix

Windows 11 creates local user directories using the first five letters of a user's email address instead of their actual name, which can be frustrating for users. The Taskbar thumbnail preview animations are lacking fluidity compared to previous Windows versions. Dark mode is inconsistent, with light mode interfaces appearing in various parts of the OS. Task View and Virtual Desktops animations can be choppy on systems without dedicated graphics cards. The transition between the Start menu and the Search pane feels abrupt and unrefined. Additionally, ads within Windows 11 lack personalization, leading to frustration for users who already subscribe to Microsoft services.