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Winsage
July 9, 2025
Windows 11 version 25H2 introduces a feature called Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages, allowing users, particularly IT administrators, to remove preinstalled Microsoft applications such as Camera, Sound Recorder, Windows Media Player, Xbox, Windows Terminal, and Notepad. This feature is accessible under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment and simplifies the uninstallation process compared to previous methods like PowerShell. Users may still see non-functional shortcuts in the Start menu after removal. The first preview build of version 25H2 was released recently, and a public release is expected later this year. Similar uninstall features will also be available in version 24H2, though disabled by default. Windows 11 has recently surpassed Windows 10 in user base, partly due to the upcoming end of Windows 10 support.
Tech Optimizer
July 8, 2025
Amazon Prime Day features significant deals in cybersecurity, including the Norton 360 Premium package, which offers coverage for ten devices. Norton includes anti-scam protection that identifies malicious links, robust malware detection, and parental controls for online safety. It also provides a Secure VPN for encrypting internet traffic and uses Genie AI to monitor the dark web for personal information leaks, notifying users of data breaches. Other Prime Day antivirus options include basic software for single-device protection and family plans with limited device coverage.
BetaBeacon
July 7, 2025
The text describes five Android games that offer versatile worlds, actions, adventures, and murder mysteries. Some of the games mentioned are Monster Train, Trinity Trigger, Chronomon, Jenny LeClue, and Pandoland.
Winsage
July 7, 2025
The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update will introduce a new policy called the Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages, which allows users to remove unwanted Microsoft applications in a single action through Group Policy. This feature aims to simplify the process of debloating Windows 11, which has historically been cumbersome. Users can find this setting under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment. The policy currently supports the removal of various Microsoft applications but does not extend to third-party software. While initial tests show the policy functions as intended, further refinement is needed to address issues like orphaned shortcuts. This feature will not be available to Windows 11 Home users.
Winsage
July 5, 2025
Microsoft claims that laptops and desktop PCs running Windows 11 are "up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs." Windows 10, the most widely used desktop operating system, powers over 1 billion devices but will stop receiving free updates after October 14, 2025. Users can pay £22 for an additional year of support. The performance comparison is based on Geekbench 6 benchmarks, contrasting new Windows 11 devices with older Windows 10 systems. Between May and June 2025, Windows 11 usage increased by over 4%. Microsoft plans to release Windows 11 Version 25H2 later this year, which will feature a redesigned Start menu and a new CPU throttling feature. Users eligible for a free upgrade can benefit from a smoother installation process. Microsoft offers free security updates to Windows 10 users who subscribe to OneDrive; otherwise, the £22 fee applies. Some users may be hesitant to upgrade due to Windows 10's superior gaming performance in certain scenarios.
Winsage
July 3, 2025
Microsoft has acknowledged issues with the latest Windows 11 updates, particularly affecting the update preview released last Friday. Users have reported firewall error messages and some computers failing to boot after applying the updates. The Windows Release Health Notes indicate that these firewall errors, specifically event number 2042 related to Windows Defender Firewall, can be ignored as they do not indicate a malfunction. The issue is linked to a function under development and primarily impacts Windows 11 24H2, with a resolution planned for a future update. Additionally, users of older Fujitsu Esprimo PCs have reported startup problems after installing the June security updates, with affected devices displaying a black screen. Investigations suggest these issues may be related to a DBX update affecting bootloaders when Smart Boot is enabled. Users have speculated that outdated BIOS may be a factor, and instructions for updating firmware have been shared, although they are not user-friendly. Microsoft has not confirmed the startup issues with Fujitsu PCs and is not currently working on a specific solution.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
PowerToys has released version 0.92, introducing several enhancements: - Command Palette: Improved performance with Ahead-of-Time (AOT) compatibility for first-party extensions and core UX fixes. - Color Picker: Users can customize mouse button actions for a personalized workflow. - Bug Report Tool: Streamlined reporting process with progress indicators, improved compression, and automatic cleanup of old trace logs. - File Explorer Add-ons: Enhanced rendering stability, fixing issues with PDF previews, blank thumbnails, and text file crashes. Additional highlights include: - Crop & Lock: Updated window styling to match the current Windows theme. - Command Palette Extensions: New commands like "Copy Path" and improved input handling in the Calculator extension. - FancyZones: Resolved DPI-scaling issues for high-resolution displays. - PowerRename: Now supports date-based renaming with flexible formatting options. The development team has also made updates to enhance performance and security, including updates to .NET libraries and the WinAppSDK. PowerToys is available for free download through the Microsoft Store or GitHub.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
Microsoft has decided not to release a standalone "Windows 12" and will instead focus on the upcoming Windows 11 version 25H2, with a wider rollout expected in the latter half of 2025. The latest Insider Preview build for this version is now available to testers. The 25H2 update will build on the existing 24H2 release, allowing users to transition seamlessly with a small enablement package that mimics a routine update installation. Features from the 24H2 Beta Channel will be included in the 25H2 preview, with enhancements already integrated but disabled until ready. The official support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025, and the timing of the 25H2 launch may encourage users to upgrade. Enterprises will receive a 36-month support cycle, while consumer editions will have 24 months of servicing. Windows Insiders can explore the preview now and provide feedback, with a simple restart required for activation upon official release.
Winsage
June 30, 2025
Microsoft has unveiled Windows 11 25H2, which will feature a streamlined upgrade process using a "shared servicing branch" for updates, reducing download sizes by approximately 40 percent compared to previous updates. This new method allows for quicker transitions, with updates delivered quietly in the background and activated via an enablement package upon reboot. The anticipated rollout is likely in September or October, though specific release details and features remain limited. Recent test builds have suggested new functionalities, including a dashboard for Recall technology and passkey integration with 1Password.
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