party Archives

BetaBeacon

December 28, 2024

Top 5 mobile games of 2024: Stephen’s picks of the year

- In 2024, the author's favorite games included Pocket Necromancer, Yolk Heroes: A Long Tamago, Bella Wants Blood, Guncho, A Little to the Left, Pokemon Go, and Vampire Survivors. - The author enjoys opening packs in Pokemon TCG Pocket and playing games that evoke nostalgia. - The author dislikes clutter and enjoys playing games that are perfect for short bursts of play. - The author is looking forward to adding Dredge and Last Spartan: Glory of Madness to their collection in 2025.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

Can you still enable classic Alt+Tab in Windows 11 24H2?

Microsoft has removed the classic Alt+Tab interface in Windows 11, particularly with the 24H2 update, and has made it impossible to restore this feature through registry tweaks or third-party applications. Users have attempted to create a DWORD value named AltTabSettings in the Windows Registry to revive the classic menu, but these efforts have been unsuccessful. The modern Alt+Tab layout introduced in the 22H2 update features larger icons and thumbnails, contrasting with the minimalist design of the classic interface. The removal of the classic Alt+Tab is viewed as a significant loss for users who appreciate retro-themed aesthetics in their operating system.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 24H2 installation issues, newer updates fail for some PCs

Windows 11 24H2 is a stable update compared to its predecessors, but users may face a significant bug that prevents new cumulative updates from installing if they used an updated ISO during installation. The issue arises when using a USB drive or other media to install Windows 11 24H2 with the October or November 2024 security updates, which can disrupt Windows Update. Problems can occur when using third-party tools to create a custom installation or modifying installation media, leading to conflicts with Windows Update. Microsoft does not provide additional ISO files with integrated newer updates, and users who customize their installation media may be unable to apply future updates. Microsoft has acknowledged that this issue affects a small number of PCs and recommends using the Media Creation Tool to create new installation media and reinstall the operating system as a workaround. A fix is expected to be addressed in January.

Tech Optimizer

December 27, 2024

Data protection advancements expected to shape 2025 security

Andrew Eva, the Global CIO of Assured Data Protection, predicts that by 2025, there will be a seamless integration of backup systems with ransomware detection, antivirus technologies, and intrusion detection systems. He highlights a collaboration between Rubrik and Google to provide enterprise customers with insights into known exploits for better early detection of malicious codes. Disaster recovery systems will take on a more frontline role in cyber threat management, utilizing machine learning to identify potential viruses. Ransomware is expected to remain the top cyber threat, prompting organizations to prioritize disaster recovery and backup solutions. Concerns about data security in relation to artificial intelligence will lead organizations to seek assurances regarding data protection from managed service providers (MSPs). The criteria for cyber insurance are tightening, making MSPs essential for businesses to meet these requirements. There is also an anticipated surge in demand for Backup-as-a-Service (BaaS), especially in healthcare, driven by resource constraints and a shift towards operational expenditures.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

The best Windows PowerToys tool is about to get a whole lot better

Microsoft announced that its PowerToys Run tool will undergo significant transformation in 2025, introducing new extensions for enhanced functionality and customization. Kayla Cinnamon shared a teaser trailer on Christmas Day, indicating the potential for third-party developers to create custom extensions. While a specific release date has not been provided, there is notable anticipation for the upcoming features and improvements.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

How to Use Windows on Meta Quest 3 Headsets

At Ignite 2024, Microsoft announced enhanced support for Windows applications on Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S devices, allowing users to access Microsoft’s suite of tools without additional software. Users can create multiple virtual windows for multitasking, such as switching between Microsoft Teams and spreadsheets. Previously, users accessed Windows apps via Air Link, Remote Desktop in Horizon Workrooms, or third-party software. The new integration allows streaming from a Windows 11 PC or virtual Windows Cloud PC, enabling quick access to Windows applications in an XR environment. This functionality includes creating multiple virtual monitors or a single large monitor while maintaining visibility of physical surroundings. The experience is supported by a program called “Volumetric Apps.” Microsoft has discontinued its “Windows Mixed Reality” platform but continues to support XR innovators. Microsoft also announced the end of software support for HoloLens 2 in 2027 and hinted at a new deal with Samsung for OLED displays for a future mixed-reality headset.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

Mic unmutes itself on Windows 11 [Fix]

Users experiencing issues with their microphone unmuting itself on Windows can try the following solutions: 1. Check the physical mute button for functionality. 2. Review the microphone app settings for auto-unmute features. 3. Disable exclusive mode by accessing sound properties and unchecking the option for applications to take exclusive control. 4. Adjust the Communications setting in sound properties to "Do nothing." 5. Test the microphone on a different PC to determine if the issue is specific to the current configuration. 6. Contact microphone support for additional assistance or firmware updates. Additionally, third-party software like Zoom or Skype can alter microphone settings, and voice-activated applications may automatically unmute the microphone to listen for commands.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

Permanently remove “Learn more about this picture” icon in Windows 11

Windows 11 users enabling the Spotlight feature for desktop backgrounds often encounter the "Learn more about this picture" icon, which many find distracting. Microsoft has not provided an option to remove this icon through Personalization settings, leading to significant feedback on the Microsoft Feedback Hub. Users can disable Spotlight entirely to avoid the icon or modify the Registry Editor to remove it while keeping Spotlight active. The steps include navigating to a specific registry path, creating a new DWORD value, and changing its data. Alternatively, users can use third-party applications like Explorer Patcher to hide the icon easily.

AppWizard

December 25, 2024

How to play Minecraft Bedrock on Steam Deck

Minecraft Bedrock Edition can be played on the Steam Deck using a third-party application called Prism Launcher, despite it not being natively supported. To play, users must switch the Steam Deck to Desktop Mode, install Prism Launcher from the Discover Software Center, and log in with their Microsoft account. After setting up the desired game version and optimizing settings, users can integrate Prism Launcher into Steam by adding it as a non-Steam game. Finally, they can switch back to Gaming Mode to launch Minecraft.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

Microsoft posts official uninstall and recovery guide for botched Windows 11/10 update

Microsoft released a new support article detailing the functionality of the Windows 11 feature 'Fix problems using Windows Update' and scenarios where it may not be effective. A shortcut link to the recovery settings menu has been introduced as part of the guidance for installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. Microsoft updated another support article regarding the uninstallation of Windows Updates, now including instructions for using the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for this purpose, applicable to both Windows 10 and 11. Users can uninstall updates via WinRE by accessing Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates. A disclaimer about the end of support for Windows 10 is also present on the page. Additionally, a cautionary note regarding BitLocker recovery key requirements is included. Microsoft has emphasized the importance of system requirements such as TPM and Secure Boot in relation to Windows 11 24H2. Third-party backup and cloning applications are making adjustments to align with these updates.