passkeys Archives

Winsage

July 18, 2025

Top 6 new features that landed on the Windows 11 Insider Program during the first half of July 2025

During the first half of July 2025, Microsoft released at least six preview builds for Windows 11, including four in the Canary and Beta Channels for version 24H2 and two in the Dev Channel for version 25H2. Notable features introduced include: 1. Quick Machine Recovery (QMR): A feature in build 27898 that minimizes downtime during boot failures by detecting and resolving issues via the Windows Recovery Environment and Windows Update. It is enabled by default on Windows 11 Home and can be configured on Windows 11 Pro. 2. Adaptive Energy Saver: An option in the Energy Saver mode that automatically activates based on system telemetry, available on devices with battery backup starting with build 27898. 3. App Permission Dialog: A redesigned modal that appears centrally on the screen when an app requests special permissions, introduced in build 27898. 4. Administrator Protection: A security feature that generates an authorization dialog for unsigned or untrusted applications seeking elevation, enabling it through Windows Security settings. 5. Passkeys with External Providers: Support for third-party passkey providers, starting with build 26200.5670, allowing users to create and use passkeys with 1Password. 6. Click to Do Image Description: An updated feature in build 26200.5702 that uses AI to describe images, available for Copilot+ PCs, with future support anticipated for Intel and AMD systems.

AppWizard

July 6, 2025

Microsoft app to delete all passwords forever – how to avoid losing yours

Microsoft Authenticator will remove its password-saving function by August 2025, resulting in the deletion of all password data stored within the app. Users are advised to export their passwords to alternative locations, such as the Microsoft Edge browser, which will become the primary password management solution. Passwords will not be encrypted during the transfer, so it is recommended to delete the exported file afterward. The shift is part of Microsoft's move towards using passkeys for enhanced security, which allows quicker sign-ins using biometric data.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

You can use 1Password passkeys directly in Windows 11 soon

Microsoft is testing a deeper integration of 1Password’s passkey feature within Windows 11, marking a shift towards a passwordless future. Passkeys enhance security by combining possession (like a smartphone) and biometric identifiers (like face or fingerprint). To enable the integration, users must install the 1Password Beta and navigate to Settings > Passkeys > Advanced options, requiring verification through Windows Hello. This feature is currently available in the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (KB5060838) within the Dev Channel.

Winsage

June 28, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4520 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.4520 (KB5060834) has been released to the Beta Channel for users on Windows 11, version 24H2. This update includes new features, improvements, and fixes, which are being gradually rolled out. New features include: - A passwordless improvement in collaboration with 1Password, allowing users to integrate a plugin passkey provider and authenticate using Windows Hello. - Temporary disabling of Japanese support in voice access due to bugs. - Changes to default browser settings, where the new default browser will be pinned to the Taskbar and Start menu unless opted out. Fixes include: - Resolved crashes in File Explorer Home and issues with thumbnail visibility. - Addressed duplicate entries in the Start menu and animation issues with folder expansion. - Fixed a crash involving ctfmon.exe and resolved a memory leak related to the lock screen slideshow. - Improved responsiveness of system dialogs to text scaling. Known issues include: - New Beta Channel joiners may experience a rollback issue during installation. - Touch navigation in the Start menu may not function reliably, and drag-and-drop capabilities are limited. - Xbox Controller users may encounter bugchecks via Bluetooth. - Narrator scan mode may not function correctly in File Explorer for AI actions. - Limitations in pinning within the new widgets board experience. Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2 via an enablement package, with features rolled out using Controlled Feature Rollout technology. Some features may not be publicly released and could change based on feedback.

Winsage

June 28, 2025

Microsoft is testing tighter integration with 1Password’s passkeys in Windows.

Microsoft is integrating 1Password’s passkeys within the Windows ecosystem to enhance user experience. This feature is currently in the testing phase and is available to Windows Insiders in the Dev Channel who install the beta version of 1Password.

Winsage

June 27, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26200.5670 (KB5060838) has been released to the Dev Channel. Key updates include: - Passwordless Improvements: Integration with 1Password for passkey management, allowing users to sign in using Windows Hello after enabling the plugin credential manager. - Versioning Update: The build updates the versioning to 25H2, marking it as this year's annual feature update. - Voice Access: Support for Japanese is temporarily disabled due to bugs. - Settings Update: The new default browser will be pinned to the Taskbar and Start menu unless opted out. - File Explorer Fixes: Issues causing crashes and thumbnail disappearances have been resolved. - Start Menu Fixes: Duplicate entries and animation inconsistencies have been corrected. - Input Fixes: A significant crash affecting typing capabilities has been addressed. - General Fixes: Resolved an issue with the boot sound and fixed a memory leak related to the lock screen slideshow. - Known Issues: Users may experience rollback errors during updates, touch navigation issues in the Start menu, and bugs with Xbox Controllers via Bluetooth. - Reminders: Updates are rolled out gradually, and features may evolve or be removed based on feedback.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Windows 10 is dying as scams skyrocket. We asked a security expert for advice

In this week's episode of The Full Nerd, hosts Adam Patrick Murray, Alaina Yee, Will Smith, and guest Mike Danseglio discuss the end of Windows 10 and its security implications, the rise of scams, and various online security concerns. They explore user transitions to Windows 11, Linux, and vulnerabilities in communication methods. A recent vulnerability allows hackers to steal encryption keys from AMD Ryzen CPUs, prompting firmware updates for users of the Ryzen 3000 series or newer. Asus Armoury Crate users are advised to update due to a critical flaw that could grant hackers administrative rights. Cloud gaming is gaining traction among gamers under 40, provided latency issues are resolved. DDR4 memory prices are rising, indicating a decline of AMD’s AM4 platform. Anker has recalled older power banks due to fire hazards, and Framework has launched a new 2-in-1 DIY laptop. AMD has shared promising benchmarks for its upcoming Ryzen Threadripper 9000 series.

AppWizard

June 5, 2025

Emerging online scams are making users more vigilant, says Google

Over 60% of U.S. consumers have encountered scams, indicating a growing awareness of digital threats. More than 60% of Gen X and Baby Boomers still use traditional passwords, while younger generations prefer passkeys. Google has enhanced scam detection capabilities on Android devices, introducing features to identify potential scams in calls and texts. Over 60% of consumers perceive an increase in scams over the past year, with one-third reporting personal data breaches. Google promotes passwordless sign-in options like passkeys and "Sign in with Google" to improve security. Recent updates include enhanced scam detection in Google Messages and Chrome, and the Safety Check feature in Chrome now monitors for malicious notifications. Google has also released findings on prevalent scams, such as customer support fraud and package tracking schemes.

AppWizard

May 30, 2025

Android 16 beta testers get a look at its Advanced Protection security bastion

Google is rolling out the Advanced Protection feature for Pixel devices enrolled in the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 program, which includes browsing safeguards, app protections, and USB transfer restrictions. This feature aims to enhance device security and protect against online threats. The Advanced Protection Program was originally launched for users at risk of data breaches and was expanded last year to include passkeys and a simplified enrollment process. Additionally, an "Intrusion Detection" feature was noted, designed to log user activity for suspicious behavior. The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update was released on May 20, 2025, and introduced a new design language called Material 3 Expressive.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Android Auto Just Got a Social Music Upgrade with Spotify Jam

Google is enhancing the Android Auto experience by integrating its Gemini technology and introducing new car app templates for developers. The updated Spotify app will feature "Spotify Jam," allowing passengers to contribute to the car's playlist and control audio output. Users can activate the Jam feature by pressing a button and joining via a QR code. The updated Spotify app is expected to roll out in the coming months, with Amazon Music and YouTube Music also set to adopt the new templates. Video applications will soon support an audio-only mode for listening while driving, and Quick Share will enable content sharing between smartphones and vehicles. Google plans to implement passkeys and credential manager APIs for security enhancements and will enable video and web browser apps on older Android Auto platforms.