permission Archives

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Copilot’s new look: bokeh, daisies, and fewer “what do I even do here?” vibes

The Copilot app for Windows 11 has been updated to version 1.25082.132.0 and higher, introducing a new "home experience" with a vibrant layout that integrates seamlessly with the operating system. Key features include enhanced Start Menu access for managing privacy settings related to recent files, the ability to create permanent Pages for ongoing research, and an app-specific quick launcher that utilizes Copilot Vision for contextual assistance. The app also includes a recent conversations window for easy access to previous inquiries. Microsoft is testing a potential return of the 'share' functionality and has introduced Copilot Labs for users to experiment with new features. Additionally, a memory function in the Android app allows Copilot to learn user preferences by asking questions based on prior interactions.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Microsoft moves more options from Control Panel to Settings

Microsoft is transitioning users from the traditional Control Panel to the Windows Settings app in the latest build 27928 for Windows 11 Insider Preview Canary Channel. This update includes features such as adding multiple clocks, selecting a time server, and relocating time formatting settings to the Settings app. Users can also enable Unicode UTF-8 for better language support. Microsoft has indicated a desire to phase out the Control Panel, although it remains available for compatibility. New features for the Copilot App include semantic file searches using natural language queries, management of permissions for what Copilot can access, and a list of recent documents compatible with the chatbot. The Copilot interface aims to provide easy access to recent applications, files, and conversations.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Copilot on Windows: Semantic Search and new home begin rolling out to Windows Insiders

Microsoft has rolled out an update for the Copilot app on Windows, introducing several new features. The update includes a semantic file search feature that allows users to find files using natural language queries, such as "find images of bridges at sunset" or "find my CV." This feature is available on Copilot+ PCs and ensures user privacy by allowing management of permissions. The update also introduces a new Copilot home experience that consolidates recent apps, files, and conversations for easy access. Users can receive guided assistance by clicking on recent applications and can upload documents or photos into the Copilot chat for summarization and discussion. Copilot references the standard Windows "Recent" folder to display recently accessed files, ensuring privacy by not scanning the entire system. The Vision feature allows users to receive real-time guidance based on screen content or attached files. The update is being gradually rolled out (version 1.25082.132.0 and higher) across all Insider Channels via the Microsoft Store, and users are encouraged to provide feedback within the app. The app works with specific text, image, and document formats and is optimized for select languages. Supported file types for upload include .png, .jpeg, .svg, .pdf, .docx, .xlsx, .csv, .json, and .txt.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Copilot on Windows App Adds Semantic File Search and New Homepage for Insiders

Microsoft is testing a semantic search feature and a redesigned homepage within its Copilot app for Windows, available to Insiders on Copilot+ PCs. The semantic file search allows users to find documents and images using natural language prompts. The Copilot app includes a robust permission system for user control over what the chatbot can access. The updated homepage displays recent apps, files, and conversations for easier access to resources. The Windows Insider team confirmed that Copilot does not scan the entire system or upload files without user consent. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced the Windows 11 Canary build 27928, which moves more time and language settings from the Control Panel to the new Settings app.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

The latest Windows 11 update will fix a 10-year-old interface bug

The Windows 11 update 25H2 will focus on fixing bugs from the previous version 24H2 and will include enhancements, particularly to the dark mode. The dark mode will feature a more uniform appearance across all windows and system buttons, addressing previous inconsistencies where some elements appeared in light mode. Updates include a dark gray file copy interface and darker tones in confirmation windows, although some issues, such as light mode buttons in administrator permission windows, remain. These updates are currently available only through manual activation in Windows Insider builds and have not been officially announced by Microsoft.

AppWizard

August 18, 2025

Confirmed—These 20 popular Android apps are accessing your microphone, location and files without you knowing it… and thus spying on you

A study by Which? and Hexiosec analyzed 20 popular Android apps, revealing that many request excessive permissions beyond their core functionalities. Notably, Xiaomi Home requested 91 permissions, Samsung SmartThings 82, Facebook 69, and WhatsApp 66. TikTok and Temu also raised concerns for their permission requests, while Amazon defended its need for camera access for product scanning. Additionally, 16 of the tested apps attempted to display pop-up windows over other applications, indicating aggressive monitoring tactics. Users are advised to check app permissions, set them manually, deactivate background access, download official apps, and keep their devices updated to protect their privacy.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

Microsoft finally fixes Windows 11’s broken Dark mode after nearly a decade – The Times of India

Microsoft is updating dark mode in Windows 11 to address inconsistencies that have persisted since 2016. Recent preview build 26100.5061 shows dark themes applied to file operation dialogs, which previously remained bright. While the window backgrounds are now dark gray, some buttons still appear lighter, indicating ongoing work. The updates may be included in the Windows 11 25H2 update later this year. Despite the improvements, other legacy interface elements like the Registry Editor and Group Policy windows still need to be addressed for a consistent dark mode experience.

Winsage

August 16, 2025

10 Windows features that would actually help productivity

Windows has been perceived as prioritizing corporate interests over user preferences, with persistent prompts for subscriptions and data collection through Microsoft accounts. In a recent interview, Pavan Davuluri, Microsoft's corporate VP of Windows + Devices, discussed a future vision for Windows that integrates voice, vision, and touch, but raised questions about user demand for these changes. Users have expressed a desire for specific features to enhance productivity, including: 1. Multiple clipboards for simultaneous content copying. 2. Two or three visible clocks in the taskbar for time zone management. 3. A fourth modifier key for customizable keyboard shortcuts. 4. The ability to remap all keyboard shortcuts. 5. A movable, resizable taskbar for better workspace control. 6. A firewall for audio to manage sound interruptions. 7. The ability to pin apps to specific screens on multiple monitors. 8. A feature to launch multiple related apps at once. 9. An easy audio device switching option on the taskbar. 10. A reduction in Microsoft-induced distractions and notifications.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

Beware the strange file in your messages: This “antivirus” app fakes scans, then watches everything

A new Android app called LunaSpy poses as an antivirus or banking protection tool but is actually sophisticated spyware. It spreads mainly through messaging platforms like Telegram, using social engineering tactics to prompt users to grant extensive permissions by generating fake “threats found” notifications. Once granted access, LunaSpy can read text messages, extract credentials, track locations, and record audio or video. The app is distributed through links that encourage users to sideload an APK rather than downloading from the official Play Store. It requests excessive permissions that legitimate antivirus apps would not demand, making devices vulnerable to data exfiltration. Users are advised to avoid installing APKs from chat links, uninstall suspicious applications, review and revoke excessive permissions, and take steps to secure their accounts.

AppWizard

August 11, 2025

Google Wallet now wants your location before it’ll show receipts

Google Wallet now requires users to enable the “Precise location” setting on Android devices to access detailed maps and addresses on payment receipts, a feature that was previously available by default. This change, implemented in late July, prompts users to activate location access when viewing receipts that lack map features. Enabling location permissions will only affect new transactions and will not retroactively update past receipts.