permissions Archives

Winsage

June 1, 2025

A week of hell with my Windows 11 PC really makes me appreciate the simplicity of Google’s Chromebook laptops

The author's PC experienced significant issues while trying to run DOOM: The Dark Ages, primarily due to problems with NVIDIA RTX graphics drivers on a system equipped with an Intel Core i7-14700K and NVIDIA RTX 5080. The Windows 11 Start Menu became unresponsive, leading to a complete system failure despite attempts to roll back and update drivers. The author used a USB drive with a Linux installer as a temporary solution but continued to face crashes. Attempts to reinstall Windows were complicated by an incorrectly formatted USB stick, which needed to be exFAT. Ultimately, the author resolved the issues by wiping both SSDs and creating fresh partitions. The author also noted the complexity and bloat of Windows 11 compared to the simplicity of ChromeOS, which has become a reliable alternative for tasks and gaming.

Winsage

May 31, 2025

Resize your windows the right way on macOS using MacsyZones

The user transitioned from Windows to Mac and found macOS generally positive but lacking certain productivity features, particularly a built-in window snapping function similar to Windows' FancyZones. A third-party application called MacsyZones has been introduced, which allows users to create custom layouts for window snapping, enhancing workflow. The installation of MacsyZones is straightforward, and it resides in the menu bar with a minimalist interface. Users can create layouts by naming them and resizing windows, with each layout assigned a snap key for easy activation. MacsyZones allows for asymmetrical layouts, enabling one window to occupy a larger portion of the screen while others take up smaller spaces. This customization is beneficial for multitasking and improves productivity, especially for users with multiple applications or secondary monitors.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Microsoft is done being subtle – this new tool screams “upgrade now”

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as the end of support deadline approaches. To facilitate this upgrade, Microsoft has introduced Windows Backup for Organizations, a tool designed to streamline backups and assist businesses in migrating to Windows 11. This tool, announced at Microsoft Ignite in November 2024 and currently in limited public preview, helps organizations back up and restore Windows settings during device resets or reimaging. It aims to reduce troubleshooting, ensure smoother transitions, and enhance productivity by minimizing downtime. To use this tool, systems must be Microsoft Entra joined, and organizations need an active Microsoft Intune test tenant with Intune service administrator permissions. As of April 2025, Windows 10 holds a 52.9% market share, while Windows 11 has 43.7%. Microsoft must upgrade a significant portion of its user base by the deadline or encourage enrollment in the Extended Security Updates program.

AppWizard

May 30, 2025

Pixel VIPs could be the Contacts app upgrade you didn’t know you needed (APK teardown)

Google is testing a new feature for its Contacts app called the Pixel VIPs widget, which consolidates information for up to eight selected contacts. The widget displays recent calls and messages (including from third-party apps), real-time location updates, birthday reminders, and a notes section. It is sized at 4×1 and can be added to the home screen for easy access. Users can set it up by navigating to the Contacts app, selecting the Organize tab, and tapping on Pixel VIPs. The feature is currently in development, with a potential public release coinciding with the upcoming Android 16 QPR1 update.

Tech Optimizer

May 30, 2025

I put Bitdefender and Norton up against each other to see which was best, and the results were almost too close to call

Bitdefender has a detection rate of over 98% for malware, while Norton has a 97% offline detection rate and exceeds 99% online. Bitdefender's firewall is configurable but limited to its Total Security package, whereas Norton offers a powerful and customizable firewall. Bitdefender provides a separate Digital Identity Protection service for .33 per month, while Norton includes identity theft protection through its LifeLock service in higher tiers, offering features like credit monitoring and potential compensation up to million. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily data cap, while Norton offers an unlimited VPN in most subscription tiers. Both have password managers, but Bitdefender lacks two-factor authentication. Bitdefender offers straightforward parental controls, while Norton includes mobile GPS tracking. Bitdefender is recognized for its lightweight design, while Norton is noted for its speed. Bitdefender has a user-friendly interface, while Norton’s may be more complex for beginners. In independent tests, Bitdefender slightly outperforms Norton in offline detection. Norton's basic plan starts at .99 per year, while Bitdefender's Antivirus Plus starts at .99 per year.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Microsoft unveils “centralized” software update tool for Windows

Microsoft is developing a Windows-native update orchestration platform to improve the software updating experience for IT administrators and end-users. This platform aims to streamline the management of updates across various applications and components within the Windows ecosystem, reducing confusion caused by independent updates for different products. Currently in private preview, developers can access the platform through Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs and PowerShell commands by registering as update providers. The orchestrator will intelligently defer updates based on user activity and system performance, and it will automatically reschedule failed attempts. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing Windows Backup for Organizations to assist with the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This feature simplifies the backup and restoration of settings for Windows 10 and 11 devices. To use this functionality, devices must be Microsoft Entra hybrid joined or Microsoft Entra joined and running a supported version of Windows. The restore feature is compatible only with Microsoft Entra joined devices running Windows 11, version 22H2 and later. The Windows Backup for Organizations feature is currently in a limited public preview for select members of the Microsoft Management Customer Connection Program.

AppWizard

May 29, 2025

How to Manage App Permissions on your Android phone

Users can manage app permissions on Android devices by following these steps: 1. Open phone settings and select "Security and privacy." 2. Choose "Permission manager." 3. Tap "Start" on the intro screen. 4. Select a permission type to revoke or grant. 5. Tap the app to change its permission. 6. Deny permission by selecting "Don't allow" if the app already has access. While managing permissions is important, some apps require specific permissions to function properly, so users should be informed about the permissions they grant.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just A$23

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is currently available for a reduced price of A, down from A0, until June 1. It features a streamlined interface, improved voice typing, robust search functionality, advanced security measures including biometric logins and encrypted authentication, integration with Microsoft Teams, Azure Active Directory for managing logins, Hyper-V for virtual machines, Windows Sandbox for secure file experimentation, touch navigation, and support for DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming. The system requirements include at least 4GB of RAM and 40GB of hard drive space, and compatibility issues may arise for users unable to install updates via Windows Update.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Microsoft opens Windows Update to third-party apps

Microsoft has introduced a Windows Update orchestration platform to enhance the update experience for app developers and management tool vendors by centralizing update scheduling across Windows 11 devices. A select group of developers will have access to this framework, which allows applications to register their own update logic through WinRT APIs and PowerShell, enabling centralized scheduling, logging, and policy enforcement. The platform supports MSIX/APPX and Win32 apps that use designated APIs and commands, and is currently available as a private preview. Additionally, Microsoft has launched Windows Backup for Organizations, now in limited public preview, designed to back up Windows 10 and 11 devices while preserving user settings. This service is intended to facilitate system migrations and provide a safeguard against malware or ransomware. Specific requirements for participation include having a supported version of Windows and being enrolled in certain Microsoft programs.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Upgrading to Windows 11 just got easier – Microsoft introduces a new business backup tool

Windows has introduced a new backup tool for organizations, currently in limited public preview, designed to assist in backing up Windows settings during the resetting or reimaging of user devices. This tool supports both Windows 10 and Windows 11, facilitating smoother migration to Windows 11. It was announced at Microsoft Ignite in 2024 and aims to reduce migration overhead and user disruption. Organizations must operate Microsoft Entra joined Windows systems, have an active Microsoft Intune test tenant, and possess Microsoft Intune service administrator permissions to participate in the preview. Additionally, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for businesses unable to upgrade to Windows 11 before Windows 10's end of support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft has also introduced a feature for developers that allows software to seek updates via Windows Update for a more unified app update experience.