personal computer Archives

AppWizard

November 22, 2025

The 20 Best Xbox 360 Games of All Time

Microsoft transformed the Xbox brand from a traditional gaming console into a multifaceted platform emphasizing software accessibility across various devices, with the Game Pass subscription model allowing users to access a vast library of games on mobile phones and rival consoles. The Xbox 360 was launched on November 22, 2005, a year ahead of competitors, and became the most advanced console for a year despite technical challenges like the Red Ring of Death. Strategic partnerships and a diverse range of titles, including blockbuster franchises like Halo and Gears of War, contributed to its success. The Xbox 360's architecture resembled that of a personal computer, providing a technological edge over the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii. Innovations such as Xbox Live and Xbox Live Arcade distinguished the console, making it a hub for competitive and indie gaming. The Xbox 360 remains the best-selling device in the Xbox lineup, with defining titles including Perfect Dark Zero, Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts, Dead or Alive 4, Viva Piñata, Fable II, Ninja Gaiden II, Minecraft: Xbox 360 Edition, Fez, and Oblivion, highlighting its lasting legacy in gaming culture.

Winsage

November 20, 2025

Poor designs and plagiarism accusations: Forty years ago, Windows got off to a rocky start

In the early 1980s, the concept of a graphical interface was still a visionary dream, as computers were primarily navigated through text commands. Microsoft, with its MS-DOS software, was a leader in this text-based era. Bill Gates recognized the need for user-friendly computers, leading to the development of Windows, first introduced in 1983 and officially launched on November 20, 1985. Prior to this, elements of graphical interfaces had been conceptualized in the 1960s by Douglas Engelbart's team and realized in 1973 by Xerox with its Alto computer. The Alto's graphical interface inspired developers, including Gates and Steve Jobs. However, the initial reception of Windows was not successful, indicating challenges for Microsoft in redefining personal computing.

Winsage

November 20, 2025

Happy birthday, Windows! 40 years of operating system history and still going strong.

On November 20, 1985, Microsoft launched Windows 1.0, marking a significant milestone in personal computing. This software transformed the user experience by introducing a graphical user interface that used windows, icons, and mouse control, moving away from command line interfaces. Windows 1.0 was not a standalone operating system but a graphical overlay on MS-DOS, functioning as a 16-bit shell called MS-DOS Executive. It was initially released in the United States at a price of approximately 0. The interface featured non-overlapping tiled windows and required users to navigate primarily with a mouse. It included applications such as Paintbrush, Notepad, Write, Calculator, a clock, and Cardfile. The hardware requirements included an Intel 8086 or 8088 processor, at least 256 kilobytes of RAM, a graphics card, and two double-sided floppy disk drives or a hard drive. The initial reception was mixed, with critics noting its slow interface, poor compatibility with DOS programs, and limited application selection compared to competitors like Apple.

Winsage

November 15, 2025

Best Laptops to Get the Most Out of AI

Consumers are now prioritizing speed, extended battery life, and intelligent features powered by artificial intelligence in personal computers. Copilot+ PCs are equipped with advanced Neural Processing Units (NPUs), offering performance up to five times faster than a typical Windows laptop from five years ago. They provide up to 22 hours of video playback, making them suitable for professionals who need long-lasting battery life. Additionally, these PCs integrate AI capabilities within the Windows 11 environment to enhance productivity and creativity.

Tech Optimizer

October 29, 2025

2025 Antivirus Trends, Statistics, and Market Report

In 2025, approximately 66 percent of U.S. adults use antivirus software, with 25 percent using it on both business and personal devices and 41 percent using it only on personal devices. This leaves 34 percent of Americans without antivirus protection. About 169 million Americans actively employ antivirus software, but there is a 20 percentage point gap between the 85 percent who believe antivirus is essential and the 66 percent who use it. Protection levels vary by device type: 63 percent of personal computer owners use real-time antivirus software, 25 percent of smartphone owners do, and only 22 percent of tablet owners utilize antivirus protection. Among personal computer users, 69 percent of Windows users have antivirus software compared to 37 percent of macOS users. Antivirus adoption increases with age, with 73 percent of users aged 60 and older using antivirus on PCs, compared to 51 percent of those aged 18-29. The antivirus market has shifted toward free solutions, with free antivirus usage rising to 61 percent in 2025 from 52 percent in 2024, while paid subscription usage decreased from 44 percent to 36 percent. Free antivirus tools have improved significantly, but they often lack advanced features necessary for high-risk users.

Winsage

October 17, 2025

Microsoft Unleashes AI Revolution: Windows 11 Transforms Every PC into an ‘AI PC’ with Hands-Free Copilot as Windows 10 Support Ends

Microsoft has launched a significant update for Windows 11, coinciding with the end of free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This update integrates artificial intelligence deeply into the operating system, transforming Windows 11 machines into 'AI PCs' with hands-free interaction capabilities through the intelligent assistant, Copilot. Key features include "Hey Copilot" voice activation, Copilot Vision for analyzing on-screen content, and Copilot Actions for performing multi-step tasks autonomously. These advancements are available to all Windows 11 PCs, democratizing access to AI technology. The update is expected to drive a migration from Windows 10 and reshape the competitive landscape for AI and computing. Microsoft aims to make AI a fundamental part of the user experience, setting new standards for interaction and potentially impacting various device categories. Future developments will focus on enhancing AI capabilities and ensuring privacy and security measures are in place.

Winsage

October 14, 2025

Apple Mac grows 13.7% in Q3 to grab 9% global market share

Apple's Macintosh achieved a shipment growth of 13.7% year-over-year in Q3 2025, while the overall personal computer market grew by 9.4%, with global shipments reaching 75.8 million units. IDC noted that the North American market is facing challenges due to US import tariffs and macroeconomic uncertainties, yet there is strong demand for PCs compatible with Windows 11. Apple’s Mac captures approximately 70% of the global personal computer market's operating profits, with operating margins around 25%, compared to about 4% for other PC vendors.

Winsage

October 9, 2025

Windows 11 tops AI as main driver for PC sales

The increase in personal computer sales with AI capabilities is primarily driven by the refresh of Windows 11, not a significant shift towards AI-focused hardware. The end of support for Windows 10 on October 14 is a key factor motivating hardware upgrades. Kieran Jessop from Omdia notes that while AI-enabled PCs are gaining traction, most consumers prioritize traditional performance metrics such as battery life and software compatibility. He predicts a modest growth rate of about 1.1% for global PC shipments over the next four years, with a continuing need for hardware refreshes as many users still operate on outdated systems. Approximately half of the global install base consists of devices over six years old that do not meet Windows 11 requirements, and rising costs for Extended Security Updates will likely push enterprises to invest in new devices.

Winsage

October 9, 2025

Global PC Shipments Surge 9.4% in Q3 2025 on Windows 10 End

Global personal computer shipments increased by 9.4% year-over-year in the third quarter of 2025, reaching nearly 76 million units, according to IDC. This growth is attributed to the impending end of support for Microsoft’s Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting upgrades to Windows 11. Corporate refresh cycles, especially in the education and enterprise sectors, are driving this demand. Regions like Asia and Japan experienced double-digit growth, while North America reported weaker results due to trade tensions and proposed tariffs. Many devices are incompatible with Windows 11, necessitating replacements. Major manufacturers like Lenovo, HP, and Dell benefited from this trend, while smaller vendors faced challenges. The transition to Windows 11 is also influencing software development and peripheral markets, with a focus on AI-integrated features. Industry insiders anticipate continued momentum into 2026, although geopolitical factors may affect growth. Critics highlight concerns about electronic waste and the potential for functional Windows 10 machines to be discarded.

Tech Optimizer

September 24, 2025

Do you need third-party anti-virus software on a Mac?

Macs have become increasingly attractive targets for cybercriminals due to their rise in popularity, now ranking as the fourth most popular personal computer brand. A comprehensive test conducted by Macworld evaluated macOS's built-in security against over 130 known malware samples. The findings indicated that while macOS can be vulnerable if users ignore warnings, its built-in protections are generally effective. Testers were able to install malware by bypassing security prompts, but the overall conclusion was that vigilant users who heed macOS warnings can effectively protect themselves from most malware threats. Users who primarily download from the Mac App Store and pay attention to security prompts are generally safe.