printing Archives

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows 11 February 2026 Update Is Now Available With 3 New Features

Microsoft has released a non-security feature preview update for Windows 11, designated as version KB5077241, which introduces performance and visual enhancements. This optional update is available for all Windows 11 users and is not yet part of the stable channel, with a full release expected on March 10. Key features of the update include: 1. A built-in network speed test accessible via the taskbar, allowing users to evaluate their network connection's performance. 2. Improvements to the taskbar search function, enabling result previews without opening additional windows. 3. Minor system upgrades, including backup and restore options for select Windows Professional devices, new emojis, an updated accounts menu, a built-in system monitor, and a revamped widgets settings menu. 4. Enhancements to printing services, nearby sharing features, and Windows Update, along with new camera settings for supported devices. 5. Performance improvements in File Explorer, including more reliable window opening using shortcuts and the introduction of an "Extract All" option for non-ZIP archived folders. 6. Optimizations in the Network page of File Explorer for better device display and improvements in display responsiveness after sleep.

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows Could Be the Reason Your Printer Refuses to Cooperate

Microsoft has phased out support for older V3 and V4 printer drivers in Windows 11, marking them as deprecated since September 2023. While printers using these drivers will still function, they will no longer receive automatic updates through Windows Update, potentially leading to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues. User feedback is mixed, with some appreciating the move towards modern driver architecture and others concerned about manufacturers' ability to adapt.

Winsage

February 21, 2026

HP Smart App On Windows: Setup & Troubleshooting

The HP Smart app is a software application designed to enhance interaction with HP printers, allowing users to print, scan, copy, and manage their printers from a computer or mobile device. The installation process on Windows involves downloading the app from the Microsoft Store, installing it, launching it, and adding the printer. Common issues include the app not finding the printer, crashing or freezing, scanning difficulties, and printing problems, with various troubleshooting solutions provided for each issue. Tips for maximizing the app's functionality include using mobile fax, editing photos, printing from social media, and utilizing cloud printing. Keeping the app up-to-date is important for performance and security, with options for automatic and manual updates available through the Microsoft Store and HP support.

Winsage

February 18, 2026

Releasing Windows 11 Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918 to the Release Preview Channel

Windows 11 Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918 (KB5077241) have been released for Insiders in the Release Preview Channel, covering versions 24H2 and 25H2. The update features a gradual rollout method for updates and includes various new features and enhancements: - Emoji 16.0 introduces a selection of new emojis. - Windows Backup for Organizations now includes a first sign-in restore experience. - Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) is activated for non-domain joined Windows Professional devices. - A built-in network speed test is accessible from the taskbar. - Taskbar improvements enhance the visual experience of the overflow area. - A new entry point in the account menu directs users to the Microsoft account benefits page. - Windows supports Microsoft Entra ID group and role SID resolution. - Users can control pan and tilt for supported cameras in the Settings app. - Sysmon functionality is now included natively in Windows for capturing system events. - Widget Settings now opens as a full-page experience in the Widgets app. - Users can set .webp image files as their desktop background. - The search process icon in Task Manager has been updated. - Storage Settings dialogs have been modernized, and performance for scanning temporary files has improved. - Enhancements have been made to Windows Update Settings for better responsiveness. - Reliability improvements have been implemented for the login screen and Nearby Sharing. - The Windows print service has been optimized for smoother performance during high-volume tasks. - File Explorer has received several improvements, including an extract all option for non-ZIP archive folders and enhanced reliability for displaying devices on the Network page. - Performance enhancements have been made to reduce resume-from-sleep time on heavily loaded systems. - Minor visual issues related to the taskbar, Windows Security pop-up credential fields, and the print dialog have been addressed.

Winsage

February 16, 2026

Microsoft changes how it manages MILLIONS of old printers

Microsoft has stopped distributing V3 and V4 printer drivers through Windows Update as of last month, affecting printers up to 12 years old. Support for these drivers will end in January 2026, as they were marked as deprecated in September 2023. Users with printers relying on these drivers may experience functionality issues after support ends. Printer manufacturers are now responsible for providing driver updates via their websites, but existing drivers will remain operational. Microsoft confirmed that vendor-supplied drivers can still be installed using separate packages. Most modern printers do not use V3 and V4 drivers, as they are typically over a decade old. Microsoft aims to enhance system security and streamline the printing process by phasing out outdated drivers. After July 2026, Windows will prioritize built-in printer drivers during installation, and from July 2027, manufacturers will no longer be able to submit driver updates to Windows, although Microsoft will continue to provide critical security updates for existing drivers.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

Hideo Kojima posts a cryptic message about ‘editing’ something and an awful lot of people are convinced it means Death Stranding 2 for PC will be announced later this week

Death Stranding 2 is currently not available on PC, but there are hints that it may be released soon. Hideo Kojima shared an image on his X account that suggests a PC version might be in the works, alongside a calendar for Death Stranding set for 2026 that appeared on the ESRB website in November 2025. A State of Play showcase is scheduled for February 12, which could potentially include an announcement about a PC release or a 'Director's Cut' version. The response to Kojima's hints has been optimistic, with speculation about a PC announcement growing.

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Your BitLocker-secured Windows PC isn’t so secure after all – unless you do this

Microsoft's BitLocker encrypts personal files on Windows hard drives to protect against unauthorized access in case of loss or theft. The BitLocker recovery key is essential for decrypting data, but Microsoft has confirmed it will comply with valid legal requests for access to these keys if they are stored in the cloud. This was highlighted during an FBI investigation in Guam, where Microsoft provided recovery keys related to a COVID unemployment fraud case. Microsoft receives about 20 requests for BitLocker keys annually, but many cannot be fulfilled if users do not store their keys in the cloud. The Guam case is the first known instance of Microsoft providing encryption keys to law enforcement, contrasting with a previous request from the FBI in 2013 that was declined. Users can choose to store their keys locally or in Microsoft's cloud, but storing them in the cloud carries risks of unauthorized access. For optimal security, it is recommended to save the recovery key on a USB stick or external drive, encrypting the file if necessary, and avoiding cloud storage. Users should check their BitLocker settings in Windows 11 or 10 to manage their recovery keys and consider removing any keys stored in the cloud.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7535 Adds Narrator Copilot Features and Removal Policy

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (KB5072046) to the Dev and Beta Channels, focusing on accessibility enhancements and improvements for managing Copilot features. The update introduces Copilot-powered image descriptions via the Narrator feature, allowing users to generate detailed descriptions of images on all Windows 11 devices. This functionality is available on Copilot+ PCs without cloud data transmission and is also extended to non-Copilot+ systems, though it is currently unavailable in the European Economic Area. Additionally, a new Group Policy option titled Remove Microsoft Copilot App allows administrators to uninstall the Copilot app under specific conditions. The build also includes a refresh of the Windows Spotlight desktop icon and various bug fixes addressing issues in the Start menu, File Explorer, printing dialog, Snipping Tool, and Windows Update. Known issues remain, including interaction problems in the Start menu and crashes in Settings. The features in this build are being rolled out gradually and may change before general release.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7535 Adds Narrator Copilot Features and Removal Policy

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535 (KB5072046) for users in the Dev and Beta Channels, aligning both with Windows 11 version 25H2. The update includes accessibility enhancements, streamlined Copilot management, and various bug fixes. Notably, it integrates Copilot with Narrator, allowing users to generate descriptions of images and visual elements. This feature works on both Copilot+ and non-Copilot+ PCs, with image sharing initiated only upon user request, though it is unavailable in the European Economic Area. A new Group Policy option allows administrators to uninstall the Copilot app from managed devices under certain conditions. The update also refreshes the Windows Spotlight desktop icon and addresses several bugs, including issues in the Start menu and File Explorer. Some known issues remain, such as interaction difficulties in the Start menu and crashes in Settings. Features in this build are subject to controlled rollouts and may change before general release.

AppWizard

December 29, 2025

Minecraft’s unofficial “WW1 update” uses the spear as artillery and lets you parry TNT

Minecraft players are innovating with new gameplay possibilities following the introduction of the spear in the Mounts of Mayhem update. The spear has been significantly buffed, making it one of the most lethal craftable weapons in the game. Players are using it to enhance TNT cannons, allowing for greater explosive range and effectiveness in combat. Additionally, players are exploring creative projects, including advanced siege engines and concepts reminiscent of World War 1, such as airships and artillery. It is now possible for players to redirect moving TNT blocks, introducing new gameplay mechanics like parrying TNT.