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5 ways your Windows updates are about to get a lot less painful
Winsage
April 29, 2026

5 ways your Windows updates are about to get a lot less painful

Microsoft is implementing changes to the Windows Update process in Windows 11 to address user frustrations. Key updates include: 1. Users can delay updates indefinitely by selecting specific end dates for pauses, extending up to 35 days at a time. 2. The Power menu will now include options for "Update and shut down" and "Update and restart," giving users more control over when updates are finalized. 3. Microsoft is consolidating updates to reduce the number of restarts to one per month. 4. Users will no longer be forced to install updates during the setup of a new Windows PC, allowing updates to occur in the background. 5. Microsoft will provide more detailed information on updates, particularly for driver updates, by clarifying the device class in the titles. These changes are expected to be tested in the Windows Insider program before being released to the general public.
Steam Controller is incompatible with all your Game Pass games, but a community fix could save the day
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

Steam Controller is incompatible with all your Game Pass games, but a community fix could save the day

Valve has announced the release of the Steam Controller, set to launch on May 4, 2026. The controller is designed to work with anything running Steam but does not support other gaming platforms or launchers. It requires the Steam client to be running for full functionality, including the use of both analog sticks. The controller can operate without the Steam client for basic trackpad and keyboard operations, but features like the Steam on-screen keyboard are only accessible when the client is open. Non-Steam games must be launched through Steam to be played with the controller. The Steam Controller does not natively support console devices such as Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch. While there are tools to add non-Steam games to a Steam library, they do not provide Steam Input support. Community initiatives may emerge to extend support for the new controller.
Here's How Microsoft's New Windows Insider Channels Work
Winsage
April 28, 2026

Here’s How Microsoft’s New Windows Insider Channels Work

Microsoft has transformed its Windows Insider program by introducing three new channels: Experimental, Beta, and Release Preview. The Experimental channel combines the previous Dev and Canary options, allowing users to test new features with less stability. The Beta channel has been updated to ensure all users receive the same features simultaneously, eliminating gradual rollouts. The Release Preview channel offers the least risk, providing access to updates before their official release. Users now have more control over the features they trial, with the ability to enable or disable specific features through a new "Feature flags" page. Additionally, switching between channels has been simplified, allowing smoother transitions without needing a complete PC wipe, except when moving to the Experimental Future Platforms channel.
Here's how the Minecraft subreddit banded together to help a father find his distraught daughter's lost animal sanctuary
AppWizard
April 28, 2026

Here’s how the Minecraft subreddit banded together to help a father find his distraught daughter’s lost animal sanctuary

A father sought help from the Minecraft subreddit to locate his daughter's lost zoo creation after it vanished following her adventure in The Nether. Despite attempts to find it using various strategies, they were unsuccessful. User Hamzeol_Murf requested the save game data, which led to a group of players using the data to locate the zoo within an hour. The coordinates were shared, allowing the father and daughter to reunite with the zoo. One player, Loganfincain, explained the method used to find the zoo, which involved converting the world from Bedrock to Java and using a program called MCA Selector. The thread received 700 upvotes and 70 comments, highlighting the community's collaborative spirit.
Windows Wrap: Microsoft finally remembers why Windows enthusiasts matter
Winsage
April 27, 2026

Windows Wrap: Microsoft finally remembers why Windows enthusiasts matter

Microsoft is revitalizing Windows 11 by rebooting the Windows Insider Program to better engage with user feedback and improve the operating system. The company aims to address bugs and enhance quality, signaling a shift in its approach. Recent developments indicate a renewed enthusiasm for the program, which has historically played a significant role in shaping user experiences and technology careers. Additionally, Surface enthusiasts are creating their own accessories through 3D printing due to unmet demands from Microsoft.
Windows Wrap: Windows 11 is getting its spark back
Winsage
April 27, 2026

Windows Wrap: Windows 11 is getting its spark back

Microsoft is revitalizing the Windows Insider Program to reconnect with its user base and enhance Windows 11. The program, which previously fostered community engagement and innovation, is being rebooted to prioritize user feedback and improve quality. Significant updates to Windows 11 have been announced, and there is a push to recognize the contributions of Insiders. Additionally, Surface enthusiasts are creating their own accessories through 3-D printing due to a lack of official offerings from Microsoft.
Microsoft drops Copilot branding in Notepad for Windows 11 for everyone, but it’s really just a rename
Winsage
April 27, 2026

Microsoft drops Copilot branding in Notepad for Windows 11 for everyone, but it’s really just a rename

Microsoft is refining the integration of its AI features in Windows 11 applications, specifically Notepad and the Snipping Tool. On March 20, Microsoft announced plans to streamline Copilot integration, focusing on useful experiences and reducing unnecessary entry points in apps like Notepad, Snipping Tool, Photos, and Widgets. In the latest version of Notepad, 'Copilot' has been rebranded as 'Writing Tools,' which includes AI functionalities such as rewriting, summarizing, and generating new content. These tools are accessible through the Writing Tools menu or the right-click context menu, and users can toggle them off under 'Advanced Features' in Settings. Conversely, the Snipping Tool has completely removed AI functionality, with the Copilot button eliminated for users in the production channel. This indicates a shift in Microsoft's approach to AI integration, retaining it in some applications while removing it from others.
Forced Windows updates can now be paused forever
Winsage
April 27, 2026

Forced Windows updates can now be paused forever

Microsoft has introduced updates to its Windows Update system, allowing users to pause updates indefinitely for up to 35 days and reset this limit as needed. Users can also shut down or restart their devices without being forced to install updates. These changes are in response to user feedback about disruptions caused by unexpected updates. The new features are currently being rolled out to participants in the Windows Insider program, specifically in the Dev and Experimental Channels.
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