prompts Archives

Winsage

January 18, 2026

Windows 11 KB5074109 issues: black screen, freezes Outlook POP, breaks Azure Virtual Desktop, LocalizedResourceName (desktop.ini)

Windows 11 KB5074109 has caused several issues for users, particularly those with Nvidia GPUs, including black screens, Outlook freezing with POP accounts, and problems with File Explorer's desktop.ini settings. Users have reported random black screens and desktop freezes after installing the update, with some finding temporary relief by changing their monitor's DisplayPort mode. Outlook Classic has been problematic, remaining active in the background and freezing shortly after opening, prompting users to terminate the process in Task Manager or uninstall the update. Additionally, the update disrupts Azure Virtual Desktop functionality, leading to sign-in failures and connection issues. Microsoft has acknowledged these problems and is investigating solutions, including a Known Issue Rollback for AVD. The update also breaks the LocalizedResourceName directive in File Explorer, preventing folder name customization. Users can uninstall the update through Settings, but this may expose them to security vulnerabilities.

Winsage

January 17, 2026

Windows 11 shutdown bug: Microsoft confirms KB5073455 issue

Microsoft has acknowledged a shutdown issue affecting Windows 11 Enterprise and IoT editions after the January 13, 2026 security update (KB5073455) for version 23H2, which prevents affected systems from shutting down properly, causing them to either hibernate or restart instead. The problem is linked to the System Guard Secure Launch feature and does not affect Windows 11 Home and Pro editions. A temporary workaround involves using the command "shutdown /s /t 0" in an elevated Command Prompt to force a shutdown, but there is no workaround for hibernation functionality. Microsoft is working on a resolution and suggests that enterprise IT administrators consider pausing the deployment of the update on unaffected devices.

Tech Optimizer

January 17, 2026

ClickHouse: $400 Million Series D Raised, Langfuse Acquisition, And Native Postgres Service Debuted

ClickHouse has secured 0 million in a Series D funding round led by Dragoneer Investment Group, with participation from investors such as Bessemer Venture Partners, GIC, and others. The funding will support global expansion and product development, focusing on AI infrastructure and application monitoring. ClickHouse currently has over 3,000 customers on its ClickHouse Cloud platform, with an annual recurring revenue growth exceeding 250% year over year. Recent adopters include Capital One, Lovable, and Airwallex, alongside established clients like Meta and Tesla. ClickHouse has acquired Langfuse, an open-source platform for LLM observability, and introduced a native Postgres service for integrating transactional workloads with its analytical engine. The company is also expanding its ecosystem and geographic reach through partnerships, including one with Japan Cloud and collaboration with Microsoft Azure.

Winsage

January 17, 2026

Tired of Copilot? Winslop lets you easily purge Windows 11’s AI features

A new application named Winslop has emerged for Windows 11, allowing users to remove AI features like Copilot that they find unnecessary. Winslop operates locally on users' systems and provides a user-friendly interface to identify and eliminate these functionalities. It has received positive feedback for effectively removing Copilot prompts and other AI elements, enabling a more traditional computing environment. Winslop is not an official Microsoft product, and users are advised to proceed with caution as it operates outside of Microsoft’s ecosystem. It follows the release of another tool, FlyOOBE, which was also designed to disable Copilot functionalities. Discussions at CES 2026 indicated that many PC manufacturers recognize the confusion caused by AI for consumers, suggesting a potential shift away from AI-centric devices. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with user preference in technology.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

Meet ChatGPT Translate: OpenAI’s new tool rivals Google Translate

OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Translate, a new online translation tool that supports over 50 languages and offers real-time translations with automatic language detection. It allows users to customize the tone, fluency, and complexity of translations. The tool has a dedicated website and hints at future features like image and file translation, though these are not yet available. Currently, it lacks voice input and full website translation capabilities. There is no standalone app or integration with the existing ChatGPT application at this time.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

How to remove Copilot from Windows 11

Microsoft has introduced Copilot on Windows 11, which has generated mixed reactions from users. Many users express a preference for operating without it, and the difficulty of uninstalling Copilot, which often reinstalls itself, has contributed to dissatisfaction. Microsoft is working on a solution for permanent removal in future updates. A guide has been created to assist users in removing Copilot, which includes three steps: 1. Preventing auto startup by disabling it in Task Manager. 2. Preventing auto installation by modifying the Registry Editor to create a DWORD value named TurnOffWindowsCopilot and setting it to 1. 3. Uninstalling Copilot through the Settings app. Following these steps allows users to effectively remove Copilot from their systems.

Winsage

January 14, 2026

Microsoft Adds Copilot AI to Windows 11 File Explorer Amid Privacy Debates

Microsoft is enhancing its artificial intelligence capabilities in Windows 11 by potentially integrating its Copilot AI into File Explorer, as indicated by recent code discoveries in insider preview builds. This integration may introduce a new Copilot button or sidebar, allowing users to engage with AI for contextual queries about files, such as summarizing documents or organizing folders. Concerns have been raised regarding privacy and system performance, as the AI could access local files. The integration may also include chat capabilities, prompting fears of data exposure. Microsoft has assured users that Copilot prioritizes local processing and operates with consent. However, critics worry about the potential for intrusive AI suggestions and the possibility of forced updates. The integration is expected to leverage Microsoft's agentic AI framework and may require advanced hardware for optimal performance. Financial incentives, such as Copilot Pro subscriptions, are also a factor in this strategic push. User feedback will be crucial in determining the success of this integration, with mixed reactions from the tech community regarding privacy and control.

AppWizard

January 13, 2026

How to set up Android Parental Controls on your kid’s phone

Google has enhanced parental control features for Android users through the Family Link app, which allows parents to manage their children's device usage. A significant update in December 2025 introduced a dedicated parental controls settings page within the Settings app for Google Pixel devices running Android 16 or newer. This update streamlines the process, allowing parents to implement controls easily without using a separate app. Parents can access both Family Link and device limits from one location, with options to password-protect settings. The setup process includes selecting a supervising Google account and reviewing various control options. The integration with the Family Link app remains, allowing further management from a parent's device. The Google Pixel 10 is highlighted as a device that supports these enhanced parental controls, featuring a triple-camera setup and a powerful Tensor G5 chip.

Tech Optimizer

January 13, 2026

Trusted Antivirus Protection for PCs

Your PC requires robust antivirus protection due to its diverse usage, and Windows 11 offers built-in protections that operate seamlessly. Antivirus software, such as Microsoft Defender in Windows 11, protects against threats like viruses, malware, phishing websites, and suspicious email attachments. However, it cannot fully defend against social engineering scams, new ransomware, zero-day vulnerabilities, or risky online behaviors. Microsoft Defender provides automatic threat scanning, works with the Windows firewall, utilizes cloud intelligence, alerts users to unsafe content, and offers ransomware protection. To enhance security, users should keep software updated, use strong passwords, secure their Wi-Fi, enable firewalls, and back up files regularly.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

Tech Bloggers Switch to Linux Over Windows Privacy Woes in 2026

In early 2026, many prominent technology writers are transitioning from Windows and macOS to Linux-based systems, citing frustrations with Windows 11's mandatory updates, privacy concerns, and software bloat as key reasons for the shift. The appeal of Linux is bolstered by advancements in gaming compatibility, user-friendly distributions, and a growing open-source community. While some users face challenges such as a steep learning curve and software incompatibilities, the overall sentiment is positive, with predictions suggesting significant growth for Linux desktops in 2026. Economic factors, including the cost of proprietary software and hardware demands, are also driving users towards Linux, which remains free and efficient. Community support plays a crucial role in easing the transition, and there is optimism about Linux's potential to capture more market share in various fields, despite some realism regarding the need for proprietary software in certain workflows.