Qualcomm Snapdragon X Archives

Winsage

May 18, 2026

Why Your Windows 11 PC Doesn’t Get AI Features

Several hundred million Windows 11 users are experiencing frustrations due to the absence of Microsoft features like Recall and Cocreator, which are only available on Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft has divided Windows 11 into two tiers, with the latest AI functionalities requiring specific hardware known as Copilot+ PC. To qualify, a device must have: - An NPU capable of at least 40 TOPS - A minimum of 16 GB of RAM (DDR5 or LPDDR5) - At least 256 GB of SSD storage - Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer - A processor from specific families: Qualcomm Snapdragon X series, Intel Core Ultra 200V (Lunar Lake), or AMD Ryzen AI 300 series Many PCs lack these features due to missing NPUs, insufficient TOPS ratings, unsupported processor generations, outdated Windows versions, rollout delays, or regional limits. Features locked behind Copilot+ include Recall, Click to Do, Cocreator in Paint, Windows Studio Effects, Live Captions with Translation, Improved Windows Search, and Auto Super Resolution. To check for Copilot+ compatibility, users can verify the presence of an NPU in Task Manager, ensure they have Windows 11 version 24H2 or newer, and confirm their processor against the approved list. While some workarounds exist to enable features on unsupported PCs, they are often unstable and not recommended for primary use. Most users may not need to upgrade their laptops unless they require on-device AI features or their current device is significantly outdated. The AI feature gap is not currently critical for most users, as many features are optional or not essential.

Winsage

April 13, 2026

Paint (25H2)

Microsoft has updated Paint significantly with the rollout of Windows 11, enhancing both its user interface and core functionalities. Key updates include the introduction of a Dark mode, an updated Text tool, layer capabilities similar to Photoshop, and support for transparent PNG files. Paint now features AI-driven tools, some of which require a Microsoft account and a Microsoft 365 subscription, while others are accessible on any PC or require a Copilot+ PC. Customization options in Paint are limited; users cannot disable any image creation or editing features but can change the app theme and configure watermark settings for AI-generated content. The toolbar can be set to auto-hide, and users can view their work in full screen by pressing F11. New features include the ability to save projects with multiple layers, a Remove background tool, an Image Creator for generating images from text prompts, and a Generative erase tool for removing objects from images. Copilot+ PCs unlock additional features that operate locally, such as Object select, Sticker generator, Cocreator, and Generative fill, which requires specific hardware capabilities.

Winsage

April 2, 2026

Windows 11 Task Manager is finally getting deeper insights into NPU usage in AI PCs — No more trying to guess which apps are using the specialized hardware

Windows 11's Task Manager is being updated to provide more detailed insights into Neural Processing Unit (NPU) performance. The latest Insider Preview Build 26300.8142 introduces optional columns for NPU Dedicated Memory and NPU Shared Memory in the Details tab, along with showcasing neural engines associated with the GPU in the Performance tab. The NPU was first introduced in mainstream devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon X chips and Microsoft Copilot+ PCs in 2024. Many new laptops and desktops now come equipped with NPUs, compatible with Copilot+, regardless of whether they use Qualcomm, Intel, or AMD hardware.

Winsage

February 27, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: Make Windows 11 More Secure ⭐

Windows 11 offers a mix of security and privacy features, with a recommendation for users to opt for a Copilot+ PC with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X-series processor for enhanced security. Most users log in with a Microsoft account, which provides benefits such as two-factor authentication, device-bound passkeys, account recovery options, and automatic disk encryption. However, using a local account poses security risks, including limited recovery options and lack of support for key security features. To secure Windows 11, users should take several steps during initial setup or later, including enabling Windows Security features, verifying device encryption, and enhancing sign-in security through Windows Hello options like facial and fingerprint recognition. Additional security features such as Controlled Folder Access and Smart App Control can be configured for better protection. Users are advised to remove unnecessary third-party security apps and keep Windows 11 and installed applications up-to-date to maintain security. Regular updates and proper configuration of Windows Update settings are also essential for preventing disruptions and ensuring data safety.

Winsage

February 22, 2026

Windows 12 Forecast Six Expert Predictions

Microsoft is preparing for the release of Windows 12, which is expected to feature an AI-native experience with deep integration of Copilot, showcasing capabilities like on-screen comprehension, voice activation, and task automation. The hardware requirements will be elevated, necessitating 16GB of RAM, rapid NVMe storage, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for advanced features. Windows on Arm is gaining momentum, with improvements in app compatibility and battery life, while a modular architecture called CorePC is being developed to facilitate faster updates and enhance security. Licensing for Windows 12 is expected to remain unchanged for consumers, with optional cloud-enhanced services available. The update cadence will increase, allowing for faster feature drops independent of major OS releases, with the Windows Insider Program continuing to test new features. Upon its release, Windows 12 will integrate Copilot, provide a more cohesive OS core, and support both x86 and Arm architectures.

AppWizard

January 22, 2026

Arm-Based Windows 11 PCs Can Now Download and Play Games from the Xbox App

Microsoft's Xbox app on Windows 11 now supports game downloads on all ARM-based PCs, expanding functionality beyond cloud gaming for Qualcomm-powered devices. This update follows an initial rollout for Xbox Insiders in August, coinciding with Epic Games' compatibility of its Easy Anti-Cheat system with Windows on ARM. The Prism emulator was updated in December to support more x86 games on ARM devices, and the Xbox app now includes a Windows Performance Fit feature to assess game performance based on hardware. Over 85% of the Game Pass catalog is compatible with ARM PCs, with ongoing efforts to increase support. Emulation performance has improved on Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series chips, with further enhancements expected from upcoming X2 series chips, although native ARM64 game versions are still anticipated.

Winsage

December 2, 2025

Ask Windows Central: The best Cyber Monday PC deals and why waiting could cost you big in 2026

- Microsoft’s Surface Pro 11 is a top performer this Black Friday and Cyber Monday, currently priced at 9 with no discount. - The Microsoft Surface Pro 12-inch with keyboard is priced at 9, down from 9. - The original Steam Deck LCD was recently discounted from 9 to 9, but the deal has been retracted. - The Lenovo Legion Go S is available for 9, down from 9. - Two 3-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate cards can be purchased for .98, allowing access for six months and saving . - The Dell 15 laptop is priced at 9, featuring an Intel Core processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. - The Surface Laptop 7 is available for 9, a 0 discount from its usual price of ,599. - The HP OmniBook 5 16-inch is priced at 9, down from 9, and offers up to 34 hours of battery life. - The HP ProBook 4 G1i is currently available for 8, down from its typical retail price of ,000. - Microsoft’s Windows Ugly Sweater has sold out.

Winsage

November 1, 2025

Windows 11 tests shared Bluetooth audio support, but only for AI PCs

Microsoft is testing a "shared audio" feature on Copilot+ PCs that utilizes Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology, allowing simultaneous audio streaming to two Bluetooth devices. This feature is part of Windows 11 Build 26220.7051 (KB5067115) and can be activated through quick settings. Currently, it is compatible with select PCs, including various models of Surface laptops and Surface Pro devices, and will expand to additional devices in the future, such as Samsung Galaxy Book models. Users will need compatible audio accessories to utilize the feature, which is being rolled out to Windows Insider Program participants in the Dev and Beta channels.

Winsage

November 1, 2025

Extending Bluetooth® LE Audio on Windows 11 with shared audio (preview)

Today, the shared audio (preview) feature has been rolled out in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26220.7051) for Dev and Beta Channels, allowing users to share audio between two Bluetooth audio devices simultaneously. This feature utilizes Bluetooth LE Audio broadcast technology and is currently available on select Copilot+ PCs, with plans to expand support to more devices in the future. Users can share audio by connecting two compatible Bluetooth LE Audio accessories to their Windows 11 PC and accessing the “Shared audio (preview)” tile in quick settings. Compatible devices include specific Surface Laptop and Surface Pro models, as well as Samsung Galaxy Book models. Compatible Bluetooth LE Audio accessories include Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Galaxy Buds3, Galaxy Buds3 Pro, Sony WH-1000XM6, and recent hearing aids from ReSound and Beltone. To use the feature, users must enroll in the Windows Insider Dev or Beta Channels and ensure their OS and drivers are updated. Feedback from users is encouraged to improve the experience.

Winsage

October 13, 2025

Time’s Up on Windows 10. Upgrade to Windows 11 With One of These Laptops

To select the right laptop, identify your needs and consider a 13-inch or 14-inch model with a budget of approximately 0 to ,000. Within this range, expect good battery life, satisfactory display, reliable performance, and a comfortable keyboard and touchpad. Key specifications include at least 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. The Dell 14 Plus is a recommended model, and laptops under 0 may compromise on quality. For optimal performance, lightweight laptops should use Snapdragon X chips or Intel Core Ultra 7 258V. For gaming, consider Nvidia RTX 50-series GPUs, with significant upgrades between the RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti. Aim for a minimum of 16 GB RAM, with 32 GB recommended for gamers and creators. Storage should be at least 512 GB, with one or two terabytes preferred. Consider screen size, resolution, refresh rate, and panel type when choosing a display. Portability is influenced by the laptop's thickness and weight. Modern laptops often have limited ports, primarily USB-C and headphone jacks, so ensure necessary connectivity options are available.