recycling Archives

Winsage

April 8, 2025

What the Tech: Microsoft warning

Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14th, meaning users will no longer receive updates, technical assistance, or security fixes. Continuing to use Windows 10 after this date could expose computers to vulnerabilities. Users should check their system's compatibility with Windows 11 using the "PC Health Check" utility, consider recycling incompatible computers, explore trade-in options at retailers, and be aware of security risks associated with using Windows 10 post-deadline. If retaining an older PC, it is advisable to disconnect it from the internet. Buyers of used PCs should verify compatibility with Windows 11. Windows 11 has been the standard operating system for new devices since its release in 2021.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Microsoft Warns 240 Million Windows Users—Stop Using Your PC

Microsoft's support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, prompting the company to advise users with ineligible PCs—estimated to be as high as 240 million—to recycle their devices and upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft warns that unsupported devices will be vulnerable to data breaches and cyber threats without security updates. There has been an increase in upgrades to Windows 11 as the deadline approaches, but options for those unable to upgrade are limited. Microsoft encourages responsible recycling and offers trade-in programs, though these may not provide significant financial returns. Users can also consider paid extended support for an additional 12 months.

AppWizard

March 31, 2025

Minecraft-Themed 4DX Auditorium Opens in Antwerp, Belgium

Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of sustainability as a core component of their operational strategies. Organizations are adopting innovative approaches to reduce carbon footprints, including investing in renewable energy sources, scrutinizing supply chains for responsible sourcing, and implementing circular economy principles to minimize waste. The integration of sustainability into corporate culture enhances employee engagement and productivity. Investors are considering sustainability practices as key indicators of long-term viability, holding companies accountable for their environmental impact. Businesses embracing sustainability are positioning themselves as industry leaders and contributing to a more sustainable future.

AppWizard

March 30, 2025

SAG-AFTRA makes exception for student devs and game jams in 8-month videogame performance strike: ‘I’m thrilled that these types of projects can now be accommodated’

SAG-AFTRA has introduced new waivers, the Student Interactive Waiver Agreement and the Game Jam Waiver Agreement, allowing union actors to participate in student projects and game jams during its ongoing strike. The waivers aim to support both actors and emerging game developers while adhering to strike protocols. SAG-AFTRA has been on strike for eight months, primarily due to concerns over artificial intelligence and its impact on video game actors' careers. The strike has led to game studios recycling old voiceover clips, affecting new project developments.

Winsage

March 22, 2025

Microsoft is sending this ‘reminder email’ to Windows 10 users as ‘retirement deadline’ nears – The Times of India

Microsoft is notifying Windows 10 users that support will end on October 14, 2025, meaning no more free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes will be provided. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11, which is described as more secure, or to trade in or recycle their old devices. While Windows 10 PCs will continue to function, they will not receive support after the deadline. Many PCs made before 2018 may not meet the requirements for Windows 11 due to lacking the TPM 2.0 module, potentially leaving around 1 billion machines on Windows 10. As of February 2025, Windows 10 holds a 58% market share, while Windows 11 has 38%.

Winsage

March 19, 2025

Microsoft gets into the spam game by again emailing Windows 10 users to prod them to upgrade to Windows 11 – is the nagging going too far now?

Microsoft is emailing Windows 10 users to encourage them to upgrade to Windows 11 before support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. The email includes suggestions for trading in or recycling old PCs and a link to check eligibility for the Windows 11 upgrade. While Microsoft states that PCs will still function after support ends, it warns that software updates will cease, leaving systems vulnerable to security threats. Users can pay for extended support if they choose to remain on Windows 10. The email has received scrutiny for not adequately warning about the risks of using an unsupported operating system and for promoting other Microsoft products.

AppWizard

March 18, 2025

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 on PC is a bug-filled web of disappointment

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, released by Insomniac Games, features new elements like additional collectibles, skill trees, and two playable Spider-Men, but does not significantly innovate beyond its predecessor. The game has been criticized for its lifeless open world, repetitive side activities, and a dual protagonist mechanic that feels superficial. The PC version suffers from frequent crashes and performance issues, occurring approximately every 25 minutes, which detracts from the gaming experience. Despite its impressive visuals and refined core mechanics, the game is seen as lacking in narrative depth and engaging world design. It is available on Windows PC and PlayStation 5.

Winsage

March 14, 2025

Linux or Landfill? End of Windows 10 Leaves PC Charities with Tough Choice

Microsoft will cease free security updates for Windows 10 in October 2023, pushing users to upgrade to Windows 11. However, approximately 240 million PCs do not meet Windows 11's hardware requirements, which only support Intel 8th generation CPUs and AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer. Many older computers from 2017 and 2018 will remain on outdated versions of Windows, be repurposed with alternative operating systems, or end up as ewaste, with only 14 to 40 percent of ewaste in the U.S. being recycled. Charities like PCs for People are shifting to provide Linux laptops for older systems, as they discontinue distributing Windows 10 due to security concerns. Windows 10 still accounts for 58.7 percent of all Windows installations, and experts warn that continuing to use it after the update cutoff poses significant security risks.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

The Windows 95 setup was text-based for a good reason, Microsoft employee reveals

When installing Windows 95, users encountered a text-based environment rather than a graphical interface. The Windows development team integrated three distinct operating system environments to streamline the installation process. MS-DOS had limited graphical capabilities, requiring the setup team to potentially develop a graphics library from scratch. The minimum requirements for Windows 95 included a VGA video card, and the setup program needed to support ideogram-based languages and simple animations. The final setup utilized the Windows 3.1 runtime, which managed graphics under MS-DOS. This practice of code recycling continues in contemporary Windows versions, which require a "miniature" operating system known as the Windows Preinstallation Environment for setup and repair purposes.

Winsage

December 9, 2024

Computer owner shares frustration after seeing concerning message on Windows laptop: ‘I will not be buying a new one’

Microsoft will end free security updates for Windows 10 in October, prompting concerns among users about the need to purchase new devices, especially as the company promotes Windows 11. Users have expressed frustration over "programmed obsolescence," which forces consumers to buy new models more frequently. The financial impact of planned obsolescence can reach approximately ,000 over a consumer's lifetime, contributing to significant environmental issues, including the generation of over 68 million tons of e-waste in 2022, with only 22% recycled properly. Some users are considering alternatives like Linux to avoid the costs of new computers. Companies like Staples and Redwood Materials offer recycling programs for e-waste.