redesigned interface Archives

Winsage

April 5, 2025

Microsoft bundle deal: MS Office and Windows 11 for $54.97

A bundle is available for enhancing existing PCs, including Microsoft Office Professional 2021 and an upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, priced at .97, reduced from the regular price of 8. The Office 2021 suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Windows 11 Pro features a redesigned interface, productivity tools like Snap layouts, multiple virtual desktops, improved voice typing, enhanced search functionalities, and the AI-powered Copilot virtual assistant. Advanced features include Azure AD, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and BitLocker device encryption. Compatibility with current hardware is required, and the offer is not applicable for systems unable to access Windows Update for Windows 11. Prices on StackSocial may change.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft is streamlining logins for Windows, Xbox, and M365

Microsoft is transforming its Microsoft Account (MSA) sign-in experience to create a modern interface across web and mobile platforms, with plans for Windows to follow. By the end of April, users will see a revamped login and registration process with a streamlined flow and fewer elements per screen. The update will optimize passwordless sign-ins through the introduction of passkeys, which will become the default method for future logins. If a passkey is not used, email-based logins will be the fallback option. The redesigned interface will feature consistent Microsoft branding, with a unified background image and color-themed buttons and links for different services. The rollout of this new experience is expected to be completed by the end of April.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Keeper Security Enhances WearOS App and Android Offline Mode

Keeper Security has enhanced its Keeper WearOS app, previously known as KeeperDNA, to improve security and user experience for smartwatch users. The app now aligns with Google's Android guidelines, featuring a modern interface that allows users to securely view stored credentials and utilize Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) more easily. Key features include Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) code viewing, Watch Favorites for quick access to frequently used logins, and improved offline functionality that allows users to access Keeper data without an internet connection. The account setup process has been simplified, and users can manage offline access and 2FA settings separately. The updated app is available on the Google Play Store and supports zero-knowledge encryption. Future updates are planned to include passkey support and standalone functionality for managing security directly from wearable devices.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

Keeper Security Unveils Latest WearOS App for Seamless Password Management

Keeper Security has launched an updated version of its WearOS app for Android, enhancing security and user experience for smartwatch users. The app, formerly known as KeeperDNA, features a redesigned interface, instant access to credentials and 2FA codes, and a "Watch Favorites" option for quick access to frequently used logins. Improvements to offline functionality include a simplified account setup, enhanced offline mode with configurable vault access durations, and decoupled offline mode and 2FA settings. The updated app is available for download on the Google Play Store and maintains zero-knowledge encryption for user data security.

Winsage

November 2, 2024

You can now try Microsoft’s more modern Windows Hello UI

Microsoft is enhancing its Windows Hello authentication system, currently in beta testing with Windows Insiders. The redesign includes a new visual aesthetic, updated iconography, and improvements to the passkey experience. The updated interface will be integrated into the Windows 11 login screen and the sign-in process for websites and applications using passkeys. Microsoft is also developing a new API for third-party password and passkey managers to improve integration. The new Windows Hello experience is being tested in the beta channel (23H2) and will also appear in the dev channel (24H2), with plans for a broader rollout to all Windows 11 users in the coming months.

Winsage

October 23, 2024

KB5045594: Windows 10 version 22H2 non-security release preview update is available

Microsoft has released a non-security update for Windows 10, version 22H2 (KB5045594), with build number 19045.5073. This update features a new account manager on the Start menu, various bug fixes, and improvements. Key fixes include resolving printing issues with Multi-Function Printers, correcting a stop error related to vmswitch, fixing a race condition during upgrades to Windows 11, adding new product activation phone numbers, updating mobile operator profiles, addressing input detection issues with WebView2 apps, and resolving a black screen issue in Azure Virtual Desktop. The servicing stack update (KB5046823) enhances the installation process for Windows updates, and no known issues have been reported with this update.

Winsage

October 14, 2024

Countdown begins to end of Windows 10: PC users have three lifelines, and just 365 days to make a decision

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting 62.7% of the 1.6 billion Windows-based PCs globally. Users with compatible devices can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, but Windows 11 has minimum requirements including a 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot. Microsoft advises users to buy new PCs if their current devices do not meet these requirements. An optional Extended Security Updates (ESUs) subscription plan will be available for Windows 10 users, with pricing for businesses starting at £48.19 for the first year. Continuing to use Windows 10 after the end of support poses risks of increased vulnerability to viruses and malware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface, enhanced Snap functionality, and an AI assistant named Copilot.

AppWizard

October 10, 2024

Google’s Pixel Buds app now falls in line with the rest of Android

Google has rolled out an update for the Pixel Buds app that aligns with Android's Material You design, featuring themed icons. The update is part of an effort to enhance visual harmony with Android devices. Additionally, Google is reintroducing the "Noise Control" panel in Android 15, which will allow users to quickly switch between active noise cancellation and transparency modes on devices like the Pixel Buds Pro 2. The new panel is expected to include a floating menu that integrates with the Pixel Buds app, and early findings suggest that users may need to select the "Spatial Audio" option to access the Noise Control interface. The information is derived from the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2, with a potential release rumored for October.

BetaBeacon

September 27, 2024

Fans rejoice as brutal hack’n slash platformer Blasphemous is finally coming to iOS and Android

Blasphemous, a popular game, is coming to iOS and Android with all DLCs included and optimized touch controls.