restarting Archives

Winsage

May 14, 2026

‘Avoid Disruption’—Microsoft Updates Windows Before June Deadline

Microsoft has released a security update for Windows 10 users, identified as KB5087544, which includes dynamic status reporting for Secure Boot states. Secure Boot certificates, in place for 15 years, are set to expire next month, and Microsoft advises users to update their certificates to avoid security risks. All Windows 10 PCs will require new certificates, but only those in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will be eligible for the update. Most Windows 11 devices will also need new certificates, except those purchased in the last two years. Failure to install the new certificates may affect device boot security. The update also addresses a security warning related to Remote Desktop Connection and may prompt some users to enter a BitLocker recovery key after restarting. New certificates will only be issued to devices that show successful update signals, and users should upgrade their Windows Security App to address potential issues. Notifications will be sent once new Secure Boot certificates are installed.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Windows 11 Emoji Picker Search Box Disappears in Some Builds, Restarting Explorer Restores It

A glitch in Windows 11 has caused the search box in the emoji picker to disappear, affecting users' ability to search for emojis by name. This issue has been reported by multiple users and confirmed by Windows Central in the Insider Beta channel, but Microsoft has not acknowledged it or provided a fix. A temporary solution involves restarting Windows Explorer through Task Manager, which can restore the search box functionality. The bug's prevalence varies among users, and it is unclear if it affects stable releases of Windows 11.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Pause Point on Android 17 will make sure you don’t waste time endlessly scrolling through apps

Google's Android 17 introduces a feature called Pause Point, which helps users avoid mindless scrolling through distracting apps. When users open a potentially distracting app, they have a 10-second window to reconsider their choice, during which they can engage in calming exercises or set reminders to exit the app. If users try to disable Pause Point, their device will require a restart, encouraging mindfulness. This feature aims to reduce time spent on social media by creating a barrier to impulsive app usage.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Brawl RNG codes May 2026

Players are encouraged to take note of the latest Brawl RNG codes to maintain a competitive edge in the game. Brawl RNG is described as "a fast, clean idle clicker" featuring RNG drops, upgrades, rebirths, and battle simulations. The latest Brawl RNG code is "NovaWeekend!!," which provides a Golden Dice. To redeem Brawl RNG codes, players must launch the game, click the 'Settings' icon, input a valid code, and press the 'Redeem' button. If players experience issues with the settings screen closing unexpectedly, maximizing the Roblox app or restarting the game may help. New codes are typically announced on the Brawl RNG Discord page during significant updates, and players can find permanent codes in the 'codes' channel and limited-time codes in the 'announcements' channel. Expired codes include KGems.FOR.BRAWLPASS, PinPackILikeChillyTea, N.O.V.A.D.R.O.P, Demonic?, Angelic?, and DEMONVSANGEL!!.

AppWizard

May 8, 2026

Codex users have been begging OpenAI for this upgrade — and it’s finally in the works

OpenAI's Codex users have expressed a strong desire for enhanced functionality, particularly remote session control via ChatGPT on mobile devices, which is currently absent. Developers have voiced their frustrations on platforms like GitHub and Reddit, noting that competitors like Anthropic's Claude offer seamless remote access. Recent updates in version 1.2026.125 of the ChatGPT Android app suggest that the remote control feature for Codex is in development, with code indicating users will soon be able to access Codex on their desktops remotely, reconnect to sessions from mobile devices, and receive prompts for updates or restarts. The code also hints at functionalities like creating launcher shortcuts for Codex. While a fully operational preview is not yet available, early indications show that the integration of remote control for Codex is imminent. However, it is noted that an APK teardown provides insights into potential features, but there is no guarantee they will be included in a public release.

Winsage

May 6, 2026

Microsoft’s new Windows Update approach could make restarts less annoying

Microsoft is transforming its Windows Update system to reduce user frustration and enhance the experience. The company aims to minimize disruption from updates, promoting a more predictable update rhythm and greater user autonomy. Key changes include a unified monthly restart cycle to avoid multiple restarts, simplified management of updates allowing users to start, stop, or pause updates easily, and the ability to restart or shut down devices without immediate installation of updates. New PCs will allow users to pause updates during the initial setup. However, updates can only be paused for a maximum of 35 days to ensure security and system stability. Additionally, users will receive alerts regarding critical updates, including warnings about the retirement of older Secure Boot certificates.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Fitbit’s Public Preview app is missing data for some users

The Fitbit app is experiencing issues for some users, particularly with the new timeline-style Today tab, which is largely blank and only shows minimal information. The updated Public Preview version of the app is malfunctioning, failing to provide the expected insights and AI-generated text summaries, which is problematic for users transitioning their legacy accounts to Google. The app relies on AI technology, specifically Gemini, for generating personalized guidance, but without these features, the interface appears empty. While some users have not faced these issues, others are concerned about potential data loss during the transition to Google accounts. A Fitbit moderator noted that some data may have been moved to the Fitness tab, and restarting the tracker and app may help resolve perceived data loss.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Windows 11 restarts several times after a recent update? Don’t panic

After the installation of the optional April 2026 update, users may experience multiple restarts of their PCs, which is normal due to the Secure Boot certificate refresh process. This behavior may also occur with future updates as Microsoft implements Secure Boot certificate refreshes. Windows updates typically require a single reboot, but significant feature updates or firmware and driver updates may necessitate two or three reboots. Many Windows devices manufactured before 2024 have outdated Secure Boot certificates that need updating, as these certificates will expire in June 2026. Microsoft began rolling out updated Secure Boot certificates in March, but this rollout is staggered. Users can check their PC's Secure Boot certificate status in Windows Security under "Device security." The status is indicated by colored icons: green (up to date), yellow (update pending), and red (action required). Older devices may face issues with the certificate refresh if they lack up-to-date firmware or compatible BIOS updates. If Windows reports an error, the device manufacturer is typically responsible for resolving it. Users should verify that Secure Boot certificates were installed correctly after updates to ensure continued secure booting beyond June.

Winsage

April 29, 2026

Microsoft is changing the rules of the game: updates are no longer forced in Windows 11

Windows 11 has introduced a new update management model that allows users to pause updates indefinitely, transforming the previous 35-day limit into a flexible option. This change addresses user frustrations regarding unexpected reboots and system instability caused by updates. Users can now choose to restart or shut down their systems without automatic updates being installed. This adjustment aligns with Microsoft's strategy to enhance user autonomy, although the company warns that neglecting updates can increase security vulnerabilities. The new features are currently available in test builds, with a wider rollout expected soon.

AppWizard

April 29, 2026

New Android spyware Morpheus linked to Italian surveillance firm

Morpheus is a new spyware identified by the nonprofit organization Osservatorio Nessuno, which spreads through counterfeit Android applications that appear as legitimate updates. Attackers use SMS messages to direct victims to a fraudulent website mimicking an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The spyware installs a dropper app that deploys a concealed payload, which disguises itself as legitimate system components and manipulates users into granting dangerous permissions, including Accessibility access. Once granted, Morpheus initiates a Permission Workflow that creates a fake update overlay, disabling the touchscreen to prevent user interaction. It ensures persistence by restarting after device reboots and can request device administrator privileges. The spyware exploits overlay windows and Accessibility features to gain control of the device and bypass security measures, including disabling antivirus solutions without requiring root access. Analysis suggests Morpheus has Italian origins, with connections to an Italian firm, IPS Intelligence, known for lawful interception technologies. The spyware is capable of invasive actions such as recording audio and video, linking to WhatsApp, and compromising device security. The report highlights a network of dubious companies and shared contacts linked to the spyware's distribution.