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Winsage

July 2, 2025

Microsoft fixes ‘Print to PDF’ feature broken by Windows update

Microsoft has resolved an issue with the 'Print to PDF' feature on Windows 11 24H2 systems that arose after the April 2025 preview update, where the Microsoft Print to PDF printer was not visible in the Settings menu. Enabling the Printing-PrintToPDFServices-Feature led to error code 0x800f0922, preventing the installation of the printer driver. The fix was included in the KB5060829 preview cumulative update released on Friday and will be available to all users with the July Patch Tuesday updates. Users can also manually enable the feature through the Windows Features dialog or PowerShell, although using PowerShell may still result in the 0x800f0922 error. This fix follows previous updates addressing other printing issues and potential delays in June 2025 Windows security updates.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

How to secure your printer with Windows 11’s new Protected Print mode

Nine percent of Windows security issues are attributed to its printing system. In 2021, a flaw in the printer spooler, known as "Print Nightmare," was discovered, allowing attackers elevated system rights. Microsoft introduced Windows Protected Print mode (WPP) in the Windows 11 24H2 update to address these vulnerabilities. WPP replaces manufacturer-specific drivers and prevents the installation of new printer drivers, limiting printer spooler tasks to user rights. WPP is based on the Internet Print Protocol (IPP) and is compatible with printers certified by the Mobile Printing Alliance. Users must manually enable WPP through the Settings menu. Once activated, Windows manages print jobs using its WPP driver, and users can find additional tools in the Microsoft Store. To deactivate WPP, users can return to the Settings and remove it, which requires reinstalling the original manufacturer’s drivers.

Tech Optimizer

July 2, 2025

These 5 macOS settings are a security risk and you should turn them off now

Apple emphasizes robust security measures for its users, particularly for Mac users who often believe built-in protections eliminate the need for additional antivirus software. Users can enhance their macOS security by adjusting default settings in five key areas: 1. Location Sharing: Users should manage app access to location data through System Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services, disabling it entirely or adjusting settings for individual applications. 2. Microphone and Camera Permissions: Users are advised to review and manage app permissions for microphone and camera access in System Settings > Privacy & Security, allowing them to toggle permissions off if necessary. 3. Siri: Users concerned about privacy may choose to disable Siri by going to System Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri and toggling off the feature. 4. Automatic Wi-Fi Connections: To protect sensitive information, users should disable automatic connections to public Wi-Fi networks by modifying settings in System Settings > Wi-Fi and enabling the option to ask before joining networks. 5. Personalized Ads: Users can opt out of personalized ads by navigating to System Preferences > Security & Privacy and unchecking the box for Personalized Ads to mitigate risks associated with ad tracking.

AppWizard

June 30, 2025

Android users getting a Gmail upgrade so useful we wonder why it’s never happened before

Google is exploring a new feature for Gmail on Android that allows users to "mark as read" directly from notifications. This feature is currently being rolled out to a select group of users and is not universally available. Traditionally, Gmail notifications offered options to "delete" or "reply" to emails. Users can also mark emails as read using swipe gestures within the app, which can be customized in the Settings menu. Default swipe actions include Archive, Delete, Mark as read/unread, Move to, Snooze, and None.

Winsage

June 30, 2025

Don’t want to switch to Windows 11? There is one last way to stick with Windows 10 a little longer

Microsoft has updated its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing users to receive an additional year of updates for Windows 10 at no cost, provided they activate Windows Backup. Previously, this option required a fee. Users can also earn Microsoft Rewards points through various activities, including purchases in the Microsoft Store or Xbox app. Additionally, some users are transitioning to Linux as an alternative to Windows 11, while others may consider switching to a Mac.

AppWizard

June 26, 2025

Gemini blazes past the old Assistant with this useful setting change

Google's Gemini Team announced an upcoming enhancement to the AI's integration with applications on Android devices, set to roll out on July 7. Gemini will soon be able to access connected Extensions (apps) to assist with user queries without requiring App Activity to be enabled. Users will maintain control over which apps and data Gemini can access, and they can disconnect Gemini from specific apps at any time through the Settings menu. The update aims to improve the user experience by allowing Gemini to help with tasks like sending messages and setting timers even when App Activity is turned off. Additionally, earlier this year, Google introduced a significant upgrade to the Gemini app, including a personalization test and a 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model for a more customized experience.

AppWizard

June 25, 2025

It’s been so long since I played a 30 fps console game, it took me a week to realize Death Stranding 2 was literally giving me headaches

The author experienced persistent headaches after playing Death Stranding 2, initially attributing them to various factors like dehydration and hunger. The headaches intensified after playing the game at its default 30 frames per second setting, which contrasted with the author's usual gaming experience on PC at 60 fps. After discovering the performance mode that locks the framerate at 60 fps, the author switched to it and noticed an immediate improvement in gameplay responsiveness and a reduction in headaches. The author reflects on how accustomed they have become to higher frame rates, noting that the camera movement at 30 fps contributed to feelings of queasiness. After adjusting to the performance mode, the author was headache-free after over 20 hours of gameplay. The author appreciates that Death Stranding 2 offers a performance mode and anticipates that the eventual PC port will provide an even better experience.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Windows 10 users can get extended security updates for 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and is offering a one-year subscription to Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for a fee. Users can also redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for an ESU. The ESU will provide essential bug fixes, security updates, and technical support until October 13, 2026. Microsoft will continue to deliver security updates for MS 365 applications and Windows Defender until October 2028. Enrollment in the ESU program can be done through notifications and the Windows Settings menu, with a rollout to the general public starting in July and reaching widespread availability by mid-August. Windows 11, released in 2021, has received positive feedback and aims to address user concerns regarding usability and aesthetics.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Stay secure with Windows 11, Copilot+ PCs and Windows 365 before support ends for Windows 10

Windows has been the most widely used operating system globally since its launch in 1985, currently powering over a billion active devices each month. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, meaning Microsoft will stop providing security and feature updates, as well as technical support for Windows 10 PCs. Users can check their eligibility for upgrading to Windows 11 through the Settings menu or the PC Health Check app. Windows 11 features enhanced security, improved performance, and a modern user interface, with built-in accessibility tools and AI capabilities. The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will provide critical security updates for personal devices from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. Organizations can subscribe to ESU for continued security updates for a year, with the option to renew annually. Windows 365 offers a cloud-based solution for transitioning to Windows 11 without needing to replace all devices immediately. Various Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are available from partners like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, and Surface.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Microsoft unveils big Windows Recall update — now showcases your most used apps and websites

Microsoft has released a new preview build of Windows 11, featuring an updated version of the Windows Recall app. The app now includes a redesigned home page that showcases recent snapshots and highlights snapshots from the user's three most frequently used apps and websites, based on the past 24 hours. The new interface aims to enhance user experience by making it easier to navigate previous tasks. Currently, the app is being tested among Insiders in the Windows 11 Beta and Dev Channels, with a wider rollout expected soon. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing features for Copilot+ PCs that require a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) of 40+ tops, including an AI model named Mu, which will allow users to search for or describe settings using natural language.