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Microsoft fixes bug behind Windows Server 2025 automatic upgrades
Winsage
April 15, 2026

Microsoft fixes bug behind Windows Server 2025 automatic upgrades

Microsoft has resolved an issue that caused unexpected upgrades from Windows Server 2019 and 2022 to Windows Server 2025. This problem was first reported in September 2024 when administrators found their servers upgraded without the necessary licenses. Initially, Microsoft attributed the issue to misconfigured third-party update management software, while developers claimed it was due to Microsoft's procedural errors regarding update release speed and classification. Microsoft confirmed the resolution of the issue and re-enabled the upgrade offer through the Windows Update settings. Additionally, Microsoft released an out-of-band update to address complications from a previous non-security preview update and deployed emergency updates to fix sign-in disruptions across various applications. Other updates were issued to resolve Bluetooth visibility issues and security vulnerabilities in the Routing and Remote Access Service management tool.
The engineer who built Windows Task Manager in the 90s says its 80KB footprint was a feature not an accident
Winsage
April 13, 2026

The engineer who built Windows Task Manager in the 90s says its 80KB footprint was a feature not an accident

David Plummer, a veteran Microsoft engineer, created the original Windows Task Manager (Taskmgr.exe) in the 1990s, which had a file size of only 80KB. This small size was crucial for its functionality during system freezes. Plummer used a mutex to check if another instance of the program was running, allowing for efficient operation without complex process lists or loops. His recent reflections in early 2026 have sparked discussions about the evolution of software, particularly criticizing Windows 11 for straying from its foundational purpose and emphasizing resource efficiency. The 1990s hardware constraints forced developers to innovate, contrasting with today's environment where abundant resources allow for less efficient applications. Plummer's mutex technique is now seen as a benchmark in application design, highlighting a generational shift in development practices. The discourse around his 80KB Task Manager raises questions about the future of software procurement and the importance of memory footprint in purchasing decisions.
Android 17 leak hints at major Quick Settings revamp you'll actually use
AppWizard
January 15, 2026

Android 17 leak hints at major Quick Settings revamp you’ll actually use

Android 17 is set to revamp Quick Settings by introducing a new split layout option for regular Pixel phones, while making it mandatory for larger devices like tablets and foldables. The update will separate Wi-Fi and mobile data toggles, reversing the combined Internet toggle from Android 12. Users may experience a more organized interface that separates notifications from system controls, with a streamlined interaction designed for improved usability.
Smart new features for Android smartphones just arrived in Windows 11 – including remotely locking your PC via the phone
AppWizard
December 18, 2025

Smart new features for Android smartphones just arrived in Windows 11 – including remotely locking your PC via the phone

Microsoft is updating the Link to Windows app for Windows 11, which began rolling out in the second week of December. The new features include the ability for Android users to remotely lock their Windows 11 PC, share clipboard content between devices, one-touch screen mirroring, and access to a dedicated side panel from the Start menu. Users should update their Link to Windows app to the latest version to access these features, which can be done through the Settings panel on their Android device by navigating to Advanced features, tapping on Link to Windows, selecting the ellipsis in the upper-right corner, and tapping About Link to Windows to check for updates.
Android is preparing a hub for all your satellite-connected apps
AppWizard
December 17, 2025

Android is preparing a hub for all your satellite-connected apps

Google is enhancing Android's satellite connectivity capabilities, which will allow users to stay connected in areas without cellular service. A new Quick Settings tile and menu will streamline access to these features. Initially, satellite connectivity was limited to emergency messaging, but upcoming updates will include functionalities like WhatsApp calling and live location sharing. In the latest Android Canary build, a toggle for a “Satellite” tile is available under Settings > System > Developer Options, indicating three states: On, Available, and Not available. The Pixel 9 supports satellite connectivity, but the tile is marked as “Not available” due to the user's T-Mobile plan lacking satellite access. Tapping the tile leads to a “Satellite connectivity” page listing compatible apps, including Emergency SOS, Messages, Find Hub, Maps, and Settings. WhatsApp is not currently listed, despite prior announcements of its support for satellite calls. The app list varies based on device and plan support for LTE-based or Narrowband NTN. If LTE-based NTN is supported, the app list could expand to include AccuWeather, Google Weather, Snapchat, and X, suggesting future satellite support for these applications. The Satellite tile and landing page are operational in the Canary release but are currently accessible only through a developer option, indicating they may still be in testing. Future Android Canary releases will provide updates on this feature's development.
Nothing OS 4.0 Brings a Wild Android 16 Makeover
AppWizard
September 18, 2025

Nothing OS 4.0 Brings a Wild Android 16 Makeover

Nothing has released the Android 16 update, branded as Nothing OS 4.0, which will begin rolling out as a beta for select smartphone models. The update features a more minimalistic UI with a streamlined interface, enhanced dark mode, improved multitasking capabilities, a revamped camera application, and a new AI usage dashboard for tracking statistics. All current devices, except the Nothing Phone (1), are expected to receive the update, with the Phone (3) anticipated to be among the first. Specific distribution start dates for eligible models have not been announced.
Windows 11 is getting a system tray shortcut to run a network speed test
Winsage
September 16, 2025

Windows 11 is getting a system tray shortcut to run a network speed test

Microsoft is testing a new feature in the Windows 11 system tray that allows users to conduct a network speed test easily. This feature can be accessed through the Wi-Fi icon by right-clicking to reveal a "Perform Speed Test" option, and there is also a "Test internet speed" button in the quick settings panel. When selected, these options direct users to Bing in their web browser to initiate the speed test. Currently, this feature is available to testers in the Canary, Dev, and Beta channels of the Windows Insider Program. There is a desire for a more integrated application for speed tests that does not require opening a browser.
Windows 11 will soon let you run a network speed test directly from the Taskbar — no third-party tools required
Winsage
September 14, 2025

Windows 11 will soon let you run a network speed test directly from the Taskbar — no third-party tools required

Microsoft is developing a feature for Windows 11 that allows users to conduct network speed tests directly from the Taskbar's system tray. This feature can be accessed by right-clicking the network icon or through a button in the Wi-Fi quick settings panel, launching Bing's integrated network speed test tool. It aims to simplify network diagnostics and verify internet speeds without relying on third-party applications. Additionally, Microsoft is working on other features for Windows 11, including a revamped Start menu, improved voice input, enhancements to mobile device settings, and a new handheld gaming mode. These features are currently in testing and are not linked to the upcoming Windows 11 version 25H2, which will maintain the same feature set as version 24H2.
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