snapshots Archives

Tech Optimizer

August 12, 2025

How Wiz achieved near-zero downtime for Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL major version upgrades at scale using Aurora Blue/Green Deployments

Wiz upgraded its Aurora PostgreSQL database from version 14 to 16, achieving a significant reduction in downtime from approximately one hour to just 30 seconds. The upgrade was facilitated by an automated process called DB Upgrade Pilot, which utilized Amazon Aurora's Blue/Green Deployments. This process involved several steps: taking a cluster snapshot, provisioning a synchronized replica of the production database, executing a VACUUM ANALYZE for performance optimization, monitoring replication lag, and performing a switchover to the new environment. The upgrade included performance enhancements such as improved parallel query execution and faster aggregations, along with enhanced security features. The solution also incorporated safety measures like automatic rollback capability and robust validation steps to ensure a stable upgrade process.

Winsage

August 2, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows Recall is reportedly still capturing passwords and Social Security numbers even after its relaunch

The Microsoft Windows Recall AI app, designed to take screenshots of user activities, has faced security concerns regarding its ability to protect sensitive information. Initially launched in summer 2024 with Copilot+ PCs, it was retracted due to issues capturing sensitive data but returned to Windows Insiders in April 2025. Testing by The Register revealed that while the app's "Filter sensitive information" feature blocked some financial data, it still captured sensitive information like bank balances and failed to recognize variations in phrasing. Users can block specific applications or websites from being captured, but this may limit the app's utility. Recall is intended for laptops with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, and opting for devices with Intel or AMD chips can help mitigate security risks. Microsoft is reportedly working on improving the app's security features, but its future remains uncertain.

Winsage

July 28, 2025

AdGuard joins the Windows Recall backlash party — “Leaving backdoors wide open and hoping Microsoft will always act in good faith isn’t a solid privacy strategy”

Windows Recall is a feature from Microsoft that has faced criticism for being a potential security hazard and a public relations misstep. It was introduced with the 24H2 release, which included advanced AI functionalities. The feature relies on a neural processing unit (NPU) that operates independently of the cloud to emphasize privacy and security. In April 2025, Windows Recall became widely available for Copilot+ PCs, with security measures like isolating it within a "VBS Enclave" to protect sensitive data. However, skepticism remains, leading platforms like Signal and Brave to implement their own protective measures against Windows Recall. Signal has introduced a feature to prevent Windows Recall from capturing snapshots of its app, while Brave blocks Windows Recall by default for all its browser windows. AdGuard has also released an update to enhance user privacy by allowing users to disable Windows Recall on Copilot+ PCs, expressing doubts about the effectiveness of Microsoft's security measures.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Update for Windows 11 brings more resilience (and Recall)

The optional update KB5062660 for Windows 11 version 24H2 introduces several new features, including Microsoft Recall in Europe, which allows users to export snapshots of their activities with a unique export code for privacy. The Click to Do functionality expands with a new Practice in Reading Coach feature and integration with Microsoft Teams for drafting messages. An AI agent is added to the settings app for Copilot+ PCs, while non-Copilot+ systems have a centered search bar for accessibility. The update includes rapid machine recovery options, enhancements to the Start menu, improved snap functionality, and a new Gamepad keyboard layout for gamers. It also resolves various issues from previous versions, including bugs in File Explorer and system stability problems. AI components related to Image Search, Content Extraction, and Semantic Analysis have been enhanced, and there are no known issues with this update. Features will be rolled out gradually to users.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Windows 11 KB5062660 24H2 out with features, direct download links for offline installer (.msu)

Windows 11 KB5062660 is an optional update for Windows 11 24H2, introducing features like Recall AI for users in Europe. The update is approximately one gigabyte in size and upgrades the operating system to Windows 11 Build 26100.4770. Users can access it through Windows Update or direct download links from the Microsoft Update Catalog. Recall AI allows users to save screen snapshots but raises privacy concerns, which can be managed through settings. The update also includes Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) for efficient system recovery, improvements in system stability, and various enhancements such as inline messages in the Snap bar, streamlined Windows Search settings, enhanced controller navigation, and fixes for issues in the Settings app and File Explorer.

Winsage

July 23, 2025

Windows 11 KB5062660 update brings new ‘Windows Resilience’ features

Microsoft has released the KB5062660 preview cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2, introducing twenty-nine new features and changes, including the Black Screen of Death and the Quick Machine Recovery tool. This optional update is part of Microsoft's non-security preview updates, allowing users to test upcoming features before the next Patch Tuesday. Users can install the update via Settings > Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update elevates Windows 11 24H2 systems to build 26100.4770. Key features include: - Recall functionality in the EEA for exporting snapshots. - Improvements in Reading Coach and Immersive Reader. - Draft creation in Word with Copilot. - New agent in Settings for easier navigation. - Quick Machine Recovery for automatic issue resolution. - Boolean option in Start menu configuration. - Enhanced Snap and Windows Search settings. - Gamepad layout improvements in the touch keyboard. - Various fixes for File Explorer, desktop icons, and notifications. The KB5058502 update also addresses issues related to authentication and system stability, with no known issues reported for KB5062660.

AppWizard

July 16, 2025

Update 2.3 Patch Notes

Update 2.3 for Cyberpunk 2077 will be released tomorrow for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with a later release for Nintendo Switch 2. The update introduces four new vehicles, the AutoDrive feature for self-driving Delamain cabs, and enhancements to CrystalCoat™ and Photo Mode. It also adds support for AMD FSR 3.1 Frame Generation, Intel XeSS 2.0, and HDR10+ Gaming on PC. Cyberpunk 2077 is now available on Mac with Apple silicon, purchasable via the Mac App Store and other PC storefronts, with existing owners able to transition to compatible devices. The new vehicles include: - Yaiba ARV-Q340 Semimaru, unlocked through a new side job after completing The Hunt and The Beast In Me. - Rayfield Caliburn "Mordred," obtainable by completing side jobs including The Beast in Me: Badlands. - Yaiba ASM-R250 Muramasa, available after purchasing a Yaiba vehicle and completing specific tasks. - Chevillon Legatus 450 Aquila, purchasable through AUTOFIXER. AutoDrive allows players to relax while their vehicles navigate, with self-driving Delamain cabs available after completing the job Don't Lose Your Mind. Photo Mode enhancements include 27 new NPCs, outfit switching options, new Look-At Camera features, and additional stickers and frames. Quality of life improvements include automatic adjustments for inverted mouse settings and enhanced accessibility options for aiming controls. Gameplay fixes address various mission issues and improve overall performance. PC users will see enhanced graphics with AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 4 and Intel XeSS 2.0, while console players benefit from Variable Refresh Rate support and fixes for foliage interactions with weather conditions.

Winsage

July 16, 2025

Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant can now optionally see your entire desktop—maybe it will be able to finally explain what Windows error code 0x8007002c means

Microsoft's Copilot Vision AI assistant now allows users to opt-in to share their entire desktop within Windows 11, currently available only in preview builds and not rolled out through Windows Update. This feature enables users to share their desktop, specific browser windows, or app interfaces with Copilot, which can then observe and engage in real-time conversations, providing analysis and guidance. The feature is part of Windows 11 build 1.25071.125 and is limited to users in the U.S. where Windows Vision is enabled. It is primarily targeted at Windows enthusiasts and developers in the Windows Insider program.

Winsage

July 16, 2025

Now Microsoft’s Copilot Vision AI can scan everything on your screen

Microsoft's Copilot Vision tool has been updated to allow users to view their entire desktop, enhancing its previous capability of analyzing only two applications at once. Users can activate this feature by clicking the glasses icon in the Copilot app to select their desktop view. Copilot Vision provides real-time assistance by analyzing content, offering insights, and answering questions. It was initially tested for web browsing in Microsoft Edge and can now also respond to queries based on observations made through a mobile phone's camera.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

Minecraft’s mob vote loser just made a surprise comeback — and it brought brand new gear to the Bedrock Preview with it

Mojang has reintroduced the Copper Golem, a character that lost the 2021 Mob Vote, as part of the latest Bedrock Preview update. Players can summon the Copper Golem by placing a carved pumpkin on a copper block, which also introduces the Copper Chest. The Copper Golem retrieves items from nearby Copper Chests and deposits them into standard chests. It can carry a maximum of 16 identical items and has a range of 15 blocks. The Copper Golem does not deposit into barrels, shulker boxes, hoppers, or dispensers, and unstackable enchanted gear can only be deposited if the enchantments match. Mojang has also introduced a complete set of copper tools and armor, including items like the Copper Axe, Hoe, Pickaxe, Shovel, Sword, Helmet, Chestplate, Leggings, and Boots. Copper gear has the same damage values as stone but offers higher durability and better enchantability. Copper tools cannot mine redstone, gold, emeralds, or diamond ore, but they are more durable and faster than stone tools. Copper gear does not undergo oxidation, unlike copper blocks and golems. The preview is available for testing on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10/11, and other compatible Bedrock platforms without needing to opt in via the Xbox Insider Hub. Players need a copy of Minecraft: Bedrock Edition to participate. Mojang's content rollout strategy now introduces features through Bedrock Previews before announcing them alongside Java updates, with Java snapshots expected to follow in a few weeks and a full release potentially in the next three to five months.