software release Archives

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

From 2026, Anonymous App Distribution on Android Devices Will No Longer Be Allowed

Google will implement a mandatory identity verification process for all Android app developers, including those using sideloading or third-party app stores, starting next year. This initiative aims to ensure that every app on certified Android devices is associated with a verifiable identity. A new Android Developer Console will be introduced for developers not using the Play Store, requiring personal details for verification, while assuring confidentiality. An early access program will launch in October 2025, with broader registration in March 2026 and enforcement beginning in September 2026 in select markets, followed by a global rollout in 2027. The initiative aims to reduce developer anonymity and mitigate the risk of malware, although it may be viewed as a hurdle by some independent developers.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

You Can No Longer Turn Off App Updates in Microsoft’s Store

The Microsoft Store has changed its app update policy, limiting users to delaying individual app updates for a maximum of five weeks, down from the previous option to pause updates indefinitely. Users can manage these settings in the App updates section of Settings, where they will receive notifications about the potential risks of missing critical updates. This change is part of a broader trend in Microsoft's update policies, which previously allowed indefinite pauses for operating system updates but now enforces a 35-day limit. The motivation behind these changes is primarily focused on enhancing security by encouraging timely installation of updates. The new policy applies only to apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store, and users seeking indefinite delays may need to consider alternative sources, albeit with the risk of missing important security updates.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft issues out-of-band patches for Windows 11 startup failure

Microsoft invests significant resources into patch testing prior to software release, but the complexity of modern software makes it nearly impossible to account for every potential scenario. Tyler Reguly, associate director of security R&D at Fortra, states that human intervention is required at large scales, and humans are fallible. The transparency of Root Cause Analysis (RCA) reports is limited, leaving stakeholders with only swift resolutions. When human error is identified, changes in processes or policies may be necessary, while edge cases can arise from various factors, especially in environments where hardware and virtualization intersect. Reguly notes the unpredictability of such systems and emphasizes the limitations of expecting comprehensive coverage in a complex technological landscape.

Winsage

March 20, 2025

Apple Might Be Having Its Windows Vista Moment, Says Analyst

Benedict Evans raised concerns about Apple's recent product launches, comparing the company's current trajectory to Microsoft's Windows Vista, which faced backlash for poor execution. He cited the Vision Pro headset as an example of a product that was prematurely launched and did not sell well, leading to confusion within the company. Evans also noted delays in the rollout of personalized Siri features, which he described as unusual for Apple, as the company typically showcases nearly complete products. He expressed concern that these delays indicate a trend of systemic issues in Apple's execution, questioning whether the company's innovative spirit is still present.

Winsage

March 14, 2025

Microsoft ‘Install Fails’—New Update Breaks Windows

Windows users are experiencing significant challenges with Microsoft's latest critical software release, "KB5053598," a mandatory update for Windows 11 24H2. Many users report "install fails," and some have encountered a Blue Screen of Death, causing their PCs to crash. The update, part of the March 2025 Patch Tuesday cycle, includes critical security fixes for zero-day vulnerabilities. Users have faced issues such as PCs failing to boot post-update and difficulties with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connections dropping unexpectedly. Testing revealed that the update often stalls at various percentages, with error messages indicating complications. Windows 10 users are being urged to upgrade before the October support deadline, with estimates suggesting around 800 million users have yet to transition, many lacking the necessary hardware. The reasons for the update issues remain unclear, and Microsoft has paused the update for certain problematic PCs. Currently, there are no known workarounds for the March 2025 Update issues, and users are advised to consider uninstalling the update.

Winsage

December 8, 2024

Microsoft releases final Windows Server 2025 preview build in 2024

Microsoft has released Windows Server 2025 build 26334 for Windows Insiders, marking the final update for the year, with the next expected in January 2024. This build includes Desktop Experience and Server Core installation options for Datacenter and Standard editions, as well as the Annual Channel for Container Host and Azure Edition for virtual machine evaluation. The branding remains Windows Server 2025 in this preview, and issues reported should reference Windows Server vNext preview. Users enrolled in Server Flighting will receive this build automatically. New features include Windows Defender Application Control for Business (WDAC), which enforces a list of permitted software to minimize the attack surface, and improved accessibility for Windows Admin Center (WAC), allowing installation directly from the Windows Server Desktop for Datacenter or Standard preview users. There are known issues, including a labeling error that may reference Windows 11, which Microsoft plans to fix in a future release. Windows Server build 26334 is valid until September 15, 2025, with specific installation keys provided for Server Standard and Datacenter editions, while no key is required for Azure Edition.

AppWizard

November 26, 2024

The Wear OS 5.1 preview is now available — and it’s based on Android 15

Google has released the first developer preview of Wear OS 5.1, based on Android 15, for testing in the Android Studio emulator. Key features include audio playback through smartwatch speakers and the new Credential Manager API. The build number for this preview is AP4A.241205.004.F1. Known issues include difficulties in adding accounts during setup, notifications not opening corresponding apps until the screen is scrolled, and potential failures in initiating exercise sessions with Wear Health Services. The audio feature allows users to listen to music or podcasts from the smartwatch's speaker, while the Credential Manager API supports password management and synchronization across devices.

Winsage

November 6, 2024

Windows Server 2025 is now available – but Microsoft warns admins to watch out for three major bugs, including one that causes the dreaded blue screen of death

Microsoft has released Windows Server 2025, succeeding Windows Server 2022, along with System Center 2025. This version supports seamless application deployment across on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments. Key security enhancements include improved Active Directory cryptographic support and defenses against various attacks on server message block (SMB). New features for cloud services include hotpatching, which requires an additional subscription fee, and integration with Azure Arc for better onboarding and network management. Windows Server 2025 is optimized for AI and machine learning workloads, offering up to 60% more storage IOPs performance than its predecessor. Certain features, such as WordPad and the Windows PowerShell 2.0 engine, have been discontinued. Microsoft has acknowledged three bugs related to installation: English text display issues, problems with high-core-count devices, and a "boot device inaccessible" error in iSCSI environments. Windows Server 2025 is available now, with extended support until 2034 and mainstream support until 2029. Users can upgrade from Windows Server 2012 R2 and Windows Server 2022 will be supported until October 2026. The operating system is compatible with most 64-bit processors, and a list of certified processors is provided.

Winsage

November 5, 2024

Microsoft releases Windows Server 2025

Microsoft has launched Windows Server 2025, which became generally available on November 1st. This version is classified as LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel), with mainstream support until October 2029 and extended support until October 2034. Key features include hot patching, an easily activated OpenSSH server, improved security for SMB shares, and enhancements to Hyper-V and Active Directory. Known issues include potential installation problems for systems with 256 logical cores and challenges in iSCSI environments. Windows Server 2025 is accessible through standard channels, with ISO images and VHD files available on the evaluation page.

Winsage

November 2, 2024

Microsoft: Windows Server 2025 now generally available alongside System Center 2025

Microsoft has launched Windows Server 2025, starting with build 26100.1742, as part of the long-term servicing channel (LTSC) release, which will have extended support until October 10, 2034, and mainstream support until October 9, 2029. Key features include advancements in security, hybrid cloud capabilities, improved I/O throughput performance, GPU virtualization enhancements, and a new update delivery method called checkpoint cumulatives. There are three known issues: an English language bug during installation, an issue with CPUs exceeding 256 threads, and a 'boot device inaccessible' error in iSCSI environments. A workaround for the high core count issue is to limit cores to 256 or fewer. A free 180-day trial is available for download, and System Center 2025 will also be released.