store Archives

Winsage

July 14, 2026

Improving Windows Search Box, with less clutter and more control

Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel are beginning to receive phased enhancements to the Windows Search Box. Key improvements include a streamlined home screen to reduce visual clutter, clearer context for search results indicating their source (app, setting, file, web result, or Store suggestion), and the removal of promotional content from web results. Users can control the display of web and Microsoft Store results through a new setting. Local results are prioritized when relevant, and the search function has improved its handling of typos and partial words. Ranking enhancements for settings results and better file search capabilities have been implemented, along with increased reliability and reduced crashes. Feedback is encouraged through the Feedback Hub.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Steam Machine compatibility checks are here, though not every game on the store enjoys a rating

Steam users can now check a game's compatibility with Steam Machine and SteamOS directly from the store page. This feature was introduced after the Steam Machine's June release. Players can click 'learn more' next to the Steam Deck compatibility rating for an overview of compatibility across Valve's hardware and software. The game Black Myth: Wukong has an 'unknown' compatibility status with the Steam Machine, while it runs successfully on SteamOS. Valve is investigating compatibility for titles like Dragon’s Dogma 2 and Elden Ring Nightreign. Some games, like 007: First Light, can achieve a 'Verified' rating on the Steam Machine. Currently, the Steam store does not allow filtering by Steam Machine or SteamOS compatibility, but this feature is expected soon.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Windows questions? How Copilot can analyze your PC settings now

Microsoft has introduced a new feature called PC Insights within its Copilot AI, aimed at simplifying troubleshooting within the Windows operating system. This feature allows users to ask questions about their system, such as battery health, BIOS version, CPU usage, network adapters, storage availability, and printer status. Users must download and install the Copilot Windows app to utilize PC Insights. Upon asking a question, Copilot requests permission to access system resources, which can be granted for a single request or for future similar requests. The AI retrieves the necessary data without storing or using personal files for training, and permissions can be revoked through the app's privacy settings. While PC Insights can provide information and clarify technical details, it cannot autonomously fix issues or implement system changes, requiring users to resolve identified problems themselves.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Pixel phones are getting a handy upgrade for ringtone, alarm, and notification controls

Google is enhancing the user experience on Pixel phones by integrating volume sliders into the ringtone, alarm, and notification selection screens within the Sounds app. This feature allows users to adjust volume directly while selecting sounds. The functionality was discovered in an unreleased Pixel 11 firmware build. Additionally, there are indications of a potential new "Vibrations" tab that may include various vibration patterns, although it is currently non-functional. Previous discoveries suggested Google aims to let users customize sound and vibration patterns independently.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Windows Insiders Can Test a Decluttered Windows Search Experience

Windows Insiders in the Experimental Channel can explore enhancements to the Windows Search experience, including features to conceal recommended content and trending searches, and improvements to the quality of search results by emphasizing local outcomes. Users can streamline the search home interface to display only recent searches and benefit from a redesigned preview pane with clearer headers and informative metadata. New options in the Settings menu allow users to hide web and Microsoft Store suggestions from search results, and when web results are activated, promotional content will not appear in the preview pane. Ranking improvements have been initiated to ensure more relevant settings appear higher in search results, with local results prioritized over web and Store suggestions. The search functionality has been enhanced to accurately locate content even with typographical errors and now supports two-character file searches. These improvements will be gradually rolled out to Insiders, with manual activation available through the new feature flags menu in Windows Settings.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

How to Install Messaging Apps Safely on Windows PCs and Android Devices

Messaging applications are widely used for communication across various platforms, including Windows PCs and Android devices. Users often install these apps on both types of devices to facilitate conversations. The installation process requires careful consideration of the app's source, compatibility, permissions, and avoidance of counterfeit installers. Before installation, users should verify the app's source for transparency and security, ensuring it is from a trusted provider and appropriate for their device. For Windows users, a checklist includes confirming system compatibility, verifying the installer, and reading installation screens carefully. Android users should also confirm the app's source, check permissions, and avoid suspicious APK files. Fake installers and unsafe APKs pose risks, as they can contain modified versions of apps that compromise security. Users should be cautious of misleading download pages and links shared in online groups. Keeping messaging apps updated is essential for performance and security, and users should manage updates from trusted sources. Before logging into a messaging app, users should ensure it was downloaded from a reliable source, verify the file's compatibility with their device, review permissions, and safeguard verification codes. After logging in, users should check active sessions and remain vigilant against suspicious links and files.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

EU Sanctions VK for Developing Messenger App Max

The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russian tech giant VK and its subsidiary, Communication Platform LLC, due to their involvement in the development of the Kremlin-backed messaging app, Max. The development of Max was overseen by the Federal Security Service (FSB), and it has been criticized for its surveillance capabilities. These sanctions are part of a broader strategy by the EU and the UK to target entities linked to Russian cyberattacks. The EU and UK also announced additional sanctions against individuals and entities involved in Russian cyber operations, including targeting leaders of Russia's GRU military intelligence and individuals linked to the FSB’s Center 16. Apple removed VK platforms and the Max app from its App Store last month, citing compliance with sanctions. The EU plans to introduce its 21st package of sanctions against Russia soon.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

EU Imposes Sanctions on Tech Giant VK and State-Backed MAX Messaging App

The European Union has sanctioned VK, the Russian technology firm behind VKontakte and its subsidiary MAX, due to their involvement in cyber activities and providing personal data to Russian authorities against dissenters. These sanctions were formalized on July 13 and align with a broader effort involving the UK, targeting individuals and entities linked to Russia's cyber operations. The MAX application is developed under the oversight of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). Additionally, Apple's removal of VK applications from its App Store has prompted a response from the Kremlin, with government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicating a need for clarification from Apple on this decision.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Microsoft demystifies how Windows updates work

Microsoft has released a guide on the Windows servicing model, detailing monthly security updates, optional preview releases, hotpatch updates, and feature rollout mechanisms. Patch Tuesday occurs every second Tuesday of the month, delivering cumulative security updates to supported Windows versions. For consumers and small businesses, updates are managed through Windows Update, while enterprises can use various tools like Windows Autopatch and WSUS. Hotpatch updates, which focus on security fixes, can be installed without a restart, unlike quarterly baseline updates that require one. Optional non-security preview updates are released in the fourth week of each month for testing upcoming fixes and new features, available only for the latest supported Windows versions. Unmanaged devices can access these updates through Windows Update settings, while IT-managed devices depend on organizational policies. Microsoft also issues out-of-band updates to address urgent issues, which can be deployed through enterprise management tools. New features for Windows 11 are rolled out throughout the year via various channels, with a gradual rollout strategy to monitor quality and compatibility, using the Controlled Feature Rollout approach.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Dutch consumer group suing PlayStation argues the end of physical discs just proves its point: ‘Sony alone decides what a game costs and even how long you are allowed to use it’

The Dutch consumer organization Stichting Massaschade & Consument (SM&C) is involved in a €400 million lawsuit against Sony over a 30% fee on games sold through the PlayStation Store, known as the "Sony tax." Sony plans to phase out physical game discs by 2028, which could eliminate the second-hand market and give Sony sole control over game pricing. Lucia Melcherts, chair of SM&C, expressed concerns that this would limit consumer options. PlayStation's projected revenue for 2025 is ¥4.69 trillion, but the lawsuit poses a significant challenge for the company. Analyst Daniel Ahmad suggests that Sony may need to adjust its policies regarding the PlayStation Store.