support documentation Archives

Winsage

July 24, 2026

Microsoft finally lets you fix the worst key on your keyboard

The Copilot key on Windows PCs can now be remapped to function as the Context menu key or the Right Ctrl key with the latest update to Windows 11. Users also have the option to disable the key entirely. Microsoft has provided documentation on how to remap the key under the Bluetooth & devices section. Some users have reported inconsistent availability of the remapping option, which may require enabling a specific feature ID. Additionally, Microsoft’s PowerToys offers a keyboard manager utility for broader key remapping options.

AppWizard

July 21, 2026

Exclusive: Google Maps is laying the groundwork for its smartest update yet

Google Maps is set to enhance its functionality with the integration of Gemini’s Personal Intelligence feature, which will connect various Google services like Gmail and Google Photos to provide relevant information within the app. Users will be able to access details about reservations and flights by linking Maps with Google Workspace and Google Photos, creating a personalized experience. The feature will initially work with Contacts, Google Photos, Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Calendar), Search Services, and YouTube. Additionally, new sections labeled “Connected Content Apps” and “Personalization” have been identified in the Google Maps account switcher, although they are not yet operational.

Winsage

July 10, 2026

Microsoft confirms Secure Boot update failing on some Windows 11 PCs, promises a resolution

Microsoft has acknowledged that some Windows 11 PCs are facing issues with Secure Boot certificate updates, which may fail to install or be blocked. The company is working with PC manufacturers to develop a patch, while users may need to take proactive measures if their certificates are obstructed. Microsoft has temporarily halted the rollout of Secure Boot for certain devices due to complications, and affected users will receive detailed error messages in the Windows Security app regarding their Secure Boot certificates. Secure Boot certificates issued in 2011 have expired, and Microsoft is replacing them with new certificates issued in 2023. Most modern hardware is already utilizing the new certificates, but some devices may have disabled Secure Boot or faulty firmware. Users can check their Secure Boot status in the Windows Security app. HP has confirmed that Secure Boot updates are being blocked on some of its PCs due to a BitLocker issue, which prevents the installation of new certificates. Microsoft has paused Secure Boot certificate updates for devices affected by known issues while collaborating with manufacturers to identify specific devices or firmware complications. A firmware update will be necessary for affected devices, but it is not yet available. The majority of PCs have received the Secure Boot certificates via Windows Update, but compatibility issues may prevent some devices from receiving the update. Older devices or those not among the OEM’s top-selling models may not receive updates if the UEFI firmware is unsupported. Secure Boot is a security feature required for Windows 11, preventing unauthorized software from executing at boot. While an expired Secure Boot certificate does not stop a PC from functioning, it may limit long-term security protection. Microsoft advises users not to disable Secure Boot, as it would compromise security further.

Winsage

June 30, 2026

Is SteamOS ready to replace Windows? I installed it so you don’t have to

The Steam Machine was announced with a starting price of 9 in the U.S. and £879 in the U.K. SteamOS is currently in beta and primarily supports the Steam Deck, Steam Machine, and Lenovo Legion Go S, with only about 19.13% of Steam users utilizing AMD GPUs compared to 72.42% using Nvidia. AMD provides broad support for Linux through open-source drivers, while Nvidia's proprietary drivers complicate SteamOS installation. Installing SteamOS requires a complete wipe of the NVMe SSD, and there is limited support documentation from Valve. Users have created guides to assist with installation, which involves adjusting BIOS settings and partitioning drives. Networking issues were encountered during installation, requiring command line updates and workarounds. SteamOS offers a console-like experience and a user-friendly interface for gaming, but it presents challenges for users who are not experienced with DIY setups.

Winsage

June 26, 2026

You weren’t imagining it: Windows 11’s slow shutdowns are finally fixed

Windows 11 users are experiencing delays during the shutdown process, attributed to the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). Microsoft has released an optional update, KB5095093, to address this issue by improving the shutdown time of the BITS service. The update is expected to reduce unexpected freezes linked to BITS and also includes enhancements in Bluetooth functionality. Users must manually install the update via Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog, with improvements set to be included in July’s main update.

Winsage

June 25, 2026

Windows 10 quietly gets one more year of support and updates

Microsoft has extended the support timeline for Windows 10 by initiating the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides an additional year of essential security updates until October 12, 2027. Users can enroll in the ESU program until it ends, and those already enrolled will have their coverage automatically continue through that date. The ESU program, previously a paid feature for businesses, is now available to regular consumers at no additional cost.

AppWizard

June 15, 2026

How to Use Meta AI on Meta Apps

Meta AI is integrated into WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger, providing functionalities like chat, search, image generation, and automated customer support through the Meta Business Agent. Its availability varies by country, account type, app version, and language. Users should be aware that seeing a colleague's blue Meta AI ring in WhatsApp while they do not may indicate a rollout flag on Meta's end rather than an app malfunction. Meta AI can answer queries, suggest ideas, generate images from prompts, clarify messages, assist with searches, and support customer interactions for business accounts. It is linked to the Llama model family, including Llama 2 and Llama 3. To use Meta AI on WhatsApp, users need to update the app and can start a chat by locating the Meta AI button or circle. They can ask practical questions, request image generation, and utilize it in group chats. On Instagram, it enhances DMs and search functions, allowing users to create AI chats for content ideas and captions. In Messenger, there is an "Ask Meta AI" bar for direct interactions. Users can also utilize Meta AI on Facebook for search and content discovery. The Meta Business Agent is a version of Meta AI for businesses, providing 24/7 responses to customer inquiries. It can be set up in Meta Business Suite or WhatsApp Business. Privacy measures should be considered, as users cannot entirely disable Meta AI and should avoid sharing sensitive information in chats. For better responses, users should provide context and constraints in their prompts and consider training in prompt design and AI risk management for professional use.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

How to Use Android Storage Tools Like Google Files App to Free Up Space and Improve Android Performance

As Android phones accumulate data, users may experience performance declines due to filled internal storage from photos, videos, cached files, downloads, and unused applications. Performance issues can include slower app launches, lag during multitasking, delayed software updates, camera saving issues, and reduced gaming performance. Regular storage management is essential for optimal device performance. Android devices come with built-in storage management tools such as the Google Files app, Google Photos "Free Up Space," Smart Storage, cache management settings, and app archiving features. These tools are generally safer than third-party cleaning applications. The Google Files app scans devices and suggests safely removable files, detecting duplicates, large videos, old screenshots, temporary files, unused downloads, and blurry images. Users can access cleanup suggestions by opening the app, tapping the "Clean" tab, reviewing suggestions, selecting unwanted files, and confirming deletion. The app also features a Trash option for temporarily holding deleted files. Google Photos allows users to remove local copies of backed-up files by tapping the profile icon, selecting "Free up space," reviewing backed-up files, and confirming deletion. Users can choose between "Storage Saver" and "Original Quality" backup settings. Smart Storage automatically deletes backed-up photos and videos when storage is low. Clearing cache can improve performance by removing accumulated temporary files. Users can clear cache by going to Settings, tapping Apps, choosing an app, selecting Storage, and tapping "Clear Cache." Removing unused applications can free up space and improve system organization. Common mistakes include installing untrustworthy third-party apps, deleting files without backups, clearing app data instead of cache, and neglecting large downloads and duplicates. Simple habits like deleting old screenshots, regularly clearing downloads, backing up photos, monitoring storage monthly, and limiting offline video downloads can improve storage management.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Microsoft to retire Edge sidebar apps as part of Windows 11 simplification

Microsoft is retiring the sidebar app list feature from its Edge browser, starting with users signed in with a Microsoft account. The ability to add new apps to the sidebar has already been disabled, and existing pinned apps will be removed in a future update. Users will receive notifications prior to the full removal of the feature. Microsoft has not provided a direct replacement for the sidebar app list, and while features like Split Screen remain available, they do not replicate the sidebar's quick-access functionality. Microsoft plans to continue developing its Copilot integration within Edge, despite mixed user responses to the removal of the sidebar app list.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

Microsoft confirms April Windows updates cause backup failures

Microsoft has acknowledged that the April 2026 security updates have disrupted the functionality of various third-party backup applications using the psmounterex.sys driver, raising concerns among users. The issue primarily affects software leveraging the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) snapshots, leading to failures due to VSS service timeouts. Notable impacted products include Macrium Reflect, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, UrBackup Server, and NinjaOne Backup, used on Windows 11, Windows Server, and Windows 10 devices. Disruptions can manifest as failures to mount backup image files, errors or timeouts when browsing or restoring from backup images, and error messages related to VSS timeouts. Microsoft updated its support documentation to clarify that the April updates included a security hardening change that added psmounterex.sys to the vulnerable driver blocklist to protect against a high-severity buffer overflow vulnerability (CVE-2023-43896). Affected users are advised to upgrade to newer application versions with updated drivers and not to uninstall or pause the security update. Users can check if the Microsoft Vulnerable Driver Blocklist is blocking a driver by looking for Event ID 3077 in the Code Integrity Operational log. Additionally, Microsoft has alerted users that some Windows Server 2025 devices may boot into BitLocker recovery mode after installing the KB5082063 update and has issued out-of-band updates to address installation failures and restart loops affecting Windows Server systems after the April 2026 updates.