Surface Pro Archives

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Farewell, Windows 10!

On October 14, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10, ceasing new features, security updates, or bug fixes. Users are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase a new device. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers security updates for an additional year beyond October 2025, available for free with a Microsoft account or for a fee of 1,000 Microsoft reward points. Alternatives to Windows 10 include Linux distributions and Google's ChromeOS, with WINUX being a notable Linux option that resembles Windows. Recommended devices for those considering a new purchase include the ASUS Zenbook A14, priced around 9, and the Microsoft Surface Pro 11, priced around ,399.99.

Winsage

September 14, 2025

Windows 10 is almost dead — here’s my top 5 Windows 11 picks to get before the deadline

The end of Windows 10 support is on October 14, 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11. Users can enroll in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of security updates if they wish to retain Windows 10. Lightweight options like Tiny11 Build can help older PCs, but Windows 11's hardware requirements may prevent some users from upgrading. Installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices risks missing essential security updates, making hardware upgrades advisable. Recommended devices for Windows 11 include: - Laptop: Acer Aspire Go 15, featuring an Intel Core i3-N305 CPU, a 15.6-inch display, priced under 0, with up to 10 hours of battery life. - Desktop: Dell XPS 8950, suitable for office use and gaming, especially with Nvidia RTX GPUs. - Gaming Desktop: Acer Predator Orion 5000, known for performance and value, often available for less than ,799 during sales. - Mini PC: Geekom A5 2025 Edition, priced around 9, supports up to four monitors, and has upgradeable components. - All-in-One PC: MSI Modern AM271P 11M, featuring a 27-inch display, suitable for everyday tasks, bundled with a keyboard and mouse. - 2-in-1 Laptop: Microsoft Surface Pro 11, equipped with a Snapdragon X-series chip, designed for both casual browsing and intensive tasks.

Winsage

September 3, 2025

Meta Quest: Microsoft Adds Windows on Arm Support to Mixed Reality Link App

Microsoft's Mixed Reality Link app now supports Windows on Arm PCs, allowing users of Arm-based devices like the Surface Pro 11 to connect with Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets. This update, rolled out around August 29 via the Microsoft Store, enables users to stream their Windows desktop and create a multi-monitor setup with up to three virtual screens. Initially launched for x86-based PCs in December 2024, this expansion to Arm reflects Microsoft's commitment to feature parity across its hardware ecosystem. The update strengthens the partnership between Microsoft and Meta, aiming to establish mixed reality headsets as essential tools for work and leisure. The Meta Quest 3S, recently launched, is designed to make VR technology more accessible, and includes an "Xbox Edition" bundle with an Xbox controller and Game Pass subscription. This update positions Microsoft strategically in the spatial computing landscape, targeting mainstream consumer and prosumer markets while maintaining Windows as a core productivity hub.

Winsage

September 1, 2025

Snapdragon X laptops now work with select Meta Quest headsets

The Mixed Reality Link app now supports PCs powered by Snapdragon X processors, allowing connectivity with Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S headsets. Previously limited to Intel and AMD PCs, the app's compatibility with Windows 11 on ARM has been noted, although official documentation from Microsoft has not confirmed this. Users have successfully connected devices like the Surface Pro 11 to the Mixed Reality Link. The Meta Quest 3S is priced at 9 and offers a powerful chipset and next-gen controllers, making it an affordable option in the VR headset market. It supports a wide range of Meta Quest games despite some trade-offs in field of view and display quality. The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition, priced higher, includes an Xbox controller and a subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and has received positive feedback for its integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Winsage

August 30, 2025

RIP Mobile Plans app — Microsoft is shutting it down in 2026

Microsoft will retire the Mobile Plans app on February 27, 2026, directing users to manage cellular plans through a web browser instead. The app will remain functional for managing eSIM data plans, but adjustments will require visiting the provider's website. Windows 11 users can activate eSIMs via QR codes or manual entry, with a new feature in testing that may simplify this process. Many Windows laptops, including Microsoft's Surface Pro 11, offer 5G or 4G LTE options. An eSIM integrates SIM functionality into the device, eliminating the need for a physical card and allowing easier carrier switching. Laptops can connect through 5G or 4G LTE networks, with 5G providing enhanced speeds and lower latency.

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Surface Pro 12-inch vs iPad Air? Sales just tipped the scales.

Microsoft's Surface Pro 12-inch is currently available at its lowest price ever, with a discount of 0, bringing the price down to 9. The accompanying keyboard is also discounted for the first time, priced at 7.12. The Surface Pro 12-inch received a rating of 4.5 out of 5 in a review, praised for its fanless design, performance, and 90Hz display. It is designed to be compact and portable, making it suitable for students and professionals. The Surface Pro 12-inch shares design similarities with the iPad Air, featuring a boxy chassis and rounded display corners. The Surface Pro 12-inch is priced at 6.11, which is lower than the retail price of the 13-inch iPad Air with an M3 processor, while the iPad Air can be found discounted to as low as 9. The Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air costs 9, which is significantly more than the Surface Pro 12-inch keyboard.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

I was about to upgrade to Windows 11, but I’ve decided to stick with Windows 10

The upgrade to Windows 11 has been delayed primarily due to the announcement of a free option for Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10, allowing users to receive support until October 2026 without incurring costs. The requirement to sync settings with OneDrive is seen as a minor inconvenience. Additionally, there are concerns about the performance of Windows 11, with reports of issues such as sluggishness and bugs affecting stability, including a glitch in the recent 24H2 update that could disrupt SSD functionality. The familiarity and reliability of Windows 10 further contribute to the decision to remain on that operating system for now.

Winsage

August 14, 2025

The Xbox app for Windows on Arm will soon let you download games

Microsoft is enhancing the gaming experience on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs by rolling out new features that expand the library of playable games. Users can now download ARM64 compatible games directly through the Xbox app for Windows on Arm, a feature currently available for Windows Insiders. This allows local installation of games instead of relying solely on Xbox Cloud Gaming, which was the previous limitation for Qualcomm-powered devices like the Surface Pro 12. A selection of ARM64 games from PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will now be accessible on these devices. Collaboration between Microsoft's Windows and Xbox teams has been crucial for ensuring compatibility with the Game Pass catalog, and the company is developing additional features to support more games on Arm-based PCs. The ARM64 version of the Xbox app was initially launched in 2022, but natively compiled games were limited at that time. Users can check the Windows on Arm ready site to see which games perform well on their devices.

Winsage

August 11, 2025

Get ready for back to school with great deals on Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs

As the academic year approaches, there is an increased demand for reliable and high-performance PCs that support students' academic needs and personal style. Windows 11, enhanced with Copilot, offers tools for productivity and organization. Microsoft is promoting back-to-school discounts on Surface devices, including savings on the Surface Pro 13-inch, Surface Laptop 13-inch, and Surface Pro 12-inch. Students can trade in their Windows 10 PCs for cash back and receive a complimentary trial of Microsoft 365 Personal. Various manufacturers, including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung, are offering Windows 11 PCs designed for learning and creativity. Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, and Walmart are providing deals on laptops and tech accessories.

Winsage

August 8, 2025

Ask Engadget: What are my options when Windows 10 support ends on October 14?

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Users can continue to operate their Windows 10 PCs after this date, but they will not receive customer support, security updates, or upgrades, making the system vulnerable. Upgrading to Windows 11 is the best option for most users, provided their hardware meets the minimum requirements. Users can check compatibility with Microsoft's PC Health Check app. If a PC cannot support Windows 11, users may consider buying a new PC, with prices typically ranging from 0 to ,200. Alternatively, users can continue using Windows 10, which poses significant security risks without updates. Another option is to pay for the Windows 10 Extended Security Update (ESU) for an additional year of support until October 13, 2026, available for a fee or Microsoft reward points.