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Surface Pro

“Gaming compatibility on Snapdragon X has come such a long way”: What 200 tested games tell us about Surface Pro 11
Winsage
May 4, 2026

“Gaming compatibility on Snapdragon X has come such a long way”: What 200 tested games tell us about Surface Pro 11

Qualcomm and Microsoft are marketing their Snapdragon X-powered PCs without emphasizing gaming, despite Qualcomm claiming that 90% of top Windows games are compatible with Snapdragon X2 laptops. The Snapdragon X2 chip announcement does not mention gaming, contrasting with ASUS's promotion of the Zenbook A16 for gaming. YouTuber Ghobso Gaming has tested 200 games on a Surface Pro 11 with a Snapdragon X Plus, sharing a list of ten well-performing games, including Fortnite, which became playable after Easy Anti-Cheat support was introduced. The performance of Snapdragon X PCs has improved significantly, and there is potential for gaming handhelds powered by Snapdragon X chips to compete with Intel and AMD devices.
Microsoft explains why Windows 11 File Explorer scrolls smoothly in some places, but not everywhere
Winsage
April 26, 2026

Microsoft explains why Windows 11 File Explorer scrolls smoothly in some places, but not everywhere

Users have reported an inconsistent scrolling experience in Microsoft’s File Explorer, with smooth scrolling in the Gallery and Home views but jagged scrolling in standard folders. This discrepancy is due to the Gallery and Home views utilizing the WinUI 3 framework, while standard folders rely on legacy Win32 code. Microsoft is modernizing aspects of File Explorer but has not yet rewritten its foundational elements, leading to different rendering paths. The traditional folder views retain essential functionalities but sacrifice some modern UI features. Touch support issues are acknowledged, with current interactions prioritizing mouse and keyboard over touch gestures. Microsoft is addressing performance and reliability issues, with improvements in folder view consistency and reduced crashes noted in recent preview builds. These updates are expected in the May 2026 update, while smooth scrolling enhancements are planned for the future.
Windows Wrap: Surface is raising prices while lowering ambition
Winsage
April 21, 2026

Windows Wrap: Surface is raising prices while lowering ambition

Microsoft has raised prices for its current generation of Surface devices, causing concerns about the market viability of the upcoming Surface Pro 12 and Surface Laptop 8. The company is facing an identity crisis while refining Windows 11, with some suggesting a transition to Windows 12. The price increases come at a time when Surface is struggling to compete with Apple's MacBook Neo in the budget segment. The upcoming Surface models may lack powerful chips from Intel and Qualcomm, which could hinder their appeal. In the meantime, alternatives like the ASUS Zenbook A16 and HP OmniBook X Flip 2-in-1 are being highlighted for consumers seeking options.
Windows Wrap — 4 steps to save the Surface brand
Winsage
March 29, 2026

Windows Wrap — 4 steps to save the Surface brand

Microsoft has not announced specific dates for the upcoming Surface devices, but new models are expected. Senior Editor Zac Bowden has advised potential buyers to wait before purchasing current-generation models. Recommendations for Microsoft include synchronizing the release of Surface devices with different chipsets, offering both Intel and Snapdragon X versions side by side, unifying features across the lineup, and introducing innovative concepts to reinvigorate the Surface brand. Currently, Amazon is offering discounts on various tech products, including the Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, with sales ending on March 31, 2026.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
February 24, 2026

Surface Pro update fixes key cellular bugs — just as Microsoft leans into 5G

Microsoft has released a firmware update for the Surface Pro (11th Gen) in February, focusing on enhancing connectivity and device reliability. Key improvements include enhanced security to address vulnerabilities, uninterrupted VPN usage by fixing cellular connectivity issues, consistent cellular settings, improved video conferencing during Microsoft Teams calls, resolved compatibility issues with Surface Dock 2, and a fix for Dolby Vision video playback errors. Additionally, Microsoft is collaborating with Ericsson to enhance 5G connectivity for Surface Pro users, which will include features like automatic eSIM switching and remote policy management. Future 5G bundles will include Microsoft 365, Intune, and Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect, available with Surface Copilot+ PCs.
This Windows 11 optimization and cleanup app blends perfectly into your PC's UI — and I never usually care about these 'debloaters'
Winsage
February 17, 2026

This Windows 11 optimization and cleanup app blends perfectly into your PC’s UI — and I never usually care about these ‘debloaters’

Winhance is an open-source application developed by Marco du Plessis for optimizing Windows 10 and 11 on various devices. It has a user-friendly interface and has been available on GitHub for over a year. The latest version, v26.02.17, includes updates that improve its transition to the WinUI 3 framework. Winhance features a System Restore backup option, a batch uninstaller for removing default Microsoft applications, and allows users to install multiple applications simultaneously. It also offers unique tweaks to prevent OEMs from pre-installing unwanted software and provides an option to generate an Autounattend XML file for replicating configurations across devices. Users are advised to download Winhance from the official GitHub repository and back up their files before using the tool.
"Windows 11 26H1" is a special version of Windows exclusively for new Arm PCs
Winsage
February 11, 2026

“Windows 11 26H1” is a special version of Windows exclusively for new Arm PCs

The recent developments in Windows versions present challenges for app developers and IT professionals, particularly with the introduction of a new Windows version designed exclusively for the latest Arm PCs. This shift highlights Microsoft's commitment to Arm processors, moving away from its historical focus on x86 versions. The 24H2 update for Windows 10 and 11 introduced significant enhancements for Arm PCs, including an optimized x86-to-Arm translation layer called Prism, improving compatibility and performance for applications not originally designed for Arm. This update coincided with the launch of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X-series processors, leading to more Arm-native Windows applications being released by third-party developers. Microsoft's hardware strategy has shifted, as the new Surface PCs launched in mid-2024 now exclusively use Qualcomm processors, moving away from Intel chips. Since the 24H2 update, development on Arm and x86 versions of Windows has progressed at different rates, with certain features available on Arm versions earlier than on x86 systems. Windows 11 24H2 was also available on Arm PCs in retail stores months before being released to the broader PC ecosystem. Microsoft has been contacted for details on the upcoming Windows 11 26H1 update and its potential enhancements.
We’re talking about the best of Windows 11, and we want your input.
Winsage
January 26, 2026

We’re talking about the best of Windows 11, and we want your input.

Expressions of affection for Windows are common, and while the author acknowledges some shortcomings in Windows 11, it remains an essential tool for productivity, creativity, and communication. Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 Plus platform is expected to indicate a significant transition toward Arm-based Windows devices. The Microsoft Store has become a reliable platform for discovering and downloading applications on Windows. Recent enhancements in Windows 11 have improved the experience for handheld gaming PCs. The Windows Package Manager, or winget, is highly regarded, and PowerToys is recommended as essential for Windows 11 users. The Command Palette allows users to launch applications using the keyboard and execute commands. The Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) provides a genuine Linux experience within Windows 11. Phone Link facilitates effortless photo transfers. The 12-inch Surface LCD is slightly thinner than the Surface Pro 11. The Windows Central community is engaged in discussions about the standout features of Windows 11.
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