system settings Archives

Winsage

August 26, 2025

Windows 10’s extended support option is taking its sweet time to roll out

Microsoft will continue to provide security updates for Windows 10 beyond October 2025 for users who do not upgrade to Windows 11. Users can extend support by accessing the “Enroll now (ESU)” wizard in system settings, which has been gradually rolled out since late July 2025. Currently, only a limited number of users can see this menu, and the rollout is ongoing. The ESU wizard offers three options for extended updates, allowing users to secure an additional year of support. Users can register for extended support until October 13, 2025. Microsoft has decided not to terminate support for Windows 10 as initially planned and is offering three options for continued updates, two of which are free. Notifications urging users to upgrade before the support deadline have begun appearing, although the option to remain on Windows 10 is less prominently displayed.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Fitbit finally listened! Dark Mode arrives on Android after years of user demands

Fitbit has rolled out the dark mode feature in its Android app with version 4.50, allowing users to manually activate the "Dark Theme" or have it automatically adjust based on system settings. This update aims to reduce glare in low-light environments and may extend battery life on OLED devices. However, not all app elements are fully optimized for dark mode at launch, with some inconsistencies expected to be addressed in future updates. The rollout began on August 21. Additionally, Fitbit is exploring AI tools to enhance health tracking, including an AI-driven lab report summary tool and a Symptom Checker that provides personalized health suggestions.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Troubleshooting File System Errors on Windows 10/11 Drives

File system errors on Windows 10 and 11 can occur due to corrupted system files, faulty updates, bad sectors on the drive, malware infections, hardware issues, or application conflicts. Common error messages often include numeric codes indicating the type of problem. To fix these errors, users can follow several methods, starting with simpler solutions: 1. Restart the Computer: A simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. 2. Uninstall Problematic Windows Updates: If an error follows a recent update, uninstalling it may help. 3. Run DISM and SFC Commands: These commands repair the Windows system image and verify system files. 4. Run CHKDSK Command: This scans for bad sectors and repairs the file system structure. 5. Reset the Microsoft Store Cache: This clears the cache for Store-based apps without affecting installed apps. 6. Reinstall the Problematic Application: Uninstalling and reinstalling specific applications can resolve app-related errors. 7. Reset this PC: As a last resort, this option reinstalls Windows while allowing users to keep personal files or remove everything. Each method is arranged from least to most disruptive, allowing users to stop once the error is resolved.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Google’s Critical Tool Gets an App—Android Users Should Download It

Google Password Manager has launched a dedicated app for managing saved credentials, enhancing user accessibility without navigating complex settings. The app is compatible with the Pixel 10 lineup and offers a user-friendly interface with three main tabs: Passwords, Checkup, and Settings. It includes features like alerts for apps and websites supporting passkeys and maintains strong security with end-to-end encryption. The app is currently in the initial rollout phase and is available for both phones and tablets on Android.

Winsage

August 15, 2025

Windows 10 update KB5063709 prepares support extension until October 2026

Official mainstream support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. Users without the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will not receive security updates after this date, while those enrolled in the ESU can receive critical updates until October 13, 2026. The KB5063709 update introduces an "Enroll now" button in the Windows Update section, allowing users to register for the ESU program. This update also fixes issues with the ESU logon wizard crashing and includes enhancements such as core file system optimizations, input method adjustments, secure boot improvements, and updates for mobile profile settings. KB5063709 upgrades Windows 10, version 22H2, to build number 19045.6216 and version 21H2 to build number 19044.6216. Users can register for the ESU program through a Microsoft account, Microsoft Rewards points, or a one-time fee, and those with local accounts must create a Microsoft account to enroll.

AppWizard

August 10, 2025

5 file management apps you should use instead of Files by Google

Files by Google is a free and lightweight file management application for Android that helps users manage files, clean up duplicates, and free up storage space. In a recent poll, users reported their preferences for file management apps: Files by Google (15%), Mixplorer (4%), Material Files (12%), Solid Explorer (23%), Cx File Explorer (12%), Fossify File Manager (12%), and another app (8%). Mixplorer is noted for its versatility, integrating various storage solutions and supporting symlinks, with a customizable design and a dropdown breadcrumbs menu. It is available for free via XDA, with a paid version, Mixplorer Silver, on the Play Store. Material Files features an intuitive interface influenced by Material You, adapting to device color themes, but lacks Google Drive browsing capabilities. Solid Explorer offers a polished UI with a two-pane file management system and real-time folder size displays, along with fingerprint security for storage access. Cx File Explorer focuses on managing storage with analysis tools that highlight storage usage and a clean design. Fossify File Manager is a free, open-source option that emphasizes privacy, allowing users to lock files and folders, with a user-friendly interface and customizable themes.

Winsage

August 9, 2025

Windows 11’s annoying post-installation prompts are being simplified

Microsoft has updated the beta version of Windows 11 to improve the installation process by redesigning the Second Chance Out-of-Box Experience (SCOOBE). The new SCOOBE features a single-screen interface with a concise list of toggles for optional features and buttons labeled “Keep current settings” and “Accept and continue,” allowing users to bypass multiple prompts and transition more quickly to their desktop. This change is particularly beneficial for users who frequently reset their Windows installations. Microsoft states that some Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels will see this refreshed SCOOBE screen, which aims to be more intuitive and streamlined.

Winsage

August 3, 2025

Fix: “Failed to Update the System Registry” Error in Windows 10/11

The error message “Failed to update the system registry. Please try using REGEDIT” indicates issues with the Windows Registry, which stores system settings and application information. This error often arises when running older programs on newer Windows versions due to factors such as lack of administrative permissions, incompatibility with current Windows versions, or interference from antivirus software. To resolve this error, users can take several steps: 1. Run the program as an administrator by right-clicking the application and selecting “Run as administrator,” or by setting this option permanently in the program's properties under the Compatibility tab. 2. Use the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter, accessible through the Control Panel on Windows 10 or through Settings on Windows 11, to adjust settings for older programs. 3. Whitelist the program in antivirus settings to prevent it from blocking necessary registry modifications. 4. Reinstall the program with administrator rights by right-clicking the installer and selecting “Run as administrator.”

Winsage

August 2, 2025

It’s the final countdown for Windows 10—grab 11 Pro for just $15

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, meaning no more security updates, feature enhancements, or technical assistance. Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, down from 9, offering a lifetime license without subscriptions or hidden fees. It features a modern interface, enhanced performance, robust security tools like BitLocker, productivity tools such as Snap Layouts, and an AI assistant called Copilot. Windows 11 Pro also includes advanced features like Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and Azure AD support, making it suitable for various professionals. The upgrade process is simple: download and install.

Winsage

July 31, 2025

Microsoft’s new “move to Windows 11” campaign implies buying OneDrive paid plan

Microsoft has released a video reminding Windows 10 users about the upcoming end-of-life date and the ease of migrating to Windows 11 without losing personal data. The animation highlights the system backup feature, which allows users to preserve and migrate their system settings, applications, preferences, and personal files to a new PC by enrolling their device in the backup. A Microsoft account is necessary for storing these settings and preferences, while OneDrive is emphasized for safeguarding personal files. The free OneDrive plan offers only 5 GB of storage, which may not be sufficient for users with large data needs. Microsoft suggests upgrading to a OneDrive plan, but some users are hesitant to rely on it due to the additional cost. An alternative method for backing up personal data involves using an external disk. Microsoft also notes the limitations of the free OneDrive plan in the video. Additionally, there is a suggestion to reintroduce the Nearby sharing feature for easier file transfers between Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems in the upcoming 24H2 update.