The Linux desktop market share has not exceeded 10% in North America, and Windows is not experiencing a significant loss of users. Recent claims about Linux's market share reaching over 10% are based on misinterpreted data from StatCounter, which tracks page views rather than actual users. StatCounter's methodology can lead to inflated Linux numbers due to increased bot activity. In July 2026, it was reported that Windows market share remained above 60%. Cloudflare Radar also noted a spike in Linux usage, but this was largely attributed to automated traffic, with human-only traffic showing Linux at approximately 4.7%. Microsoft reports that Windows 11 is currently operating on 1.6 billion PCs.
Users can optimize their Google Pixel devices by disabling or uninstalling certain pre-installed apps that may no longer serve a purpose.
1. Google Chrome: Users can disable it to hide its icon and prevent updates, especially if they prefer a different browser. Recent regulatory changes may allow some users to uninstall it entirely.
2. Google Photos: While it offers features like AI enhancements, it can consume significant storage, particularly after the discontinuation of unlimited photo storage for Pixel users. Disabling it may affect the camera app's functionality, but it can be re-enabled later.
3. Google Books: Users can typically uninstall this app if they prefer alternatives like Kindle or Libby. However, removing it may restrict access to purchased ebooks or audiobooks.
4. YouTube Music: This app may be unnecessary for users already using other music services. Depending on the device, users may be able to disable or uninstall it to free up space.
Microsoft is redesigning the context menu in Windows 11 to address complaints about its sluggishness and clutter. The new design will feature a more compact layout that enhances loading speed and offers full customization options. Users will be able to prioritize frequently used actions, hide seldom-used entries, and rearrange items in the menu. This initiative is part of the broader Windows K2 project aimed at improving the operating system's performance and user experience. The redesigned context menu is currently functional in internal testing, but no timeline for its public rollout has been announced.
Microsoft has released two Cumulative Update Previews: KB5101681 for Windows 11, which includes calendar-based Windows Update pausing, a quieter Widgets experience, and enhanced accessibility features; and KB5101684 for Windows 10, which introduces Voice Isolation for Voice Access and new precision touchpad gesture controls. The company reported a record billion quarter for fiscal year 2026, with an 18% year-over-year increase, and Azure's annual revenue surpassed billion for the first time. Microsoft 365 Copilot's paid seat count exceeded 30 million. Xbox experienced a significant outage due to a failure in a shared licensing service, but services have since been restored. The Windows Insider Program released two Future Platforms builds that include features like Voice Isolation and a new scheduling system for updates. Wintoys transitioned to .NET 10 and Windows App SDK 2.3.1, while Notepad, Calculator, Clock, and Media Player received minor updates. Excel's July update added Power BI support and eliminated the AutoSave requirement. Microsoft confirmed its presence at Gamescom 2026, celebrating Xbox's 25th anniversary with 140 gaming stations and 25 playable titles. Double Fine laid off 23 employees, and Ubisoft canceled Project Maverick but is developing a new project. Xbox console owners can unlock PC versions of select games on Ubisoft Connect at no extra cost. Gears of War: E-Day introduced a new 12-player Horde Siege mode.
Google is refining its YouTube sign-in procedures by implementing a passive sign-in feature that allows users to bypass traditional login hurdles, aiming to enhance user experience and increase engagement. This approach reflects a commitment to user satisfaction and prioritizes accessibility in the tech industry.
Maintaining the performance of a Windows 11 computer requires regular care, particularly in software management. An annual deep clean is recommended, with the following steps to improve performance:
1. Uninstall Apps: Use BCUninstaller to remove unnecessary applications, including those from the Microsoft Store, with a bulk uninstall feature and a post-uninstallation cleanup for leftover files.
2. Run a Debloat Script: Utilize tools like Chris Titus Tech's Windows Utility to disable unnecessary bloatware and manage telemetry settings.
3. Disable Startup Apps: Access the Task Manager to disable non-essential applications that launch at startup, improving boot times.
4. Check for Driver Updates: Ensure drivers are up to date through Windows Update and check graphics driver websites for the latest versions.
5. Run a Malware Scan: Use Malwarebytes for deep scans to identify and remove potential malware threats.
6. Delete Temporary Files: Clear temporary files through the Settings app and clean up web browser cached files to free up space.
The technology behind Half-Life, known as GoldSrc, is a modified version of the Quake engine, and remnants of Quake code are present in Valve's Source 2. A modder named KleskBY is developing a project called Libre-life, which aims to port elements from Half-Life into Quake source ports, particularly focusing on the Zircon Engine. KleskBY believes that older engines like GoldSrc have limitations that hinder creativity and prefers using Quake source ports over Xash3D, arguing that they offer capabilities that Xash does not. Libre-life is in early development, with progress including the reimplementation of all weapons from Half-Life 1. KleskBY uses AI extensively in the project, despite expressing strong negative opinions about AI's broader implications.
Microsoft announced enhancements for Windows 11 aimed at optimizing performance and resource utilization, potentially reconsidering the minimum system requirements. A new tool for IT administrators was introduced in the July Intune update (Service Release 2607), which includes native support for Registry Inventory. This feature allows administrators to assess system configurations more accurately, aiding in troubleshooting, compliance, and security. The Registry Inventory feature operates through Intune's Properties catalog, enabling administrators to monitor specific registry keys. Detailed reports are generated for each configured entry, providing information on registry key paths, value names, types, and data. The data collected is accessible from the Device inventory page, and the initial release supports common collection patterns for HKEYLOCALMACHINE (HKLM) registry paths. Registry Inventory is included with Microsoft Intune Plan 1. Other enhancements in the Intune update include management capabilities for Samsung firmware updates.
Alternative third-party app stores are becoming more prominent on Android, with major companies developing their own storefronts to bypass Google. These stores will be accessible for download directly from the Google Play Store in the U.S. for the first time. This shift is driven by developers' dissatisfaction with the "app tax" imposed by Google and Apple, along with international regulatory efforts like Europe’s Digital Markets Act, which require tech giants to open their platforms to competition. While this change offers more choices for users, it also raises security concerns as the Google Play Store's protective measures may be weakened, leading to potential risks from counterfeit app stores. Additionally, the rise of third-party stores may complicate subscription management and billing, as each store will likely implement its own payment system. This fragmentation could increase the risk of data breaches and complicate user experience. The future may see a competitive landscape similar to streaming services, potentially driving Google to improve its offerings.
