update notifications Archives

Winsage

May 31, 2025

Microsoft Debuts Windows Update Orchestration Platform For Updating All Apps From A Single Place

Microsoft has introduced the Windows Update Orchestration Platform, which aims to centralize the management of line-of-business (LOB) and third-party applications through a single interface, enhancing the app update process for developers and users. Currently in private preview, the platform invites developers to explore its features, which include eco-efficient scheduling, consistent notifications, centralized update history, and unified troubleshooting tools. Developers can integrate their applications using Windows Runtime APIs and PowerShell commands to manage various aspects such as registration and update definitions. The initiative addresses challenges like CPU and bandwidth spikes, conflicting notifications, and increased support costs faced by users and IT administrators.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Microsoft unveils “centralized” software update tool for Windows

Microsoft is developing a Windows-native update orchestration platform to improve the software updating experience for IT administrators and end-users. This platform aims to streamline the management of updates across various applications and components within the Windows ecosystem, reducing confusion caused by independent updates for different products. Currently in private preview, developers can access the platform through Windows Runtime (WinRT) APIs and PowerShell commands by registering as update providers. The orchestrator will intelligently defer updates based on user activity and system performance, and it will automatically reschedule failed attempts. Additionally, Microsoft is introducing Windows Backup for Organizations to assist with the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This feature simplifies the backup and restoration of settings for Windows 10 and 11 devices. To use this functionality, devices must be Microsoft Entra hybrid joined or Microsoft Entra joined and running a supported version of Windows. The restore feature is compatible only with Microsoft Entra joined devices running Windows 11, version 22H2 and later. The Windows Backup for Organizations feature is currently in a limited public preview for select members of the Microsoft Management Customer Connection Program.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows Update to include third-party apps – now that’s a game changer

Microsoft is introducing a "Windows Update orchestration platform" that allows third-party developers to integrate their applications with Windows Update. This platform, currently in preview, provides an API for developers to register their apps as update providers, enabling seamless scheduling, downloading, and installation of updates. Developers can defer updates based on user activity and system performance, while users will benefit from a unified update history for all supported applications. Developers interested in the private preview can contact Microsoft at unifiedorchestrator@service.microsoft.com.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps

Microsoft is introducing a new orchestration platform for Windows Update that will allow developers to manage updates for applications and drivers more effectively. This platform will enable developers to enroll in a private preview and is designed to support updates for a wide range of applications, particularly business applications. Currently, Windows Update focuses on core operating system components and essential drivers. The new platform aims to streamline the update process by allowing developers to schedule updates based on user activity and other factors. Developers will also be able to connect their applications with Windows Update notifications, ensuring visibility in the update history. Microsoft plans to support MSIX, APPX, and certain custom Win32 applications within this framework. The initiative follows previous efforts to encourage developers to list applications in the Microsoft Store, which has seen limited adoption for some proprietary applications. Additionally, the Windows Package Manager has been introduced to tackle app installation and update challenges, although its use has been mainly among power users and developers.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps

Microsoft is opening up Windows Update to third-party applications through a private preview of its new Windows Update orchestration platform. This platform aims to streamline the update process for any application or driver, focusing primarily on business applications while being accessible to a variety of apps and management tools. Traditionally, Windows Update has served to refresh core operating system components and essential drivers, but the new platform will allow developers to schedule updates based on user activity, battery status, and energy usage. Developers will also be able to connect with native Windows Update notifications, ensuring their applications appear in the update history. Microsoft will support MSIX and APPX packaged applications, as well as certain custom Win32 apps. Previous efforts to manage updates through the Microsoft Store and Windows Package Manager have seen limited adoption, raising questions about the future use of this new feature by businesses and major developers.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

Microsoft Temporarily Stops Windows 11 24H2 Update for AutoCAD 2022

Microsoft has halted the rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update for users operating AutoCAD 2022 due to a significant compatibility issue that causes the software to fail to launch. A safeguard hold (ID: 56211213) has been instituted to prevent devices with AutoCAD 2022 from receiving the update. Users are advised against manually installing the update, as it may result in AutoCAD 2022 crashing. The issue is isolated to AutoCAD 2022, while versions 2023, 2024, and 2025 are unaffected. Autodesk is investigating the issue, and users are encouraged to either postpone the update, upgrade to a newer version of AutoCAD, or roll back to Windows 11 23H2 if they have already updated. An official fix is anticipated in the near future.

AppWizard

February 9, 2025

Android’s Google Play Store bug shows repeat app updates

The Google Play Store is experiencing a bug that causes some Android users to receive repeated app update notifications for applications that are already up to date. This issue appears in the "Pending downloads" section, where affected apps show notifications for updates despite having the latest versions installed. Genuine pending updates display the update size and date, while these repeat notifications do not. Affected apps include Gboard, Google Messages, Pocket Casts, and The Athletic, which download minimal data (1 to 2 MB) without making any changes. Reports of this issue have surfaced previously, indicating it is a recurring problem, and Google has not issued an official statement regarding it.

Winsage

November 25, 2024

Windows 11 gets more adverts – and we’re not sure what’s going on with the latest ads, but they’re rather bewildering

Microsoft is increasing its promotional efforts in Windows 11 by introducing advertisements labeled as ‘suggestions’ or ‘recommendations.’ These ads encourage users to purchase titles like Call of Duty Black Ops 6 and subscribe to Microsoft 365. The notifications panel now includes a prompt for the Call of Duty Black Ops 6 Vault Edition with a ‘Buy Now’ button that links to the Microsoft Store, and another notification promotes the Microsoft Defender app, which requires a Microsoft 365 subscription for full functionality. Users can opt out of these advertisements by adjusting settings in the Settings app. However, some embedded advertisements remain unavoidable, and there is a growing trend of advertisements in both Windows 11 and Windows 10, with Microsoft encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11, often necessitating a hardware upgrade.

Tech Optimizer

November 22, 2024

Help shield yourself from cyber threats this Black Friday with up to AU$160 off Norton 360

Norton is a leading provider of antivirus software, offering a range of programs to protect devices from cybercriminals. During the Black Friday sales period, consumers can save up to AU0 on the Norton 360 cybersecurity suite, with discounts available on Standard, Deluxe, and Premium plans until December 5. Norton is ranked #2 among antivirus software packages, particularly noted for its identity theft protection. The Norton 360 suite protects PCs, Macs, phones, and tablets, with higher-tier plans covering multiple devices. The most comprehensive features are designed for Windows users, including Driver Update notifications and cloud backup. Norton is recognized as a preferred partner by TechRadar. The Norton 360 Deluxe suite includes an integrated VPN, parental controls, a robust firewall, and responsive customer support. Prices will return to original rates after the promotional period.

Tech Optimizer

November 13, 2024

SpyNote Malware Targets Android Antivirus Users

The Android Spynote malware disguises itself as a legitimate antivirus application called "Avast Mobile Security" to exploit vulnerabilities in Android systems. It requests permissions associated with antivirus apps, bypasses user restrictions, and excludes itself from battery optimization settings. Spynote simulates user gestures and displays misleading system update notifications to maintain its presence and hinder detection. Its primary target is cryptocurrency accounts, aiming to extract private keys and balance information for assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether. The malware captures user credentials, stores them on the device's SD card, and employs obfuscation and evasion techniques to complicate detection efforts. It can detect virtual environments to evade analysis and monitors system settings to resist uninstallation attempts. Spynote is distributed through phishing sites that mimic the legitimate Avast download page, hosting malicious APKs named Avastavv.apk.