updates Archives

Winsage

May 26, 2026

A recent HP laptop BIOS bug is leaving high-end Windows 11 PCs stuck in an endless BitLocker recovery loop

HP laptop owners, especially those with EliteBooks, ProBooks, and ZBook workstations, are experiencing issues after a recent BIOS firmware update via Windows Update, leading to system freezes and Blue Screen of Death errors. HP has acknowledged the problem and is investigating it, noting that Microsoft’s 2023 certificates may not apply correctly during this issue. Users are advised to check the UEFICA2023Status and UEFICA2023Error registry values to assess the update process. If the UEFICA2023Status is "In Progress" for too long and UEFICA2023Error is greater than 0, the update has failed. HP recommends disabling automatic updates to avoid the problematic BIOS update and has provided a manual workaround for the BitLocker Recovery loop. Users can also revert to a stable BIOS version, though this may be challenging and may require specific hardware.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

Windows 12 at Build 2026: What to expect

Microsoft Build 2026 will occur on June 2 and 3 at the Fort Mason Center in San Francisco, featuring a keynote by CEO Satya Nadella. The event targets AI developers and enterprise teams, emphasizing a hands-on experience. In-person tickets are priced at ,099, while the keynote and select sessions will be streamed live for free. Although there is speculation about Windows 12, Microsoft has not officially confirmed its release, with reports indicating that 2027 may be the earliest for any announcement. Current initiatives include Windows K2, aimed at improving Windows 11's performance and reliability. Build 2026 is expected to cover topics such as native Windows development with WinUI 3, on-device AI capabilities, security for AI applications, and enhancements to the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). In-person attendance will be limited, and visa support is available for international attendees.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

How to Remove Microsoft Edge (Windows 10 and 11)

Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows can be complex due to its integration as a system component, especially in Windows 10 and standard Windows 11 installations. Edge may not have a straightforward Uninstall button in the Settings page, but methods exist for uninstallation, including using Edge's own installer or command-line approaches. In the EU, users may find an easier uninstall option in Settings due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). To uninstall Edge, users should check their Windows version and region, install a replacement browser beforehand, and be aware that updates might reinstall Edge. Elevated permissions are typically required for uninstallation methods. Method A involves using Edge's setup.exe in uninstall mode from its Installer directory, which is widely compatible. Method B allows for a Settings-based uninstall in certain EU Windows 11 builds influenced by DMA. Method C uses PowerShell to remove Edge partially but may not be effective on newer builds. Method D suggests disabling Edge instead of fully uninstalling it for better system stability. Advanced techniques exist but carry risks, including potential system integrity issues. Users should consider application dependencies and the likelihood of Windows updates restoring Edge. For enterprise environments, policy-based control is preferred over complete removal. The EU DMA is driving changes toward a more modular Windows architecture, allowing for greater user choice regarding browser components.

Tech Optimizer

May 26, 2026

Best Free Antivirus for Windows 10 in 2026: Top Free Protection Options

In 2026, the landscape of free antivirus tools for Windows 10 includes several options: 1. Bitdefender Antivirus Free - Offers robust protection with real-time malware detection and operates in the background. 2. Avast One (Free Antivirus) - A feature-rich option with tools for browser security and network protection. 3. TotalAV Free Antivirus - Focuses on scanning and cleanup, ideal for users who prefer on-demand scans. 4. AVG AntiVirus Free - Provides reliable everyday protection with a user-friendly interface. 5. Avira Free Security - A comprehensive package that includes multiple security tools. 6. Malwarebytes Free - Serves as a secondary scanner to catch threats that others may overlook. 7. Microsoft Defender Antivirus - Built into Windows, offering essential protection without additional installation. Key features to consider in free antivirus software include real-time malware detection, phishing defense, ransomware protection, automatic updates and scans, and a user-friendly interface. Free antivirus tools often lack advanced features found in paid versions, such as comprehensive VPN services, advanced firewall options, identity theft protection, and priority customer support. Drawbacks of free antivirus software include limited features compared to paid versions, potential intrusive advertisements, and less comprehensive customer support. Specific recommendations based on user needs include: - Bitdefender Antivirus Free for minimal interference. - Avast One for extensive features. - TotalAV Free Antivirus for users focused on system cleanup.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

No, says Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick, of course Red Dead Online isn’t a missed opportunity, the game sold 85 million copies

Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two Interactive, stated that Red Dead Online (RDO) has sold 85 million copies, which he considers a significant achievement despite the game not reaching the financial success of Grand Theft Auto Online. He emphasized that not every game needs to be a continuous live service to be successful and highlighted the value of individual gaming experiences.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

Google might soon start warning you about dead Android apps on your phone

Google is developing a feature to alert users when an app installed on their device has been removed from the Play Store. Currently, users do not receive notifications about apps that have been delisted for non-security reasons. Recent findings from an APK teardown of the Google Play Store v51.4.19 indicate that users may soon receive notifications regarding inactive or delisted apps, focusing on keeping them informed about updates. This update aims to help users declutter their devices by notifying them of apps that will no longer receive updates. The timeline for the rollout of these notifications is not yet clear.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

‘Restart Multiple Times’—Microsoft Changes Windows Next Week

Microsoft will begin the expiration of Secure Boot certificates on most PCs in June, marking the end of a 15-year period of stability. This affects all PCs manufactured before 2023. Users will likely need to perform multiple restarts during the update process, which includes pushing data into firmware and loading a new bootloader. Ignoring the Secure Boot deadline in June 2026 may lead to significant security risks, as Microsoft will stop providing essential boot updates and malware blacklists. The Windows Security App has been updated to help users monitor these changes, and users should check for warnings indicating the status of Secure Boot. It is important for Windows 10 users to ensure they are enrolled in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to avoid vulnerabilities.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

FAQ: What you need to know about expiring Windows Secure Boot certificates

Secure Boot is a security mechanism that authenticates firmware-based software through trusted certificates during the startup process of Windows, preventing unauthorized code execution. It is part of the UEFI firmware standard and was introduced in 2011 to allow only verified, signed code to run at startup. Microsoft first implemented Secure Boot certificates in 2011 as an optional feature in Windows 8, and it remained optional in Windows 10. However, it became a mandatory requirement with the launch of Windows 11 in 2021, indicating the widespread adoption of UEFI systems.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

Google Play Store could soon warn you about dead Android apps on your phone

Google is working on enhancing its notification system for app removals from the Play Store. Currently, users do not receive alerts when an app is removed for reasons other than serious security violations. The latest version of the Google Play Store (v51.4.19) contains code indicating a new feature that will notify users when an installed app has been removed, informing them that the app will no longer receive updates. Notifications will vary based on the number of affected apps, providing clear communication to users. These features are still in development and may not be guaranteed for public release.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

The Google app could soon show you videos it thinks you’d like to watch

The Google app is expected to introduce a new “Videos” tab for Android devices, which users can manually enable in a beta version. This tab will be located alongside the “Home” tab and aims to provide personalized video recommendations based on users' preferences and recent searches. The feature may include suggestions from YouTube and other platforms, enhancing multimedia offerings. The “Videos” tab is anticipated to function similarly to the existing “Images” tab, with a search bar and recommended search terms. The timeline for its rollout is currently uncertain.