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France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here's why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026
Winsage
April 18, 2026

France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here’s why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026

Dissatisfaction with Windows 11 is widespread, prompting the French government to transition from Windows to Linux for its computer systems, aiming for 'digital sovereignty.' French officials, including Minister David Amiel, emphasize the need to reduce reliance on American tools and regain control over digital infrastructure. The transition is mandated to be completed by fall 2026, with GendBuntu, a variant of Ubuntu, likely being adopted. Over 100,000 PCs currently run GendBuntu, and an additional 2.5 million government workstations will migrate from Windows. Other regions, such as Schleswig-Holstein in Germany and Denmark, are also moving away from Windows. Users have reported issues with Windows 11, leading to a backlash and prompting Microsoft to promise fixes. However, the effectiveness of these improvements remains uncertain, and if unresolved, users may increasingly consider alternatives like Linux or macOS. Microsoft has revamped its Windows Insider program to gather user feedback but lacks clarity on internal quality assurance improvements. The company's ability to regain user trust hinges on addressing ongoing concerns effectively.
Steam Giving Away 4 PC Games for Free
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Steam Giving Away 4 PC Games for Free

Steam is currently offering four PC games for free until specific dates: 1. Legend of Keepers: Career of a Dungeon Manager - Free until April 23, 2021 release, 76% approval rating from 1,584 reviews, playable on Steam Deck. 2. Uncanny Tales: Cold Road - Free until April 20, 2025 release, 62% approval rating from over 100 reviews. 3. Stickman: Killing Zombie - Free until April 19, 2024 release, 92% approval rating, limited reviews. 4. NineHells - Free until April 20, 2024 release, no established user score due to insufficient reviews. Only Legend of Keepers is confirmed as playable on the Steam Deck.
Microsoft is reportedly giving you a ton of Start menu customization options
Winsage
April 18, 2026

Microsoft is reportedly giving you a ton of Start menu customization options

Microsoft is enhancing the Windows 11 Start menu by introducing customization options that allow users to select between a larger or smaller layout. Users will also be able to edit or remove sections within the Start menu, such as the Recommended section. Additionally, Microsoft aims to improve the responsiveness of the Start menu for better performance during multitasking. There is no official timeline for the rollout of these features.
This free app can get your Android phone to run PC games better than ever
AppWizard
April 15, 2026

This free app can get your Android phone to run PC games better than ever

Winlator v11.0 is a free Windows-on-Android emulator that allows Android devices to run Windows PC games locally without cloud streaming or subscription fees. The update features significant enhancements in GPU performance, particularly for Adreno 8-series GPUs, improving graphics and reducing crashes for demanding titles on devices with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite. It introduces an experimental OpenGL wrapper called Gladio to extend compatibility to MediaTek and Exynos chips with Mali GPUs. The update also includes Wine 10.10 and Box64 v0.4.0, which enhance the operation of Windows software on mobile processors, promising faster load times and improved stability for 64-bit applications. Initial user feedback indicates remarkable performance improvements over previous versions and other emulators.
I’m wondering how far the Windows 11 modding community will go before Microsoft finally listens
Winsage
April 14, 2026

I’m wondering how far the Windows 11 modding community will go before Microsoft finally listens

Windows 11, launched over four years ago, has faced user dissatisfaction due to its limited features and stringent hardware requirements, leading to sluggish adoption rates. Some users are considering switching to free alternatives like Linux. In response to criticism, Microsoft is rolling out updates to improve user experience, including allowing users to bypass updates during installations and reintroducing features like a movable Taskbar. Despite these efforts, some experts suggest that Microsoft should focus on developing "Windows 12" instead. The backlash against Windows 11 has led to a rise in third-party tools and modifications, such as Start11 and Rainmeter skins, which enhance personalization and functionality. Social media platforms showcase the popularity of these third-party solutions, indicating a thriving community-driven innovation in response to the operating system's limitations.
The Windows 11 customization scene is thriving because Microsoft won't give users what they want
Winsage
April 14, 2026

The Windows 11 customization scene is thriving because Microsoft won’t give users what they want

Windows 11 initially faced criticism for its limited features and slower adoption rate due to stringent hardware requirements. Microsoft has encouraged users to transition from Windows 10, which is no longer supported, to ensure they receive updates and security patches. In response to user feedback, Microsoft has begun implementing changes, such as allowing users to bypass updates during setup and reintroducing features like a movable Taskbar. Despite these efforts, many users feel that Windows 11 has reduced personalization options, leading to the development of third-party tools and mods to restore removed features. Notable third-party products include Start11 for the Start menu and various skins available on platforms like Reddit and X. The Rainmeter Windows 12 skin has gained popularity, offering a futuristic look for Windows 11.
Want to pause Windows 11 updates for as long as you want? Your wish could soon come true
Winsage
April 13, 2026

Want to pause Windows 11 updates for as long as you want? Your wish could soon come true

Microsoft is introducing new update management features for Windows 11, allowing users to pause updates more easily. A preview build reveals an option to pause updates through a Windows configuration tool. Currently, Windows 11 Home users can pause updates for up to five weeks, while Pro users have a more complex process for extended pauses. The upcoming changes aim to provide Home users with longer and simpler pause options, addressing concerns about disruptions from updates. Users will have the discretion to delay updates while balancing the need for timely security patches.
Windows 11 Overhaul: Microsoft's 7-Point Plan to Catch Up with Apple's macOS
Winsage
April 13, 2026

Windows 11 Overhaul: Microsoft’s 7-Point Plan to Catch Up with Apple’s macOS

Microsoft is implementing a seven-point plan to transform Windows 11, addressing user feedback and enhancing competitiveness against Apple's macOS. The plan includes reducing advertisements, improving performance and resource management, and giving users more control over system updates. This initiative responds to user dissatisfaction with Windows 11's design and functionality. The rollout of the plan is expected in the coming months as Microsoft aims to regain its position in the market, particularly in light of the popularity of Apple's MacBook Neo.
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