waste

Winsage
December 27, 2024
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, meaning it will no longer receive free security updates. To upgrade to Windows 11, a computer must support TPM 2.0, which many older devices lack. A report indicates that about one in five computers could be left behind due to this requirement, particularly those purchased before 2021. Users should check if their device supports TPM 2.0 and consider budgeting for a new computer if it does not.
AppWizard
December 18, 2024
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in over 80 percent of the region being destroyed, according to Palestinian and UN estimates. Oman has reportedly sent a shipment of Nintendo Switch consoles to Gaza, which includes the latest edition of Minecraft with customized Omani warriors. This shipment is intended to provide Minecraft credits for Palestinians to "rebuild Gaza" digitally. However, there is uncertainty about whether the Israeli army will allow the shipment into Gaza. Local sources emphasize the importance of such games for coping with psychological stress and envisioning reconstruction. Historically, Palestinians have used Minecraft creatively, such as in 2017 to design public spaces after previous conflicts. Ahmed Ghalib, a structural engineer, noted the need for skilled engineers for meaningful reconstruction efforts, while Ghada Zourob criticized the shipment as inadequate for addressing the urgent needs of Gazans. Since October 7, 2023, Israeli military operations have intensified, resulting in over 45,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 107,000 injuries, according to the Palestinian health ministry.
Winsage
December 12, 2024
Windows PCs, particularly newer laptop models, have improved battery performance, but users often experience reduced battery life over time. A three-year-old Windows laptop may drop from six to seven hours of screen time to struggling to reach three hours. Software adjustments can help maximize battery life. 1. Lowering screen brightness to around 30-40% can extend battery life. 2. The Battery Saver option in Windows 11 can be manually enabled to disable power-hungry activities. 3. Reducing display and sleep timeout settings can conserve energy. 4. Disabling unnecessary startup applications can save battery resources. 5. Turning off animation effects can improve battery life, especially on older devices. 6. Shutting down the laptop instead of just closing the lid can prevent unexpected battery drain. 7. Changing the power mode from Balanced to Best power efficiency can significantly extend battery life.
Winsage
December 9, 2024
Microsoft will end free security updates for Windows 10 in October, prompting concerns among users about the need to purchase new devices, especially as the company promotes Windows 11. Users have expressed frustration over "programmed obsolescence," which forces consumers to buy new models more frequently. The financial impact of planned obsolescence can reach approximately ,000 over a consumer's lifetime, contributing to significant environmental issues, including the generation of over 68 million tons of e-waste in 2022, with only 22% recycled properly. Some users are considering alternatives like Linux to avoid the costs of new computers. Companies like Staples and Redwood Materials offer recycling programs for e-waste.
Winsage
December 8, 2024
Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11 PCs. Windows 11 offers enhanced security, improved productivity, and advanced features. It is designed for exceptional performance with powerful processors, rapid storage, high-speed memory, and stunning displays. On Copilot+ PCs, Windows 11 operates up to five times faster than five-year-old Windows machines and provides extended battery life. Microsoft aims for zero waste by 2023, promoting energy efficiency and recycling programs. Currys, as the UK's largest tech recycler, collects and recycles around 60,000 tonnes of outdated technology annually. Currys offers a diverse selection of Windows 11 PCs suitable for various needs and budgets.
Winsage
December 7, 2024
Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025. It once had over a billion users and still holds over half of the market share. Users face vulnerabilities without security updates post-deadline, and about one in five laptops may not be compatible with Windows 11. Alternatives to Windows 11 include open-source operating systems like Linux and Google's OS Flex. Remanufacturing as a Service (RaaS) offers a sustainable option for extending IT infrastructure lifespan, with remanufactured laptops being up to 70% less expensive and reducing carbon emissions by approximately 316 kg per laptop. Microsoft has announced a one-year security update extension for Windows 10 users at a cost of £23. The end of Windows 10 coincides with International E-waste Day, presenting an opportunity for businesses to adopt more sustainable practices.
Winsage
December 5, 2024
Microsoft has announced stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11, mandating TPM 2.0, which has barred many older systems from upgrading. This decision creates a divide between modern and outdated hardware and raises concerns for Windows 10 users, as support for that operating system will end in October 2025. Windows 11 has a slower adoption rate, with Windows 10 holding a 61.8% market share compared to Windows 11's 34.9%. The transition may result in approximately 240 million PCs being discarded, raising sustainability concerns. Microsoft is expected to increase promotions for Windows 11 within the Windows 10 interface to encourage upgrades.
Winsage
December 2, 2024
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ceasing free updates, technical support, and security fixes. Canalys estimates that this decision could lead to 240 million PCs becoming obsolete, which is one-fifth of all computers globally. The environmental impact of disposing of these computers in landfills includes the release of heavy metals and a potential carbon footprint of 158 million metric tons of CO2e emissions if all 240 million PCs are replaced. Linux distributions can provide alternatives for older machines, allowing them to continue functioning.
Winsage
November 21, 2024
Windows 10 users are receiving advertisements encouraging them to upgrade to Windows 11 and consider purchasing a new device called a Copilot+ PC. This marketing strategy includes full-screen ads and reminders that support for Windows 10 will end in 2025. Microsoft is promoting Copilot+ PCs for their exclusive AI features, positioning them as the best option for utilizing Windows 11. The frequency of upgrade notifications is expected to increase as the support deadline approaches. Many users may need to replace their older PCs due to hardware incompatibilities with Windows 11, raising concerns about environmental waste. Microsoft has offered an option for extended support for Windows 10 for one additional year, pushing the end date to October 2026.
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