Windows 11 builds Archives

Winsage

April 8, 2025

Back to basics: Microsoft tests overhauled Start menu in Windows 11 beta builds

Microsoft has introduced a feature called "taskbar icon scaling" in a recent beta build of Windows 11, allowing users to reduce the size of taskbar icons to fit more pinned or open applications. This feature is currently being tested in the Windows Insider Beta channel and is expected to be available in the public version of Windows 11 soon. Additionally, changes to the Start menu may be revealed in an upcoming preview build, although there is no guarantee they will be activated.

Winsage

March 31, 2025

Microsoft’s iconic Blue Screen of Death might change, and its replacement looks even more depressing

Microsoft has redesigned the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), which has been part of the Windows operating system since 1990. The new version features a black screen instead of the traditional blue, with a simplified message stating, "Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart." This update is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders, and during testing phases, the screen will appear green. The redesign aims to create a more user-friendly experience, but some users find it more intimidating and confusing due to its resemblance to the Windows update screen. The updated BSOD is available to users running the 24H2 version or newer, with plans for a broader release in the coming weeks.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Windows 11 update breaks Veeam recovery, causes connection errors

Microsoft and Veeam are addressing connection errors affecting users of Windows 11 24H2 systems, particularly those restoring data with Veeam Recovery Media on builds 26100.3194 and higher. The errors occur when attempting to restore files from a Veeam Backup & Replication server or SMB network share, with messages indicating network connection failures and issues with the Local Security Authority. Veeam suggests using Recovery Media from older Windows 11 builds (26100.3037 or lower) as a temporary solution. Veeam clarified that they cannot provide pre-generated Recovery Media images due to proprietary components. Over 550,000 customers use Veeam products, including 82% of Fortune 500 companies. In February, Microsoft also addressed issues related to the KB5051987 update that affected Outlook functionalities on Windows 24H2 systems.

BetaBeacon

March 25, 2025

How to play Android games on your PC

Google Play Games for Windows allows users to play hundreds of Android games on a Windows PC running Windows 10 or later, as long as the computer has a solid state drive (SSD) as its boot drive and Virtualization support enabled in the BIOS settings. The app offers keyboard and mouse support for all games on the list.

Winsage

March 9, 2025

Microsoft Weekly: Copilot updates, PowerToys updates, new Windows 11 builds, and more.

Windows 11 24H2 is experiencing performance throttling issues when applications are minimized, but the 0x80131500 Store error has been fixed. Windows 10 has regained its status as the most popular operating system on Steam, according to Valve's February 2025 survey. Microsoft has launched a native Copilot app for Windows 11 and 10 in the Insider program, featuring a XAML-based interface. PowerToys has been updated to version 0.89, enhancing tools like Advanced Paste and FancyZones. Microsoft Edge 134 has been released with improved Teams link handling, while Firefox 136 introduces vertical tabs and HEVC support for Linux users. Microsoft will discontinue Publisher in 2024 and has launched a support page for alternatives. The Xiaomi 15 smartphone received positive reviews for its build quality and fast-charging, while AMD's RX 9070 XT graphics card received a perfect score for performance. Upcoming Game Pass titles include Monster Train and Galacticare, and Amazon Prime Gaming is offering 20 PC games this month. A remake of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 and 4 is set to release on July 11.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

No word on Windows 12 from Microsoft, a concept design simulates every avid enthusiast’s vision board for Windows 11’s successor, including Windows AI

A concept designer has presented a vision for Microsoft's upcoming Windows 12 operating system, featuring a centered taskbar, a streamlined Start menu, and enhanced user experience. The design includes integration of Windows AI for text and image inputs, a floating bar for Start and Search functionalities, and a more functional Start menu. The aesthetics reflect a minimalistic approach similar to Windows 11, with rounded corners and floating widgets. The revamped Settings app aims to simplify navigation. The concept suggests a potential rebranding of existing AI features under "Windows Intelligence." The emphasis on generative AI indicates its significant role in the future of the Windows operating system.

Winsage

November 29, 2024

This bold Windows 12 Lite concept video imagines a new direction for Microsoft’s OS

Microsoft has previously attempted to launch lighter versions of its Windows operating system, but these efforts have often been discontinued. A concept designer named AR4789 has created a video for the Windows 12 Lite concept, which emphasizes aesthetic changes rather than technical improvements. The concept features a bottom taskbar for applications and a separate floating taskbar for system icons and the Start menu, resembling the macOS Menu bar. It retains rounded corners for windows and reintroduces a tiled Start menu, which was removed in Windows 11. The Windows Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) is also envisioned to be revamped while keeping familiar elements. There has been no official announcement from Microsoft about Windows 12, but speculation suggests that the company may have been preparing for its release this year, although the focus has shifted to the rollout of Windows 11 24H2.

Winsage

November 12, 2024

Clues to Windows Intelligence found in Windows 11 builds

Microsoft is expected to rebrand its AI features as "Windows Intelligence," although official confirmation is still pending. A placeholder page for Windows Intelligence was found in a Windows 24H2 build. This rebranding aims to create a cohesive framework for managing AI technologies across Microsoft's platform. Microsoft has previously used the term "Windows Intelligence" for security updates, which are delivered through Windows Update. The new branding will encompass AI-related features beyond security. The initiative follows similar branding strategies by Apple, although "Windows Intelligence" may not be easily abbreviated like "Apple Intelligence." Microsoft has integrated AI technology into various applications, including updates to Copilot and generative AI capabilities in Notepad and Paint.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

How to prepare for Windows 10 end of support by moving to Windows 11 today

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and is encouraging users to transition to Windows 11. Key points include the advantages of upgrading, eligibility assessment for current PCs, resources for acquiring new PCs, and details on Extended Security Updates (ESU). Windows 11 features enhanced security with a 62% reduction in security incidents, improved performance, multitasking tools, accessibility enhancements, energy efficiency, and AI integration. The operating system includes hardware-based protections and advanced authentication methods, such as the Microsoft Pluton Security Processor and Smart App Control. Users can check their upgrade eligibility through Windows Update and may need a new PC for full benefits. Microsoft offers resources for data transfer and synchronization. The ESU program will provide critical security updates for those needing more time to transition. Windows 11 is designed to support organizations, promising a 250% return on investment and improved device management.

Winsage

October 25, 2024

Microsoft Drops New Windows 11 Builds on the Dev and Beta Channels

Microsoft has released two new Insider builds for Windows 11 for testers on the Dev and Beta Channels. The Dev build 26120.2200 introduces a new icon in the system tray for applications using Windows Studio Effects, allowing users to access the Studio Effects page in Quick Settings. It also enhances the Dynamic Lighting feature with new directional options for the Wave and Gradient effects. The Beta build 22635.4435 includes similar Dynamic Lighting updates and reinstates the ability to configure the Copilot key to launch applications other than Copilot itself. These updates will be rolled out gradually to Insiders.