Windows 11 laptops Archives

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft imposes new rules on Windows 11 laptop makers to ensure they don’t cut corners with key features of USB-C ports

Microsoft has introduced new regulations to standardize USB-C ports on Windows 11 laptops, ensuring that all ports provide essential functionalities: display support, PC charging support, and data transfer. The updated Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) mandates that every USB-C port must adhere to a minimum standard of functionality, allowing users to connect external monitors, charge devices, and transfer data efficiently. Ports supporting USB 40Gbps will also be compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals. These requirements are effective with the release of Windows 11 24H2. While the regulations establish a baseline, variations in specifications such as supported displays, power delivery capacity, and data transfer speeds may still exist and should be detailed in laptop specifications.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft fights USB-C chaos on Windows 11 laptops with new label

Microsoft will enforce standardized USB-C specifications for Windows 11 laptops starting with the 24H2 update, requiring PC manufacturers to adhere to these guidelines. USB-C ports must support data transfer rates of 40 Gbps or 80 Gbps and be compatible with Thunderbolt 3, providing a minimum charging power of 15 watts (7.5 watts for tablets). Additionally, USB-C ports must support USB Power Delivery, PCIe tunneling, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and dual 4K@60Hz monitors. For USB3, ports must facilitate data transfer at rates of 5 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or 20 Gbps, with charging capabilities ranging from 4.5 to 15 watts. Manufacturers must test devices using Microsoft's Windows Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) to earn WHCP certification.

Winsage

May 23, 2025

Windows 10 Support Is Ending: Flipkart says it’s time to upgrade to a Windows 11 PC

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning users will no longer receive updates, security patches, or new features. Flipkart is offering exclusive exchange discounts for customers trading in old Windows 10 laptops for select Windows 11 models. Windows 11 provides faster performance, longer battery life, and enhanced security features compared to Windows 10. Copilot+ PCs, which run Windows 11, include integrated AI features and improved battery life, catering to designers, students, and professionals.

Winsage

April 8, 2025

How to check apps draining the most battery on Windows 11

Users experiencing rapid battery drain on Windows 11 laptops may find that certain applications are consuming excessive energy. To identify and mitigate the impact of these power-hungry apps, users can take several steps: 1. Change Power Mode: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Power Mode and select "Best Power Efficiency." 2. Enable Energy Saver: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Energy Saver and either turn on the "Always use energy saver" toggle or set a battery level to activate it automatically. 3. Energy Recommendations: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Energy Recommendations and apply individual or all suggested changes. 4. Restrict Background Permissions: - Open Settings > System > Power & battery. - Click on Battery usage, analyze app usage, select the app, and manage background activity by choosing "Never" under background app permissions. 5. Uninstall App: - Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps. - Select the app to uninstall and follow the instructions. These actions can help optimize battery life on Windows 11 laptops.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Chrome failed to install on Windows PCs, but Google has issued a fix

Several Reddit users have reported difficulties installing Google Chrome on Windows PCs, a problem also experienced by the Laptop Mag team on multiple Windows 11 laptops. Users noted that the direct download from Google was problematic, while a workaround using the installer from ninite.com was successful. Issues were reported on both Windows 10 and 11, with speculation about a glitch in the latest installer release. Google acknowledged the issue and confirmed a fix had been implemented, allowing successful installations afterward. A step-by-step guide for resolving the installation hurdle was provided, recommending the use of an offline installer named “ChromeStandAloneSetup64.”

Winsage

December 26, 2024

Got a new laptop with Windows 11 in S Mode? Let’s break down what that means (and how to switch it off if it’s not for you)

Many Windows 11 laptops come preinstalled with Windows 11 in S mode, which restricts app installations to those available in the Microsoft Store to enhance security and efficiency. S mode is beneficial for families and less tech-savvy users as it prevents downloading unverified applications and continues to provide security features like Windows Defender and Windows Hello. To switch off S mode, users need a stable internet connection and an active Microsoft account. The process involves opening the Settings app, navigating to the System page, and selecting the Activation category to switch to Windows 11 Home or Pro. After confirming the choice in the Microsoft Store, users can verify the transition by attempting to download a non-Microsoft browser.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Windows 11 laptops are getting an improved battery indicator

Microsoft is introducing a revamped battery indicator for Windows 11 laptops as part of Build 26120.2510, currently available only to Insiders on the Dev Channel. The new battery indicator features a larger, more vibrant design, displaying a green hue when charging and yellow when Power Saving Mode is activated. Currently, this design is visible in the taskbar, while the traditional icon remains on the lock screen. The updated design is expected to be available on the lock screen after testing. The build also includes enhanced experiences for Copilot+ on AMD and Intel hardware.

Winsage

November 21, 2024

Meta Quest 3 will get better Windows support in December

Microsoft will introduce Windows in mixed reality in December, allowing users to access Windows 11 on Meta's Quest 3 and Quest 3S headsets. This feature enables seamless connection to local Windows PCs or Windows 365 Cloud PCs, with public preview starting next month. The integration was first announced at Meta Connect 2022, and while Windows will not run directly on the headset, it will be streamed from a local PC or cloud. Meta recently showcased a feature that extends Windows 11 laptop screens to digital displays on Quest headsets. Initially, the preview will support only Quest 3 and Quest 3S, with potential future compatibility for more headsets.

Winsage

October 2, 2024

Microsoft-paid study shows Windows 11 is just way too fast compared to Windows 10

Microsoft has provided details about the Windows 11 upgrade and its compatibility with office PCs, along with enhancements in Windows 11 2024 LTSC. A study by Principled Technologies indicates that Windows 11 generally outperforms Windows 10, showing improvements in battery life, system responsiveness, and overall performance. Mainstream laptop users can expect extended battery life, quicker task completion, efficient operation of demanding applications, and activation of the VBS feature without significant performance loss. The study reported a minimum performance advantage of 18.8% for Windows 11, with some cases showing a lead of 246.2%. However, comparisons made in the study raised questions about validity due to differences in the devices tested.

Winsage

September 26, 2024

Quests Can Soon Extend Windows Laptops By Just Looking At Them

Quest headsets will enhance the functionality of Windows 11 laptops later this year through a collaboration between Meta and Microsoft, allowing users to extend their laptop screens by simply looking at them without needing software installation. The feature will utilize Windows 11's remote desktop capabilities, enabling Horizon OS to connect directly to the PC, resulting in a virtual display that replicates the laptop's screen and allows for multiple virtual monitors. Currently, Meta offers similar functionalities through its Remote Display and Horizon Workrooms apps, as well as third-party applications like Virtual Desktop and Immersed. The Meta-Microsoft partnership distinguishes itself by not requiring users to launch an app or install new software. The user experience is inspired by Apple’s visionOS, but it is unclear if a home Wi-Fi network will be necessary for operation.