Windows 11 Archives

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Windows 12 could arrive this year with rumored heavy AI focus — and the hate is strong already

Windows 12 is speculated to launch as early as late 2026, coinciding with the expiration of extended support for Windows 10. Rumors suggest it may feature a modular structure, allowing user customization, and will integrate artificial intelligence as a core component. Community reactions have been largely critical, particularly regarding the potential for a subscription model for AI features. There are doubts about whether Microsoft can effectively launch a new version while addressing issues in Windows 11. Additionally, the next iteration may not be called Windows 12, with possibilities of names like Windows AI or Windows Copilot to reflect its AI focus.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Bitwarden now lets users log into Windows 11 using passkeys

Bitwarden has introduced a feature that allows Windows 11 users to log in using passkeys stored in their vaults, enhancing security by enabling phishing-resistant authentication at the operating system's login screen. Users can authenticate by scanning a QR code displayed on the Windows screen with the Bitwarden app on their mobile device, which verifies access to the stored passkey. This feature requires the Windows device to be joined to Microsoft Entra ID and for the organization to enable FIDO2 security key sign-in. Users must also register a passkey for their Entra ID profile stored in Bitwarden. The integration aims to improve security against cyber attacks targeting operating system authentication. Microsoft plans to roll out this passkey-based Windows login feature in March, depending on the organization's Microsoft Entra ID configuration, and it will be available across all Bitwarden plans, including the free tier.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Microsoft is fundamentally redesigning NVMe drivers for Windows; initial tests show significant performance shifts

Microsoft is developing a new NVMe storage driver for Windows 11 25H2 and Windows Server 2025, moving away from the existing storNVMe.sys driver to better align with modern I/O mechanisms. This new driver utilizes the IoRing framework to enhance efficiency by allowing the processor to manage multiple storage requests simultaneously, reducing latency and administrative overhead. Initial tests show significant performance improvements in random read accesses, particularly benefiting applications like databases and virtualization systems. However, sequential access performance may be lower due to ongoing optimizations. The new driver is currently in preview and not activated by default, with practical use limited until further refinements are made.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

I tested Windows 11 LTSC in 2026, and it’s the best version of Windows 11 without Copilot, AI and other bloat

Windows 11 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) is a specialized edition of Windows 11 designed for organizations that prioritize stability over the latest features. It allows users to defer feature updates for up to ten years, receiving only monthly quality updates and optional feature updates every three years. LTSC includes only Microsoft Edge as a modern app, with classic versions of Calculator, Notepad, and Paint, and lacks Copilot integration, the Microsoft Store, and Widgets. Users can operate LTSC without signing into a Microsoft account. The version was officially announced in April 2023, with Enterprise and IoT editions set to launch in late 2024. It is suitable for large organizations, industrial systems, IT departments, and IoT devices needing long-term support. General users can download a 90-day trial of LTSC, but a clean installation is required for transitioning from Windows 11 Pro or Home. The minimum system requirements include a 1 GHz processor, 4 GB RAM, and 64 GB storage. LTSC offers advantages such as no bloatware, a stable environment, and a lower storage footprint, but it does not receive new Windows features and lacks access to the Microsoft Store by default.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 updates are “deleting the internet” for many: Possible fixes explored

A critical bug in Windows 11 builds 24H2 and 25H2 is causing users with Ethernet connections to lose internet access after installing updates KB5066835 and KB5065789. Users have reported issues on Microsoft’s Q&A forums, and rolling back the operating system is recommended. Possible fixes include performing a full network reset, flushing DNS and resetting TCP/IP via Command Prompt, editing the registry, and using hardware bypass solutions like USB-to-Ethernet or USB-to-WiFi adapters.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Windows 10: WinRE Update KB5075039 fixes issue from Oct. 2025

On March 3, 2026, Microsoft re-released update KB5075039 to restore functionality to the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for Windows 10, which officially fell out of support in October 2025. This update followed a bug caused by dynamic security update KB5067039, released in October 2025, which introduced a problematic USBHUB3.SYS driver version that disabled USB keyboards and mice in WinRE. Microsoft acknowledged this issue on October 17, 2025. In mid-January 2026, Microsoft released recovery updates for Windows 10 and Windows 11, including KB5075039 on January 15, 2026, targeting Windows 10 versions 21H2 and 22H2, but it did not resolve the issue. The re-release of update KB5073933 on March 3, 2026, addressed a critical bug preventing WinRE from starting when the previous update KB5068164 was installed. The installation of KB5073933 is recommended for Windows 10 22H2 users with ESU support to ensure a functional recovery environment.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

Microsoft is Testing Web Integration in Copilot on Windows 11

Microsoft is rolling out a new feature for the Copilot app on Windows 11 that integrates web browsing directly within the app, allowing users to open links in a side pane next to their conversation. This update ensures that Microsoft Edge is the default browser for these interactions and requests permission to access content from any web tabs opened during a conversation. Tabs opened will be saved for future reference, and users can sync passwords and form data. The update also includes new features from Copilot.com, such as Podcasts and Study and Learn mode, while some features have been temporarily removed but will be reinstated before the general release. Performance and reliability improvements are also included in Copilot app version 146.0.3856.39.

Winsage

March 4, 2026

Windows 12 won’t be released in 2026, despite rumours

There are no plans to release Windows 12 this year, according to sources familiar with Microsoft's roadmap. The focus is on enhancing Windows 11, addressing user feedback, and improving its reputation. Claims about Windows 12, codenamed Hudson Valley Next, and its features, including a modular CorePC architecture and deep AI integration, have been refuted. CorePC was a project from 2023 that aimed to revive the WCOS vision but is likely scrapped. The codename Hudson Valley is unrelated to Windows 12, and speculations about a redesigned interface and subscription model lack official backing. Zac Bowden from Windows Central suggests that if Windows 12 is released, it won't be before 2027. Windows 11 has recently reached a record high market share as support for Windows 10 ends.

Winsage

March 4, 2026

Windows XP “Bliss” has been remixed for 2026 — here’s how to download it.

Windows XP's "Bliss" wallpaper, photographed by Charles O'Rear, was made the default wallpaper for Windows XP after Microsoft secured the rights in 2000. The default wallpaper for Windows 11, called Bloom, was created by the design studio Six N. Five. A Reddit user, Left_Hovercraft451, combined the Bliss image with the Windows 11 wallpaper, reflecting a desire for more personalized desktop aesthetics as we approach 2026. The rise of AI tools has sparked debates about ownership and originality in art, particularly regarding AI-generated content inspired by specific photographs.

AppWizard

March 4, 2026

Esoteric Ebb Review

Esoteric Ebb is a role-playing game inspired by Disco Elysium, focusing on exploration rather than combat, and features a narrative rich in literary and political themes. The game blends narrative depth with mechanics similar to Dungeons & Dragons. - Price: £21 - Release Date: March 3, 2026 - Developer: Christoffer Bodegård - Publisher: Raw Fury - Reviewed on: Steam Deck, Windows 11 (Core i5 12600K, RX 9070 XT, 32GB RAM) - Steam Deck: Verified - Official site link available Gameplay includes strategic challenges, such as an early ambush by an assassin where players can use spells creatively. Some minor complaints include a cluttered user interface on the Steam Deck, cumbersome inventory management, typographic errors, and occasional UI glitches. There are also reports of bugged feats affecting gameplay. Despite these issues, the game is considered compelling for RPG enthusiasts and offers good value for its price.