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WSL containers is now generally available
Winsage
September 30, 2026

WSL containers is now generally available

WSL has introduced a new feature called WSL containers, enabling users to build, run, and deploy Linux containers on Windows. Users can access this feature by executing wsl --update or downloading the latest release from GitHub. Key capabilities include: - WSL containers CLI (PLACEHOLDER8a7e9b6f37799ba2 and PLACEHOLDERcff917ded0a54dfd) for managing Linux containers. - WSL containers API for programmatic execution of Linux containers within Windows applications. New commands and enhancements include: - PLACEHOLDER9a5ce8c0763b7886, PLACEHOLDER3ee1e1334fe287fb, PLACEHOLDER4860ddbd841eef41, PLACEHOLDERe699cb1a0eaadb6e, wslc network disconnect, and support for container health checks. - Integration of Microsoft Intune and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for security and governance in container workflows. - New settings in Intune for managing WSL container access and registry controls. Community integrations include support for VS Code dev containers and various tools for managing WSL containers. Future plans involve adding wslc compose support and improving core platform capabilities for WSL, including networking and cross-OS file performance.
Microsoft remembers Mixed Reality exists, adds basic features I bet you thought were already here
Winsage
September 21, 2026

Microsoft remembers Mixed Reality exists, adds basic features I bet you thought were already here

A recent update to Mixed Reality Link has improved the user experience for utilizing a virtual reality headset as a monitor for Windows 11 PCs. The update, version 26.9105.9070.0, allows direct access to the headset's microphone and cameras within the Windows environment. Mixed Reality Link enables the connection of up to three virtual monitors on compatible headsets, such as the Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S, supporting both wired and wireless connections. Previous versions required users to connect an external microphone, but the latest update integrates the headset's built-in microphone and camera with Windows applications.
Your Windows 11 PC is wasting RAM on 5 apps you probably don't even use
Winsage
September 14, 2026

Your Windows 11 PC is wasting RAM on 5 apps you probably don’t even use

Windows 11 has been criticized for being bloated, with several applications consuming excessive amounts of RAM without user consent. - The MSN Weather app can exceed 1GB of RAM shortly after launching, significantly impacting system memory. - The Widgets Board can consume several hundred megabytes of RAM depending on the displayed content. - Outlook, reliant on the WebView2 framework, can use hundreds of megabytes of RAM and remains active in the background, leading to unnecessary memory consumption. - Microsoft Edge often continues running in the background after being closed due to a feature called Startup Boost. - OneDrive is known for its background RAM consumption and potential memory leaks, making it advisable to uninstall for users who do not use it. Users with limited RAM should evaluate and uninstall default Windows applications that do not meet their needs to optimize performance.
Microsoft confirms Windows 11 upgrade for faster boot and 8GB RAM PCs, but shares no numbers
Winsage
September 7, 2026

Microsoft confirms Windows 11 upgrade for faster boot and 8GB RAM PCs, but shares no numbers

Microsoft announced at the IFA 2026 conference that Windows 11 will boot faster and improve performance on PCs with 8GB of RAM. The upcoming major update will enhance features like Windows Hello and include a movable taskbar, a resizable Start menu, and the option to remove Bing from Windows Search. The September 2026 Patch Tuesday update is expected to roll out these improvements. Mark Linton, Corporate Vice President of Windows & Devices at Microsoft, emphasized the company's goal of optimizing Windows 11 for 8GB RAM PCs due to rising memory costs. While 16GB of RAM has been historically recommended for optimal performance, Microsoft's focus on improving efficiency for 8GB systems aims to make technology more accessible.
Microsoft engineer says "typing code is absolutely over," and Windows 11 is already being built that way
Winsage
September 5, 2026

Microsoft engineer says “typing code is absolutely over,” and Windows 11 is already being built that way

David Fowler, an engineer with 18 years at Microsoft, claims that traditional software development methods are becoming obsolete, stating, “Typing code is absolutely over.” He has co-created technologies like SignalR and NuGet and currently leads Aspire, a toolchain for building distributed applications that emphasizes AI-driven development. CEO Satya Nadella noted that AI contributes to 20-30% of the code produced at Microsoft. While developers will still interact with code, manual typing is becoming less central, with a shift towards strategic software engineering tasks. Microsoft Research found that AI-generated suggestions in Visual Studio IntelliCode are often overlooked by developers. GitHub Copilot has evolved to autonomously perform tasks, including building Windows development environments as of February 2026. Linus Torvalds supports AI in Linux development, viewing it as a useful tool. A report from Veracode indicated that about 44% of AI-generated code contains known vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for oversight. Microsoft’s MDASH system uses AI for enhanced vulnerability assessments. Microsoft emphasizes native Windows development through the open-source WinUI 3 framework and provides resources for beginners using Copilot. Project Zenith aims to optimize Windows 11 for developers, supporting local AI-powered development. Fowler's statement signifies a transformation in developers' roles, focusing on strategic aspects rather than typing code, while the need for skilled software engineers remains essential.
These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best
Winsage
September 4, 2026

These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best

One of the main challenges when transitioning from Windows to Linux is software compatibility. Wine and its frontends allow Windows applications to run on Linux, but the ease of use varies across distributions. Zorin OS integrates Windows application support into its desktop experience, allowing users to install .exe and .msi files directly through its Windows App Support component. It simplifies the process by eliminating the need for complex commands and provides a database of popular Windows installers. Winux (Wubuntu) creates a familiar environment for Windows users but faces challenges with running Windows software, requiring additional configuration for proprietary components. Bazzite focuses on gaming, utilizing Wine-based tools for compatibility but may not cater to everyday Windows applications. Nobara, a Fedora-based distro, emphasizes gaming enhancements and shares similar limitations regarding standard Windows productivity applications. Garuda Linux is aimed at experienced users and offers flexibility with Wine and Proton support, but its complexity may not suit those looking for a simple transition. Zorin OS is identified as the most effective solution for running Windows applications on Linux, providing a manageable transition while maintaining access to necessary software.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
September 4, 2026

These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best

One of the main challenges for users transitioning from Windows to Linux is software compatibility. Linux has many applications, but users often depend on specific Windows programs. Wine and its frontends allow Windows applications to run on Linux without a virtual machine, although the ease of use varies by distribution. Zorin OS integrates Windows application support directly into its desktop experience, allowing users to install .exe and .msi files easily through its Windows App Support component. It provides a familiar workflow and recommends the best usage options for popular Windows installers. Winux (Wubuntu) aims to create a Linux environment that resembles Windows, making it easier for users to adapt. However, running Windows software can be challenging due to compatibility issues with proprietary components. Bazzite focuses on gaming, offering excellent compatibility for Windows games through Wine-based tools, but may not be ideal for users seeking to run standard Windows applications. Nobara Project, based on Fedora, enhances gaming experiences and simplifies configuration for gaming on Linux, but is not primarily designed for running Windows productivity applications. Garuda Linux caters to experienced users and gamers, leveraging Wine and Proton for compatibility but may be complex for those simply wanting to install Windows applications. Zorin OS is identified as the best choice for users needing to run Windows applications on Linux, providing a manageable transition while maintaining a familiar aesthetic.
ReactOS 0.4.16 serves '90s Windows nostalgia with fewer bugs
Winsage
September 1, 2026

ReactOS 0.4.16 serves ’90s Windows nostalgia with fewer bugs

ReactOS has released version 0.4.16, which includes a unified boot and live CD image, a graphical installer, and significant upgrades to video, audio, networking, and storage stacks. The update addresses compatibility issues with legacy software, particularly with video drivers and the kernel’s system page table entries, improving stability. A new HD audio bus driver has replaced an older implementation, and the UniATA driver has been replaced with a new ATA driver for better compatibility and boot times. Networking capabilities have improved with expanded support for adapters and asynchronous connections. A headless Server Core installation type has been introduced, and compatibility restrictions with Windows Server 2003 have been lifted. ReactOS remains in an alpha state, and version 0.4.16 is available for download.
The 5 best Linux alternatives to Windows in 2026 (that aren't Mint)
Winsage
August 28, 2026

The 5 best Linux alternatives to Windows in 2026 (that aren’t Mint)

Linux is gaining popularity due to increased privacy concerns, reduced reliance on artificial intelligence, and improved user experience. Many users are looking for alternatives to Windows that maintain ease of use, leading to the emergence of curated Linux distributions for those considering a switch. 1. Zorin OS is user-friendly, designed for Windows migrants, and features a subsystem for installing Windows applications with open-source alternatives. It offers four layouts, including one that resembles Windows. 2. MainstreamOS provides an exceptional onboarding experience, surpassing Windows, with a MacOS-like desktop and extensive customization options. It is built on Arch Linux with the Hyprland window manager. 3. stillOS features a polished interface and an Electron-based web app runtime called SWAI, allowing web applications to function like native apps. It offers multiple layout options and an atomic update feature for reliability. 4. Kubuntu combines Ubuntu's robustness with KDE Plasma's elegance, providing a visually appealing and reliable operating system with a Windows-like desktop layout and extensive customization options. 5. VanillaOS focuses on security and stability, using atomic updates and a unique installation process called ABRoot. It defaults to a GNOME desktop but can be customized with the Dash to Dock extension for a more familiar interface.
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