Windows laptops Archives

Winsage

September 7, 2025

I tested 8 File Explorer alternatives, but this is the one that stuck

File Pilot is a file manager for Windows 11 that offers a modern interface, impressive speed, and enhanced productivity features compared to the built-in File Explorer. It is currently available for free in its beta phase, but a fee will be required for the final version. The application allows extensive customization with multiple tabs and panes, has a responsive search bar, and provides real-time feedback during bulk renaming. However, it does not have a version optimized for Arm PCs. The final version will cost for one year of updates or for lifetime updates and priority support, with a 20% discount available during the beta phase.

Winsage

September 4, 2025

Windows 10 is being phased out—is a tablet now the better choice?

The text discusses the growing relevance of tablets as alternatives to traditional laptops in personal computing, especially with the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Tablets are suitable for various users, including those with a primary PC, students, frequent travelers, casual users, and those avoiding Windows 11. Modern tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, OnePlus Pad 3, and Lenovo Tab P12, offer portability, long battery life, and compatibility with accessories like keyboards and styluses. They can perform everyday tasks effectively, often with apps optimized for tablet use. Tablets also provide a less complex user experience compared to Windows 11, which has stringent hardware requirements. The Galaxy Tab S9 features an 11-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 8 GB RAM, and 8,400 mAh battery. The OnePlus Pad 3 has a 13.2-inch LCD, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and 12,140 mAh battery. The Lenovo Tab P12 offers a 12.7-inch display, MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, and 10,200 mAh battery.

Winsage

August 30, 2025

RIP Mobile Plans app — Microsoft is shutting it down in 2026

Microsoft will retire the Mobile Plans app on February 27, 2026, directing users to manage cellular plans through a web browser instead. The app will remain functional for managing eSIM data plans, but adjustments will require visiting the provider's website. Windows 11 users can activate eSIMs via QR codes or manual entry, with a new feature in testing that may simplify this process. Many Windows laptops, including Microsoft's Surface Pro 11, offer 5G or 4G LTE options. An eSIM integrates SIM functionality into the device, eliminating the need for a physical card and allowing easier carrier switching. Laptops can connect through 5G or 4G LTE networks, with 5G providing enhanced speeds and lower latency.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ends Soon. Here Are Your Best Options if You Can’t Upgrade

Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning users will no longer receive bug fixes, technical support, or security updates. Extended security updates (ESU) will be available for a fee, primarily aimed at businesses and educational institutions, with a consumer version available for one year. Users can also consider alternative operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Microsoft suggests cloud solutions like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop for those unable to upgrade their devices. Some users are opting for third-party security software, such as the 0patch agent, to address security risks associated with using Windows 10 post-support. There are methods to bypass Windows 11 upgrade compatibility checks using tools like Rufus or Registry Editor modifications.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

HP’s OmniBook X Flip deal is kinda wild rn

The HP 14-inch OmniBook X Flip is priced at 9.99 at Best Buy, currently discounted by 0, representing a 33% reduction from its regular price. It features an AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 CPU, Radeon 860M integrated graphics, and a 14-inch 1200p touch display. The laptop has received a four-star rating and a Recommended Award from Windows Central. Best Buy offers membership programs, My Best Buy Plus and Total, which provide rewards and perks for purchases, including a bonus reward for every 0 spent on a new Windows laptop. My Best Buy Plus costs .99 annually, while My Best Buy Total is 9.99 per year.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

“Browse Securely Now”: Microsoft Stock (NASDAQ:MSFT) Gains as it Calls Users to Pass Up Chrome

Microsoft is encouraging users to switch from Google’s Chrome browser to its Edge browser by displaying messages that promote Edge's security features. This strategy has resulted in a slight increase in Microsoft's stock price. Users installing Chrome now see a message stating, “Browse securely now. Microsoft Edge runs on the same technology as Chrome, with the added trust of Microsoft.” Additionally, pre-release versions of Microsoft’s Canary browser include taskbar flags that prompt users to pin Edge when closing Chrome, with one flag suggesting to pin Edge if Chrome usage exceeds 90%. A class action lawsuit is pending against Microsoft for withdrawing security support for Windows 10. Despite challenges in Windows support, Microsoft has confirmed ongoing support for popular games like Forza Motorsport and Forza Horizon 5. Analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating for MSFT stock, with 34 Buy ratings and one Hold in the past three months, and an average price target suggesting an 18% upside potential for investors.

Winsage

August 10, 2025

Windows 10 will die this fall — here’s how to survive

Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025, but users will not lose access to their systems immediately. Microsoft is launching an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, allowing users to receive critical security updates until October 13, 2026, for a fee. Individual users can also access these updates for free by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or by backing up their data using the Windows Backup app and storing it on OneDrive. To upgrade to Windows 11, users should check their PC's compatibility with the PC Health Check app and back up their files before proceeding with the upgrade through the Windows Update app. If a PC does not meet the upgrade requirements, users may need to consider purchasing a new device.

Winsage

July 25, 2025

Find forgotten Wi-Fi passwords, SSIDs in Windows and Android

Windows laptops can retrieve the Wi-Fi password for the current network by searching for "View Network Connections," right-clicking the active connection, selecting Status, and then clicking on Wireless Properties to view the password under the Security tab. For older networks, users can open a command prompt and type "netsh wlan show profile" to see saved Wi-Fi profiles, then use "netsh wlan show profile [NETWORK NAME] key=clear" to reveal the password in plain text. On Android devices, users can view stored Wi-Fi SSIDs and passwords by accessing the quick settings menu, tapping the current network name for the password, or navigating to Saved networks for other networks. Verification may be required to share the password, which can be displayed alongside a QR code for easy sharing.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

New Windows 11 trick will improve your Galaxy Book’s battery life

Microsoft is testing a new feature called Adaptive Battery Saver Mode for Windows 11 devices, which adjusts battery usage based on workload rather than just battery level. Unlike traditional Energy Saver mode, it maintains screen brightness and allows background tasks to continue without interruption. This feature is currently being tested in the Canary Channel under build number 27898, and if successful, it will be rolled out to all Windows 11 devices. The development coincides with advancements in power-efficient processors from AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm, aimed at improving battery performance in Windows laptops.

Winsage

June 10, 2025

Arm says Windows game compatibility is up to developers

Arm-powered Windows devices using Qualcomm Snapdragon processors are noted for their sleek designs and long battery life. While core compatibility issues have been largely resolved, gaming remains a challenge due to anti-cheat program compatibility, which can prevent games from launching. Chris Bergey from Arm Holdings mentioned that most users spend about 90% of their time on applications with native Arm versions. Major developers like Epic Games are exploring ways to improve compatibility with Arm-based systems. Additionally, anti-cheat issues affect the Steam Deck, which operates on an AMD processor but lacks native versions of several popular anti-cheat systems. As Arm-based Windows devices gain market share, game developers are expected to prioritize support for these platforms. The integration of Windows and Steam into Arm-based handheld devices could transform the gaming landscape, especially with improved battery life and efficiency.