Windows operating system Archives

Winsage

June 16, 2025

Microsoft has disabled a ‘key feature’ to enhance Windows security – The Times of India

Microsoft updated the Windows Hello face unlock functionality in April, which now fails to operate in low-light environments due to a strategic decision aimed at addressing a spoofing vulnerability. Users of Surface Laptops have reported frustrations as they can no longer access their devices using facial recognition in dark rooms. The update requires color cameras to see a visible face when signing in. Researchers from Nanyang Technological University identified a vulnerability in the system that allowed unauthorized access, although Microsoft categorized it as "important" and stated the likelihood of exploitation remains low. A temporary workaround for users is to disable the webcam through Windows 11's Device Manager, but this renders the camera unusable for other applications.

Winsage

June 13, 2025

LibreOffice maker urges Windows 10 users to defect in viral ‘Go Linux, not Windows 11’ campaign

The Document Foundation (TDF) is advocating for users to transition from Windows 10 to Linux, emphasizing its benefits as a free and open operating system. The deadline for Windows 10 support is October 14, 2025. TDF argues that users are not required to upgrade to Windows 11, which has new hardware requirements that may make many existing PCs obsolete. TDF promotes Linux and LibreOffice as a privacy-centric alternative that allows users to maintain their current hardware while accessing a suite of applications. Other Linux advocates, including KDE, have criticized Microsoft for its subscription model. Transitioning to Linux may be challenging for less tech-savvy users due to the learning curve and potential software compatibility issues. TDF suggests testing Linux on secondary partitions, but acknowledges that this may be difficult for some users.

Winsage

June 13, 2025

Microsoft clogs up Windows 10 Calendar with Bing spam

Microsoft is rolling out update KB5060533 for Windows 10, which includes security enhancements and new features in the Calendar. The update integrates links to special themed days, such as World Environment Day (June 5, 2025), World Oceans Day (June 8), Juneteenth National Freedom Day (June 19), and American Eagle Day (June 20). Clicking on these themed days launches the Edge browser and initiates a Bing search related to the event, regardless of the user's default search engine. There is currently no option to disable this feature or select a different search engine for these queries.

Winsage

June 11, 2025

Microsoft Windows Secure Boot Bypass Confirmed

The second Tuesday of each month is when Microsoft releases monthly security updates for Windows. A significant zero-day vulnerability, CVE-2025-3052, has been identified, affecting all Windows users and allowing a Secure Boot bypass. This vulnerability could compromise system integrity by enabling malware to infiltrate Windows PCs and servers. CVE-2025-3052 is classified as a memory corruption issue within a module signed with Microsoft’s third-party UEFI certificate and can execute unsigned code during the boot process, potentially allowing attackers to install bootkits.

Winsage

June 11, 2025

Microsoft slows Windows 11 24H2 Patch Tuesday due to issues

Microsoft's June security update for Windows 11 24H2 introduced critical fixes but was quickly followed by a warning about a compatibility issue affecting a limited number of devices, leading to the throttling of the update. Microsoft plans to release a revised update that will include all security improvements from June 2025. The specifics of the compatibility issue remain unclear, with speculation about potential complications related to various CPU architectures and reports of installation errors from users. The rapid throttling of the patch raises questions about the quality control processes in place at Microsoft.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Windows and Xbox team up with ASUS to create ROG Xbox Ally handhelds

At the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, Xbox and ASUS introduced the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld devices, powered by Windows 11. These devices provide access to a diverse game library, allow for PC gaming versatility, and support multifunctional capabilities such as running applications like Discord and streaming on platforms like Twitch. Roanne Sones from Xbox highlighted the unique advantages of these handhelds, emphasizing their access to games not available elsewhere. The ROG Xbox Ally series is set to launch in select markets for the holiday season, with plans for further regional expansion.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

5 Windows XP features I miss dearly on Windows 11

Microsoft's Windows operating system has evolved significantly, with Windows 11 featuring enhanced multitasking and modern functionalities. However, nostalgic elements from older versions, particularly Windows XP, are missed. 1. The Disk Defragmenter in Windows XP had a visually appealing interface that represented data on the disk, which has been replaced by a text-based interface in later versions. 2. Built-in games like Solitaire, Hearts, and 3D Pinball in Windows XP provided straightforward enjoyment, while their modern counterparts have become cluttered and commercialized. 3. Windows Media Player in XP allowed users to customize with quirky skins, which added personality, a feature that is lacking in today's streamlined media players. 4. Windows Movie Maker was a user-friendly video editing tool that has been replaced by Clipchamp, which many find less intuitive and more patronizing. 5. Windows Messenger and Windows Live Messenger offered a personalized messaging experience with group organization and unique emoticons, which is not matched by current platforms like Skype and Microsoft Teams.

Winsage

June 4, 2025

Microsoft will stop pestering Windows users about Edge in EU

Microsoft has made adjustments to its Windows operating system to comply with Europe’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). Designated as a "gatekeeper" under the DMA in 2023, Microsoft is required to modify its core platform services. The changes announced in March 2024 for European users include the ability to uninstall Edge and Bing, support for third-party web applications on the Windows taskbar, and revisions to sign-on practices. Users will now only receive notifications to set Edge as their default browser after opening it, and the "Set Default" button will cover more file types in the EEA. Some enhancements are available in the Beta Channel, with a broader rollout expected in July. Windows Search will allow EEA users to install applications that designate alternative web search providers, and users will soon be able to uninstall and reinstall the Microsoft Store. Jon S. von Tetzchner, CEO of Vivaldi, praised the changes but noted that the process for setting a preferred default browser still needs improvement.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

Microsoft updates Notepad app with new features after decades

Microsoft's Notepad is undergoing an update that introduces enhanced formatting features, moving away from its traditional minimalist design. The new version will support "lightweight formatting," including Markdown-style input, a formatting toolbar for bold, italic, hyperlinks, lists, and headings. Users who prefer the classic Notepad can revert to its original simplicity by clearing formatting or disabling new features in the app settings. Notepad was first launched in 1983 as "Multi-Tool Notepad" and became a part of the Windows operating system starting with Windows 1.0 in 1985.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Windows Update will soon add app updates to its functionality

Windows Update is evolving to support individual application updates, moving beyond its traditional focus on system-wide updates. Microsoft plans to introduce a new orchestration platform that allows developers to implement software updates directly through Windows Update, streamlining the process and enhancing user experience. This integration aims to improve the efficiency and timeliness of updates for end-users.