Windows Store Archives

Winsage

May 20, 2025

Microsoft confirms new “Advanced” Settings for Windows 11

Microsoft introduced the 'Advanced Settings' page in Windows 11 at the Build 2025 developer conference, replacing the 'For Developers' tab and enhancing user customization. It can be accessed via Settings > System > Advanced and offers features such as showing file extensions, hidden and system files, full paths in the title bar, options to run applications as different users, and visibility of empty drives. A new section for 'File Explorer + version control' allows users to link Git repository folders, improving workflow for developers. The 'Advanced Settings' page will be open-sourced on GitHub for ongoing maintenance and updates.

Winsage

April 26, 2025

Blame your phone for killing off this traditional Windows app

Microsoft has announced that Windows Maps will be deprecated by April, with the app being removed from the Windows Store by July and ceasing to receive support thereafter. A July update will deactivate the Maps app entirely. Personal data saved in the app will remain intact but will not function after July 2025. New PCs running future versions of Windows 11 will not come preinstalled with the Maps app beyond the current 24H2 release. Users can still access mapping services through Bing’s dedicated maps page.

Winsage

April 24, 2025

Reinstalled Windows? Now is the time to Ninite it

Ninite is a tool that simplifies the installation of applications and runtimes during the setup of a fresh Windows LTSC edition. It allows users to create a custom installer that can be reused to update applications to their latest versions. Windows 10 will reach its support deadline in October 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11 or consider LTSC editions, which have support until 2027 or 2032 for US English. Users must back up data and have the necessary media and license keys for applications when switching to LTSC, which involves formatting and reinstalling the PC. Ninite enables users to select applications from its website, creating a single installation program that automates the process without unnecessary prompts. It offers a wide range of software, including web browsers, graphics packages, developer tools, messaging apps, and utilities. Additionally, users may need device drivers, for which Snappy Driver Installer Origin can be useful, while O&O ShutUp10++ can help disable Microsoft telemetry.

AppWizard

April 22, 2025

Oblivion Remastered Is Steam Deck Verified And Steeply Discounted For PC

Bethesda has unveiled The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, enhancing the original game from 2006. The game is available on Steam for .49 (originally .99), with a Deluxe Edition priced at .79 (down from .99). Fanatical is offering a free game with purchases over from a selection of 12 titles. The remaster includes the complete Oblivion experience with expansions and additional DLCs such as Fighter’s Stronghold and Mehrune’s Razor. The game has received Steam Deck Verification, and the Deluxe Edition features new quests and exclusive armors, alongside a digital art book and soundtrack app. It can also be accessed through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for Xbox Series X|S and PC, with a 3-Month Membership costing .99.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

Windows 10 LTSC – the version that won’t expire for years

The end of support for Windows 10 is approaching in October, but two editions will remain supported for two and seven more years, respectively. Windows 10 LTSC 2021 will receive mainstream support until January 12, 2027, and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 until January 13, 2032. LTSC versions lack the Windows Store and many modern applications, offering a streamlined experience with essential features only. Activation of LTSC editions requires an enterprise product key, obtainable through a Volume License Agreement. The IoT version is limited to US English, while the standard LTSC supports 38 languages. LTSC editions do not receive version upgrades, remaining on version 21H2 indefinitely. LTSC ISO files are not readily available on the Microsoft download page but can be accessed through the Microsoft portal with an enterprise license. Unauthorized third-party Windows distributions, such as Tiny11 and Atlas OS, exist but may violate Microsoft’s terms of service.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

What Is Runtime Broker On Your PC, And Is It Safe To Disable It?

The Runtime Broker is a core process in Windows that manages permissions for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps. It typically uses minimal CPU resources but can spike to around 30% when a UWP app is launched to verify permissions. High CPU usage may persist even after closing an app, which can often be resolved by ending the process in Task Manager. If issues recur with a specific app, users can either uninstall it or check for updates. Disabling the Runtime Broker is not recommended, as it may destabilize the system and compromise security. Users can verify the legitimacy of the Runtime Broker process by checking its file location in the C:WindowsSystem32 directory. If the location differs, it may indicate malware.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Don’t want Copilot on Windows? Install the official update

A recent Windows 11 update, KB5053598 (OS build 26100.3476), released as a security fix, has unintentionally removed the Copilot AI app from some PCs. Microsoft acknowledged this issue and suggested users can reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store. The update does not affect the 365 Copilot app. IT administrators should be aware that the update may conflict with Citrix Session Recording Agent (SRA) version 2411, potentially hindering the installation of January 2025's security updates. The update primarily impacts organizations using the newer SRA version, while home users are not expected to face similar issues. Additionally, the update prevents Roblox from being downloaded and played from the Windows Store on Windows on Arm devices, although it can still be accessed via the developer's website.

Winsage

December 16, 2024

Microsoft defends new Windows 11 Store UI, says impact is “very positive”

The Windows Store has been significantly enhanced in features and speed under Rudy Huyn's guidance, but the recent redesign of its user interface has received mixed reactions. Critics, including Albacore, have expressed dissatisfaction with the new UI, comparing it unfavorably to the earlier Windows 10 design and noting issues like misaligned text and diminished visibility of reviews. Despite these criticisms, the new design includes modern usability improvements, such as better readability of ratings and buttons. Rudy Huyn defended the redesign, citing positive results from extensive A/B testing and user feedback. Microsoft is committed to continuous improvement, conducting daily experiments to refine the Store's interface and testing other layouts. Recent updates have improved download speeds and integrated Winget for easier updates of Win32 applications.

Winsage

November 22, 2024

The official “Bing Wallpaper app” does some nasty, malware-like things to Windows

Microsoft has introduced the Bing Wallpaper app to the Windows Store, allowing users to update their desktop backgrounds daily with images from the Bing homepage. Concerns have been raised by developer Rafael Rivera regarding the app's security and privacy risks, including the automatic installation of Bing Visual Search, code for decrypting cookies from other browsers, integration of a geolocation web API, attempts to change default browser settings, and forced prompts to enable the Bing Search extension. Rivera has labeled the app as malicious and provided a list of extensions users may need to block. The online community has reacted negatively, with some users suggesting the possibility of a class action lawsuit. Alternatives to Bing Wallpaper exist that do not compromise user privacy, and Windows 11 offers built-in options for changing desktop backgrounds.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Windows 11 might not update if you have these apps

Microsoft has implemented a thorough scan of hardware and installed software for potential incompatibilities before initiating Windows updates, pausing the process if any issues are detected. The rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update has seen an increase in upgrade blocks, affecting certain Asus laptops, integrated webcams, and fingerprint sensors. Specific incompatibilities include Gameloft’s Asphalt 8: Airborne, the Safe Exam Browser, Easy Anti-Cheat, various wallpaper customization tools, and Intel Smart Sound Technology, which requires a driver update. Microsoft is working to address these issues to minimize user intervention.