Windows Archives

Winsage

June 8, 2025

Microsoft tests CPU energy-saving feature in Windows 11

In the latest test build of Windows 11, version 26200.5603, Microsoft introduced User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management, which optimizes CPU usage by reducing power consumption during inactivity. The system detects a lack of user activity, such as no mouse movements or keyboard inputs, and transitions into a low-power mode to conserve energy and extend battery life. When user interaction resumes, full CPU performance is restored. This feature is expected to be included in the upcoming final releases of Windows 11, specifically in versions 24H2 and 25H2.

Winsage

June 8, 2025

Microsoft is going to slow down Windows 11 later this year – but it’s for your own good

The Windows 11 25H2 update will introduce a feature called User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management, which reduces performance during periods of inactivity to conserve power. This feature is designed to activate automatically, allowing full performance to be restored when users return to their tasks. It aims to extend battery life for laptops and save energy for desktop users, although actual energy savings may vary based on device type, power mode, and whether the device is plugged in or running on battery.

Winsage

June 8, 2025

Windows 11 Is Getting A Cool Trick That Could Boost Your Laptop’s Battery Life

The latest development build of Windows 11, Preview Build 26200.5603 (KB5058488), introduces a feature called "User Interaction-Aware CPU Power Management," which enhances laptop battery life by automatically shifting the CPU to a lower-power state when user activity is not detected. This feature operates independently of the user's selected power plan and utilizes traditional CPU C-States and manufacturer-provided Processor Power Management (PPM). It is enabled by default in the preview build and is expected to be included in the upcoming Windows 25H2 release.

Winsage

June 8, 2025

Windows 10 is ending: How to install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC

Support for Windows 10 will officially conclude in October 2025, prompting users to seek alternative solutions for security and updates. Users with devices that do not meet Windows 11 requirements can install it on unsupported hardware using a tailored ISO and a tool called MicroWin. To create a personalized Windows 11 image, users must run a command in the Windows terminal to activate WinUtil, which allows downloading the latest official ISO from Microsoft. Users can customize their installation settings and generate a modified, lighter ISO. After creating the ISO, it can be transferred to a USB drive for installation. This method helps extend the lifespan of older PCs as users transition from Windows 10.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

Windows Central Podcast: Is Windows in trouble?

This week’s episode of the Windows Central Podcast features hosts Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden discussing the performance of Windows 11 on gaming handhelds and the challenges Microsoft faces due to setbacks with Windows Core OS and Windows CorePC. They also examine the latest designs of the Windows 11 Start menu and discuss the capabilities of Bing Video Creator, highlighting the impact of artificial intelligence on content creation.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

If you’re sick of software subscriptions, check this out

A Microsoft Office Pro lifetime license is available for .97, significantly reduced from its usual price of 9.99. This license includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. It allows installation on a single Windows PC and is tied to the device rather than a Microsoft account. The software supports all languages, includes complimentary customer support, and provides updates at no extra cost.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

Make your Windows 11 taskbar transparent for a cool, minimalist vibe

Many users find the standard Windows 11 taskbar distracting and prefer a minimalist approach with a transparent taskbar. Windows 11 has a native transparency option under Settings > Personalization > Colors, but it typically results in a frosted glass effect. The TranslucentTB app, available for free on the Microsoft Store, allows users to customize the opacity and color of their taskbar. To use it, users should download and install the app, find the TranslucentTB icon in the System Tray, and select "clear" from the Visible Window menu for full transparency. Users can also adjust Security and Privacy settings if the app does not function properly. TranslucentTB offers dynamic behavior options, allowing the taskbar to change transparency based on user activity, such as becoming transparent only when a window is maximized.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

‘Screenbox’ Is a Sleek and Capable VLC-Based Video Player for Windows

Screenbox is a free and open-source video player designed for Windows 11, offering a user-friendly interface and extensive media format support. It is built on the LibVLCSharp framework, ensuring compatibility with all media formats supported by VLC. The application features a visually appealing interface with essential buttons, support for YouTube's keyboard shortcuts, picture-in-picture functionality, and a media library that includes default video and music folders with options to add more directories. Screenbox is suitable for both casual file playback and organization of media libraries.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

8 PC games Humble Choice members get to download and play for free this month

Humble Bundle is offering eight free games to its Humble Choice subscribers this month, including Havendock (simulation), Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun (first-person shooter), and Dungeons of Hinterberg (action-adventure RPG). The Humble Choice subscription costs .99 per month and provides access to new free PC games each month, which subscribers can keep indefinitely. Members also receive a 20% discount on purchases at the Humble Bundle store and can use the Humble app for Windows. Additionally, 5% of each Humble Choice membership fee is donated to charitable causes.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Best Windows apps this week

Microsoft has made significant updates for users in the European Union and European Economic Area, including the ability to uninstall the Microsoft Store while still receiving app updates, a reduction in notifications related to Edge, and increased control over web searches in Windows. This week features discounts on various applications, with some offers extending beyond a single week. Notable new or improved Windows apps include: - Fences 6.0: An updated desktop management tool that allows users to organize programs and links into customizable groups with new tab support. - Start Everywhere: An application launcher that complements the Windows Start Menu, enabling users to launch applications from any screen corner using mouse clicks, hotkeys, or active corners. - VeraCrypt 1.26: An open-source encryption software that allows users to encrypt their entire system, individual hard drives, or specific partitions, with new protective measures against screen recordings and captures.