Windows 11
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Windows 11.
Latest coverage
The MacBook Neo is moonlighting as a Windows gaming machine, and it’s doing it well
The MacBook Neo, powered by Apple's A18 Pro chip, has demonstrated surprising Windows gaming capabilities when run through Parallels Desktop. Despite its budget positioning and 8GB of RAM, it achieved playable frame rates in titles like Dirt 3 and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, though Grand Theft Auto V struggled. This suggests that Apple's more affordable hardware can serve as a viable platform for casual Windows gaming through virtualization.
Microsoft starts removing unnecessary Copilot buttons in Windows 11
Microsoft is removing unnecessary Copilot buttons and branding from Windows 11 applications like Notepad, Snipping Tool, Photos, and Widgets. This move follows criticism regarding the forced integration and inconsistent experience of the AI assistant. The company plans to be more intentional about Copilot's integration across Windows.
Morning Safety Dance
A zero-day vulnerability in Adobe Reader is being exploited through PDFs, allowing attackers to target users. Separately, Microsoft has stated that a reported glitch in Windows 11 and Windows 10 is considered 'by design' and will not be fixed.
Advanced Security Layers for Competitive Streamers and Tournament Broadcasters
Competitive streaming setups require robust cybersecurity measures due to the complexity of broadcasting software and the public-facing nature of content creation. Features like OS-level protection, encrypted storage, and virtualization-based security are crucial for protecting game accounts, creator platforms, and system stability during high-stakes events. Digital marketplaces also play a role in providing secure access to gaming software and tools for streamers.
Linux has gotten a 3% usage bump in a month, latest Steam hardware survey suggests - though, it's still miles off Windows
The latest Steam hardware survey indicates a slight increase in Linux usage among gamers, reaching 5.33% in March, a jump from 2.23% in February. Despite this growth, Linux usage remains significantly lower than Windows, which holds 92.33% of the market share. Arch Linux, Linux Mint, and Ubuntu Core are the leading Linux variants mentioned.
Linux installs jump to over 5% of gamers on the latest Steam Hardware Survey while the RTX 5070 reverts to the norm
The latest Steam Hardware Survey for March shows a significant increase in Linux adoption among gamers, jumping to 5.33%, while Windows 11 usage also rose at the expense of Windows 10. GPU statistics have normalized after a suspicious spike for the Nvidia RTX 5070 in February, with the RTX 3060 returning to the top spot.
Xbox Ally handhelds just gained Game Bar display and Auto Super Resolution widgets, but Windows put me through hell…
The ASUS ROG Ally handheld gaming PC has received a new Game Bar widget that allows on-the-fly adjustments for display settings and the Auto Super Resolution feature. However, the article details a frustrating troubleshooting process involving Windows 11 updates and multiple Microsoft applications to get the widget working.
Aether & Iron review
Aether & Iron is a steampunk-inspired RPG that blends tactical combat with visual novel storytelling. Despite occasional pacing issues, the game offers deep gameplay mechanics and an engaging narrative set in an alternate 1930s New York. The title is available on PC and is Steam Deck playable.
Morning Tech Bits
TSMC is reportedly fully booked with orders until 2028, with even its upcoming Arizona fabrication plant already sold out before construction. The article also briefly mentions the announcement of a Windows 11 Insider Preview Build.
Morning Tech Bits
Microsoft has pulled its latest Windows 11 update due to a critical error causing installation failures and missing files. Separately, Linus Torvalds commented on the perceived calm surrounding Linux 7.0.
Engadget Podcast: Can Microsoft fix Windows 11 by dumping AI?
This podcast episode discusses Microsoft's potential shift in Windows 11 strategy, moving away from heavy AI integration like Copilot towards core features and customization. The hosts also touch upon OpenAI's Sora, Meta's legal troubles regarding child engagement and social media addiction, an iOS exploit, Epic Games layoffs, and the dissolution of the Afeela EV collaboration between Honda and Sony.
March Xbox Update: New Console Updates Available to Insiders, Xbox at GDC, and More
Xbox is rolling out new console features for Insiders, including customizable Home groups, custom colors, and Quick Resume settings. Updates from GDC include Project Helix, a next-generation console concept, and the expansion of Xbox mode to all Windows 11 devices. New dynamic backgrounds for Sea of Thieves and Towerborne are also available.
Evening Tech Bits
Apple has released a dozen security updates. The article also briefly mentions Arm designing its own chips and a tip about disabling a Windows 11 service.
Microsoft is 'working on' removing the online account login requirement for new Windows 11 installs and also 'reducing unnecessary Copilot entry points'
Microsoft is working on removing the mandatory online account login requirement for new Windows 11 installations and reducing the integration of its Copilot AI assistant in various apps. The company also plans to decrease disruption from Windows Updates, including fewer automatic restarts and notifications, and will allow users to reposition the taskbar to the top or sides of the screen.
Microsoft might actually make Windows 11 good as the company promises to roll back AI features and improve performance
Microsoft has announced plans to improve Windows 11 by rolling back certain AI features and enhancing overall performance. The company aims to address user feedback by focusing on system reliability, customizability, and a more streamlined user experience, including improvements to File Explorer and update management.
Sunday Tech Bits
Intel is expected to announce its new Battlemage GPUs next week, though they may not appeal to gamers. Microsoft is reportedly reconsidering its mandatory Microsoft Account policy for Windows 11, a move that has been met with internal dissatisfaction. Samsung is also mentioned in relation to unspecified developments.
Saturday Tech Bits
Microsoft is addressing user complaints regarding Windows Update with upcoming fixes. The company also announced Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.8085 for the Dev Channel, indicating ongoing development and testing for the operating system.
Windows Updates can be scheduled or paused starting in April 2026
Microsoft is introducing new features that will allow users to schedule or pause Windows updates starting in April 2026. Pavan Davuluri, Windows VP, announced that upcoming updates will give PC users more control over when their Windows 11 systems are updated.
Microsoft Plans To Make Windows 11 Less Annoying
Microsoft is planning several improvements for Windows 11, with many arriving in March and April. Key changes include the ability to reposition the taskbar, reduced AI integration in unnecessary programs like Notepad and Photos, and more user control over update scheduling. File Explorer performance will also be refined, and widget options will offer more customization.
Windows 11 Gamers Score Major Victory With DIY Graphics Fix
PC gamers have developed a community-driven fix for graphics compatibility issues on Windows 11, specifically addressing problems with the legacy DirectDraw API. This grassroots solution, shared widely on Steam, allows older games to run more reliably on the latest Windows operating system, highlighting the proactive nature of the gaming community in overcoming technical hurdles.
