Operating Systems
Ongoing coverage on Operating Systems.
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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.
Ubuntu 26.04 LTS Beta released with GNOME 50, Linux kernel 7.0, Mesa 26
The beta version of Ubuntu 26.04 LTS is now available for testing, featuring GNOME 50, Linux kernel 7.0, and Mesa 26. This long-term support release will be supported until April 2031, with the final version scheduled for April 23, 2026. The beta includes various Ubuntu flavors and related products.
Former Windows boss reveals previous plans to reduce Windows 11's memory and storage footprint by 20% and now I'm hoping Microsoft includes that in its new Windows 'quality' drive
Former Windows lead Mikhail Parakhin revealed a past internal project called '20/20' aimed at reducing Windows 11's memory and storage footprint by 20%. Current Windows VP Pavan Davuluri has indicated a renewed focus on improving the operating system's fundamentals, including memory efficiency and responsiveness, which aligns with the goals of the '20/20' project.
The Morning After: WWDC 2026 is happening June 8th
Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will take place from June 8-12, 2026, with CEO Tim Cook expected to keynote on June 8. The event will focus on upcoming operating systems like iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, with potential upgrades to Apple Intelligence and Siri. The article also touches on other tech news including Samsung's Galaxy S26 Series gaining AirDrop-like functionality and a review of the Nothing Phone 4a Pro.
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.
Apple's WWDC 2026 is set for June 8-12
Apple has announced that its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will take place from June 8-12, 2026. The event will primarily be online and free, with an in-person component for select attendees at Apple Park. Key announcements are expected to include new versions of Apple's operating systems, such as iOS 27 and macOS 27, with potential improvements to Apple Intelligence and Siri.
Morning Tech Bits
Linus Torvalds commented on the state of Linux 7.0, suggesting it is returning to normal. Additionally, an Intel VP stated that future CPU sockets are expected to have longer lifespans and support more generations of processors.
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.
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.
Valve's Steam Machine gets its first support update ahead of launch via SteamOS preview 3.8.0 — and it includes one major fix I've been waiting for
Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.0 preview, introducing initial support for the upcoming Steam Machine and addressing issues like Discord screen sharing. This update suggests that a release date or pricing announcement for the Steam Machine may be imminent, despite ongoing concerns about the RAM crisis affecting hardware availability.
Big update to SteamOS improves support for non-Valve handhelds, newer platforms, discrete GPUs, and Steam Machine
SteamOS 3.8.0 Preview introduces significant improvements for non-Valve handhelds, newer AMD and Intel platforms, and discrete GPUs. The update enhances compatibility, video memory management, and controller support across various devices, including the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally. It also brings preliminary support for the upcoming Steam Machine.
SteamOS update preview brings "initial support" for the Steam Machine, plus new power and Bluetooth tricks for Steam Decks
The SteamOS 3.8.0 update is now available on the Preview branch, introducing initial support for the upcoming Steam Machine hardware. This update also brings significant improvements for the Steam Deck, including a new graphics driver, better OBS and Discord support, enhanced Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) frame pacing, and preliminary support for hibernation and a "Memory Power Down" option for the original LCD model. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity has been upgraded with the re-enabling of Bluetooth Wake for the LCD model and a new setting to enable microphones on connected Bluetooth headsets.
SteamOS 3.8.0 Preview brings initial Steam Machine support, and improvements for many handhelds
SteamOS 3.8.0 Preview introduces initial support for Steam Machine hardware and significant improvements for various handheld devices, including the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go. The update also brings an updated Arch Linux base, enhanced graphics drivers, VRR improvements, and a Wayland-default KDE Plasma desktop environment.
Linux finally gets the Opera GX Gaming Browser – Windows slowly losing its grip on gaming
Opera GX, a gaming-focused browser, has officially launched for Linux, ending Windows' long-standing dominance in the PC gaming browser space. The Linux version emphasizes privacy, offering features like built-in ad and tracker blocking, and a zero-log VPN, aligning with Linux's privacy-first ethos. This move allows Linux users to customize their browsing experience and manage system resources more effectively for gaming.
Saturday Tech Bits
Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build for the Canary Channel, version 29550.1000. The article also briefly mentions the release of Debian version 13.4 and highlights eight open-source tools.
Google is adding official Chrome support for users running Arm and Linux and it's about time
Google will officially support its Chrome browser on Linux distributions utilizing Arm64 processors in the second quarter of this year. This expansion follows previous support for Arm-based macOS and Windows devices, aiming to provide a seamless experience for users switching to Arm-based Linux systems.
Xbox Full Screen Experience shows a potential glimpse of how Project Helix will work – though right now, it’s a flawed PC platform
Microsoft's Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) aims to improve Windows 11 for handheld PCs and potentially future consoles like Project Helix. While FSE offers a more gamepad-friendly interface and suspends background processes, it falls short of dedicated gaming operating systems like SteamOS in terms of performance and user experience, often feeling like a superficial overlay on standard Windows.
Xbox mode is rolling out to all Windows 11 PCs next month — and some gamers are excited, while others are worried
Microsoft is rolling out a new 'Xbox mode' to all Windows 11 PCs starting next month, which offers a streamlined, controller-friendly interface and resource savings. Previously known as the Xbox Full Screen Experience, this mode aims to unify the PC and Xbox ecosystems. While some gamers are excited about the potential for a more integrated experience, others express concerns about potential ad integration and the future of the standalone Xbox console.
Everything can be a console in a few weeks’ time as Microsoft plans to bring an ‘Xbox Mode’ to all Windows devices
Microsoft is bringing its 'Xbox Mode' to all Windows devices starting in April, transforming them into a console-like experience. This feature, inspired by the ASUS ROG Ally's success, will offer a unified interface for games from various platforms and include technologies like Advanced Shader Delivery. The move aims to create a more consistent and distinct Xbox gaming experience across different devices.