Microsoft Tips, Tricks & Info
2026FEB24
Table of Contents / Source:
Microsoft confirms next Windows 11 feature drop with new Taskbar, Emoji, and Settings updates — here's what's coming to your PC very soon
Windows 11's latest Release Preview Channel update has given us our first look at Microsoft's next OS feature drop that's expected to begin rolling out imminently.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
Windows 11 adds a new secure mode that blocks sketchy apps and drivers
Windows 11 is getting a new security mode meant to block risky software before it can dig into the system, especially the kind that hides behind drivers and background services.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
5 desktop PCs to avoid at all costs, according to Consumer Reports
The expert reviewers at Consumer Reports rated dozens of the most popular desktop PCs to help everyday people decide which ones are worth buying — and which ones to avoid at all costs.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
I've used Windows for decades, but I tried Linux to see if it's truly 'easy' now - and one thing surprised me
Should you switch to Linux? Well, I was pleasantly surprised to find it is a great alternative - for some.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
Is it better to shut down a PC instead of putting it to sleep? I found out
The most obvious difference is that whereas shutting down stops Windows completely, putting it to sleep leaves it in a ready state. Apps are not only left in RAM, but in the exact state you had them.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
How to organize your desktop with Snap layouts
Keeping track of all the open apps on your desktop can be challenging but Windows 11 snap layouts are here to help you get organized.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
Stop hunting for a Microsoft Publisher replacement: You're already paying for one
Microsoft is killing Publisher in October 2026. But before you start shopping for a replacement, or worse, signing up for another subscription, open PowerPoint.
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
Microsoft is killing an Outlook feature because nobody knew what it was actually doing
- Microsoft will remove Outlook's contact masking due to user confusion and cross-app issues.
- Masking hid contacts from autocomplete across Outlook, Teams, Microsoft 365 Search, and other apps.
- The feature is removed on March 31, 2026; no replacement is planned, and no admin action is required.
Further reading:
- Microsoft is retiring an Outlook feature because it was causing too much confusion for users - neowin.net
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
Copilot bug allows ‘AI’ to read confidential Outlook emails
Microsoft's Copilot AI assistant can read and summarize messages with tags specifically designed to prevent it from doing so.
Further reading:
- Microsoft Confirms Copilot Bug Summarized Confidential Emails - techworm.net
🔷🔷🔷🔷🔷
AirDrop finally lands on Android: what this surprise move changes for everyone
It’s not every day that one of tech’s longest-standing walls finally comes crumbling down. If the idea of sending photos from your Android to a friend’s iPhone has always sounded like science fiction, it’s time to update your playlist—because seamless file sharing is finally here, and no, you don’t need to sacrifice image quality or resort to email shenanigans anymore.
Further reading:
- Use Quick Share on your Android device - support.google.com
