Category: Software

  • Microsoft Update Issues Worsen: Shutdown Bug Affects Windows 10 VSM

    Microsoft Update Issues Worsen: Shutdown Bug Affects Windows 10 VSM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft identified a shutdown and hibernation issue in some PCs after the January 13, 2026 security update for Windows 11 23H2 (KB5073455).
    2. The problem affects certain Secure Launch-capable PCs with Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) enabled, causing them to restart instead of shutting down or hibernating.
    3. An out-of-band update (KB5077797) fixes the issue for some Secure Launch devices, but not for those with VSM turned on.
    4. Affected systems include Windows 11 23H2 and specific Windows 10 versions, while AMD and ARM64 processors are not impacted.
    5. Microsoft plans to address the VSM issue in a future update, and a temporary workaround is to use the command `shutdown /s /t 0`.

    Microsoft has recognized a problem where some PCs are unable to shut down or go into hibernation, instead opting to restart. This issue first appeared following the January 13, 2026, security update for Windows 11 23H2, identified as KB5073455 (OS Build 22631.6491).

    Issue Details

    According to Microsoft’s Windows release health notes, this behavior can also be seen on certain Secure Launch-capable PCs that have Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) enabled, after installing any updates released on or after January 13, 2026.

    For users of Windows 11, the shutdown and hibernation problem is categorized under KB5073455, and it indicates that an out-of-band update (KB5077797, OS Build 22631.6494) fixes the issue for some Secure Launch devices, though it does not apply to those Secure Launch-capable PCs with VSM turned on.

    Update Timeline

    On January 13, 2026, an update identified as KB5073724 (OS Builds 19045.6809 and 19044.6809) noted the same issue where certain Secure Launch-capable PCs with VSM enabled might restart rather than shut down or hibernate. Then, on January 24, 2026, update KB5078131 (OS Build 17763.8281) for Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 reiterated the restart behavior related to VSM and referenced a fix to come.

    Microsoft’s release health dashboard clearly identifies affected client systems as Windows 11 23H2 and Windows 10 (22H2, LTSC 2021, and LTSC 2019), and importantly, it mentions that the issue does not impact AMD or ARM64 processors in the outlined scenarios.

    Future Fixes and Workarounds

    Microsoft has stated that the variant involving VSM will be addressed in an upcoming Windows update. Meanwhile, both Microsoft and third-party sources have suggested using the command shutdown /s /t 0 as a temporary solution for those who cannot immediately apply the relevant out-of-band updates.

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  • Philips Hue App Update: AI Assistant Now Available for More Users

    Philips Hue App Update: AI Assistant Now Available for More Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app version 5.60.1 includes bug fixes and enhancements for smart home devices.
    2. The app’s AI assistant now supports Spanish, German, and Dutch, in addition to English.
    3. Users can interact with the AI assistant using voice or text commands for personalized lighting suggestions.
    4. New features for wired cameras allow users to set custom motion detection zones for smart lights.
    5. The Hue Secure Wired video doorbell now lets users choose their preferred chime sound for visitors.

    A fresh update for the Philips Hue app is here. The new version, 5.60.1, comes out almost a fortnight after the last one, version 5.59. This update includes slight bug fixes and enhancements for users of the brand’s smart home devices.

    New Language Support

    With the launch of version 5.60.1, the Philips Hue app’s AI assistant now supports three additional languages: Spanish, German, and Dutch. This feature began its rollout in June 2025, initially only available in English. The assistant can suggest lighting scenes or create personalized lighting effects based on your preferences. Users can interact with the assistant through voice or text commands in the chat.

    Enhanced Camera Features

    Another notable addition is for Philips Hue wired cameras, such as the Secure Wired camera (currently priced at $122.99 on Amazon Marketplace). Users can now establish a custom motion detection zone that activates linked smart lights. This can be specifically set for people, pets, or cars. To adjust this feature, navigate to Camera settings > Trigger lights > Trigger area. Furthermore, those with the Hue Secure Wired video doorbell can now select the chime sound that greets their visitors. To choose your preferred sound, go to Doorbell settings > Doorbell sound.

    You can easily get the Philips Hue app version 5.60.1 for iOS via the Apple App Store, or for Android through the Google Play Store.

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  • Stable HyperOS 3 Launches for 20 New Redmi and Xiaomi Devices

    Stable HyperOS 3 Launches for 20 New Redmi and Xiaomi Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has started the final phase of its HyperOS 3 rollout, delivering stable Android updates to over a dozen devices.
    2. The update includes 20 additional devices, including older flagship models and mid-range Redmi Note phones.
    3. Key devices receiving updates include the Xiaomi 12, Xiaomi 12S series, and several Redmi tablets and smart TVs.
    4. The stable HyperOS 3 update for certain models is likely based on Android 15, but offers a similar experience to that of Android 16.
    5. The global rollout of HyperOS 3 is ongoing and expected to continue until March, with many popular devices still waiting for updates.

    Xiaomi has started the last stage of its HyperOS 3 rollout, delivering the stable Android update to over a dozen devices. The company shared this news in an official post on its MIUI community forums in China, signaling the end of its domestic HyperOS 3 rollout that initially began in October.

    New Devices Added

    In this final phase, Xiaomi is bringing HyperOS 3 to 20 additional devices, which include older flagship models dating back to 2021, mid-range Redmi Note phones, several Redmi tablets, and smart TVs. The latest update revitalizes 2021 flagships such as the Xiaomi 12 and Xiaomi 12S series, along with the Redmi Note 12T Pro, Redmi Note 15R, Redmi 14C, Redmi Civi 3/2, Redmi K50 Ultimate Edition, and the Redmi Pad Pro series (Xiaomi 15 Pro currently priced at €697 at TradingShenzhen).

    List of Devices Receiving Updates

    Here’s the full list of devices that are set to receive the stable update:

    Although the official announcement does not specifically mention it, the stable HyperOS 3 build for the Xiaomi 12T Pro, Xiaomi 12S series, Redmi Note 12T Pro, and Xiaomi Civi 3 and 2 is likely based on Android 15 instead of the newest Android 16 base. Nonetheless, the overall software and user experience should remain quite similar to devices that run the Android 16 version, as most of the key features and visual updates of HyperOS 3 are not directly tied to the Android version. These older models should receive a comparable software experience, featuring the new iPhone-like Hyper Island, iOS-inspired lockscreen designs, system-level performance improvements that are said to enhance UI fluidity and app launch speeds, along with AI-driven writing and image editing tools.

    Global Rollout Still Ongoing

    While this announcement effectively concludes the HyperOS 3 rollout for Chinese versions, the global rollout is still in progress and is anticipated to last until March, with many popular devices still awaiting their updates.

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  • Windows 11 Shutdown Bug: KB5073455 Update Issues Confirmed

    Windows 11 Shutdown Bug: KB5073455 Update Issues Confirmed

    Key Takeaways

    1. A confirmed issue prevents some systems from shutting down or hibernating after installing the January 13, 2026, Windows security update KB5073455 for Windows 11 version 23H2.
    2. The problem is linked to the Secure Launch feature, which uses virtualization-based security to protect against firmware threats during startup.
    3. KB5073455 is mainly available for Enterprise and IoT editions of Windows 11 version 23H2, limiting its reach to consumer PCs.
    4. A fix for affected Windows 10 systems was included in out-of-band updates KB5077797 and KB5078132, with the latter also available for devices that installed earlier related updates.
    5. KB5078132 is cumulative, containing improvements from both KB5073455 and KB5077797, along with additional fixes for app responsiveness issues related to cloud storage.

    Microsoft’s Windows release health dashboard has identified a confirmed problem where some systems do not shut down or go into hibernation. Instead, they restart after the installation of the January 13, 2026, Windows security update KB5073455 for Windows 11 version 23H2.

    Secure Launch Affected

    The feature involved, known as Secure Launch, utilizes virtualization-based security to protect systems from firmware threats during the startup process. This issue is particularly relevant for users who rely on this feature for added security.

    Limited Availability

    It’s worth noting that KB5073455 is primarily available for Enterprise and IoT editions of Windows 11 version 23H2, which significantly limits the number of consumer PCs that will receive the update through standard channels.

    Additionally, Microsoft has pointed out that PCs capable of Secure Launch with Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) turned on are also affected by this issue. They have indicated that a resolution for the VSM situation will come in a future Windows update.

    Affected Systems

    The problem also impacts Windows 10 systems. Microsoft confirmed that a fix for devices using Secure Launch (excluding the VSM case) was included in an out-of-band update on January 17, 2026: KB5077797 (OS Build 22631.6494). This update is only accessible through the Microsoft Update Catalog.

    Moreover, Microsoft stated that the same fix can be found in another out-of-band update released on January 24, 2026: KB5078132 (OS Build 22631.6495). This update is available via Windows Update for devices that installed one of the January updates related to this problem.

    Cumulative Fixes

    Microsoft emphasizes that KB5078132 is cumulative, meaning it contains protections and improvements from both KB5073455 (January 13) and KB5077797 (January 17), along with additional fixes, such as addressing an app unresponsiveness issue linked to cloud storage workflows.

    This situation has certainly posed challenges for Microsoft, but they appear to be gearing up for a new update release in the near future.

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  • Ubiquiti UniFi Network 10.1 Introduces WiFi Roaming Tracking

    Ubiquiti UniFi Network 10.1 Introduces WiFi Roaming Tracking

    Key Takeaways

    1. Simplified High-Availability Setup: UniFi Network 10.1 makes high-availability configurations easier with step-by-step guidance for administrators.

    2. Failover Verification Feature: A new feature simulates outages to verify that the network setup is functioning correctly.

    3. WiFi Doctor Tool: This tool helps identify and fix potential configuration issues in the WiFi network.

    4. Device Tracking: Administrators can monitor devices as they roam within the WiFi network, providing insights into their connections to access points.

    5. Enhanced Control Options: New features allow better management of access point density, integration of satellite uplinks like Starlink, and improved device tagging and broadcasting capabilities.

    With the arrival of UniFi Network 10.1, Ubiquiti’s network software is introducing several new features. The company has concentrated on making high-availability setups more straightforward, allowing for easier configuration. The controller software now assists administrators by guiding them through each step. Additionally, a failover verification feature has been added to test the setup by simulating an outage, ensuring everything is working correctly.

    New WiFi Features

    The update also brings a host of enhancements related to WiFi. A new tool called WiFi Doctor aims to fix potential configuration problems. Furthermore, UniFi Network 10.1 introduces the ability to track devices as they roam within the WiFi network. This means that administrators can visually monitor the “roaming journey” of clients, showing which access points they connect to. This feature is particularly useful for smartphones and other mobile devices that frequently change their locations.

    Enhanced Control Options

    These updates provide administrators with additional control options, such as managing access point density within a business or making adjustments to guide clients toward different access points. Furthermore, improvements have been made regarding the integration of satellite uplinks, specifically with signal strength information. More precisely, this includes the integration of Starlink, allowing users to view the firmware status of Starlink hardware directly within UniFi Network 10.1.

    Moreover, new tags for devices on the network have been introduced, along with the option to broadcast access point names. Around a dozen bugs have also been fixed. Currently, UniFi Network 10.1.83 is in the release candidate stage, and all changes can already be found in the associated changelog.

    Ubiquiti is continually working to provide better solutions for network management, making it easier for users to ensure their networks are running smoothly.

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  • Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 Hits 95% Rollout Before March 2026 Deadline

    Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 Hits 95% Rollout Before March 2026 Deadline

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi announced that 70 devices qualify for the HyperOS 3 update.
    2. As of now, 95% of the target devices have received the update.
    3. The final rollout for remaining devices is expected to be completed by March 2026.
    4. Xiaomi is already developing the HyperOS 3.1 update, with a beta version released for 12 devices.
    5. Not all devices that received HyperOS 3.0 will qualify for the 3.1 update.

    Initially made public in August 2025, Xiaomi revealed in September 2025 that a total of 70 devices qualify for the new HyperOS 3 update. Since that announcement, numerous phones and tablets have been updated to Android 16 in phases, and as reported by XiaomiTime, only a handful of the intended devices remain.

    Update Progress

    The tracker from XiaomiTime indicates that 95% of the target devices have successfully received HyperOS 3. Looking back, Xiaomi had stated that over 60 worldwide devices would obtain the update by March 2026. Among them, a few are still pending the firmware update:

    These devices are highlighted as the final group that will be able to access HyperOS 3. Xiaomi is already in the process of developing the 3.1 update, and just recently, the beta version has been released for 12 devices. However, it should be noted that not every phone and tablet with the 3.0 update will qualify for version 3.1.

    Final Rollout

    Returning to the remaining devices slated for HyperOS 3, Xiaomi is anticipated to complete the rollout by March 2026. For those who are curious, the list of all devices eligible globally is provided below.

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  • Windows 11 Boot Failures Linked to Series of Bad Updates

    Windows 11 Boot Failures Linked to Series of Bad Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. The January 2026 KB5074109 update is not randomly causing failures; it affects devices already unstable from a December 2025 update.
    2. The issue primarily impacts a small number of physical Windows 11 devices in commercial settings, not virtual machines.
    3. Microsoft is working on a partial fix to prevent more devices from entering a no-boot state but cannot fix those already affected.
    4. Administrators are advised to check update history for failed installs from December 2025 and avoid deploying KB5074109 on vulnerable devices.
    5. The boot failures in January result from a series of problematic updates, not just the KB5074109 patch alone.

    Microsoft has confirmed that the Windows 11 KB5074109 security update from January 2026 is not “randomly” causing healthy PCs to fail, but instead is triggering boot failures on devices that were already in an unstable state due to a problematic December 2025 update. When devices tried to install the December update, then rolled it back and continued to run on that flawed version, they are now more likely to experience a UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME (0xED) error and a black screen following the installation of KB5074109.

    Update Affects Limited Devices

    As per Microsoft, this issue impacts a small number of physical Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 devices, primarily found in commercial settings, and does not seem to affect virtual machines. The company highlights that the January update is essentially “stacking” on top of the corrupted state caused by the December update, explaining why only some systems face boot loops while others can install KB5074109 without any problems.

    Ongoing Efforts for Resolution

    Microsoft is currently working on a partial fix that aims to stop more devices from entering a no-boot state once they are already in that compromised condition. However, this solution will not fix PCs that are already unable to boot, nor will it address the root cause of the December failure. Affected machines will still require manual recovery through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or external media to uninstall updates or repair the operating system.

    For the time being, the instructions remain the same: administrators should review the update history for failed installs from December 2025, refrain from deploying KB5074109 to vulnerable devices, and use WinRE for uninstalling or fully reinstalling the OS for systems that are currently stuck on the UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME screen.

    Continuing Challenges with Updates

    While this new explanation does not conclude the ongoing saga of Windows 11 updates, it does provide a clearer understanding that the boot failures seen in January are a result of a series of problematic updates rather than a single isolated patch.

     

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  • Home Assistant Launches Major App Update with New Entity Picker

    Home Assistant Launches Major App Update with New Entity Picker

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Home Assistant Android app has been updated to version 2026.1.6, featuring significant improvements.
    2. A revamped onboarding experience has been introduced, similar to the update for iOS users.
    3. The Assist voice control feature now includes streaming text-to-speech (TTS) capabilities for faster responses.
    4. A new entity picker has been added, offering improved filters for ID, name, and area to enhance user experience.
    5. Users can download the app from the Google Play Store and find the full changelog on the Home Assistant GitHub page.

    The Home Assistant companion app on Android has just been updated significantly. The latest version, 2026.1.6, was shared by the company through their social media channels, introducing several exciting features and enhancements for its users.

    New Onboarding Experience

    To start off, Home Assistant has revamped the onboarding process for the Android app. Below, you can see a screenshot showcasing the new onboarding interface. A comparable update was made for iOS users in the 2025.11.0 version. Additionally, the company has enhanced the Assist voice control feature, which now includes streaming text-to-speech (TTS) capabilities, aimed at reducing response times.

    Improved Entity Picker

    Moreover, the Android app has a fresh entity picker as part of version 2026.1 (check out the screenshot below). This feature was previously introduced to iOS users in the same version. The new entity picker comes with additional filters for ID, name, and area, all designed to improve the overall user experience.

    Download Availability

    You can now grab the Home Assistant app version 2026.1.6 from the Google Play Store. Although the app’s page lacks detailed release notes, users can access the full changelog for this update on the official Home Assistant GitHub page. In the upcoming days, users should also look forward to a broader Home Assistant 2025.2 update for the open-source smart home automation platform.

    Google Play Store, Home Assistant via GitHub, Home Assistant via X, Caschy’s Blog.

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  • Windows 11 KB5074105 Preview Update: Features and Fixes in 25H2

    Windows 11 KB5074105 Preview Update: Features and Fixes in 25H2

    Key Takeaways

    1. KB5074105 is the January 2026 Preview Update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, updating systems to build 26200.7705.
    2. This update is optional and focuses on new features and fixes, rather than addressing security issues.
    3. It includes several visible changes and numerous behind-the-scenes enhancements.
    4. Users need to manually click “Download & install” for this preview update to be installed.
    5. This update aims to address issues caused by the previous update, KB5074109, particularly problems with the Start menu and black screens.

    Microsoft has put out KB5074105 as the January 2026 Preview Update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, updating systems to build 26200.7705. In contrast to KB5074109, this update is optional and does not address security issues; instead, it centers around introducing new features and fixing some problems from earlier updates in January.

    New Features and Improvements

    The update brings several changes that users can see, along with various behind-the-scenes enhancements. A few of the highlights include:

    KB5074105 also includes a significant number of fixes, many of which aim to resolve problems encountered after the installation of KB5074109.

    Installation Notes

    Since this is a preview update, KB5074105 won’t install on its own unless you manually click on “Download & install” or if you have the option “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” enabled. Users who are still apprehensive after the issues caused by KB5074109 might consider waiting for the next full Patch Tuesday update. However, for those experiencing specific problems with the Start menu or black screens, this preview serves as Microsoft’s initial measure toward a more comprehensive fix.

    Windows Latest

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  • Windows 11 KB5074109 Drops Support for Older Modems

    Windows 11 KB5074109 Drops Support for Older Modems

    Key Takeaways

    1. The January 2026 Windows 11 KB5074109 security update causes crashes and boot issues on some PCs.
    2. The update removes four old modem drivers, making certain modems stop working.
    3. Many users have reported that their dial-up and telephony modems fail to operate after installing the update.
    4. Microsoft justifies the driver removal as a security measure to address unresolved kernel vulnerabilities.
    5. Users relying on affected modems have limited options: uninstall the update or upgrade to new hardware with supported drivers.

    Microsoft’s January 2026 Windows 11 KB5074109 security update has been causing issues on some PCs, leading to crashes and boot problems. Additionally, it’s intentionally disabling certain older modems.

    Driver Removals

    In the official changelog for KB5074109, Microsoft mentions a “Compatibility” change that eliminates four long-standing modem drivers from Windows 11: agrsm64.sys, agrsm.sys, smserl64.sys, and smserial.sys. The documentation clearly states that any modem hardware relying on these drivers will stop functioning after the update.

    Users Affected

    This situation has been frequently noted by users. After installing KB5074109, many find that their dial-up and telephony modems cease to operate, including some devices marketed as “Windows 11 compatible.” Rolling back the update immediately restores these modems, proving that the removal of the drivers is the cause of the problem.

    Microsoft’s Justification

    Both Microsoft and external analysts frame this action as a step towards enhancing security, rather than as an error. The drivers that were removed, which are utilized by older Agere/LSI and Motorola soft-modems, have been linked to unresolved vulnerabilities at the kernel level. Therefore, Microsoft opted to remove them from the operating system instead of continuing to distribute code that could be exploited.

    For users and small businesses that still depend on these modems for services like faxing, telemetry, or phone-logging, the options are quite limited. They can either uninstall KB5074109 and temporarily pause updates, or swap out the hardware for devices that utilize currently supported drivers. Microsoft’s own guidelines make it clear that there will not be any future support for modems associated with these four outdated drivers.

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