How to Disable & Remove All Recommended, Recent Apps, Games & Browsing History from Windows 11 Start Menu

Many Windows 11 users notice that the Start Menu shows Recommended items, recently opened files, app suggestions, games, and browsing activity. These suggestions can make the Start Menu look cluttered and may also expose your recent activity to anyone using the computer. Fortunately, Windows 11 allows you to disable these recommendations and history options so the Start Menu becomes clean and private. In this guide, you will learn how to remove Recommended items, recent apps, games suggestions, and browsing history from the Windows 11 Start Menu.

Method 1: Disable Recommended Items from Start Menu Settings

This is the main method that stops Windows from showing recommendations and activity in the Start Menu.

• Right-click the Start Menu button on the taskbar.
• Click Start settings.
• The Personalization > Start page will open.

Now turn OFF the following options:

• Show recently added apps
• Show recommended files in Start, recent files in File Explorer, and items in Jump Lists
• Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, and more
• Show websites from your browsing history
• Show most used apps

After disabling these options, Windows 11 will stop showing recommended apps, recent files, browsing activity, and suggestions in the Start Menu.

Method 2: Disable File Explorer Recent Files & History

Even after disabling Start Menu recommendations, Windows may still track recently opened files in File Explorer. You can disable this history as well.

• Open File Explorer.
• Click the three-dot menu in the top toolbar.
• Click Options.
• The Folder Options window will open.

Under the Privacy section:

• Uncheck Show recently used files
• Uncheck Show frequently used folders
• Uncheck Show files from Office.com

Now click Clear next to Clear File Explorer history.
Click Apply and then OK.

After disabling these options, File Explorer will stop tracking recently opened files and folders, which also helps remove recommendations from the Start Menu.

What Happens After Disabling These Options

Once these settings are turned off:

• The Recommended section becomes empty or minimal.
• Recently opened files stop appearing in Start Menu and File Explorer.
• Browsing history suggestions will no longer appear.
• App and game suggestions stop showing.
• Your Windows 11 Start Menu becomes cleaner and more private.

Why Many Users Disable Start Menu Recommendations

Many people prefer turning off these features because:

• It keeps the Start Menu clean and minimal.
• Prevents Windows from showing personal activity.
• Stops random app or game suggestions.
• Improves privacy and reduces tracking.
• Makes navigation simpler and distraction-free.

Conclusion

The Windows 11 Start Menu often shows recommended items, recent files, and browsing suggestions that many users do not actually need. By opening Start settings and disabling recommendation options, and by clearing File Explorer history, you can completely stop Windows from showing these suggestions. After applying these settings, the Start Menu becomes cleaner, more organized, and much more private.

FAQ

Why does Windows 11 show Recommended items in the Start Menu?
Windows displays recommended files, apps, and suggestions based on your recent activity to make frequently used content easier to access.

Can I completely remove the Recommended section in Windows 11?
Some Windows versions still keep the section visible, but turning off all recommendation options will make it empty and stop showing suggestions.

Does clearing File Explorer history affect my files?
No. Clearing File Explorer history only removes recently used file and folder records. Your actual files remain unchanged.

Will these settings improve privacy?
Yes. Disabling browsing suggestions and recent activity prevents Windows from displaying your usage history in the Start Menu and File Explorer.

Do these steps work in newer Windows 11 updates?
Yes. These settings are available in current Windows 11 versions and continue to work in newer updates.

Fix Laptop Speaker Low Volume Issue (Increase Laptop Speaker Volume Easily)

Laptop speakers sometimes sound very low even when the volume is already set to 100%. This issue is common on many laptops including Dell, ASUS, HP, Acer, MSI and other Windows devices. It can happen because of incorrect sound settings, outdated Realtek audio drivers, disabled sound enhancements, or wrong speaker configuration. The good news is that you can easily fix this problem using a few built-in Windows settings without installing risky third-party software.

If your laptop speaker sound is too quiet while watching videos, listening to music, or attending online meetings, follow the methods below to increase laptop speaker volume and improve sound quality.

How to Change Sound Output Device to Fix No Sound Issue in Windows 11

Method 1: Increase Volume from Volume Mixer

Sometimes the system volume is high but the application volume is low.

• Right-click the Speaker icon in the Windows taskbar.
• Click Open Volume Mixer.
• Increase Device volume to 100.
• Also increase the volume of your browser, VLC, YouTube or other apps.
• Play audio again and check if the sound becomes louder.

This simple step solves many low sound problems.

Method 2: Enable Loudness Equalization

Windows has a hidden sound enhancement that increases the overall loudness.

• Right-click the Speaker icon in the taskbar.
• Click Sound settings.
• Scroll down and open More sound settings.
• Select Speakers and click Properties.
• Open the Enhancements tab.
• Enable Loudness Equalization.
• Click Apply and then OK.

This feature automatically boosts quieter sounds and increases speaker volume.

Method 3: Set Highest Hz in Speaker Settings

Incorrect frequency settings can sometimes reduce speaker performance. Setting the highest available Hz can improve audio output.

• Right-click the Speaker icon in the taskbar.
• Click Sound settings.
• Open More sound settings.
• Select Speakers and click Properties.
• Open the Advanced tab.
• Under Default Format, choose the highest Hz available (for example 24 bit, 48000 Hz or higher).
• Click Apply and then OK.

After applying this setting, play audio again and check the sound level.

Method 4: Update Realtek Audio Driver

Many laptops use Realtek audio drivers, and outdated drivers can cause low volume issues.

• Right-click the Start button.
• Open Device Manager.
• Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
• Right-click Realtek Audio.
• Click Update driver.
• Select Search automatically for drivers.

Restart the laptop after updating the driver.

Method 5: Configure Speaker Settings in Control Panel

Windows speaker configuration can also affect sound output.

• Open Control Panel.
• Click Hardware and Sound.
• Open Sound.
• Select Speakers and click Configure.
• Choose Stereo.
• Click Next and finish the setup.

This ensures your laptop uses the correct speaker configuration.

Method 6: Enable Hardware Accelerated Audio

Hardware acceleration improves sound processing on many laptops.

• Open Settings.
• Go to System.
• Open Sound.
• Scroll to Advanced.
• Enable Hardware Accelerated Audio if available.

This can improve both volume and sound clarity.

Common Problems & Fixes

Laptop speaker volume still low after settings change
Restart your laptop after applying all sound settings.

Sound works only with headphones
Update the Realtek audio driver or reinstall the driver.

Volume automatically decreases
Disable Communication sound reduction in sound settings.

Laptop speaker distorted or unclear
Check the speaker grills and clean dust that may block sound.

Conclusion

Low laptop speaker volume is usually caused by incorrect Windows sound settings or outdated drivers. By enabling Loudness Equalization, setting the highest Hz frequency, updating the Realtek audio driver, and adjusting speaker settings, you can easily increase laptop speaker volume on Dell, ASUS, HP, Acer, MSI and other Windows laptops. These methods are safe, simple, and do not require installing any third-party tools.

How to Change Sound Output Device to Fix No Sound Issue in Windows 11

FAQ

Why is my laptop speaker volume very low?
Low laptop speaker volume can happen due to disabled sound enhancements, outdated Realtek drivers, or incorrect speaker frequency settings.

Does Loudness Equalization increase laptop sound?
Yes, enabling Loudness Equalization boosts quieter audio and makes laptop speakers louder.

Which Hz setting is best for laptop speakers?
Selecting the highest available Hz (such as 48000 Hz) usually gives better sound performance.

Can updating Realtek drivers increase sound volume?
Yes, installing the latest Realtek audio driver can fix low sound problems and improve audio output.

Fix BookMyShow Ticket Transfer Not Showing, No Contacts Showing – Send M-Ticket to Friends & Family

If you have booked a ticket and want to send it to your friends or family but the Transfer Ticket option is not showing or contacts are not visible, this guide will help you fix the issue. Many users face this problem while transferring match tickets, movie tickets, IPL tickets, and event tickets on BookMyShow. Follow the numbered steps below to solve the problem quickly.

1. The Transfer Ticket option may be available only a few days or hours before the match, movie, or event. Open your ticket in BookMyShow, read the ticket details and policy, and check when the transfer option will be enabled.

2. Before sending the ticket, the receiver must install the BookMyShow app, register using their phone number, and give that same number to the sender. The sender must save that number in their phone contacts, otherwise the contact will not appear in the transfer list.

3. Once the transfer option is available, open the BookMyShow app, go to Your Orders, open your booked ticket, tap Transfer Ticket, select the ticket, tap Proceed, search and select the saved contact, and send the ticket. The receiver will get an SMS with a link, tap the link, accept the ticket, and it will be saved in their BookMyShow account.

4. If contacts are not showing in the transfer list, completely log out of the BookMyShow app, log in again with the same number, and check the transfer option.

5. If the issue is still not fixed, go to phone Settings → Apps → BookMyShow → Storage → Clear Cache and Clear Data, open the app again, and log in with the same number.

6. If you are using an iPhone and the transfer option or contacts are not showing, log out from the iPhone and log in on an Android phone using the same number or ID. Many users have fixed the transfer issue using Android.

7. If none of the above methods work, open the Help section in BookMyShow, contact BookMyShow Support, and raise a request using your booking ID.

Conclusion

BookMyShow ticket transfer problems usually happen because of transfer timing restrictions, unsaved contacts, login issues, or app cache problems. By checking the transfer window, saving the correct phone number, re-logging into the app, clearing data, or using an Android device, you can easily transfer your ticket to friends and family without any error.

FAQ

Why is the Transfer Ticket option not showing?
It becomes available only a few hours or days before the event as per BookMyShow policy.
Why are my contacts not showing?
The receiver’s number must be saved in your phone contacts and they must have a BookMyShow account with the same number.
Does the receiver need the BookMyShow app?
Yes, they must install the app and register with their phone number to accept the ticket.
Can I transfer tickets from iPhone?
Yes, but if contacts are not showing, log in on an Android device and transfer the ticket.
How does the receiver get the ticket?
They will receive an SMS link, tap it, accept the ticket, and it will be saved in their BookMyShow account.
What if nothing works?
Contact BookMyShow support from the Help section with your booking ID.

Windows 11 25H2 New Start Menu – Features, Release Status, and Why You Should Wait for the Official Update

Windows 11 users are finally getting the redesigned Start Menu with the Windows 11 25H2 update, and it brings a cleaner layout, better app organization, improved recommendations, and smoother performance. If you haven’t received the new Start Menu yet, don’t worry—Microsoft is rolling it out in phases, so many PCs will get it soon through Windows Update. Some users are using third-party tools to force the new design, but the safest and most stable option is to wait for the official release because unofficial methods can break future updates, cause UI bugs, and reduce system stability.

Why you should keep Windows 11 updated

Keeping Windows 11 updated ensures you receive the latest features, security patches, performance improvements, and UI upgrades like the new Start Menu. Open Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates → Download & install → Restart PC to stay on the latest build. Enabling Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available helps you receive feature rollouts faster.

New Start Menu in Windows 11 25H2 – What’s new

The new Start Menu in Windows 11 25H2 introduces a more modern and customizable layout with better space usage and smarter app access. You get a wider Start Menu option, improved pinned apps grid, and a more useful Recommended section that shows recent files and apps more accurately. The All apps view is faster and smoother, with better alphabetical grouping. Microsoft has also improved animation speed, search responsiveness, and touch optimization for tablets and touch laptops.

You can now manage pinned apps more easily with drag-and-drop improvements, remove recommendations quickly, and get better integration with Microsoft account activity and recently used content. Performance is noticeably smoother on low-end PCs, and the Start Menu opens faster compared to previous versions.

Other features in Windows 11 25H2

Windows 11 25H2 also includes overall system performance improvements, better memory management, faster File Explorer response, and improved search indexing. The update brings stability fixes, security enhancements, and better background app handling. Some builds also show improved widgets performance and smoother taskbar animations. Gaming performance and GPU scheduling stability have been refined, especially on newer hardware.

Didn’t get the new Start Menu yet?

If the new Start Menu hasn’t appeared on your PC, it simply means the feature hasn’t rolled out to your device yet. Microsoft uses a gradual rollout based on hardware compatibility and region. Avoid using third-party Start Menu replacement apps because they can cause crashes, break system files, and create issues with future Windows updates. The official update will bring the new design automatically once it’s ready for your system.

How to prepare for the update

Open Settings → Windows Update → Advanced options → Turn on Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available, then check for updates regularly and keep your PC restarted after installing updates. Make sure you are signed in with a Microsoft account and your system is fully updated to the latest cumulative build.

Conclusion

The new Start Menu in Windows 11 25H2 is a major visual and usability improvement with better layout, faster performance, and smarter recommendations. If you haven’t received it yet, the best approach is to keep your system updated and wait for the official rollout instead of using third-party tools. This ensures maximum stability, security, and full compatibility with future Windows features.

FAQ

Is the new Start Menu available for everyone?
It is rolling out gradually, so some users will get it later.
Can I force enable the new Start Menu?
It is not recommended because unofficial methods may break Windows updates.
How do I get Windows 11 25H2?
Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates and install the latest feature update when available.
Will the new Start Menu improve performance?
Yes, it opens faster, uses memory more efficiently, and has smoother animations.

How to Show Live Cricket Score on iPhone Dynamic Island

Want to see live cricket score on iPhone Dynamic Island and lock screen without opening the app again and again? With Live Activities, your iPhone can show real-time runs, wickets, and overs for IPL 2026 live score and T20 World Cup 2026 live score directly on the Dynamic Island. Follow the methods below to make it work perfectly.

Method 1: Play Match → Fully Minimize the App

Open JioHotstar, SonyLIV, Cricbuzz, or ESPN
Play your favourite live match
Wait 5–10 seconds for the live stream to start
Now swipe up and completely minimize the app
Live score will appear automatically on Dynamic Island + Lock Screen

This works because iPhone activates Live Activities when a live match is running.

Method 2: Press Back → Then Minimize

Open the match inside JioHotstar / SonyLIV / Cricbuzz / ESPN
Start the live match
Press Back once (go to match info screen, not home screen)
Now swipe up to minimize the app
Dynamic Island will show real-time live score

This method forces the app to trigger Live Activities.

Method 3: Enable Live Activities (Most Important Setting)

If score is not showing, your Live Activities may be OFF.

Open Settings
Tap Face ID & Passcode
Scroll down → Turn ON Live Activities

Now enable it for the app:

Open Settings
Scroll down → Tap JioHotstar / SonyLIV / Cricbuzz / ESPN
Tap Live Activities
Turn ON Allow Live Activities

Also check:
Open Settings → Notifications → App → Allow Notifications

Supported iPhones

Dynamic Island works on:
iPhone 14 Pro / Pro Max
iPhone 15 series
iPhone 16 series

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use Cricbuzz or ESPN for fastest ball-by-ball score updates
Keep internet ON in background
Do not force close the app
Lock the screen → score will still update

Common Problems & Fixes

Live score not showing → Enable Live Activities in Settings
Score stopped updating → Open app once and minimize again
Dynamic Island not showing → Your iPhone model may not support it
Only lock screen showing → App may not support Dynamic Island yet

Conclusion

You can easily track IPL 2026 live score and T20 World Cup 2026 live score on your iPhone Dynamic Island by simply playing the match and minimizing the app. If it does not work, enabling Live Activities in both iPhone settings and the app settings will fix the issue. Once enabled, you will get real-time cricket updates on the Dynamic Island and lock screen without opening any app.

FAQ

Can I see live cricket score without opening the app?
Yes, once Live Activities is enabled and you start a match, the score appears automatically.

Which app is best for Dynamic Island live score?
Cricbuzz and ESPN provide the fastest and most stable live score updates.

Does it work for IPL 2026 and T20 World Cup 2026?
Yes, it works for all live matches supported by the app.

Why is only lock screen showing score but not Dynamic Island?
Either the app does not support Dynamic Island or Live Activities is disabled.

Does it drain battery?
No, Live Activities uses very little battery.

How to Fix Windows PC Using CPU Instead of GPU (Graphics Card Not Working)

If your Windows PC is using the CPU instead of the dedicated GPU, games will lag, rendering will be slow, and the graphics card may look like it is not working. This usually happens due to missing drivers, wrong graphics settings, power limits, or the GPU not being selected for apps. Follow the methods below to force Windows to use your NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel GPU for gaming and high-performance apps.

This guide covers driver installation, Windows graphics settings, control panel 3D settings, power mode changes, and manual driver installation so your GPU works properly.

Method 1 — Install Proper Graphics Driver from Device Manager and Install Control Panel

Open Device Manager → Expand Display adapters → Right-click your GPU → Click Update driver → Select Search automatically for drivers → Let Windows install the latest driver → Restart the PC.
If your GPU shows as Microsoft Basic Display Adapter, right-click it → Click Update driver → Install the correct driver → Restart.
Open Microsoft Store → Search NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Software → Install it → Open the control panel to confirm the GPU is detected.

Method 2 — Set GPU for Apps in Windows Graphics Settings and Enable Hardware Acceleration

Open Settings → Go to System → Open Display → Click Graphics → Click Browse → Add your game or app → Click the app → Select Options → Choose High performance (GPU) → Click Save.
Scroll down in Graphics settings → Turn Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling ON → Restart the PC.

This forces Windows to use the dedicated GPU instead of the CPU for selected apps.

Method 3 — Add Program in NVIDIA or AMD 3D Settings

Open NVIDIA Control Panel → Go to Manage 3D settings → Open Program Settings → Click Add → Select your game or app → Set Preferred graphics processor to High-performance NVIDIA processor → Click Apply.
For AMD → Open AMD Software → Go to Gaming → Add your game → Set Graphics profile to High performance → Apply changes.
This ensures the GPU is used for rendering instead of the integrated graphics.

Method 4 — Change Power Mode to High Performance

Open Control Panel → Go to Power Options → Select High performance or Ultimate performance → Click Change plan settings → Set everything to maximum performance → Apply → Restart PC.
On laptops, plug in the charger because many systems disable the GPU on battery mode.

Method 5 — Manually Install Graphics Driver from Manufacturer Website

Go to the official website of your GPU brand → Download the latest driver:
NVIDIA → GeForce Driver Download
AMD → Radeon Drivers
Intel → Intel Graphics Drivers
Select your exact GPU model → Download the latest WHQL driver → Run the installer → Choose Clean installation if available → Restart the PC.
Manual installation fixes GPU not detected, missing control panel, and CPU usage instead of GPU.

Common Problems and Fixes

GPU not showing in Device Manager → Enable it in BIOS or reseat the GPU in desktop.
Laptop using integrated graphics → Set High performance GPU in both Windows Graphics and Control Panel.
Game still using CPU → Add the game EXE file manually in Graphics settings and 3D settings.
Control panel missing → Install it from Microsoft Store or reinstall drivers.

Conclusion

If your Windows PC is using CPU instead of GPU, the issue is almost always related to drivers, wrong graphics selection, or power settings. Installing the correct driver, forcing high-performance GPU in Windows and NVIDIA/AMD control panel, enabling hardware acceleration, and switching to high-performance power mode will make your graphics card work properly for gaming and rendering.

FAQ

Why is my PC using CPU instead of GPU?
Because the dedicated GPU is not selected, drivers are missing, or power mode is set to balanced.
Should I turn on hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling?
Yes, it improves performance and reduces CPU load in most modern systems.
Do I need to install drivers from the manufacturer website?
Yes, manual installation gives the latest driver and fixes GPU detection issues.
Why is my GPU not showing in games?
Add the game manually in Windows Graphics settings and NVIDIA/AMD 3D settings and select High performance GPU.
Does high performance power mode increase GPU usage?
Yes, it allows the GPU to run at full performance instead of power saving mode.

How to Fix Can’t Select Multiple Files in a Folder in Windows

If you are unable to select multiple files inside a folder and Windows only lets you select one item at a time, the problem is usually caused by File Explorer glitches, Sticky Keys, selection settings, or mouse/keyboard behavior. Normally you should be able to use Ctrl, Shift, or drag your mouse to select multiple files, but when this stops working it becomes very frustrating. Below are the most effective methods to restore normal multi-select in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Restart Windows Explorer

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, find Windows Explorer under the Processes tab, right-click it and choose Restart, wait a few seconds for the taskbar and folders to refresh, then open any folder and try selecting multiple files again using Ctrl or Shift.

Use Ctrl, Shift, and Mouse Selection Properly

Open any folder and first try holding Ctrl while clicking multiple files one by one, if that does not work then click the first file, hold Shift, and click the last file to select the whole range, if both fail then hold Ctrl + Shift together and select files with your mouse to force multi-selection mode.

Turn Off Sticky Keys and Filter Keys

Press Windows + I to open Settings, go to Accessibility → Keyboard, turn Sticky Keys and Filter Keys Off, also disable the option that allows shortcut keys to enable them, close Settings and test file selection again.

Disable Check Boxes for Item Selection

Open File Explorer, click the View menu then Show, uncheck Item check boxes, close the folder and reopen it, now try selecting multiple files using Ctrl or Shift to confirm the issue is fixed.

Reset Folder Options

Open File Explorer Options from the search bar, go to the General tab and click Restore Defaults, then open the View tab and click Reset Folders, apply the changes and restart File Explorer to restore default selection behavior.

Enable Double-Click to Open Items

Open File Explorer Options, under Click items as follows select Double-click to open an item (single-click to select), apply the setting and test multi-select again because single-click mode can sometimes interfere with normal selection.

Conclusion

The “can’t select multiple files” issue in Windows is usually not a serious bug and can be fixed by restarting Windows Explorer, disabling Sticky Keys, correcting selection settings, or resetting folder options. After applying these methods you should be able to use Ctrl, Shift, and mouse drag to select multiple files normally in any folder.

FAQ

Why can I only select one file at a time in Windows?
This usually happens due to Sticky Keys, single-click mode, File Explorer glitches, or selection check boxes being enabled.
Ctrl and Shift keys are not selecting multiple files, what should I do?
Turn off Sticky Keys and Filter Keys, restart Windows Explorer, and test your keyboard to make sure the keys are working properly.
Does this fix work on Windows 11?
Yes, all the methods above work on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Will resetting folder options delete my files?
No, resetting folder options only restores default settings and does not affect your files or folders.