aesthetics Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows Logo: A Visual Evolution of Microsoft’s Iconic Designs

- Windows 1.0 and 2.0 did not have a distinct logo and relied on traditional Microsoft branding. - Windows 3.1 introduced the iconic four-pane window logo, marking a significant shift in branding. - The logos for Windows 95 and 98 featured a cleaner Sans-Serif font and represented an evolution in branding. - Windows ME had a revamped logo aimed at a younger audience, featuring a green frame. - Windows XP introduced a bold, expressive logo with a 3D effect, marking a new era in branding. - Windows Vista's logo embraced glassmorphism and was consistent with Windows 7, showcasing a glossy finish. - Windows 8 introduced a flat blue logo reflecting minimalism and the new Metro UI. - Windows 10 retained a minimalist approach with a darker shade of blue logo. - Windows 11 featured a straighter, more minimalistic logo with slight curvature of the edges.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 leak hints at a new UI designed for gaming handhelds

Microsoft is tailoring Windows 11 for the handheld gaming market by exploring a dedicated game mode for portable devices. The latest preview build includes references to a gaming-centric interface that allows users to select their preferred system layout at startup, featuring a fullscreen experience with customizable home apps and shortcuts. Users can activate this mode through OS settings, establishing it as the default interface. The build includes options like “Boot into the full screen experience at device startup” and “Choose your full screen experience,” resembling Steam’s Big Picture mode. These changes may also be integrated into a rumored Xbox handheld, potentially leading to a Windows 11 device rather than a standalone portable Xbox. The new features are linked to the existing Game Bar, which provides essential gaming functionalities. This shift towards a dedicated UI for handheld devices is seen as necessary, as Windows has historically prioritized keyboard and mouse interactions. The evolution could position Windows handhelds as a compelling option for gamers, especially in light of competition from Valve's SteamOS.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Google Maps is giving your ETA screen a glow-up on Android

Google Maps is updating its interface in version 25.13.06 to streamline trip details and enhance user experience. The estimated time of arrival (ETA) is now displayed larger and more prominently, while distance information has been moved to a secondary position. The redesign allows for easier access to additional details like fuel efficiency, parking, and toll costs without navigating through multiple menus. The update is being rolled out across all transport modes but is server-side, so user experiences may vary.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Why Jason Momoa Thinks IMAX Will Make ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Unmissable

A Minecraft Movie follows four ordinary individuals who are transported into the Minecraft universe, where they must work with a master builder to navigate challenges. The film features stunning visuals that bring the game's aesthetics to life, including lush forests and colossal structures. Jason Momoa and Jack Black lead the cast, with Momoa encouraging audiences to watch it in IMAX for a better experience. The movie is set to be released in theaters this Friday.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

The First Berserker: Khazan

The First Berserker: Khazan is a hardcore action RPG that has received critical acclaim for its intense combat and immersive gameplay. It achieved a perfect score of 100 from screenrant.com, which praised its exceptional gaming experience despite some desires for more weapon types and an open-world environment. Noisypixel.net rated it 90, highlighting thrilling boss fights and diverse level design, while acknowledging weaknesses in narrative depth. Gamingtrend.com and pcmag.com both scored it 80, commending the combat systems and anime aesthetics but noting storytelling and level design shortcomings. Rockpapershotgun.com offered a more critical perspective, describing the plot and level design as uninspiring but recognizing the satisfying combat and challenging boss encounters.

AppWizard

March 30, 2025

Hyundai’s new Android-based infotainment software looks like Tesla’s.

Hyundai Motor Group will launch its Android-based infotainment software, Pleos Connect, in the second quarter of 2026. It is built on Google’s Android Automotive OS and aims to enhance connectivity within vehicles and with urban infrastructure. The software features an intuitive design, cloud integration for real-time updates, customizable user experiences, and enhanced connectivity for various applications and services. An annual conference has been inaugurated to expedite the development of Pleos and the broader “Cloud Mobility” software ecosystem.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

How to restore a more classic Start menu to Windows 11

The Open-Shell-Menu utility allows users to restore the classic Start menu in Windows 11, reminiscent of Windows 7. It is lightweight and free to use, but may trigger browser warnings during installation. To install, users can run the command winget install --id Open-Shell.Open-Shell-Menu in an elevated Command Prompt. After installation, users can configure the Start menu by accessing Open-Shell Menu Settings, where they can choose from different styles, including Classic, Classic with two columns, and Windows 7 style. Users can also customize the Start button and select a skin, with the Windows Aero option recommended for a cohesive desktop experience. The utility includes features for modifying the Start menu items and reintroduces the classic bar for File Explorer. Users can disable the Classic Explorer Bar if desired.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

Minecraft Movie Starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa Is Out Next Week

“A Minecraft Movie” is set to be released on April 4, 2025, as the first live-action adaptation of the popular video game. The film is directed by Jared Hess and features Jason Momoa as Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison, Jack Black as Steve, Emma Myers as Natalie, Danielle Brooks as Dawn, and Jennifer Coolidge in a mysterious role. Production wrapped in April 2024, and the film will be available in standard theaters and IMAX. The storyline follows four misfits who are transported into the Overworld of Minecraft, where they must learn to build, craft, and survive with the help of Steve. The film aims to recreate Minecraft’s aesthetics using CGI and will include familiar gameplay mechanics and beloved creatures from the game. Promotional events include McDonald’s themed Happy Meals launching on April 1, 2025, featuring collectible toys and a new sauce. An in-game event titled “A Minecraft Movie” will run from March 25 to April 7, 2025, offering quests and rewards in Minecraft. The film is expected to receive a PG rating and has a rumored runtime of approximately 108 minutes. The marketing campaign targets both fans and new audiences through digital promotions and merchandise. The film's visual effects team aims to blend practical and digital effects to authentically represent Minecraft's mechanics. The score is composed by Mark Mothersbaugh, and the cinematography is handled by Enrique Chediak. Mojang Studios is involved in the production to ensure the film aligns with the game's spirit. The film's themes include adventure, community, and creativity, reflecting the core elements of Minecraft. Initial fan reactions to the trailer have been mixed, but anticipation remains high.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

From pixels to pinot: The Windows XP ‘Bliss’ wallpaper hill was real and this is what it looks like now

Windows XP is celebrated for its user-friendly interface and vibrant aesthetics, particularly the "Bliss" wallpaper, which features a real location in Sonoma County, California. The photograph was taken by Charles O’Rear in 1996 and sold to Microsoft before the operating system's launch in 2001. The original image has a resolution of 4,510 by 3,627 pixels, compared to the 800 by 600 pixel version included with Windows XP. Over time, the depicted hill transformed into a vineyard, reflecting Sonoma County's role in California's wine production, which contributed approximately 6% of the state's output in 2021. Microsoft ended support for Windows XP in 2014, with the last version ceasing in 2019. Windows XP was a significant advancement over its predecessors and was used on the International Space Station until it was replaced by Linux in 2013. Windows 11 was released in 2021, with indications that 2025 will focus on a "Windows 11 PC refresh."

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Minecraft – Official Spring to Life Launch Trailer

Mojang has released the Spring to Life update for Minecraft, introducing new features such as spring-themed biomes, new mob variants, and enhanced sounds. The update aims to enhance the game's aesthetics and mechanics, inviting players to explore the refreshed landscapes. The Spring to Life update is now available for all players.