AI enhancements Archives

Winsage

November 24, 2025

Microsoft adds tables support to Windows Notepad

Microsoft has introduced new features to Windows Notepad, including support for tables and AI enhancements like Summarize, Write, and Rewrite, which are available to users with Copilot+ PCs. The table support is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels. The AI features allow for quicker interaction with previews, but access requires a Copilot+ PC or a Microsoft account. The updates have raised concerns among users about Notepad straying from its original purpose as a simple text editor, with some feeling it is losing its identity.

Winsage

November 24, 2025

Microsoft’s Notepad; The Best Advertisement For Notepad++ There is

Notepad has transformed from a simple text editor into a more complex tool integrated with Microsoft accounts and AI features, which many users find unfavorable. The decision to phase out Wordpad has left users seeking alternatives. Notepad++ offers a customizable experience that allows users to add features selectively, catering to those who prefer simplicity. The changes to Notepad have led to increased frustration among users who valued its original straightforward functionality.

Winsage

November 23, 2025

Windows Users Furious at Microsoft’s Plan to Turn It Into an “Agentic OS”

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11, emphasizing its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) throughout the platform. The company aims to transform Windows into a “canvas for AI” with AI agents accessible from the taskbar to assist with tasks like background research and file management. However, user reception has been negative, with many expressing concerns about the new features on platforms like Reddit, suggesting alternatives like Linux. Despite the backlash, Microsoft continues to promote significant design changes, including the central placement of the Copilot AI assistant on the taskbar and enhancements to Windows File Explorer. The push for voice interaction aims to allow more natural communication with PCs, but raises privacy concerns regarding third-party access to personal files. Early reviews of the AI features have been mixed, with some users reporting ineffective experiences.

Winsage

November 22, 2025

How to manage AI actions in File Explorer on Windows 11

Microsoft has introduced AI enhancements in Windows 11, particularly in File Explorer, featuring "Ask Copilot" and "Semantic Indexing." AI actions have been added to the context menu, allowing users to perform tasks based on file types, with integration into Microsoft 365 apps, Photos, or Paint. The rollout began with the September 2025 Security Update, but users in Europe may experience delays in access. To enable AI actions in File Explorer, users should open Settings, click on Apps, select the Actions page, and turn on the AI actions. Users can engage with AI actions by right-clicking on image files (JPG, JPEG, PNG) and selecting options like Bing Visual Search, Blur Background, Erase Objects, Remove Background, and Describe Image. If Microsoft 365 apps are installed, users can summarize documents and convert tables without opening the apps. To disable AI actions, users can follow the same steps as enabling them but turn off the AI actions instead. The "AI actions" menu will still appear, but no active features will be displayed.

Winsage

November 21, 2025

As Windows turns 40, Microsoft faces an AI backlash

Microsoft is transforming Windows into an "agentic OS" by integrating advanced AI capabilities, as announced at the Ignite conference. The reception has been mixed, with users expressing concerns similar to those after the release of Windows 8. Windows chief Pavan Davuluri faced criticism on social media regarding the initiative, with users calling for a return to simpler interfaces like Windows 7. Despite acknowledging user pain points, many feel that the focus on AI features overshadows necessary improvements. The integration of AI tools like Copilot has received mixed reviews, with reports of unreliability. CEO Satya Nadella envisions a shift towards AI agents performing tasks, while also emphasizing the need for user control over their experience. Microsoft aims to balance innovation with user preferences, allowing users to opt-in to AI features at their own pace. Recent developments include a hotfix driver from Nvidia for Windows 11 performance issues, the return of a calendar feature to Windows 11, integration of Google's AI models into GitHub Copilot, and enhancements in security and performance for Windows and Office applications.

Winsage

November 15, 2025

Last Chance To Buy Microsoft Office Lifetime License For $40

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is available for a significant discount of approximately 81 percent off the regular price, offering a one-time purchase license for a single PC. The license includes essential applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and Publisher, and provides a lifetime key for use on one Windows computer without an expiration. Office 2021 features modern functionalities in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, but does not include the latest features available in Microsoft 365, which operates on a subscription model. Users can expect security patches and stability improvements for Office 2021, but no new features will be added. This offer is particularly beneficial for students, sole proprietors, and small teams using a single Windows PC. However, it may not be suitable for those needing multi-device support, substantial cloud storage, or Mac installations. Before purchasing, it is advisable to verify the seller’s reputation and ensure compatibility with system requirements.

Winsage

November 14, 2025

Don’t miss your chance to update to Microsoft Office 2024 for just $170 (Reg. $250)

Microsoft Office 2024 Home and Business is available for Mac and PC at a price of 9.97, reduced from 9.99, until November 16, 2025. This version includes Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, featuring AI enhancements for improved productivity and workflow. The suite offers offline access, robust security, and a user-friendly interface. Prices are subject to change.

Winsage

November 13, 2025

Microsoft’s Edge Incentive: Bribing Users with Gift Cards to Abandon Chrome

Microsoft is offering Microsoft Rewards points to Windows users who search for Chrome on Bing but choose to try Edge instead. This initiative began in late 2025 as part of Microsoft's efforts to increase Edge's market presence. Users can accumulate points that are redeemable for gift cards, with reports indicating an incentive of 1,300 points for trying Edge. Edge currently holds a market share of around 5-10%, significantly trailing Chrome, which has over 65% market share. Despite mixed user sentiment regarding Microsoft's campaigns, the company continues to promote Edge's features, such as resource efficiency and built-in tools like Copilot AI and coupon finders. Regulatory scrutiny exists around Microsoft's tactics, with concerns about potential anti-competitive behavior.

Winsage

October 17, 2025

Microsoft wants users talking to Windows 11 with new AI features

Microsoft is introducing updates to its Windows operating system to enhance user interaction through voice and artificial intelligence. A new feature allows users to activate the Copilot assistant by saying, “Hey, Copilot,” marking a shift towards voice as a third input method. The updates, rolling out to Windows 11 this week, include Copilot Vision, which visually interprets desktop content to troubleshoot issues and suggest design ideas. Microsoft aims to reimagine Windows for the AI era, addressing its declining relevance due to smartphone usage. Additional AI enhancements will integrate Copilot into the Windows search bar and enable it to extract information from emails and calendars, improving productivity and user experience.

AppWizard

September 27, 2025

Apple Built a ChatGPT-Like App You’ll—Likely—Never Get to Use

Apple has introduced an internal tool called Veritas, a chatbot application used by employees to aid in the development of Siri's upcoming AI enhancements. Veritas serves as a testing ground for generative AI technology and is not intended for public release. It allows Apple staff to manage conversations, store chats, and engage in dialogues on various topics. The tool supports the internal testing of new technologies for Siri, which is undergoing a significant overhaul codenamed Linwood, aimed at making Siri a more powerful personal assistant. This project has faced delays due to engineering challenges and has resulted in changes to Apple’s AI leadership. The upgraded Siri is expected to debut as early as March, with ongoing negotiations with external partners, including Google. Apple is also planning a redesigned voice assistant and AI-driven web search functionalities for future releases.