alternative methods

Winsage
June 17, 2025
Microsoft's Feedback Hub was created to collect user suggestions for improving Windows 11. Five highly requested features identified by users include: 1. The ability to move the taskbar to the top or side of the screen, which has received 24,046 votes. 2. The option to completely disable recommendations in the Start menu, as users want to hide them permanently. 3. The ability to change the default search engine in Windows 11, which currently defaults to Bing and Microsoft Edge, with no plans for broader availability beyond the European Economic Area. 4. A reduction in Windows 11’s system requirements to allow it to run on older hardware, as many users cannot upgrade from Windows 10 due to current requirements like TPM 2.0. 5. More options for taskbar icons to optimize space, as the existing "never combine" mode has inconsistent behavior that frustrates users.
AppWizard
June 13, 2025
Google introduced Android Instant Apps in 2017, allowing users to access a lightweight version of an app without full installation. However, Google has announced that support for Instant Apps will be discontinued in December 2025, meaning developers will no longer be able to publish new instant apps or receive support for existing ones. The decision is attributed to low user engagement, prompting a shift towards more effective app promotion methods, such as AI-driven highlights and simultaneous installations. Instant Apps required developers to create compact versions of their applications, which was challenging for complex apps. Most users were unaware of the feature, and its adoption was limited.
Winsage
May 11, 2025
Windows 11 includes various background services that can be disabled to enhance performance or privacy. Users can access the Services window by searching for "Services" in the search bar. Key services that may be unnecessary for many users include: - Windows Mobile Hotspot Service: Often unnecessary as most laptops lack a mobile data connection. - Fax: Rarely needed for personal computers. - Downloaded Maps Manager: Manages downloaded maps, likely to become less relevant with the deprecation of Windows Maps. - Certificate Propagation: Essential for smart card functionality; can be disabled if not using smart cards. - Windows Insider Service: Manages enrollment in the Windows Insider program; advisable to disable if not participating. - Parental Controls: Useful for families; can be disabled if the device is for personal use. - Windows Image Acquisition: Facilitates image acquisition from scanners and cameras; can be disabled if no scanner is used. - TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper: Aids communication with local network devices; can be disabled for most home users. - Xbox Live Game Save: Syncs save data with Xbox Live; unnecessary for users who primarily use other gaming platforms. - Connected User Experiences and Telemetry: Collects diagnostic data; disabling it can enhance privacy. Disabling these services may not lead to significant performance improvements but can create a more personalized computing experience. Users can re-enable any service if needed later.
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