app icons Archives

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (KB5052078) has been released to the Beta Channel for Insiders not upgrading to version 24H2. This update includes new features such as a drag tray for easier file sharing, and two new views (grid and category) in the Start menu. Improvements include enhanced text scaling support in File Explorer, fixes for taskbar app window previews, and corrections for Japanese name formatting in Settings. Known issues involve delays in app icon appearances in the Start menu and slow closing of File Explorer for some users. Insiders can enable a toggle for immediate updates via Settings > Windows Update. Features may change or not be released based on testing and feedback.

Winsage

February 14, 2025

Microsoft makes another tweak to Windows 11’s taskbar – but it’s probably not the change you were hoping for

Microsoft has introduced a new icon on the Windows 11 taskbar that provides access to AI-driven Windows Studio Effects, which enhance video call quality with features like background blurring, simulated direct eye contact, improved lighting, and user centering. The icon appears when compatible applications are using the webcam, allowing users to see which application is accessing it, thus enhancing privacy. However, the feature is limited to devices with specific hardware requirements, including 16GB of RAM and a CPU with a neural processing unit (NPU), potentially restricting access for many users. This initiative is part of Microsoft's strategy to promote AI features, but user feedback has been mixed, with some expressing disappointment over the lack of traditional taskbar functionalities and questioning the necessity of these enhancements for professional use.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

Windows 11 Patch Tuesday arrives with taskbar changes, but not the ones you want

Microsoft has released its Patch Tuesday updates for all supported Windows systems, including Windows 11 24H2 (KB5051987) which addresses security issues and introduces enhancements such as improved Taskbar app previews and animations, a new system tray icon for apps using Windows Studio Effects, and a new simplified Chinese font, Simsun-ExtG. Additional File Explorer features include a “New Folder” option in the context menu, restoration of previously open tabs, and activation of specific settings for restartable apps. Security updates for Windows 10 and earlier versions focus primarily on system integrity rather than new features. The updates are available for various Windows versions, including Windows 11 24H2, 23H2, 22H2, and Windows 10 22H2 and 21H2, all accessible via the Microsoft Update Catalog.

BetaBeacon

February 4, 2025

Score These Premium Android & iOS Apps for Free

Android apps and games are available for free for a limited time, including Lineblack - Red Icon Pack, Business Card Maker—Logo Card, Meteoroid Icon Pack, Voice Calculator Pro, and Resume Builder—CV Maker.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Niagara Launcher, one of the best Android launchers, finally has backups

Niagara Launcher has released a "Winter Update" that includes a backup feature allowing users to securely save and restore their launcher settings, integrating with Android's backup system to archive settings to Google Drive. This feature is available in both free and pro versions and can be accessed through the app's settings. Additionally, a new tool called the Usage Breaker, exclusive to Niagara Pro users, helps manage screen time by reminding users of excessive app usage without restricting access. The launcher maintains a minimalist design with a vertically scrolling list of apps for easy navigation. The latest beta version is available for download, with updates rolling out to all users soon.

AppWizard

December 9, 2024

Surprise! Huawei’s HarmonyOS NEXT can run Android apps

Huawei has introduced HarmonyOS NEXT, an operating system that operates independently of Android and is designed to run only native applications. However, a workaround allows users to access Android apps through an emulator called "EasyAbroad," available in Huawei's AppGallery. All devices launching in 2025, including the Mate 70 series, will come pre-installed with HarmonyOS NEXT, which is currently in public beta testing. The "EasyAbroad" emulator enables users to install popular Android applications such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Google Search, Google Maps, Chrome, Gmail, Disney Plus, and Netflix (in SD quality only). The emulator includes its own app store but does not allow users to create individual app icons for the installed apps on their home screens. There may be limitations regarding notifications and alerts for these Android applications. The emulator operates smoothly, aided by microG, an open-source implementation of Google libraries that substitutes Google Play Services. Huawei's shift towards developing HarmonyOS began after being placed on the Entity List in 2019, which cut off its access to U.S. supply chains, including Google.

Winsage

December 8, 2024

Cyber Week is here—upgrade your slow PC with Windows 11 Pro, now less than $20

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97 during Cyber Week, a significant discount from its typical price of 9. It offers productivity and security enhancements, including an AI assistant called Copilot, a sleek interface, productivity tools like snap layouts and improved voice typing, and security features such as BitLocker device encryption and Smart App Control. Users should ensure their devices meet compatibility requirements before upgrading. The offer expires at 11:59 p.m. on the same day.

AppWizard

December 6, 2024

Here’s everything new Samsung’s Android 15 update, One UI 7, and the full changelog [Gallery]

Galaxy AI offers features for enhancing writing, including spelling and grammar correction, tone adjustment, summarization, and formatting. The Samsung Phone app includes a transcription feature for recorded calls, displaying conversations as text. One UI 7 introduces a redesigned aesthetic with new buttons, menus, notifications, and control bars. The Home screen has a new grid layout, customizable app icons, and larger folders for easier access. The Lock screen features a Now bar for essential tasks and customizable clock options. Quick settings and notifications are separated for efficient access, with customization options available. The camera interface has been improved for ease of use, with enhanced zoom controls and saved exposure settings. Users can erase unwanted objects in photos and create collages in the Gallery app. Samsung Health introduces a Mindfulness feature for stress management. One UI 7 enhances productivity with app previews and simplified alarm management. Calendar management includes drag-and-drop functionality and customizable widgets. Quick Share recommends devices for file transfers, and Knox Matrix provides a security overview. Battery settings allow users to customize power saving options and charging levels. Accessibility features include one-finger zoom and enhanced screen controls. Continuous improvements include video replay, a unified contacts list, and optimized gaming experiences.

Winsage

December 5, 2024

Windows 11 Canary build 27758 is out with several fixes for taskbar, File Explorer, and more

Microsoft has released a new preview build of Windows 11 for Canary users, specifically build 27758, which includes several enhancements: - File Explorer: The search box has been adjusted to prevent it from extending beyond the window's edge. - Taskbar: A fix has been made to prevent crashes of explorer.exe when right-clicking app icons. - Input: An issue with the mouse cursor becoming invisible over text fields in certain applications has been resolved. - Desktop: Improvements ensure desktop backgrounds display correctly across multiple monitors. - Task Manager: Work is ongoing to correct the alignment of the Mica background when resized with settings open. - Narrator: A crash issue at launch when using natural voices has been addressed. - Audio: Fixes prevent USB audio devices from going to sleep after one minute of inactivity and address unexpected mute/unmute sounds in certain headsets. - Settings: Crashes when selecting a default audio device have been rectified. - Other: An issue causing an unexpected black line along the top border of windows has been resolved. Known bugs include: - Users on Copilot+ PCs may experience issues with Windows Hello PIN and biometrics, leading to error 0xd0000225. - Rollbacks during installation of the latest Canary builds are under investigation. - Microsoft is addressing issues related to accent-colored window borders, shadows, and animations. - A new bugcheck issue with error PAGEFAULTINNONPAGEDAREA has been identified.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Buy Microsoft Office, Get Windows 11 Pro Free During Cyber Week

For .97, you can purchase a bundle that includes Microsoft Office 2021 and Windows 11 Pro, valued at 8. This offer provides a one-time payment option for a Microsoft Office Lifetime License, which includes applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Upon purchase, a download link and software license key will be sent via email, along with a Windows 11 Pro key for installation on two PCs. Windows 11 Pro features redesigned app icons, an AI assistant called Copilot, faster load times, enhanced security features, and advanced tools like BitLocker device encryption and Windows Sandbox. The offer represents an 87% savings during Cyber Week, but availability is limited. Prices on StackSocial are subject to change.