app launcher Archives

Winsage

February 22, 2025

Hands-on: Ueli is a launcher you can use on Windows, macOS, and Linux — and it’s pretty good

Ueli is a cross-platform app launcher compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing a consistent user experience across these operating systems. The Windows and macOS versions are similar in functionality and design, though the Linux version is untested. Ueli offers a uniform interface with plugins that function identically on both Windows and macOS, but lacks a synchronization feature for settings across devices. Users can customize various aspects of their experience, including themes and search engines, but face limitations such as the inability to define specific prefixes for launching extensions. Ueli includes around 20 extensions, many disabled by default, which limits its versatility compared to competitors like Raycast and Flow Launcher. A notable feature is the Workflows extension, allowing users to create custom task sequences with a single command, although linking applications within workflows can be cumbersome on Windows. Overall, Ueli shows promise but has limitations that prevent it from fully competing with established tools.

Winsage

February 15, 2025

8 tools that will change how you use Windows

Windows 11 offers a variety of features and a vibrant ecosystem of third-party applications, but users often find the default experience lacking in productivity. Several tools are available to enhance the Windows experience: 1. EarTrumpet: A comprehensive volume mixer that allows users to control audio for each application and playback device seamlessly. 2. Twinkle Tray: Simplifies brightness adjustments across multiple monitors directly from the taskbar and offers automation features based on the time of day. 3. Everything: A lightweight search tool that indexes files quickly, allowing for instantaneous local file searches. 4. OneCommander: A dual-pane file management tool that enhances navigation and organization of files with features like color-coded labels and advanced previews. 5. Start11: Customizes the Start menu, allowing users to choose styles, create folders and groups, and integrate File Explorer folders for quick access. 6. Rainmeter: A platform for extensive customization of the Windows interface with community-driven skins and widgets. 7. PowerToys: Includes utilities like FancyZones for creating custom window layouts, enhancing multitasking efficiency. 8. Flow Launcher: A powerful search and app launcher that streamlines workflows by enabling users to perform tasks using just their keyboard. These applications collectively improve the Windows 11 experience by addressing common issues and enhancing productivity.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

From ordinary to extraordinary: Seelen UI transforms Windows 10/11 into the OS you’ve always wanted — download it now!

Windows 10 and 11 have a functional but sterile design characterized by flat icons and a muted color palette. Seelen UI is a free tool that allows users to customize their Windows desktop experience, offering features like adjustable menus, widgets, and a Tiling Windows Manager for better multitasking. It includes an integrated media module and an app launcher inspired by Rofi. Users can easily modify themes, taskbar layouts, and icons. Seelen UI requires the WebView runtime and Microsoft Edge for optimal functionality, with installation options including the Microsoft Store, Winget, and a .msix installer. The recent update to version 2.0.9 introduced enhancements such as XboxGameBarWidgets.exe, refactoring of themes, and fixes for window manager issues and resolution changes. Additional information and download options are available on their GitHub page.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

Microsoft: Windows 11 24H2 ditches Defender Application Guard and browser extensions on Edge

Microsoft has confirmed the deprecation of Microsoft Defender Application Guard (MDAG) in the Windows 11 24H2 update, with the feature set to be phased out by June 2024. This change primarily affects enterprise users and does not significantly impact home users. MDAG, previously known as Windows Defender Application Guard, was designed to enhance security by isolating potentially harmful websites in a secure virtual machine environment. The associated Windows Isolated app launcher APIs have also been eliminated. Microsoft stated that the latest version of Windows 11 includes robust security measures that make MDAG unnecessary, and the enhanced security features in Microsoft Edge protect users from threats like phishing and data loss. Additionally, Microsoft has removed WordPad in the Windows 11 24H2 update.

Winsage

October 19, 2024

Fed up with Windows 11’s look? New mod lets you revamp the desktop, including the floating taskbar once seen in a Windows 12 leak

A new mod called Seelen UI offers a fully customizable desktop environment for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users. Key features include a Tiling Windows Manager that organizes open windows for better multitasking, a revamped system tray, and a floating taskbar that can be repositioned vertically. The mod also includes Rofi for additional customization. Microsoft Edge is required for Seelen UI to function, and users must reinstall it if removed. The aesthetic of Seelen leans towards a modern, Mac-like design. Users are advised to download the app from the Microsoft Store for safety and to consider testing it in a virtual machine due to its ongoing development.

Winsage

October 17, 2024

One of the most powerful unofficial Windows customization tools finally released

Seelen UI is a mod for Windows 11 and 10 that allows users to customize the taskbar's position and includes an app launcher similar to Rofi on Linux. It enhances user interaction with the operating system and provides an alternative to Microsoft's default interface. Users can download Seelen UI from the Microsoft Store or install it manually via GitHub or Winget.