app list Archives

Winsage

August 10, 2026

Windows 11 26H2 Ships as an Enablement Package With Movable Taskbar, Local Search, and Default Cloud Recovery

Windows 11 version 26H2 is expected to launch around October 2026 as a small enablement package using the same Germanium platform as versions 24H2 and 25H2. Key enhancements include a movable taskbar, expanded Start menu controls, deeper Copilot integration, and new default cloud recovery settings for managed PCs. Users on versions 24H2 or 25H2 will experience a quick upgrade process requiring only one reboot. The taskbar will allow repositioning and smaller icon sizes, and the Start menu will have new configuration options and privacy settings. Search functionality will prioritize local content, with an option to disable web results. The update will enhance cloud-assisted setup and recovery for eligible Microsoft Entra devices, enabling automatic backup of settings and app lists. Copilot will be integrated into Search and File Explorer, and Windows Security will improve Administrator Protection. The support timeline for 26H2 will reset, offering 24 months for Home and Pro editions and 36 months for Enterprise and Education editions. Hardware requirements remain unchanged, and Arm devices on Windows 11 26H1 will not receive the 26H2 update.

Winsage

August 8, 2026

Windows 11 26H2 is a small update with big quality-of-life improvements, expected around October 2026

Windows 11 will undergo a significant transformation with the upcoming annual update, version 26H2, which introduces enhancements to the interface, search functionality, backup processes, and AI integration. The update will allow users to reposition the taskbar to any edge of the screen and adopt a smaller layout with reduced icon sizes. The Start menu will have new configuration options and a privacy feature for hiding account details during screen sharing. Search functionality will prioritize local content over web results, with an option to disable web results entirely. Cloud-assisted setup and recovery will become a default setting for eligible Microsoft Entra devices, automatically saving configuration settings and app lists. Copilot will be more integrated into daily operations, including a dockable side panel in File Explorer. Updates will also be made to traditional system tools, including a modernized Run dialog and enhanced security for administrator-level operations. The support timeline for Windows 11 installations will reset, with Home and Pro editions receiving 24 months of support and Enterprise and Education editions receiving 36 months. The hardware requirements remain unchanged, and the rollout of 26H2 is anticipated in the latter half of 2026, likely around October.

AppWizard

August 5, 2026

This Android launcher made my home screen fun again – and I’m using the free version

Mango Launcher is a home screen launcher for Android that is described as "minimal and fast," featuring playful physics effects that animate app icons. The free version includes premade themes, dynamic physics effects, a favorite apps section, three app list layouts, folders, frosted glass effects, accent color options, icon customizations, font selection, notification badges, and extensive customization options. The Pro version, available for .99 per year or a one-time fee of .99, adds widgets, custom themes, auto-changing wallpapers, custom gestures, scribble functionality, voice commands, and digital well-being tools. Users can modify the app drawer layout and customize the notification shade, although the latter remains unchanged by the launcher’s themes.

Winsage

July 3, 2026

Microsoft Edge finally lets you sign in with a Google account

Microsoft Edge has been updated to enhance compatibility with Google services, allowing users to sign in with their Google account for easier import of bookmarks and browsing history. This feature is part of a controlled rollout starting with version 150.0.4078.48 and is available for both Windows and macOS devices. Other updates include refined language for managing third-party cookie settings, Intune MAM protected downloads directing files to OneDrive, a DowngradeVersion policy for WebView2 applications, enhanced security for the "View in File Explorer" feature, and the ability for administrators to set severity thresholds for security update alerts. Additionally, the Sidebar app list has been retired.

AppWizard

May 23, 2026

Gemini Live redesign now works with more ‘Connected Apps’ on Android

Gemini Live on Android has expanded its integration capabilities, allowing access to a wider range of first- and third-party "Connected Apps." The update introduces a new floating interface that integrates Gemini Live into the text chat experience. Previously, it connected only with Google services and select third-party alternatives. The first-party app list now includes services such as Home, Hotels, Flights, Workspace, Image generation, Shopping, Utilities, YouTube, YouTube Music, and Spotify. The Utilities section introduces timers and alarms, but the ability to send Messages via Gemini Live is still forthcoming.

Winsage

May 5, 2026

Microsoft to retire Edge sidebar apps as part of Windows 11 simplification

Microsoft is retiring the sidebar app list feature from its Edge browser, starting with users signed in with a Microsoft account. The ability to add new apps to the sidebar has already been disabled, and existing pinned apps will be removed in a future update. Users will receive notifications prior to the full removal of the feature. Microsoft has not provided a direct replacement for the sidebar app list, and while features like Split Screen remain available, they do not replicate the sidebar's quick-access functionality. Microsoft plans to continue developing its Copilot integration within Edge, despite mixed user responses to the removal of the sidebar app list.

Winsage

May 4, 2026

Microsoft is simplifying Edge by removing the sidebar

Microsoft has announced the retirement of the sidebar app list in Microsoft Edge, affecting users with Microsoft accounts. New apps will no longer be added to the sidebar, and existing pinned applications will be phased out in an upcoming update. The popular Copilot feature will remain unaffected. Many users have expressed their intent to abandon Edge if the sidebar is removed. Microsoft plans to focus on refining existing functionalities across its platforms, including Windows 11 and Microsoft Edge, in 2026.

Winsage

April 30, 2026

Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users regarding its user experience and strict hardware requirements. Many users feel the OS is overloaded with features, including unwanted AI elements and pre-installed applications. In response, a customization community has emerged, with developers like Raditya Aryaputra proposing alternative designs, such as a "Refined" version of Windows 11 that focuses on a streamlined experience. Aryaputra's concept includes a compact Start menu without ads, a revamped Windows Search, and a simplified Widget panel. Microsoft is reportedly planning to reintroduce the movable and resizable project feature in its Windows K2 initiative, set for 2026. User options are limited as mainstream support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025, although an Extended Security Updates program is available temporarily. Microsoft has also redesigned the Start menu based on user feedback and is actively seeking input through Windows Insider meetups. Additionally, Microsoft has streamlined its AI strategy within Windows 11, removing Copilot from certain applications. A status tracker is available for users to follow changes related to the Windows K2 initiative.

Winsage

April 30, 2026

Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users regarding its hardware requirements and perceived overload of features. A customization community has emerged, with developers like Raditya Aryaputra proposing a "Refined" version of Windows 11 that focuses on essential features and a cleaner interface. This concept includes a compact Start menu without ads or forced recommendations and a more intuitive Windows Search. Microsoft is planning enhancements for Windows 11, internally referred to as Windows K2, set for a 2026 release, which may incorporate user feedback and ideas from Aryaputra's project. Microsoft has also redesigned the Start menu but received feedback that it is too large and lacks customization. The company is reintroducing Windows Insider meetups for user feedback and reassessing its AI strategy within Windows 11. Mainstream support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, pushing users towards Windows 11.

Winsage

March 6, 2026

Apple promotes Microsoft Office to lure Windows 11 users to its $599 MacBook Neo

Apple has introduced the MacBook Neo, a budget laptop priced at 9, targeting consumers who typically consider Windows PCs in the 0 range. The MacBook Neo emphasizes compatibility with Microsoft’s Office suite, featuring applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint prominently on its product page and in promotional materials. Apple has included a “Switch from PC to Mac” tab on the product page to assist Windows users in transitioning to macOS, despite potential challenges in adapting to a more controlled ecosystem. The marketing materials claim that macOS offers superior speed and efficiency compared to Windows, although the macOS versions of Microsoft Office do not match the feature set of their Windows counterparts. The MacBook Neo aims to attract budget-conscious consumers while potentially fostering long-term loyalty to Apple products.