application features Archives

AppWizard

March 21, 2025

I tested a $7 app that boosts FPS and resolution in any PC game. It’s amazing!

Lossless Scaling is a standalone application that enhances gaming by providing upscaling and frame generation capabilities for various PC games, regardless of the graphics card. It was initially developed for integer scaling of older pixel graphics games but has evolved to include enhancements similar to DLSS and FSR. The application features built-in upscalers using algorithms like FSR, LS1, and Integer scaling, serving as alternatives for games without support for advanced technologies. A key feature is the LSFG algorithm for Frame Generation, which can potentially double, triple, or quadruple frame rates, though it may introduce increased latency and some "unreal" generated frames. Lossless Scaling significantly improves performance in space simulation games, boosting frame rates from around 90 FPS to 140 FPS and enhancing complex scenes. It also benefits console ports with frame rate caps, such as Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered, where activating 2x Frame Generation can raise the frame rate from 60 FPS to 120 FPS, improving visual fluidity despite some input lag.

Winsage

March 3, 2025

5 reasons why you should use Notepad++ instead of Notepad on Windows 11

Notepad++ is an open-source text editing application that serves as a comprehensive replacement for the basic Notepad in Windows 11. It supports a wide range of file types beyond the limited formats of Notepad, including XML and JSON with proper formatting through plugins. Notepad++ offers syntax highlighting for over 80 programming languages, enhancing readability and reducing errors. It includes an advanced find and replace function with Regular Expressions (RegEx) for efficient bulk text editing. The application features a focused clipboard history that allows users to retrieve previously copied text easily. Additionally, Notepad++ has a rich plugin ecosystem that enables users to expand its functionality with features like spellcheck, FTP support, and code execution for various programming languages.

Winsage

December 14, 2024

4 top personal finance apps for Linux that run on MacOS and Windows, too

The transition from traditional banking to digital solutions in personal finance management has both advantages and challenges, particularly regarding user experience. Several open-source applications for financial management on Linux include: 1. GnuCash: A robust application for personal and business finances using a double-entry accounting system. It supports multiple accounts, investments, and currency conversions. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install gnucash -y - sudo dnf install gnucash -y - sudo flatpak install gnucash - sudo pacman -S gnucash 2. HomeBank: A user-friendly alternative to GnuCash, supporting various import formats and multiple currencies. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install homebank -y - sudo dnf install homebank -y - sudo pacman -S homebank 3. KMyMoney: Designed for personal finance management with support for multiple accounts and detailed reporting. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install kmymoney -y - sudo dnf install kmymoney -y - sudo pacman -S kmymoney 4. Skrooge: An application that supports various import formats and allows direct data import from bank websites. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install skrooge -y - sudo dnf install skrooge -y - sudo pacman -S skrooge These applications can also be installed via software centers like GNOME Software, KDE Plasma Discover, and Octopi.

AppWizard

November 26, 2024

Google preps new features for Android desktop windowing, including a minimize button

Google is enhancing the desktop windowing capabilities of Android with the upcoming release of Android 15 QPR1, which will introduce features such as buttons to minimize applications and the ability to open them in new windows. The desktop windowing feature allows users to operate multiple applications in resizable windows, with a taskbar for managing running and pinned applications. Users can activate desktop windowing by dragging a fullscreen app's pill or using a keyboard shortcut. A new “multi-instance property” for developers will enable apps to launch as multiple instances, and a minimize button will allow users to minimize and reopen application windows via the taskbar. The Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 release has also introduced an “app-to-web” feature for select applications, enhancing usability.

Tech Optimizer

November 17, 2024

Bitdefender Total Security review: Great, easy to use protection

Bitdefender Total Security is a mid-tier antivirus solution that includes antivirus, firewall, ransomware defenses, network, web, and email protection. It monitors for brute force attacks, malicious links, and harmful attachments, and offers a spam filter for Outlook and Thunderbird, as well as controls for webcam and microphone access. Additional features include a secure browser, limited VPN access, tracker blocking, parental controls, a vulnerability scanner, and anti-theft tools. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, though not all features are available on every platform. The pricing for Bitdefender Total Security includes a five-device plan for the first year, transitioning to a lower annual fee thereafter, and a ten-device plan with a similar pricing structure. Users can request refunds within 30 days of renewal or purchase, and discounts are available from various retailers. Installation is user-friendly, but users should be cautious during account setup. The application features a clean interface with a shield icon indicating security status. Bitdefender provides real-time protection, scheduled and manual scans, a vulnerability scanner, and controls over the Windows firewall. The VPN offers limited daily bandwidth. Customer support is available through various channels, including email, chat, and phone. In independent tests, Bitdefender has a 100% detection rate for zero-day attacks and a 99.6% success rate in real-world protection tests, with minimal impact on system performance, although it may slow down mid-range and budget PCs during intensive scans.

Winsage

August 11, 2024

Microsoft will axe the Paint 3D app soon — will be removed from the Microsoft Store in November, cementing classic Windows Paint’s revival | Tom’s Hardware

Paint 3D will be retired and will not be available in the Microsoft Store or receive future updates starting on November 4, 2024. It was launched in 2017 with a focus on 3D modeling and introduced features like layers, transparency effects, and background removal. However, user reception was mixed, leading Microsoft to keep both Paint 3D and the classic Paint app available on Windows 10 and 11. The classic Paint app has since received enhancements, including layers and auto background removal, and recently gained an AI-powered upgrade with the Cocreator feature for Microsoft Copilot users. The 3D functionalities of Paint 3D did not capture a mainstream audience, prompting Microsoft to merge sought-after features into the classic Paint app. Microsoft Paint has been a staple since its launch in 1985 and continues to receive updates, maintaining its relevance despite competition from more advanced software.