branding Archives

Winsage

May 7, 2025

An AI-driven ‘Fix it’ button is just what Windows needs

Microsoft is introducing a branding transformation with new Windows AI features in the latest Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, focusing on user experience enhancement through an advanced NPU in Copilot+ PCs. A key feature is the "agentic AI" in the Windows 11 Settings menu, which can autonomously research, troubleshoot, and resolve PC issues. For example, it can adjust screen brightness or text size based on user needs. The system includes a "Fix it" button that offers solutions for common problems, such as activating dark mode to reduce eye strain. This AI-driven approach aims to improve user satisfaction by providing straightforward solutions to specific issues.

AppWizard

April 16, 2025

The App Apocalypse: Why Messaging Will Replace Retail Apps in 2025

Standalone retail apps are predicted to become obsolete by 2025 due to advancements in Rich Communication Services (RCS) technology, which will enhance business-consumer interactions. RCS combines SMS simplicity with app interactivity, allowing consumers to engage with brands through enriched messaging experiences without needing to open separate apps. The development and maintenance costs of retail apps are significant, leading brands to reconsider their value as messaging offers similar or superior engagement at lower costs. By 2026, many brands are expected to adopt messaging-first strategies.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Microsoft starts lifting Windows 11 24H2 safeguard hold

Microsoft has begun lifting a compatibility hold on wallpaper customization applications for Windows 11, which had been in place for over six months since the release of Windows 11 24H2. The hold affected multiple applications, causing issues such as incorrect wallpaper display and disappearing icons. Microsoft confirmed that the hold is being removed incrementally as developers update their applications, although the reasons for the incompatibility remain unclear. Users may receive prompts to uninstall their wallpaper applications during the update process, and they are encouraged to update these applications for better compatibility. Some applications, like Wallpaper Engine, have already released updates to enhance compatibility with Windows 11 24H2. The resolution of compatibility issues will depend on the timing of application updates from developers.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

Pixel Weather is my favorite weather app; there’s just one problem with it

Google's Pixel Weather app was launched alongside the Pixel 9 series and is noted for its user-friendly design and comprehensive data offerings. It provides hourly and 10-day forecasts, sunrise and sunset times, humidity levels, visibility, air quality, and UV index, all presented in an easily digestible format. The app features an AI Weather Report for quick summaries and has a visually engaging design with bold temperature displays and animated backgrounds. Customization options allow users to rearrange tiles and widgets according to their preferences. Currently, Pixel Weather is exclusive to Pixel devices, limiting its accessibility compared to other essential apps available to all Android users. There is a suggestion for Google to make Pixel Weather available on the Play Store for all Android devices, potentially retaining some exclusive features for Pixel users.

AppWizard

April 7, 2025

Google built a dashcam app for cars with Android Automotive – not for Android Auto

Dashcams are important for vehicle owners as they document incidents during accidents. Google has developed a dashcam application for the Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS), which provides video recording capabilities to enhance safety and security. A recently discovered "Integrate Dashcam" page on Google's website outlines the technical requirements and integration steps for automakers, but the app is not yet available for download. The absence of the app from the market may be due to technical and legal challenges. It is important to note that this dashcam application is not related to Android Auto, and claims suggesting otherwise are misleading. The distinction between Android Auto and Android Automotive has been clarified, with the latter being recognized as AAOS or Google built-in.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

Microsoft changes the blue screen of death in Windows 11: why?

Microsoft has changed the blue screen of death to a green screen in its operating system, aligning it with the aesthetics of Windows 11. The new error screen features a simple message stating, “Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart,” along with a progress percentage and minimal technical details. Reports suggest that Microsoft may eventually switch the error screen color to black for future public releases. Additionally, the sad emoji and QR code previously found on the error screen have been removed.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows Logo: A Visual Evolution of Microsoft’s Iconic Designs

- Windows 1.0 and 2.0 did not have a distinct logo and relied on traditional Microsoft branding. - Windows 3.1 introduced the iconic four-pane window logo, marking a significant shift in branding. - The logos for Windows 95 and 98 featured a cleaner Sans-Serif font and represented an evolution in branding. - Windows ME had a revamped logo aimed at a younger audience, featuring a green frame. - Windows XP introduced a bold, expressive logo with a 3D effect, marking a new era in branding. - Windows Vista's logo embraced glassmorphism and was consistent with Windows 7, showcasing a glossy finish. - Windows 8 introduced a flat blue logo reflecting minimalism and the new Metro UI. - Windows 10 retained a minimalist approach with a darker shade of blue logo. - Windows 11 featured a straighter, more minimalistic logo with slight curvature of the edges.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Xbox fans lose it as new console is teased in mysterious trailer

A new Xbox-branded handheld console is set to launch later this year, developed in collaboration with ASUS. This device will not be a fully in-house creation but a partnership product. Recent trailers have hinted at Xbox branding on the ASUS ROG Ally gaming handheld, suggesting a fusion of technologies. The official Xbox Twitter account responded to ASUS's teaser trailer, indicating their collaboration. An official release date has not yet been announced.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

Asus’ latest video teases a possible Xbox gaming handheld

Microsoft has not confirmed plans for an Xbox-branded handheld gaming device, but unverified leaks suggest an announcement could occur this year. Asus is positioning itself as a potential partner, having launched devices like the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. A recent promotional video from Asus hints at a new handheld device that may incorporate Xbox elements, featuring a silhouette resembling an Xbox configuration. Speculation exists that this device could be a modified version of the ROG Ally X, potentially running Windows 11 and supporting Game Pass streaming. The promotional video included phrases suggesting hardware enhancements, but the reality of the project remains uncertain. There is skepticism about the feasibility of a dedicated handheld Xbox, given that many Xbox titles are already available on PC. The video was shared on March 31st, adding to the speculation surrounding its authenticity.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft is streamlining logins for Windows, Xbox, and M365

Microsoft is transforming its Microsoft Account (MSA) sign-in experience to create a modern interface across web and mobile platforms, with plans for Windows to follow. By the end of April, users will see a revamped login and registration process with a streamlined flow and fewer elements per screen. The update will optimize passwordless sign-ins through the introduction of passkeys, which will become the default method for future logins. If a passkey is not used, email-based logins will be the fallback option. The redesigned interface will feature consistent Microsoft branding, with a unified background image and color-themed buttons and links for different services. The rollout of this new experience is expected to be completed by the end of April.