clutter Archives

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Spotify Launches In-App Messaging for Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks – Tech | Business

Spotify has launched a messaging feature that allows users to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks within the app, aimed at enhancing its social aspect. This feature is limited to one-on-one conversations among users with existing Spotify connections. To start a conversation, a request must be sent and approved. Users can also receive chat requests from links shared on external platforms. Conversations can be accessed in a new Messages section, where users can react with emojis and revisit shared content. The feature is encrypted but not end-to-end, and Spotify will scan chats for harmful content. Users can report and block accounts, and have the option to disable messaging. Currently, the feature is available to users aged 16 and above in select Latin American markets, with plans for expansion. Both free and premium users can access it on mobile devices. Some users have raised concerns about the potential clutter from added features.

Winsage

August 26, 2025

5 “just-enough” open-source apps I install on every fresh Windows setup

A fresh installation of Windows provides a clean slate, but soon requires essential tools for tasks like file extraction, text editing, audio recording, and screen capturing. The following open-source tools are recommended: - 7-Zip: A lightweight file compression tool that supports various formats (.zip, .rar, .tar, .7z, .iso) and integrates into the right-click context menu. It is free and maintained by a community. - OBS Studio: An open-source software for gamers and content creators that excels in livestreaming and game recording, featuring customizable recording parameters and a replay buffer. - Audacity: A long-standing open-source audio editing software that is lightweight yet feature-rich, ideal for straightforward audio editing tasks and supports built-in effects and plugins. - Notepad++: An enhanced text editor that supports multiple programming languages and syntax highlighting, making it suitable for editing configuration files, with lightweight nature and plugin support. - ShareX: An open-source screenshot tool that offers advanced features and customizable workflows, improving upon the Snipping Tool for seamless screenshot management. The author values these tools for being free, open-source, and reliable, often preferring them over proprietary software.

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Spotify launches a messaging feature in a bid to become more social

Spotify has introduced a new messaging feature that allows users to chat with friends directly within the app. This feature retains a history of shared content and is currently limited to one-on-one conversations with individuals users have previously shared content with. Users on Family or Duo plans can connect through this feature, requiring approval for conversations. Users can access messages by tapping on their profile pictures, and they can react to messages with emojis. Messages are encrypted but do not use end-to-end encryption, and Spotify monitors them for compliance with policies. The feature is being rolled out to users aged 16 and older in select Latin and South American markets, with plans for expansion to other regions soon. Users have raised concerns about the app's interface, citing visual clutter, but there is an option to disable messages in the settings.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

Microsoft customer calls out company policy that will render thousands of devices useless: ‘Disgusting’

A computer user expressed concern on Reddit about Microsoft's Windows 11 system requirements, which may render many operational computers ineligible for security updates. The user highlighted their mother's eight-year-old Dell laptop, which, despite functioning well for basic tasks, will not meet the criteria for Windows 11 after Windows 10 support ends in October 2025. A Microsoft spokesperson stated that updating operating systems and hardware is essential to combat increasing security threats, as outdated software can lead to cyberattacks. The issue of forced obsolescence raises concerns about e-waste, as functional computers may be discarded due to incompatibility with new software, leading to environmental pollution and financial burdens for seniors and small businesses. Microsoft has defended its Windows 11 requirements as necessary for security, while also offering Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 at an additional cost. Communities are resisting forced obsolescence by using Linux on older machines and promoting responsible recycling initiatives. Refurbished computers are also being highlighted as a cost-effective alternative to reduce waste.

AppWizard

August 17, 2025

5 reasons I swapped Google Keep for this open-source app

The author has extensively explored various note-taking applications, including Google Keep, OneNote, and SimpleNote, ultimately transitioning to Outline, an open-source application that combines note-taking with personal knowledge management. Google Keep is appreciated for its simplicity but lacks depth, while OneNote's interface is seen as cluttered. Outline offers a clean, intuitive interface, supports markdown for rich formatting, and allows for interconnected note systems similar to a wiki. It integrates well with external tools and provides self-hosting options for data ownership. The author now uses Outline primarily for research, long-form writing, and journaling, finding it superior for serious note-taking compared to Google Keep and OneNote.

Winsage

August 17, 2025

Windows 11 cluttered Notepad’s right-click menu, but it’s now getting File Explorer-like UI as a fix

Microsoft is testing a new, streamlined user interface for Notepad's right-click context menu to address overcrowding caused by recent enhancements, including Copilot features. The existing menu has become unwieldy, featuring numerous options that can overwhelm users, particularly on smaller screens. The new design prioritizes common actions like cut, copy, paste, select all, undo, and delete in a single row with large icons, while retaining some less frequently used options. Additionally, Notepad now supports markdown formatting, allowing users to apply lightweight formatting such as bold and italics easily, with the option to toggle the formatting toolbar off for a simpler interface.

Tech Optimizer

August 15, 2025

Best Free Antivirus Software for 2025 | Top Picks & Reviews

eSecurity Planet maintains an editorially independent stance regarding content and product recommendations, with potential revenue generated from partner links. In 2025, the landscape of free antivirus software includes notable options such as: - Bitdefender Antivirus Free: - Best for users seeking reliable, hands-off protection. - Pros: High malware detection scores, minimal system impact, clean interface, automatic updates, low false-positive rate. - Cons: No control over advanced settings, no firewall or password manager. - Avast One Essentials: - Best for users wanting all-in-one protection. - Pros: Real-time protection, limited VPN and firewall, device cleanup tools, modern dashboard, multi-platform compatibility. - Cons: VPN limited to 5 GB per week, scrutiny over data privacy. - AVG AntiVirus Free: - Best for users preferring a classic interface. - Pros: Excellent malware protection, performance scan tool, file shredder, custom scan scheduling, fewer ads. - Cons: No VPN or firewall, outdated user interface. - Malwarebytes Free: - Best for users needing to clean infected devices. - Pros: Exceptional at scanning for rootkits, fast scan times, effective against ransomware, simple interface, low false positive rate. - Cons: No real-time protection, not a standalone solution. - McAfee (Free Trial): - Best for users wanting to test full-suite protection. - Pros: Access to full suite, protects multiple devices, clean interface, strong anti-phishing scores. - Cons: Trial expires after 30 days, may slow down older systems. The evaluation methodology focused on protection, usability, performance, free value, and trust to highlight effective free antivirus software. The top recommendations include Bitdefender Antivirus Free, Avast One Essentials for feature set, and Malwarebytes Free as an essential add-on.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

The 5 Best Telegram Client Apps for Android

Telegram's open API has led to the development of various alternative clients that enhance the user experience while maintaining the core messaging system. Notable alternatives include: 1. Nicegram: Offers minor adjustments for user convenience, such as easier moderation functions and prominently displayed chat folders. 2. Telegram X: Features faster performance and smoother transitions, utilizing a different codebase for improved speed and reduced battery consumption. 3. Plus Messenger: Provides extensive customization options, allowing users to modify visual elements and practical enhancements like additional pinned messages. 4. Nekogram / NekoX: Includes built-in message translation and enhanced privacy controls, appealing to users who prioritize privacy and multilingual communication. 5. Graph Messenger: Offers additional user controls, such as reading messages without appearing online and securing chats with a passcode. These clients are popular in 2025 due to their reliability and tailored enhancements, maintaining compatibility with Telegram's servers. User choice often depends on specific needs such as moderation tools, speed, customization, or privacy features. Transitioning between clients is straightforward, as they all connect to the same Telegram account data. Users should consider update activity, security, learning curves, and specific needs when choosing a client.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

Android phone feeling slow? I changed these 4 settings to revitalize the whole system

Many consumers keep their Android phones for longer periods, and there are strategies to enhance performance without complex modifications. 1. Uninstall unused apps by navigating to Settings > Storage > Apps or long-pressing the app icon. 2. Clear storage by transferring photos to external drives or cloud storage, and clearing app cache via Settings > Storage > App > Clear Cache. 3. Keep the phone updated by checking for updates in Settings > General > System Update and updating apps in the Google Play Store. 4. Adjust animation speed by enabling Developer options through Settings > About phone > Software information > Build number (tap seven times) and modifying the Window animation scale to 0.5x in the Drawing section. Additionally, minimize Transition animation scale and Animator duration scale for improved performance.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

You should deep clean your Windows PC every year to keep it running smoothly — here’s how I do it

Maintaining a computer's performance requires regular software upkeep in addition to physical care. An annual deep clean is advisable, with more frequent maintenance being beneficial. 1. Uninstall unused applications using the built-in Settings app or a tool like BCUninstaller, which can bulk uninstall and identify leftover files. 2. Run debloat scripts, such as Chris Titus Tech's Windows Utility, to remove bloatware and manage privacy settings. 3. Disable unnecessary startup apps through the Task Manager to optimize boot times. 4. Check for driver updates manually under Advanced options > Optional updates, and visit manufacturer websites for graphics drivers. 5. Run a malware scan using MalwareBytes for periodic checks. 6. Delete temporary files via System > Storage > Temporary files in the Settings app, and manage cached files in web browsers.