clutter Archives

Winsage

November 29, 2025

This free program is all I need to make my Windows desktop perfect

Microsoft removed widget support after Windows 7, leading to nostalgia for native desktop widgets. Windows 11 reintroduced widgets, but the implementation was limited and cluttered. Widget Launcher allows users to add and pin customizable widgets directly to their desktops, offering a user-friendly interface and easy installation from the Microsoft Store. It features two skins (light and dark), customizable color settings, and retains data without crashes. The app runs automatically at boot, maintaining desktop layout and settings, and has low resource consumption, rarely exceeding 100 MB of memory usage. The default widget collection includes practical options like a Notes widget, RSS feed widget, and world clock widget, with a free tier that meets most users' needs and a paid tier for additional designs.

Winsage

November 28, 2025

Orphan strings and translation timelines in Windows

The process of updating text strings in Microsoft Windows requires a preemptive halt on changes before the final code freeze, leading to odd phrases persisting in the software. The timeline for freezing string updates is set before the engineering deadline for code changes due to the extensive time needed for translators to convert strings into various languages. Microsoft does not revise existing strings when functionalities change; instead, it introduces new translations while keeping original strings intact, as altering them would invalidate existing translation packs. This results in a buildup of obsolete strings, which can clutter the system. Opportunities to cleanse these redundant strings occur only during significant releases.

Winsage

November 27, 2025

Microsoft Goes Wild for Black Friday, Windows 11 Pro Drops 94% Like They Forgot the Price Tag

A Windows 11 Pro license, typically priced around 0, is currently available for just under through StackSocial, representing a 94% discount. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as Universal Search for easy access to apps and documents, Virtual Desktops for customized workspace organization, keyboard shortcuts for enhanced workflow efficiency, and OneDrive integration for file synchronization across devices. The promotion is time-limited and offers an affordable upgrade option for users transitioning from older versions of Windows or setting up new PCs.

Winsage

November 24, 2025

Microsoft tests File Explorer preloading for faster performance

Microsoft is piloting a feature for Windows 11 that preloads File Explorer in the background to reduce launch times and improve user experience. Users can disable this feature by unchecking "Enable window preloading for faster launch times" in the Folder Options. The Windows Insider Program Team is seeking feedback on this development. This initiative follows the rollout of Startup Boost in May 2025, which enhances loading times for Office applications. Additionally, Microsoft is updating the File Explorer context menu to streamline user interactions by grouping similar tasks and repositioning commands for better accessibility. These enhancements are available to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta channels running Windows 11 25H2 with the 26220.7271 (KB5070307) preview build.

Winsage

November 21, 2025

Microsoft Will Preload Windows 11 File Explorer to Fix Bad Performance

Microsoft is enhancing File Explorer in Windows 11 to address performance challenges. In the latest Insider Preview Build 26220.7271, they are exploring preloading File Explorer in the background to improve launch performance, with an option for users to disable this feature. Additionally, Microsoft is revamping the context menu to reduce clutter and improve accessibility of frequently used commands. A new Manage file flyout has been introduced, consolidating actions like compressing files and rotating images. Cloud-specific commands have been organized into individual provider flyouts, and the Send to My Phone option has been relocated. Users are encouraged to provide feedback on File Explorer's performance through the Feedback Hub.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

Messenger SMS – Text Messages For Android

Messenger SMS has a rating of 4.7 stars from over 50 million users. It offers features such as over 3000 free emojis and stickers, customizable themes, texting customization options, a private messenger box for encrypted messages, an SMS blocker, backup and restore capabilities, caller ID, scheduled messaging, and driving mode. The app prioritizes user privacy and security and invites user feedback for continuous improvement.

AppWizard

November 16, 2025

4 Essential Android Apps For Fitness Tracking

A suite of essential Android apps can enhance the fitness experience for active individuals or beginners. These apps include: - FitNotes: A digital workout log that allows users to create and edit routines, track performance with a calendar function, manage exercises, and monitor sets, reps, and time. It features a built-in rest timer and allows data export in CSV format. The app is free and ad-free. - Hevy: A gym log workout tracker that helps users plan workouts with tools and metrics. It includes an extensive library of free instructional videos, allows logging of metrics, marking sets, and creating custom exercises. Hevy calculates one-rep maxes and provides muscle group analysis, with Wear OS support for tracking via smartwatches. The app is free, ad-free, but includes in-app purchases. - Calorie Counter by Cronometer: A nutrition tracker that provides detailed calorie tracking and daily reports on macronutrients and micronutrients. It features photo logging for meals, a database of over a million foods, and tracks sleep and water intake. The free version is ad-supported, with subscription options for additional functionality. - Libra Weight Manager: A weight tracking app that allows users to enter their weight daily and receive analyses of body composition and BMI. It features dynamic charts for visualizing metrics and history, and compatibility with Withings scales for data integration. The app is free to download, ad-supported, and includes in-app purchases for some features.

AppWizard

November 12, 2025

Android apps you don’t need

Users of Android devices often encounter pre-installed applications that cannot be easily deleted, consuming storage space and resources. However, these apps can be disabled to prevent them from running in the background or updating, which helps free up storage. To disable an app, users should go to Settings, select Apps, locate the desired app, and choose Disable. This process helps improve device efficiency and organization.

Winsage

November 12, 2025

Windows 11 Pro Is Basically Pocket Change at 94% Off as Microsoft Quietly Kicks Off Early Black Friday

Windows 11 Pro is currently available at a 94% discount, priced just under through StackSocial, down from its typical price of around 0. Key features of Windows 11 Pro include Universal Search, which allows users to search apps, photos, documents, and the web from a single taskbar search bar; OneDrive integration for syncing files across devices; Virtual Desktops for creating customized desktops for different purposes; and enhanced clipboard functionality with keyboard shortcuts like Win + V for accessing clipboard history. This offer is available for a limited time.

AppWizard

November 11, 2025

Gaming PC power supply cables could be a thing of the past, thanks to this brilliant new idea

The back-connect motherboard design allows users to connect cables from the back, reducing clutter. The proposed BTF 3.0 standard, supported by Asus, aims to eliminate power supply cables by introducing a PCIe slot-like edge connector for power connections. This connector can handle over 2000W, accommodating a 200W CPU and a 600W GPU. BTF graphics cards will include an additional edge connector for power, and a riser card will ensure compatibility with existing graphics cards. DIY-APE has also proposed a new standard for headers connecting USB-C and other front panel features to the motherboard. A prototype has been developed in collaboration with Colorful and Sego, showcasing a design that enhances airflow and aesthetics.