compress Archives

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

Android 17 Beta 1: Major updates for adaptive apps, performance and media are imminent

Android 17 Beta 1 introduces several enhancements for Pixel smartphone users, starting from the Pixel 6. Key features include mandatory adaptive app width for foldables and tablets, support for the new h.266 video codec, optimized camera APIs for smoother third-party applications, and synchronized volume control. The update requires applications to implement dynamic width adjustments to utilize screen space effectively on larger devices, addressing issues with black bars. The camera APIs have been revamped to allow third-party apps to switch modes without reinitializing the camera session, improving performance. The beta version is available for all Pixel smartphones through the Pixel 10 series, with the final release expected in the second quarter of 2026. Additionally, the setup process for wearables and health devices has been streamlined, and various performance optimizations have been made to enhance stability and efficiency.

Winsage

December 28, 2025

Microsoft tests File Explorer search optimisation to reduce RAM usage in Windows 11

Microsoft is enhancing the Windows 11 File Explorer to reduce its memory usage, currently being tested in Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 and above for Insider preview participants. The updates aim to optimize search functionality by eliminating duplicate file indexing operations, which have historically caused high RAM and CPU consumption. Additionally, Microsoft is refining the File Explorer interface by relocating less frequently used options in the right-click context menu into a dedicated sub-menu, labeled either “Manage file” or “Other actions.” A broader rollout of these updates is expected around late January or February.

Winsage

December 26, 2025

Microsoft says Windows 11 File Explorer will soon use less RAM when you search files

Windows 11 is updating its File Explorer to improve search efficiency and reduce memory usage during file searches, currently being tested in Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 for Windows Insider participants. The new search functionality eliminates duplicate file indexing operations, resulting in faster searches and lower system resource usage. The File Explorer Search relies on the Windows Search Indexer, which will now avoid redundant indexing, leading to reduced disk I/O, lower CPU cycles, and decreased RAM usage. Additionally, Microsoft is decluttering the context menu by relocating features like “Compress to” and “Copy as path” into a new sub-menu called “Manage file,” or “Other actions” on different machines. These updates are expected to be rolled out by the end of January or in February.

BetaBeacon

December 3, 2025

Google Pixel Phones Just Got a Game‑Changing Android 16 Update

- Google has introduced new screen customizations for Pixel phones in Android 16 QPR2. - Users can now customize app icons with new shape options on the home screen. - Pixel phone users can place widgets on the lock screen by swiping left, with limited options compared to the home screen. - Other lock screen changes include a new low-light mode for the screen saver and fingerprint scanning on the switched-off display. - Users can now disable or reduce blur effects in background elements, adjust HDR intensity, and schedule expanded dark mode. - The update also adds a more flexible split-screen layout, AI-powered notifications, and strengthened parental controls. - Android 16 QPR2 includes the December security patch to fix vulnerabilities and protect against threats.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

Android 16 finally fights notification overload and lets you kill ugly icons

Android 16 introduces a shift from annual feature releases to continuous updates. Key features include a "Notification organizer" that groups and silences low-priority notifications, and AI tools that summarize lengthy messages and chat threads. Themed icons can now be applied across all apps for a consistent look. The update also includes a centralized Family Link hub for managing screen time and app usage on children's devices. These changes are currently rolling out to eligible Pixel devices.

Winsage

November 25, 2025

Microsoft says it’s fixing a baffling way in which Windows 11 is much slower than Windows 10 – and it’s about time

Microsoft has released a new preview build of Windows 11 (build 26220.7271) in the Dev and Beta channels, focusing on improving File Explorer performance and the right-click menu. Key features include: - A preloading feature for File Explorer that allows it to load in the background during Windows 11 startup, reducing sluggishness when accessing folders for the first time. - A streamlined right-click menu in File Explorer, condensing options and relocating actions like 'Compress to ZIP' and 'Set as Desktop Background' to a new 'Manage file' flyout for better organization. Additionally, Microsoft is testing the Xbox Full Screen Experience for Windows 11 PCs, indicating potential future gaming feature integration. Users can opt to disable the preloading feature if desired.

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 22, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7271 (Dev & Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7271 (KB5070307) has been released for both the Dev and Beta Channels. Insiders can switch from the Dev Channel to the Beta Channel while both channels have the same updates. The Xbox full screen experience is now available for additional Windows 11 PC form factors, accessible through Task View, Game Bar settings, or the Win + F11 hotkey. Point-in-time restore is introduced for both channels, allowing users to revert their devices to a previous state. Fluid dictation is now available for voice typing users on NPU devices, enhancing the dictation experience. Vivo Android phone users can resume browsing activity from their phone to their PC, and users of Honor, Huawei, Oppo, Samsung, and Vivo can continue working on M365 Copilot app files across devices. The context menu in File Explorer is being refined, and users can now uninstall Store-managed apps directly from the Microsoft Store. Fixes include resolving taskbar issues, internet connectivity problems, and crashes in Settings. Known issues include the virtual keyboard not being visible for controller users and some applications exhibiting unexpected behavior with the Xbox full screen experience.

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.

Winsage

November 21, 2025

5 Windows apps to install first on a new PC and what each one does for you

Every new Windows laptop presents a pristine interface, but users often encounter frustrations such as locating files, cumbersome multitasking, and needing assistance with certain formats. A curated selection of applications can streamline the user experience significantly. 1) Microsoft PowerToys enhances multitasking with features like FancyZones for window arrangement, batch renaming files, resizing images, and customizing keyboard shortcuts. 2) Everything by Voidtools simplifies the search process on Windows, allowing users to find files instantly with just a few letters typed. 3) 7 Zip manages zipped folders and unconventional formats, offering features for compressing, splitting files, and securing documents with passwords. 4) Bitwarden centralizes passwords and notes, providing a single sign-in and autofill feature that syncs across devices, helping users avoid weak password reuse. 5) SumatraPDF is a lightweight PDF reader that opens documents quickly and supports epub and mobi files, serving as a basic eBook reader. These applications alleviate daily annoyances on Windows and prioritize functionality over aesthetics.