context menu Archives

Winsage

March 3, 2026

This third‑party Windows 11 app fixes one of its most annoying UX problems

The Files app has been updated to version 4.0.28, featuring an improved right-click context menu, bug fixes, support for the Microsoft Store version of Dropbox, icon customization for URL and shortcut files, and an option to disable smooth scrolling. The update resolves several issues, including problems with the 'Open With' menu, tab switching, and tag searches. The development team is focused on performance improvements, particularly for thumbnail loading times. Microsoft has plans to enhance Windows 11 and address user pain points related to File Explorer.

Winsage

March 3, 2026

This third‑party Windows 11 app just fixed one of its most annoying design problems — because someone had to step in and do it

Microsoft introduced Windows 11 nearly five years ago, but its market adoption has been slow due to challenges such as design flaws and high hardware requirements. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. In response to these issues, third-party applications like the 'Files' app have emerged, with the latest update (version 4.0.28) improving the right-click context menu and fixing bugs. Microsoft is working on changing perceptions of Windows 11 and addressing user feedback, including reassessing its AI strategy. Last year, the rollout of a new File Explorer feature to display "recommended" files was halted.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

How to Disable Copilot in Windows 11 — Uninstall, Hide, and Stop It from Coming Back

Microsoft has integrated its AI assistant, Copilot, into various parts of Windows 11, including the taskbar, Edge, and Notepad. Users have expressed a desire to remove Copilot, leading to the creation of a guide detailing methods to disable it. Copilot can be uninstalled through Settings, but additional steps are required to remove it from Edge, Notepad, and Windows Search. Users can also prevent Copilot from reinstalling after updates by adjusting registry settings. The Copilot app is categorized as a standalone application in Windows 11 24H2, making it easier to uninstall compared to previous versions. Methods to disable Copilot include: 1. Uninstalling the app via Settings. 2. Hiding the icon from the taskbar. 3. Using Group Policy Editor (limited to Pro, Enterprise, Education). 4. Removing Copilot for all users using PowerShell. 5. Adjusting settings in Edge and Notepad to disable Copilot features. 6. Editing the registry to remove Copilot from Windows Search and Paint. 7. Remapping the physical Copilot key on newer laptops. 8. Disabling silent reinstallation of Copilot through registry edits. Disabling Copilot will not affect core Windows functionality but will remove AI-specific features such as the chatbot and writing assistance.

Winsage

February 22, 2026

For all its problems, these are 5 ways Windows 11 makes my life easier every day

Windows 11 operates on nearly 70% of the world's desktops. It features native extraction for compressed files, allowing users to extract files directly from the context menu without third-party applications. The introduction of tabbed browsing in File Explorer helps manage files more effectively, reducing clutter. Snap assist offers layout options for window arrangement, facilitating multitasking. Users can create separate virtual desktops, each customizable with unique wallpapers, to organize different workspaces. Windows 11 includes native screen recording capabilities and an optical character recognition (OCR) feature for extracting text from images and screenshots.

Winsage

February 21, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7872 (Beta Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7872 (KB5077231) has been released to the Beta Channel, featuring several changes and improvements. The context menu now aligns the “Open” verb with the icon of the file’s default application for .exe, .bat, or .cmd files. The ‘Device info’ Card on the Settings Home page has been refined for better clarity of device specifications, and essential hardware details are now prominently displayed at the top of the Settings > System > About page. Additionally, the animations for mousing over app groups on the taskbar have been enhanced. The updates are gradually rolled out, and users can opt to receive the latest updates via Settings > Windows Update. Features may evolve, be removed, or replaced based on feedback.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7877 (Dev Channel)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26300.7877 (KB5077232) has been released to the Dev Channel, introducing various changes and improvements. Key updates include: - The "Open" option in the context menu for .exe, .bat, or .cmd files now aligns with the icon of the default application. - The Device info Card on the Settings Home page has been refined for easier comprehension, displaying key device specifications prominently. - Enhanced animations for hovering over app groups on the taskbar and improved reliability of app icons in the system tray. - An issue with File Explorer where open windows and tabs might jump to Desktop or Home has been resolved. - Reliability improvements for sending larger files using nearby sharing. - The Paint app has been updated to version 11.2601.391.0, introducing a freeform rotate feature that allows users to rotate shapes, text, and selections to any angle. Updates are gradually rolled out to Insiders who opt in via Settings > Windows Update, and feedback is encouraged through the Feedback Hub.

Tech Optimizer

February 15, 2026

Manage PostgreSQL Databases Directly in VS Code with Microsoft’s Extension

Microsoft's PostgreSQL extension for VS Code streamlines database management by allowing users to connect to databases, write and execute queries, visualize schemas, and engage with GitHub Copilot without switching applications. It includes Entra authentication for Azure Database for PostgreSQL, enhancing security. The extension features a @pgsql GitHub Copilot agent that assists with PostgreSQL tasks, enabling users to rewrite queries, clarify functions, and analyze performance metrics. The Copilot Chat Agent Mode allows for multi-step tasks like debugging and schema optimization, requiring user permission for database changes. Users can visualize database schemas, manage connections for local and cloud-hosted databases, and utilize context-aware IntelliSense for writing SQL queries. Additional features include a server dashboard, schema migration capabilities, and Docker support for local PostgreSQL instances. Users can install the extension from the VS Code Marketplace.

Winsage

February 12, 2026

I unlocked God Mode in Windows 11 with this text string – here’s what it does

God Mode in Windows 11 consolidates essential settings into a single interface, allowing users to access various options such as Backup and Restore, Color Management, Devices and Printers, Ease of Access, File History, Mouse settings, Power Options, Programs and Features, Security and Maintenance, Speech Recognition, Troubleshooting, and User Accounts. To set up God Mode, users need to right-click on the desktop, select New, and then choose Folder, using a specific folder name code. This feature enhances productivity and allows for customization of the Windows experience.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

10 open-source apps I recommend every Windows user download

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users, particularly on Windows. Notable applications include: 1. LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite with a customizable interface, supports MS Office formats, and is free to download. 2. Flow Launcher: A file search and application launcher that enhances efficiency, customizable, and free to use. 3. Duplicati: A zero-trust backup solution with encryption and scheduling features, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, free to install on Windows. 5. Franz: Consolidates multiple messaging platforms into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: Allows users to create custom top bars for system information and quick access controls, enhancing the user experience. 7. File Converter: Simplifies file conversion and compression within the Windows file manager, available for free. 8. Bitwarden: A password management tool with a free version and additional paid features for collaboration. 9. AutoHotKey: Automates tasks on Windows through scripting, free to install and use. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI interaction tool that prioritizes privacy, free to use on Windows.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

Why Windows 11 feels slower than Windows 10—and why it’s not just in your head

Windows 11 features a modern architecture with advanced schedulers and SSD support, but many users experience sluggishness, with delays in menus and dialog boxes. This perception of reduced responsiveness compared to Windows 10 has been linked to the use of XAML, which modernizes traditional desktop components but introduces performance issues due to added abstraction layers. Disabling animations does not resolve the delays, which are attributed to XAML's reliance on GPU acceleration for simple tasks, leading to inefficiencies. The cumulative effect of these micro-delays, measured in milliseconds, contributes to an overall feeling of sluggishness, regardless of high-end hardware. Microsoft's design choices prioritize visual consistency and modern UI technology, resulting in trade-offs in everyday responsiveness. The slower perception of Windows 11 compared to Windows 10 is rooted in these deliberate technical decisions.