customization options Archives

Winsage

December 28, 2024

8 classic Windows features you can bring back with free tools

Windows 11 has introduced a range of tools and solutions to help users restore familiar features from previous versions of Windows. 1. GadgetPack: Revives Gadgets from Windows Vista for Windows 10 and 11, modernizing them with new functionalities like clipboard history, battery meters, and multi-core CPU monitors. 2. Media Player Classic - Home Cinema (MPC-HC): An alternative to the classic Windows Media Player, offering robust support for modern file formats and additional features. 3. OpenShell: A tool that restores the classic Start menu experience, allowing customization to resemble styles from Windows 95, XP, or Vista. 4. ExplorerPatcher: Restores classic taskbar functionality, including resizing and moving options, and reverts File Explorer to earlier command bars and context menus. 5. Task Switcher Options: ExplorerPatcher also allows users to customize the task switcher to resemble earlier Windows versions, including simplified views. 6. WinAero Tweaker: Provides a theme that evokes the Aero style of Windows 7, enhancing the nostalgic aesthetic. 7. Windows Photo Viewer: Can be re-enabled through a registry tweak, allowing users to access the familiar image viewing experience without additional software.

AppWizard

December 28, 2024

5 unimplemented Minecraft features Mojang should add to the game in the future

- Shaders are a highly desired unimplemented feature that could enhance the game's visuals, with partial integration in versions 1.16 and 1.17, but ultimately abandoned. - Fallen trees have been requested since 2012, potentially adding complexity to gameplay by serving as obstacles and hiding spots. - The fletching table lacks purpose and was initially teased for enhancement before the 1.15 release; upgrading it could introduce new gameplay mechanics related to hunting and gathering. - The concept of seasons, mentioned during Minecon 2013, remains unimplemented and could lead to visual transformations and changes in mob behaviors. - The Birch Forest biome was set to receive enhancements during the Wild Update announced at Minecraft Live 2021, but the anticipated features did not make it into the final version.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

What is Minecraft Minepal mod?

The Minecraft Minepal mod introduces an AI-driven non-player character (NPC) that interacts with players in a lifelike manner, powered by ChatGPT. It supports 55 languages and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, available for free and supporting up to Minecraft version 1.20.4. The NPC can engage in voice chat, assist in constructing structures, accompany players, gather and craft blocks, perform tasks like cooking and repairing, and can be customized in appearance and personality. Installation involves downloading the standalone Minepal application, entering the Minecraft username, specifying the host, selecting the Java version, and launching Minecraft to introduce the NPC into the game.

Winsage

December 24, 2024

The 3 most Windows-like Linux distros to try because change is hard

Windows 10 will reach the end of its life in 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11, purchasing new hardware, or switching to alternatives like Linux. Linux is a strong competitor to Windows and MacOS, offering benefits such as reliability, security, user-friendliness, and being free. Three recommended Linux distributions for users transitioning from Windows are: 1. KDE Neon: Based on Ubuntu, it features the KDE Plasma desktop environment, which can be customized to resemble Windows 10 or 11. It is user-friendly and available for free. 2. Linux Mint: Also based on Ubuntu, it provides a Windows-like experience with a familiar interface through its Cinnamon desktop environment. It is free and has strong community support. 3. Zorin OS: Offers multiple desktop layouts, including options that resemble Windows. The free version includes four layouts, while the Pro edition, costing .99, provides additional configurations. It is built on the GNOME framework and is customizable. All these distributions are open-source and can facilitate a smooth transition for users moving away from Windows.

AppWizard

December 24, 2024

How to enable and use Simple View on a Pixel phone

The Simple View feature was launched with the December Pixel Feature Drop as part of Android 15 for Google Pixel phones. It enhances accessibility by allowing users to modify multiple settings simultaneously, including larger text and icon sizes, a simplified home screen layout, simplified 3-button navigation, higher touch sensitivity, shortcuts for Contacts, Clock, and Weather apps, high-contrast wallpaper, an increased app grid to a 4x4 display, and locked suggested apps. Certain features are only available during the initial setup of the device. Users can enable Simple View by factory resetting their Pixel device or through the Settings app after setup, though some changes may not take effect afterward. Simple View is not available for the Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, or Pixel Tablet.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

Microsoft Edge drops yellow for folders (favourites), gets monoline transparent look

Microsoft Edge has updated to version 131.0.2903.112, introducing a design shift that replaces the yellow-themed favorites folders with a monoline, transparent aesthetic. This change has received mixed reactions from users, with some expressing ambivalence and frustration over the lack of customization options. A temporary workaround exists for reverting to the classic yellow folder icons by modifying the msedge.exe shortcut. Additionally, Microsoft Edge is set to introduce new features, including pop-ups to encourage users to set it as the default browser and enhancements like on-device AI capabilities and improved PDF reading with OCR technology.

Winsage

December 22, 2024

5 open source tools to replace Microsoft apps on Windows

Windows users can find open-source alternatives to Microsoft's applications, which can help avoid subscription fees. 1. Thunderbird: A free, open-source email client from the Mozilla Foundation, it offers features like multiple account support, a unified inbox, advanced filtering, and calendar integration. The latest version, 128, includes a modernized interface called Nebula UI and is available on Windows, Linux, Mac, and Android. 2. Nextcloud: An open-source platform for personal cloud storage and collaboration, allowing users to host their files on personal servers. It offers file storage, syncing, and sharing, but lacks advanced chat or video conferencing features. 3. Joplin: An open-source note-taking application similar to OneNote, supporting multiple themes, Markdown formatting, and tagging. It features end-to-end encryption and a web clipper for Chrome and Edge, though its user interface may feel outdated. 4. Kdenlive: An open-source video editor that supports multi-track editing, various effects, and advanced tools like chroma keying and audio mixing. It is free to use and compatible with many video and audio formats. 5. LibreOffice: A free office suite that includes applications comparable to Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. It allows users to open, edit, and save Microsoft Office formats, although it lacks mobile versions and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux desktops.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Destructoid’s award for Best PC game of 2024 goes to…

In 2024, Metaphor: ReFantazio was named the best PC game of the year by Destructoid. The game is inspired by ATLUS' Shin Megami Tensei and Persona series but features a unique medieval setting where players rescue a prince and face various challenges. It incorporates familiar combat mechanics and introduces Archetypes for enhanced customization. The narrative addresses social and political issues, diverging from typical post-apocalyptic themes, while also including lighter moments for balance. The game appeals to both veteran fans and newcomers, showcasing a fresh soundtrack, distinctive art style, and innovative story progression. Future expansions may be possible, but are not guaranteed. Other nominees for Best PC Game of 2024 included Dragon’s Dogma 2, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Metal Slug Tactics, Satisfactory, Tiny Glade, and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree.

Tech Optimizer

December 19, 2024

Why Surfshark is the only leading VPN offering a real antivirus

Surfshark is a leading VPN provider that also offers a robust antivirus solution, currently ranked second in the VPN market. Its antivirus features a tri-layered defense mechanism, including traditional scans, real-time protection against Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs), and continuous monitoring for threats. Surfshark's antivirus received the "TOP PRODUCT" award from AV-TEST in 2024, achieving scores of 6/6 for Protection, 5.5/6 for Performance, and 6/6 for Usability, along with a perfect score of 10/10 in the Advanced Threat Protection test. It boasts a 100% detection rate against advanced 0-day malware attacks. The antivirus is included in Surfshark's One and One+ plans, starting at .49 per month, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark also ranks as the best budget-friendly VPN, with speeds exceeding 950 Mbps using the WireGuard protocol and supports protection across an unlimited number of devices, though antivirus features are limited to five devices.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

The King of Fighters XIII: Global Match coming to PC on February 20, 2025

Publisher SNK and developer Safari Games will release a PC version of The King of Fighters XIII: Global Match on Steam on February 20, 2025. The game supports multiple languages, including English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese. Originally launched for PlayStation 4 and Switch on November 16, 2023, it features rollback netcode for improved online gameplay and new online lobbies. The game includes 36 playable characters and offers a three-on-three team battle system, a story mode focused on the "Ash Saga," enhanced network capabilities for various online match types, a mission mode with challenges, a tutorial for newcomers, and customization options for online profiles and characters.