customization tools Archives

Winsage

April 18, 2025

TranslucentTB is the best free program I use to make Windows 11 look even better

Windows 11 has limited customization options for the taskbar compared to previous versions, leading to user dissatisfaction. TranslucentTB is a free application that allows users to customize the taskbar's transparency and color independently from other elements, offering various effects such as Mica and Acrylic. Users can eliminate the taskbar's border and adjust transparency levels for a personalized appearance. The app also enables different transparency effects and colors based on specific scenarios, such as when no windows are open or when the Start menu is accessed. TranslucentTB is available on the Microsoft Store.

Winsage

April 15, 2025

Couldn’t install Windows 11 24H2 because of your wallpaper? Microsoft has finally lifted blocks on upgrades due to customization apps

Microsoft has resolved a compatibility issue affecting certain wallpaper customization applications on Windows 11, which encountered problems during the upgrade to version 24H2. Users experienced errors, glitches with wallpaper displays, disappearing desktop icons, and complications with virtual desktops. The resolution allows users to install the 24H2 update without these issues. The 24H2 update, built on a new platform called Germanium, introduced more bugs than previous updates, leading to significant disruptions for users.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Microsoft starts lifting Windows 11 24H2 safeguard hold

Microsoft has begun lifting a compatibility hold on wallpaper customization applications for Windows 11, which had been in place for over six months since the release of Windows 11 24H2. The hold affected multiple applications, causing issues such as incorrect wallpaper display and disappearing icons. Microsoft confirmed that the hold is being removed incrementally as developers update their applications, although the reasons for the incompatibility remain unclear. Users may receive prompts to uninstall their wallpaper applications during the update process, and they are encouraged to update these applications for better compatibility. Some applications, like Wallpaper Engine, have already released updates to enhance compatibility with Windows 11 24H2. The resolution of compatibility issues will depend on the timing of application updates from developers.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

One of Stardock’s best Windows customization tools is getting even better

Stardock has released the beta version of Fences 6, a desktop organization tool for Windows 11 that enhances user experience and productivity. Key features include tab support for creating multiple fences, icon tinting for visual cohesion, a new color picker for personalization, and improved folder navigation within Folder Portals. Fences 6 now runs natively on Windows on Arm, improving performance on Arm-based devices. The beta is available for .99, with a one-year license, and the annual subscription will be .99 after the beta phase. Users subscribed to the Object Desktop suite will have access to Fences 6 at no additional charge.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

New ExplorerPatcher update fixes Win + X, Start menu crashes, and more on Windows 11

ExplorerPatcher has released an update, version 22621.4317.67.1, available on GitHub, addressing issues with the Win X menu and Start menu. Key updates include: - The Win+X shortcut is functional on builds 226xx.4317 and above. - Fixed resource loader issues when the boot drive is not C:. - Resolved crashes in the Start menu related to context menus with jump list entries on specific builds. - Improved handling of "Not responding" windows. - Taskbar items now have animated flashing. - The Narrator provides descriptions for the "Show desktop" button. - Added Portuguese (Brazil) translations. Users can download ExplorerPatcher from GitHub, but it may be flagged by Windows Defender and antivirus programs. Microsoft has taken measures against ExplorerPatcher by limiting its functionality in Windows 11 version 24H2 and labeling it as malware. To avoid false positives, users can add specific paths to the exclusion list in Windows Defender. A PowerShell script is provided to facilitate this process.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Windows 11 might not update if you have these apps

Microsoft has implemented a thorough scan of hardware and installed software for potential incompatibilities before initiating Windows updates, pausing the process if any issues are detected. The rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update has seen an increase in upgrade blocks, affecting certain Asus laptops, integrated webcams, and fingerprint sensors. Specific incompatibilities include Gameloft’s Asphalt 8: Airborne, the Safe Exam Browser, Easy Anti-Cheat, various wallpaper customization tools, and Intel Smart Sound Technology, which requires a driver update. Microsoft is working to address these issues to minimize user intervention.

Winsage

October 24, 2024

This third-party app bypasses Microsoft’s stringent Windows 11 24H2 system requirements and installs the massive update on unsupported hardware

Microsoft is facing challenges in increasing the market share of Windows 11, which currently holds 33.37% of the market compared to Windows 10's 62.79%. The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025. Users have limited options for upgrading, including moving to Windows 11, buying new devices, or switching to alternatives like Linux or macOS. A third-party application called Flyby11 allows users to bypass system requirements to install Windows 11 version 24H2 on unsupported hardware. However, using such unsupported applications carries risks, including the potential to render devices inoperable. Additionally, the Seelen UI Utility offers customization options for both Windows 11 and Windows 10, but requires Microsoft Edge for full functionality.

Winsage

October 21, 2024

New Rufus-like app brings simple Windows 11 24H2 unsupported PC (CPU/TPM) bypass

Rufus has released version 4.6 beta, which includes a method to bypass Windows 11 24H2 system requirements. This is facilitated by a PowerShell script called Fido, allowing access to official Microsoft Windows retail ISO download links. The new application, Flyby11, enables the installation of Windows 11 (24H2) on unsupported hardware by using a Server setup bypass that skips hardware compatibility checks like CPU specifications, TPM, and Secure Boot. Flyby11 is available on GitHub, but it has not been signed, which may cause security warnings from Microsoft Defender. Users are advised to test it in a virtual machine environment.

Winsage

October 17, 2024

One of the most powerful unofficial Windows customization tools finally released

Seelen UI is a mod for Windows 11 and 10 that allows users to customize the taskbar's position and includes an app launcher similar to Rofi on Linux. It enhances user interaction with the operating system and provides an alternative to Microsoft's default interface. Users can download Seelen UI from the Microsoft Store or install it manually via GitHub or Winget.

Winsage

October 7, 2024

The best Windows tweaking and customization tools on GitHub [Part 1]

Windows operating systems provide customization options, and third-party tools enhance personalization. Notable tools include: - xd-AntiSpy: Targets Windows 10 and 11, focusing on privacy by disabling telemetry and tracking. - Optimizer: Disables telemetry, adjusts system settings, and improves startup efficiency. - ExplorerBlurMica: Enhances File Explorer with background blur and customizable transparency effects. - Lively Wallpaper: Allows the use of web pages, videos, or GIFs as interactive desktop backgrounds. - PowerToys: Microsoft’s open-source utility suite for power users, featuring tools like FancyZones and a new Workspaces module. - Rainmeter: Enables desktop customization with widgets and skins for displaying information. - simplewall: Manages network activity with custom rules and monitoring capabilities. - Notepads: A modern text editor with multi-tab support and advanced features. - ExplorerPatcher: Restores classic taskbar functionalities and modifies Explorer settings. - Files: A modern File Explorer alternative with dual-pane browsing and improved file management.