customizing Archives

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Windows 25 is a mod for Windows 11 that makes everything so much better

Users have modified operating systems, particularly Windows, for a personalized experience, leading to a community that shares tweaks and cosmetic changes. The Windows 25 mod enhances Windows 11 by addressing user criticisms, such as the design of the Start menu and context menu accessibility. Created by modder AR 4789, it utilizes the Windhawk customization tool and involves a multi-step installation process. The mod offers a futuristic interface that combines elements of Windows 11 and macOS, featuring simplified icons, transparent elements, and a movable Start menu. It also restores the classic context menu for easier access to options. Users can further customize their experience and can revert to their original setup if needed.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

Introducing Windows on arm. And by arm, we mean wrist

Gustave Monce, a PhD student from Bordeaux, is working on a project to run Windows on the Google Pixel Watch 3, referred to as "Windows on ARM." Initially announced on April Fools' Day, Monce clarified that the project is serious and involves UEFI on the Pixel Watch 3 with the capability to boot Windows and Linux. He has previously developed DuoWOA, enabling Windows 11 to run on Microsoft's Surface Duo, and is also working on LumiaWOA for the Nokia Lumia 950 and 950XL. The smartwatch project utilizes an Arm64 build of Windows PE, allowing the Pixel Watch 3 to boot a WinPE image via UEFI, though the final installation steps remain undocumented. Monce describes the project as real and goofy, acknowledging its current limitations while inviting others to explore the code.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Samsung wants third-party apps to be compatible with Now Bar

Samsung is planning to enhance its One UI 7 experience by integrating several third-party applications into the Now Bar feature. Speculated apps include Kakao T, Naver Sports, YouTube, and YouTube Music. The inclusion of Naver Sports may allow users to stay updated on their favorite teams and events, similar to Google Sports. Additionally, Samsung intends to implement "forced" support for all third-party applications, broadening the Now Bar's capabilities. There are also rumors of a dedicated Good Lock module for customizing the Now Bar's appearance. Samsung has already improved access to sports scores and team updates with a recent Google Sports update.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

20 advanced Android 15 tips

Android 15 introduces several enhancements for user experience, including: - Notification Cooldown feature to manage alerts more effectively. - Modes system for tailoring device settings based on context (work, leisure, rest). - Separation of Samsung’s Quick Settings and notification panels for streamlined access. - Private Space feature for safeguarding selected applications within the app drawer. - App pair feature for running two applications side by side. - Transformation of Samsung's Android app drawer for improved navigation. - New Home Control screen saver for managing connected devices. - Expanded volume panel for customizing audio output. - Improved contrast controls for better visibility and accessibility across interfaces.

Winsage

March 23, 2025

6 Windows features aimed at accessibility you didn’t know everyone should use

Microsoft's Windows 11 includes several accessibility features aimed at enhancing user experience. - Voice Access allows users to control their PCs with voice commands, operating in three modes: default, command-only, and dictation. It functions without an internet connection. - Live Captions automatically generate captions for any audio playing on the PC, aiding users in noisy environments or while multitasking. - Focus helps users minimize distractions by customizing notification settings and can be programmed to activate during specific activities. - Narrator reads text aloud from the screen, useful for managing extensive texts, with customizable settings for speed, pitch, and voice. - On-Screen Keyboard provides a virtual keyboard for input via mouse or touchscreen, customizable for usability. - Mouse pointer options allow users to adjust the size and color of the cursor and enable pointer trails for better visibility. Custom cursor designs can also be downloaded from the Microsoft Store.

AppWizard

March 18, 2025

Why Minecraft’s Bedrock and Java Editions Feel Like Two Different Games

Minecraft has two distinct editions: Java and Bedrock. Java Edition is exclusive to PC and supports extensive modding, while Bedrock Edition is accessible across multiple platforms, including consoles and mobile devices. Bedrock is optimized for performance on a variety of devices, whereas Java offers superior visuals but requires a more powerful PC. Java's Redstone mechanics and combat system differ from Bedrock's, affecting gameplay. Multiplayer in Java is limited to other Java users and community servers, while Bedrock allows cross-play among all platforms. Java has a wider selection of fan-operated servers compared to Bedrock.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

5 Start menu alternatives and Windows tweaks that will speed up your workflow

The Start menu in Windows 11 has undergone changes that some users find less familiar compared to previous versions. Alternatives to enhance the Start menu experience include: - StartAllBack: A paid utility that restores the classic Windows 7 Start menu while offering customization options like themes, layout, and taskbar modifications. It has a 100-day free trial. - Open-Shell: A free, open-source tool that allows users to revert to classic Start menus from Windows 7 and earlier, with extensive customization and improved search functionality. It receives regular updates but may have slight performance lags. - Start11: A premium alternative by Stardock that provides a modern Start menu with styles reminiscent of Windows 7 and Windows 10, allowing for icon modification and app pinning. It offers a 30-day free trial. - Windhawk: A free modular tool for customizing the Start menu and other Windows interface elements, allowing users to install specific mods for tailored modifications. - Windows built-in settings: Users can enhance the Start menu by changing the layout, adding folder shortcuts next to the power button, and pinning favorite apps for quick access.

Tech Optimizer

March 5, 2025

Keep your family and devices safe with Norton AntiVirus: Up to 58% off the first year

Norton AntiVirus offers comprehensive protection for various devices, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, with plans covering up to ten devices. Key offerings include: - Norton AntiVirus Plus: Covers one device (PC, Mac, tablet, or smartphone) with essential protections against viruses, malware, and ransomware, priced at .99 (50% discount). - Norton 360 Standard: Protects up to three devices, adds a VPN and dark web monitoring, priced at .99 (57% discount). - Norton 360 Deluxe: Covers five devices, includes all previous features plus privacy monitoring and parental controls, priced at .99 (58% discount). - Norton 360 Select: Covers up to ten devices with identity theft protection, priced at .99 (47% discount). Norton’s software protects against a wide range of digital threats, including viruses, Trojans, coin-miners, crypto-jacking, keylogging, spyware, and malicious ads. Norton Family helps parents manage their children's online experiences, allowing web supervision, screen time limits, and activity monitoring. A seven-day trial is available for users to experience the protection risk-free.

Winsage

March 3, 2025

How to Get a macOS-Like Menu Bar on Windows 11

Many users transitioning from macOS to Windows 11 desire a macOS-like menu bar. Two methods to achieve this are: 1. Droptop Four Rainmeter Skin: - Download and install the Rainmeter application for free. - Download the Droptop Four skin (95MB in RMSKIN format) for free. - Install the skin by double-clicking the file and following the prompts. 2. GlazeWM with Zebar: - Open Terminal or Command Prompt and execute the command: winget install GlazeWM. - Launch GlazeWM from the Start menu to display a macOS-like menu bar at the top of the screen, which shows CPU and RAM usage. GlazeWM also offers tiling capabilities for efficient workspace navigation.