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Winsage

March 1, 2025

7 reasons you simply HAVE to use PowerToys Run on your Windows 11 PC

PowerToys Run is a versatile launcher for Windows 11 that enhances user interaction with the operating system. It allows users to perform calculations directly by typing = followed by numbers or equations, execute terminal commands by entering commands like > wsl.exe -d Fedora, and search Windows Settings more efficiently by typing $ followed by a search term. Users can also quickly locate files by using ? followed by the search term, launch web addresses by typing the URL or using //, and navigate the Windows Registry by entering : followed by the desired term. PowerToys Run improves functionality and user experience compared to the traditional Start Menu.

AppWizard

February 25, 2025

I never click any link on my Android phone without using this app first

URLCheck is an open-source application for Android that enhances link management by intercepting links before they are followed, allowing users to view, modify, or disregard them. It integrates with the VirusTotal API for threat checking, although users must sign up to use this feature. The app removes tracking tags and unnecessary redirects when sharing links. To set up URLCheck, users need to download it, select it as the default browser, and enable preferred modules. While URLCheck improves security, it does not guarantee complete safety online and requires users to exercise caution. The app only intercepts links from applications that redirect to a browser, and users must use the share menu to check URLs within their browser.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

Microsoft gets rid of ‘Edge uninstall’ advice page after facing criticism over it having nothing to do with removing the app, and just promoting the browser instead

Microsoft recently retracted a controversial online document that appeared to help users uninstall the Edge browser, which was actually designed to persuade users to keep it. The document was discovered last week and faced negative backlash, leading to its removal. Users are now redirected to the Microsoft Edge portal, which promotes the browser without misleading implications about uninstallation. Additionally, there is no official method for most users outside of Europe to completely uninstall Edge from Windows 11 due to its integration with the operating system. Despite these promotional efforts, Edge has been recognized as a strong competitor in the browser market.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

Microsoft ‘lies’ about how to uninstall Edge then seemingly removes page from the web

Microsoft has removed a webpage intended to guide users on uninstalling Microsoft Edge, which did not actually provide assistance for removing the built-in browser from Windows 11. The page primarily compared Edge with Chrome and redirected users to a general topic page about Edge. Currently, there is no universal first-party option for uninstalling Edge on Windows 11, although some methods and tools have been attempted, their effectiveness is questionable. Users in EEA countries may have limited options to uninstall Edge due to compliance with the Digital Markets Act.

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 21, 2024

Microsoft Warns Millions Of Windows Users—Change Your Browser Now

The FBI has warned of a rise in email attacks, particularly with the holiday season approaching, highlighting increased risks from sophisticated phishing emails and malicious websites enhanced by AI tools. Microsoft is promoting its Edge browser as a safer alternative for Windows users, with plans for pop-up notifications encouraging users to set Edge as their default browser. Despite a slight increase in Edge's market share, it still significantly lags behind Google Chrome. The Department of Justice may pursue actions against Google that could impact Chrome, while Microsoft continues to use security as a key reason for promoting Edge. Users are experiencing pop-up campaigns with confusing options regarding Edge, and while Edge has security advantages, Google is improving its own features. Microsoft may find more success in promoting Edge within the enterprise sector.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Microsoft Edge won’t stop nagging users to set itself as default on Windows 11

Microsoft is implementing new pop-ups in Edge to encourage users to set it as their default browser on Windows 11, following regulatory changes in the EU that allow users to choose their default browser easily. Recent references in Edge Canary indicate features under development, such as a button labeled “msNurturingDefaultBrowserBannerUX2OneBtn” that promotes Edge. Users may encounter prompts urging them to use Microsoft Edge for enhanced security against phishing and malware, with options to confirm or postpone their decision. The design of these pop-ups is being tested, and users cannot opt out of receiving them. Similar promotional tactics are used by competitors like Google to promote their browsers.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

The Windows 11 experience (from someone in a hurry)

The author needed to acquire a new laptop for a colleague and chose one at Costco after conducting personal research. Upon bringing the laptop home, the setup process was delayed by a lengthy update that took over 30 minutes, followed by an upgrade to version 23H2 that took an additional hour. The update process was complicated by the laptop entering sleep mode and requiring multiple updates, including a substantial 24H2. Additionally, the manufacturer’s software added 1.4 gigabytes of drivers, necessitating a reboot. The entire process stretched from around 6 PM to midnight, with significant data downloads involved. The author also faced issues with Microsoft Edge, which prompted unwanted notifications and settings imports despite instructions to keep browsers distinct.

Winsage

November 25, 2024

How to use Microsoft Edge Game Assist browser

Microsoft has introduced Edge Game Assist, an in-game browser that allows players to browse the web without interrupting their gameplay. It is integrated with the Microsoft Edge platform and enables access to websites, chat with friends, and perform online tasks within a pop-up window. Key features include accessibility from the Game Bar, integration with Edge profiles, retention of browsing history and saved passwords, minimal space occupation within the game window, and compatibility with virtually any game. Currently, Edge Game Assist is available in Beta channels only, and users must ensure the Game Bar is updated, that they are on Windows 11 versions 24H2, 23H2, 22H2, or any Windows Insider channels, and that Microsoft Edge or Edge Beta is set as the default browser. Users need Microsoft Edge Beta version 132 or later to use it. To use Edge Game Assist, users must install the widget via the Microsoft Edge settings, then launch a game and access the Game Bar using Win+G. Game Assist currently requires a mouse and keyboard for browsing, with gamepad support expected in future updates.

Winsage

November 22, 2024

The official “Bing Wallpaper app” does some nasty, malware-like things to Windows

Microsoft has introduced the Bing Wallpaper app to the Windows Store, allowing users to update their desktop backgrounds daily with images from the Bing homepage. Concerns have been raised by developer Rafael Rivera regarding the app's security and privacy risks, including the automatic installation of Bing Visual Search, code for decrypting cookies from other browsers, integration of a geolocation web API, attempts to change default browser settings, and forced prompts to enable the Bing Search extension. Rivera has labeled the app as malicious and provided a list of extensions users may need to block. The online community has reacted negatively, with some users suggesting the possibility of a class action lawsuit. Alternatives to Bing Wallpaper exist that do not compromise user privacy, and Windows 11 offers built-in options for changing desktop backgrounds.