desktop Archives

BetaBeacon

February 10, 2026

MuMuPlayer: run Android games on Windows

MuMuPlayer is a platform that allows gamers to play mobile games on their desktop with high frame rates and low latency. It offers official presets for PC controls and supports high-definition visuals for a native-level experience on the screen. MuMuPlayer is available for download on Windows, Mac OS, and Windows on ARM, with an iOS version coming soon.

Winsage

February 10, 2026

De-Enshittify Windows 11: OneDrive ⭐

Microsoft has auto-enabled the OneDrive Folder Backup feature in Windows 11 version 25H2 without notifying users, syncing the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders automatically. Many users may not want these folders synced due to containing sensitive or large files. Disabling Folder Backup can be cumbersome, as it requires users to decide where to store contents, complicating content management. Unlike previous versions, this feature is activated post-login without user consent. To uninstall OneDrive, users can go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, locate Microsoft OneDrive, and select "Uninstall." Uninstalling does not delete cloud-stored files, which remain accessible via the OneDrive website or app. Users can prevent OneDrive from enabling Folder Backup during PC setup by acting quickly after the Windows Setup Out of Box Experience (OOBE) and canceling the backup process when prompted. If Folder Backup is already enabled, users can disable it by accessing OneDrive settings and managing backups for the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. OneDrive offers only 5 GB of free cloud storage, with additional storage requiring a subscription to Microsoft 365. Users can disable “On this day” memory notifications in OneDrive settings. To move OneDrive to a different disk, users must unlink their account and select a new folder path during re-sign-in.

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.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

I’ve wanted this for ages: WhatsApp Web can now handle calls

WhatsApp Web now allows users to make and receive audio and video calls directly from their browser, featuring end-to-end encryption and screen sharing. This capability is currently available only to beta users, with plans for a broader rollout soon. Group calls are not yet supported but are expected to be introduced later.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Android desktop will put Gemini front and center — just as you’d expect

Google is integrating its Gemini feature into Android to enhance its desktop capabilities. Gemini will be pinned to the top right corner of the upcoming Android desktop interface and can be launched using a keyboard shortcut with the Google key and Space. The latest beta version of the Google app (version 17.5) confirms this setup. Additionally, an animation featuring Gemini appears during the setup phase of PCs running the new Aluminium OS, suggesting a streamlined user experience.

Winsage

February 1, 2026

Microsoft says latest Windows 11 issue crashes explorer.exe, makes taskbar disappear, but a fix is rolling out

A bug in Windows 11 has been causing disruptions, particularly affecting the Explorer.exe process, leading to the desktop user interface and taskbar disappearing for users. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and will release a fix in the optional update, Windows 11 KB5074105, in January 2026. The problem affects Windows installations with certain startup applications configured, causing Explorer.exe to stop responding upon signing in. Users are advised to manually restart Explorer.exe via Task Manager if it becomes unresponsive. The KB5074105 update will also fix issues with Explorer not displaying custom folder names correctly and resolve problems with an unresponsive lock screen and black screens linked to a previous update.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

Final day to get Windows 11 Pro for just $10

A promotion has reduced the price of Windows 11 Pro to a significant discount, making it an attractive option for users currently on Windows 10 or the Home edition of Windows 11. The offer represents a 94% discount from the standard retail price and is a rare opportunity for a current-generation Windows Pro license. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as Snap Layouts, multiple desktops, BitLocker device encryption, Windows Information Protection, Hyper-V virtualization, and Remote Desktop capabilities. It requires a compatible 64-bit CPU, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, at least 4GB of RAM, and adequate storage. Users are advised to purchase from reputable sellers to avoid issues with activation or legitimacy of the license.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

Microsoft explores bringing Linux-like top menu bar to Windows 11 with new PowerToys feature

The PowerToys team at Microsoft is developing a new feature that introduces a menu bar for the Windows desktop, providing glanceable system information and music controls. This dock can be pinned to any edge of the screen and allows users to pin existing PowerToys extensions without code modifications. It can be enabled from Command Palette settings and aims to enhance quick awareness of system metrics like RAM usage and CPU temperatures. User feedback is encouraged to shape its development, and developers can test this feature in a dedicated branch, although it is not yet part of the main PowerToys release.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

I Switched From Windows 11 to Linux Mint. Here Are 7 Things It Does Way Better

Linux Mint is a free operating system that can be downloaded without any licensing fees, in contrast to Windows 11, which costs between 9 for the Home Edition and 9 for the Pro Edition. It has minimal hardware requirements, running efficiently on traditional AMD- or Intel-based systems, with a 3GB installer and support for devices with as little as 2GB of RAM. Linux Mint features a cleaner and more organized desktop interface compared to Windows 11, with three different editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, catering to various user preferences. Users can test Linux Mint risk-free via live USB drives, and it operates without AI features, unlike Windows 11. It collects minimal diagnostic data, prioritizing user privacy. However, Linux Mint does not support major software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft 365 desktop applications, and some hardware drivers may be lacking. Users may need some technical knowledge for optimal use.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

NotebookLM’s Android App Just Unlocked One of Its Most Powerful Features

NotebookLM has introduced the Video Overviews feature for Android users, allowing them to create concise videos from selected notebook content. This feature, previously available only on desktop, can be accessed through the Studio section of the app. The update also includes new customization options for infographics, such as landscape layouts, horizontal formats, and square designs. Additionally, slide deck customization is in development. The update enhances NotebookLM's functionality as a conversational research assistant, enabling users to add sources, ask follow-up questions, and generate tables, summaries, and videos on mobile devices. Availability of these features may vary by device and region.