desktop application Archives

AppWizard

June 6, 2025

Packet is an Android Quick Share App for Linux

Packet is a Linux application developed in Rust with a GTK4/libadwaita interface designed for wireless file transfer between Android and Linux devices. It utilizes Android's Quick Share feature, requiring devices to have Bluetooth enabled and be connected to a compatible Wi-Fi network. Users can easily send files by dragging and dropping them in Packet or using the Quick Share option on Android. The app allows customization of device names, visibility, download folders, and can run in the background. Packet is available for installation from Flathub or can be built from source on GitHub.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Messaging app Signal will block Windows Recall from taking chat screenshots

Signal has introduced a "Screen Security" feature in its desktop application to prevent external programs, including Windows 11, from capturing screenshots of its interface. This feature is enabled by default and is a response to Microsoft's Recall feature, which captures app window screenshots for AI processing. Signal is concerned about the privacy risks posed by Recall's design, despite Microsoft's assurances of improved privacy controls. The developers have used Windows' Digital Rights Management technology to protect against unauthorized screenshots due to the lack of official APIs from Windows 11. Signal's leadership has criticized the need for such workarounds and has called on Microsoft to provide better tools for developers to safeguard user privacy.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

How to use ChatGPT: A beginner’s guide to the most popular AI chatbot

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, was launched in late 2022 and has evolved into a versatile tool for tasks such as composing emails, generating essays, brainstorming ideas, translating languages, assisting with coding, and answering questions. OpenAI offers a free version and paid plans for additional features. Users can access ChatGPT via its website or app without creating an account, although registration unlocks features like saving chat history. The user base has grown to over 400 million weekly users within six months. OpenAI's subscription plans include a free tier, a Plus plan at per month, and a Pro plan at 0 per month. ChatGPT can assist with advice, data analysis, browsing, deep research, image generation with DALL·E, and file uploads. Features include Voice Mode for spoken interaction, ChatGPT Canvas for visual organization, and ChatGPT Tasks for scheduling reminders. ChatGPT can also generate images and videos, with the upgraded GPT-4o image generator available to Plus subscribers. The desktop app is available for Windows and MacOS, and users can try ChatGPT without logging in. Accuracy may vary, and users are advised to fact-check responses.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Signal is ‘as safe as messaging apps get’, but not for national security

End-to-end encrypted messaging app Signal is recognized for its security features but is advised against for use by government officials discussing national security. A breach occurred when members of former President Donald Trump's national security team mistakenly included a journalist in a group chat sharing sensitive military information. Cybersecurity experts express concerns about the potential legal implications of using apps like Signal for classified communications, as it could violate the Espionage Act. High-ranking officials were involved in this incident, which exposed sensitive details, including air-strike targets and the identity of a CIA officer. Typically, government officials use Secure Compartmentalized Information Facilities (SCIFs) for classified information, and there are specific government-approved systems for transmitting such information that do not include Signal.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Discord revamps overlay and desktop to make PC gaming easier

Discord has released updates for its desktop application to improve the gaming experience for PC players. The new Game Overlay has been redesigned for better performance and now includes individual widgets for easier access to voice and video controls, as well as the ability to view friends' game streams. The update supports a wider range of games and includes a help section for users. Additionally, the desktop interface has been refreshed with new customization options, including four free themes and three UI Density settings. Users can now resize the channel list for better navigation, and there are improved controls for voice and video during calls, along with enhanced visual indicators for active devices. These updates aim to enhance legibility and reduce visual clutter, with ongoing improvements planned throughout the year.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11 gets a toggle to control connected Android devices

Phone Link is a tool that connects Windows machines and Android devices, allowing users to view photos and send messages. Microsoft is rolling out a new feature called "Phone Connection" as part of its Copilot AI, which replaces the previous Phone Plugin and enhances user experience. Phone Connection links Android devices to Copilot through Phone Link, enabling users to access data such as alarms, messages, and navigation functions from their desktops. Users can instruct Copilot to perform tasks on their mobile devices, but must accept commands sent from Copilot. This feature is optimized for Android 14 or newer and requires the Link to Windows Service app version 3.0.01.7 or later. The update is being rolled out gradually and can be accessed under Profile > Account.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Microsoft takes Remote Desktop app out back

Support for Microsoft's Remote Desktop application will cease on May 27, 2024, transitioning users to the newly introduced Windows App. The Windows App offers unified access to various Windows services but has received mixed reactions from users. The Remote Desktop app will be removed from the Microsoft Store, requiring users to adapt to the Windows App for services like Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop. Users must have a school or work account to use the Windows App, which includes features like customizable home screens and multi-monitor support, but lacks certain functionalities such as Private Link support and local Start Menu integration. After May 27, connections via the Remote Desktop app will be blocked.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Windows’ Cortana is back from the dead, and you’re not going to like her new form

Cortana has been reintroduced as Copilot, which allows voice interaction through a hotkey. The Copilot update features voice commands and a microphone icon, aiming to enhance productivity in Windows 11. Users can engage with Copilot by holding the Alt + Spacebar for two seconds and can end the conversation by pressing the Esc key. Unlike Cortana, Copilot does not permit users to adjust system settings via voice commands; instead, it directs users to the Copilot app for interaction.

Winsage

March 5, 2025

Microsoft revamps the Copilot app for Windows 11, makes it truly native

Microsoft has rolled out a revamped version of its Copilot application for Windows 11 Insiders, transitioning it into a native application integrated within the operating system. Initial feedback indicates that the new Copilot app outperforms the ChatGPT desktop application, operating with speed and efficiency while using only 50 to 100 MB of RAM. The app has been redeveloped using Windows technologies like XAML and WinUI, featuring its own controls, a dedicated taskbar icon, and picture-in-picture mode. It allows for quick initiation of conversations with the AI chatbot and provides tailored responses based on installed components and applications. The current version does not control Windows 11 directly, but future updates may introduce this capability. The rollout is ongoing for Windows 11 Insiders, with the latest version identified as 1.25023.101.0.

Winsage

March 4, 2025

I Tried Microsoft Copilot’s Mac App, and You Probably Shouldn’t

Many users in the tech community are looking for ways to hide or remove Copilot from Windows, as they find AI tools bothersome. In contrast, Microsoft has launched Copilot for Mac, which mirrors the web-based experience and includes features like a system-wide keyboard shortcut (Option-Space) for quick access. The Mac version has a menu bar icon for easy access and adapts to the Mac's Appearance settings. However, it lacks some integration features, such as a screenshot button, requiring users to manually upload screenshots for analysis. Copilot can assist with tasks like coding, research, and academic help, and the free version provides access to real-time web information. The Mac and Windows versions of Copilot are similar in capabilities, and users may prefer trying the web version before installation.