desktop computing Archives

Winsage

December 12, 2025

Repurposing an ‘Obsolete’ Windows 10 Laptop into a Thin Client, Part 1 — Virtualization Review

42% of desktop systems were still operating on Windows 10 as of mid-October 2025, leaving millions of devices unsupported and vulnerable to security risks. Organizations are considering either investing in new Windows 11 devices or repurposing old PCs into thin clients. The RepurpOS thin-client operating system can revitalize aging hardware, such as the Dell E7440 laptop, which is available for around 0 on platforms like eBay. RepurpOS requires modest hardware specifications: an Intel or AMD x86 CPU, 2 GB of RAM, and 4 GB of persistent storage. It is offered through a subscription model that is more affordable than Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates for Windows 10. The installation process for RepurpOS is straightforward, and it supports various remote desktop protocols, including Citrix, Horizon, and AWS. Testing with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) shows that modern implementations provide fast and secure remote access with features like Adaptive Graphics and GPU-accelerated rendering.

Winsage

December 5, 2025

Decline of Native Windows Apps: Electron’s Rise and Hybrid Future

Native Windows apps, once central to the desktop experience, are declining in favor of web-based technologies like Electron and Chromium. Developers are shifting towards web wrappers for cross-platform compatibility and efficiency, despite performance drawbacks. WhatsApp has transitioned from a native app to a web wrapper, prioritizing maintenance over performance. This trend is evident across various software categories, with applications like Spotify and Slack adopting web frameworks, leading to increased resource consumption and slower performance. Microsoft’s focus on cloud services and AI has influenced this shift, as has the demand for cross-platform solutions. Native apps are being overshadowed by web technologies, which often lack deep integration with Windows features. Performance trade-offs are significant, with web wrappers consuming more memory than native apps. The rise of progressive web apps (PWAs) and AI integration further complicates the landscape, suggesting a future where the definition of "native" may evolve. The tech community is divided on these changes, with some advocating for a balance between web and native solutions.

Winsage

October 19, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ends: Users Switch to Linux Like Zorin OS

Microsoft ended free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting many users to explore open-source alternatives, particularly Linux distributions. Zorin OS, an Ubuntu-based distribution designed to mimic Windows interfaces, reported a significant increase in downloads and installations from former Windows 10 users seeking secure, cost-free operating systems. Industry analysts noted that many users are reluctant to pay for Microsoft's extended security updates, especially for older hardware that does not meet Windows 11's requirements. This has led to discussions about privacy concerns and dissatisfaction with Microsoft's ecosystem, contributing to what some are calling a "Windows exodus." Zorin OS has capitalized on this shift by offering a user-friendly experience with a Windows-like desktop layout and compatibility tools, attracting non-technical users. The open-source community sees this as a critical moment for mainstream Linux adoption, potentially challenging Windows' long-standing dominance. Hardware companies are also responding by offering Linux-preloaded devices. While challenges like software compatibility exist, the current momentum presents an opportunity for Linux advocates to convert new users into loyal supporters.

AppWizard

October 13, 2025

I ditched Android emulators for this open-source app, and I can’t imagine ever going back

The integration of Android applications into desktop environments is increasingly popular due to their superior functionality compared to desktop versions. Applications like WhatsApp and Google Maps demonstrate enhanced usability on Android, with features such as flexible window resizing and better multitasking capabilities. Waydroid is an open-source project that allows Android apps to run on Linux systems without the performance issues associated with traditional emulators. It utilizes Linux namespaces and shares the host OS's kernel for near-native performance. Users can customize their experience by choosing builds with or without Google apps, and once installed, Android apps integrate into the PC's application menu. Waydroid offers smooth performance and the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously, although it has some limitations, such as restricted hardware access and notification issues. Despite these drawbacks, Waydroid presents a viable solution for users looking to combine Android and desktop computing.

Winsage

September 25, 2025

Google and Qualcomm are prepping ‘desktop’ Android to enable ‘mobile and PC’ in one device, but should Windows and x86 be afraid?

Qualcomm and Google announced a collaboration at the Snapdragon Summit 2025 to develop a desktop version of Google's Android operating system, traditionally used on smartphones. The initiative aims to create a device powered by an Arm chip, moving away from the x86 architecture prevalent in PCs. This development aligns with Google's plan to base ChromeOS on Android, allowing Android apps to run natively on laptops and desktops. The anticipated benefits of the new device include affordability, exceptional battery life due to Arm CPUs, and a seamless web browsing experience. However, challenges remain for the gaming sector, as evidenced by Valve's decision to stop plans for Steam on Chromebooks. The collaboration may indicate a significant shift towards Arm architecture in the PC market.

Winsage

September 24, 2025

Google says more on desktop Android, Qualcomm ‘incredibly excited’

At the Snapdragon Summit 2025, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon and Google’s Rick Osterloh discussed the collaboration between the two companies on the evolving landscape of desktop Android. Google announced in 2024 that ChromeOS would transition to a foundation built on Android, aiming to merge ChromeOS and Android into a cohesive platform. This initiative intends to enhance the ChromeOS experience by leveraging Android's technology and create a common technical foundation for products on PCs and desktop computing systems. The project aims to accelerate AI innovation within ChromeOS, streamline engineering efforts, and improve interoperability among devices. Qualcomm is expected to benefit from a new operating system for its PC-class chips, although specifics about the development of a desktop Android-first offering remain unclear.

Winsage

September 24, 2025

Google just teased its Android-powered PC project, Qualcomm CEO says he’s seen it

Google is collaborating with Qualcomm to unify the technical foundations of Android and PC systems, aiming to blur the distinctions between mobile and desktop computing. Rick Osterloh, Google's Senior Vice President of Devices and Services, emphasized the potential for integrating Google's AI capabilities into PCs. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon expressed enthusiasm for this convergence initiative. Additionally, Google is reportedly working on a multi-year project to merge Chrome OS and Android into a cohesive operating system for various devices. Enhancements to Android for larger screens are already being implemented, suggesting future Chromebooks and possibly a new Pixel Laptop may run on Android instead of Chrome OS.

Winsage

September 24, 2025

Google’s Android for PC: ‘I’ve seen it, it is incredible’

Qualcomm's CEO, Cristiano Amon, expressed enthusiasm for Google's anticipated merger of Android and ChromeOS during a keynote at Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit. He previewed the new software and highlighted collaborative efforts between Qualcomm and Google to bridge mobile and desktop computing. Google's head of platforms and devices, Rick Osterloh, noted the aim to create a common technical foundation for PCs and smartphones, integrating Gemini AI and the complete Android stack. Amon described the software as incredible and aligned with the vision of convergence between mobile and PC. The last update from Google on this initiative was in July, confirming their commitment to merging ChromeOS and Android into a unified platform.

Winsage

September 24, 2025

Qualcomm CEO: Android for PC is coming, and it’s ‘incredible’

Android is expected to extend its reach to PCs, as indicated by a conversation between Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon and Google's head of platforms and devices, Rick Osterloh, during a Qualcomm event. Osterloh mentioned a project aimed at unifying the systems for PCs and smartphones, with plans to integrate Android AI features into the PC ecosystem. Amon expressed excitement about the experimental Android OS for PCs. Google has also confirmed its intention to merge ChromeOS with Android, although specific launch details remain unclear.

Winsage

September 24, 2025

Google Teases Android for PC to Converge Mobile and Desktop Experiences

Qualcomm's 10th annual Snapdragon Summit featured discussions on Google's re-entry into the PC ecosystem through the Android for PC initiative, which aims to unify mobile and desktop experiences. Google plans to merge its ChromeOS and Android for PC projects into a single platform, leveraging advanced AI technologies like Gemini. Qualcomm's CEO expressed excitement about the convergence of mobile and PC technologies. Additionally, Google launched the Google App for Windows desktop PCs, allowing users to search across various sources on their devices, marking an effort to expand its presence in the desktop application market.