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DroidDeck Brings SteamOS to Android in an App
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

DroidDeck Brings SteamOS to Android in an App

Valve's SteamOS is now accessible on Android handhelds through an app called DroidDeck, which allows users to engage with games in a familiar interface. The installation process involves disabling the “Child-process limit” in Developer Options and using Wireless ADB Debugging if necessary. Users can then access the Steam section of the app to download essential components like the FEX and Proton drivers. DroidDeck also features a “Desktop” tab for a Linux desktop environment and enables the installation of emulators within the SteamOS. The app is currently available for download on GitHub, and developers are actively working on enhancements and bug fixes.
From searching to doing: Building a faster, more streamlined Windows Search
Winsage
October 8, 2026

From searching to doing: Building a faster, more streamlined Windows Search

Search functionality is essential for navigating Windows PCs, and enhancements to the Windows Search Box were initiated in July to declutter the interface and improve user control. A new Windows Search experience powered by WinUI 3 will be available on the taskbar for Windows Insiders starting October 7, focusing on speed and efficiency with a streamlined design. The user interface has been simplified into a single list format, and improvements include better matching for typos and synonyms. Future updates will introduce inline previews, richer file details, and the ability to filter results. Inline actions will allow users to complete tasks directly from the search interface, such as toggling settings and managing their workspace. There are plans to integrate the new search experience into the Start menu and enhance its capabilities further. The new search experience is rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel, with English as the initial supported language. Feedback can be shared through the Feedback Hub.
Chrome for Android has windows, and they're better than tab groups for multitasking
AppWizard
October 3, 2026

Chrome for Android has windows, and they’re better than tab groups for multitasking

Chrome for Android supports the use of windows, allowing users to open multiple windows, each with its own tabs while sharing bookmarks and settings. Users can open an unlimited number of windows, which appear distinctly in Android's Recents screen. To open a new window on slab-style phones, users activate split-screen mode, tap the three-dot menu icon, and select "New window." For foldable phones, users can skip the split-screen step. Tabs can be moved between windows using the three-dot menu icon. All open windows can be managed through the Recents multitasking screen, where users can assign names or close them. This window functionality enhances multitasking and organization, making mobile browsing more akin to a desktop experience. Other browsers like Samsung Internet and Microsoft Edge have adopted similar features, while Firefox has not.
Windows update leaves some virtual desktops staring into the void
Winsage
September 25, 2026

Windows update leaves some virtual desktops staring into the void

Microsoft has acknowledged an issue affecting some Windows 11 users utilizing virtual desktops, where a black screen appears after sign-in, requiring manual launch of Explorer to regain access. This glitch is linked to devices operating on the August 2026 non-security preview update or later. It has been predominantly observed on Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) hosts using FSLogix, with crashes of Windows Explorer noted in the Application event log. A temporary workaround involves using Task Manager to initiate explorer.exe as a new task. Microsoft has implemented a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) via Group Policy to disable the problematic change until a permanent fix is released. Versions 26H1, 25H2, and 24H2 of Windows 11 are affected, while Windows 10 and Windows Server do not appear to be impacted.
Google Rolls Out Googlebook: A New Era for Android Laptops
AppWizard
September 23, 2026

Google Rolls Out Googlebook: A New Era for Android Laptops

On September 22, 2026, Google introduced the Googlebook, a laptop built on a shared Android foundation, designed to combine the convenience of mobile devices with the power of traditional laptops. Collaborating with manufacturers like HP, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, and Asus, the Googlebook features high-resolution OLED touchscreens, precise trackpads, dedicated keyboards, and boasts a 14-hour battery life. It operates on either Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 processors or Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips, with initial shipping in the U.S. set for October 4, 2026, followed by launches in the UK, France, and Australia on October 5. The Googlebook can run Android applications natively, enhancing multi-tasking capabilities, and developers are encouraged to optimize their apps for the device using Google's Adaptive Development framework. Google plans to provide a decade of software updates for the Googlebook operating system.
Feel peak Windows was 7? You might like Kumander Linux
Winsage
September 8, 2026

Feel peak Windows was 7? You might like Kumander Linux

Kumander Linux is set to launch version 3.0, built on Debian 13.6 with the Xfce 4.20 desktop environment. It aims to replicate the look and feel of Windows 7 using free and open-source software, including LibreOffice 25.2 and GIMP 3.0.4. The distribution replaces the default Task Manager with a new System Manager and includes an intuitive Software Center. It has a download size of 4.25 GB and requires 11 GB of disk space, consuming approximately 725 MB of RAM when idle. The name "Kumander" references Commodore computers and reflects its Filipino origins. The distribution is currently in its Release Candidate 2 phase.
These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best
Winsage
September 4, 2026

These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best

One of the main challenges when transitioning from Windows to Linux is software compatibility. Wine and its frontends allow Windows applications to run on Linux, but the ease of use varies across distributions. Zorin OS integrates Windows application support into its desktop experience, allowing users to install .exe and .msi files directly through its Windows App Support component. It simplifies the process by eliminating the need for complex commands and provides a database of popular Windows installers. Winux (Wubuntu) creates a familiar environment for Windows users but faces challenges with running Windows software, requiring additional configuration for proprietary components. Bazzite focuses on gaming, utilizing Wine-based tools for compatibility but may not cater to everyday Windows applications. Nobara, a Fedora-based distro, emphasizes gaming enhancements and shares similar limitations regarding standard Windows productivity applications. Garuda Linux is aimed at experienced users and offers flexibility with Wine and Proton support, but its complexity may not suit those looking for a simple transition. Zorin OS is identified as the most effective solution for running Windows applications on Linux, providing a manageable transition while maintaining access to necessary software.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
September 4, 2026

These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best

One of the main challenges for users transitioning from Windows to Linux is software compatibility. Linux has many applications, but users often depend on specific Windows programs. Wine and its frontends allow Windows applications to run on Linux without a virtual machine, although the ease of use varies by distribution. Zorin OS integrates Windows application support directly into its desktop experience, allowing users to install .exe and .msi files easily through its Windows App Support component. It provides a familiar workflow and recommends the best usage options for popular Windows installers. Winux (Wubuntu) aims to create a Linux environment that resembles Windows, making it easier for users to adapt. However, running Windows software can be challenging due to compatibility issues with proprietary components. Bazzite focuses on gaming, offering excellent compatibility for Windows games through Wine-based tools, but may not be ideal for users seeking to run standard Windows applications. Nobara Project, based on Fedora, enhances gaming experiences and simplifies configuration for gaming on Linux, but is not primarily designed for running Windows productivity applications. Garuda Linux caters to experienced users and gamers, leveraging Wine and Proton for compatibility but may be complex for those simply wanting to install Windows applications. Zorin OS is identified as the best choice for users needing to run Windows applications on Linux, providing a manageable transition while maintaining a familiar aesthetic.
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