desktop environment Archives

Winsage

February 28, 2026

Steam OS vs. Windows: Which Wins for Handheld Gaming?

The handheld PC market is currently divided between powerful Windows devices, like the ASUS ROG Ally X, and Steam OS-powered devices that focus on gaming immersion. Steam OS allows users to access their game libraries immediately upon booting, providing a distraction-free experience. In performance comparisons, devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S show a 69% speed increase on SteamOS (39 fps) compared to Windows (23 fps), while the ROG Ally X can see a 32% performance boost with SteamOS. Battery life differs significantly, with the Steam Deck offering 3 to 6 hours of gameplay versus the ROG Ally X's 2 to 4 hours, despite the latter having a larger battery. Windows handhelds provide compatibility with various gaming platforms but suffer from inefficiencies due to background processes that consume CPU resources. Microsoft's Xbox Full Screen Experience attempts to improve usability but does not resolve the underlying issues. Windows handhelds typically have 8GB or 16GB of VRAM, which may be insufficient for future games, while SteamOS's lighter footprint allows for better VRAM allocation, enhancing performance. SteamOS is gaining traction not necessarily due to technical superiority but because of its efficiency in addressing the unique constraints of handheld gaming.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

Will the Control Panel ever die? Rare feature migration to Settings spotted in Windows 11, but don’t get your hopes up for more of this

Microsoft has transitioned the feature of changing account names from the Control Panel to the Settings app in the latest preview build of Windows 11 (build 26300.7877). The migration of features from the Control Panel to the Settings app is progressing slowly, with only isolated options being moved, which may disrupt the user experience. Microsoft is focusing on resolving foundational issues within Windows 11 this year, which may limit resources for the Control Panel migration, leading to speculation that complete integration of the Settings app may not occur until 2026 or later. Users should adjust their expectations regarding the phasing out of the Control Panel.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

This Smartphone Lets You Use Windows, But Is Far From A New Windows Phone

Microsoft discontinued Windows Phone in 2017, a decision regretted by CEO Satya Nadella. Nex Computer is now taking pre-orders for the NexPhone, which aims to run Android, Linux, and Windows 11. The device features a custom Mobile UI designed for touch interactions, reminiscent of Windows Phone. When connected to an external display, it offers full Windows 11 capabilities but lacks cellular connectivity in Windows mode. The NexPhone is not intended to replace primary smartphones but serves as a secondary option with mid-range performance, powered by Qualcomm's DragonWing QCM6490 chip, 12GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. It operates on Windows for Arm, which may present compatibility issues. While in Windows mode, cellular calling and SMS functions are unavailable, requiring users to switch to Android for those features. The device has a rugged design with military-grade build quality, a 120 Hz 6.58-inch display, a 64 MP main camera, and a 5,000 mAh battery, priced at 9.

Winsage

February 11, 2026

The Windows 98 Toaster is Here

YouTuber Throaty Mumbo successfully ran Windows 98 on a smart toaster by disassembling the Revolution Cooking High-Speed Smart Toaster and using a Raspberry Pi 5 to emulate a late-1990s Pentium II PC. He created a custom program called “toast.exe” to facilitate communication between the Windows 98 interface and the toaster's hardware. The project resulted in a functional system that allows users to operate the toaster through a retro Windows 98 environment, complete with a 7-inch HDMI monitor and a 3D-printed shell designed to resemble a classic PC.

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

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.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

I found a Linux user who switched to Windows 11 after 8 years of distros — and he actually prefers it. Here’s why.

Windows 11 is often criticized for being overly restrictive, bloated, and focused on AI features, while Linux is praised for its control and transparency. A former Linux user who switched to Windows 11 after eight years found that Windows 11 improved workflows and offered better compatibility and hardware support, despite acknowledging its shortcomings like data harvesting and mandatory account creation. The user appreciated tools like Scoop and Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) for enhancing their experience. The narrative emphasizes that the choice between operating systems is personal, with Windows 11 appealing to users for its convenience and compatibility, while Linux remains valued for its flexibility and control.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

I found a Linux user who switched to Windows 11 after 8 years of distros — and he actually prefers it. Here’s why.

Critics describe Windows 11 as overly restrictive and bloated, with a focus on AI and Copilot features, while Linux is seen as an ideal alternative for developers prioritizing control and transparency. A former Linux user switched to Windows 11 after eight years with various distributions, finding that Windows embraced workflows that suited their needs. They discovered tools like Scoop, which functions as a package manager, and appreciated the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) for its integration without the challenges of desktop Linux. Despite acknowledging criticisms of Windows 11, such as data privacy concerns and unwanted interface changes, the user found Windows 11's compatibility and user-friendliness appealing. The narrative emphasizes that operating system choices are personal and depend on individual workflows and needs.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

I Have 5 Major Concerns About Google’s Android Desktop OS

Google aims to transform Android into a comprehensive desktop operating system, but faces several challenges. The mobile-first design of Android complicates the transition to desktop, as true desktop productivity requires features like advanced window management and keyboard shortcuts, which many Android apps do not support. Additionally, the optimization of applications for desktop use is uncertain, and developers may not have incentives to adapt their software, leading to poorly optimized user experiences. Android's file management system is less intuitive than traditional desktop operating systems, which could frustrate users handling large projects. Concerns about Google's commitment to long-term support for an Android desktop OS arise from its history of discontinuing projects. Lastly, if the platform does not offer specialized solutions for professionals, it risks becoming mediocre and failing to attract users.

AppWizard

January 29, 2026

I turned my phone into a Linux desktop with this free app

Smartphones can function as desktop replacements, exemplified by the Steam Deck and the introduction of Local Desktop, which allows users to install a full Arch Linux environment on Android devices. Users can run applications like VS Code and Firefox by connecting a keyboard, with installation taking about ten minutes and not requiring root access. However, the installation process may require multiple attempts for stability due to various errors. Once set up, users can enhance their experience with the yay package manager, although some applications may not perform optimally. Local Desktop operates by installing an Arch Linux ARM64 filesystem within the app's internal storage and using proot to create a chroot-like environment. The display mechanism employs a minimal Wayland compositor for improved responsiveness. While it offers a portable Linux environment, performance can vary, and it is not suited for heavy workloads. The experience may appeal to tech enthusiasts willing to navigate its challenges.