desktop environment Archives

Winsage

July 18, 2026

I tried this Linux distro that looks like Windows, is made by a Microsoft engineer, and is based on Ubuntu

AnduinOS is a new Linux distribution created by a Microsoft engineer, based on Ubuntu, designed to provide a user experience similar to Windows 11. It offers both Long-Term Support (LTS) and short-term releases, with the latter featuring enhancements over its predecessor. Unlike Ubuntu, which uses Snap packages, AnduinOS utilizes Flatpak for software management, allowing access to a wider range of applications. The desktop environment closely resembles Windows 11, featuring a taskbar, Start menu, and other familiar elements, enhanced by GNOME extensions. Users can customize the taskbar and Start menu extensively, surpassing the customization options available in Windows. The integration of GNOME extensions, such as Clipboard History and Tiling Shell, further enhances productivity and user experience.

Winsage

July 15, 2026

Indomitus Group Brings indiAccounting to Windows: Buy-Once Accounting and Payroll Now Available for Windows 11

Indomitus Group has launched indiAccounting, a desktop accounting and payroll application for Windows 10 and 11, available for a one-time purchase of 9. This application, initially launched for Linux, offers a robust double-entry accounting system with optional payroll functionality for all 50 states. Unlike subscription-based services that can cost small businesses between ,000 to ,000 annually, indiAccounting allows users to own their software and data without recurring fees. The application operates offline, requires no account setup, and includes features such as double-entry bookkeeping, invoicing, accounts management, inventory tracking, and financial reporting. The optional indiPayroll add-on manages payroll calculations and tax forms for all states. Users can manage an unlimited number of businesses under a single license, with each company maintaining isolated financial records.

Winsage

July 14, 2026

Improving Windows Search Box, with less clutter and more control

Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel are beginning to receive phased enhancements to the Windows Search Box. Key improvements include a streamlined home screen to reduce visual clutter, clearer context for search results indicating their source (app, setting, file, web result, or Store suggestion), and the removal of promotional content from web results. Users can control the display of web and Microsoft Store results through a new setting. Local results are prioritized when relevant, and the search function has improved its handling of typos and partial words. Ranking enhancements for settings results and better file search capabilities have been implemented, along with increased reliability and reduced crashes. Feedback is encouraged through the Feedback Hub.

AppWizard

July 7, 2026

How to run Linux GUI apps on Android (when it actually works)

Android 17 is progressing towards enabling a fully functional Linux desktop environment, allowing for the potential to run Linux GUI applications. The Android kernel is based on Linux, and Google has integrated Linux terminal support. Users face challenges with the implementation of the Weston app, which is intended to provide a graphical environment for Linux GUI applications. The process to enable Linux GUI apps involves several steps, including enabling Linux terminal support, installing Flatpak, and accessing the Wayland terminal. However, users encounter technical hurdles, such as insufficient memory allocation and issues with the D-bus portal, leading to a frustrating experience. Despite some successful attempts to run the Weston command, persistent errors hinder functionality, and the feature is not yet ready for widespread use.

Winsage

July 7, 2026

Valve shares Windows drivers for Steam Machine and says an official dual-boot wizard will ship “once it’s complete”

Valve's Steam Machine runs on SteamOS, allowing users to access their game libraries directly. It can also function as a standard PC, enabling the installation of alternative operating systems, including Windows. Valve has released official Windows drivers for essential hardware components like graphics processors, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and SD card readers, but does not provide technical support for Windows users. Installing Windows requires wiping SteamOS completely, and while dual-booting is possible, an official setup wizard is not yet available. Users must access the boot menu by powering down the device and pressing the Escape key during restart. An internet connection via Ethernet is necessary for the Windows setup process, as Wi-Fi will not work until drivers are installed.

Winsage

July 5, 2026

Windows 11 version 26H2 is packed with surprising upgrades, and these 7 features might change how you use your PC

Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 version 26H2 will be released in the latter half of 2026, transitioning to a streamlined servicing model with a small enablement package instead of a full installation. Key features expected in this update include: 1. A revamped Copilot that enhances search experiences with AI assistance. 2. Customization options for the Taskbar, allowing repositioning and size adjustments. 3. An option to disable web results in Windows Search for a more focused experience. 4. Improved control over Windows Update, including the ability to pause updates for up to 35 days. 5. An Administrator Protection feature that creates temporary accounts for administrative tasks to enhance security. 6. A modern design refresh for the Run dialog box, featuring rounded corners and a "recent commands" section.

AppWizard

June 22, 2026

I tested Android 17 on my Pixel 9 Pro – its app bubbles are a multitasker’s dream

Android 17 has been released for Pixel devices, introducing several new features: 1. Desktop Mode allows users to connect their phones to an external monitor for a desktop-like experience with a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard. 2. App Bubbles enable seamless multitasking by allowing users to bubble apps for quick access from the home screen. 3. The selfie camera can be enabled during screen recordings, allowing users to narrate actions while appearing on screen. 4. The recent apps page now displays full app names and includes a drop-down menu for options like pinning, splitting the screen, taking screenshots, or clearing recent apps. 5. Early support for running GUI Linux applications is introduced, paving the way for future advancements in Linux environments on devices. 6. Enhanced HDR brightness allows users to customize the display of HDR content for a more dynamic viewing experience. The update process for Pixel 9 Pro took approximately 30 minutes, and the rollout for other Pixel devices is expected soon. Other Android users will need to wait for their respective device updates.

AppWizard

June 17, 2026

Android Auto Quietly Added Support For A Surprisingly Useful New App

Adobe Acrobat Reader has been integrated into Android Auto with the v26.5.0.45958 update. Full access to its features requires a subscription, but non-subscribers can use limited free features, including accessing scanned PDFs in Liquid Mode, annotating documents, signing PDFs, and connecting to Google Drive. Visual functions are disabled on the car's screen for safety, but a "Read Aloud" text-to-speech engine is available for free users. Paid subscribers can access high-quality voices, Adobe's AI assistant for file management, a complete mobile editing suite, optical character recognition (OCR), and additional tools, although advanced features are currently not accessible through the dashboard.

Winsage

June 9, 2026

Microsoft is Finally Letting You Move the Windows 11 Taskbar

Windows 11 introduces taskbar customization features that allow users to reposition the taskbar to any edge of the screen (top, bottom, left, or right) and resize it for improved workflow and adaptability. These features are currently available in Windows 11 Insider experimental builds. The Start menu and pinned icons automatically adjust to align with the new taskbar position. Users can enable smaller taskbar buttons to maximize screen space, which is particularly useful for compact devices. The taskbar can also be set to minimize at all times, only when full, or never. These updates aim to optimize screen space and enhance accessibility and personalization for diverse workflows and screen configurations.

Tech Optimizer

June 8, 2026

What Is OneLaunch.exe? Pros, Cons, and How to Remove It

OneLaunch is a software application that creates a personalized dock and desktop environment on Windows computers, often pre-installed or bundled with other software. It has received mixed reviews, with concerns about system slowdowns and its legitimacy. OneLaunch.exe is a background process supporting the OneLaunch application, which provides quick access to applications and updates but can consume system resources. The OneLaunch browser, installed alongside the main application, can alter browser settings and redirect searches, potentially leading to unwanted advertisements. While OneLaunch is not classified as traditional malware, it is often categorized as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) due to its bundled installation and ability to modify system settings. It can monitor browsing habits and share data with third-party advertisers. Users report intrusive behavior, such as altering default browser settings, and it can negatively impact system performance. To remove OneLaunch, users should end the running process, uninstall the application, delete leftover folders, remove startup entries, and reset browser settings. OneLaunch may reappear due to accidental reinstallations, active browser extensions, lingering scheduled tasks, or hidden companion programs. Preventative measures include downloading from official sources, reading installation screens carefully, keeping systems updated, and performing regular system checks.