desktop software Archives

Winsage

June 15, 2025

Windows 10’s October 2025 timebomb: my 3 recommendations by Allan Tépper

Windows 10 Home and Pro will stop receiving free security updates in October 2025. Users should consider their reliance on Windows-dependent software when deciding on their next steps. 1. Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, has banned all Microsoft products and services in government offices due to privacy concerns. Users can transition to a Linux distribution and use LibreOffice instead of Microsoft 365. 2. Users can upgrade to Windows 10 IoT for continued security updates until January 2032, which requires a clean install but can be facilitated without wiping the drive. 3. Windows 11 IoT is available for those interested in upgrading, offering less bloat than Windows 11 Home or Pro, but it will only receive free security updates until October 2029. Transitioning to Windows 11 IoT also requires a clean install.

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Windows Notepad and Paint are still free – but the AI will cost you. Here’s how much

Users have enjoyed free access to Windows applications like Notepad and Paint, but new AI features now require a subscription. Notepad can now perform text rewrites based on user preferences, while Paint includes an AI-powered Image Creator. Microsoft is encouraging subscriptions to Microsoft 365 to support AI development, leading to a freemium model for desktop software. Users can access non-AI features for free, but AI functionalities require a subscription, with pricing options including a Microsoft 365 Personal plan and a Family plan. Each plan offers up to 60 AI credits per month, with additional options for unlimited usage through the Copilot Pro plan. The only free feature in Paint is background removal.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Rabbit AI’s new tool can control your Android phones, but I’m not sure how I feel about letting it control my smartphone

HP's acquisition of Humane AI has led to the upcoming launch of Rabbit's Android app, designed as a personal assistant that automates tasks and streamlines daily activities. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, Rabbit's agent can coordinate tasks across various applications, such as sending dinner party invitations via WhatsApp, selecting meals from recipe apps, compiling grocery lists, curating YouTube playlists, and creating revenue plans in Google Docs. The app is not yet widely available but will be downloadable from the Play Store, allowing users to prompt the AI to perform tasks in the background. Rabbit faces competition from other AI tools like OpenAI's Operator and Anthropic's Claude AI, but distinguishes itself by focusing on Android devices and everyday applications. This shift to a software-based model is seen as essential for Rabbit's independence, following the limited success of its standalone R1 device.

Winsage

October 19, 2024

OpenAI just launched ChatGPT for Windows—and it’s coming for your office software

OpenAI has launched a Windows desktop application for ChatGPT, following a macOS version, aimed at integrating AI into daily life. The application is currently in preview for ChatGPT Plus, Enterprise, Team, and Edu subscribers, allowing users to access the AI assistant with a keyboard shortcut (Alt + Space) from anywhere on their PC. This initiative is part of OpenAI's strategy to position ChatGPT as an essential tool in personal and professional settings, enhancing user engagement and data collection. OpenAI is also exploring partnerships beyond Microsoft, including discussions with Oracle and outreach to the U.S. military. The release could transform enterprise software by positioning ChatGPT as a core productivity tool, potentially disrupting traditional software providers. However, OpenAI faces challenges regarding biases in AI models and the implications of its rapid growth and commercialization.