distraction Archives

AppWizard

June 13, 2025

5 apps I install on every new phone

Unboxing a new smartphone is an exciting experience that includes setting up essential apps. Spotify provides access to millions of tracks and integrates with Android Auto for music and podcasts. Avast Antivirus offers robust protection and features like threat scanning and a network scanner, ensuring digital security without excessive ads or subscriptions. FitOn is a fitness app that sets realistic goals, tracks activity levels, and offers tailored workouts, including features like celebrity trainers and meal plans. Brave is a browser app that blocks ads and trackers, providing a distraction-free browsing experience with customizable settings. Microsoft 365 allows access to Word and Excel files on the go, with OneDrive for document storage and backup, although some features remain underutilized. These five applications enhance daily smartphone use by serving unique purposes.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

Make your Windows 11 taskbar transparent for a cool, minimalist vibe

Many users find the standard Windows 11 taskbar distracting and prefer a minimalist approach with a transparent taskbar. Windows 11 has a native transparency option under Settings > Personalization > Colors, but it typically results in a frosted glass effect. The TranslucentTB app, available for free on the Microsoft Store, allows users to customize the opacity and color of their taskbar. To use it, users should download and install the app, find the TranslucentTB icon in the System Tray, and select "clear" from the Visible Window menu for full transparency. Users can also adjust Security and Privacy settings if the app does not function properly. TranslucentTB offers dynamic behavior options, allowing the taskbar to change transparency based on user activity, such as becoming transparent only when a window is maximized.

Winsage

June 5, 2025

5 Windows terminal tricks I use to improve my productivity

Windows Terminal is a productivity tool in Windows 11 that allows users to manage multiple profiles, such as Windows PowerShell and Linux distributions, within the same window. Users can rename and recolor tabs for easier navigation. The Command Palette, activated by Ctrl+Shift+P, provides a searchable interface for commands, simplifying execution without needing to memorize shortcuts. Focus mode hides the title bar and tabs for distraction-free use and can be set as the default launch option. The split pane feature enables users to display multiple profiles simultaneously, enhancing multitasking. Quake mode keeps the terminal visible at the top of the screen, minimizing distractions and allowing easy access to other applications.

AppWizard

June 1, 2025

I replaced my Kindle with this E Ink tablet that runs Android – and don’t regret it

The Onyx Boox Page is a seven-inch E Ink display e-reader priced at 9, running a streamlined version of Android 11. It allows users to download various applications, enhancing its functionality beyond traditional e-reading. The device supports note-taking in Google Keep or Docs and offers access to apps like Instagram and YouTube, although video playback is limited. It includes a protective flip case, customizable user interface options, and straightforward access to a control panel. The Boox Page features dedicated Library and Store apps, Bluetooth capability for audiobooks, and a battery life rated for up to six weeks on a single charge. It has 32GB of base storage with a microSD card slot for expansion. The device lacks automatic light temperature adjustment and operates on an older version of Android, but ongoing updates are expected.

Winsage

May 30, 2025

Text Formatting in Notepad begin rolling out to Windows Insiders

Notepad version 11.2504.50.0 is rolling out to users in the Canary and Dev Channels on Windows 11. The update introduces lightweight formatting with support for Markdown-style input, allowing users to apply bold, italic, hyperlinks, simple lists, and headings using a new formatting toolbar. Users can revert to plain text or switch between formatted Markdown and Markdown syntax views easily. There is also an option to disable formatting support in the app settings.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Google might be working on a new Gemini UI that makes sense on tablets

Google is enhancing the user experience of its Gemini platform on tablets with a new beta release that features a tablet-friendly layout, including a sidebar for quick access to chats and a hamburger menu for navigation. The updated design includes shortcuts for starting new conversations and searching past discussions, as well as a modified prompt bar that highlights tools like “Deep Research” and “Canvas.” A new “Search History” function allows users to retrieve past chats using keywords. The latest beta version (v16.20.48.sa.arm64) for Android mirrors the web interface, with a left-hand sidebar for navigation and practical shortcuts for new and archived chats. Users can switch between different Gemini models using a dropdown menu, and a full-screen mode option is available to hide the sidebar for a distraction-free view. The timeline for the widespread rollout of the tablet-optimized layout is currently uncertain.

AppWizard

May 27, 2025

Fantasy co-op roguelite action game LORT announced for PC

Big Distraction, a new studio formed by veterans of the AAA gaming industry, has announced its first project, LORT, a cooperative roguelite action game for up to eight players set in a cursed fantasy realm. The game is scheduled for release on PC via Steam in the fourth quarter of 2025. LORT allows players to engage in battles, loot treasures, and accumulate power-ups while working together or playing solo. Key features include customizable weapons, over 100 unique power-ups, challenging bosses, and the ability to shape gameplay experiences through selected ingredients and quests. An announcement trailer and screenshots are available for viewing.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Google teases media app updates for Android Auto, and they look good

Google has announced updates for Android Auto aimed at improving media applications, revealed at the I/O 2025 event. Key updates include the introduction of the “SectionedItemTemplate,” which organizes content into distinct sections for better usability, and a revamped “MediaPlaybackTemplate” that allows developers to customize the “Now Playing” screen layout. Google is also enhancing the “Car App Library” to enable richer experiences for media apps. Popular platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music will be among the first to implement these changes, although a timeline for the updates is not yet confirmed.

BetaBeacon

May 9, 2025

Why Android’s hidden custom modes are such a productivity game-changer

- The custom mode feature was added to Android 15 QPR2 - The first step is to open the Settings app - You can set a schedule for your custom mode - Tap the Modes Quick Tile to select the mode you want to use - Remember to disable the mode when you're done with the task

AppWizard

May 8, 2025

How to customize YouTube notifications on Android

YouTube's Android app now allows users to customize notification preferences for new videos, comments, and live streams. This feature enables users to receive updates that align with their interests while reducing irrelevant alerts. Adjusting these settings is easy within the app, enhancing the overall viewing experience.