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Winsage

July 30, 2025

Secure Windows with Microsoft’s Security Compliance Toolkit

The Microsoft Security Compliance Toolkit is a suite of tools for administrators to assess Group Policy Objects (GPOs) against Microsoft's security baselines, helping to identify discrepancies and implement secure settings. It includes tools such as the Policy Analyzer, Local Group Policy Object (LGPO) utility, and Set Object Security application. Administrators can download the toolkit from Microsoft's website, which contains zip files for various security baseline packages. The Policy Analyzer compares GPOs with local security policies to identify inconsistencies, while the LGPO tool manages local security policies and allows for policy backup and verification. The Set Object Security tool applies security descriptors to objects like files and folders. For Windows Server, administrators should test security baselines in non-production environments before deployment. With Windows Server 2025, the OSConfig platform allows for direct application of security baselines through PowerShell, simplifying the update process and maintaining compliance.

AppWizard

July 24, 2025

RIP: Google finally sets a timeline for burying Reminders

Google will transition from Reminders in Calendar to Tasks in the second half of 2025, allowing reminders created in Google Keep to be saved directly to Tasks. This integration aims to streamline task management by consolidating reminders into a single application. Users will be able to manage reminders from both the Tasks and Calendar applications, while existing reminders from Keep will be labeled as “From Keep.” The transition will centralize all to-dos and reminders across Google and Workspace applications, ultimately phasing out Google Reminders as a standalone feature.

Winsage

July 24, 2025

Windows 11 just got a wave of AI features — one Snipping Tool addition makes me want a Copilot+ PC

Windows 11 will introduce a range of artificial intelligence features in the coming weeks, with availability dependent on PC hardware. Users with Copilot+ PCs, especially those with Snapdragon X chips, will have access to the most extensive functionalities. A new agent in the Windows Settings app allows natural language modifications of PC settings, currently available only on Snapdragon X-powered Copilot+ PCs. The Click to Do feature is being updated with new actions, accessible via specific shortcuts for compatible Copilot+ PCs. The Photos app will feature Relight, enabling users to manipulate virtual light sources in images, initially available for Snapdragon X-powered devices. The Sticker Generator in Paint allows users to create stickers from prompts, and an object select feature is forthcoming. The Snipping Tool will include a Perfect Screenshot feature for precise captures and a Color Picker for identifying color values on the screen. Copilot Vision, available only in the U.S., provides advice based on screen content, with extended capabilities requiring a Copilot Pro subscription. Quick Machine Recovery will replace the Blue Screen of Death with a less intrusive design. New features will be rolled out gradually, with some already accessible through the latest Windows non-security preview update, and users are encouraged to enable updates in Settings. Certain features remain exclusive to Copilot+ PCs or Snapdragon X processors.

AppWizard

July 23, 2025

Google Photos could soon get a surprising third-party integration (APK teardown)

Google is experimenting with a new feature in its Google Photos app that allows users to edit their Memories using CapCut, a video editing tool owned by ByteDance. An "Edit in CapCut" button has been found in version 7.38 of the Google Photos app, enabling users to edit auto-generated highlight reels of past photos and videos. If CapCut is not installed, tapping the button prompts a download from the Play Store; if it is installed, the memory is sent to the CapCut editor. However, CapCut is not available in certain regions, such as India, where this feature was first discovered. The integration raises questions about Google's promotion of a non-Google app, especially one owned by a company facing scrutiny. The feature has not yet been broadly rolled out or included in the app's beta version.

Winsage

July 22, 2025

Windows 11 is the home for AI on the PC, with even more experiences available today

Nearly 60% of individuals have used generative AI for work-related tasks in the past year, and 64% have used it for personal activities. Windows is introducing a new agent in Settings for Copilot+ PCs, allowing users to make changes using natural language. This feature is rolling out for English-speaking users on Snapdragon-powered devices, with support for Intel and AMD devices to follow. The Click to Do feature streamlines workflows by offering contextual actions related to text and images. The Photos app now includes a Relight feature for professional lighting controls, while Paint has added a sticker generator and object select tool. The Snipping Tool has been enhanced with a perfect screenshot feature and a color picker. Copilot Vision allows users to share their screen with Copilot for real-time assistance. Windows 11 is introducing a recovery mechanism that reduces recovery time from 40 seconds to 2 seconds. These features will be gradually rolled out to consumers.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

One of the best Windows File Explorer alternatives just got a killer new feature

The application "Files" has released an update (version 3.9.12) that introduces a new feature called the Omnibar. This feature combines breadcrumb navigation with search functionality, enhancing the user interface. Key capabilities of the Omnibar include: - Breadcrumb Bar: Displays the current path with expandable breadcrumbs for easy navigation through subfolders, along with a new home button and flyout menu for quick access to frequently used folders. - Edit Path: Allows users to switch to edit mode by clicking an empty space in the breadcrumb bar or using the Ctrl + L shortcut, enabling easy copying or modification of the current path. - Command Palette: Access to advanced commands is simplified with a dedicated button or the Ctrl + Shift + P shortcut. - Search Functionality: Activated by clicking the search icon or pressing Ctrl + F, the search box is focused automatically, with search suggestions appearing in a flyout. The update also includes a filter button for toggling between search and filtering modes and offers seamless integration with OX Drive. The Preview build is available for download on the Files website.

Winsage

July 19, 2025

This free tool is the best way to find and edit registry values on Windows

RegScanner is a free utility designed to simplify the process of locating specific registry keys in Windows 11. It offers highly customizable search options, allowing users to find keys based on specific terms, filter by key names or attributes, and refine results by modification date. The tool also supports remote searches and facilitates the creation of backups for registry items, enabling users to select multiple items for backup in REG and TXT formats. RegScanner is portable, available in a ZIP format, and compatible with Windows XP to Windows 11, requiring no administrator privileges for basic searches. It aims to reduce the time and frustration associated with registry management.

Winsage

July 16, 2025

Notepad’s best feature is its simplicity — and I’m worried Microsoft is slowly taking it away

Microsoft's Notepad has evolved from a simple, fast application into a more cluttered tool with unnecessary features, raising concerns about software bloat. Initially, updates like unsaved changes indicators and improved search functionality were well-received, but the introduction of spellchecking and AI features like Copilot has frustrated users who valued its straightforward nature. In response to these concerns, Microsoft announced a new tool called Edit, aimed at providing a more basic text editing experience, though its accessibility and usability remain uncertain.

AppWizard

July 14, 2025

Take a trip down memory lane with Android Rewind

A new website, AndroidRewind.com, is being developed to chronicle the evolution of Android, starting from Google's acquisition of Android Inc. in July 2005. The site will feature key landing pages including a timeline of Android releases, information on devices that defined Android, details about OEMs, and profiles of notable figures in the Android ecosystem. The initial design was revised for better aesthetics, and images were sourced from Android Central. The website is built using Google Gemini, allowing for flexibility in content editing. Challenges encountered during development included issues with deployment and code editing post-deployment. Future plans for the site include enhancing details for Android releases and devices, and incorporating additional device categories like tablets and wearables.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

These 5 free add-ons make Minecraft Bedrock Edition feel brand new

Minecraft Bedrock Edition offers various free add-ons that enhance gameplay. These add-ons are compatible with platforms like Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo Switch, and Windows 10 or 11. To install Bedrock add-ons, players can access the Marketplace, search for the add-on, and download it. After downloading, players must activate the add-ons in the world settings under Resource Packs. 1. Gravestone Add-On: Stores player items in a gravestone upon death, preventing loss from environmental hazards. 2. Uncrafting Items Add-On: Allows players to break down crafted items into base materials using an Uncrafting Table, though not for a full refund. 3. Echo Crystal Add-On: Introduces Echo Crystals that enable players to phase through blocks above them for exploration. 4. More TNT! Add-On: Adds various types of TNT with unique effects, including "Disco TNT" and "Colossal TNT." 5. Tinkers’ Construct Lite Add-On: Enhances tool crafting and customization, allowing players to build tools from different parts and materials, introducing new tools and a smelting system.