elegance Archives

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

Android 16 QPR1’s new recents screen makes split-screen easier to find

In the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 release, Google redesigned the recents screen to improve user experience by making the app context menu more accessible. The new interface includes a pill-shaped button displaying the app's name and a downward arrow for additional options. The redesign addresses discoverability issues by allowing users to easily identify apps corresponding to task previews. The context menu offers seven primary actions: “App info,” “Split screen,” “Pin,” “Pause app,” “Screenshot,” “Select,” and “Close,” with the “Save app pair” option appearing only for split-screen tasks. Aesthetic enhancements include pill-shaped containers for the “Screenshot” and “Select” buttons and a blurred background of the user's wallpaper, aligning with Google’s Material 3 Expressive theme.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Best VPN for Android 2025: NordVPN Voted Best of VPNs for Android

NordVPN has been recognized as the Best VPN for Android in 2025, continuing its commitment to trusted VPN services since launching its Android app in 2016. The user interface has been redesigned for a streamlined experience, featuring a clean, map-based home screen and easy server access. It has received praise for exceptional speed on Android devices, attributed to its NordLynx protocol, and boasts over 7,000 servers in more than 100 countries for reliable internet access. NordVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy to protect user privacy and includes advanced security features like Threat Protection Lite. The app is optimized for battery efficiency and offers robust customer support, including 24/7 live chat. NordVPN's competitive pricing plans and various payment methods enhance its accessibility.

Tech Optimizer

April 24, 2025

4 things I wish somebody told me about Windows before I switched to it

The ongoing rivalry between Windows and Mac sparks passionate discussions among tech enthusiasts, with users appreciating the unique advantages of each platform. The Apple ecosystem offers limited premium models with consistent performance, while Windows provides a vast array of options, leading to significant performance variability based on specifications. Windows has a large selection of software, but its quality can be inconsistent compared to Apple's App Store. Additionally, Windows is more vulnerable to viruses and online threats, requiring robust antivirus solutions. Users may encounter more error messages and compatibility issues on Windows, necessitating more frequent restarts. Syncing files from an iPhone to a Windows PC can also be challenging for those accustomed to the Apple ecosystem.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

Change these 4 Windows settings for a more minimalist look

The text discusses ways to enhance the Windows user experience to make it more aesthetically pleasing and organized, similar to a Mac. Key modifications include: - Using the application TranslucentTB to make the taskbar transparent or hiding it in desktop mode. - Decluttering the taskbar by removing unnecessary icons through the right-click menu. - Shrinking desktop icons by selecting "Small icons" or hiding all icons for a cleaner look. - Pinning frequently used applications to the Start Menu for easier access and unpinning less essential apps to reduce clutter. - Emphasizing that a cleaner desktop can improve focus and productivity by minimizing distractions.

AppWizard

April 8, 2025

Blue Prince is currently the best-reviewed game of 2025

Blue Prince is a highly acclaimed puzzle game, described by Chris Livingston as a creation of "incredible craftsmanship and elegance." It is a run-based room drafter that has captivated players and critics, currently holding the title of the highest-rated game of 2025, surpassing major releases like Monster Hunter Wilds, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, and Assassin's Creed Shadows. The game emphasizes knowledge accumulation for progress, with players mastering room placement strategies and uncovering narrative notes. Critics, including Oscar Taylor-Kent and Christian Donlan, praise its ability to weave compelling mysteries and explore relationships with spaces. Tom Marks compares it to celebrated titles like Return of the Obra Dinn and Outer Wilds, highlighting its rich narrative and patient delivery of lore.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows Logo: A Visual Evolution of Microsoft’s Iconic Designs

- Windows 1.0 and 2.0 did not have a distinct logo and relied on traditional Microsoft branding. - Windows 3.1 introduced the iconic four-pane window logo, marking a significant shift in branding. - The logos for Windows 95 and 98 featured a cleaner Sans-Serif font and represented an evolution in branding. - Windows ME had a revamped logo aimed at a younger audience, featuring a green frame. - Windows XP introduced a bold, expressive logo with a 3D effect, marking a new era in branding. - Windows Vista's logo embraced glassmorphism and was consistent with Windows 7, showcasing a glossy finish. - Windows 8 introduced a flat blue logo reflecting minimalism and the new Metro UI. - Windows 10 retained a minimalist approach with a darker shade of blue logo. - Windows 11 featured a straighter, more minimalistic logo with slight curvature of the edges.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

There’s One Huge Problem With That Xbox Handheld Teaser From ASUS

Project Kennan is Microsoft's Xbox gaming handheld, currently in the prototype phase with a release expected within the year. Microsoft may collaborate with ASUS, a potential partner for the device, which aims to enhance Windows 11's gaming interface. A recent teaser trailer from ASUS features their robot mascot, OMNI, and showcases upgrades for the ROG Ally X, including a larger battery, increased storage, and a more powerful processor. The trailer does not indicate that it is the anticipated Xbox handheld, as it focuses on the ROG Ally X Pro rather than the new device.

AppWizard

March 31, 2025

Jennifer Coolidge Chooses Velvet Dress and Strappy Sandal at ‘A Minecraft Movie’ London Premiere

Jennifer Coolidge attended the London premiere of 'A Minecraft Movie' wearing a luxurious velvet dress and black open-toe high-heel glossy sandals. The event took place at Cineworld Leicester Square and attracted significant attention, with Coolidge's fashion choices sparking conversations among attendees.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Raycast is a better launcher than anything on Windows

The author has transitioned from using Flow Launcher on Windows 11 to Raycast on a Mac Mini and finds Raycast to be superior in elegance and functionality. Raycast is described as a comprehensive solution with high extensibility and customizability, offering an intuitive design that enhances productivity. A Windows version of Raycast is anticipated in the future, and the author hopes it will match the quality of the Mac version.

Winsage

March 8, 2025

How to Get Windows Games Working on a Mac

Modern Apple Silicon computers have impressive power, but the gaming landscape on macOS faces challenges, primarily due to the limited availability of popular games that run natively on Macs. Apple phases out support for older applications, such as 32-bit applications, making many older Steam titles inaccessible on newer Macs. For running Windows games on a Mac, three primary tools are recommended: CrossOver, WINE, and Parallels. CrossOver is user-friendly and provides a 14-day free trial, while WINE is free but harder to set up. Parallels creates a virtual Windows environment but comes at a higher cost. Each tool has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on the specific game and user preferences.