Enhanced customization Archives

Winsage

August 5, 2025

Windows 11’s top File Explorer alternative just scored a huge win for power users

The Files app on Windows 11 has been updated to version 3.9.14, introducing a new Signatures page in the properties window for viewing digital signatures associated with files. This feature was previously only available in File Explorer. The update also includes enhanced customization options, such as a Dual Pane setting and improved terminology for the "Add pane" action, now called "Split pane." Users can resize columns in the Column View layout and a header displaying the current search query will now appear during searches. Version 3.9.14 is currently in preview mode, and users on the stable version need to download the Files Preview app to access these new features.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

7 features Windows 12 needs to borrow from its competitors

Microsoft has confirmed that the 2024 update will be Windows 11 version 24H2, not Windows 12. Nvidia may wait for Windows 12 to launch its N1X processor for laptops. Potential features for Windows 12 include a streamlined menu bar inspired by macOS, the ability to pin files to the dock from ChromeOS, a native preview feature similar to macOS's Preview, a Quick Insert menu like that on Chromebooks, offline setup options as seen in Linux, enhanced customization options akin to Linux Mint, and a more efficient search function similar to macOS's Spotlight.

Tech Optimizer

July 25, 2025

Best antivirus software for Windows in 2025

Microsoft Defender is the most suitable free antivirus solution for most users, integrated into Windows 10 and 11 by default. It requires no additional effort from users, making it a convenient choice for everyday protection. For paid antivirus options, Bitdefender Total Security is priced from .99 or £49.99 annually for up to five devices, offering extensive features including malware detection, a VPN, and parental controls. Avast One starts at .88 or £32.49 per year for three devices and has a high malware detection rate, along with a built-in firewall and VPN functionality. F-Secure Total begins at .99 or £59.99 per year for one device, providing network protection at the router level and alerting users about compromised services.

Winsage

July 9, 2025

After 4 years, Windows 11 finally beats Windows 10

Four years after its launch, Windows 11 has surpassed Windows 10 as the most widely used version of Windows, with 52% of users on Windows 11 compared to 44.59% on Windows 10. Six months prior, Windows 11 had only 35% market share. The shift in user adoption has been influenced by Microsoft's announcement of an end date for Windows 10 support in October 2025 and the introduction of the Windows Backup for Organizations tool, which has facilitated upgrades for businesses. Despite appealing upgrades, users have expressed frustrations with certain features, such as the right-click menu, which some find less intuitive. Microsoft is rolling out updates to improve user experience, including enabling USB-C ports on certified PCs and introducing new AI features.

Winsage

June 24, 2025

Windows 11 gets a fresh new Start menu and it’s one of the most useful changes to the UI in yonks

Windows 11 has received an update to the Start menu that enhances customization and accessibility for users in the Insider Program. This update allows users to create a scrollable list of applications and categorize them according to personal preferences, improving access to frequently used apps. Users can now switch between Category, Grid, or List views directly from the Start menu, simplifying the customization process. The update also expands scrolling capability, reducing the need for multiple clicks to access additional recommendations and promoting a more organized workspace. Users interested in this functionality can join the Windows Insider Program to select their update channel.

AppWizard

May 31, 2025

OK Google, it’s time to support app icon packs on Pixel phones

The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update introduces new features, including Material 3 Expressive and a "Themes" tab in the Wallpaper and Style app, indicating potential customization through unreleased "Pixel Customization Packs." While the full capabilities of Pixel themes are unclear, they may include new wallpapers, fonts, and app icon designs, addressing the current limitations of app icon customization on Pixel phones. Future updates promise customizable app icon shapes, but lack of support for third-party icon packs remains a significant drawback compared to competitors like OnePlus and Samsung. The introduction of Pixel themes raises hopes for enhanced personalization, particularly regarding icon pack support, which has been a long-standing request from Pixel users.

Winsage

May 20, 2025

Microsoft confirms new “Advanced” Settings for Windows 11

Microsoft introduced the 'Advanced Settings' page in Windows 11 at the Build 2025 developer conference, replacing the 'For Developers' tab and enhancing user customization. It can be accessed via Settings > System > Advanced and offers features such as showing file extensions, hidden and system files, full paths in the title bar, options to run applications as different users, and visibility of empty drives. A new section for 'File Explorer + version control' allows users to link Git repository folders, improving workflow for developers. The 'Advanced Settings' page will be open-sourced on GitHub for ongoing maintenance and updates.

Winsage

May 12, 2025

End of 10 is a campaign to move people over to Linux with Windows 10 support ending

As Windows 10 approaches its end of life, users are considering alternatives like Linux due to stringent hardware requirements for Windows 11. The End of 10 campaign supports this transition by providing resources such as direct assistance, upcoming events for hands-on help, and step-by-step installation instructions for various Linux distributions. Advantages of switching to Linux include cost-effectiveness, an ad-free experience, and enhanced customization. The recent release of Fedora 42 with KDE Plasma as the flagship edition offers a familiar interface for users transitioning from Windows.

AppWizard

April 29, 2025

What can we expect from Minecraft 1.21.80 Update | Esports News – The Times of India

The 1.21.80 update for Minecraft introduces several quality-of-life improvements, including the Flat World Presets feature, which allows players to select templates for flat world creations such as "Redstone Ready," "Snowy Kingdom," and "Water World." This feature is accessible in the Advanced tab on the Create New World screen and enhances player customization. The update also upgrades Mojang's Realms service by adding server region preference settings, enabling players to choose the geographical location of their Realm and providing information about the active server region upon logging in. Additionally, the update aligns the random offset behavior of trees, plants, and environmental blocks between Bedrock and Java editions, promoting consistency across platforms. Various fixes are included, such as resolving a bug with the "invincible pet" mob and changing the use of fireworks for Elytra to prevent unintended activations.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

This third-party Windows tweaker finally lets you uninstall Edge and set a classic File Explorer style

The latest version of Wintoys, v2.0.81.0, allows Windows 11 users in the European Economic Area (EEA) to uninstall Microsoft Edge, a feature previously restricted to EU users due to regulatory requirements. Wintoys simulates the necessary conditions for this capability, enabling users to remove Edge through Microsoft-sanctioned processes. Additionally, Wintoys v2.0.81.0 includes enhancements such as a Classic File Explorer Theme, System Settings Restoration, Real-Time Updates for system properties, and improved File Explorer functionality. Wintoys is available for download from the Microsoft Store.