Enhanced Functionality Archives

AppWizard

July 24, 2025

You can now lock your Windows machine via an Android phone app you may already have

Users can now lock their PCs remotely through the Link to Windows app on Android, enhancing security by allowing users to secure their device with a "Lock PC" button. This feature disables the Phone Link functionality while the computer is locked. To use this feature, users must have Link to Windows version 1.25071.165 or later installed.

Winsage

July 21, 2025

Microsoft wants to fix “slow or sluggish” performance in Windows 11

The forthcoming 25H2 update for Windows 11 aims to address performance issues reported by users since the operating system's launch in October 2021, particularly concerning hybrid CPUs during gaming and overall sluggishness compared to Windows 10. Microsoft is actively seeking user feedback to identify and resolve these issues, utilizing a new test build that automatically collects performance logs from Windows Insiders. In 2023, Microsoft has implemented several performance enhancements, including increased speed for the Taskbar and notifications area, improved functionality of the quick settings panel, and reduced performance impact from startup applications. The previous 24H2 update also improved performance on older hardware. Additionally, Microsoft plans to enhance Windows drivers with new requirements for developers, including mandating static analysis for driver certification to identify potential issues before deployment.

Winsage

July 16, 2025

Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant can now optionally see your entire desktop—maybe it will be able to finally explain what Windows error code 0x8007002c means

Microsoft's Copilot Vision AI assistant now allows users to opt-in to share their entire desktop within Windows 11, currently available only in preview builds and not rolled out through Windows Update. This feature enables users to share their desktop, specific browser windows, or app interfaces with Copilot, which can then observe and engage in real-time conversations, providing analysis and guidance. The feature is part of Windows 11 build 1.25071.125 and is limited to users in the U.S. where Windows Vision is enabled. It is primarily targeted at Windows enthusiasts and developers in the Windows Insider program.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

Microsoft just gave the Windows 11 Notepad app a controversial feature that people are either loving or hating

Windows 11's Notepad app has received an update that introduces new formatting capabilities, making it more similar to the retired WordPad. Users are receiving this update through the Microsoft Store for the stable version of Windows 11. Reactions to the update are mixed; some users appreciate the enhancements, while others feel that Notepad is becoming bloated with unnecessary features. Microsoft has included a toggle feature that allows users to disable the new formatting options, enabling them to revert to the traditional Notepad experience.

AppWizard

June 27, 2025

5 apps I recommend to every savvy investor

Rita El Khoury recommends several investment apps based on her extensive experience in finance: - Koyfin: Her favorite for comprehensive market data, including financial records and analyst projections. It is user-friendly and free, with a subscription for additional features. - Yahoo Finance: A widely used app known for its extensive financial data and robust news section, crucial for timely market reactions. It offers a free version and an ad-free premium plan. - TradingView: Best for technical analysis, featuring superior charting capabilities and a community for sharing insights. While Rita focuses on a buy-and-hold strategy, it is valuable for active traders. - Investing.com: Covers a wide range of assets and includes features like watchlists, fundamental data, and alert notifications. It offers a free version and a premium option. - MarketWatch: Provides timely news and analysis, particularly on earnings announcements. It combines news, financial data, and charting but is less robust than Koyfin. It is free, with a premium subscription for more articles. Rita has also tried other services like FinViz and TIKR but found them limited due to the lack of dedicated mobile apps.

Winsage

June 12, 2025

macOS 26 Tahoe fixes a major pet peeve of Google Chrome users

macOS Tahoe introduces a feature that automatically fills SMS verification codes in Google Chrome, similar to a capability already available in Safari. This enhancement aims to simplify the process for users who frequently access multiple online accounts, reducing the time spent on entering verification codes. macOS 26 Tahoe was unveiled during WWDC25, with the developer beta now available, a public beta launching in July, and an official release planned for the fall.

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

Nintendo Switch Parental Control app gets a huge update ahead of a Switch 2 summer

Nintendo has released an updated version of its Parental Control app, available on the Play Store, featuring a redesigned interface and enhanced functionality. The app now includes comprehensive parental controls for GameChat, allowing parents to manage their children's communication and video chat interactions. Parents can also extend gaming sessions on the Switch or Switch 2 by increments of five, fifteen, or thirty minutes, or disable time limits entirely. The update introduces GameChat on the Switch 2, featuring a "C" button for initiating chats and a camera accessory for enhanced virtual interactions. Additionally, Nintendo is addressing potential emulation issues on Android devices with a planned "Game Key Card."

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.

AppWizard

May 23, 2025

NotebookLM is my favorite AI tool, but wow, its Android version is bad!

NotebookLM is Google's AI tool that allows users to curate and manage information by dictating sources for insights. The recently launched NotebookLM Android app offers a functional experience with features like smooth animations and the ability to switch between Google accounts, but lacks essential functionalities such as robust note creation and the Discover feature available on the web. Users have reported slower processing times for Audio Overviews on the app compared to the web interface. Despite initial disappointment, there is hope for improvement and users are optimistic about future updates that may enhance the app's capabilities.

AppWizard

May 21, 2025

Android Auto to get video, browsing, and more weather apps support soon

Google is set to introduce video and browser applications to Android Auto, announced during Google I/O 2025. Video apps will only be operational when the vehicle is parked, and the connected smartphone must run Android 16. Additionally, there will be an increase in weather applications available on Android Auto, as developers can now publish these apps without beta restrictions, provided they meet Google's quality guidelines. Weather apps have been limited since early 2023, but the easing of developer requirements since December 2024 has led to a broader range of offerings. Over 250 million vehicles support Android Auto, with more than 50 car models featuring integrated Google software.