Enhanced Functionality Archives

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

A personal goodbye to Skype; the app that connected worlds

Skype has officially ceased to exist as of today. It was introduced in 2011-2012 as a more robust alternative to MSN Messenger, allowing for group calls and video interactions. Skype served as a platform for social interactions, job interviews, and long-distance communication. Over time, users shifted to alternatives like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Zoom, especially during the pandemic, leading Microsoft to integrate Skype's features into its Teams platform. Despite its decline, Skype remains a symbol of a bygone era, representing significant moments and connections in users' lives.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Exploring ChromeOS – A New Era In Android App Support

ChromeOS has introduced significant enhancements, particularly in Android app support, improving functionality and integration. The latest updates include upgraded Bluetooth technologies, improved content search capabilities, and the integration of Android 11 changes using virtual machines for better app performance. The initiative "Start building apps for ChromeOS" provides guidance for developers to optimize applications for these devices. Accessibility features like Face Control, Bounce Keys, and Slow Keys have been added to assist users with various needs. Security improvements include theft detection and quick locking, while usability enhancements like Fast Pair simplify device connections. Recent updates also focus on integration and compatibility with existing file systems and support for Android and Linux applications, aiming to create a cohesive ecosystem.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

Ending Soon: Upgrade Your PC to Windows 11 Pro or Home for Only $15

Microsoft will phase out support for Windows 10 in October 2025, making the transition to Windows 11 important. The official price for Windows 11 Pro is 9 when purchased directly from Microsoft. StackSocial is offering Windows 11 Pro at a reduced price, although the specific amount is not provided. Windows 11 Pro includes features like DirectX 12 Ultimate, BitLocker device encryption, Azure-AD integration, and Hyper-V. Customers will receive a lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro upon purchase, and they must ensure their computer meets the minimum system requirements for installation. There is a 30-day window to redeem the download code before it expires.

Winsage

April 28, 2025

I use this app instead of File Explorer for managing my Windows folders

Windows 11's File Explorer is a familiar tool for file management, but alternatives like Directory Opus offer enhanced functionality. Directory Opus, originally developed for the Amiga platform, is a robust file organization tool for Windows. Key features include: - Dual Pane View: Allows simultaneous viewing of files and folders from different locations, facilitating efficient organization. - In-depth Organizational Features: Users can open multiple tabs within each pane, assign statuses to folders, and prioritize tasks. - Built-in Image Converter: Enables conversion of images to various formats and basic editing functions like cropping and rotating. - Synchronization Feature: Allows easy copying and synchronization between panes, with options for sub-folders and integration with cloud services. - Shortcuts to Favorite Apps: Users can create toolbars with shortcuts to frequently used applications for quick access. Directory Opus is designed to exceed file management needs, making it a compelling alternative to File Explorer.

AppWizard

April 24, 2025

Google Maps continues its mission to be mappier than ever with expansion of sheets UI redesign

Google Maps is implementing a new user interface that features a sheets-first design, allowing app elements to appear as sheets while keeping the map view visible. This redesign started with the Explore tab on Android last summer and is now being applied to the You and Contribute buttons, which display a draggable sheet that can cover most or part of the screen. The update aims to enhance aesthetics and improve navigation while maintaining familiar features in the same locations. User feedback on the changes is encouraged as the update continues to roll out.

Winsage

April 16, 2025

Microsoft adds a productivity-boosting feature to the Snipping Tool, and I love it

Microsoft has added a text extractor feature to the Snipping Tool in Windows 11, allowing users to extract text from images. This feature is available in the Dev and Canary channels and enables users to select specific image regions to scan for text. Users can manually select text or use a "Copy all text" button. Additional options include removing line breaks and automatically copying text to the clipboard. To use this feature, users must click the "Text Extractor" button in the Snipping Tool. Microsoft’s PowerToys also offers text extraction capabilities for users not on the Dev or Canary channels.

Winsage

April 5, 2025

Microsoft bundle deal: MS Office and Windows 11 for $54.97

A bundle is available for enhancing existing PCs, including Microsoft Office Professional 2021 and an upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, priced at .97, reduced from the regular price of 8. The Office 2021 suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Windows 11 Pro features a redesigned interface, productivity tools like Snap layouts, multiple virtual desktops, improved voice typing, enhanced search functionalities, and the AI-powered Copilot virtual assistant. Advanced features include Azure AD, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and BitLocker device encryption. Compatibility with current hardware is required, and the offer is not applicable for systems unable to access Windows Update for Windows 11. Prices on StackSocial may change.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Windows 11 is getting a big Start menu overhaul with better layout customization and more — here’s a first look

Microsoft is developing an update for the Start menu in Windows 11 that will integrate the pinned and recommended sections with the apps list into a single interface. The new design will allow users to pin more applications and automatically display all pinned apps. This update was discovered in a recent Windows 11 preview build, and while Microsoft has not officially announced it, it may coincide with the company's 50th anniversary and the Microsoft Build conference in May. Current criticisms of the Start menu include its lack of customization options and the separation of the apps list, which requires an additional click to access. The update aims to address these issues by merging the apps list with the pinned section, similar to the design in Windows 10.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Keeper Security Enhances WearOS App and Android Offline Mode

Keeper Security has enhanced its Keeper WearOS app, previously known as KeeperDNA, to improve security and user experience for smartwatch users. The app now aligns with Google's Android guidelines, featuring a modern interface that allows users to securely view stored credentials and utilize Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) more easily. Key features include Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) code viewing, Watch Favorites for quick access to frequently used logins, and improved offline functionality that allows users to access Keeper data without an internet connection. The account setup process has been simplified, and users can manage offline access and 2FA settings separately. The updated app is available on the Google Play Store and supports zero-knowledge encryption. Future updates are planned to include passkey support and standalone functionality for managing security directly from wearable devices.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Ranking the 10 best PowerToys tools you should be using

PowerToys includes over 25 tools designed to enhance productivity on Windows 11. Key features include: - Mouse without Borders: Connects up to four PCs, sharing mouse and keyboard inputs and enabling clipboard synchronization for items up to 100MB. - Quick Accent: Simplifies typing accented characters by providing a pop-up menu when holding down a character. - Image Resizer: Allows users to resize multiple images simultaneously, offering preset sizes and custom options. - Keyboard Manager: Enables the creation of custom keyboard shortcuts and key remapping for improved efficiency. - Peek: Allows users to preview files in full size by pressing Space, enhancing file exploration. - PowerRename: Facilitates bulk renaming of files using regular expressions for complex tasks. - New+: Lets users create files and folders from templates, ensuring consistency in formatting. - Workspaces: Allows users to launch multiple applications simultaneously and configure app layouts with keyboard shortcuts. - FancyZones: Enhances window management by enabling custom layouts for applications, offering more flexibility than default Snap Layouts. - PowerToys Run: Acts as a fast app launcher, integrating with plugins for enhanced functionality.