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Gemini can now generate PDFs, Word, and Excel files so you don't have to
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

Gemini can now generate PDFs, Word, and Excel files so you don’t have to

Google's Gemini now allows users to create and download files directly within chat conversations, including PDFs, Microsoft Word and Excel files, and Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Users can generate files in various formats instantly without needing to copy and paste content. Supported formats include Docs, Sheets, Slides, PDF, DOCX, XLSX, CSV, TXT, RTF, and Markdown. While users can export work to Google Slides and download it as a PPT file, direct export to Microsoft PowerPoint is currently unavailable. This feature is rolling out to all Gemini users, though some may experience a gradual implementation.
Windows K2 tracker: Keeping tabs on Microsoft's promises to fix Windows 11
Winsage
April 29, 2026

Windows K2 tracker: Keeping tabs on Microsoft’s promises to fix Windows 11

Microsoft has outlined a roadmap for Windows 11 as part of its Windows K2 initiative, focusing on enhancements to user experience by addressing longstanding issues and responding to user feedback. A table detailing Microsoft's commitments includes the following: - Taskbar Repositioning: Allow taskbar at top, left, and right - Status: Preview expected imminently. - Taskbar Customization: More personalization options including smaller taskbar - Status: Preview expected this year. - AI Integration: Reduce unnecessary Copilot entry points in various tools - Status: Copilot in Snipping Tool removed; Notepad Copilot button replaced with AI writing tools. - Windows Update Control: Skip updates during setup; restart/shutdown without forced updates; pause longer - Status: Rolling out now. - File Explorer: Faster launch, reduced flicker, smoother navigation - Status: Work in progress; faster launch times already in testing. - Widgets: Quieter defaults, more control, better personalization - Status: No preview yet. - Windows Insider Program: Simpler channels, clearer definitions, higher-quality builds - Status: Rolling out now. - Feedback Hub: Largest redesign yet - Status: Rolling out now. - System Performance: Reduced resource usage, improved responsiveness - Status: Work underway; some early improvements noted. - WinUI 3 Migration: Move more Windows experiences to WinUI 3 - Status: In progress; Start menu migration confirmed but not yet shipping. - File Explorer Fundamentals: Lower latency for search, navigation, context menus - Status: Committed, not yet being previewed. The Windows K2 initiative aims to improve performance, reliability, and craftsmanship in Windows 11, addressing user feedback to enhance competitiveness against macOS and Linux. The project seeks to reshape internal perspectives on product development to be more user-centric. Regular updates will reflect the latest progress.
ON THIS DAY: Continuum will be built into Windows 10 for Phones, turning your phone into a PC
Winsage
April 29, 2026

ON THIS DAY: Continuum will be built into Windows 10 for Phones, turning your phone into a PC

Windows Central is approaching its 20th anniversary in 2027 and is reflecting on significant moments in its history. A notable milestone occurred 11 years ago with the introduction of Continuum for Windows 10 Mobile, which aimed to merge smartphone and desktop PC functionalities. This feature allowed users to connect their mobile devices to external monitors, keyboards, and mice, creating a desktop-like environment. Key features included integration with Windows 10 for phones, support for HDMI connections, an adaptable user interface, and the ability to run familiar applications like Office on external screens. The announcement was made during the Build 2015 keynote, highlighting the potential of the universal app model to enhance productivity and redefine personal computing.
Google’s ‘Pixel Glow’ might have several lights as laptop animation surfaces [Video]
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

Google’s ‘Pixel Glow’ might have several lights as laptop animation surfaces [Video]

“Pixel Glow” is a forthcoming feature for future Pixel phones that will use subtle light and color on the back of the device to notify users of significant notifications while the phone is face down. It will be compatible with Gemini and will notify users of calls from favorite contacts. The Pixel Diagnostics app includes a “Color LED Check” to test the functionality of the LEDs, which will illuminate in red, green, and blue hues. Google is incorporating eight LEDs for the “Pixel Glow” feature, with a system designed to detect hardware failures. An animation has been discovered that shows an LED strip along the inner edge of an upcoming Pixel laptop, potentially illuminating in colors similar to the Gemini interface.
Motorola News | Motorola & Google announce new Google Photos features
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

Motorola News | Motorola & Google announce new Google Photos features

Motorola and Google are introducing a wardrobe feature in Google Photos, allowing users to create a personalized digital closet by capturing images of clothing and accessories. This feature will debut on Android devices in select regions later this summer. Additionally, Motorola has integrated Google Photos Memories into its content feed, called Daily Drops, which refreshes twice daily with personalized content. The wardrobe feature aims to help users organize outfits and express individuality, while Daily Drops allows users to rediscover memories. The wardrobe feature will be available on various Android devices, including Motorola models, in the coming months, and Daily Drops is already rolling out on select Motorola devices across multiple regions.
Google Translate rolls out new AI-assisted pronunciation practice feature
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

Google Translate rolls out new AI-assisted pronunciation practice feature

Google has introduced an AI-powered pronunciation practice tool in the Google Translate app on Android to celebrate its 20th anniversary. This feature provides real-time feedback on users' pronunciation skills after translating a word or phrase. Users can access a "Practice" button to receive constructive feedback on clarity and accuracy, and they can listen to example pronunciations. The tool is currently available only on the Android app in the United States and India, and it supports English, Spanish, and Hindi.
Slay the Spire 2 devs weren't going to make a sequel, but then the publisher handling the first game's ports shut down and things got 'very murky'
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

Slay the Spire 2 devs weren’t going to make a sequel, but then the publisher handling the first game’s ports shut down and things got ‘very murky’

Slay the Spire 2 has captivated many gamers, with one player logging 118 hours in the game. The sequel introduces a balance shift, two new characters, and a co-op feature. Mega Crit co-founder Casey Yano initially expressed reluctance to create a sequel, preferring to update the original game. However, as game publishing evolved, the studio faced challenges in justifying updates for the PC version while supporting console and mobile players. This led to the decision to develop Slay the Spire 2, which has proven successful.
The Thick as Thieves campaign will be 'at least four hours' in length, which is pretty short, but on the upside it's a whole lot cheaper than I ever would've guessed
AppWizard
April 29, 2026

The Thick as Thieves campaign will be ‘at least four hours’ in length, which is pretty short, but on the upside it’s a whole lot cheaper than I ever would’ve guessed

Otherside Entertainment announced that their upcoming stealth-focused heist game, Thick as Thieves, will be available for a fixed price of in the U.S., £5 in the UK, and €5 in Europe. The game will feature two playable thieves, two dynamic maps, six pieces of gear, and 16 contracts, with an introductory campaign estimated to last at least four hours. The multiplayer PvPvE component has been dropped in favor of solo gameplay. The launch date is set for May 20 on Steam and the Epic Games Store.
5 ways your Windows updates are about to get a lot less painful
Winsage
April 29, 2026

5 ways your Windows updates are about to get a lot less painful

Microsoft is implementing changes to the Windows Update process in Windows 11 to address user frustrations. Key updates include: 1. Users can delay updates indefinitely by selecting specific end dates for pauses, extending up to 35 days at a time. 2. The Power menu will now include options for "Update and shut down" and "Update and restart," giving users more control over when updates are finalized. 3. Microsoft is consolidating updates to reduce the number of restarts to one per month. 4. Users will no longer be forced to install updates during the setup of a new Windows PC, allowing updates to occur in the background. 5. Microsoft will provide more detailed information on updates, particularly for driver updates, by clarifying the device class in the titles. These changes are expected to be tested in the Windows Insider program before being released to the general public.
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