formatting Archives

Winsage

April 27, 2025

I tried the Windows Snipping Tool’s new text extraction feature and here’s how it went

A recent update to the Snipping Tool on Windows 11 has introduced an OCR feature, currently available only to beta channel users. This feature allows users to extract text from images and standard web pages easily, with a straightforward activation process. Users can draw a box around the desired text, and once recognized, a button appears to copy the text to the clipboard. The tool successfully retains formatting when extracting text from web pages. It performs well with clear printed text in images but struggles with handwritten text, producing numerous errors. The Snipping Tool is effective for recognizing simple fonts, enhancing productivity in text extraction.

Winsage

April 24, 2025

Reinstalled Windows? Now is the time to Ninite it

Ninite is a tool that simplifies the installation of applications and runtimes during the setup of a fresh Windows LTSC edition. It allows users to create a custom installer that can be reused to update applications to their latest versions. Windows 10 will reach its support deadline in October 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11 or consider LTSC editions, which have support until 2027 or 2032 for US English. Users must back up data and have the necessary media and license keys for applications when switching to LTSC, which involves formatting and reinstalling the PC. Ninite enables users to select applications from its website, creating a single installation program that automates the process without unnecessary prompts. It offers a wide range of software, including web browsers, graphics packages, developer tools, messaging apps, and utilities. Additionally, users may need device drivers, for which Snappy Driver Installer Origin can be useful, while O&O ShutUp10++ can help disable Microsoft telemetry.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

I tried installing Windows on an ReFS drive, and I actually don’t hate it

Microsoft has been developing a new file system called ReFS (Resilient File System) to eventually replace NTFS. Users can boot Windows 11 from an ReFS drive, but the setup process is complex and requires formatting the drive using the Command Prompt. After installation, Windows 11 operates normally on ReFS, offering advantages in data resiliency and durability, especially for virtual hard disks and Storage Spaces. However, performance tests show that ReFS is slower than NTFS across various metrics, indicating it may not provide speed enhancements for general use. ReFS is seen as a promising alternative to NTFS, with potential future improvements in performance, particularly for specialized workloads.

Winsage

April 15, 2025

There’s AI Inside Windows Paint and Notepad Now. Here’s How to Use It

Companies are integrating artificial intelligence into their software, with recent updates to Windows applications like Paint and Notepad showcasing AI enhancements. In Windows Paint, a Copilot button introduces three features: 1. Image Creator: Users can generate images from descriptive prompts, selecting styles for the output. 2. Generative Erase: This tool lets users remove unwanted elements from images and fills in the background using surrounding pixels. 3. Remove Background: This feature isolates the main subject of an image by turning the background white. Generative Erase and Remove Background are free, while Image Creator requires AI credits available through Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro subscriptions. In Windows Notepad, the Copilot button offers features to refine existing text: 1. Make shorter and Make longer: Adjusts the length of selected text. 2. Change tone: Modifies the text's tone to be inspirational, formal, casual, or humorous. 3. Change format: Restructures text into lists, marketing language, or poetry. 4. Rewrite: Provides previews of rewritten text for selection. Notepad's AI-powered rewrites are limited for free users, with extensive use requiring AI credits tied to a Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro subscription. The Copilot button can be disabled in settings for a distraction-free experience.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Why Many Business Owners are Finally Moving on From Microsoft 365

Businesses can purchase Microsoft Office 2024 for a one-time payment of .97, which includes a lifetime license for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. This version does not require subscription fees or auto-renewal and is compatible with both Macs and PCs. It features built-in co-authoring capabilities and AI tools to enhance productivity. The license is linked to a Microsoft account, allowing users to receive updates without ongoing charges.

AppWizard

April 9, 2025

Get HyperOS 2 Android 16 Beta 2 apps today on any Xiaomi device

Xiaomi has released system apps from the HyperOS 2 Beta 16 Android build, allowing users to enhance their devices without flashing the entire beta ROM. The updated applications include: Productivity Apps: - Note (v1.2.6.8) - Premium note-taking features. - Calculator (v15.3.4) - Smarter calculation functions. - Calendar (v16.0.20.10) - Improved scheduling and reminders. - File Explorer (v7.0.4.7) - Efficient file management. Media & Entertainment: - Browser (v19.1.90312) - Enhanced web surfing speed and protection. - Media Editor (v1.8.10.16) - Advanced photo and video editing capabilities. - Gallery (v25100112) - AI photo organization. - Screen Recorder (v2.14.2.4.1) - Smooth screen recording. System Utilities: - Theme Store (v18.0) - Access to new themes for HyperOS 2. - System Updater (v8.8.9) - Improved update process. - Weather (v16.0.5.8) - More accurate forecasting. - Mirror (v17.00.01) - Low-latency screen casting. - Sound Recorder (v6.2.5) - High-quality recordings with noise reduction. - Mi Share (v3.7.1) - Quicker file sharing between devices. - Quick Search (v10.12.1.03137) - Enhanced search functionality. - Always-on Display (RELEASE-2228.3.0.0) - New designs for the feature. - Security Center (v10.7.3-250325.0.1) - Strengthened device protection. - Mi Wallpaper (v4.4.4.1-ALPHA) - Dynamic wallpapers. - MIUI Home Launcher (RELEASE-5.39.31.10941) - Refined home screen experience. - Package Installer (v5.3.3.0.0) - Safer app installation process. To install these apps, users must download the APKs, enable "Install from Unknown Sources," install each APK individually, and restart the device. Each application has been optimized for performance with reasonable file sizes.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

10 Windows features you aren’t using, but should

Recent updates in popular software applications have introduced several features aimed at enhancing user experience and productivity. 1. Phone Link has added a one-click-copy button for messaging notifications, simplifying the sharing of codes and reducing errors. 2. Windows 11's Snipping Tool now includes a “Text actions” button, allowing users to extract and manipulate text from screenshots. 3. PowerToys enables users to paste text as plain text, helping maintain consistency by eliminating unwanted formatting in documents and communications.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Psycho Patrol R, the FPS-Mech sim from the creator of Cruelty Squad, is one of the most challenging, complicated games I’ve ever played⁠—and worth every second it took to figure out its deal

Psycho Patrol R is an early access game that combines immersive simulation, mech combat, and open-ended role-playing. Players assume the role of a bureaucrat-officer in the European Federal Police in an alternate-history 2000, tasked with investigating thought crimes. The game features a hardcore design, requiring patient exploration and experimentation. Players can pilot a mech called the "V-Stalker," which operates on a milsim framework. Weapons are acquired from defeated enemies, and players can customize their character and mech at EFP HQ. The game has a unique saving system involving a holographic globe, and players drop currency upon death, which can be lost permanently if not retrieved. Money serves as both currency and experience points, and players can earn it through missions and eliminating wealthy NPCs. Character stats influence gameplay, and a fatigue meter affects player performance. The Detective class is recommended for its hacking tool and high perception stat. The hacking minigame requires players to input passwords and manipulate characters into recognizable words. Advanced tips include targeting specific NPCs for cash and exploring thoroughly for loot. An eight-minute video guide offers strategies for newcomers.

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.

AppWizard

March 21, 2025

New ways to collaborate and get creative with Gemini

Gemini is a tool for content creation that allows users to generate high-quality first drafts and refine their work quickly through an intuitive feedback mechanism. It offers editing tools to adjust tone, length, and formatting easily. Gemini is useful for crafting speeches, revising essays, and enhancing blog posts and reports. Additionally, it aids in programming and software development by excelling in code generation, debugging, and providing explanations. With the introduction of Canvas, users can create web apps, Python scripts, games, and simulations efficiently. Canvas allows for the generation and preview of HTML/React code, enabling users to visualize their designs and make instant updates. This platform simplifies the coding process, promoting collaboration and innovation by allowing users to create, edit, and share their code and designs in one place.