innovative applications Archives

AppWizard

December 23, 2025

Android 16 made me fall back in love with split-screen and app pairs

Google introduced a feature called app pairs with Android 15, allowing users to save two apps as a single icon for simultaneous launching in split-screen mode. Initially available only on tablets, it expanded to devices like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and other smartphones. Early users found the multi-window mode cumbersome due to limited display space. Android 16 improved this with a 90:10 split-screen mode, prioritizing one app while minimizing the other, enhancing multitasking on smaller displays. The ability to save app pairs streamlines launching two apps side-by-side. Users have found productivity benefits by pairing apps like Spotify with fitness trackers or productivity tools like Slack and Asana.

Tech Optimizer

December 13, 2025

After PostgreSQL, DigitalOcean now adds MySQL and Redis to its managed databases’ offering

DigitalOcean has expanded its Managed Databases service to include MySQL and Redis, alongside its existing PostgreSQL support. This service offers fully-managed database instances with features such as simplified setup and maintenance, free daily backups, standby nodes for automated failover, end-to-end security, and scalable performance. The expansion was driven by demand from customers and the developer community. The new offerings are currently available in data center regions in New York, Frankfurt, and San Francisco, with plans for further regional support.

AppWizard

October 5, 2025

Iranian Messenger Apps Able to Find Users in Persian-Speaking States

Iranian messenger applications are looking to expand into markets with cultural, linguistic, and religious ties to Iran, such as North Africa, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India. Amin Sharifi, managing director of Soroush Plus, highlighted the potential for these apps to succeed through collaboration among policymakers and tech professionals. Additionally, there is interest from Iranians abroad in using these platforms to connect with families in Iran. A knowledge-based company has developed a ChatGPT-inspired AI assistant application aimed at improving work processes and productivity, with a focus on process automation, intelligent support, and data analysis across various sectors. Fardin Aqadadashi Dinabad, the managing director of this company, emphasized the application's advanced AI capabilities.

Winsage

September 29, 2025

Microsoft Releases Windows ML: Simplifying AI Integration for Apps

Microsoft has launched Windows ML, an AI framework designed to integrate AI models into Windows applications, allowing local inferences on various hardware, including CPUs, GPUs, and NPUs. It abstracts hardware complexities to optimize performance across devices and supports AI formats like ONNX for compatibility with multiple vendors. Windows ML integrates with the Windows App SDK and offers APIs in languages such as C#, C++, and Python, facilitating the development of AI-enhanced applications. Performance benchmarks indicate up to 4x faster inference on NPUs compared to CPUs. The framework aims to create a hybrid AI ecosystem, balancing local and cloud processing. Windows 11’s 24H2 update requires NPU support in Copilot+ PCs, aligning with edge computing trends. Microsoft’s strategy emphasizes cross-hardware compatibility, potentially benefiting enterprise environments. Challenges remain in model training and security, and Microsoft plans to enhance Windows ML with future updates.

Winsage

September 11, 2025

Microsoft Waives Onboarding Fees for Indie Developers in Store

Microsoft has announced the elimination of onboarding fees for individual developers wishing to publish apps on its Microsoft Store, effective September 2025. This change removes the previous registration fee and the requirement for a credit card, making it easier for independent creators to distribute their software on Windows 10 and 11 devices. The updated signup process will only require a Microsoft account. This initiative aims to enhance the accessibility of the store and attract more developers, particularly solo developers, by lowering financial barriers. While enterprise developers will still face fees, the move is expected to invigorate the Windows app economy and encourage innovation. Developer feedback has been positive, with many expressing excitement about the ease of registration and publishing opportunities.

Winsage

July 6, 2025

I replaced my Windows desktop with this custom shell, and I actually love it

Cairo Shell is an application that transforms the Windows desktop experience by altering the taskbar and user interface elements. It serves as a file browser, displaying the contents of the desktop folder and allowing easy navigation through any folder directly from the desktop. Users can access their desktop contents via a keyboard shortcut or taskbar button, maintaining workflow continuity. The menu bar, reminiscent of macOS, provides access to settings, favorite programs, and user folders, allowing customization and quick access to files. The taskbar features a floating design with adjustable icon sizes and an option to auto-hide, though it does not combine icons for the same application. Cairo Shell is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process that enhances the overall experience.

AppWizard

June 14, 2025

These are the 7 best fitness apps for Android (that aren’t Strava)

There are several alternative fitness apps available on the Android platform for those looking for options beyond Strava. 1. Map My Run: This app allows users to create new running routes, track runs in real-time, and access detailed metrics. It also includes social features for discovering nearby routes and offers running drills and goal-tracking. 2. Yuka: A nutrition-focused app that lets users scan barcodes of food products to analyze their contents, highlighting harmful additives and health benefits. It provides overall product ratings and category rankings to help users make healthier grocery choices. 3. Runna: This app offers personalized running plans based on user-inputted goals. After a trial week, users can subscribe for a fee to receive a tailored daily workout schedule and track progress with compatible smartwatches. 4. Meetup: A social platform that connects individuals through local fitness events, such as run clubs and yoga sessions, promoting community and interaction among fitness enthusiasts.

Winsage

June 5, 2025

Leveling up your Microsoft Store on Windows experience

The Microsoft Store on Windows serves over 250 million users monthly and is enhancing user experience through customer feedback. The homepage is being redesigned to offer personalized recommendations based on user interests and activities. Significant improvements to search functionality include a more intent-aware search feature, the introduction of Copilot for assistance, a "Discover More" section on product pages, and badges for apps with AI features. Integration with Windows is being improved by allowing users to launch searches for Store apps and suggesting apps for specific file extensions. The Store now launches twice as fast, with improved installation reliability. Additional enhancements include the ability to install individual game components, faster in-app rating dialogs, and updated information on product pages. New developer partnerships have been established, and users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub.

Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2025

Snowflake Buying Crunchy Data To Help Enterprises Deploy Compliant AI Agents

Snowflake plans to acquire Crunchy Data, a provider of open-source Postgres technology, to integrate Snowflake Postgres into its AI Data Cloud. This acquisition aims to offer an enterprise-grade, AI-ready PostgreSQL database with strong governance and security for mission-critical AI applications. Snowflake Postgres will be fully compatible with production applications, enhancing capabilities within the AI Data Cloud by leveraging Crunchy Data’s reputation for enterprise readiness in FedRAMP-compliant environments. PostgreSQL is favored by 49% of developers, and Snowflake Postgres will simplify building, deploying, and scaling production-ready AI applications. Customers like Blue Yonder and LandingAI will benefit from accelerated operations and enhanced efficiency through this integration. Snowflake aims to support the Postgres community and existing Crunchy Data customers, unifying transactional and analytical data within a single database. Key stakeholders from both companies express confidence in the acquisition's potential to enhance security and operational capabilities for enterprise organizations.

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.