keyboard Archives

AppWizard

July 25, 2026

7 Retro-Themed PC Gaming Gadgets Inspired By Iconic Consoles

Retro gaming enthusiasts can enhance their gaming experiences with modern gadgets that merge nostalgia with contemporary technology. The 8BitDo Retro R8 mouse, priced at .99, is designed to resemble the Nintendo Entertainment System and offers Bluetooth, RF Wireless, or wired USB connectivity with a polling rate of 8,000 hertz and a maximum sensor resolution of 26,000 DPI. It comes in three designs: NES, Commodore 64, and original Xbox, and includes a charging dock. The PromoType KeyBoy Advance keyboard, priced at , replicates the Game Boy Advance and requires DIY assembly. It features L and R buttons that are configurable extras and includes a power indicator and speaker grille. The 8BitDo M30 controller, priced at .99, is designed for the Sega Genesis with a six-button layout and compatibility with various devices including PC and Nintendo Switch. The Retro-Bit V2 Wireless Tribute 64 controller, retailing at .99, is optimized for Nintendo 64 games and features improved latency and a classic button layout, compatible with multiple platforms including the Nintendo Switch. The 8BitDo Retro Mechanical Keyboard, available for .99, features a design reminiscent of the NES, customizable A and B buttons, and supports both wired and wireless connectivity with key remapping options. The Ayaneo Retro Mini PC AM02, priced at 9, is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7840HS processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 2TB SSD, suitable for retro and contemporary gaming, ideally paired with a CRT display. The 8BitDo Arcade Stick, priced at .99, features a design inspired by the NES, customizable macro options, and supports USB-C wired and wireless connections, allowing easy switching between PC and Nintendo Switch.

Winsage

July 24, 2026

Microsoft finally lets you fix the worst key on your keyboard

The Copilot key on Windows PCs can now be remapped to function as the Context menu key or the Right Ctrl key with the latest update to Windows 11. Users also have the option to disable the key entirely. Microsoft has provided documentation on how to remap the key under the Bluetooth & devices section. Some users have reported inconsistent availability of the remapping option, which may require enabling a specific feature ID. Additionally, Microsoft’s PowerToys offers a keyboard manager utility for broader key remapping options.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

Microsoft accepts defeat on the Windows 11 Copilot key with a “Do nothing” switch, but PCs still ship with it

Windows 11 is testing a new feature that allows users to reassign the Copilot key to do nothing. The Copilot key has been present on newer Windows PCs since its introduction in 2024, and Microsoft considers a PC an AI PC only if it includes this key. Users can remap the Copilot key to preferred applications or restore it to its original function as the Right Ctrl key. An additional option, “Do nothing,” will make the Copilot key inactive. This feature is currently available in Windows Insider preview builds, with a public rollout expected soon. Microsoft acknowledged that the Copilot key has created challenges for users who rely on the Right Ctrl key or Context menu key, and it plans to allow customization of the Copilot key through Settings. Initially, only two remapping options were planned, but the “Do nothing” option was added in response to user feedback. Microsoft cautioned that remapping the Copilot key to the Right Ctrl key may cause inconsistencies with certain keyboard shortcuts.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

Windows 11 July preview update brings a batch of new features and fixes

Microsoft has released preview updates for Windows 11, specifically for the 24H2 and 25H2 builds, identified as 26100.8942 and 26200.8942. Key features include a redesigned File Explorer with automatic file size conversion, the ability to open folders in new tabs, and improved file previews. Voice Access now includes Voice Isolation to filter background noise. Windows Search can now handle two-letter file names and identify misspelled applications. New customizable settings for precision touchpads are introduced, and the Start menu will show subscription statuses for Microsoft services. Users can set a custom battery level for power-saving mode, and widget usage on the lock screen is simplified. The update is currently available to Windows Insiders and will be rolled out to all users later.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

Surface Pro with Snapdragon X2 is now available with a noticeable graphics bump

Microsoft has launched the Surface Pro 13-inch, integrating Snapdragon X2 processors with a 2-in-1 design, starting at 9.99. It is available in black, platinum, and dune colors. The design resembles its predecessor, the Surface Pro 11, and features enhanced performance with up to a 53% increase in graphics performance. The device offers options for LCD and OLED displays, with the OLED variant favored by creators. The Surface Pro Flex Keyboard is recommended for optimal use and is currently available at a discount. Early feedback indicates improved performance and battery life compared to the Surface Pro 11.

Winsage

July 23, 2026

How to build the ultimate Windows 11 home office setup for freelancers

Freelancers can optimize their Windows 11 home setup by choosing the Pro version for its productivity and security features, including snap layouts, virtual desktops, Focus Sessions, and Microsoft Copilot. Microsoft Office 2024, priced at , offers essential applications like Excel, Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, and OneNote to streamline project management and communication. Investing in a larger monitor enhances productivity and visibility, especially for multitasking, while adjustable tables and blue-light features can improve comfort and reduce eye strain. Quality peripherals, such as ergonomic keyboards and customizable mice, along with a docking station for multiple connections, are crucial for an efficient workspace.

AppWizard

July 19, 2026

18 years later, Gears of War 2 finally comes to PC as a free download

Gears of War 2: Hollow is an unofficial PC port of the 2008 game Gears of War 2, developed by Helios, nearly two decades after its original Xbox 360 release. This custom community build includes the original campaign, multiplayer, horde, and cooperative modes, along with all downloadable content maps. The port is based on a flawed, previously unreleased PC development build and incorporates all content from the Xbox 360 version for single-player gameplay. The multiplayer aspect is still in testing and is advised to be treated as a beta version. The port is compatible with Windows and has been reported to work on Linux-based systems like the Steam Deck. Players can use either a controller or keyboard and mouse, although the user interface defaults to controller prompts. The port features a launcher for customizing settings such as resolution, frame rate limits, and graphical details. Players are encouraged to have a legally obtained copy of Gears of War 2 to respect intellectual property rights.

AppWizard

July 19, 2026

Stop tap tap tapping on your Android keyboard and get the message through faster with this ancient but underrated feature

The demand for faster typing on smartphones has increased, particularly for professionals, students, and interns. Swipe typing, also known as Glide Typing on Gboard, allows users to glide their finger across the keyboard without lifting it for each letter, significantly enhancing typing speed. To use this method on a Google Pixel 8 with Android 16 and Gboard, users should tap on a text box, slide their finger across the keyboard, and lift it only when finishing a word. For Samsung Keyboard users, Swype mode must be enabled in the settings. Gboard's swipe typing feature becomes more intelligent with use, providing word suggestions and allowing users to teach it new words. This feature is effective in multiple languages, including Urdu, and can also be used on Wear OS smartwatches. Although there may be an initial learning curve, swipe typing can greatly improve typing efficiency and is often met with curiosity from others.

Winsage

July 18, 2026

Sound Recorder, Camera, and Windows Studio Effects

Windows 11 includes a suite of audio and video recording applications: Sound Recorder, Camera, and Windows Studio Effects. The Sound Recorder app allows audio capture using PC microphones, featuring a navigation pane, recording area, and playback controls. Users can customize audio input in the Settings app under System > Sound, selecting microphones and adjusting quality formats like “CD quality” or “Studio quality.” Within the Sound Recorder app, users can change the recording format (default is AAC) to MP3, WMA, FLAC, or WAV and set audio quality to Best, High, or Medium. To record audio, users click the red “Start recording” button, with options to stop, pause, or mark significant moments using keyboard shortcuts. Recordings can be played back, managed, shared, renamed, or deleted through the app's interface. Users can also import compatible audio files into Sound Recorder. The Camera app allows users to take photos, record videos, and scan items using the PC's webcam, with an interface similar to smartphone camera apps. Users can customize camera settings in the Settings app under Bluetooth > Cameras, adjusting brightness, contrast, and resolution. Photos are taken in Photo mode, while videos are recorded in Video mode, with options for pausing without creating new files. Windows Studio Effects offers AI-driven enhancements for audio and video calls, requiring a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for some features. Enhancements include automatic framing, background effects, creative filters, eye contact simulation, portrait lighting adjustments, and voice focus. Compatibility can be checked in Quick settings or the Settings app under Bluetooth & devices > Cameras. Each effect can be configured individually through the Settings app or supported applications.

Winsage

July 18, 2026

Edge Drop Clipboard Manager Brings Mouse-Driven Copy Management to Windows 11

A new clipboard manager for Windows 11 called Edge Drop is in early testing, developed by AdiArtist. It enhances the clipboard experience by sitting on the left side of the screen and can be accessed by hovering the mouse or using the Alt+C shortcut. Edge Drop handles text, images, and various file types, automatically integrating copied items. Users can download it from its official website or GitHub, currently at version 0.1.0. The app allows users to drag items into it and features stacking capabilities for grouping related content, although it does not support combining different content types in a single stack. Unlike Windows 11's built-in clipboard history, which supports item pinning and cross-device syncing, Edge Drop focuses on mouse interaction. The name "Edge Drop" may face challenges due to a similar feature in Microsoft's Edge browser, which is being phased out. Users should be aware of potential rebranding and instability as the app is still in development. Installation involves downloading from the official website or GitHub, and it is not available in the Microsoft Store. Edge Drop is designed for creative workflows but may not suit users who prefer keyboard navigation or require clipboard syncing across devices. Ongoing development may introduce new features and improvements.