macOS Archives

Winsage

February 10, 2026

10 open-source apps I recommend every Windows user download

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users, particularly on Windows. Notable applications include: 1. LibreOffice: A comprehensive office suite with a customizable interface, supports MS Office formats, and is free to download. 2. Flow Launcher: A file search and application launcher that enhances efficiency, customizable, and free to use. 3. Duplicati: A zero-trust backup solution with encryption and scheduling features, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, free to install on Windows. 5. Franz: Consolidates multiple messaging platforms into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: Allows users to create custom top bars for system information and quick access controls, enhancing the user experience. 7. File Converter: Simplifies file conversion and compression within the Windows file manager, available for free. 8. Bitwarden: A password management tool with a free version and additional paid features for collaboration. 9. AutoHotKey: Automates tasks on Windows through scripting, free to install and use. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI interaction tool that prioritizes privacy, free to use on Windows.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

I’ve wanted this for ages: WhatsApp Web can now handle calls

WhatsApp Web now allows users to make and receive audio and video calls directly from their browser, featuring end-to-end encryption and screen sharing. This capability is currently available only to beta users, with plans for a broader rollout soon. Group calls are not yet supported but are expected to be introduced later.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

Windows 11 Moves Closer To Android App Continuity

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11's cross-device capabilities, allowing users to transition Android app activities to their PCs. This feature enables users to resume activities like music playback, document editing, and web browsing directly on their Windows computer. Initially limited to OneDrive activities, the functionality now includes resuming Spotify playback, editing Microsoft Office documents, and restoring browsing sessions from mobile devices using Microsoft Edge. This feature has been in testing since August and is included in the latest Windows 11 Release Preview update. The approach is similar to Apple's Handoff feature. The update also includes expanded support for MIDI 2.0, improvements to voice typing, enhanced fingerprint sensor compatibility for Windows Hello, and broader language support for the new Settings Agent.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

I Switched From Windows 11 to Linux Mint. Here Are 7 Things It Does Way Better

Linux Mint is a free operating system that can be downloaded without any licensing fees, in contrast to Windows 11, which costs between 9 for the Home Edition and 9 for the Pro Edition. It has minimal hardware requirements, running efficiently on traditional AMD- or Intel-based systems, with a 3GB installer and support for devices with as little as 2GB of RAM. Linux Mint features a cleaner and more organized desktop interface compared to Windows 11, with three different editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, catering to various user preferences. Users can test Linux Mint risk-free via live USB drives, and it operates without AI features, unlike Windows 11. It collects minimal diagnostic data, prioritizing user privacy. However, Linux Mint does not support major software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft 365 desktop applications, and some hardware drivers may be lacking. Users may need some technical knowledge for optimal use.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

I tried QuickLook for Windows, and now I won’t give it up

The author transitioned from Windows to Mac and discovered macOS features like Spotlight Search, Hot Corners, a built-in file converter, and QuickLook, which enhanced their user experience. Upon returning to Windows, they sought alternatives and found the QuickLook app, which allows users to preview files by selecting them and pressing the space bar. QuickLook can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store and operates system-wide, enabling previews of various file types, including documents, images, media files, and compressed ZIP files. The app also allows basic modifications, such as editing text in Word documents and cropping images. QuickLook improves file browsing in Windows File Explorer and Open/Save dialog boxes and supports plugins for specialized file types.

Tech Optimizer

January 30, 2026

NordVPN blocks 92% malicious sites in independent phishing test

NordVPN successfully blocked 92% of phishing websites in an evaluation by AV-Comparatives, highlighting the effectiveness of its anti-malware tool, Threat Protection Pro. The assessment, conducted from January 7 to January 19, 2026, analyzed 250 phishing URLs, with NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro ranking fourth among tested products. The tool is designed to protect users from various online threats and operates at the network level, scanning traffic directly on the user's device. Threat Protection Pro is available to higher-tier subscribers on the Plus, Complete, and Ultra plans, and is compatible with Windows and macOS. Despite slipping from previous podium finishes, Threat Protection Pro has consistently ranked high in evaluations and was the first VPN service to receive AV-Comparatives' approval for anti-phishing protection in 2024. It also received accolades from AV-TEST and West Coast Labs for its phishing detection capabilities.

Winsage

January 30, 2026

I found a Linux user who switched to Windows 11 after 8 years of distros — and he actually prefers it. Here’s why.

Critics describe Windows 11 as overly restrictive and bloated, with a focus on AI and Copilot features, while Linux is seen as an ideal alternative for developers prioritizing control and transparency. A former Linux user switched to Windows 11 after eight years with various distributions, finding that Windows embraced workflows that suited their needs. They discovered tools like Scoop, which functions as a package manager, and appreciated the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) for its integration without the challenges of desktop Linux. Despite acknowledging criticisms of Windows 11, such as data privacy concerns and unwanted interface changes, the user found Windows 11's compatibility and user-friendliness appealing. The narrative emphasizes that operating system choices are personal and depend on individual workflows and needs.

Tech Optimizer

January 30, 2026

Bitdefender vs McAfee

Bitdefender and McAfee are both established antivirus solutions that achieve similar lab test scores, often earning 18 points in assessments by AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. Bitdefender offers a more economical pricing structure, with its Antivirus Plus plan priced between .99 and .99 per year for three devices, while McAfee's plans start at .99 for one device. In real-world malware protection tests, Bitdefender achieved a 99.8% protection rate, compared to McAfee's 99.3%. McAfee includes firewall protection at the antivirus level, while Bitdefender reserves its firewall for higher-tier plans but offers better exploit protection. Bitdefender successfully thwarted 11 out of 12 ransomware attacks in controlled tests, while McAfee's ransomware protection is less reliable. Both offer limited VPN services, with Bitdefender providing 200MB per day and McAfee offering between 250MB and 500MB per month. McAfee completes scans more quickly but uses more CPU, while Bitdefender is more thorough. Bitdefender includes additional security features like anti-tracker and secure browser, whereas McAfee's features are more limited.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

I Have 5 Major Concerns About Google’s Android Desktop OS

Google aims to transform Android into a comprehensive desktop operating system, but faces several challenges. The mobile-first design of Android complicates the transition to desktop, as true desktop productivity requires features like advanced window management and keyboard shortcuts, which many Android apps do not support. Additionally, the optimization of applications for desktop use is uncertain, and developers may not have incentives to adapt their software, leading to poorly optimized user experiences. Android's file management system is less intuitive than traditional desktop operating systems, which could frustrate users handling large projects. Concerns about Google's commitment to long-term support for an Android desktop OS arise from its history of discontinuing projects. Lastly, if the platform does not offer specialized solutions for professionals, it risks becoming mediocre and failing to attract users.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

GeForce NOW Brings GeForce RTX Gaming to Linux PCs

The native GeForce NOW app for Linux PCs is now available in beta, supporting Ubuntu 24.04 and later, allowing users to stream games with GeForce RTX capabilities directly from the cloud. The app introduces ten new games, including The Bard’s Tale IV: Director’s Cut and The Bard’s Tale Trilogy. It offers high-performance gaming with resolutions up to 5K and 120 fps or 1080p at 360 fps. The app is optimized for PCs and notebooks, providing a native experience similar to the existing GeForce NOW app for Windows and macOS. New game releases include Cairn, The Midnight Walkers, Prototype, Prototype 2, Warhammer 40,000: SPACE MARINE 2, Half Sword, Vampires: Bloodlord Rising, and Total War: Three Kingdoms.