Markdown Archives

Winsage

March 23, 2026

PowerToys adds these 8 features that Windows should have had for years

PowerToys is a curated set of utilities created by Microsoft to enhance functionality for power users, evolving from its origins in Windows 95. Users can install PowerToys easily from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features include: - Text Extractor: Captures text from images for easy copying. - Color Picker: Identifies and captures hex codes of colors by pressing Windows + Shift + C. - Command Palette: Allows quick searching of files and launching applications with Windows + Alt + Space. - Awake: Keeps the computer active during long tasks, accessible from the PowerToys menu. - Shortcut Guide: Displays Windows key shortcuts by pressing Windows + Shift + /. - Pixel Ruler: Measures dimensions on the screen by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Shift + M. - File Manager Enhanced Preview: Expands file preview capabilities in Windows Explorer. - PowerRename: Facilitates batch renaming of files with a preview option. These features aim to improve the Windows user experience and may influence future updates to the operating system.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

How I’ve improved Windows 11 with a 30-year-old tool

Microsoft PowerToys is a utility that enhances the Windows experience with additional features. It was first introduced with Windows 95, revived in 2019 as an open-source tool, and is available for free download from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features of PowerToys include: - Pin important windows on top: Users can pin active windows above others using the shortcut Win+Ctrl+T, allowing for better focus on key tasks. - Resize images: The Image Resizer tool allows users to resize images to specific dimensions through right-click options, with presets for Fill, Fit, or Stretch. - Extract text from the screen: The Text Extractor uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to copy text directly from anywhere on the screen by selecting the area with Win+T. - Control multiple computers: The Mouse Without Borders feature enables users to control up to four computers with a single set of peripherals and share clipboard and files. - Customize shortcuts: The Keyboard Manager allows users to remap keys and shortcuts, though some keys are reserved for system functions. - Batch rename files: PowerRename enables users to rename multiple files at once through a right-click option, with a preview of changes. - Thumbnail and preview pane previews: PowerToys enhances file previews in File Explorer for additional file types and adds thumbnail support for files that Windows Explorer does not natively generate thumbnails for. - Crop and Lock: This feature allows users to crop application windows to focus on specific content, with two modes: Thumbnail mode for static previews and Reparent mode for functional cropped windows. PowerToys continues to be a valuable tool for enhancing productivity on Windows.

Winsage

March 18, 2026

Thoughts About Switching ⭐️

Microsoft is tightening user freedoms in Windows 11, such as requiring a Microsoft account for access. While alternatives to Windows exist, the author finds Windows to be the superior choice for desktop productivity despite its challenges. The landscape of desktop operating systems is evolving, with mobile platforms incorporating desktop features, but options like Mac and Linux have their own challenges. User preferences vary, with some prioritizing smartphones over traditional computers. Change aversion affects users of all ages, making it difficult to embrace new workflows. The author has transitioned from Microsoft Word to Markdown for writing, highlighting the complexities involved in changing platforms.

Winsage

March 17, 2026

Microsoft teases image support in Notepad for Windows 11 ahead of roll out

Microsoft is enhancing Notepad for Windows 11 by introducing image support, allowing users to insert multiple images. This feature is currently in internal testing and aligns with Microsoft's strategy to replace WordPad, which has been discontinued. Notepad will also include full markdown support for text formatting, such as italics, underline, bold, and tables, while maintaining its lightweight nature. Enhanced table functionalities will allow users to insert and edit tables easily. Additionally, Notepad will incorporate AI text tools for dynamic interactions, with results appearing line by line. Users can toggle these new features off to maintain the classic Notepad experience.

AppWizard

March 14, 2026

adidas cuts Minecraft Slides to $30, Offset 3-Stripes Beanie $17, more from $14

Adidas has launched markdowns for the weekend, featuring notable discounts on various products. Highlights include: - Originals Youth Originals Remix 4.0 6-Pack Crew Socks - Originals Offset 3-Stripes Beanie - Sportswear ADILETTE SHOWER MINECRAFT SLIDES - Men’s Golf Ultimate365 Hounds Jacquard Polo Shirt - Men’s Running Own the Run Astro Knit Pants Quilted sweatshirts start at a low price, and tomtoc’s 1.5L X-Pac crossbody bag is available for . Customers can explore the full range of deals on adidas's dedicated sale page.

TrendTechie

February 24, 2026

От ffmpeg до торрентов для терминала: 7 новых TUI-инструментов, которые советуем

Many developers are turning to TUI (Text User Interface) tools for tasks traditionally done in GUI applications. MONICA is an interactive layer over ffmpeg that simplifies command usage, available on GitHub. The lic tool allows users to create a LICENSE file with a single terminal command by selecting a license from a TUI menu. It can be installed via Homebrew or pip and debuted in late December 2024, receiving 21 stars. PNANA is a TUI editor that combines the simplicity of nano with features from modern editors like Sublime, built with C++17 and FTXUI. Users need to compile it from source as no binary releases are available. CodeWeaver compiles a codebase into a single Markdown document, allowing for easy sharing and documentation. It can be installed via Go. Clox (version 1.3) introduces console clocks and calendars in the terminal, supporting various time zones and formats, and can be installed as a Python module. Torrra v2 is a TUI torrent client that allows users to search and download torrents directly from the console, enhancing UI speed and navigation. It can be installed via pipx or other package managers. A command for visualizing git history in the terminal is provided: `git log --graph --decorate --all --pretty=format:'%C(auto)%h%d %C(#888888)(%an; %ar)%Creset %s'`. An alias can be created for convenience. All tools aim to enhance productivity in the terminal and are actively evolving.

Winsage

February 22, 2026

Microsoft Is Testing Image Support in Notepad

Microsoft is introducing native image support in its Notepad application as part of its Windows Insider builds, indicated by a new image icon in the toolbar. This feature is expected to enhance Notepad's Markdown capabilities, allowing users to render images in Markdown documents and insert images directly into notes. The changes come after the removal of WordPad from Windows 11, prompting Microsoft to integrate essential features into Notepad to streamline the default app lineup. Notepad has already seen updates like tabs, spell check, and a modernized user interface while maintaining performance. Users can disable formatting and other features to retain the traditional Notepad experience. The updates aim to cater to diverse user needs, including developers and office workers, while simplifying maintenance for enterprises.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Will Microsoft ever stop messing with Notepad? Windows 11 app could soon get another feature — and I’m predicting a backlash

Notepad in Windows 11 is expected to gain a significant enhancement that allows users to embed images, according to reports from Windows Latest. This feature aims to expand Notepad's functionality, making it more similar to Microsoft Word. Notepad has already introduced markdown support, enabling various formatting options. However, longtime users express concerns that adding features may compromise the app's simplicity and performance. Microsoft claims that users can disable certain features and that the new image support will not significantly affect performance. There are also security concerns related to vulnerabilities in the markdown formatting system. This change follows Microsoft's decision to remove WordPad from Windows 11, prompting questions about Notepad's evolving role in the Windows ecosystem.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Exclusive: Microsoft is adding image support to Notepad on Windows 11

Microsoft is enhancing its Notepad application on Windows 11 by introducing image support, which will have a minimal impact on system performance. This addition follows the recent integration of Markdown support, allowing users to format text with options like bold, italics, and hyperlinks. A new image button has appeared in the Notepad toolbar, indicating plans for broader rollout. Internal testing shows that the integration of images with existing Markdown features does not compromise performance. The image support will be enabled by default, with an option to disable it in the Settings menu.

Winsage

February 17, 2026

Microsoft Just Patched a Major Security Vulnerability for This Popular Windows App

Recent developments in Notepad have revealed a vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on users' computers through malicious links in Markdown files. This issue arises from the integration of Markdown support, which enables easy formatting of plaintext documents. An attacker could trick a user into clicking a link that launches unverified protocols, leading to the execution of remote files. Microsoft has addressed this vulnerability in the February 2026 security update for Windows. Users can check for this update in the Settings app under "Windows Update." In 2025, Microsoft patched 1,129 bugs in Windows 11, reflecting an increase in vulnerabilities associated with the integration of AI features.