minimalist approach Archives

Winsage

March 7, 2025

Hands-on: Listary is a lightweight launcher that levels up your productivity on Windows

Listary is a hybrid app launcher and file search tool designed to enhance productivity by providing quick access to applications and files. Users can launch apps by pressing Ctrl twice, which opens a search bar for swift navigation, reducing reliance on the Windows Start menu. It features fast file search capabilities, allowing users to customize their search index and filter results based on content types and modification dates. Listary includes a Quick Switch feature for instant folder access and integrates with various third-party applications. However, it lacks extensive extensibility through plugins, offering limited advanced capabilities compared to competitors.

Winsage

March 3, 2025

You might mock Microsoft’s new emoji button in Windows 11 but as someone that’s explained how to quickly access emojis and special characters too many times, I get it

Microsoft has introduced a dedicated emoji button in the taskbar of the latest beta build of Windows 11, allowing users to quickly access various emojis, including the thumbs-up. This feature can be activated using the Win + . shortcut, which brings up a window with emojis, emoticons, gifs, clipboard options, and special characters. Microsoft aims to improve the discoverability of this emoji panel, acknowledging its importance in a blog post. The feature is currently being tested in beta update 22635.5015 and is expected to be integrated into the main version of Windows soon. Users can also enable or disable system tray icons for a minimalist interface.

AppWizard

December 24, 2024

How to enable and use Simple View on a Pixel phone

The Simple View feature was launched with the December Pixel Feature Drop as part of Android 15 for Google Pixel phones. It enhances accessibility by allowing users to modify multiple settings simultaneously, including larger text and icon sizes, a simplified home screen layout, simplified 3-button navigation, higher touch sensitivity, shortcuts for Contacts, Clock, and Weather apps, high-contrast wallpaper, an increased app grid to a 4x4 display, and locked suggested apps. Certain features are only available during the initial setup of the device. Users can enable Simple View by factory resetting their Pixel device or through the Settings app after setup, though some changes may not take effect afterward. Simple View is not available for the Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, or Pixel Tablet.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Android 16 may promote this Google app to a core app that cannot be uninstalled

Google Keep is set to become a system app in Android 16's Developer Preview 2, meaning it will no longer be uninstallable, although users can disable it. This change aligns with Google's plans to introduce a new lock screen notes feature. As a system app, Google Keep will be integrated more deeply into the Android ecosystem, alongside other core applications. The anticipated lock screen note-taking feature is expected to debut with Android 15, allowing users to take notes without unlocking their devices.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

An emoji button may be coming to the Taskbar on Windows 11

Microsoft is exploring the introduction of an emoji button on the Taskbar in Windows 11, as revealed by a hidden feature ID discovered in a recent preview build. Although the option in the Windows Settings app is currently non-functional, it indicates that Microsoft is considering this addition. The emoji button is expected to function similarly to the Pen Menu button and will reside in the System Tray, with options for visibility based on user preferences. Users can currently access the emoji panel by pressing the Windows key and the period button, which includes various emojis, kaomojis, GIFs, and symbols. The new button aims to improve visibility and accessibility of the emoji panel, while also allowing users to disable it if desired.

Winsage

November 20, 2024

Microsoft is launching a $349 desktop PC that only runs Windows 11 by streaming it from the cloud — is this the future of desktop computing?

Microsoft has introduced its first dedicated desktop PC, the Windows 365 Link, priced at 9, set to launch in April 2025. This device operates exclusively through cloud technology, utilizing Windows 11 via the Windows 365 platform and is designed for enterprise customers. It measures 120 x 120 x 30 mm, features a fanless design, rapid boot times, and instant wake capabilities. It supports dual 4K displays and includes three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an audio jack, an Ethernet jack, DisplayPort, and HDMI. The device is powered by an Intel processor with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, relying on a constant internet connection to function. It will leverage Copilot+ features for enhanced functionalities and is expected to run a lightweight version of Windows, potentially based on the CorePC edition codenamed NXT. The Windows 365 Link aims to redefine the desktop experience, particularly in schools and flexible workspaces, catering to the growing trend of cloud computing.

AppWizard

November 13, 2024

Zerocam wants to be the cure to over-processed smartphone photography

Zerocam is an innovative camera app for Android that promotes a minimalist approach to photography, prioritizing authenticity over excessive enhancement. The app features a simple interface with a viewfinder and shutter button, aiming to counteract automatic enhancements typical of smartphone cameras. Users can take only five AI-free photos per day without a subscription, which offers full functionality. Comparisons with the Pixel 7 Pro show that Zerocam produces softer, warmer tones, contrasting with the sharper, more processed images from Google’s default camera settings. Zerocam is available for download on the Play Store.

AppWizard

October 16, 2024

The Puzzle Maker Cebba’s Odyssey (PC) Review – Video Game News & Reviews

Developed and published by Arcaneworks Inc., The Puzzle Maker: Cebba’s Odyssey features a minimalist design focused on puzzles. The game has a seven-by-seven grid battlefield and requires players to eliminate enemies using various traps and units with unique characteristics. There are 34 levels set in a repetitive Grasslands backdrop, leading to monotony. The storyline, presented through brief cutscenes, lacks depth and fails to engage players. The minimum system requirements include a 64-bit processor, Windows 7 or newer, Intel Core i3 M380 processor, 4 GB RAM, Intel HD 4000 graphics, and 150 MB of available storage.

BetaBeacon

August 19, 2024

Redmagic 9S Pro review – “Great for games, not for selfies”

The Redmagic 9S Pro has a unique "Red Switch" on the side of the phone that activates the GameSpace gaming interface, allowing for customization of the gaming experience. Additionally, the phone features an AI companion called Mora that can be programmed to assist in-game.

AppWizard

August 17, 2024

This is the best Nova Launcher alternative

Nova Launcher, once a popular app launcher for Android, has seen a decline in its user base following its acquisition by Branch in 2022 and subsequent layoffs in August 2024. A new alternative, Kvaesitso, has emerged, gaining popularity for its minimalist design and streamlined user experience. Kvaesitso features a single vertical scrolling page, a favorites widget for frequently used apps, and a tagging system instead of traditional folders. It allows users to access a broader app list by swiping down and offers customizable gestures. While it includes widgets, they are organized vertically on one page, differing from Nova's multi-page layout. Kvaesitso is open-source and free to use, but it is not available on the Play Store, requiring updates from platforms like F-Droid or Obtanium. Other alternatives to Nova Launcher include Hyperion Launcher, Niagara Launcher, and Lawnchair, each offering unique features and customization options.