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Microsoft confirms plans to integrate Copilot with the Taskbar on Windows 11 this summer: Ask Copilot expected to debut "mid-2026"
Winsage
May 26, 2026

Microsoft confirms plans to integrate Copilot with the Taskbar on Windows 11 this summer: Ask Copilot expected to debut “mid-2026”

Microsoft plans to introduce the Ask Copilot Taskbar feature for Windows 11 this summer, following testing with Insiders. This feature will replace the traditional search box on the Taskbar with a chat interface for engaging with Copilot. It aims to integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot and AI agents into the taskbar and Start menu, facilitating quicker actions and minimizing context switching. The new search experience will include a floating popup that allows users to search for local files and interact with Copilot, showing improved accuracy compared to the current Windows Search. Although not available to the public yet, the launch is anticipated by mid-2026, subject to potential delays. Additionally, the Windows K2 initiative is focused on streamlining Copilot integration throughout the operating system.
Windows 11 New Build Adds Screen Tint, Voice Isolation, and Plug-and-Play Braille Display Support
Winsage
May 25, 2026

Windows 11 New Build Adds Screen Tint, Voice Isolation, and Plug-and-Play Braille Display Support

Microsoft has released the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26300.8497, introducing new accessibility features including a Screen Tint option, Voice Isolation in Voice Access, and upgrades to Magnifier and Narrator. The Screen Tint setting allows users to apply a color overlay to reduce screen brightness, beneficial for those with eye strain. It can be accessed in the Settings menu under Accessibility and operates independently of the Night Light feature. The update also enhances Narrator by adding support for plug-and-play braille displays that comply with the HID standard, allowing immediate connection via USB without additional drivers. Compatible braille models include Orbit Reader 20, Orbit Slate 340, Freedom Scientific Focus 40, and APH Mantis Q40. The build addresses several bugs, including a crash in explorer.exe, duplicate Energy Saver quick settings, and issues with audio muting on certain devices. Build 26300.8497 is being rolled out to the Windows 11 Insider Experimental channel, with no announcement yet on availability for the broader user base.
Android ruined link handling years ago. Here's how I fixed it with a free app
AppWizard
May 23, 2026

Android ruined link handling years ago. Here’s how I fixed it with a free app

LinkSheet is an open-source application designed to improve link-handling on Android devices by reinstating the "Open with" dialog, allowing users to choose their preferred app for opening links. It intercepts links when set as the default browser, enabling users to select from multiple apps instead of being restricted to verified ones. LinkSheet also allows users to open links in incognito mode for privacy and control over browsing habits. Users can download LinkSheet from its GitHub repository, as it is not available on the Google Play Store. After installation, users can configure their apps to prevent them from opening verified links directly. Additional features include the Use ClearURLs option to remove tracking parameters and an Enable downloader feature for direct download links.
Google Play Store wants you to think twice about canceling that app subscription
AppWizard
May 22, 2026

Google Play Store wants you to think twice about canceling that app subscription

The Google Play Store has introduced a feature that allows app developers to prompt users to consider downgrading their subscriptions during the cancellation process. When users attempt to cancel, they will see options to keep their subscription, cancel it, or switch to a more affordable plan. This update includes an in-app Subscription Management API that will enable users to change plans directly within apps. The cancellation process remains largely unchanged, although users may need to scroll further to complete it. Developers can also offer discounted subscriptions to encourage users to stay subscribed.
Big changes are coming to Android Auto — these are the music apps in line for a major redesign
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

Big changes are coming to Android Auto — these are the music apps in line for a major redesign

Google has announced design enhancements for music applications in Android Auto as part of the Android Auto 17.0 beta, revealed at the I/O 2026 developer event. The update will benefit apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Gaana, PocketFM, and TuneIn. The Car App Library updates provide developers with more flexibility in app interface design, allowing for user-friendly experiences that reduce distractions. New features include an adaptive mini-player for media apps and additional component types like Chip and CondensedItem. Developers are encouraged to join the early-access beta program to utilize the new Car Library App templates.
This tool lets you purge Windows 11 of all AI bloat features
Winsage
May 20, 2026

This tool lets you purge Windows 11 of all AI bloat features

Microsoft's Copilot chatbot is integrated into various Windows 11 applications, including the Edge browser, Photos app, and Paint software. Users can manage and disable unwanted AI components using the open-source program FlyOOBE, available for free on GitHub. To use FlyOOBE, users download a ZIP file, extract it, and run FlyOOBE.exe as an administrator. The program allows users to check the activation status of AI components and disable those they do not want by selecting them and confirming the changes. If FlyOOBE freezes, users can close the "Windows PowerShell" window to re-check components. FlyOOBE also offers features for removing bloatware. While it is free, donations to the developer, Builtbybel, are appreciated.
MSHTA abuse helps malware hide in Windows processes
Winsage
May 20, 2026

MSHTA abuse helps malware hide in Windows processes

Bitdefender's research highlights the use of Microsoft's MSHTA utility in malware attacks, noting its default activation in Windows systems. Cybercriminals exploit MSHTA to execute malicious scripts under the guise of legitimate processes, linking it to various malware families like LummaStealer and PurpleFox. The study reports a rise in MSHTA-related detections, indicating a shift towards "living-off-the-land" tactics that utilize legitimate tools to evade security alerts. Social engineering is identified as a common entry point for attacks, employing deceptive methods such as fake software downloads and phishing links. MSHTA can retrieve and execute additional payloads through multi-stage chains, complicating detection efforts. The attacks target sensitive information, including credentials and financial data, and the continued presence of MSHTA poses risks as it allows threat actors to conceal malicious actions. To mitigate these threats, organizations are advised to restrict or disable legacy scripting tools and exercise caution with untrusted downloads. The report emphasizes the challenge of detecting unusual behaviors associated with legitimate utilities in the context of cyber threats.
Google is pushing Android app building into a faster, more agentic era
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

Google is pushing Android app building into a faster, more agentic era

Google is introducing a streamlined workflow for Android app development through its AI Studio, which integrates native app building and reduces the time from concept to launch. At the I/O 2026 event, Google highlighted that developers can now create functional Kotlin code using natural-language prompts, access a browser-based emulator, and conduct internal testing without extensive setup. The AI Studio can generate production-quality native Android code via Jetpack Compose, allowing for in-browser previews and easy project transitions to the Internal Test Track. This initiative aims to enhance the developer ecosystem, particularly benefiting startups by minimizing early experimentation costs and enabling faster iterations. Google is also addressing developer loyalty by providing effective tooling that encourages developers to stay within its ecosystem. The AI Studio connects with Google Workspace and offers a mobile app for project iteration, positioning itself as a gateway for broader software projects. This evolution in Android development emphasizes a shift away from traditional setups towards an AI-assisted workflow, influencing the speed and adaptability of startups.
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