OCR Archives

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Snipping Tool is getting a handy new feature for screen recording

Microsoft has released a new version of the Snipping Tool (11.2501.7.0) for Windows Insiders, which includes a video trimming feature that allows users to edit screen recordings directly within the app. Users can record a screen session, open the recording, and use the Trim button to adjust the start and end times. Additionally, Microsoft is developing new Optical Character Recognition (OCR) features expected to be unveiled by the end of 2024. Other updates for Windows Insiders include enhancements for Copilot+ PCs, new Start menu layouts, and a new method for sharing files between devices.

Winsage

February 21, 2025

The Windows 11 Snipping Tool is about to get a killer new feature

Microsoft is adding an advanced optical character recognition (OCR) feature to the Snipping Tool, improving text extraction from images. This feature was discovered by PhantomOfEarth during Windows beta testing and will allow users to extract text with just a couple of clicks, eliminating the need for preliminary screenshots. The Snipping Tool is pre-installed on all Windows 11 devices, making the OCR functionality readily accessible without additional downloads.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

7 ancient apps you can still use in Windows 11

Disk Cleanup, introduced in Windows 98, helps users reclaim disk space by removing system restore points, temporary files, and remnants from outdated Windows Updates. Windows Media Player, which debuted with Windows 3.0, remains available in Windows 11 and is used for playing DVDs and organizing music collections. The Control Panel has been part of Windows since 1985 and provides access to legacy tools, although Microsoft encourages users to use the modern Settings app. Character Map, introduced in Windows 3.1 in 1992, allows users to access every glyph in installed fonts and is useful for inserting specialized characters. Notepad, a staple since 1983, has received updates including spell check and rich formatting options in Windows 11. The Snipping Tool, first introduced in Windows Vista in 2007, has evolved to include features like screen recording and OCR-powered text extraction. WinZip, a third-party compression tool that debuted in 1991, remains popular for managing ZIP files and continues to function on Windows 11.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Upgrade Your Windows 11 Experience with These 10 Free Alternatives to thew Standard Apps

- ImageGlass is a fast and versatile replacement for the default Photos app, supporting various image formats and basic editing tools. - Files App is a modern alternative to File Explorer with features like split tabs, compact views, and smooth navigation. - LibreOffice is a free, open-source office suite that provides alternatives to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. - GIMP is a powerful, open-source image editing tool with advanced features like layer management and color correction. - ShareX, Lightshot, PicPick, and SnipPaste are enhanced screenshot tools offering features like screen recording, annotations, and workflow automation. - ScreenBox is a VLC-based media player with robust format support and a sleek design. - Nora is a modern audio player with dynamic controls, playlist management, and an equalizer. - PDF Gear offers advanced PDF features like annotation, editing, and built-in OCR. - Zen Browser is a privacy-focused web browser built on Firefox, emphasizing security and customization. - Fluid Cast is a dedicated podcast app with offline downloads and progress tracking. - Qalculate! is a versatile calculator supporting basic and complex calculations, while SpeedCrunch is a keyboard-focused calculator for quick calculations.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

9 tools that will supercharge your productivity on Windows

- Microsoft Outlook is a free, built-in tool for managing emails, appointments, meetings, and tasks, featuring calendar sharing and integration with Microsoft To Do. - IFTTT automates repetitive tasks by connecting various apps, services, and devices through customized applets. - The Windows Snipping Tool captures screenshots, records desktop activity, supports full-screen video recording, and has OCR capabilities for text extraction from images. - Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities that enhances the Windows experience, including tools for multitasking, file management, and keeping the PC active. - Grammarly provides real-time grammar and spelling checks, compatible with platforms like Microsoft Word and Google Docs, with a premium version offering advanced features. - Obsidian uses Markdown to create interconnected notes, allowing users to build a personal knowledge base with customizable plugins. - Microsoft 365 includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive, with regular updates for new features and security. - UniGetUI is a package manager that simplifies app installations by allowing users to select and install multiple applications simultaneously. - Flow Launcher allows users to quickly launch applications, files, and websites, enhancing workflow efficiency and providing flexibility as a portable app or standard installation.

BetaBeacon

December 27, 2024

Free Apps: Last-minute Gifts After Christmas!

Android apps and games that are free for a short time include Evertale, Defense Zone 3 Ultra HD, Sphaze, Last Plant on Earth, Rooftop Snipers, Dino Rush, and Out There Chronicles - Ep. 2.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

Microsoft Edge drops yellow for folders (favourites), gets monoline transparent look

Microsoft Edge has updated to version 131.0.2903.112, introducing a design shift that replaces the yellow-themed favorites folders with a monoline, transparent aesthetic. This change has received mixed reactions from users, with some expressing ambivalence and frustration over the lack of customization options. A temporary workaround exists for reverting to the classic yellow folder icons by modifying the msedge.exe shortcut. Additionally, Microsoft Edge is set to introduce new features, including pop-ups to encourage users to set it as the default browser and enhancements like on-device AI capabilities and improved PDF reading with OCR technology.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

How to extract text from screenshots with the Snipping Tool in Windows 11

Microsoft's Snipping Tool in Windows 11 now includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities, allowing users to extract text from screenshots and images. This feature enables direct copying of text, formatting as a table, or redacting sensitive information. To use it, users must have version 11.2308.33.0 or higher, which can be confirmed in the app's settings. The process involves opening the Snipping Tool, taking a screenshot or opening an existing image, clicking the Text actions button, and then copying the extracted text to the clipboard. Similar OCR functionalities are also available in Microsoft Photos and PowerToys.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Hands on with Microsoft’s Windows Recall: Not impressive yet

The Recall system features a user-friendly interface indicated by a blue icon in the system tray that lights up when active. Users can filter out specific applications and websites in the Settings window for a personalized experience. Recall employs robust encryption protocols to protect snapshots, requiring authentication for access. It includes advanced "text matches" for reliable data retrieval and integrates optical character recognition (OCR) technology to extract text from images, allowing users to manipulate captured data easily.

Winsage

November 28, 2024

Microsoft Releases Recall in Windows Insider Preview

Microsoft has released a first-look preview of its revamped Windows Recall feature for Windows Insiders via the Dev Channel, specifically for users with Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Plus Copilot+ PCs, through Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.2415 (KB5046723). Recall allows users to take "snapshots" of their PC activities, retrieving application actions, websites visited, or documents accessed. It uses optical character recognition (OCR) to extract text from screenshots, storing images and text in a searchable database. Recall includes a built-in neural processing unit for local AI and machine learning tasks, ensuring user data is not stored in the cloud. To enhance privacy and security, users must opt in to save snapshots, and the system requires BitLocker disk encryption, Secure Boot, and Windows Hello for reauthentication. Users can delete snapshots and opt out of using Recall for specific applications. IT administrators will manage Recall for enterprise and educational users. The preview allows users to provide feedback on Recall and its security framework through the Feedback Hub and Windows Insider Preview Bug Bounty Program. Microsoft has not announced a timeline for the general release of Recall.