operating system 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 23, 2026

The latest AI-integrated Windows OS is only $13 for a bit longer

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, down from its regular retail price of 9. The operating system features a modern interface with a centered taskbar, revamped menus, enhanced search functionalities, and productivity tools like Snap Layouts. It includes advanced security features such as BitLocker encryption, biometric login options, and TPM 2.0 protection. The integration of Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot, helps users summarize information, answer queries, and assist with writing or coding tasks. The upgrade is cost-effective for compatible PCs.

AppWizard

March 23, 2026

5 Android Apps That Are Probably Slowing Down Your Phone

The optimal range of RAM for smartphone performance is generally considered to be 8GB to 12GB. Power-intensive applications can create challenges, but managing cache, clearing storage, and restricting background usage can help. Certain apps, especially those using location data, require specific permissions and background activity. Users can check battery usage by app in their device's battery health settings, where higher battery consumption often indicates increased CPU and data usage, potentially leading to sluggish performance. Replacing resource-heavy apps with lighter alternatives or limiting background activity may improve device performance. TikTok requires a significant data cache for seamless playback, and its processing power demand can cause performance slowdowns, especially when streaming high-definition videos. TikTok Lite offers a less resource-intensive alternative. Google Photos functions primarily as a cloud-based storage solution, which can affect device performance during image indexing and backups. Spotify's aggressive caching can lead to storage issues, and using Battery Saver mode may throttle CPU performance. Google Maps relies heavily on GPS and runs in the background, increasing data usage and potentially slowing down devices. Instagram can drain battery life through notifications and preloading media, which may lead to storage issues if the cache is corrupted. Reducing notification frequency and managing alerts can help alleviate performance strain.

AppWizard

March 22, 2026

Steam Machine hardware support appears in latest SteamOS build, along with loads of Steam deck tweaks

Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.0 Preview, named "Second Clutch," which includes initial support for upcoming Steam Machine hardware. This update features over 80 lines of changes, including a new graphics driver, enhanced VRR frame pacing, fixes for session crashes in certain games, improved USB racing wheel compatibility, and reinstated Bluetooth Wake functionality for the Steam Deck. The Steam Machine is expected to launch in 2026, with a likely release in the Fall/Winter season. Pricing details for the Steam Machine remain unspecified. The update is available for users in the Steam Deck Preview channel.

Winsage

March 22, 2026

You might soon be able to sign into Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, with software engineers ‘working on it’

Microsoft is considering allowing users to set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, as indicated by Scott Hanselman, a company executive. This potential change aims to enhance user choice and flexibility, addressing concerns from users who prefer not to link their operating system to a corporate account. There is currently no official timeline for when this feature might be implemented.

AppWizard

March 22, 2026

This app gives Android the automatic dark mode feature it desperately needs

Dark Mode is popular among Android users for its eye protection benefits at night, but scheduled switching can feel limiting. The third-party app Adaptive Theme offers a dynamic solution by toggling between dark and light modes based on ambient light detected by the phone's sensors. It automatically switches to light mode in bright environments and dark mode in dim settings, providing a hands-free experience. The app features a user-friendly interface with a master switch, Brightness Threshold settings, and a Current Brightness display for real-time sensor readings. Adaptive Theme does not require root access but needs permissions typically restricted by Android, which it accesses through the third-party app Shizuku. Users may need to experiment with brightness thresholds to find their ideal settings, and the mode switch only occurs after the device is unlocked. Despite some limitations, Adaptive Theme enhances the user experience and raises questions about why such a feature isn't integrated into stock Android.

AppWizard

March 22, 2026

Steam Machine hardware support appears in latest SteamOS build, along with loads of Steam deck tweaks

Valve has released SteamOS 3.8.0 Preview, designed for Steam Decks and the upcoming Steam Machine. This update introduces new features and bug fixes, marking the start of support for Steam Machine hardware. The update includes over 80 lines of changes, with a focus on initial support for the Steam Machine, though details on this support remain unclear. Valve aims to launch the Steam Machine in 2026, likely in the Fall/Winter season, but pricing details are not confirmed. Notable enhancements in SteamOS 3.8.0 include a new graphics driver, improved VRR frame pacing, resolution of session crash issues for specific games, enhanced USB racing wheel support, and re-enabled Bluetooth Wake for Steam Deck LCD. The update is available for users in the Steam Deck Preview channel.

Winsage

March 22, 2026

Microsoft says it’ll make Windows 11 a calmer OS with fewer upsells or ads, as it tries to win back users

Microsoft has confirmed plans to reduce the presence of "upsells" in Windows 11 to enhance user experience. This announcement was made on March 20, coinciding with a significant update focused on performance and quality-of-life improvements. The update includes a faster File Explorer, a transition of the Start menu to WinUI 3, and an option to pause Windows updates indefinitely. There will also be a reduction in the use of Copilot across applications like Notepad. Microsoft is reconsidering the necessity of a Microsoft account during the Out-Of-Box Experience (OOBE) and aims to decrease built-in promotions within Windows 11. Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft engineering leader, acknowledged user frustrations and stated the goal is to create “a calmer and more chill OS with fewer upsells.” Users have expressed dissatisfaction with aggressive marketing tactics, including ads for Microsoft services during the setup process and full-screen alerts encouraging the switch to Edge. While some ads can be disabled, many users feel that they should not encounter advertisements after purchasing the operating system or devices.

Winsage

March 22, 2026

Microsoft could drop the forced Microsoft account sign-in during Windows 11 setup

Microsoft is advocating for a login experience for Windows 11 that does not require a Microsoft account (MSA), as influential engineers within the company express dissatisfaction with the current mandatory sign-in during the out-of-box experience (OOBE). Despite recent updates emphasizing performance and user experience improvements, the option to use Windows 11 without an MSA remains absent. Workarounds exist, but the official guidance still encourages MSA sign-ins. Senior executives, including Vice President Scott Hanselman, are working towards a more flexible setup. Microsoft has confirmed plans to streamline the OOBE, aiming for a quieter and simpler device setup process, with some changes expected to be introduced in April for Windows Insiders.

Winsage

March 21, 2026

Windows users are angry, and Microsoft is finally doing something about it

Microsoft is addressing user dissatisfaction with Windows 11 by implementing several changes. These include enhanced taskbar customization, allowing users to reposition the taskbar; a more selective integration of AI features, reducing unnecessary AI entry points in applications; greater control over updates, enabling users to skip or pause updates; performance improvements aimed at reducing sluggishness in File Explorer and enhancing memory efficiency; and increased reliability by focusing on reducing crashes and improving app stability. Additionally, Microsoft plans to enhance various functionalities, including Bluetooth and USB connectivity, printer support, and search functionality, while also making widgets less intrusive.