pop-up notification Archives

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

YouTube finally gives us a way to turn off Shorts, sort of

YouTube has introduced a feature allowing users to set their Shorts usage limit to zero minutes, effectively blocking access to the Shorts tab on the home feed. This setting can be found under Time management in the app's settings. Once the limit is reached, users will receive a notification when attempting to access the Shorts tab. Shorts will still be accessible through subscriptions and shared links. Initially available for parents, this feature is now being rolled out to all users.

AppWizard

March 20, 2026

Certified Android devices won’t let user sideload APK app files anymore, or at least it won’t be straightforward

Starting September 2026, Google will regulate the sideloading of apps through APK files on certified Android devices. Users will need to pay a fee, agree to terms and conditions, provide government identification, upload evidence of the developer's private signing key, and list all application identifiers. There are three methods for sideloading: 1. Sideloading from verified developers, requiring a verification process. 2. Sideloading from developers with limited distribution accounts, allowing sharing with up to 20 devices without ID or fees. 3. Sideloading from unverified developers, which involves enabling developer mode, confirming the user is not being scammed, restarting the phone, waiting 24 hours, and confirming identity through biometric authentication or device PIN. These changes aim to enhance security and reduce scams while still allowing some flexibility for developers.

AppWizard

November 25, 2025

Google Messages preps useful changes to saving media, sharing location, and more

Google Messages will soon allow users to open shared media files immediately after saving them. Location sharing will be updated to clarify the distinction between one-time and ongoing sharing options. The Gemini feature will gain visibility with a larger floating action button to encourage user interaction.

Winsage

September 23, 2025

Microsoft launches Windows AI Labs for testing experimental AI features – The Times of India

Microsoft has launched Windows AI Labs, a pilot program that provides select users with early access to experimental AI features in Windows applications, starting with Microsoft Paint. The program aims to gather rapid feedback on feature usability and market fit. Participants will receive a notification in Paint to join the beta testing program, although the backend system is not fully operational yet. Users will be informed that the features are in preview stages and may not meet usual quality standards. The initiative aligns with Microsoft's strategy to enhance Paint and other Windows applications with AI functionalities.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

You Can No Longer Turn Off App Updates in Microsoft’s Store

The Microsoft Store has changed its app update policy, limiting users to delaying individual app updates for a maximum of five weeks, down from the previous option to pause updates indefinitely. Users can manage these settings in the App updates section of Settings, where they will receive notifications about the potential risks of missing critical updates. This change is part of a broader trend in Microsoft's update policies, which previously allowed indefinite pauses for operating system updates but now enforces a 35-day limit. The motivation behind these changes is primarily focused on enhancing security by encouraging timely installation of updates. The new policy applies only to apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store, and users seeking indefinite delays may need to consider alternative sources, albeit with the risk of missing important security updates.

Winsage

August 13, 2025

Microsoft Is Testing Another Awful Campaign To Get Chrome Users To Move To Edge

Microsoft has introduced a feature in the Canary build of Edge that prompts users to pin the browser to their Windows taskbar when extensive usage of Google Chrome is detected. This feature is currently experimental and aims to increase Edge's visibility among Chrome users. It includes internal flags that activate notifications for users whose Chrome usage exceeds 90%. The specifics of how Microsoft tracks this data are unclear, raising concerns about user privacy.

Winsage

August 5, 2025

Still stuck on Windows 10? Microsoft reveals the reasons why you can’t upgrade to Windows 11, and how to fix them

Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 has been challenging for many users due to Microsoft's strict requirements, including the necessity of a TPM 2.0 chip and other high system specifications. Microsoft has introduced a pop-up notification and a support article to assist users with the upgrade process. Steps for upgrading include checking for updates in Settings, using laptop companion applications for BIOS updates, and searching for driver updates from manufacturers' websites. It is technically possible to install Windows 11 on systems that do not meet the official requirements, but users are advised to proceed with caution due to potential compatibility issues. Microsoft has acknowledged the lack of clear guidance regarding end-of-life notifications and is now providing support initiatives to help users transition to Windows 11.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

Xbox Launches Retro Classics Collection With 50+ Activision Titles; PC App Adds Game Assist, GeForce Now Support

Xbox and Antstream Arcade have launched Retro Classics, a collection of over 50 Activision titles from the ’80s and ’90s, available to Xbox Game Pass members worldwide. Notable games in the collection include Commando, Grand Prix, Kaboom!, Mech Warrior 2: 31st Century Combat, and Pitfall!, accessible on consoles, PCs, and cloud gaming devices. The collection features modern enhancements like cloud saves, achievement support, and gameplay pause/resume options, with plans to expand to over 100 titles from Activision and Blizzard in the future. Additionally, Xbox has introduced updates for PC gaming, including a revamped Game Bar with Quick Settings, an upcoming Microsoft Edge Game Assist for in-game browsing, and GeForce Now streaming integration for the Xbox app. The Xbox Rewards program has also been updated, allowing players to redeem points for customizable gift cards for various purchases.

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

Google tweaks the Pixel Launcher in Android 16 QPR1 to leave more space for your apps

Google has released the first beta build of Android 16 QPR 1 for Pixel devices, introducing Material 3 Expressive design changes. The At a Glance widget has been resized, allowing for an additional row on the home screen for app icons and widgets. Users receive a notification about the new layout upon installation. The lock screen has also seen a similar reduction in the widget size to support new lock screen widget features.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google just gave Android phones new features to thwart scammers

Google is piloting a feature to enhance security for banking app access during screen-sharing sessions, currently being tested with UK banking applications like Monzo, NatWest, and Revolut. When a user shares their screen while accessing their banking app, a pop-up notification will alert them to a "likely scam," reminding them to be cautious.