pre-installed applications Archives

Winsage

April 30, 2026

Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users regarding its user experience and strict hardware requirements. Many users feel the OS is overloaded with features, including unwanted AI elements and pre-installed applications. In response, a customization community has emerged, with developers like Raditya Aryaputra proposing alternative designs, such as a "Refined" version of Windows 11 that focuses on a streamlined experience. Aryaputra's concept includes a compact Start menu without ads, a revamped Windows Search, and a simplified Widget panel. Microsoft is reportedly planning to reintroduce the movable and resizable project feature in its Windows K2 initiative, set for 2026. User options are limited as mainstream support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025, although an Extended Security Updates program is available temporarily. Microsoft has also redesigned the Start menu based on user feedback and is actively seeking input through Windows Insider meetups. Additionally, Microsoft has streamlined its AI strategy within Windows 11, removing Copilot from certain applications. A status tracker is available for users to follow changes related to the Windows K2 initiative.

Winsage

April 30, 2026

Microsoft should steal concepts from this Windows redesign project: Envisioning an ad‑free Windows 11 without AI clutter

Windows 11 has faced criticism from users regarding its hardware requirements and perceived overload of features. A customization community has emerged, with developers like Raditya Aryaputra proposing a "Refined" version of Windows 11 that focuses on essential features and a cleaner interface. This concept includes a compact Start menu without ads or forced recommendations and a more intuitive Windows Search. Microsoft is planning enhancements for Windows 11, internally referred to as Windows K2, set for a 2026 release, which may incorporate user feedback and ideas from Aryaputra's project. Microsoft has also redesigned the Start menu but received feedback that it is too large and lacks customization. The company is reintroducing Windows Insider meetups for user feedback and reassessing its AI strategy within Windows 11. Mainstream support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, pushing users towards Windows 11.

Winsage

April 19, 2026

Zorin OS 18.1 adds guided migrations, stronger app compatibility and wider hardware support, making switching from Windows far more practical for millions [clone]

Zorin OS has released version 18.1, enhancing hardware compatibility and introducing fingerprint reader support for older devices. The update recommends native Linux alternatives when detecting Windows applications, making it easier for users transitioning from Windows. Since the end of support for Windows 10, Zorin OS has gained popularity, reaching 3.3 million downloads. The update supports over 240 Windows applications, suggesting compatible Linux versions, and includes improvements to desktop features and pre-installed applications. Zorin Lite has also been updated to version 17.3 with fingerprint reader support and a redesigned File Manager. Meanwhile, Windows 11 is facing challenges in adoption due to hardware requirements and design issues, prompting discussions about the potential need for Windows 12. Alternative operating systems like Zorin OS are becoming more appealing to users dissatisfied with Windows.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

I freed up over 1GB on my Galaxy S26 by deleting these 7 useless apps

Samsung's Galaxy S26 series features One UI 8.5, praised for customization and stability but criticized for pre-installed bloatware. Key apps include: - Samsung Shop: Uninstalling frees up 154MB. - Samsung TV Plus: Uninstalling frees up 67MB. - Global Goals: Uninstalling frees up 121MB. - Samsung Kids: Uninstalling frees up 35MB. - M365 Copilot: Uninstalling frees up 334MB. - OneDrive: Uninstalling frees up 169MB. - LinkedIn: Uninstalling frees up 159MB. Removing these seven apps can reclaim over 1GB of storage, and most are not essential for device functionality.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

The Microsoft ecosystem glow-up: How Teams, OneDrive, and Windows 11 now work together without headaches

Windows 11 integrates seamlessly with OneDrive and Microsoft Teams, enhancing productivity and workflow efficiency. It comes pre-installed with these applications, allowing users to access notifications and features easily. Meeting recordings can be saved directly in OneDrive, and the search functionality allows users to find documents and messages across platforms effortlessly. The Fluent Design language provides a cohesive user experience, facilitating smooth transitions between tasks. Additionally, the Copilot AI feature assists users by summarizing missed communications, crafting meeting agendas, and simplifying file management in both Teams and OneDrive. This integration supports a focused work environment, minimizing distractions and interruptions.

Winsage

March 5, 2026

I tested Windows 11 LTSC in 2026, and it’s the best version of Windows 11 without Copilot, AI and other bloat

Windows 11 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) is a specialized edition of Windows 11 designed for organizations that prioritize stability over the latest features. It allows users to defer feature updates for up to ten years, receiving only monthly quality updates and optional feature updates every three years. LTSC includes only Microsoft Edge as a modern app, with classic versions of Calculator, Notepad, and Paint, and lacks Copilot integration, the Microsoft Store, and Widgets. Users can operate LTSC without signing into a Microsoft account. The version was officially announced in April 2023, with Enterprise and IoT editions set to launch in late 2024. It is suitable for large organizations, industrial systems, IT departments, and IoT devices needing long-term support. General users can download a 90-day trial of LTSC, but a clean installation is required for transitioning from Windows 11 Pro or Home. The minimum system requirements include a 1 GHz processor, 4 GB RAM, and 64 GB storage. LTSC offers advantages such as no bloatware, a stable environment, and a lower storage footprint, but it does not receive new Windows features and lacks access to the Microsoft Store by default.

Winsage

January 29, 2026

Can’t upgrade to Windows 11? I found the best Linux distro to replace your Windows 10 PC

SDesk is an Arch-based Linux distribution available for free installation on an unlimited number of computers. It features a user-friendly GNOME desktop environment that resembles traditional operating systems like Windows and macOS, including a panel, menu, top bar, favorites, and desktop icons. Pre-installed applications include LibreOffice, Geary, GNOME Music, GNOME Video, Octopi, GNOME Maps, and Swirl. Users can install additional software via Octopi or Flatpak. The distribution offers a visually appealing and functional layout, with quick application launch times and a window snapping feature for enhanced productivity. However, it has some issues, such as a desktop lock-up after updates and a lack of multimedia codecs for MP3 and MP4 playback, which can be resolved by installing VLC.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

Puppy Linux vs. Linux Lite: Which distro is right for your old Windows 10 PC?

Puppy Linux is a lightweight Linux distribution with a footprint of 500 MB to 1.5 GB, capable of running entirely in RAM and allowing users to boot from a USB drive without altering their existing OS. It offers session persistence, comes pre-installed with essential applications, and supports various package managers. It is ideal for users prioritizing performance over aesthetics. Linux Lite is based on the latest Long Term Support release of Ubuntu and features a desktop layout similar to Windows, making it user-friendly for newcomers. It includes pre-installed applications like Chrome, LibreOffice, VLC, and GIMP, and utilizes the Xfce desktop environment for customization. It is optimized for speed and resource efficiency and facilitates a smooth transition from Windows. The choice between Puppy Linux and Linux Lite depends on individual needs: Puppy Linux is suited for those wanting a lightweight, portable solution, while Linux Lite is better for users seeking a traditional OS experience.

Winsage

December 2, 2025

5 reasons your PC can feel slow after a Windows update, and how to fix each one

Large Windows updates involve reconfiguring system files, installing components, updating drivers, and initiating post-update tasks, which can temporarily slow down performance, especially on older hardware. The Windows Module Installer (TiWorker.exe) finalizes updates and may trigger cleanup and maintenance tasks, consuming CPU and disk resources. Outdated or incompatible drivers can hinder performance, leading to sluggish boot times and reduced gaming frame rates. The indexing feature may intensify after a major update, increasing CPU and disk usage. Major updates can reset user-defined settings and reintroduce background processes and applications, causing additional resource consumption. Cumulative updates may lead to performance issues due to memory leaks or driver conflicts, and Microsoft provides a "Windows release health" dashboard for tracking known issues. Slowdowns after updates are typically temporary, lasting from a few minutes to several hours, but persistent issues may require further investigation.

AppWizard

November 12, 2025

Android apps you don’t need

Users of Android devices often encounter pre-installed applications that cannot be easily deleted, consuming storage space and resources. However, these apps can be disabled to prevent them from running in the background or updating, which helps free up storage. To disable an app, users should go to Settings, select Apps, locate the desired app, and choose Disable. This process helps improve device efficiency and organization.