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3 Free Windows File Managers That Beat File Explorer
Winsage
January 7, 2026

3 Free Windows File Managers That Beat File Explorer

Recent evaluations of three free alternative file managers—OneCommander, Files, and FileVoyager—show that they outperform Windows File Explorer in efficiency and usability, particularly for tasks like bulk renaming and data transfer. While File Explorer has improved with features like tabs and cloud integration, it still falls short for power tasks, requiring excessive clicks and context switching. OneCommander offers a familiar interface with dual-pane layouts, tabs, and interactive navigation, excelling in seamless navigation and file operations. It maintained stable connections during large data transfers. Files is a modern, open-source option with strong cloud support and effective media handling, benefiting from community-driven updates. FileVoyager provides extensive control with dual panes and customization options, appealing to power users who prefer keyboard-driven control. All three alternatives demonstrate improved interaction efficiency and stability during complex tasks compared to File Explorer, making them viable replacements for users managing extensive media libraries or engaging in heavy bulk processes.
10 free Windows apps that improved my productivity (and I'd easily pay money for)
Winsage
December 25, 2025

10 free Windows apps that improved my productivity (and I’d easily pay money for)

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users. Notable applications for Windows include: 1. LibreOffice: A free office suite with tools similar to MS Office, offering a modern or classic interface and local data privacy. 2. Flow Launcher: A rapid file search and app launcher that is customizable and visually appealing, available for free. 3. Duplicati: A backup solution that allows data backup to various destinations, including cloud services, with features like scheduling and remote management, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, installable on Windows at no cost. 5. Franz: An application that consolidates multiple messaging services into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: A customizable top bar for Windows that displays system information and provides quick access to controls, enhancing desktop aesthetics and functionality. 7. File Converter: A tool for converting and compressing files directly from the Windows file manager, free to use. 8. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with essential features, free to use with a premium option for advanced features. 9. AutoHotKey: A tool for automating tasks through scripting, available for free installation. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI solution with a user-friendly interface, free to install and use on Windows.
Microsoft bets on AI to rewrite Windows after code it wrote broke the OS
Winsage
December 23, 2025

Microsoft bets on AI to rewrite Windows after code it wrote broke the OS

Microsoft plans to eliminate all C and C++ code from its products by 2030, as announced by Galen Hunt on November 25, 2025. This decision follows significant malfunctions in Windows 11 that began in July 2025, affecting core components like the Start Menu and Taskbar. The company aims to achieve "1 engineer, 1 month, 1 million lines of code" through AI-assisted rewrites. A patch to address these issues is promised for December 2025. The initiative is part of Microsoft's Future of Scalable Software Engineering group, with a focus on leveraging AI to manage and modify code at scale. A Principal Software Engineer position has been opened, emphasizing expertise in Rust. Microsoft is investing heavily in AI infrastructure, with plans to allocate billions for datacenter construction in 2025.
Microsoft’s AI Push in Windows Raises Privacy and Trust Concerns
Winsage
December 8, 2025

Microsoft’s AI Push in Windows Raises Privacy and Trust Concerns

Microsoft has integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into various components of its ecosystem, including the Windows operating system and productivity applications like Office and Teams. This integration has raised privacy concerns, particularly regarding features like Recall, which captures user activities. Microsoft postponed the rollout of Recall due to backlash over potential security risks. AI-driven advertisements and suggestions have also blurred the line between helpful tools and intrusive marketing, leading to debates about data ownership and ethical implications. Critics argue that Microsoft’s AI efforts do not align with user expectations and amplify privacy risks, especially with data collection practices in Bing and Edge browsers prompting regulatory scrutiny. Despite significant investments in AI, there are challenges in monetizing these advancements, as indicated by adjustments to sales growth targets. Microsoft has faced internal concerns about overbuilding infrastructure and the financial viability of scaling AI resources. While developers find promise in AI tools like Visual Studio and GitHub Copilot, which enhance workflows, there are associated risks such as security vulnerabilities. Microsoft acknowledges these dangers and advises caution among insiders testing new features. The company’s philosophical stance on AI emphasizes ethical development aligned with human values, although critics express concerns about the potential risks of rapid deployment without adequate safeguards. For customers, Microsoft’s focus on AI has led to frustrations due to bugs introduced by AI experiments and the unreliability of AI agents in enterprise settings. The company’s partnership with OpenAI aims for AI dominance, but questions remain about the technology's appeal to the masses. Microsoft must balance innovation with user-centric design while addressing privacy, security, and ethical concerns to maintain its leadership position in the AI landscape.
Windows 10's End Forces UK SMEs to Rethink Technology
Winsage
November 25, 2025

Windows 10’s End Forces UK SMEs to Rethink Technology

The end of Windows 10 support in October has prompted UK small businesses to reconsider their technology and security measures. Brian Horsburgh from Dell highlights the urgency for firms to upgrade to Windows 11 and integrate AI into their operations. Statistics show that 43% of businesses experienced a cyber breach last year, with 46% of IT decision-makers citing high-profile incidents as reasons to refresh their PC fleets. Despite budget concerns, Dell is addressing hesitations by showcasing the benefits of AI technology, such as improved productivity and security. AI PCs with Neural Processing Units (NPUs) enhance data security and streamline operations, allowing for tasks like automatic meeting note summarization. Dell offers flexible financing options to ease the financial burden of upgrading. The company promotes a phased approach to digital transformation, encouraging businesses to automate repetitive tasks and partner with technology providers for expert guidance. By leveraging AI, small businesses can improve customer experiences and make data-driven decisions, positioning themselves competitively in the market.
Microsoft Teams Launches Pop-Out Windows for Chats and Channels
Winsage
October 6, 2025

Microsoft Teams Launches Pop-Out Windows for Chats and Channels

Microsoft is set to introduce pop-out windows for chats and channels in Teams, allowing users to detach conversations into separate windows. This feature will enable users to right-click on a chat or channel to create an independent window, facilitating multitasking without the need for constant tab switching. The rollout will begin with desktop users later this month, followed by web and mobile platforms. This enhancement aims to improve user satisfaction and productivity, potentially reducing cognitive load by up to 20%. The implementation will require updates to security protocols in regulated sectors but presents minimal overhead for IT departments. The addition of pop-out windows is expected to provide Teams with a competitive edge, particularly in creative fields, and aligns with the growing demand for flexible interfaces in remote collaboration.
3 reasons a Dev Drive might be the perfect addition to your Windows install
Winsage
September 18, 2025

3 reasons a Dev Drive might be the perfect addition to your Windows install

Windows 11 introduces Dev Drives, a specialized storage volume for developers that utilizes the ReFS file system and offers optimizations for performance. Dev Drives can improve performance by up to 41% in development tasks, such as cloning the NodeJS repository, and provide a 22% enhancement in build times for projects like OrchardCore with DotNet. They are compatible with Microsoft Defender in "performance mode," which reduces scanning frequency to enhance read and write speeds. Microsoft recommends using Dev Drives solely for source code repositories, project files, package caches, and build outputs, avoiding typical downloaded files or installed applications to mitigate security risks. Developers can create Dev Drives on a physical partition for better performance or on a virtual hard drive (VHD) for flexibility and portability, although transferring them to different PCs is not advised. While Dev Drives offer speed advantages, they should not be repurposed for general use, as this could expose users to security risks.
Python Dev Survey: PostgreSQL, AI Agents, Rust Drive Trends
Tech Optimizer
August 25, 2025

Python Dev Survey: PostgreSQL, AI Agents, Rust Drive Trends

- PostgreSQL is the preferred database for Python projects, with 45% of surveyed developers choosing it, up from 38% the previous year. - MySQL usage has declined to 30% among developers. - Over 80% of developers regularly use AI coding tools like GitHub Copilot and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. - 65% of AI tool users report productivity gains of at least 20%. - Concerns exist regarding over-reliance on AI tools, particularly in generating nuanced logic. - Rust's usage for Python package development has surged by 22% year-over-year. - Rust is favored for its memory safety and performance in creating secure extensions. - 86.7% of Stack Overflow users expressed a desire to continue using Rust. - Projections suggest AI agents could manage up to 40% of routine coding tasks by 2026. - Rust's integration is expected to reduce bugs in critical Python packages by 30%.
Benchmark Reports Identify EDB Postgres® AI as the Sovereign Platform for Generative and Agentic AI
Tech Optimizer
July 30, 2025

Benchmark Reports Identify EDB Postgres® AI as the Sovereign Platform for Generative and Agentic AI

Recent benchmark studies by Everest Group and McKnight Consulting Group reveal that EDB Postgres AI significantly reduces development complexity by 67% and total cost of ownership (TCO) by 50% compared to traditional DIY solutions. Over 90% of major global enterprises plan to establish their own sovereign AI and data platforms within three years, yet only 13% are currently implementing agentic and generative AI. These early adopters achieve twice the volume of AI output and fivefold economic benefits by focusing on sovereignty in their AI infrastructures. EDB Postgres AI is noted for eliminating complexity, offering a fully integrated platform for modern AI workloads, and enabling faster development and lower costs. It is reported to be three times faster to production, 51% lower in total cost, and simpler to manage at scale. Key highlights from the benchmark study include: - 67% lower development effort and 38% lower maintenance complexity compared to DIY cloud approaches. - 40%-43% fewer build steps required in typical in-house builds. - More than 90% fewer steps in the development stage, leading to significant productivity gains. - Over 55% lower total complexity compared to in-house data and AI management solutions. - EDB Postgres AI enables delivery of AI-enabled applications three times faster than DIY cloud solutions, reducing time to production from 28 weeks to 9. - 65% faster time-to-value, compressing a year-long build into weeks. - Up to 51% lower TCO over three years due to reduced infrastructure, licensing, and personnel costs.
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