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Google Docs Android App Integrates Gemini AI ‘Help Me Write’ Feature
AppWizard
October 10, 2025

Google Docs Android App Integrates Gemini AI ‘Help Me Write’ Feature

Google is enhancing its Google Docs app on Android with the introduction of the "Help me write" feature, powered by the Gemini AI model. This feature, which has been available on web versions of Docs and Gmail, is currently in development and includes a new toolbar icon for submitting writing requests. Although not fully operational yet, it aims to improve mobile productivity by allowing users to generate and refine text. The feature may also integrate with existing Gemini capabilities like summarization and rephrasing. The rollout faces challenges, including privacy concerns related to data processing and the need for effective language support, with plans for Gemini to be available in over 20 languages by June 2025. Access may require a Workspace or AI premium plan, and a full launch is anticipated by late 2025. This advancement could significantly impact mobile workflows in industries such as journalism and marketing, enhancing collaboration and document creation.
These are the 7 open-source apps I recommend to everyone starting with self-hosting
AppWizard
October 2, 2025

These are the 7 open-source apps I recommend to everyone starting with self-hosting

Self-hosting is gaining popularity, prompting individuals to consider what services they want to self-host. Key applications for beginners include: - Portainer: A web dashboard that simplifies Docker management, allowing users to pull images, set up containers, and manage networks through a graphical interface. - Nextcloud: A self-hosted file synchronization solution that offers a productivity suite with features like calendars and collaborative document editing. - Home Assistant: A platform that consolidates smart devices for automation and control, enabling users to create customized smart home experiences. - Jellyfin: An open-source media server that allows users to organize and stream their own media libraries without subscription fees or ads. - Navidrome: A music server for streaming personal music collections with features like playlists and album art support. - Paperless-NGX: An application that digitizes and organizes documents using optical character recognition for easy management of paperwork. - Immich: A photo management tool that helps users organize and search their photo libraries based on metadata. - Dockpeek: A dashboard that lists all running Docker containers, simplifying access to services and enhancing user experience. A gradual approach is recommended for newcomers, focusing on specific needs to avoid decision fatigue while exploring various self-hosting options.
Microsoft to Force-Install Copilot on Most Windows PCs This October
Winsage
September 16, 2025

Microsoft to Force-Install Copilot on Most Windows PCs This October

Microsoft is rolling out the Microsoft 365 Copilot app globally, starting in October 2025 and concluding by mid-November, with the exception of the European Economic Area. The app will be automatically installed on Windows PCs with Microsoft 365 desktop applications and integrated into the Start menu, enabled by default. IT administrators can disable the automatic installation through the Microsoft 365 Apps admin center, but personal users may find it difficult to opt out. Users can remove the app after installation, modify its startup behavior, or avoid Microsoft 365 services, each with trade-offs.
This city is dumping Microsoft Office and Windows for OnlyOffice and Linux
Winsage
June 27, 2025

This city is dumping Microsoft Office and Windows for OnlyOffice and Linux

Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is transitioning from Microsoft’s Windows and Office suite to open-source alternatives such as Linux, OnlyOffice, NextCloud, and PostgreSQL. This move is part of a broader strategy among European governments to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on American technology firms due to concerns over data security and autonomy. The city is developing a collaborative suite called Territoire Numérique Ouvert in partnership with regional digital organizations, which will be hosted in local data centers. The migration process is already underway, with municipal workstations moving from Windows to Linux and Microsoft Office being replaced by OnlyOffice. Lyon expects direct cost savings from this migration, including extending the lifespan of municipal hardware and reducing electronic waste. Over 50% of public contracts related to this project have been awarded to firms within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, all to French companies. Training for approximately 10,000 civil servants began in June 2025 as part of the transition to Linux.
LibreOffice backs campaign to help users move from Windows 10 to Linux – and ditch Office, too
Winsage
June 14, 2025

LibreOffice backs campaign to help users move from Windows 10 to Linux – and ditch Office, too

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11 or exploring alternatives like Linux. The End of 10 initiative aims to guide users toward affordable options, particularly Linux and LibreOffice, as many existing Windows 10 devices may not meet Windows 11's hardware requirements. The transition to Windows 11 may also lead to increased costs and reduced user autonomy due to its cloud-centric design. LibreOffice, an open-source productivity suite, offers essential tools without licensing fees and promotes open standards, though compatibility with Microsoft Office documents may vary. The Document Foundation suggests three steps for transitioning to Linux and LibreOffice: testing the new platform, assessing software compatibility, and providing training for users.
Why pay recurring fees for 365 when Microsoft Office is only $50?
Winsage
June 4, 2025

Why pay recurring fees for 365 when Microsoft Office is only $50?

Microsoft Office 2021 is currently available for a one-time purchase of .97, reduced from its regular price of 9.99. This version includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams (free version), OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Users receive instant download codes for immediate installation on a single computer, ensuring uninterrupted access without recurring fees. Microsoft 365, in contrast, operates on a subscription model that has recently seen a price increase, making Office 2021 a more economical choice for individuals and businesses. The offer is time-limited, and prices on StackSocial may change.
Readers name Windows 2000 Server peak Microsoft
Winsage
April 11, 2025

Readers name Windows 2000 Server peak Microsoft

Microsoft's 50th anniversary has sparked nostalgia among its community, particularly for Windows Server 2000, which is viewed as a high point in the company's history. Readers fondly remember Windows NT and acknowledge Windows 2000 Server for its robust capabilities. While Windows XP and Windows 7 received positive feedback, Windows 8 and its successors were less well-received due to their design choices. The handling of Windows Phone post-Nokia acquisition is seen as a significant misstep. Despite criticisms regarding software pricing and code quality, the Office suite remains valued. Microsoft's shift to cloud computing is noted as a strategic achievement, and the company has shown resilience in facing legal challenges. The community sentiment suggests that Microsoft's most celebrated days may be behind it, with future success dependent on the next generation of IT professionals and their views on the company's focus on artificial intelligence.
How have 50 years of Microsoft been for you?
Winsage
April 1, 2025

How have 50 years of Microsoft been for you?

Microsoft is approaching its 50th anniversary, marked by significant milestones in personal computing and enterprise solutions. Key achievements include the introduction of Windows 3.0 and 3.1, while notable missteps include Microsoft Bob, Windows 8, the underperformance of Windows Mobile and Windows Phone, and the acquisition of Nokia. Microsoft's productivity suite remains strong despite competition from Google. The company gained popularity with its dialect of BASIC and has made strategic investments in cloud technology and artificial intelligence, including the acquisitions of GitHub and LinkedIn. However, it faced challenges with Internet Explorer losing ground to Google's Chrome and the failure of the Zune to compete with the iPod. Windows Vista is also noted as a less successful product.
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