productivity tool Archives

AppWizard

January 8, 2026

Just got an Android smartwatch? Install these 3 apps immediately

Upon unboxing an Android smartwatch, users are presented with a variety of applications on the Google Play Store. It is recommended to start with three essential apps: an organization app for managing schedules and tasks, a fitness tracking app for monitoring physical activity and health metrics, and a music control app for managing music. These foundational apps enhance the smartwatch experience and allow users to explore more specialized options later.

BetaBeacon

January 1, 2026

Why I think a desktop-class Chrome browser for Android would change the whole game

The Chrome browser is considered the center of all activities on Chromebooks, even though ChromeOS has evolved beyond just being a browser. The lack of a desktop-class version of Chrome for Android hinders the usability of Android Desktop and DeX for productivity. Google is expected to release a desktop-class version of Chrome for Android in 2026, which could potentially make phones powerful desktop replacements.

Winsage

November 11, 2025

The creator of Task Manager explains why people hate Windows 11, and how Microsoft can fix it

Dave Plummer critiques Windows 11, stating it has become more of an advertisement platform than a productivity tool. He suggests implementing a "Windows Expert" mode to disable unsolicited app recommendations, unify Settings and Control Panel, and set Windows Terminal as the default console with Winget for package management. Plummer emphasizes the need for improved privacy features, transparency in telemetry data, and stopping forced updates without user consent. He believes the operating system's current state undermines user trust, as it often promotes Microsoft's products rather than serving users effectively.

Winsage

October 30, 2025

I don’t use the Windows Start menu anymore, because I have Raycast instead

Complaints about the Windows 11 Start menu are common, with users finding it sluggish and unreliable. Raycast, currently in beta for Windows, is an application launcher that allows for faster access to applications and system settings through customizable keyboard shortcuts. It includes built-in extensions like an emoji picker and clipboard history, enhancing its functionality. Raycast can be activated using various keyboard shortcuts, including the Windows key, making it easy to transition from the Start menu. It is effective across all operating systems, with a similar open-source alternative called Vicinae available for Linux users. Raycast has proven to enhance productivity significantly.

AppWizard

September 29, 2025

Google’s brand-new Windows app has already hit a snag

Google has introduced an experimental search application for Windows users that allows them to search through computer files, installed applications, Google Drive documents, and the web. The search bar can be activated with the keystroke Alt + Space. Users who have installed the app are advised to uninstall and then reinstall it to continue receiving updates for optimal performance. Instructions provided by Google include uninstalling the current app and redownloading it from Google Labs. The app is still in its experimental phase, and users may encounter bugs. It is available in Search Labs for new users.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

Microsoft’s new update makes your taskbar a productivity hub

Microsoft is introducing a suite of "lightweight" companion taskbar apps for work computer users, which will launch automatically upon starting the computer. The apps include: 1. People app: A contact management tool that syncs contacts from various sources and allows quick communication via Teams calls. 2. File Search companion: A tool for locating Microsoft 365 files across OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams, and Outlook, with filtering options and file previews. 3. Calendar app: A productivity tool for creating events, setting reminders, and managing schedules, which syncs across devices and integrates with other applications. The rollout of these features will begin this month for all Microsoft 365 Business users, aiming to enhance workflow efficiency and accessibility.

AppWizard

July 28, 2025

5 apps you should use instead of Obsidian

Obsidian is a personal knowledge management (PKM) system that can handle various tasks but may have a steep learning curve and an uninviting aesthetic for some users. Notion is a cloud-based alternative that allows for personalized knowledge bases and workflow optimization, appealing to those who prioritize convenience. Google Keep offers a simple, cloud-based note-taking experience that is easy to navigate but has limitations in text formatting and organization. Evernote provides enhanced note management and text formatting features, along with a web clipper, but has restrictions on its free plan. Anytype adopts an offline-first approach, prioritizing privacy and combining features of both Notion and Obsidian. Capacities enhances productivity and can complement other tools, catering to various workflows.

AppWizard

July 27, 2025

I’ve tried dozens of to-do apps — these 6 clicked with me, but one’s my favorite

Megan Ellis explores various to-do list applications in her search for the ideal productivity tool. - TickTick: A feature-rich app with flexible reminder settings, Kanban view, list sharing, and a balance of robust features for power users and accessibility in its free version. - Todoist: Offers structured task management with morning overviews, evening recaps, project organization, labels, and natural language input, but many advanced features require payment. - Microsoft To Do: Integrates with Microsoft 365 and Outlook, allows group creation and nested lists, and features customizable wallpapers, all for free. - Google Tasks: A simple task manager with basic functionalities, available on Android devices, but lacks location-based reminders and sharing features. - Notion: A versatile platform for creating personalized to-do lists, appealing to those who want an all-in-one organizational tool, though it may have a learning curve. - Post-it: A digital app that allows users to create virtual notes for reminders and tasks, useful for non-urgent tasks.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

9 best apps for the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s large display

Foldable smartphones have evolved into functional devices, with Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7 featuring a book-style design and a large display. Notion is a productivity tool that benefits from the Fold 7's screen space for note-taking and managing tasks. The Kindle app enhances the reading experience by utilizing the larger display for e-books. Samsung's Good Lock app allows for device customization, including features tailored for foldable devices. The Dolphin Emulator takes advantage of the Fold 7's Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset for gaming, allowing users to play GameCube and Wii titles. Super Display enables the Fold 7 to function as a portable monitor for Windows PCs. Canva's photo editor benefits from the larger display for designing graphics. Octopi Launcher allows users to customize app layouts for different screen orientations. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the thinnest and lightest of Samsung's book-style foldables, enhancing the mobile app experience.

Winsage

June 15, 2025

I’ve used a lot of Windows launchers, but this is the best one by far

Flow Launcher is a desktop productivity tool for Windows 11 that excels in speed, opening instantly with a keyboard shortcut and providing audio cues. It features an extensive library of plugins, allowing users to enhance functionality with ease, including pre-installed plugins for searching bookmarks, managing files, and executing system commands. The plugin store offers a variety of extensions, catering to diverse needs, including tools for OneNote, Spotify, and gaming. Flow Launcher is highly customizable, enabling users to adjust extension functions, search result priorities, and activation shortcuts. It also allows the creation of custom hotkeys for quick access to frequently used tools, such as an enhanced clipboard history.