recommendations Archives

Winsage

May 10, 2025

5 features I wish Microsoft would turn off by default on Windows 11

Microsoft's Windows 10 and 11 include features that some users find cumbersome, such as OneDrive, which is integrated but not preferred by all users. OneDrive automatically backs up default system folders during setup and offers only 15GB of storage without a Microsoft 365 subscription. Users can disable OneDrive through Computer Configuration settings. The Widgets feature, particularly the News widget, can interrupt workflow and can be disabled via Settings. The Start menu includes recommendations that some users view as advertisements, which can be turned off in Settings. Windows also has several applications set to run at startup by default, which can slow down boot times; users can manage these through Settings or Task Manager. Additionally, Windows collects diagnostic data, which raises privacy concerns, but users can opt out by adjusting settings in Privacy & Security.

BetaBeacon

May 10, 2025

Try these 5 Apps and Games for Android and iOS, tried and tested!

- Delta Force is a popular multiplayer first-person shooter originally released on PC. - Battles in Delta Force take place in 24 vs. 24 with large teams on large maps. - The game has different modes, including an "Operations" mode and a co-op campaign mode. - Delta Force is free to install but contains microtransactions for cosmetic items. - Run&Grow is an app that tracks running sessions and rewards users with virtual garden decorations. - Remember - A Brain Add-On helps users remember where they stored important items by taking photos. - Command Stick is an Android app that adds a floating widget for quick access to commands. - TMNT: Shredder's Revenge is a mobile game where players beat up enemies with different characters from the Ninja Turtles universe.

AppWizard

May 10, 2025

Want to manage Amazon app notifications? These tips might help

To manage notifications in the Amazon app, go to the 'Settings' section where you can control notifications for Order Updates, Recommendations, and Promotions. You can select categories that match your preferences to reduce distractions and receive essential updates.

AppWizard

May 10, 2025

Locomoto is a train management adventure with Animal Crossing vibes and Minecraft-like crafting that’s already claimed hours of my time

In the game Locomoto, the player takes on the role of a train conductor, having commandeered a train from a goat named McGruff, with the mission of assisting a struggling town by transporting the future mayor. The gameplay includes clearing tracks, operating the train, and engaging in quests that involve transporting passengers and locating items. The game features a character customization system, allowing players to modify their character and train, and incorporates a crafting system for creating various items. Players can collect parcels and complete tasks, leading to an immersive and time-consuming experience. Locomoto is currently available on PC.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

Security update causes new problem for Windows Hello for Business authentication

Microsoft has indicated that a range of products, including their own and third-party solutions like smart card authentication products, single sign-on (SSO) systems, and identity management platforms, may be experiencing issues linked to a specific feature. This has led to an increase in support calls within certain organizations, particularly affecting machine-to-machine authentication. To mitigate disruptions from logon failures, Microsoft recommends that organizations temporarily change the registry key AllowNtAuthPolicyBypass from ‘2’ back to ‘1’, as detailed in KB5057784.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

6 changes I make immediately to make the Windows 11 experience less irritating

Upon initiating a fresh installation of Windows 11, essential adjustments can enhance the user experience and productivity. Winhance is a utility that helps implement these changes. Key modifications include: - Notifications: Users can reduce the number of notifications by navigating to Settings -> System -> Notifications and toggling off notifications from specific apps. Scheduling notifications and using the Focus feature can also help minimize distractions. - Disable Microsoft ads: To eliminate subtle promotional content, users should uncheck options in Notifications settings and disable recommendations in Settings -> Personalization -> Start. - Move the Start button: Users can reposition the Start menu to the left corner by adjusting the “Taskbar alignment” in Settings -> Personalization -> Taskbar -> Taskbar behaviors. - Adjust visual effects: To improve system responsiveness, users can disable animations and transparency effects by accessing sysdm.cpl and Settings -> Accessibility -> Visual effects. - Change the default browser: After installing a preferred browser, users can set it as the default in Settings -> Apps -> Default app, ensuring it is set for various file types. - Disable News widget: Users can turn off the news widget by going to Settings -> Personalization -> Taskbar and toggling off the Widgets option. These adjustments can be completed in about 20 minutes and help create a more productive environment in Windows 11.

Winsage

May 7, 2025

Introducing all-new Surface Copilot+ PCs: The Surface Pro, 12-inch and Surface Laptop, 13-inch

Copilot+ PCs are a new category of personal computing devices designed to enhance AI experiences and productivity. Microsoft has introduced the Surface Laptop (13-inch) and Surface Pro (12-inch) as part of this lineup, both featuring Snapdragon X Plus processors with Neural Processing Units (NPU). The Surface Laptop, available from May 20, 2025, starts at 9, is the thinnest and lightest model yet, and offers up to 23 hours of video playback. It has a full HD touchscreen, AI-enhanced camera, and a keyboard with a fingerprint reader. The Surface Pro, also powered by the Snapdragon X Plus, weighs 1.5 pounds and features a detachable keyboard and adjustable kickstand. Both devices incorporate sustainable materials, with the Surface Laptop using 100% recycled cobalt in its battery and the Surface Pro made from 82.9% recycled content. They provide access to AI tools for productivity, including features like Recall and Click to Do. Pre-orders for both devices are available, with the Surface Pro starting at 9 and the Surface Laptop at ,199.

Tech Optimizer

May 7, 2025

Opinion: Do you really need separate antivirus software? Probably not

A friend is considering purchasing antivirus software for a new Windows PC and sought advice on the best options. Major antivirus providers include Norton, McAfee, AVG, and Bitdefender, but many features overlap with Windows Defender. Most home users may not need paid antivirus software, as Microsoft and Apple provide built-in solutions. Web browsers and email providers also offer protection against online threats. Windows 11 users can monitor security through the Windows Security dashboard, while Apple users should keep their systems updated. If encountering issues from suspicious links, downloading Malwarebytes is recommended for scanning and repair. The free version is available for both Mac and Windows, but the paid version is suggested for regular use. Opinions on antivirus necessity vary, and those using computers for business may consider investing in a security suite for added peace of mind.

Winsage

May 6, 2025

Microsoft Reveals New Windows 11 Start Menu and Upcoming Copilot+ Features

Microsoft has announced upcoming features for Windows 11, including a redesigned Start Menu, enhancements to Click to Do, and improvements in Windows Search. Key features for Windows Insiders using Qualcomm-powered Copilot+ PCs include an AI Agent in Settings, new Click to Do actions for scheduling and messaging, dynamic lighting controls in Photos, a Paint sticker generator, object selection in Paint, an improved Snipping tool, and rich image descriptions in Narrator. Additional features for all Windows Insiders include a new Start Menu with a phone companion sidebar, AI actions in File Explorer, updates to Notepad, Copilot improvements, and a Microsoft Store AI Hub. Notably, Copilot+ PC experiences will not be available in all markets until later, with some features expected to arrive in the European Economic Area in 2025.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

Meta launches its new AI App for WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook , messenger users

Meta has launched the Meta AI app, powered by Llama 4, aiming to create a personalized AI experience for users globally. The app is integrated into platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Messenger, used by millions daily. It assists users with problem-solving, answering questions, and enhancing understanding of topics, and includes features like web search capabilities and conversation starters. The app also features a Discover feed for sharing and exploring AI usage, while allowing users control over their content. Accessibility is emphasized, as the app is integrated across all Meta products. Additionally, the web interface of Meta AI is receiving upgrades, including a new Discover feed and enhanced image generation capabilities for larger screens and desktop use.