refreshed user interface Archives

Winsage

August 8, 2025

Microsoft improves Windows 11 Search UI settings, confirms group policy bug in build 27919

Microsoft has released a new Windows 11 build, 27919, for Insiders in the Canary channel, featuring a refreshed user interface for the Search page within the Settings app. The update reorganizes Windows Search settings under Settings > Privacy & security, introducing dedicated “Search permissions” and “Searching Windows” pages for easier navigation. The build also resolves several bugs, including a crash in File Explorer when accessing digital signatures and issues with the Microsoft Changjie Input method and phonetic keyboards. However, known issues include potential loss of Windows Hello PIN and biometrics for users transitioning from other channels, display errors during the upgrade process, error pop-ups in the Group Policy Editor, and remote desktop functionality defaulting to the primary monitor.

AppWizard

May 22, 2025

I tested Gemini’s driving experience at Google I/O

Google is set to launch the Gemini update for Android Auto, enhancing hands-free functionality for drivers. The update will feature different experiences based on vehicle compatibility, with around 250 million cars supporting Android Auto and about 50 models equipped with Google built-in. Gemini allows for voice control independent of an Android smartphone, enabling tasks like adjusting climate settings through natural language commands. Vehicles with Google built-in will have access to the Google Play Store and integrated car manuals. Gemini will also include offline capabilities and streamline trip planning via voice commands. Most features will be available across all vehicles with Android Auto, with a rollout expected in the coming months. The pre-release version showed improved reliability over the previous Google Assistant.

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

Google Voice adds three-way calling support alongside its interface rework

Google has introduced a new update for its Voice app that enables three-way calling for Workspace subscription holders, allowing users to create conference calls by adding another participant. The update includes a refreshed user interface with more accessible key tools for managing calls, such as prominently displayed "Add" and "Merge" options. This feature is available to Google Workspace customers on Voice Starter, Voice Standard, and Voice Premier plans, as well as SIP Link Standard and SIP Link Premier customers. The rollout began on May 1 and is expected to reach all Google Voice users within approximately 15 days. Earlier in February, Google Voice added a "call delegation" feature, allowing users to transfer calls to another person with options for immediate transfer or confirmation before proceeding, including the ability to transfer calls from personal accounts to paid enterprise accounts.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

For the Price of a Good Burger, You Can Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro and Unlock Microsoft’s Copilot AI

Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, a 92% discount from the standard price of approximately 9. It features a refreshed user interface for multitasking, enhanced security, a Universal Search tool on the taskbar, the ability to create multiple custom desktops, and integration with OneDrive for file synchronization across devices. It also includes productivity shortcuts like Win + V for clipboard history and the Copilot AI tool to streamline tasks.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

Still using Windows 95? This app will no longer work for you

AIDA64 has released version 7.60, which no longer supports Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows ME. The update maintains compatibility with Windows 2000 and later versions. New features include support for AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards, new dark themes, support for Asus ROG Ryujin III Series LCDs, integration of Turing LCD support, enhanced compatibility with B840, B850, and B860 chipset motherboards, support for Corsair HX1200i 2023 PSU sensors, improvements in kernel driver security, better support for Intel Arrow Lake-H and Arrow Lake-U processors, and detailed GPU information for Nvidia GeForce RTX 5000 Series.

Winsage

February 15, 2025

Microsoft adding new PowerToys utlity for Windows package manager (WinGet)

Microsoft's PowerToys suite, designed for power users and Windows enthusiasts, includes features like Advanced Paste, FancyZones, File Explorer add-ons, Registry Preview, and a keyboard and mouse manager. PowerToys Run received a significant update in December, introducing version 2 with a refreshed UI and improved UX. Kayla Cinnamon announced a new utility for installing WinGet packages, which is being developed in collaboration with the Windows Terminal team. Clint Rutkas confirmed that this new feature represents the "next gen version" of PowerToys Run. WinGet is a command line tool for the Windows Package Manager service, automating software installation, upgrading, and configuration.

Winsage

October 18, 2024

9 must-know details about Windows 11’s big 2024 update

Windows 11 is set to receive a significant update in 2024, known as version 24H2, which will enhance user experience and tighten security protocols. The AI feature "Recall," designed for AI-based searches, has been shelved due to data protection concerns. The update will not allow installations on older hardware that does not meet new requirements, including Arm processors that must run version 8.1 or later. The AI assistant Copilot will be available as a standalone app without system modification capabilities. The user interface will be refreshed, featuring a simplified date display, an updated quick access menu, and the ability to pin applications to the taskbar via drag-and-drop. A new sidebar will improve smartphone connectivity. Users will be able to create ZIP and TAR archives from the context menu, and the Teams client will support private chats. The update will introduce the "sudo" command for administrative tasks, support the Wi-Fi 7 standard, and enhance printer compatibility with Windows Protected Print Mode.

Winsage

August 12, 2024

Microsoft is retiring 2017’s Paint 3D and keeping the original MS Paint from 1985

In 2017, Microsoft launched Paint 3D as part of a Windows 10 update, enhancing the original Microsoft Paint from 1985 with features for 2D and 3D image editing and support for layers. Effective November 4, 2024, Paint 3D will no longer be available for download or receive updates, although existing users can still access it. Paint 3D included features for importing and manipulating 3D shapes, while MS Paint has remained simple with minor updates, including Microsoft Copilot+ AI features.

Winsage

August 2, 2024

Microsoft quietly installing KB5001716 Windows 11/10 update for the good of your PC

Microsoft has released non-security Windows preview updates for Windows 11 (KB5040527) and Windows 10 (KB5040525). An additional update for Windows 11 version 24H2, known as KB5040529, was rolled out for Copilot+ PCs. The latest update, KB5001716, enhances the Windows Update service components, ensuring automatic downloads and installations of newer feature updates when the current operating system version nears its end of servicing status. This update affects Windows 11 version 21H2 and various versions of Windows 10 (22H2, 21H2, 21H1, 20H2, 2004). Upon installation, it may prompt downloads of feature updates for devices nearing end of support, and users may receive notifications about issues affecting Windows Update. There are currently no known issues with this update.

Winsage

July 16, 2024

Will There Be Windows 12? What to Expect

- Windows 12 is expected to be a free upgrade for Windows 11 users. - The hardware requirements for Windows 12 are expected to be similar to those for Windows 11. - Windows 12 may include a new user interface, redesigned lock screen and notification center, built-in messaging client, AI integration, Android app support, animated wallpapers, and merging Teams and Skype. - Windows 12 is expected to be released around September or October 2025.