replacement Archives

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Microsoft trims File Explorer’s Recent, Favorites, and Recommended content in Europe

Microsoft has released the Windows 11 24H2 Preview Build 26120.3281 in the Dev and Beta channels. This update removes several features from File Explorer, including the Recent, Favorites, and Recommended content sections, as well as the Details Pane, to comply with the EU's GDPR. The change primarily affects Entra ID users in the European Economic Area. The update also addresses the Location API, previously used by Cortana, which is now deemed unnecessary following Cortana's discontinuation. Microsoft has not clarified whether location data will still be stored online. These updates are currently in Preview and may not be included in the final version. Past updates have caused issues, such as disrupting sound output and making File Explorer unusable.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Upgrade Your Windows 11 Experience with These 10 Free Alternatives to thew Standard Apps

- ImageGlass is a fast and versatile replacement for the default Photos app, supporting various image formats and basic editing tools. - Files App is a modern alternative to File Explorer with features like split tabs, compact views, and smooth navigation. - LibreOffice is a free, open-source office suite that provides alternatives to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. - GIMP is a powerful, open-source image editing tool with advanced features like layer management and color correction. - ShareX, Lightshot, PicPick, and SnipPaste are enhanced screenshot tools offering features like screen recording, annotations, and workflow automation. - ScreenBox is a VLC-based media player with robust format support and a sleek design. - Nora is a modern audio player with dynamic controls, playlist management, and an equalizer. - PDF Gear offers advanced PDF features like annotation, editing, and built-in OCR. - Zen Browser is a privacy-focused web browser built on Firefox, emphasizing security and customization. - Fluid Cast is a dedicated podcast app with offline downloads and progress tracking. - Qalculate! is a versatile calculator supporting basic and complex calculations, while SpeedCrunch is a keyboard-focused calculator for quick calculations.

Winsage

February 11, 2025

Windows 10 end of life: How to prepare for the October deadline

Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025, after which it will no longer receive security updates. As of December 2024, over 62% of devices globally were still using Windows 10. Many organizations are delaying the upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware compatibility issues, budget constraints, and the time required for employee training. Remaining on Windows 10 poses risks such as increased vulnerability to cyber threats and operational inefficiencies. Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates program for organizations needing more time, but experts recommend investing in upgrading to Windows 11 for long-term benefits. The transition may require replacing incompatible devices and careful planning to minimize disruptions.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

The PlayStation Network has been taken completely offline across all platforms for more than half a day, preventing online gaming, store purchases, game updates, and more

Access to the PlayStation Network (PSN) is being restored for some PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 users after an outage that began on February 8, 2025, at 1 AM CET. The outage affected PSN logins and services across all platforms, including PS5, PS4, PS3, PS Vita, and PC, and lasted over 16 hours. Sony acknowledged the issue via a tweet but has not clarified the cause of the disruption. Users have reported difficulties with offline gaming due to dependencies on PSN, such as digital rights management (DRM) checks and day-one updates. The situation has led to increased panic and confusion among customers, reminiscent of the 2011 PSN hack and outage.

Winsage

February 4, 2025

5 tools that put the Windows 11 Start menu to shame

The Start menu in Windows 11 has limited customization options, leading users to seek alternatives. Several third-party applications can enhance or replace the Start menu experience: 1. Windhawk: A free, open-source tool that allows customization of the Start menu and taskbar, offering features reminiscent of Windows 10, such as viewing the All apps list and removing the Recommended section. 2. StartAllBack: Restores the look of earlier Windows versions, providing a nostalgic interface with customization options, including a Windows 7-style menu, while enhancing the taskbar and File Explorer. 3. Start11: A powerful customization tool from Stardock that offers seven different styles for the Start menu, allowing users to organize apps into groups and folders, enhancing productivity. 4. PowerToys: Features PowerToys Run, a search bar that allows users to launch applications and perform tasks quickly, providing an efficient alternative to the Start menu. 5. Flow Launcher: A comprehensive replacement for the Start menu, offering a wide range of functionalities through plugins, allowing users to launch applications and access various tools efficiently.

Winsage

February 4, 2025

Why users still couldn’t care less about Windows 11

Users are hesitant to adopt Windows 11, with some comparing its promotion to selling sand at a beach. Although there was a slight increase in Windows 11's market share last month, the transition is not smooth. Windows 11 has strict hardware compatibility requirements, including a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2 and modern CPU, which frustrated many users at launch. Microsoft added the Surface Studio 2’s Intel Core i7-7820HQ to the compatibility list to address some concerns. As older computers become less common, finding incompatible PCs is becoming rare, yet Windows 10 still dominates the market. The impending end of support for Windows 10 is one of the few reasons users might consider upgrading, but many features in Windows 11 are already available in Windows 10. Organizations question the need to upgrade due to missing features and functionality complaints in Windows 11. Microsoft announced that support for most versions of Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. The lack of standout features in Windows 11 makes users reluctant to upgrade, despite hardware vendors shifting focus to AI PCs. Historical transitions between Windows versions were driven by compelling reasons, but the case for Windows 11 lacks persuasive incentives. IT departments may feel pressured to upgrade due to support expiration, but motivation must go beyond compliance. Microsoft needs to offer more than basic features to encourage adoption of Windows 11 and future AI PCs.

AppWizard

February 2, 2025

I got tired of Google Calendar’s basic features, so I switched to this alternative app

Google Calendar has limitations that hinder productivity, such as difficulties in managing events across multiple accounts and a lack of advanced features like natural language processing for event entry. Alternatives like Business Calendar 2 offer robust features, including syncing across multiple Google accounts and natural language input. DigiCal combines calendar functionality with weather data but lacks natural language support. Notion Calendar provides an attractive user interface but has limited functionality. For users wanting enhanced widgets for Google Calendar, options like Calendar Widget by Home Agenda and Event Flow Widget are available. Business Calendar 2 is highlighted as the best alternative for its extensive capabilities.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Essential apps for hardcore Android users [Video]

Seal is a minimalist downloader app for Android that allows users to download videos from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram in various formats and qualities. Zerocam is a camera replacement app that focuses on a natural photographic experience without excessive image processing, offering a free version with a limit of five photos per day and a subscription for additional features. Openvibe aggregates multiple social media platforms into one app, allowing users to post to Bluesky, Threads, Nostr, and Mastodon simultaneously. Twine is an RSS app that consolidates favorite feeds into one location and allows users to import collections via OPML files. AI Screenshot Finder helps users search and categorize their screenshots, processing data locally while leveraging cloud AI systems. Crate organizes links, recipes, and videos into custom sections and uses AI to assist in finding saved content. Sponge gamifies file management, allowing users to swipe to delete or tag files, organized by the month they were saved. Tooly is a versatile toolbox app that includes various tools for unit conversions and text formatting.

AppWizard

December 25, 2024

Minecraft player showcases an entertaining way to delete terrain

Minecraft features intricate mechanics, including commands that allow players to manipulate the game world. A player named u/kamekaptain shared a video on Reddit demonstrating the use of commands to flatten terrain while gliding through a biome with an elytra. The video sparked varied reactions, with some users speculating on the visual effects and practicality of the technique. Commands such as /fill, /setblock, and /give enable players to modify the environment, acquire items, and change game modes, though using commands disables achievements for that session.

BetaBeacon

December 20, 2024

I’m having more fun with the Analogue Pocket than any mobile game I’ve played

The Analogue Pocket is a handheld device that allows users to play original GameBoy cartridges with modern upgrades like a better display and USB-C charging. The device does not require Wi-Fi and offers six to ten hours of gameplay on a single charge. The price of the device is steep, but the real cost comes from purchasing retro GameBoy cartridges, which have increased in value over the years. Despite the limited number of titles available, the Analogue Pocket provides a nostalgic gaming experience without the distractions of ads and microtransactions.