screen recording Archives

Winsage

February 28, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (Dev and Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 (KB5052090) has been released to both the Dev and Beta Channels. This update introduces enhancements based on Windows 11, version 24H2, initially available as optional for Beta Channel users. A transition option from the Dev Channel to the Beta Channel is available but will close as higher build numbers are released. New features include support for lock screen widgets for users in the European Economic Area (EEA), with a new group policy to disable these widgets. Task Manager will now use standard metrics for CPU utilization, and sharing capabilities have been enhanced in File Explorer. Fixes include resolving issues in File Explorer, Taskbar, Remote Desktop, and Settings. Known issues involve incorrect build version display after a PC reset and difficulties with the Recall feature. An update for the Snipping Tool introduces a trim feature for screen recordings. Windows Insiders in both channels will receive updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2 through an enablement package. Features may evolve or be removed during development.

Winsage

February 25, 2025

Microsoft is testing a free desktop version of Office – but there’s a catch

Microsoft is testing a free, ad-supported desktop edition of Office, available exclusively on Windows. This version includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, but features persistent banner ads and muted video ads every few hours. Users face limitations such as restricted access to advanced features and the inability to save documents locally, as files must be stored on OneDrive with a maximum of 5GB for free users. The testing phase is limited, with access granted to a select group, and there are currently no plans for an official launch. Users can try the version by downloading it from the official Office website and following specific installation steps.

Winsage

February 25, 2025

Microsoft tests ad-supported Office apps for Windows users

Microsoft has introduced ad-supported versions of its Office desktop applications, allowing Windows users to edit documents without a subscription. These applications will display advertisements in a vertical panel on the right side of the window and include prompts encouraging users to subscribe to Microsoft 365 to remove ads. Users must download and install Microsoft 365 to access these applications, and they can choose to skip the sign-in process for free access. However, a subscription is required to save documents edited with these applications directly to local drives. The ad-supported versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint have limited functionality compared to the full versions. Reports suggest that the availability of these applications may be part of a regional test, as some outlets could not replicate the findings. Additionally, Microsoft has a history of integrating ads into its products, including in the Windows 11 Start menu and Windows File Explorer.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Microsoft now lets you use Office apps on Windows for free but with ads and some limits

Microsoft has adjusted the pricing of its Microsoft 365 subscription due to enhanced AI features, leading to user backlash. In response, Microsoft is allowing Windows users to access Office applications for free without a paid license. Users can skip the Microsoft Account sign-in prompt and continue for free, but files can only be saved to OneDrive, and advertisements will appear unless users subscribe to Microsoft 365. The free versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint have limitations, including the absence of certain features like dictation, add-ins, and advanced formatting tools. This offering is currently being trialed with a select group of users and specific regions, and some users have reported issues accessing the feature.

Winsage

February 24, 2025

Microsoft launches ad-supported Office apps for Windows users

Microsoft has introduced ad-supported versions of its Office desktop applications for Windows users, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These applications display advertisements in a vertical panel on the right side of the window while users work. Users are encouraged to subscribe to Microsoft 365 to remove ads, with saving edited documents limited to OneDrive unless a paid subscription is chosen. The ad-supported versions come with basic functionality and restrictions compared to the full versions. Microsoft has previously integrated advertisements into its products, including the Windows 11 Start menu and Windows File Explorer.

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Snipping Tool is getting a handy new feature for screen recording

Microsoft has released a new version of the Snipping Tool (11.2501.7.0) for Windows Insiders, which includes a video trimming feature that allows users to edit screen recordings directly within the app. Users can record a screen session, open the recording, and use the Trim button to adjust the start and end times. Additionally, Microsoft is developing new Optical Character Recognition (OCR) features expected to be unveiled by the end of 2024. Other updates for Windows Insiders include enhancements for Copilot+ PCs, new Start menu layouts, and a new method for sharing files between devices.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Messenger rolls out new safety, useful, and fun features

Meta has updated Messenger with new features focusing on privacy, usability, and enjoyment. Privacy and safety updates include the View Once Media option for single-view media messages, screenshot and screen recording blocks, in-app scam alerts via Spam Protection, and streamlined reporting and blocking of suspicious contacts. Usability improvements consist of HD photo sharing, enhanced HD video calls, noise-suppressed audio for clearer calls, and Siri integration for easier navigation. Expressive features allow users to personalize chats with themes, add music to notes, and use new sticker packs, including the Butterbear stickers. Social features encourage community building through Messenger Communities, enabling topic-based chats via QR codes, and engaging with public figures through Broadcast Channels.

Winsage

February 19, 2025

7 ancient apps you can still use in Windows 11

Disk Cleanup, introduced in Windows 98, helps users reclaim disk space by removing system restore points, temporary files, and remnants from outdated Windows Updates. Windows Media Player, which debuted with Windows 3.0, remains available in Windows 11 and is used for playing DVDs and organizing music collections. The Control Panel has been part of Windows since 1985 and provides access to legacy tools, although Microsoft encourages users to use the modern Settings app. Character Map, introduced in Windows 3.1 in 1992, allows users to access every glyph in installed fonts and is useful for inserting specialized characters. Notepad, a staple since 1983, has received updates including spell check and rich formatting options in Windows 11. The Snipping Tool, first introduced in Windows Vista in 2007, has evolved to include features like screen recording and OCR-powered text extraction. WinZip, a third-party compression tool that debuted in 1991, remains popular for managing ZIP files and continues to function on Windows 11.

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.

BetaBeacon

February 10, 2025

Android 15 unveiled: Smarter AI, stronger security, and game-changing features

- Android 15 includes Smarter AI with Gemini AI for personalized recommendations based on usage patterns - Enhanced Security Measures include Theft detection lock feature and Identity Check for biometric authentication - Improved Multitasking with App Pairing and Partial screen recording - Better Connectivity with Satellite Messaging and advanced NFC for contactless payments - Sleek Design with polished animations and Dynamic Colors - Device Availability: Google Pixel 6 will be the first to receive the update, followed by Samsung and OnePlus.