search box Archives

Winsage

May 16, 2026

Announcing new builds for 15 May 2026

The Windows Insider Program is expanding the rollout of its revamped Beta Channel experience to devices. New Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds are being released, with release notes available for all Insiders. Existing Beta Channel Insiders on Windows 11 version 26H1 will receive the same build version as Experimental (26H1) for now, but distinct builds will be introduced in the coming weeks. Users transitioning from the default 25H2 core version to 26H1 may experience a delay in the new version uptake. Notable new features include: - Taskbar Improvements: Users can reposition the taskbar to the top, bottom, left, or right of the screen. A smaller taskbar option is also introduced for better screen space utilization. - Widgets: Taskbar badging color will now align with the Windows accent color, and user experience will be tailored based on engagement levels. - Windows Search Box: Enhancements are being made to prioritize files and apps over web suggestions for improved relevance.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

Windows 11 Emoji Picker Search Box Disappears in Some Builds, Restarting Explorer Restores It

A glitch in Windows 11 has caused the search box in the emoji picker to disappear, affecting users' ability to search for emojis by name. This issue has been reported by multiple users and confirmed by Windows Central in the Insider Beta channel, but Microsoft has not acknowledged it or provided a fix. A temporary solution involves restarting Windows Explorer through Task Manager, which can restore the search box functionality. The bug's prevalence varies among users, and it is unclear if it affects stable releases of Windows 11.

Winsage

May 14, 2026

I hit the Windows 11 emoji picker bug that hides search and found a quick fix

Windows 11 users have experienced an issue with the emoji picker where the search box disappears unexpectedly. This problem has been noted by multiple users, including a colleague from Android Central. A simple solution to restore the search function involves opening Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, locating Windows Explorer in the list of processes, right-clicking on it, and selecting Restart. This action reloads the user interface elements and effectively restores the emoji search feature until a permanent fix is provided by Microsoft.

AppWizard

May 7, 2026

Path of Exile 2’s complete endgame redesign is great for everyone, especially newcomers

Grinding Gear Games unveiled the upcoming Path of Exile 2 patch 0.5, titled "Return of the Ancients," which includes nearly 900 words of updates. The patch features a comprehensive redesign of the endgame, introducing new systems like Atlas Ascendancies and league-specific features such as Runes of Aldur. The Runes of Aldur league involves rescuing a blacksmith and activating remnants for rewards, including over 100 new runes and a new stat called Runic Ward. A new currency type, Alloys, allows crafting modifiers on items. The endgame has a revamped structure with fixed league mechanics and unique quest lines, culminating in encounters with the Arbiter of Ash and a mysterious ultimate boss. All four launch mechanics have received upgrades, and quality-of-life improvements include in-game build guides and enhanced market features. Two new Ascendancies, the Spirit Walker Huntress and Martial Artist Monk, will be introduced, along with new unique items like Raven's Flock. The patch is scheduled for release on May 29, 2026, with a showcase at Exilecon in November.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

Circle to Search update lets Google look beyond your screen content

In the Google app beta update (v17.18.24), the Circle to Search feature has been rebranded to "Ask about screen." This update enhances user experience by allowing searches to automatically include URLs, page content, and PDF data, providing richer context for AI-generated results. Users can now see a search box labeled “Ask about screen,” which emphasizes the ability to “Search with more context.” During testing, users have successfully uploaded URLs and PDFs while using this feature in apps like Google Chrome and Files by Google. The update is currently being rolled out to beta users, with potential incorporation into the stable version depending on feedback.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Should you debloat Windows 11? The custom ISO scene is bigger than you think

Windows 11 is the preferred operating system for many users after the discontinuation of Windows 10, but its adoption faces challenges due to strict hardware requirements and design issues. Customization has been largely driven by third-party developers, with tools like Winhance enhancing user experience. Users are interested in debloating Windows 11, seeking scripts and custom ISOs such as AtlasOS, FoxOS, ReviOS, and GGOS. AtlasOS is noted for its lightweight modification aimed at improving privacy, usability, and performance while eliminating telemetry and background processes. Microsoft has stopped the mandatory update process during Windows 11 setup, allowing users to bypass a previous wait time. The company plans further improvements by 2026, including reducing the visibility of Copilot and reintroducing features like a movable Taskbar. Microsoft is also integrating AI into the user experience with upcoming features on the Taskbar and Search Box.

Winsage

April 20, 2026

Microsoft is finally adding the right kind of AI support to Windows 11

Windows 11 will enhance the Taskbar and Search Box with support for AI agents next month, allowing developers to integrate AI functionalities through new APIs. This feature will not be activated by default, giving users the option to opt out. Microsoft aims to make Windows AI-ready in response to trends where AI tools are more popular on Mac systems, while facing pushback from Windows users regarding AI integration. The company seeks to balance innovation with user concerns and prioritize quality across the platform to regain user trust.

Winsage

March 20, 2026

How I’ve improved Windows 11 with a 30-year-old tool

Microsoft PowerToys is a utility that enhances the Windows experience with additional features. It was first introduced with Windows 95, revived in 2019 as an open-source tool, and is available for free download from the Microsoft Store or GitHub. Key features of PowerToys include: - Pin important windows on top: Users can pin active windows above others using the shortcut Win+Ctrl+T, allowing for better focus on key tasks. - Resize images: The Image Resizer tool allows users to resize images to specific dimensions through right-click options, with presets for Fill, Fit, or Stretch. - Extract text from the screen: The Text Extractor uses Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to copy text directly from anywhere on the screen by selecting the area with Win+T. - Control multiple computers: The Mouse Without Borders feature enables users to control up to four computers with a single set of peripherals and share clipboard and files. - Customize shortcuts: The Keyboard Manager allows users to remap keys and shortcuts, though some keys are reserved for system functions. - Batch rename files: PowerRename enables users to rename multiple files at once through a right-click option, with a preview of changes. - Thumbnail and preview pane previews: PowerToys enhances file previews in File Explorer for additional file types and adds thumbnail support for files that Windows Explorer does not natively generate thumbnails for. - Crop and Lock: This feature allows users to crop application windows to focus on specific content, with two modes: Thumbnail mode for static previews and Reparent mode for functional cropped windows. PowerToys continues to be a valuable tool for enhancing productivity on Windows.

Winsage

February 19, 2026

Microsoft shows off AI running on the Windows 11 taskbar and File Explorer

Microsoft has introduced a feature called “Ask Copilot,” integrated into the taskbar of Windows 11, which replaces the traditional Windows Search. This feature aims to enhance user productivity by providing quick access to information from files, emails, and meetings. It allows users to locate files and settings using simple prompts and leverages an improved search index for faster and more relevant results. The AI capabilities enable users to ask questions like “When is my performance review due?” and receive answers from Microsoft Teams and Outlook. Additionally, users can summon various AI agents directly from the taskbar by typing the “@” symbol, including the Microsoft 365 Researcher for in-depth research. Microsoft is also adding “Ask Microsoft 365 Copilot” within File Explorer to provide insights for shared files. These features are expected to roll out to users in the coming weeks.

Winsage

February 19, 2026

Announcing New Optional Windows 11 Insider Preview Build for Canary Channel 29531.1000

A new optional update for the Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel has been released, introducing a dual-path approach for validating platform modifications. Windows Insiders can now preview Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 28020.1611, which emphasizes new features for version 26H1 and will be classified under the 28000 series. Insiders can update to the new active development Build 29531.1000 via Settings, transitioning to the 29500 series. Future Canary Channel builds will be detailed in individual blog posts. Insiders are advised to remain on their current update path for stability, as reverting to lower build numbers requires a clean installation of Windows 11. The update includes platform changes and may exhibit instability, with features potentially evolving or being removed. A desktop watermark will be displayed in pre-release builds, and some features may debut in other channels before the Canary Channel. Localization of features will occur over time, and feedback on localization issues can be submitted through the Feedback Hub.