search functionality Archives

AppWizard

June 12, 2025

Android 16 QPR1 Beta redesigns the Pixel Launcher search bar, adds AI Mode

In Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2, the Pixel Launcher features a redesigned search bar that aligns with the Google app's updated homescreen widget. The new design includes a more compact search bar with an AI Mode icon on the right, a magnifying glass in four Google colors, and a darker background for better organization. The redesign is limited to the search bar and does not affect the top of the app launcher. Currently, users have limited customization options for the search bar shortcut, while the Google app offers various shortcuts that integrate with Google Lens. The redesign is visible on one device following a server-side update, and a new gradient G logo was introduced recently.

AppWizard

June 11, 2025

Here’s an early look at the Material 3 Expressive changes headed to the Google app (APK teardown)

The Google app on Android is undergoing a visual refresh with the beta release of version 16.22.44, featuring design updates aligned with Material 3 Expressive language. Key changes include a translucent gradient background for the status bar, a redesigned thicker and more rounded progress bar, and dynamic tabs that will hide during scrolling. A new "Refresh" button will also be introduced under the search bar, although it is not yet functional. These updates aim to enhance user experience and interactivity within the app.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

AI-powered Relight and Search now available in Microsoft Photos

The Microsoft Photos app has been updated on Windows 11, introducing new features for Copilot+ PCs. The Relight feature allows users to adjust lighting in images by positioning up to three light sources, changing light color, and setting a focus point, with additional brightness and intensity controls. Built-in presets are also available for quick application. This feature will initially be available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with support for AMD and Intel-powered devices coming soon. The app now includes improved photo search using natural language, enabling users to find images by descriptive phrases. For commercial users signed in with Microsoft Entra ID, access to Restyle Image and Image Creator is now available. Users should update their Photos app to version 2025.11060.5006.0 or higher to access these features.

Winsage

June 6, 2025

I wish this version of the Microsoft Store shipped 10 years ago

The Microsoft Store is undergoing significant changes to improve user experience, including a personalized homepage that showcases apps tailored to individual interests, accelerated search functionality for easier app discovery, and integration with Windows search. Earlier this year, Microsoft announced over 150 changes to the Store, focusing on user feedback to enhance engagement and satisfaction. The Store is used by over 250 million users each month, and strategic leadership changes have contributed to an improved user experience.

Winsage

June 5, 2025

Leveling up your Microsoft Store on Windows experience

The Microsoft Store on Windows serves over 250 million users monthly and is enhancing user experience through customer feedback. The homepage is being redesigned to offer personalized recommendations based on user interests and activities. Significant improvements to search functionality include a more intent-aware search feature, the introduction of Copilot for assistance, a "Discover More" section on product pages, and badges for apps with AI features. Integration with Windows is being improved by allowing users to launch searches for Store apps and suggesting apps for specific file extensions. The Store now launches twice as fast, with improved installation reliability. Additional enhancements include the ability to install individual game components, faster in-app rating dialogs, and updated information on product pages. New developer partnerships have been established, and users are encouraged to provide feedback through the Feedback Hub.

Winsage

June 5, 2025

Windows 11’s Microsoft Store Gets Smarter Search and Copilot Integration

The Microsoft Store on Windows 11 is being transformed with a reimagined search experience that is more intuitive and responsive to user intent, utilizing signals like app updates and ratings for improved relevance. New product page badges will highlight applications with artificial intelligence capabilities. A Copilot button will be added to product pages for users in the United States, allowing them to ask questions about apps and compare products side by side. A "Discover More" section will curate related content based on user interests, and personalized home pages will adapt to individual user habits and trends. Additionally, integration of Store apps within Windows Search will allow users to install apps directly from search results, and new app suggestions will be tested in the "Open with" context menu for Insiders on the Beta Channel.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for just A$23

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is currently available for a reduced price of A, down from A0, until June 1. It features a streamlined interface, improved voice typing, robust search functionality, advanced security measures including biometric logins and encrypted authentication, integration with Microsoft Teams, Azure Active Directory for managing logins, Hyper-V for virtual machines, Windows Sandbox for secure file experimentation, touch navigation, and support for DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming. The system requirements include at least 4GB of RAM and 40GB of hard drive space, and compatibility issues may arise for users unable to install updates via Windows Update.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

The Windows File Explorer is still so bad when it comes to networked drives

File Explorer in Windows 11 has usability issues, particularly with sluggish search functionality and problems accessing networked drives. Users often experience drives disappearing after reboot, inaccessibility to files, and freezing of File Explorer, with error codes like c0000375 indicating deeper issues. The networked drive feature relies on outdated technology, as Microsoft has deprecated older protocols like SMBv1, complicating file sharing. Users can mitigate freezing by restarting File Explorer and ensuring network settings are correctly configured, such as setting Wi-Fi to private and enabling file sharing options. Excessive pinned items in Quick Access can cause crashes, and clearing the cache may resolve these issues. Alternatives to File Explorer, like XYplorer and File Pilot, can provide better access to networked drives. Overall, the challenges stem from outdated technology and the corruption of the Quick Access cache, with third-party solutions available for relief.

AppWizard

May 26, 2025

This new Android launcher is my new must-have app for foldable phones

Foldable smartphones often face software limitations, particularly with launchers, leading users to choose between restrictive first-party options and inadequate third-party alternatives. Octopi Launcher has emerged as a promising solution, recently launching in beta on the Play Store. It offers unique configurations tailored to both the smaller cover screen and the larger display of foldable devices, allowing users to customize layouts for different orientations and purposes. Users can create up to four distinct layouts, with options for portrait and landscape modes, and can easily set up new layouts with intuitive prompts. Octopi excels in widget management, allowing independent sizing of widgets and app icons without compromising icon size. It supports overlapping and stacked widgets, enhancing visual appeal. The app drawer offers customizable options, including traditional icon shapes or tiles that display app names. While Octopi is impressive, it is still in development, with limitations in its gesture library and basic search functionality. It is best suited for foldable phones, although it can still benefit traditional devices. Overall, Octopi Launcher is tailored for heavy customizers and shows promise for future updates.

Winsage

May 25, 2025

Get Windows 11 Pro for your PC for $15

Microsoft is offering Windows 11 Pro for .97, down from its regular price of 9. This offer is valid only until the end of today and is limited by available codes. Windows 11 Pro can be installed on two compatible PCs and features a modern user interface, productivity tools, enhanced security measures, and professional features for remote work.