search tool Archives

Winsage

May 18, 2025

This free Windows 11 tool actually makes the File Explorer bearable

Microsoft's File Explorer has introduced a tab-based layout, but users still find it lacking in functionalities. The Explorer Tab Utility enhances the experience by integrating with Windows to transform new File Explorer windows into tabs. It offers hotkey commands for quick access, such as Win + E for the Home page and Ctrl + D to duplicate tabs. Users can customize hotkeys and create custom commands by specifying a name, hotkeys, scope, and action. Actions include opening File Explorer, conducting a tab search, and managing tab visibility. The utility provides a simple setup process and can be managed through a taskbar icon.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

This is the best companion app for the Linux terminal on Android

Google's latest Pixel Drop update has introduced a Linux Terminal app that runs within a Debian-based virtual machine. The Linux Command Library is a companion app designed to assist users with the terminal experience, featuring three main tabs: Basics, Tips, and Commands. The Basics section offers an overview of essential commands, the Tips section provides curated commands for beginners, and the Commands tab serves as a master search tool for more experienced users. Users can copy and paste commands directly from the app into the terminal. Not all commands in the Linux Command Library are compatible with the default Android Terminal app, and some command-line games may not function as intended. The app aims to help users navigate the complexities of the Linux Terminal, making it a valuable resource for both newcomers and experienced users.

Winsage

May 3, 2025

I use these 5 free tools to search files on Windows 11, and they are a lot better than Windows Search

Finding files swiftly and efficiently is essential for productivity, but Windows Search often falls short. A range of third-party tools exists that can significantly enhance your file search experience on Windows 11, offering superior speed, features, and user experience. 1. Everything: This lightweight application indexes files quickly, creating a searchable database with real-time updates. It has a minimalist interface and uses minimal system resources. 2. Listary: Integrates with File Explorer, offering instant search capabilities and customizable commands. It allows easy navigation between directories and serves as a launcher for files and applications. 3. DocFetcher: An open-source tool that indexes not just filenames but also the contents of text files, supporting formats like PDFs and Word documents. It requires initial indexing but provides quick search results afterward. 4. SearchMyFiles: Offers customizable search options with advanced filters and can find duplicate files. It is portable and user-friendly, suitable for various users. 5. FileSeek: A versatile tool for both simple and complex searches, capable of searching file contents and defining specific parameters. It offers search profiles for quick access and has a trial version that reverts to a free version. These tools outshine Windows Search due to their rapid speed, advanced search options, file content indexing, and lightweight operation.

AppWizard

April 29, 2025

Gemini preps a ‘Saved info’ rebrand as work on chat history search continues (APK teardown)

- The Gemini name is being phased out from headers, indicating a potential rebranding effort. - The "Saved info" feature may be renamed to "Memory" to enhance its functionality in remembering user preferences. - Improvements are being made for accessing and viewing chat history to enhance user interaction and navigation. - The latest beta version, 16.16.39.sa.arm64, reveals upcoming features, although they are not yet visible to the public. - The removal of the Gemini label from model headers is a prominent change, accompanied by a new blue background effect and a reorganization of model names and descriptions. - A search tool for chat history is being introduced, with various layouts being tested, including one that prioritizes Gems at the top. - Enhancements to the compose box are planned, potentially offering suggestions for research topics and Canvas projects.

AppWizard

April 7, 2025

Song search history finally comes to Google app in beta (APK teardown)

Google is rolling out a song history feature in its app for Android users, allowing them to access a record of previously identified songs directly within the app. This feature is part of the 16.13.38 beta release and includes a history icon in the song search interface. Users can view thumbnails, song and artist information, and timestamps of searches. Engaging with an entry initiates a Google Search for the song. This update enhances the user experience but does not change the accuracy of Google's song recognition capabilities. Further improvements in song recognition are also anticipated.

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

March 25, 2025

This Windows 11 Beta build may finally make Copilot+ PCs useful

Microsoft has introduced a context-based search engine for Windows 11, allowing users to find files and images using descriptive terms instead of file names. This feature includes semantic indexing and is available on AMD and Intel®-powered Copilot+ PCs. Users can search for documents, photos, and settings by typing phrases that describe their content, such as “bridge at sunset” or “Europe trip budget.” The search functionality works offline due to the integrated 40+ TOPS NPU in Copilot+ PCs. Additionally, the context search feature extends to images stored in OneDrive, enabling users to search both local and cloud storage.

Winsage

March 12, 2025

4 reasons PowerToys Run is the best Spotlight alternative for Windows users

PowerToys is a suite of productivity tools for Windows users, featuring PowerToys Run, which serves as an alternative to macOS's Spotlight. PowerToys Run allows users to launch applications and search for files quickly and efficiently, with built-in plug-ins for searching the Windows registry, executing terminal commands, converting units, performing calculations, creating timestamps, and conducting web searches. It offers high customization options, enabling users to adjust settings for an optimized search experience. Additionally, it supports third-party extensions for enhanced functionality, such as browser history searches and direct queries to ChatGPT. The entire PowerToys suite includes other tools like FancyZones for window management and PowerRename for file renaming, contributing to improved workflow efficiency.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

8 reasons to stop using Windows Search and use Everything instead

The search functionality in Windows 11 has been improved, but users may still experience slow performance or difficulty finding files. An alternative is Everything, a free utility by Voidtools that efficiently finds files and folders by indexing their names and continuously tracking changes. It has a lightweight design that minimizes resource usage, making it suitable for older PCs. Everything provides almost instantaneous search results by indexing the entire local drive, displays hidden files by default, and offers easy installation. It features real-time indexing, allowing immediate updates when files are modified, and has a portable version for use on different computers. Additionally, Everything can index network drives for efficient searches across shared devices. It is free to use, ad-free, and does not contain bloatware, with donations accepted to support the developer.

Winsage

March 7, 2025

Hands-on: Listary is a lightweight launcher that levels up your productivity on Windows

Listary is a hybrid app launcher and file search tool designed to enhance productivity by providing quick access to applications and files. Users can launch apps by pressing Ctrl twice, which opens a search bar for swift navigation, reducing reliance on the Windows Start menu. It features fast file search capabilities, allowing users to customize their search index and filter results based on content types and modification dates. Listary includes a Quick Switch feature for instant folder access and integrates with various third-party applications. However, it lacks extensive extensibility through plugins, offering limited advanced capabilities compared to competitors.