simplicity Archives

AppWizard

September 19, 2025

4 apps you should use instead of Google Docs

The author experienced file management issues with Google Docs due to its lack of a folder system, leading to a search for alternatives. 1. Notion: Offers seamless transition from Google Docs, with essential formatting tools, auto-save, user-friendly sharing, and offline access. It is highly customizable but has a steep learning curve compared to Google Docs. 2. Obsidian: Focuses on privacy with local file storage by default, allowing offline access without internet. It offers cloud synchronization for flexibility but is ideal for users who prefer keeping documents off the cloud. 3. Simplenote: A simple app for creating notes and to-do lists with easy sharing and document pinning. It lacks a folder organization system, which may limit its use for extensive document collections. 4. WPS Office: A robust alternative that supports document creation, presentations, and spreadsheets, with a built-in PDF reader. Its interface resembles Microsoft Word, but it is owned by a Chinese company, raising some privacy concerns despite end-to-end encryption. The author also mentions Evernote and Google Keep as other options, with Evernote's free plan becoming less appealing and Google Keep being simpler but limited for extensive document needs.

AppWizard

September 18, 2025

If you’re sad Pokopia isn’t on PC, grab eight great Pokémon-like alternatives at 92% off

The upcoming release of Pokopia is generating interest among gamers without a Nintendo console. Temtem, an indie game available in the Critter Chaos Bundle for .45 (£1.55 each), offers a Pokémon-like experience with 165 unique creatures, a vibrant visual style, and a complex battle system. Cassette Beasts introduces a nostalgic twist with a tape recorder mechanic and a fusion system for creating powerful creatures. The bundle includes eight games: Temtem, Fruitbus, Farewell North, Meg's Monster, Cassette Beasts, Moonstone Island, Copycat, and Coroman, and is available until October 8, 2025. All titles are verified for Valve's console.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Windows 11 Notepad will soon let you generate text using on-device AI models

Microsoft has updated its Notepad application on Windows 11 to include on-device AI capabilities for generating, rewriting, and summarizing text, eliminating the need for an internet connection and a Microsoft 365 subscription. The new features utilize the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in Copilot+ PCs for local processing. Users can now access AI functionalities without being signed in or subscribed. Additionally, Notepad has received enhancements such as new formatting options, spell check, tabbed browsing, and other improvements. The updated version is currently available in preview for Windows Insiders and will be released to all users soon.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Microsoft Paint Evolves with Photoshop-Like Layers and Opacity Tools

Microsoft's Paint application, introduced in 1985, is receiving significant upgrades in the latest Windows 11 Insider builds, making it more comparable to professional software like Adobe Photoshop. Key features include a new project file format (.paintproject) that allows users to save layered, editable compositions, and adjustable brush opacity for improved transparency control. These updates enhance Paint's capabilities, including previously added layers and transparency support. The changes aim to position Paint as a free alternative to subscription-based tools, potentially impacting Adobe's market share among casual creators and small businesses. Future updates may include full PSD import/export functionality, facilitating better collaboration with Photoshop users.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Xbox Mode is Set to Transform Your Handheld PC into a Gaming Powerhouse

Microsoft has introduced Xbox Mode for Windows 11, which is part of the Windows 11 25H2 update. This feature allows handheld gaming PCs, such as the Asus ROG Ally and MSI Claw, to operate similarly to dedicated gaming consoles by launching directly into the Xbox PC app and bypassing the traditional Windows desktop. It frees up approximately 2GB of memory for a more efficient gaming experience and provides a streamlined interface that aggregates games from multiple platforms. The mode includes a Game Bar for easy access to controls and a revamped task view for switching between applications. Users can still run Windows applications within this mode, and early adopters have successfully implemented it on devices like the original ROG Ally. Setting up this mode involves installing a Release Preview version of Windows 11 and making registry adjustments, which can lead to instability if not done carefully.

Winsage

September 17, 2025

Stop struggling with Windows Search — try these 6 game‑changing alternatives

Windows 11's built-in search feature is often slow and inefficient, particularly with non-indexed locations and numerous files. It has a cluttered search home filled with advertisements. Several third-party tools are recommended as alternatives to enhance search functionality: - Command Palette: Part of PowerToys, it allows instant results for queries and supports command execution, quick navigation, and customization. - Fluent Search: Offers a comprehensive search experience with a native file indexer, rapid results, and OCR technology for searching visible content on screens. - Everything: Focuses on speed by indexing files and folders instantly, providing real-time results based on names, though it lacks additional features. - Listary: Integrates with Windows and File Explorer, allowing direct searches within these environments and offering customization for commands and automation. - Flow Launcher: A free, open-source app launcher that enhances search by integrating with the Everything indexer and includes built-in plugins for added functionality. - RayCast: An app launcher in beta for Windows, originally for macOS, featuring productivity tools and AI capabilities, allowing efficient task performance without a mouse. These tools cater to various user needs, improving the search experience on Windows 11.

AppWizard

September 17, 2025

Playing Battlefield 6’s biggest map has convinced me that ditching Levolution was the right call

The author explored two maps, Mirak Valley and Operation Firestorm, in the upcoming Battlefield 6, along with the new Escalation game mode. Mirak Valley features rocky terrain and central built-up areas, providing a tactical environment for combat. The gameplay in Conquest mode rewards initiative and teamwork, with a focus on capturing control points. Operation Firestorm has been revitalized, maintaining its classic essence while introducing new mechanics in Escalation, where holding more points fills a meter for team points and leads to increased vehicle presence. The gameplay experience promises to enhance the franchise's reputation, aiming to improve upon previous iterations. The release of Battlefield 6 is set for October 10.

AppWizard

September 17, 2025

Building Blocks: Desert Well

Wells have been a crucial water source, especially in arid regions, with the oldest known well in Cyprus dating back over 10,000 years. This ancient well reaches a depth of eight meters through limestone. Stepwells in western India, built between the 7th and 19th centuries, are notable architectural examples that provided water access and showcased artistic design. Hand-dug wells have historically been a simple and economical method for obtaining drinking water in dry climates and remain important in rural areas of developing countries. Modern practices often involve drilling wells with machines and using pumps for easier water retrieval. Additionally, in the game Minecraft, players can create their own water sources using sandstone blocks and water, although caution is advised when digging due to potential underground caves.

AppWizard

September 17, 2025

Borderlands 4 shed its iconic UI and all it got was this stupid live service-y inventory that doesn’t let me filter my crap properly

In Borderlands 4, players face significant challenges with the inventory management system, which is chaotic and inefficient. Items are sorted by manufacturer, lacking options for sorting by recent pickups, item value, or level. Customizing sorting preferences can reset the organization, causing frustration. The interface mixes equipped and unequipped items, requiring players to check for a small indicator to identify equipped gear. Compared to Borderlands 2, the inventory management in Borderlands 4 is less cohesive and more cumbersome, impacting overall enjoyment. Additional grievances include a complicated item drop process, obscured currency visibility, small weapon cards, and ineffective item filtering. These issues detract from the core looter shooter experience, hindering players' ability to quickly engage in combat.

Winsage

September 16, 2025

Experimental Google app brings web and local search to your Windows PC

Google has launched a new app for Windows that integrates web search, Google Drive access, and local file searches into a single interface. The app is currently available only for personal Google accounts and is in testing, with some expected bugs. Users can activate the search feature using Alt+Space or a customizable shortcut, which opens a floating Google search bar. Search results appear in a compact window below the bar, and the app includes select Knowledge Graph content for quick information retrieval. It allows users to access local files, Google Drive documents, and installed applications from one interface, with options to toggle off local files and Drive for a focused search. The app also features Google Lens, enabling image searches or translations from items displayed on the PC screen.