Slack Archives

Winsage

January 15, 2026

Speed Up Your Windows 11 Launch Time in a Snap. Here’s How to Do It

The delay in booting up a Windows 11 laptop can be caused by multiple applications that automatically launch at startup, which can hinder system performance. Common applications that may launch include antivirus programs, Microsoft OneDrive, Slack, gaming applications, backup tools, and webcam software. Users can manage these startup applications through three methods: Task Manager, Settings, or File Explorer. In Task Manager, users can view and disable startup applications by right-clicking on entries in the Startup apps menu. The impact of each application on startup time is categorized as high, medium, low, none, or not measured. In the Settings app, users can navigate to Apps and then Startup to toggle off applications they do not want to launch automatically. File Explorer can also be used to manage startup applications by accessing the shell:appsfolder and shell:startup or shell:common startup commands to view and modify the applications set to launch at sign-in. Users are advised to disable applications they rarely use while keeping essential security software enabled. Third-party startup managers like Autoruns and Startup Delayer can provide additional insights into startup applications. Similar management methods apply to previous Windows versions.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

Slack Messenger Review: Why This Work Chat App Is Still the Only One That Feels Human

Slack Messenger is a collaboration platform developed by Slack Technologies, part of Salesforce Inc., designed to enhance work communication by replacing email and fragmented chat applications with an organized, searchable hub. It features channel-based messaging for project and topic organization, powerful search capabilities for efficient information retrieval, and integrations with popular tools like Google Drive and GitHub. Additional functionalities include Slack Connect for external collaboration, built-in audio/video huddles, Workflow Builder for automating tasks, and enterprise-grade security options. Users report a significant reduction in internal email, improved search efficiency, and a positive impact on team culture, although challenges such as notification overload and a learning curve exist. Compared to alternatives like Microsoft Teams and Google Chat, Slack is noted for its user-friendly experience and dynamic functionality.

AppWizard

January 10, 2026

Slack Messenger: The Surprisingly Addictive Work Chat That Makes Email Feel Ancient

Slack Messenger organizes workplace communication through specific channels, allowing for easy access to relevant discussions. Its powerful search functionality enables quick retrieval of past decisions and documents. The platform integrates with numerous applications, minimizing context switching and centralizing notifications. Features like threads, mentions, and custom emojis promote focused discussions while fostering team culture. Slack Huddles facilitate informal collaboration, and Workflow Builder automates routine tasks, enhancing efficiency. Enterprise-grade security and compliance controls make it suitable for regulated industries. Users report increased productivity, reduced need for meetings due to integrations, and a supportive remote culture, although challenges such as notification overload and information sprawl exist. Many critiques arise from poor implementation rather than the platform itself. Compared to competitors, Slack is seen as faster and more intuitive, with preferred usability and cultural appeal.

AppWizard

January 10, 2026

Slack Messenger Review: Why This Workplace Chat App Still Owns the Modern Office

Slack Messenger is a cloud-based collaboration and messaging platform owned by Salesforce Inc. It is designed to organize workplace communication through channel-based messaging, allowing separate discussions for projects, teams, or topics. Key features include powerful search capabilities, integrations with over 2,000 apps like Google Drive and Zoom, audio/video huddles, workflow automation, enterprise-grade security, and cross-organization collaboration via Slack Connect. Users generally appreciate its organization, user experience, and integration capabilities, although some express concerns about notification overload, cost at scale, and a learning curve for new users. Compared to alternatives like Microsoft Teams, Google Chat, and Discord, Slack is seen as more responsive and suitable for structured environments. It is particularly beneficial for organizations already using Salesforce due to enhanced integration with Salesforce workflows.

Winsage

January 6, 2026

Microsoft’s latest ad proves even its own marketing team won’t use Edge

Microsoft's recent advertisement for PC gaming featured Google Chrome pinned to the taskbar of a Windows computer, despite the company's promotion of its own browser, Microsoft Edge. The ad displayed Chrome prominently early in the video, which is notable given that nearly 95% of Steam gamers use Windows, with 70.83% having upgraded to Windows 11. Although Windows dominates the gaming sector, there is a growing interest in alternatives like Linux, which now supports about 90% of Windows games, though major titles remain unavailable due to anti-cheat systems. The inclusion of Chrome in the ad is seen as an anomaly, as promotional content typically avoids showcasing competitors. It is also noted that not all Microsoft employees exclusively use Microsoft Edge, suggesting a disconnect between the company's advertising and user behavior.

BetaBeacon

December 31, 2025

Best Android Games To Play When You’re Stuck Waiting in Coffee Shops, During Commutes & More

- Candy Crush Saga is a popular casual Android game that combines strategy with chance. - Roblox and Minecraft are digital playgrounds where players can create and explore unique worlds. - Five Nights at Freddy's is a horror game that has gained popularity for its simple mechanics and tense gameplay. - Garena's Free Fire is a popular battle royale game on Android with over a billion downloads. - There are many other great Android games for short gaming sessions that cater to different preferences and needs.

Winsage

December 25, 2025

10 free Windows apps that improved my productivity (and I’d easily pay money for)

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users. Notable applications for Windows include: 1. LibreOffice: A free office suite with tools similar to MS Office, offering a modern or classic interface and local data privacy. 2. Flow Launcher: A rapid file search and app launcher that is customizable and visually appealing, available for free. 3. Duplicati: A backup solution that allows data backup to various destinations, including cloud services, with features like scheduling and remote management, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, installable on Windows at no cost. 5. Franz: An application that consolidates multiple messaging services into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: A customizable top bar for Windows that displays system information and provides quick access to controls, enhancing desktop aesthetics and functionality. 7. File Converter: A tool for converting and compressing files directly from the Windows file manager, free to use. 8. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with essential features, free to use with a premium option for advanced features. 9. AutoHotKey: A tool for automating tasks through scripting, available for free installation. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI solution with a user-friendly interface, free to install and use on Windows.

AppWizard

December 23, 2025

Android 16 made me fall back in love with split-screen and app pairs

Google introduced a feature called app pairs with Android 15, allowing users to save two apps as a single icon for simultaneous launching in split-screen mode. Initially available only on tablets, it expanded to devices like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and other smartphones. Early users found the multi-window mode cumbersome due to limited display space. Android 16 improved this with a 90:10 split-screen mode, prioritizing one app while minimizing the other, enhancing multitasking on smaller displays. The ability to save app pairs streamlines launching two apps side-by-side. Users have found productivity benefits by pairing apps like Spotify with fitness trackers or productivity tools like Slack and Asana.

Winsage

December 5, 2025

Decline of Native Windows Apps: Electron’s Rise and Hybrid Future

Native Windows apps, once central to the desktop experience, are declining in favor of web-based technologies like Electron and Chromium. Developers are shifting towards web wrappers for cross-platform compatibility and efficiency, despite performance drawbacks. WhatsApp has transitioned from a native app to a web wrapper, prioritizing maintenance over performance. This trend is evident across various software categories, with applications like Spotify and Slack adopting web frameworks, leading to increased resource consumption and slower performance. Microsoft’s focus on cloud services and AI has influenced this shift, as has the demand for cross-platform solutions. Native apps are being overshadowed by web technologies, which often lack deep integration with Windows features. Performance trade-offs are significant, with web wrappers consuming more memory than native apps. The rise of progressive web apps (PWAs) and AI integration further complicates the landscape, suggesting a future where the definition of "native" may evolve. The tech community is divided on these changes, with some advocating for a balance between web and native solutions.

Winsage

November 26, 2025

Uninstalling apps on Windows 11 is about to get much easier — and it’s long overdue

Windows 11 will introduce a feature in the Microsoft Store that simplifies the uninstallation of applications, currently being tested by Windows Insiders. This feature allows users to remove Store-managed apps directly from the library page, while non-Insider users still lack this option. The Microsoft Store has evolved significantly since its launch, now supporting various app types, including Win32, UWP, PWA, .NET MAUI, and Electron apps. It has also attracted major developers like Adobe, Discord, Slack, and Spotify by allowing them to host their applications on their own servers. Additionally, Microsoft has reduced the entry fee for individual developers to join the Microsoft Store, making it more affordable compared to competitors like Google and Apple.