templates Archives

AppWizard

July 15, 2025

I was wrong about Obsidian: Here’s why it’s actually a powerful app

Obsidian has evolved from a frustrating app to a vital organizational tool for the user. Initially, the app's complexity and unstructured layout were overwhelming compared to alternatives like Google Keep and Notion. The user struggled with its numerous plugins and customization options, which made note-taking chaotic. However, after adopting a minimalist approach by simplifying the setup and using Obsidian's official sync service, the user discovered its potential. Obsidian's strengths include local storage of notes, a straightforward folder and tagging system, and a web clipper extension for capturing information. Despite its steep learning curve, Obsidian has become an effective tool for organizing thoughts and capturing notes.

Winsage

July 9, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 adds tool to debloat the OS and remove built-in apps

Windows 11 version 25H2 introduces a feature called Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages, allowing users, particularly IT administrators, to remove preinstalled Microsoft applications such as Camera, Sound Recorder, Windows Media Player, Xbox, Windows Terminal, and Notepad. This feature is accessible under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment and simplifies the uninstallation process compared to previous methods like PowerShell. Users may still see non-functional shortcuts in the Start menu after removal. The first preview build of version 25H2 was released recently, and a public release is expected later this year. Similar uninstall features will also be available in version 24H2, though disabled by default. Windows 11 has recently surpassed Windows 10 in user base, partly due to the upcoming end of Windows 10 support.

Winsage

July 8, 2025

Microsoft Edge UI Now 40% Faster on Average, Key UI Elements Load Up to 4x Quicker

Microsoft has updated its Edge browser, achieving a First Contentful Paint (FCP) of under 300 milliseconds by using its WebUI 2.0 architecture instead of the traditional React framework, resulting in a 40% average reduction in load times for thirteen core features. The updated settings UI shows a fourfold improvement in performance compared to the previous version. This release builds on enhancements from May 2024, which improved launch times by 42-76%, and an optimization effort in February 2025 that targeted fourteen interface subsystems. Internal tests confirm the settings panel now consistently renders in under 300 ms. Microsoft plans to extend these performance improvements to Print Preview and Extensions management throughout 2025.

Winsage

July 7, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 has a new option to remove all unwanted Microsoft apps

The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update will introduce a new policy called the Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages, which allows users to remove unwanted Microsoft applications in a single action through Group Policy. This feature aims to simplify the process of debloating Windows 11, which has historically been cumbersome. Users can find this setting under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment. The policy currently supports the removal of various Microsoft applications but does not extend to third-party software. While initial tests show the policy functions as intended, further refinement is needed to address issues like orphaned shortcuts. This feature will not be available to Windows 11 Home users.

AppWizard

July 7, 2025

Minecraft Bedrock 1.21.93 Hotfix Adds Chicken Jockey Music Disc and Key Fixes

Minecraft Bedrock has released version 1.21.93, introducing a new music disc titled Chicken Jockey, inspired by A Minecraft Movie. The update includes several bug fixes and improvements: - Resolved a bug with disappearing packs in world templates. - Enhanced split-screen access for older worlds on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. - Upgraded graphics for torches and lanterns in the Vibrant Visuals setting, and adjusted bright text on signs to reduce excessive shine. - Fixed lag issues caused by a Happy Ghast being leashed too close to the ground. - Improved camera movement for mobile players using touch controls. To acquire the Chicken Jockey music disc, players must defeat a Chicken Jockey, which consists of a baby Zombie riding a Chicken, after which the disc will drop for use in a jukebox.

AppWizard

July 4, 2025

Minecraft Update 3.15 Slots in Bedrock 1.21.93

Mojang has released a new patch for Minecraft, identified as update 3.15/1.023.000 (Bedrock version 1.21.93), which addresses various issues from the Chase the Skies update. Key features include: - Bug fixes for world template packs, graphical enhancements, and mob behaviors. - Resolved an issue causing packs in world templates to vanish (MCPE-222906). - Introduced a new music disc titled “Lava Chicken” obtainable by defeating a baby Zombie riding a Chicken. - Split-screen players on PlayStation and Switch can now access player data from version 1.21.80 and earlier (MCPE-222048). - Reduced emissive intensity of certain light sources in Vibrant Visuals (MCPE-222020). - Fixed animation issues related to parent_setup. - Glowing text on Signs no longer appears excessively bright in Vibrant Visuals. - Addressed performance issues with a Happy Ghast when leashed (MCPE-222147). - Air friction is now applied only to Boats when leashed (MCPE-222298), allowing them to maintain momentum off ledges. - Fixed a camera movement issue on touch devices (MCPE-220353). - Introduced a new API condition passengerofentity for developers to check vehicle entity types and a condition is_baby to check if the entity dropping loot is a baby.

AppWizard

June 30, 2025

Great moments in PC gaming: When the party in a tactics RPG start to really feel like your guys

Turn-based combat in RPGs is characterized by strategic depth, particularly in managing character positioning on the battlefield. This gameplay element allows for tactical maneuvers such as flanking bonuses and area-of-effect attacks, enhancing the experience beyond mere actions. Real-time-with-pause mechanics do not replicate the satisfaction of physically moving pieces, reminiscent of tabletop games. A strong sense of ownership over characters is also crucial, with customization options fostering a deeper connection. Games like Divinity: Original Sin 2 allow for character respec and renaming, further personalizing the player's experience. The relationship between the player and their party is complex, combining affection with a sense of control.

Tech Optimizer

June 24, 2025

Why Every File Demands Sanitization

Zero Trust addresses the issue of misplaced trust in cybersecurity, particularly the assumption that files from known senders are safe. This assumption can lead to security breaches, as malware can be hidden in documents from internal employees, vendors, or customers. Familiar interactions often bypass essential security checks, creating vulnerabilities. Security tools may fail to detect modern threats, which can evade traditional defenses. Compromised accounts and infected devices can introduce risks regardless of the sender's identity. To mitigate these risks, Votiro's solution cleanses every file using Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) technology, removing harmful elements while maintaining functionality. Votiro's approach ensures that file security does not disrupt business operations, providing a seamless and efficient solution for organizations.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2025

Databricks rolls out Lakebase Postgres and Agent Bricks for AI-era apps

Databricks has introduced the Lakebase Postgres database layer to enhance its lakehouse architecture, facilitating AI applications and analytics on operational data. The company also launched Agent Bricks to simplify the development of automated AI agents. During the Data + AI Summit, CEO Ali Ghodsi emphasized the importance of transitioning from outdated systems to modern solutions for AI. Lakebase, powered by Neon technology, is a fully managed, Postgres-compatible database that supports data loading from over 300 sources. Databricks aims to unify operational and analytical systems for real-time decision-making. The summit outlined a three-chapter framework: establishing the lakehouse, integrating AI, and introducing Lakebase. Agent Bricks enables business users to create AI agents without extensive technical knowledge, while Managed Iceberg Tables support external engines and promise performance optimizations. Databricks announced partnerships with Microsoft and Google Cloud for deeper integration and AI model usage. The company is investing 0 million in AI education and plans to release Lakeflow Designer for no-code ETL capabilities. Databricks anticipates reaching .7 billion in annualized revenue by July, with a growth rate of 50 percent and plans to hire 3,000 employees in 2025. Lakebase is currently in Public Preview.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

This free to-do list app keeps me organized and sane

Megan Ellis discovered TickTick in 2018 and found it to be an indispensable productivity tool, particularly due to its user-friendly interface and simplicity, which is important for users with ADHD. TickTick allows users to start adding tasks immediately without account creation and offers flexibility in organizing tasks into separate lists. The app's notification system keeps tasks visible without overwhelming the user, and the snooze feature helps manage time effectively by allowing users to delay tasks. Ellis has chosen not to subscribe to TickTick's premium plan, believing the free version meets her needs, although the premium offers additional features for a competitive annual cost. She acknowledges alternatives like Todoist, Google Tasks, Microsoft To Do, Any.do, and ClickUp, but still considers TickTick the most comprehensive solution for her task management.