third-party application Archives

Winsage

January 20, 2026

After setting up Windows 11, these 9 steps are non-negotiable for me

Setting up a new Windows 11 PC involves several essential tasks to enhance user experience. Users can choose between a Microsoft account or a local account, with the former offering benefits like two-factor authentication, strong encryption, and access to Microsoft 365 services. Before customizing, it's important to verify the Windows edition and activation status, check for driver issues in Device Manager, install the latest updates, and consult the manufacturer’s site for driver updates. Users can remove third-party application shortcuts from the Start menu, which features a simplified design with pinned icons and a Recommended section. The taskbar can be streamlined by disabling unnecessary features. Popular applications can be installed via the Microsoft Store or using command-line tools like Winget. Windows Sandbox provides a secure environment for testing risky applications or websites.

Winsage

January 7, 2026

Use Patch My PC Home Updater to Update Windows Apps Automatically

Patch My PC Home Updater is a tool designed for Windows 11 PCs that manages third-party application updates automatically. It scans installed applications, identifies outdated ones, and facilitates updates from a single interface without requiring sign-up or advertisements. The tool supports over 500 common applications and uses color coding to indicate app status. It pulls updates from official sources and verifies them with VirusTotal for security. Features include silent mode for background updates, scheduling for automatic updates, and basic app management capabilities such as installing new applications and bulk uninstalling programs. The updater enhances security by swiftly patching vulnerabilities and integrates with Windows Defender for comprehensive protection. Users can easily set up the tool, automate updates, and customize settings as needed.

Winsage

November 11, 2025

1Password can now save passkeys directly in Windows 11

A new Windows API allows third-party applications to manage passkeys more effectively, with 1Password being the first password manager to adopt this innovation. The integration enables 1Password to act as the credential manager on Windows 11, allowing users to create and manage passkeys easily while using Windows Hello for authentication. This feature is available to anyone running the latest version of Windows 11 and the newly released MSIX version of the 1Password app. Users can enable the passkey feature through the 1Password application or manually in Windows settings. Once configured, Windows will use the selected credential manager instead of its default settings. Other password managers like Bitwarden and Dashlane may follow with similar support. Passkeys serve as a convenient alternative to traditional username and password combinations but do not replace existing credentials.

Winsage

October 6, 2025

4 Windows Explorer add-ons that made me forget about replacing it

Windows File Explorer has limitations such as slow search capabilities and challenges with batch renaming files. Specialized add-ons can enhance its functionality. Notable add-ons include: - Peek: Allows users to preview file contents quickly by selecting a file and pressing CTRL + Spacebar. - PowerRename: Enhances batch renaming with a dialog box for finding and replacing text across multiple files, displaying a preview of new names before changes. - TeraCopy: Speeds up file transfers, allows pausing and resuming, skips corrupted files, and verifies that copied files match originals. - Listary: Improves file searching within File Explorer, providing instant results and a command bar for running applications and executing commands. - DropIt: Automates file organization through drag-and-drop by setting up rules for sorting files into designated folders and performing actions like zipping or renaming. These add-ons can improve productivity without needing to abandon File Explorer.

Winsage

September 22, 2025

Windows 11 is getting a video wallpaper feature

Microsoft is reintroducing the DreamScene feature in the latest builds of Windows 11, allowing users to set video wallpapers using video files such as MP4 or MKV. This feature was previously available in Windows Vista and has been requested by the Windows community. DreamScene will enable videos to play seamlessly on the desktop, similar to the third-party application Wallpaper Engine, which is popular among users. Microsoft initially supported video wallpapers in Windows Vista's Ultimate version but discontinued it with Windows 7. The company has been experimenting with dynamic animated wallpapers for Windows 11, although these did not launch in the final release version of the operating system. The return of DreamScene may reduce the need for third-party solutions like Wallpaper Engine.

Winsage

September 22, 2025

Hands on with Windows 11’s new “video wallpaper” feature, supports .mp4 as desktop background

Windows 11 will soon allow users to set videos, including formats like .mp4, as desktop backgrounds in the upcoming 24H2 or 25H2 updates. The feature will enable videos to play automatically in a loop and is inspired by the third-party application WallpaperEngine. It is linked to forthcoming optional updates and may be available by October for users running Windows 11 Build 26220 or newer. To set a video as a background, users will go to Settings > Personalization > Background. Supported file formats include .mp4, .m4v, .mov, .wmv, .avi, .mkv, and .webm. The feature is reminiscent of the "DreamScene" functionality from Windows Vista and is designed to be non-interactive, potentially reducing power and resource consumption.

Winsage

September 5, 2025

Do these 6 things instead of using a “light” Windows build

Windows 11 has been criticized for bloat and unnecessary features that can hinder performance. Users can improve their experience by uninstalling unused applications, disabling unnecessary startup apps, turning off Windows Search and other services, using debloating programs, or considering Atlas OS for a more extensive debloating solution. Alternatives like Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu, Linux Mint) are also available for those seeking less bloated operating systems.

AppWizard

August 18, 2025

Amazon Appstore Shutdown: Android Users Must Delete Apps Within 48 Hours

Effective August 20, 2025, the Amazon Appstore will cease to support Android devices, ending over fifteen years of service. Users are advised to uninstall all apps downloaded via the Amazon Appstore to mitigate security risks, as these apps will no longer receive updates or security patches. Users should transition to alternatives in the Google Play Store, which offers built-in security features. Additionally, Amazon Coins will also be discontinued on the same date, with unclear details on refunds for remaining balances. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the urgency of this transition to avoid potential threats from outdated applications.

AppWizard

August 7, 2025

3 Ways To Clear The Cache On Your Android Phone

Android users can optimize their devices by clearing the cache, which can be done in several ways. To clear the cache of individual apps, go to Settings, select Apps, choose the specific app, and then go to Storage to find the option to clear the cache. Alternatively, users can use a third-party app like 1Tap Cleaner from the Google Play Store, which offers various cleaning options and insights into cache usage. To clear the internet cache, open the browser, access the mini menu by tapping the three dots or bars, and navigate to the History section to find options for clearing browsing history. Users may have the choice to delete data from the last day or all time, with the latter being more effective. Additionally, clearing cookies and cached images is recommended for optimal performance. Regularly clearing cache from apps, the system, and the internet can help free up space and enhance device performance.

AppWizard

June 2, 2025

Vulnerabilities in Preinstalled Android Apps Expose PIN Codes and Allow Command Injection

Significant vulnerabilities have been identified in pre-installed applications on Ulefone and Krüger&Matz Android smartphones, disclosed on May 30, 2025. Three vulnerabilities affect these devices, including CVE-2024-13915, which targets the com.pri.factorytest application, allowing unauthorized factory resets. CVE-2024-13916 and CVE-2024-13917 affect the com.pri.applock application on Krüger&Matz smartphones, enabling malicious apps to extract user PIN codes and inject arbitrary intents. These vulnerabilities stem from improper export of Android application components, allowing malicious applications to bypass Android’s permission model. Users are advised to check for updates and consider disabling vulnerable applications.