UI Archives

Winsage

June 6, 2025

Why I Use simplewall Instead of Windows Firewall (And You Should Too)

Simplewall is a rule-based firewall controller for Windows that enhances the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) without replacing it. It allows users to manage network access for applications and services with a user-friendly interface, supporting advanced features like filtering rules by IP, port, or protocol. Users can create tailored profiles for different scenarios and have comprehensive control over network interactions, including blocking telemetry data and automatic updates. Simplewall is lightweight, portable, and operates without background processes or telemetry, ensuring a straightforward user experience. Setting up simplewall involves downloading it, extracting the files, and enabling filters, allowing users to establish a functional firewall profile quickly. While it offers many advantages, such as being open-source and compatible with older Windows versions, it may be overwhelming for beginners and lacks detailed app profiling compared to premium firewalls.

AppWizard

June 6, 2025

Activision says COD microtransaction ads were accidental test

Activision clarified that the microtransactions in the Loadout menus of Black Ops 6 and Warzone were not intended for public release and were part of an internal test that accidentally went live during the Season 04 update. The company stated that this UI feature test, which revealed select store content, was published in error and has since been removed from the live game.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

Google Unveils Gemini Nano for On-Device AI in Android Apps

Google has updated the Gemini Nano APIs through the ML Kit, introducing new GenAI APIs that allow developers to perform on-device inference for generative AI capabilities in Android applications. These APIs enhance user privacy by executing all operations locally, eliminating cloud processing costs. Features include summarization of articles up to 3,000 words, proofreading for grammatical accuracy, rewriting text in various tones, and generating image descriptions. The GenAI APIs are optimized for Android devices using MediaTek Dimensity, Qualcomm Snapdragon, and Google Tensor platforms, including the Pixel 9 series and Samsung Galaxy S25. They operate without internet connectivity, ensuring rapid response times and improved performance for tasks like summarization and proofreading. The local processing also enhances privacy and security, protecting sensitive user information with safety protocols.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

‘Why are they so greedy’: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 players are in disbelief to find bundle ads but Activision claims it’s simply a ‘UI feature test’ that was published ‘in error’

A player of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 discovered embedded bundle advertisements in the weapon select menu, leading to frustration among the gaming community. Activision removed the ads, stating they were an oversight and part of a test that unintentionally went live. This incident sparked outrage, with players expressing dissatisfaction over rising costs and unresolved bugs in the game. The controversy reflects ongoing concerns about Activision's monetization strategies, including a costly Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles crossover and overpriced Squid Game skins, raising questions about the balance between gameplay and corporate profit motives.

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Microsoft adds quick machine recovery to Windows 11 settings

Microsoft is piloting a new dedicated page within Windows Settings under System > Recovery to enhance machine recovery processes. This feature allows users to toggle recovery options, configure automatic solution searches, set check frequencies, and determine restart timings for fixes. It is currently available to Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel using Windows 11 24H2 and will soon be accessible to Dev Channel Insiders. Quick Machine Recovery (QMR), introduced as part of the Windows Resiliency Initiative in November, allows IT administrators to address boot issues remotely. When activated, QMR boots devices into the Windows Recovery Environment to initiate the Quick Machine Recovery Tool if Windows fails to start. Microsoft plans to enable QMR by default in Windows 11 Home editions, while enterprise customers can customize it in Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise.

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

I created a Samsung Routine to fix the Google Play Store’s biggest failure

Trust in the Google Play Store's ability to update Android apps has decreased among users due to inconsistent update frequencies. Samsung phone users can utilize the Modes and Routines feature to automate app updates. To set this up, users need to download the Good Lock app and its Routines+ module, then create a routine that records actions in the Play Store to update apps automatically. Users can specify a trigger time for the routine to run daily. While effective, users should monitor the routine's performance and adjust as needed, as it may not always function perfectly.

Winsage

June 3, 2025

Windows 11 news and updates: Sora video AI comes to Bing while USB-C changes will make all of our lives easier

Microsoft has made adjustments to Windows 11 and Windows 10 to comply with the Digital Markets Act for users in the European Economic Area, including stopping prompts to set Edge as the default browser and automatically pinning users' preferred browsers to the Taskbar. The optional update KB5058499 (OS Build 26100.4202) for Windows 11, released on May 28, 2025, improves gaming stability and includes upgrades to AI tools. OpenAI's Sora AI model is now available globally in the Bing Video Creator within the Bing mobile app. Notepad has added support for Markdown syntax. Microsoft has committed that all USB-C ports on Windows 11 will support data, charging, and display functionalities, with USB4 ports being compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB4 peripherals. The release date for Windows 11 version 25H2 is anticipated between September and October 2025.

AppWizard

June 2, 2025

Here’s a better look at Gmail’s Material 3 Expressive makeover, rolling out to some users

Google has begun rolling out its Gmail app's Material 3 Expressive redesign through a server-side switch, allowing select users to experience the new design ahead of a broader release later this year. The update, Gmail app v2025.05.11, features a vibrant color palette and a card-based user interface with a lighter background for the message list, rounded corners, and a more visible Compose button. The account switcher has been repositioned outside the search bar for improved navigation. The email screen's card-based UI has been refined, with a full-width order summary snippet and lighter colors. A new pill-shaped button animation for swipe gestures has also been introduced. Users can expect to see these design elements on their devices soon.

BetaBeacon

May 29, 2025

Samsung prepares Game Booster for One UI 8 with huge feature-packed update

The Game Booster app has a new feature called "Max boost" that adjusts settings for maximum performance during gaming.

Winsage

May 29, 2025

Microsoft is ruining Windows customization

Customizing a Windows PC has become increasingly complex and frustrating due to several factors. Microsoft has introduced more locked-down UI elements with Windows 10 and 11, which complicates the customization process. Frequent and substantial updates alter UI elements and introduce new features, creating challenges for developers of customization tools to maintain compatibility. Microsoft has also removed certain legacy features that facilitated customization, limiting the capabilities of these applications. Additionally, some customization apps are labeled as malware, discouraging users from installing them and hindering the customization ecosystem. As a result, many users feel that the joy of customizing their Windows experience has diminished, as streamlined interfaces lack the flair and personality of earlier versions.