user accessibility

AppWizard
July 23, 2025
Samsung's Now Bar feature, initially introduced with the Galaxy S25 series, has expanded to the cover screen of the Galaxy Z Flip with the One UI 8 update. As of June 2025, it supports approximately 20 applications, including those from Samsung, Google, and third-party developers, with plans to increase this number to 35 by the end of 2025. The expansion is enabled by a new API in One UI 8 based on Android 16, allowing applications to create “Live Notifications.” Current compatible applications include various Samsung apps (e.g., Media Player, Notes, SmartThings TV Remote), Google apps (e.g., Google Maps), and third-party apps (e.g., Uber, Waymo). Samsung's documentation lists 19 specific applications but suggests a 20th app is forthcoming.
AppWizard
July 21, 2025
The Gemini overlay on Android has been updated to include a new shortcut that allows users to quickly open the full Gemini app via a drag handle at the top of the overlay. This feature provides access to chat history, Gems, and settings. The updated prompt bar offers seamless access to features like Video, Deep Research, and Canvas chips, while the design of the 'plus' menu has been refreshed. The overlay shortcut is being rolled out with versions 16.27 (stable) and 16.28 (beta) of the Google app, and users may need to force stop the app to activate it. Additionally, the overlay now supports right-alignment on tablets and foldables.
Winsage
May 24, 2025
Notepad will soon include generative AI capabilities powered by Copilot, allowing users to assist in text creation by right-clicking and inputting instructions. This feature will be available only to Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro subscribers. Paint will enable users to create custom stickers through prompts, but this feature will only be available on devices with Copilot Plus. The Snipping Tool will introduce a "perfect screenshot" capability accessible to all users, eliminating the need for manual cropping or resizing.
AppWizard
May 17, 2025
Chrome for Android is set to introduce an automatic detection and filling feature for SMS-based two-factor authentication codes, aimed at streamlining the user experience. This feature is currently available in the "Canary version" of Chrome but has not yet been activated for all users. Additionally, Google has released Gemini-powered accessibility updates, including expressive captions and an optical character recognition tool for screen readers.
Winsage
May 14, 2025
Microsoft is testing a revamped Start menu for Windows 11, which retains familiar elements but offers reorganization and customization options. The redesign process included concepts that were ultimately discarded, such as a Windows XP-inspired sidebar, a full-screen Start experience from Windows 8, and various layouts emphasizing different functionalities. Ideas included an abundance of icons, thumbnail previews for recently opened files, a dedicated area for calendar reminders, and a "create" button suggesting generative AI capabilities. Microsoft engaged over 300 Windows 11 enthusiasts for feedback to inform the redesign, aiming to enhance user experience while maintaining familiarity.
Winsage
May 12, 2025
Microsoft is testing a revamped "Advanced Settings" page for its Windows Server operating system, which will replace the previous "For Developers" page. This new page aims to improve user accessibility by including features beneficial to a wider audience, such as the "End Task" option. It introduces a "long path" setting that removes the 260-character limitation on file paths, helping users avoid the "Path too long" error. The changes are currently exclusive to Windows Server but may extend to Windows 11 within the calendar year.
AppWizard
May 5, 2025
The Gemini app has introduced a new Android homescreen widget that is now widely available to users. The widget is highly resizable, incorporates Dynamic Color, and resembles the revamped widgets of Google Keep and Drive. It features a sparkle icon that launches the app and keyboard, and includes buttons arranged within a rounded rectangle, with a Gemini Live shortcut. Users can expand the widget to access additional functionalities like speech-to-text and the Gemini camera, and it can be configured in various layouts, including a search bar and a grid of shortcuts. The widget is part of Gemini app version 1.0.751104895 and is compatible with Android 10 and newer versions. Users can add it to their homescreen by updating the app and selecting Widgets.
Winsage
April 29, 2025
Microsoft's Windows operating system has approximately 1.5 billion users globally, but faces stagnation as many users find Windows 10 satisfactory and are reluctant to upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft is pushing Windows 11 aggressively, incorporating AI features and nudging users toward paid services, which raises concerns about user experience. The company is uncertain about its future direction, with Project Hudson Valley fading away and the potential for a subscription-based licensing model. In corporate environments, IT departments often prioritize compliance over user needs, leaving employees with limited choices. Some users are exploring alternatives like macOS or Linux, seeking better alignment with their values. Resources are available to help users transition gradually from Windows 10 to alternatives, and maintaining a dual-system approach can ease this process.
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