user accessibility Archives

Winsage

December 1, 2025

Microsoft confirms KB5064081 update hides Windows 11 lock screen password icon

Microsoft has acknowledged that a recent update, KB5064081, has inadvertently concealed the password sign-in option from the lock screen in Windows 11, affecting some users. The update was released at the end of August 2025, and while not all users are impacted, it has raised concerns about accessibility. The password icon is not visible when multiple sign-in options are enabled, but users can still log in by hovering over the area where the icon should appear. Microsoft has not provided a fix or timeline for resolution.

Winsage

October 27, 2025

6 exciting and niche OS projects that are quietly growing as users leave Windows

More individuals are dissatisfied with Windows due to updates, telemetry, and restrictive design choices, especially with the end of life for Windows 10 approaching. This has led to a subtle migration towards niche operating systems. Zorin OS is a user-friendly Linux distribution designed for newcomers, featuring a familiar interface that mimics Windows and macOS, and is powered by Ubuntu for stability. It includes Zorin Connect for synchronizing notifications and emphasizes security and privacy. Haiku is a lightweight operating system that serves as a successor to BeOS, focusing on speed and simplicity, built entirely from scratch for a snappy user experience. SerenityOS is an independent project created from the ground up, featuring a nostalgic aesthetic and a complete desktop environment, with a focus on usability and craftsmanship. Ultramarine Linux is a Fedora-based distribution that simplifies open-source software for users, offering multimedia codecs and multiple desktop environments for a comprehensive experience. Vanilla OS introduces a modern approach to Linux with immutability, protecting core system files and allowing independent application management to enhance stability. ReactOS aims to recreate the Windows experience using open-source code, focusing on compatibility with Windows applications and drivers while fostering a community around its development.

Winsage

September 17, 2025

Microsoft rolls out Copilot Chat to Microsoft 365 Office apps

Microsoft is introducing Copilot Chat to its applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and OneNote, for paying Microsoft 365 business customers. Copilot Chat is an AI-driven chat solution that provides web-based insights, unlike its predecessor, which accessed organizational content. It is available at no additional cost for users with Entra accounts holding specific Microsoft 365 licenses. Users can access Copilot Chat in a side pane, allowing for seamless interaction while working on documents. A Microsoft 365 Copilot license enables access to all work data, enhancing the functionality of Copilot Chat. Microsoft plans to automatically install the Microsoft 365 Copilot app on Windows devices outside the EEA region starting next month, with IT administrators able to opt out. Additionally, Microsoft will integrate Copilot agents into the Edge sidebar in late September 2025.

Winsage

August 29, 2025

Windows is getting a better em dash keyboard shortcut.

Microsoft is enhancing the keyboard experience for Windows users by introducing a new, simplified shortcut for inserting em dashes and en dashes in Windows 11. Previously, users used Alt+0151 for an em dash (—) and Alt+0150 for an en dash (–). The update is expected to roll out to all Windows 11 users later this year.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Google’s Critical Tool Gets an App—Android Users Should Download It

Google Password Manager has launched a dedicated app for managing saved credentials, enhancing user accessibility without navigating complex settings. The app is compatible with the Pixel 10 lineup and offers a user-friendly interface with three main tabs: Passwords, Checkup, and Settings. It includes features like alerts for apps and websites supporting passkeys and maintains strong security with end-to-end encryption. The app is currently in the initial rollout phase and is available for both phones and tablets on Android.

AppWizard

July 23, 2025

Samsung plans to make Now Bar more useful by nearly doubling app support

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

Gemini overlay brings back shortcut to open full app on Android

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

Note, Paint and Snip With AI: Microsoft Adds New Features, but Not for Everyone

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 23, 2025

No tracking, no invasive ads – these 5 Android mobile apps are the best for protecting your digital privacy in 2025

Smartphones collect a vast amount of personal information, prompting a movement toward applications that enhance digital privacy. Various security apps are available to protect user data and provide features like emergency alerts and location sharing, especially benefiting vulnerable populations. Notable applications include: - NextCloud: A personal cloud server that enhances privacy with tools for file exploration, chat, and office alternatives. - Obtainium: An app store that simplifies using applications outside of Google Play and keeps them updated. - AnySoftKeyboard: A keyboard app with an incognito mode that does not collect typing data while offering word recommendations. - Aves: A photo management app that analyzes metadata and supports panoramic photos and 360-degree videos. - Accrescent: A new alternative app store focused on user privacy and security, currently in its alpha phase.

AppWizard

May 17, 2025

Chrome for Android could be getting a major time-saving upgrade to make verification even easier

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.