user experience Archives

Winsage

July 1, 2026

Microsoft fixes GIF functionality in the Windows Emoji Panel

Microsoft has restored GIF functionality in the Emoji Panel for Windows 11 users after the retirement of the Tenor GIF search engine's API, which caused disruptions starting June 30. The company has transitioned to GIPHY as the new GIF provider, implemented in the preview cumulative update KB5095093 released on June 23 for Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, and 26H1. Users are advised to install the latest updates to restore GIF functionality. Microsoft is also working on a solution for users on Windows 11 23H2 and Windows Server 2025. The KB5095093 update includes the Point-in-Time Restore feature and addresses various bugs and known issues.

Winsage

July 1, 2026

‘Pure old-school Windows’: Ex-Microsoft engineer shrinks down Notepad to 2.5 kilobytes with ‘no bloat, no telemetry, no nonsense’

A former Microsoft software engineer, Dave Plummer, has launched TinyRetroPad, a minimalist text editing application designed as an alternative to the increasingly complex Notepad. TinyRetroPad is a fork of Tiny Editor, which was based on Plummer's earlier project, HelloAssembly. The application aims to provide a simple and efficient user experience, reminiscent of earlier Windows versions, by utilizing existing Windows components to maintain a small footprint. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with Notepad's growing complexity, prompting a search for lightweight alternatives. TinyRetroPad offers a compact interface without unnecessary features or telemetry.

Winsage

July 1, 2026

Microsoft Boosts File Explorer Launch Speed in Windows 11

Microsoft has released the optional Windows 11 June update, KB5095093, which improves the performance of File Explorer by addressing launch speed and overall functionality. The update includes a redesign of the Home tab for better file indexing, new quick actions for file management, improved responsiveness when mounting disk images, and enhanced address bar functionality. This update will become mandatory by July 2026.

Winsage

July 1, 2026

🚨 Windows users, don’t let a $9.97 Pro upgrade pass you by

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, down from 9, as part of the Extended Deal Days event, valid until 11:59 p.m. PT today. Key features include BitLocker, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and Azure AD Support. User experience enhancements include Snap Layouts, Copilot, DirectX 12 Ultimate, and Biometric Sign-In. The purchase is a one-time fee, and users should verify compatibility with Microsoft's PC Health Check app.

AppWizard

July 1, 2026

Massive Samsung Galaxy Glasses leak gives sneak peek into manager app and gestures

A leak has revealed details about the Galaxy Glasses manager app, which will serve as the main hub for managing Samsung's upcoming smart glasses. The app will assist users in pairing the glasses, installing updates, and adjusting settings. It will feature menu options such as Camera, AI assistants, Read notifications aloud, Advanced features, Accessibility, and Find my glasses, with additional settings accessible only when connected to the glasses. Users can also automatically import photos and videos taken with the eyewear. The leak also describes intuitive buttons and gestures for user interaction with the Galaxy Glasses. Users can swipe to navigate music tracks and adjust volume, tap to pause or resume media playback, and use a button on the arm to capture photos or record videos. The glasses will have two LED lights to indicate recording status. Captured images and videos will be available in the Now Bar for previewing and reframing, with functionality expected to extend to the Galaxy Watch. Additionally, a Galaxy Glasses Controller app is in development for Galaxy Watches, and the upcoming Galaxy Ring will support gesture controls for enhanced user experience with the smart glasses.

Winsage

June 30, 2026

Microsoft is finally fixing the Windows 11 taskbar

Windows 11 is introducing a feature that allows users to resize the taskbar, available in the latest builds for Windows Insiders. The new Taskbar Size setting enables customization, allowing toggling between a standard and smaller taskbar, which can also utilize smaller icons. Enhancements have been made to thumbnail previews for cloud files in File Explorer, a OneDrive shortcut issue has been resolved, and system sounds have been improved for dark mode users. Additionally, the Xbox mode has been rebranded to XBOX mode as part of the Windows K2 initiative, which aims to improve performance, design, and reliability in Windows 11.

Winsage

June 30, 2026

Microsoft is finally fixing the Windows 11 taskbar

The latest updates for Windows 11, particularly for Windows Insiders, include a new option to resize the taskbar, allowing users to adjust its height and icon size. The "show smaller taskbar buttons" feature has been enhanced to include a "small" setting for the taskbar. Additionally, improvements have been made to File Explorer, including better reliability of thumbnail previews for cloud files, a fix for the OneDrive shortcut, and a correction for the confirmation dialog when deleting files. System sounds have also been improved for dark mode users. The Xbox mode has been rebranded to XBOX mode, and the Windows K2 initiative is focused on addressing various issues within Windows 11.

AppWizard

June 30, 2026

Samsung’s app for Android XR-powered Galaxy Glasses shows case, ‘One UI XR’ [Gallery]

Samsung's Galaxy Glasses are not set for imminent release, but recent leaks reveal details about their design and features. Screenshots from the companion app show a hardware design similar to Warby Parker glasses. The glasses will come with a carrying and charging case that has an external light indicator and uses contact-based charging. The companion app includes user management features, settings adjustments, and a software update section branded as “One UI XR.” There are indications of potential integration with the Galaxy Ring for gesture controls. Both Google and Samsung have confirmed the glasses will launch before the end of the year, but the exact date is still unknown.

AppWizard

June 30, 2026

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Monster’s Expedition, Cosmic Express, A Good Snowman, more

Today's highlights for Android app price drops include: - A Monster’s Expedition - Now available for free - Cosmic Express - Special pricing applied - A Good Snowman - Discounted for a limited time - Chicken Police – Paint it RED! - Price drop alert - Bloons TD 6 - Enjoy a reduced price - True Skate - Now at a promotional rate Additionally, the new Google Home Speaker is available at 50% off, and Lenovo's Snapdragon Yoga Slim 7x 2K OLED touchscreen Copilot+ is priced 0 lower than usual.

Winsage

June 30, 2026

Steve Ballmer once called Linux a “cancer” — it’s funny Windows 10 holdouts may now see it as the cure for Windows 11’s hardware rules and the RAM crisis

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer initially described Linux as a "cancer" in 2001 but changed his perspective by 2016, supporting Microsoft's decision to port SQL Server to Linux. Microsoft President Brad Smith acknowledged the company's past underestimation of the open-source movement in 2020. Microsoft has integrated open-source solutions into its products, including PowerShell and Visual Studio Code, and launched Azure Linux 4.0. As Microsoft phases out support for Windows 10, critics argue this leads to programmed obsolescence, affecting up to 400 million PCs. Microsoft extended support for Windows 10 through its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program until October 14, 2026, with an additional extension through 2027. Rising hardware costs and stringent requirements for Windows 11 hinder many users' transitions. Advocacy groups are encouraging users to consider Linux, highlighting its advantages. Recent surveys show that 30% of HP PCs still run Windows 10, and a poll indicated that 68% of participants plan to stay with Windows 10 through 2027. There is a growing awareness among consumers regarding the potential shift to open-source alternatives like Linux.