user-friendly experience Archives

Winsage

May 1, 2025

3 reasons I prefer managing packages with WinGet over Chocolatey now

Package managers streamline software installation and management on PCs, with WinGet being Microsoft's user-friendly solution for Windows 11. Unlike Chocolatey, which requires complex setup, WinGet is ready to use out of the box after accepting license terms. It integrates with PowerToys, allowing users to execute commands via the Command Palette without opening a Terminal. Additionally, WinGet manages applications from the Microsoft Store, providing a comprehensive experience that can yield more relevant search results. While Chocolatey has a larger repository and advanced features for professionals, WinGet is more accessible for average users.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

4 Windows versions Windows 12 should shamelessly imitate

Windows 12 is speculated to potentially launch in two to three years, following the end of support for Windows 10. It may draw inspiration from previous successful versions like Windows XP, Windows 7, and Windows 10, focusing on user customization, performance, and reducing bloatware. Windows 11, launched six years after Windows 10, introduced a new visual style and features but faced criticism over hardware requirements. Windows 12 is expected to build on Windows 11's foundation with incremental improvements and enhanced support for ARM processors.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

Millions of Android apps have disappeared from the Play Store this year, and for good reason

The Google Play Store's app count has decreased from approximately 3.4 million in early 2024 to around 1.8 million today, a 47% decline. This reduction is attributed to stricter quality control measures implemented by Google in July 2024, which targeted malfunctioning apps and those with limited functionality. Google reported blocking 2.36 million apps for policy violations and banning over 158,000 developer accounts linked to harmful activities. In contrast, the Apple App Store's app count rose from 1.6 million to 1.64 million during the same period. Additionally, a new EU regulation requires developers to disclose their names and addresses in app listings, with non-compliance risking delisting from EU markets. Despite the decline, 10,400 new applications were launched on the Play Store this year, indicating a 7.1% increase compared to last year.

AppWizard

April 15, 2025

My 5 favorite AI apps on Android right now – and how I use them

AI has integrated into daily life, especially for Android users due to Google's embedding of AI capabilities in the operating system. Key AI apps for Android include: 1. Google Gemini: The default AI app that enhances user experience without installation. It features Gemini Live for complex queries and can be used as a handy assistant. 2. Perplexity: An AI-driven query app with an intuitive interface for news summaries and organizing queries. It is free and serves as a default search engine for some users. 3. DeepSeek: An AI development firm from China offering two apps on Google Play: Deep Think (AI chatbot) and DeepSeek (AI assistant), which handles deep queries and basic searches. It is free but requires account registration. 4. Microsoft Copilot: A versatile AI tool for standard queries, drafting, and image creation. It summarizes news and requires a Microsoft account for access. 5. Opera's Aria: An AI tool integrated into the Opera browser, offering standard query capabilities and voice-to-text functionality. It requires installation but is free to use without a subscription.

Winsage

April 6, 2025

5 best dual-pane file managers for Windows power users

The default Windows File Explorer lacks multi-pane support, making file management cumbersome for users who frequently transfer files between folders or manage multiple drives. Dual-pane or multi-pane third-party file managers offer solutions by allowing users to view and manage multiple folders side by side within a single window. Total Commander is a veteran dual-pane file manager with built-in FTP support, fast file transfers, and comprehensive archive handling. Directory Opus is a premium file management solution with a dual-pane layout, tabbed navigation, and features like batch file operations and scripting capabilities. FreeCommander XE is a free dual-pane file manager that offers essential features such as tabbed browsing and folder synchronization. XYplorer is a portable dual-pane file manager designed for speed, featuring tabbed browsing and powerful search functions. Q-Dir, or Quad-Directory Explorer, allows for up to four panes in a single window and supports drag-and-drop functionality and color filters.

AppWizard

April 4, 2025

Intel Unison, a powerful free app bridging Android phones and PCs, is shutting down

Intel Unison will cease operations on June 30, 2025. The app has been recognized for transforming Android tablets into external displays and allowing users to make calls, send texts, and transfer files from Windows PCs. While some features can be replicated with Microsoft Phone Link, many users prefer Intel Unison for its comprehensive experience. Lenovo Aura platforms will continue to support Intel Unison until the end of 2025. The app requires Windows 11 machines with at least version 22H2 and a minimum of a 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, but it is also compatible with non-Intel machines. Certain Intel Evo 13th-generation and later devices came pre-installed with Intel Unison. Users will need to switch to Microsoft Phone Link for connectivity between Android devices and Windows PCs after the discontinuation.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

How to change to a vertical scrolling app drawer on One UI 7

Samsung has introduced a vertical scrolling app drawer in One UI 7, responding to user demand. This update is available for the Galaxy S25 series and for users who upgrade to One UI 7. The rollout for older devices has faced delays, with beta versions currently available for Galaxy S24 owners and a final build expected in early April. New features in One UI 7 include the Now Bar, which provides real-time updates, and Now Brief, offering personalized briefings. Other features include cross-app action, audio eraser, auto trim, and AI drawing assist. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a larger display, improved ultrawide camera, and lighter design compared to its predecessor.

Winsage

March 31, 2025

Microsoft’s iconic Blue Screen of Death might change, and its replacement looks even more depressing

Microsoft has redesigned the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), which has been part of the Windows operating system since 1990. The new version features a black screen instead of the traditional blue, with a simplified message stating, "Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart." This update is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders, and during testing phases, the screen will appear green. The redesign aims to create a more user-friendly experience, but some users find it more intimidating and confusing due to its resemblance to the Windows update screen. The updated BSOD is available to users running the 24H2 version or newer, with plans for a broader release in the coming weeks.

AppWizard

March 27, 2025

Keeper Security Unveils Latest WearOS App for Seamless Password Management

Keeper Security has launched an updated version of its WearOS app for Android, enhancing security and user experience for smartwatch users. The app, formerly known as KeeperDNA, features a redesigned interface, instant access to credentials and 2FA codes, and a "Watch Favorites" option for quick access to frequently used logins. Improvements to offline functionality include a simplified account setup, enhanced offline mode with configurable vault access durations, and decoupled offline mode and 2FA settings. The updated app is available for download on the Google Play Store and maintains zero-knowledge encryption for user data security.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

Google Maps might predict more than just the traffic for you soon

Google Maps is testing new features that will enhance user experience by providing real-time updates on parking availability, fuel-efficient routes, and estimated time of arrival (ETA) directly from the initial overview screen after entering a destination. Currently, users can only see traffic conditions, distance, and travel time. The new features will allow users to view parking availability marked by a "P" icon, fuel-efficient route options, and precise ETA. These enhancements aim to improve trip planning and are expected to be included in future app updates. Additionally, some users have reported issues with their Timeline history disappearing from the web version, possibly due to a shift in how Google stores location history.