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Create My Widget: Google's AI app for custom Android widgets is available on the Play Store
AppWizard
September 28, 2026

Create My Widget: Google’s AI app for custom Android widgets is available on the Play Store

Google has launched a new application called "Create My Widget," available on the Play Store since September 24, 2026. This app allows users to create Android widgets using plain language instead of pre-defined templates. It is currently compatible with Pixel and recent Galaxy smartphones, with plans for broader compatibility in the future. The app uses Gemini technology to generate widgets based on user descriptions and aggregates information from various Google services. The widget creation process involves describing the desired widget, receiving suggestions from Gemini, and customizing the widget before placing it on the home screen. The app currently supports categories such as Combo, Weather Alerts, World Clock, Daily Overview, Important Appointments, and Markets, with future updates expected to include additional categories. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 has been reported as incompatible, and a version for Google's upcoming Chromebook successor, "Googlebooks," is anticipated to launch in early October 2026.
Survey says loads of Google Messages users aren't keen on this incoming feature
AppWizard
September 18, 2026

Survey says loads of Google Messages users aren’t keen on this incoming feature

Google Messages is introducing a feature to notify users about updates and enhancements, which has received mixed reactions. A poll of over 1,800 participants showed that 52.3% are skeptical about the feature, fearing it may create "unnecessary bloat." In contrast, 20.6% view it as a "promising addition," while 27.1% are cautiously optimistic. Users have expressed a preference for other enhancements, such as additional font settings and improved contact categorization, over the notification system. Concerns have been raised about the potential for a cluttered user experience similar to past messaging platforms.
Why the Google Maps Speedometer "Disappeared" From Android Auto
AppWizard
September 12, 2026

Why the Google Maps Speedometer “Disappeared” From Android Auto

A speedometer feature was introduced for Android Auto users but later disappeared. Google explained that the speedometer and speed limit display only appear during active navigation. The rollout of the ability to show these features without a destination set is ongoing, and not all users have access yet. Mishaal Rahman from Google confirmed this is a misunderstanding, not a bug. Additionally, users have reported issues with colored traffic lines in Google Maps on Android Auto, which have not been restored for some. Users are advised to keep their apps updated for the latest features.
Windows 11 is getting a much-needed change to privacy settings — but it's something Microsoft should have sorted a long time ago
Winsage
August 20, 2026

Windows 11 is getting a much-needed change to privacy settings — but it’s something Microsoft should have sorted a long time ago

Microsoft is introducing per-app permissions for all desktop applications in Windows 11, allowing users to revoke access to the camera and microphone on a per-app basis, including for Win32 applications. This feature was previously limited to apps from the Microsoft Store. The latest Experimental Insider Build (26340.9212) includes smartphone-style permission prompts for managing app access. Additionally, Microsoft is removing the drag tray feature due to user feedback indicating it obstructed access to target folders. The company is committed to refining user experience based on real-world feedback.
Microsoft Copilot OS revealed in LEAKED video: Lightweight Windows OS exploration features new desktop UI built entirely around Copilot and agentic AI
Winsage
July 2, 2026

Microsoft Copilot OS revealed in LEAKED video: Lightweight Windows OS exploration features new desktop UI built entirely around Copilot and agentic AI

Microsoft is exploring a dedicated AI operating system called Aion, which integrates Microsoft Edge and a new lightweight Windows codebase known as Win3. Aion features a fresh desktop user interface with a Taskbar that includes a "Spaces" feature for organizing applications and websites. It is designed to run exclusively web apps and websites, leveraging Windows 365 for access to traditional desktop applications. The video suggests a version of Aion may operate atop Windows 11, potentially supporting native Windows applications, but the version shown is based on the Win3 codebase, which does not support legacy Win32 apps. The video is reportedly from 2024, and the future of Aion remains uncertain, though elements of its capabilities are being integrated into Windows 11. Microsoft has also introduced Project Solara, which offers an adaptive agentic OS experience, raising questions about the relationship between Aion and Solara.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
June 29, 2026

Microsoft reveals Windows 11 taskbar feature that Windows 10 never had, two ways to shrink in testing

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 to potentially surpass Windows 10, including the introduction of a feature that allows users to restore a smaller taskbar, addressing user requests. The new Taskbar size setting enables users to adjust the taskbar's overall size, with options for "Small" resulting in a thinner taskbar and smaller icons. Additionally, Windows 11 will receive at least ten new features, including a movable taskbar that allows positioning on any side of the screen. The Start menu is also being improved, allowing size adjustments and the removal of ads, with changes such as renaming the “Recommended” section to “Recent.”
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
June 3, 2026

Hands-On: The New Windows 11 Taskbar

Microsoft is refining the Taskbar in Windows 11 as part of its updates within the Windows Insider Program. The Taskbar has undergone significant changes, including a centered layout and the removal of features like relocating it to different screen edges. Users can now align the Taskbar to the left, toggle visibility for Search, Task view, and Widgets, and drag files to app shortcuts. A Mute/Unmute microphone button has also been introduced. Microsoft has acknowledged user feedback regarding the Taskbar's size and functionality, with plans to allow repositioning and a smaller version of the Taskbar. As of late May, a new build introduced options for Taskbar positioning and smaller taskbar buttons, allowing users to place the Taskbar at the top or sides of the screen.
Tested: Windows 11's new Start menu lets you fully customize it, and it works surprisingly well
Winsage
May 30, 2026

Tested: Windows 11’s new Start menu lets you fully customize it, and it works surprisingly well

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Build 26300.8553, featuring a redesigned Start menu that addresses user complaints about customization and performance. The update introduces section-level toggles for managing the visibility of Pinned, Recent, and All sections. The Recommended section has been rebranded as Recent, allowing users to display recently accessed files and customize its visibility. Users can also disable Pinned apps and All apps, leading to a minimalist Start menu. Three size options for the Start menu are available: Automatic, Small, and Medium. The All apps section can be viewed in Grid or List format. Users can hide their name and profile picture from the Start menu. A native Start menu is in development, with plans to use native WinUI 3 frameworks for improved performance. Additionally, a new Low Latency Profile CPU boost is being rolled out to enhance responsiveness.
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