utility Archives

Winsage

April 16, 2026

Microsoft’s VP just reworked a Windows 11 feature to make it “comfortable” for macOS users — if they ever decide to switch

Microsoft, Apple, and various Linux distributions compete for user loyalty in the operating system market, with Microsoft leading through its Windows OS. PeekDesktop is a free utility developed by Scott Hanselman, allowing Windows users to hide open windows by clicking on the desktop, similar to a feature in macOS Sonoma. Early testing revealed issues, such as interference with emptying the Recycle Bin and the Task Manager not responding to clicks on the wallpaper. Hanselman noted that PeekDesktop was inspired by macOS features, aiming to help Apple users transition to Windows.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

Fake Proton VPN sites are pushing NWHStealer malware to Windows users

A malware campaign is utilizing counterfeit Proton VPN websites and other deceptive tactics to distribute a Windows infostealer known as NWHStealer. This malware extracts sensitive information, including browser credentials and cryptocurrency wallet details, and operates stealthily by injecting itself into legitimate processes. Two primary infection vectors have been identified: malicious ZIP archives on a free web hosting platform and trojanized installers from fake Proton VPN sites. The malware employs DLL hijacking and can exfiltrate data to a command-and-control server while ensuring persistence through scheduled tasks and disguising payloads as legitimate system processes. It also exploits the Windows cmstp.exe utility to bypass User Account Control. Users are advised to avoid downloading software from unofficial sources and to verify file signatures and publisher information.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

Microsoft VP releases free Windows tool inspired by macOS feature

Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft executive, has introduced Peek Desktop, a free utility for Windows users that allows them to hide all open windows with a click on the desktop wallpaper. The tool is available for download on GitHub and enables users to quickly access files and folders. Users can restore their previous window arrangement by clicking on the desktop or tapping the taskbar. Peek Desktop was inspired by a similar feature in macOS Sonoma and has received nine updates since its release two days ago, improving user experience and functionality. There is hope that it may be integrated as a native feature in Windows 11 in the future.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

FAT32 breaks free from its outdated limitation in latest Windows update

The FAT32 file system, historically limited to a 32GB partition size due to a design choice by Microsoft engineer Dave Plummer, can inherently support volumes up to 2TB with a 512-byte sector size and theoretically up to 16TB with 4KB sectors. While Windows maintained this 32GB limit, motherboard manufacturers had already developed firmware to utilize larger FAT32 drives. Tools like Rufus and GUIFormat were used to format high-capacity media, as Windows did not allow direct FAT32 formatting for drives larger than 32GB. However, with the introduction of Windows 11 Insider Preview Builds 26220.8165 and 26300.8170, users can now format large flash drives and external volumes as FAT32 directly from the Command Prompt without third-party software.

AppWizard

April 16, 2026

I freed up over 1GB on my Galaxy S26 by deleting these 7 useless apps

Samsung's Galaxy S26 series features One UI 8.5, praised for customization and stability but criticized for pre-installed bloatware. Key apps include: - Samsung Shop: Uninstalling frees up 154MB. - Samsung TV Plus: Uninstalling frees up 67MB. - Global Goals: Uninstalling frees up 121MB. - Samsung Kids: Uninstalling frees up 35MB. - M365 Copilot: Uninstalling frees up 334MB. - OneDrive: Uninstalling frees up 169MB. - LinkedIn: Uninstalling frees up 159MB. Removing these seven apps can reclaim over 1GB of storage, and most are not essential for device functionality.

Winsage

April 16, 2026

Windows 11 tool brings a macOS feature to the desktop — and I can’t believe this useful trick isn’t in Microsoft’s OS already

A new utility for Windows 11 called PeekDesktop has been developed by Scott Hanselman, a Microsoft executive. This tool allows users to minimize all open windows by clicking on an empty area of the desktop, similar to a feature in macOS. While Windows 11 already has keyboard shortcuts for minimizing windows, PeekDesktop offers a more intuitive option, particularly for users transitioning from macOS. The design of PeekDesktop aims to provide comfort for these users and is part of Microsoft's strategy to enhance user satisfaction amid increasing competition, especially with the recent launch of Apple's MacBook Neo.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Top Android Apps You Won’t Find On Google Play Store

The Google Play Store does not include every app desired by users due to strict privacy, security, and content moderation policies, leading to the growth of third-party platforms and APK-based tools. Notable apps outside the Play Store include: - BombitUp: A prank app that allows users to send multiple SMS messages, popular among younger users, but excluded from the Play Store due to potential misuse. - 9Apps: An alternative app store developed by Alibaba Group, offering a variety of apps, games, and older versions of applications, particularly popular in regions lacking Play Store access. - Snaptube: A video downloader for platforms like YouTube and Facebook, absent from the Play Store due to policy violations but sought after for offline video access. - VidMate: A comprehensive video downloading app that also provides access to live TV, movies, and music, maintaining popularity despite not being available in official app stores. - Honista: A modified version of Instagram that enhances privacy and customization options, appealing to users wanting more control over their social media experience. - Lucky Patcher: A tool for advanced users that allows modifications to app permissions and ad removal, requiring technical knowledge and sometimes root access, leading to its exclusion from the Play Store. - APKPure: An alternative app store that focuses on providing safe and verified APK files, emphasizing security and access to region-locked apps or older versions. These applications cater to specific user needs that are often overlooked by mainstream platforms.

AppWizard

April 15, 2026

Minecraft 26.2 Snapshot 3 Introduces New Sulfur Spike Blocks

The Minecraft 26.2 Snapshot 3 introduces Sulfur Spike blocks, which generate naturally on Sulfur blocks in the Sulfur Cave biomes. These blocks can form stalactites when placed on ceilings and stalagmites when placed on the ground. Players can combine two Sulfur Spikes to create elongated formations. Falling stalactites can damage players, and if there are no blocks above or below them, they will break and drop. Players can also break these spikes using a Minecraft Trident. Additionally, Potent Sulfur blocks can no longer be reverted back to Sulfur blocks, and the Sulfur Cube mob is no longer transportable via boats. Texture updates have been applied to several blocks, including Chiseled Cinnabar, Chiseled Sulfur, Cinnabar, Cinnabar Bricks, Polished Cinnabar, Polished Sulfur, and Sulfur Bricks.

Winsage

April 15, 2026

Google App for Windows Is Officially Here (Available in Japanese)

Google launched its "Google" app for Microsoft's Windows operating system on April 14, 2026, after an experimental phase in the "Search Labs" program. The app is designed for English-speaking users globally and features a search bar activated by [Alt + Space], allowing users to search local files, installed applications, Google Drive, and the web. It includes an AI-powered "AI Mode" and supports "Google Lens." Although the interface is in English, the app can be installed in a Japanese environment and recognizes Japanese input, providing accurate responses.

Winsage

April 15, 2026

Scott Hanselman Brings a macOS Feature to Windows

Microsoft vice president Scott Hanselman has introduced a new feature for Windows 11 called PeekDesktop, which allows users to minimize all open windows by clicking on an empty space on their desktop. This feature provides a clear view of files and shortcuts and can be restored with a second click. PeekDesktop is compatible with both x64 and Arm64 systems and is available for download on Scott's Tiny Tool Town website.