visual changes Archives

Winsage

September 15, 2026

This open-source Windows launcher does what Microsoft’s new Start menu should have done

Microsoft is set to introduce a significant overhaul of the Windows Start menu in its upcoming 26H2 update, responding to user feedback about limited customization options. Flow Launcher is a keyboard-centric app launcher that offers superior functionality compared to the traditional Start menu. The installation of Flow Launcher is straightforward, with options for portable versions and package managers. It features a sleek search bar and allows users to quickly search for apps and files, enhancing productivity. Flow Launcher is highly customizable, with settings for behavior and appearance, including nearly 20 themes and various visual options. Its plugin ecosystem expands its capabilities, allowing users to install and manage plugins for added functionality. Notable plugins include Speed Test and Google Translate. Flow Launcher provides a more customizable and efficient experience compared to Microsoft’s current offerings.

Winsage

July 27, 2026

Microsoft admits its Windows 11 apps hog RAM. A fix is coming

Microsoft is addressing high RAM consumption in native Windows 11 applications by optimizing memory usage through updates to the WinUI 3 framework. Significant improvements in RAM management are expected in an upcoming Windows 11 update, as outlined during the Build 2026 developer conference. The enhancements aim to reduce RAM usage and improve performance, particularly for low-spec PCs. Microsoft is currently testing changes related to memory usage, performance, and reliability for WinUI, with plans to modernize various Windows components, including the Start menu. Specific metrics on the expected reduction in RAM usage have not yet been disclosed.

AppWizard

July 10, 2026

Palworld revises some of its most egregious creature designs for its 1.0 release

Palworld officially exited early access today with the release of a significant 1.0 patch, attracting hundreds of thousands of players. The update included numerous gameplay enhancements and visual reworks for several characters, particularly those resembling existing Pokémon designs. Verdash has been transformed to have less humanoid proportions and removed legwear similar to Cinderace. Robinquill and Fenglope also received updates to their color palettes and designs to differentiate them from Decidueye and Cobalion. These redesigns are not related to the ongoing legal dispute between Nintendo and Pocketpair, which focuses on creature-capturing and riding mechanics, not character designs. The changes reflect an acknowledgment of the original designs' lack of originality and aim to help Palworld establish a more distinct identity.