visual design Archives

Winsage

January 20, 2026

Windows 11 Home vs. Windows 11 Pro: I compared both versions, and this one’s best for your PC

Windows 11 is approaching its fifth anniversary since launch, featuring significant changes while retaining core functionalities from Windows 10. Key updates include a refreshed visual design, improved system performance, support for Android applications, and the introduction of AI-powered Copilot. Microsoft offers a Pro version for power users, providing advanced tools, deeper control over system settings, and enhanced security options. Windows 11 Home includes features like Windows Hello, Device Encryption, Windows Defender Antivirus, Firewall, SmartScreen, Family Safety, and support for Android apps. It is suitable for average users and those on a budget, as it is free for upgrades from compatible Windows 10 devices and comes preinstalled on new PCs. Windows 11 Pro includes additional features such as BitLocker Drive Encryption, Credential Guard, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and full Remote Desktop hosting. It is ideal for users needing greater control over their system and those who rely on virtualization tools. Windows 11 Home is free for users upgrading from Windows 10, while Windows 11 Pro costs approximately 9 for a full license or for an upgrade from Home.

Winsage

January 18, 2026

Windows 11 Home vs. Windows 11 Pro: I compared both versions, and here’s my upgrade advice

Windows 11 is nearing its fifth anniversary and features enhancements in visual design, system performance, and support for Android applications. Microsoft offers a Pro version for power users, which includes advanced functionalities not available in the Home version, such as BitLocker Drive Encryption, Hyper-V, and enhanced remote access capabilities. Windows 11 Home is suitable for average users who prefer simplicity, offering essential features for everyday tasks and automatic updates. It is free for users upgrading from compatible Windows 10 devices and comes preinstalled on new PCs. Windows 11 Pro, priced around 0 for a full license, is ideal for users seeking greater control over system settings and those who rely on virtualization tools. Key specifications include: - Both editions share core features like the full Windows 11 UI, Snap Layouts, and Copilot. - Windows 11 Home includes basic security features, while Pro adds advanced options like BitLocker and Credential Guard. - Pro supports virtualization with Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox, while Home does not. - Processor support differs, with Home supporting 1 CPU and 64 cores, and Pro supporting 2 CPUs and 128 cores.

AppWizard

December 29, 2025

The Changing Face of the Minecraft Zombie: How the Mob Works, Why It Matters, and What Players Should Know

Zombies in Minecraft spawn in dimly lit areas, pursue players, and are harmed by sunlight unless sheltered. They can break wooden doors on hard difficulty, pick up weapons or armor, and can chain-aggro when one groans. In Survival Mode, they motivate players to build defenses, provide rotten flesh for dogs, and offer experience points. In Creative Mode, they are used to test mob farms and traps, with customizable skins available. In Adventure Mode, they are utilized for scripted events and challenges. Recent updates have improved their pathfinding, spawn dynamics, sound design, and textures. Players can prevent spawns with light, use shields, gain height advantage, farm zombies for XP, and keep extra blocks for emergencies.

AppWizard

December 19, 2025

Android 16 QPR3 Alerts for Apps Using Your Location

Android is introducing a real-time privacy feature in the Android 16 QPR3 beta that notifies users whenever an app requests access to their location. A blue dot appears next to the battery indicator when location data is actively being used, and users can swipe down to see which apps are accessing their location. This feature aims to enhance user awareness and control over location tracking by providing immediate notifications and options to manage permissions. The feature is currently available for Pixel devices, with plans for broader rollout in future updates. It aligns with Android's ongoing efforts to improve privacy, including one-time permissions and background access queries. Developers will not need to opt into this feature, as it will automatically display whenever an app requests location data.

AppWizard

November 23, 2025

This mech themed XCOM-like just got a gargantuan update that overhauls its campaign, redesigns its overworld, and adds personalities to pilots with ‘over 100’ unique traits

Brace Yourself Games released Phantom Brigade 2.0, an update to the mech-themed, simultaneous turn-based tactics game originally launched in 2023. The update addresses criticisms of the initial version, which included repetitive missions and basic enemy AI. Key enhancements in the 2.0 update include a reworked campaign with new maps and quests, an expanded overworld with new provinces, improved mission generation for a dynamic environment, over 100 unique pilot traits and abilities, and revamped gameplay mechanics for better tactical encounters. Early player feedback shows a positive reception, with recent Steam reviews indicating a 90% positive rating. The game is currently available at a discounted price of £12.50 until December 3.

AppWizard

October 30, 2025

Arc Raiders review in progress: An Extraction shooter for the masses

Arc Raiders is an extraction shooter developed by Embark Studios, set in a post-apocalyptic world where players, known as raiders, scavenge for resources while facing threats from rogue robots and rival players. The game allows players to engage in both PvE and PvP elements, with a focus on cooperative objectives rather than solely hunting other players. Players can craft gear and utilize a variety of weapons, enhancing the gameplay experience. The game features a forgiving mechanics system, allowing players to explore and enjoy the game without the high-stakes pressure typical of other titles like Escape from Tarkov. The art direction combines retro-futuristic aesthetics with vibrant colors, adding charm to the overall experience. Players can also receive bonuses from companion pets and skill tree upgrades, contributing to a more relaxed atmosphere.

Winsage

October 5, 2025

3 Windows File Explorer add-ons that fix Microsoft’s biggest pain points

File Explorer has received updates, including tabs and refreshed icons, but still has a rigid layout and limited personalization options. Common tasks like batch renaming often require third-party solutions. PowerToys enhances File Explorer with features like PowerRename for advanced renaming and preview add-ons for various file types. OneCommander is an alternative to File Explorer that offers a dual-pane view, customizable themes, and additional organizational tools. The Files app provides a paid upgrade with themes, tabbed browsing, and color-coded tags for better file organization. Each tool addresses specific shortcomings of File Explorer, catering to different user needs.

AppWizard

October 1, 2025

YouTube is trying out a new look on mobile, and users respond exactly how you’d expect

YouTube has introduced a new user interface for select mobile users, following a previous redesign for Android TVs. Key changes include the repositioning of the channel profile picture above the video title, which is now located to the right, and the transition of channel names to a username format (e.g., @jetlagthegame). The buttons beneath the video player have been redesigned, with the notification bell moved to the forefront and text labels removed for a cleaner look. Additionally, the UI for Shorts has been updated, featuring smaller and smoother buttons, which has received mixed reactions from users. YouTube is encouraging community feedback on these changes.

AppWizard

September 14, 2025

Review: Cronos: The New Dawn is just shy of being a Dead Space successor

Cronos: The New Dawn is a AAA survival-horror game developed by Bloober Team, set in an eerie '80s Polish town named New Dawn. The game features straightforward exploration with a linear progression, environmental puzzles, and a focus on inventory management. Combat involves facing grotesque enemies called Orphans, with a risk-reward system for resource management. The narrative follows The Traveler as they navigate time rifts and uncover secrets about a mysterious organization called The Collective. The game is available on multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Linux, and macOS, in Standard and Deluxe editions.

Winsage

July 11, 2025

Microsoft says Black Screen of Death better ‘aligns with Windows 11’s visual style’ – but I think the new crash screen is missing a key detail

Windows 11 has changed its Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) to a Black Screen of Death, maintaining the BSoD abbreviation but adopting a new design that aligns with Windows 11's aesthetic. The new interface features a black background and a message stating, "Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart," along with a stop code for error information. Microsoft is testing this redesign in the Release Preview channel, aiming to improve user experience during crashes. The updated design removes the frowny face and QR code, which were previously part of the BSoD. Concerns have been raised about the new design's similarity to a standard Windows update screen, potentially causing confusion among users.