Vivaldi Archives

Winsage

February 23, 2025

WinApps: Virtualized Windows Apps On Linux, Plus Windowing

Linux users can now run the latest version of Photoshop on Linux machines with access to a dedicated mobile GPU, thanks to innovative open-source solutions. This is achieved through the WinApps project, which integrates a virtual machine into the Linux desktop using Remote Desktop Protocol, allowing Windows applications to run alongside native Linux programs. The setup requires significant effort, particularly in recognizing the GPU, but it enables heavy-duty applications to function effectively on machines like the HP Envy 16 with an Intel i7-12700H processor and 32GB of RAM. While WinApps offers substantial benefits for users relying on Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office 365, it is best suited for casual use due to potential bugs and performance issues. The development of WinApps reflects the contributions of various open-source teams, including those at Red Hat, and suggests future enhancements may improve accessibility for users.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

6 ways you can speed up browser performance on Windows

Google Chrome was initially praised for its speed and efficiency, but users have reported lag over time, a trend also seen in other browsers like Edge, Firefox, and Vivaldi. To enhance browser performance, users can take several actions: 1. Regularly review and remove unnecessary apps and extensions, as they consume system resources. 2. Use features that allow inactive tabs to enter "sleep" mode to conserve memory and processing power. 3. Consider disabling the tab-sleeping feature on high-spec computers to avoid delays when accessing frequently used tabs. 4. Utilize script-blocking extensions like uBlock Origin Lite to prevent scripts from hindering browsing speed. 5. Clear the browser cache regularly to refresh performance and load the latest versions of web pages. 6. Enable page preloading to anticipate and load links in the background, reducing wait times. Firefox is generally noted for superior speed and features compared to Chrome, and exploring alternative browsers and extensions can enhance productivity and privacy.

Winsage

December 1, 2024

Rainmeter is an impressive Windows customization tool

Users are exploring alternatives to the default File Explorer in Windows 11, with OneCommander being a popular choice among enthusiasts. Various recommendations from the community include Total Commander and Directory Opus. A user experienced burn-in on their QD-OLED monitor after using a static image for a year but found relief by switching to dynamic wallpaper. They appreciate QD-OLED technology and plan to upgrade to a newer generation panel. The Linux ecosystem features numerous distributions, with the user rotating between NixOS, Pop_OS!, Debian, and Q4OS based on their needs. A user transformed an outdated dual-Xeon CPU and motherboard into a home lab and budget gaming system, highlighting its versatility. Despite being a professional writer, the user relies on four fingers for typing and feels retraining could hinder productivity. Their first laptop was a Dell Inspiron 8500, which sparked their interest in technology. Microsoft’s OneDrive integration in Windows 11 has mixed reviews, with some users disabling automatic backups for a cleaner workspace. The gradual rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 has not introduced significant changes, leading some users to wait for broader adoption. A Discord server dedicated to co-working has helped one user maintain productivity while working from home. The challenge of non-repairable tech is noted, with companies like Framework promoting sustainability through repairable products. Opinions on drive partitioning vary, with some advocating for multiple partitions while others prefer a single partition for simplicity. Casual gaming with Vampire Survivors has become a favorite for low-stress gameplay. The need for RAM in gaming PCs is increasing, with 16GB being standard and 32GB ideal for many users. The user was motivated to build their first PC for better gaming performance, inspired by the original Titanfall game. They transformed an old PC into a smart home hub using Home Assistant, enhancing device management. Obsidian is being explored for running tabletop RPGs, showcasing its versatility. The user transitioned from the unreliable Snipping Tool to Greenshot for capturing screenshots. Odd-length M.2 drives are noted as scarce in consumer markets despite the rise of smaller NVMe SSDs. The user is exploring alternative browsers like Floorp and Vivaldi after years of using Chrome.

AppWizard

November 25, 2024

These are the best alternatives to Google’s most popular apps

Many users rely on Google-made Android applications, which can create dependency, but alternatives exist. Heliboard is an open-source keyboard that can replace Gboard after initial setup. Mozilla Thunderbird is a strong alternative to Gmail, offering a clean interface and support for multiple email providers. Mozilla Firefox is a preferred browser alternative to Google Chrome, providing extensive customization and support for extensions. Notally offers a familiar layout for note-taking as an alternative to Google Keep. Material Notes and Mixplorer are alternatives to Files by Google, with Material Notes offering a sleek interface and Mixplorer providing advanced features. Todoist is a feature-rich alternative to Google Tasks, with its own calendar solutions and voice recognition for task entry. OsmAnd and Organic Maps are navigation alternatives to Google Maps, utilizing OpenStreetMap data. Aves Gallery is a feature-rich gallery app alternative to Google Photos, while Focus Go offers a simpler experience for less powerful devices. Some Google apps, like Google Recorder and Google Messages, lack genuine alternatives.

Winsage

November 25, 2024

How to use Microsoft Edge Game Assist browser

Microsoft has introduced Edge Game Assist, an in-game browser that allows players to browse the web without interrupting their gameplay. It is integrated with the Microsoft Edge platform and enables access to websites, chat with friends, and perform online tasks within a pop-up window. Key features include accessibility from the Game Bar, integration with Edge profiles, retention of browsing history and saved passwords, minimal space occupation within the game window, and compatibility with virtually any game. Currently, Edge Game Assist is available in Beta channels only, and users must ensure the Game Bar is updated, that they are on Windows 11 versions 24H2, 23H2, 22H2, or any Windows Insider channels, and that Microsoft Edge or Edge Beta is set as the default browser. Users need Microsoft Edge Beta version 132 or later to use it. To use Edge Game Assist, users must install the widget via the Microsoft Edge settings, then launch a game and access the Game Bar using Win+G. Game Assist currently requires a mouse and keyboard for browsing, with gamepad support expected in future updates.

Winsage

November 20, 2024

This one Google app is finally here for Qualcomm Snapdragon Arm-based Windows 11 PCs

Google has announced Drive for Desktop ARM64 support, currently in open beta without the Outlook Meet plugin. The app is designed for Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors and mirrors the functionality of its x86-64 version. Users can download the setup package directly from Google. This release addresses compatibility issues for users of Qualcomm-based Windows laptops, as Google Drive was previously unable to function in compatibility or emulation mode. Microsoft has also released an ISO package for Windows 11 tailored for ARM64-based PCs, and Google plans to extend its Quick Share file-sharing app to Windows on ARM.

Winsage

November 11, 2024

Microsoft seemingly redesigning Windows 11 settings UI for default apps like browsers

In September 2023, Microsoft acknowledged the importance of default app choices in improving user workflow and performance. The company has been directing users towards its own products as defaults, particularly in web browsers, which sparked controversy from third-party developers, including Vivaldi, who criticized Microsoft's practices. Microsoft introduced a "UCPD" driver to block third-party Registry hacks for changing default apps. Recently, changes were observed in the Windows 11 Settings app regarding default app choices, noted in build 26120.2213 under update KB5045885, with updated text indicating a new approach to setting defaults for file and link types. The final details of these changes remain unclear.

Winsage

September 22, 2024

Is Linux Really Difficult For a Windows User? My Personal Journey Answers It!

The author transitioned from being a Windows-only user to using a dual-boot configuration with Windows 10 and Ubuntu, eventually moving to a laptop with Windows 11 due to a power supply issue. They fully transitioned to Ubuntu 22.04.4 LTS but later switched to Fedora after complications with GPU usage tools. The author learned to navigate various package managers and desktop environments, ultimately preferring GNOME for its productivity features. They utilize several applications on Linux, including GIMP, Spotify, Proton VPN, and LibreOffice. The author appreciates Linux's customization options and positive gaming experiences, particularly with Cyberpunk 2077. They recommend Linux Mint for newcomers and acknowledge some challenges in gaming and software availability. The author believes that Linux is accessible even for those with minimal technical expertise.

Winsage

September 1, 2024

Top 5 weekly: Amazon’s “Remarkable Alexa,” Windows on Arm apps, and more

Unofficial "Super God Mode" app for Windows has been updated to enhance its ability to uncover hidden links. Blackmagic has launched DaVinci Resolve 19 for Windows on Arm, ahead of Adobe's offerings. The Vivaldi browser now officially supports Windows on Arm, featuring improved speed and functionality. AI researchers have successfully trained an AI to play Doom using Stable Diffusion, allowing users to control the game with mouse and keyboard inputs. Amazon is reportedly developing a new AI feature called "Remarkable Alexa," which aims to summarize extensive data into concise segments for tailored news digests.

Winsage

August 29, 2024

Vivaldi is officially optimized for Windows on Arm PCs and supports tab renaming

Vivaldi has released an update to version 6.9, introducing features such as tab renaming, drag-and-drop file handling, and an improved overview of synced tabs. Enhancements to Vivaldi Mail focus on stability and performance. The platform is now optimized for Windows on Arm, supporting Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processors, which are being integrated into new devices. This optimization aims to improve performance and efficiency on Arm-powered devices, promising faster load times, smoother scrolling, and better responsiveness. Vivaldi offers an intuitive interface with extensive customization options for users.