widespread rollout Archives

AppWizard

September 30, 2025

Google is quietly testing a better app launch shortcut for the Pixel Launcher

Recent user reports indicate a potential enhancement in the Pixel Launcher, where the search bar now highlights the app name with "open" next to it, and the search button has changed to an arrow or enter button, allowing users to launch applications directly from the keyboard. This change is currently limited to a small number of users as part of a server-side test, with no widespread rollout confirmed yet.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Google might be working on a new Gemini UI that makes sense on tablets

Google is enhancing the user experience of its Gemini platform on tablets with a new beta release that features a tablet-friendly layout, including a sidebar for quick access to chats and a hamburger menu for navigation. The updated design includes shortcuts for starting new conversations and searching past discussions, as well as a modified prompt bar that highlights tools like “Deep Research” and “Canvas.” A new “Search History” function allows users to retrieve past chats using keywords. The latest beta version (v16.20.48.sa.arm64) for Android mirrors the web interface, with a left-hand sidebar for navigation and practical shortcuts for new and archived chats. Users can switch between different Gemini models using a dropdown menu, and a full-screen mode option is available to hide the sidebar for a distraction-free view. The timeline for the widespread rollout of the tablet-optimized layout is currently uncertain.

Winsage

April 17, 2025

March, April Windows 11 updates cause BSOD pain for users

Microsoft has reported that two recent updates for Windows 11 24H2, specifically the April cumulative update KB5055523 and the March preview update KB5053656, are causing blue screen crashes with the error code 0x18B (SECUREKERNELERROR) after installation and reboot. There is currently no permanent solution, but Microsoft is working on a workaround using a Known Issue Rollback (KIR) that will automatically apply to personal or unmanaged devices through Windows Update. IT departments will need to manually download a Group Policy .msi file to implement the rollback. Affected machines will require a restart to complete the process.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

A new ‘File Search’ feature is coming to the Windows 11 taskbar

Microsoft introduced a feature called Microsoft 365 Companions at the Ignite 2024 event, which integrates into the Windows 11 taskbar and Start menu to enhance file searching. One component, the File Search Companion, allows users to search for files across Microsoft 365 applications and OneDrive directly from the taskbar. Users can refine searches by file type and access files stored locally or in the cloud, including recent files, shared files, team collaboration files, and files associated with specific individuals and keywords. The rollout for Windows 11 users is anticipated in the coming months.

AppWizard

November 5, 2024

Upcoming Google Play update could strengthen protection against harmful apps (APK teardown)

Google is developing a feature for its Play Store that allows users to temporarily pause Play Protect for one day instead of disabling it completely. This feature aims to enhance user safety by automatically reactivating Play Protect after the pause period and includes a warning prompt about potential scams when users attempt to pause or turn off the security feature. The feature is expected to be available to users in the near future.

Winsage

October 15, 2024

This trick frees your Windows PC from Microsoft’s hellbent ‘New Outlook’ imposition — permanently

Many users prefer Outlook over Gmail but are unhappy with the transition to the 'New Outlook,' which Microsoft began automatically upgrading. A batch file named 'OutlookRemover' allows users to revert to the classic Mail and Calendar app by preventing the new Outlook from installing. Users can download the batch file from GitHub, unpack it, and run it as an administrator. The script works by installing a custom blank app with the same package ID as the new Outlook, thus preventing its installation. This batch file is compatible with Windows 10 and 11. Additionally, a button in the New Outlook app's settings allows temporary access to the old Mail and Calendar app, but users must repeat the process each time they want to switch back. The long-term functionality of the batch file is uncertain, as Microsoft may address this workaround in the future.

AppWizard

May 25, 2024

Google Weather app Material You redesign hits more Android phones and tablets

Google has rolled out a new version of its Google Weather app, initially available only on select Pixel devices in 2023. The app, featuring the Material You design, has now expanded to a wide range of Android devices, including older versions like Android 11. The update brings more detailed data presentation and machine learning-enhanced predictions for rain and precipitation forecasts. Google is using AI and machine learning to revolutionize weather forecasting with the updated app.