Windows 11 app Archives

Winsage

March 18, 2026

Spotify’s Windows 11 app gets a new quality feature FIRST, and high-end audio fans are going to love it

Spotify has introduced a feature called Exclusive Mode for Windows desktop users, which enhances audio quality by allowing Spotify to take full control of audio processing, ensuring Bit Perfect playback. This feature is currently exclusive to the Windows version, with plans for a Mac release in the future. To activate Exclusive Mode, users must use the latest version of the Spotify app on Windows 11 (version 1.2.84 or higher) and select a specific output device that is not set to the system default. While Exclusive Mode is enabled, no other audio applications can be used through the selected device, and it is designed solely for music playback.

Winsage

March 3, 2026

This third‑party Windows 11 app fixes one of its most annoying UX problems

The Files app has been updated to version 4.0.28, featuring an improved right-click context menu, bug fixes, support for the Microsoft Store version of Dropbox, icon customization for URL and shortcut files, and an option to disable smooth scrolling. The update resolves several issues, including problems with the 'Open With' menu, tab switching, and tag searches. The development team is focused on performance improvements, particularly for thumbnail loading times. Microsoft has plans to enhance Windows 11 and address user pain points related to File Explorer.

Winsage

March 3, 2026

This third‑party Windows 11 app just fixed one of its most annoying design problems — because someone had to step in and do it

Microsoft introduced Windows 11 nearly five years ago, but its market adoption has been slow due to challenges such as design flaws and high hardware requirements. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. In response to these issues, third-party applications like the 'Files' app have emerged, with the latest update (version 4.0.28) improving the right-click context menu and fixing bugs. Microsoft is working on changing perceptions of Windows 11 and addressing user feedback, including reassessing its AI strategy. Last year, the rollout of a new File Explorer feature to display "recommended" files was halted.

Winsage

February 20, 2026

Will Microsoft ever stop messing with Notepad? Windows 11 app could soon get another feature — and I’m predicting a backlash

Notepad in Windows 11 is expected to gain a significant enhancement that allows users to embed images, according to reports from Windows Latest. This feature aims to expand Notepad's functionality, making it more similar to Microsoft Word. Notepad has already introduced markdown support, enabling various formatting options. However, longtime users express concerns that adding features may compromise the app's simplicity and performance. Microsoft claims that users can disable certain features and that the new image support will not significantly affect performance. There are also security concerns related to vulnerabilities in the markdown formatting system. This change follows Microsoft's decision to remove WordPad from Windows 11, prompting questions about Notepad's evolving role in the Windows ecosystem.

Winsage

October 3, 2025

OneDrive is getting a dedicated Windows 11 app

Microsoft is developing a new OneDrive application for Windows 11, featuring a modern interface that emphasizes photo and video viewing alongside traditional file management. The app was discovered as a separate executable file named OneDrive.app.exe within existing OneDrive program files. It will have a new icon in the Taskbar and is designed to be web-based for better cloud integration. The focus on multimedia content indicates a shift towards visual storytelling and media sharing.

Winsage

October 3, 2025

Leaked Windows 11 app could be the file and photo management tool you’ve been waiting for

An executable file leaked from Microsoft's servers has revealed a forthcoming OneDrive application for Windows 11. The new app is designed with a photo-centric gallery and incorporates Microsoft’s AI chatbot, Copilot. It features a modern interface, integrated photo editing functionalities, and aims to enhance cloud photo management. The leaked file, OneDrive.app.exe, opens a self-contained window mimicking native application functionality. The user interface includes a Copilot tool for quick interactions with documents. The app is expected to streamline media management for users and may be delivered as a software update for current Windows 11 users. Microsoft has scheduled a “Copilot + OneDrive” virtual event for October 8, 2025, to potentially unveil the application and its rollout plans.

Winsage

September 29, 2025

I tried Google’s Windows 11 app, a macOS Spotlight moment for Windows with AI features

In mid-September 2025, Google unveiled the "Google app for Windows," currently in the experimental section of Google Labs, with no public release date announced. The app is available only to users in the U.S. and supports Windows 10 and 11. Users can install it by enabling a toggle in Google Search Labs and require a Personal Google Account for access. The app features a floating interface, allows standard Google searches, locates Google Drive files, and finds installed applications or local files. It includes Google Lens for image searches and translations, supports Rich Snippets, and has an AI mode for enhanced queries. The app consumes only 8.5MB of RAM and offers customizable settings for themes and keyboard shortcuts. Local file searches may not show newly downloaded files until a restart, while files uploaded to Google Drive are indexed instantly. The app's performance is compared to Microsoft's PowerToys Command Palette, which excels in speed but lacks AI capabilities. Minor issues include resizing difficulties and design inconsistencies.

Winsage

March 24, 2025

Microsoft will intentionally slow OneNote for Windows 10, so you ditch it faster

Microsoft has announced the discontinuation of "OneNote for Windows 10," encouraging users to transition to the new OneNote app designed for Windows 11. The legacy app will have its sync speed throttled starting in June 2025, with end of support set for October 2025. Microsoft has removed the older app from the Microsoft Store and advised enterprise customers to switch to the new version available through the Microsoft Store or a Microsoft 365 subscription. Users of the legacy app will receive prompts to migrate to the modern OneNote by July 2025. The new version offers enhanced security, AI capabilities, and improved performance but lacks some features of the legacy app.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Upgrade Your Windows 11 Experience with These 10 Free Alternatives to thew Standard Apps

- ImageGlass is a fast and versatile replacement for the default Photos app, supporting various image formats and basic editing tools. - Files App is a modern alternative to File Explorer with features like split tabs, compact views, and smooth navigation. - LibreOffice is a free, open-source office suite that provides alternatives to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. - GIMP is a powerful, open-source image editing tool with advanced features like layer management and color correction. - ShareX, Lightshot, PicPick, and SnipPaste are enhanced screenshot tools offering features like screen recording, annotations, and workflow automation. - ScreenBox is a VLC-based media player with robust format support and a sleek design. - Nora is a modern audio player with dynamic controls, playlist management, and an equalizer. - PDF Gear offers advanced PDF features like annotation, editing, and built-in OCR. - Zen Browser is a privacy-focused web browser built on Firefox, emphasizing security and customization. - Fluid Cast is a dedicated podcast app with offline downloads and progress tracking. - Qalculate! is a versatile calculator supporting basic and complex calculations, while SpeedCrunch is a keyboard-focused calculator for quick calculations.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Unwrap the magic of Windows 11 PCs this holiday

Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are introduced as innovative devices ideal for the holiday season, offering security features, performance for work and leisure, and AI-enabled functionalities. Notable models include: - Acer Swift Go 14 AI: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, up to 28 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Acer Swift X 14: Intel Core Ultra processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, 2.8K OLED display. Starting at ,299.99. - ASUS ProArt P16: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics. Starting at ,699.99. - ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, GeForce RTX graphics. Starting at ,099.99. - Dell Inspiron 14 Plus: Snapdragon X Plus platform, up to 15 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Dell XPS 13: Intel® Core™ Ultra Processors, up to 26 hours battery life, FHD+ display. Starting at ,159.99. - HP OmniBook X: High-resolution display, Snapdragon X Elite processor. Starting at ,089.99. - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition: 15.3-inch display, 22 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Lenovo IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus CPU, 14-inch OLED screen. Starting at 9.99. - Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge: AMOLED display, Snapdragon X Elite processor. Starting at 9.99. - New Surface Pro (11th Edition): AI-accelerated Copilot+ experiences. Starting at 9.99. - New Surface Laptop (7th Edition): Next-generation performance and Copilot+ experiences. Starting at 9.99. Various retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, offer these devices. Prices are U.S.-only and subject to change.