Windows app Archives

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft testing physical-to-cloud PC failover

Microsoft has introduced a preview of "Windows 365 Reserve," which offers pre-configured cloud PCs for users when their primary devices are unavailable. The service includes essential Microsoft 365 applications, user-specific security policies, and customizations. Users can access a Cloud PC for up to 10 days per year, with the option to use the time all at once or in shorter sessions. Key features include data synchronization via OneDrive, pre-loaded corporate applications, and management through Microsoft Intune. Enhanced security measures involve disabling certain redirections and implementing virtualization-based security. Additionally, Microsoft is conducting a private preview of Windows 365 Cloud Apps for secure access to individual applications without needing a dedicated Cloud PC. Improvements to Windows 365 Link include a new "Connection Center" for selecting multiple Cloud PCs, enhanced multi-monitor support, and NFC card login capabilities.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Microsoft has a brand-new service aimed at saving all your files from disastrous cloud drop-out

Microsoft has introduced Windows 365 Reserve, a web-based service that provides temporary, pre-configured Cloud PCs for users during device disruptions. Users can access these Cloud PCs from any device, and they come equipped with Microsoft 365 applications, corporate settings, and security protocols. The service can be utilized for up to 10 days each year. Pricing details are not yet announced, and a preview is expected to launch soon. There is speculation about a possible subscription-based model, and an online application process will be available for early access. Additionally, a 20% discount for first-time customers has been announced for the existing Windows 365 platform.

Winsage

June 13, 2025

Microsoft’s Copilot Vision can now see and analyze your entire PC screen – not just what’s in Edge

Microsoft has integrated its Copilot Vision AI into the Copilot Windows app, currently available in the United States for Windows 10 and 11, with plans for expansion to additional non-European countries. This feature allows users to interact with items on their screens, providing assistance with files, applications, and on-screen content. Users can request analyses, summaries, or guidance on specific software features. Copilot Vision can connect multiple applications or files, helping users manage tasks like scheduling events. To use it, users access the Copilot Windows app, select items to share, and can ask questions about the shared content. The AI respects user privacy by only analyzing explicitly shared content.

AppWizard

June 6, 2025

Packet is an Android Quick Share App for Linux

Packet is a Linux application developed in Rust with a GTK4/libadwaita interface designed for wireless file transfer between Android and Linux devices. It utilizes Android's Quick Share feature, requiring devices to have Bluetooth enabled and be connected to a compatible Wi-Fi network. Users can easily send files by dragging and dropping them in Packet or using the Quick Share option on Android. The app allows customization of device names, visibility, download folders, and can run in the background. Packet is available for installation from Flathub or can be built from source on GitHub.

Winsage

May 31, 2025

Bring your PWA closer to users with App Actions on Windows

App Actions on Windows have expanded to include Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) starting from Edge version 137. Developers can now publish their PWAs to the Microsoft Store, allowing for enhanced user interactions. App Actions enable users to access key features of an app directly from their current context, reducing distractions from switching between applications. For example, the note-taking app Goodnotes allows users to send text directly to the app without toggling windows. Developers can integrate App Actions into their Microsoft Store PWAs by defining an Action manifest, setting up a custom protocol handler, configuring the app as a share target, and packaging the app for the Microsoft Store using PWABuilder. Optionally, developers can define a PWA launch handler and test actions using the App Actions Testing Playground.

Winsage

May 22, 2025

Signal says no to Windows 11’s Recall screenshots

Signal has updated its Windows app to enhance user privacy by preventing Microsoft’s Recall feature from capturing screenshots of secure conversations. The new version activates screen security by default, using a digital rights management (DRM) approach similar to that of streaming services. Users can disable this feature in the app’s settings, but concerns have been raised about its impact on accessibility features like screen readers. Developer Joshua Lund has highlighted the need for app developers to access tools that protect sensitive information from OS-level AI systems. Microsoft’s Recall feature, designed to enhance productivity, currently lacks an API to exclude sensitive content from its archives, posing privacy risks. While Microsoft has measures to filter activities from private browser windows, users must have technical knowledge to adjust settings for specific applications. Signal continues to adapt to digital privacy challenges while advocating for better support from operating system developers.

Winsage

May 15, 2025

Microsoft App Assure helps Nord Security build for Windows on Arm

Developers are focusing on optimizing applications for the newly launched Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced system architecture, all-day battery life, and the ability to run AI models directly on the device. The initial Copilot+ PCs are powered by Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus silicon, with AMD and Intel also introducing compatible processors. Microsoft’s App Assure Program provides guidance and technical support to help developers optimize applications for these devices, particularly for Arm-based Snapdragon X Series devices. NordVPN is a notable example of a company that successfully utilized the App Assure program to develop an Arm-optimized version of their application. The program includes the Arm Advisory Service, which allows developers to consult with Microsoft engineers for a smoother development process. Other companies, such as Proton VPN and F-Secure, have also benefited from the App Assure team in optimizing their applications for the Windows on Arm platform.

Winsage

May 8, 2025

As Windows 10’s death looms, Linux fans still promote “no ads or telemetry” for your old laptop instead of buying a Copilot+ PC

Windows 10 will reach its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025. Users can either upgrade to Windows 11, purchase an additional year of support through the Extended Security Updates program, or switch to a different operating system. Approximately 240 million PCs are not ready for Windows 11 due to its stringent system requirements. The End of 10 group is advocating for users to switch to Linux instead of upgrading hardware for Windows 11, highlighting Linux's advantages such as being free, open-source, and environmentally friendly. They encourage users to explore beginner-friendly Linux distributions and assure support from the Linux community. Windows 11 currently holds a market share of 42.69%, while Windows 10 has a dominant 54.2%.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

How to browse your Android storage on Windows 11 without any USB cables

The latest update to Windows 11 allows Android users to wirelessly access their device's storage directly from File Explorer. To connect an Android device to Windows 11, users need to enable access in the Settings app, download the Link to Windows app if prompted, and confirm the connection using a QR code and verification code. Once connected, users can browse their Android storage through File Explorer, view storage usage, and access various folders like Cameras, Documents, and more. The recycle bin on the Android device will display deleted files for up to 30 days.

Winsage

April 26, 2025

Blame your phone for killing off this traditional Windows app

Microsoft has announced that Windows Maps will be deprecated by April, with the app being removed from the Windows Store by July and ceasing to receive support thereafter. A July update will deactivate the Maps app entirely. Personal data saved in the app will remain intact but will not function after July 2025. New PCs running future versions of Windows 11 will not come preinstalled with the Maps app beyond the current 24H2 release. Users can still access mapping services through Bing’s dedicated maps page.