Windows app Archives

Winsage

October 7, 2026

Your Windows PC can now reach other PCs through Windows App

Microsoft has launched a significant enhancement to its Windows App, now allowing general availability for remote PC connections on Windows. Users can access both physical and virtual Windows PCs, integrating resources from Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box into a single interface. The Windows App replaces the previous Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store and the standalone Remote Desktop client, while the traditional Remote Desktop Connection tool (mstsc.exe) remains supported. Users can connect to remote PCs by entering the computer's name or IP address, with options for display preferences and local resource redirection. All redirections are turned off by default for security, and connections can be saved and pinned to a Favorites list. Marvin Quinzon, Senior Program Manager at Microsoft, highlighted the importance of this update for users and organizations needing flexibility in cloud and traditional remote access scenarios.

Winsage

October 7, 2026

I ignored the Windows app until Microsoft closed this major feature gap

The latest update to the Windows App allows users to connect to a Windows PC remotely, expanding its capabilities beyond previous support for Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Microsoft Dev Box. To use this feature, users need to download the app, select "Add a Remote PC," input the remote PC's name or IP address, and then establish the connection. The classic Remote Desktop Connection tool (mstsc.exe) remains available despite the retirement of the Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store.

Winsage

October 4, 2026

Nadella has lost the plot calling Copilot an OS again, it’s a web app on Windows 11

Satya Nadella has referred to Copilot as a “new OS for work” during a leadership update, following Microsoft's introduction of the latest iteration of Copilot. The new Copilot app, which replaces the previously named Microsoft 365 Copilot, is currently available for users, although some features like Home, Code, and Autopilot are still forthcoming. The app operates as a standard Windows application, specifically a rebranded Microsoft Edge launcher built on a Chromium framework. Nadella reiterated his vision for Copilot in a post dated October 1, emphasizing its role in consolidating various work functions into a single platform. The Copilot app integrates features such as Home, Office applications, and a proactive command center named Today. Currently, the app primarily functions as a chat interface, with significant features yet to be rolled out. The architecture of Copilot relies on a lightweight launcher and a complete Edge build, resulting in high RAM consumption. Microsoft has shifted Copilot’s architecture from a native WinUI version to a web-based wrapper, supported by a secondary component for additional functionalities. Internal documents reveal a vision for a prototype called CopilotOS, indicating a long-standing ambition to create a cohesive workspace.

Winsage

September 29, 2026

AMD & Perplexity bring local AI to Ryzen Windows PCs

AMD and Perplexity have launched Portable Computer, a software solution for Windows PCs with Ryzen AI Max Series processors, enabling local AI tasks and workflow management for Pro and Max subscribers. This allows users to run extensive AI models on their devices without relying on cloud processing, enhancing privacy and conserving Perplexity Computer credits. The software integrates local models with agent orchestration, scheduling, and security controls, and connects with popular workplace applications like Gmail and Slack. AMD's AI PCs, introduced in 2023, feature a neural processing unit that allows local AI operations alongside standard applications. This collaboration signifies a shift towards more AI processing on personal devices, aiming to automate tasks and improve user experience. Jack Huynh from AMD highlighted the transformation of PCs into intelligent partners, emphasizing the coexistence of local and cloud AI in their strategy.

Winsage

September 11, 2026

Is this Windows 11’s new modern cursor? Microsoft quietly shows a redesigned pointer

Microsoft released Experimental Windows 11 build version 26340.9354, which includes a mock-up of a new Resume hovercard featuring a redesigned mouse pointer. The new pointer has a broader shape, a softer curve on its lower-left side, and a more symmetrical appearance, differing from the traditional thin tail-like extension of Windows cursors. Although Microsoft has not confirmed any changes to the system cursor, the release notes mention a known issue with cursor customization but do not address any redesign. Reports from June indicated that Microsoft was testing a new cursor as part of its Windows 11 modernization initiative. The mock-up resembles a Fluent icon, with a cleaner and wider shape compared to the classic Windows arrow. Despite this, the current developer documentation still refers to the traditional pointer as the "arrow cursor." Windows 11 has modernized many UI elements, but the pointer has remained largely unchanged, with limited customization options. The combination of the recent mock-up and previous reports suggests a potential transformation in the cursor design may be forthcoming.

Winsage

September 9, 2026

Windows 11 set to gain upgraded sound settings, cross-device improvements, and new family safety features as Microsoft begins testing

Microsoft has released new Windows 11 preview builds for testing, featuring several enhancements. Key updates include: - Enhanced sound settings with redesigned volume sliders that provide real-time audio feedback and the migration of more Control Panel sound settings to Windows Settings. This includes options to set default audio devices, enable hardware acceleration, configure exclusive mode, and adjust adaptive communication sound levels. The All sound devices page has also been improved for easier management of audio devices. - Improved cross-device functionality allowing users to download the Windows app for a phone directly from the Taskbar via Phone Link, facilitating easier task resumption across devices.

Winsage

September 4, 2026

These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best

One of the main challenges when transitioning from Windows to Linux is software compatibility. Wine and its frontends allow Windows applications to run on Linux, but the ease of use varies across distributions. Zorin OS integrates Windows application support into its desktop experience, allowing users to install .exe and .msi files directly through its Windows App Support component. It simplifies the process by eliminating the need for complex commands and provides a database of popular Windows installers. Winux (Wubuntu) creates a familiar environment for Windows users but faces challenges with running Windows software, requiring additional configuration for proprietary components. Bazzite focuses on gaming, utilizing Wine-based tools for compatibility but may not cater to everyday Windows applications. Nobara, a Fedora-based distro, emphasizes gaming enhancements and shares similar limitations regarding standard Windows productivity applications. Garuda Linux is aimed at experienced users and offers flexibility with Wine and Proton support, but its complexity may not suit those looking for a simple transition. Zorin OS is identified as the most effective solution for running Windows applications on Linux, providing a manageable transition while maintaining access to necessary software.

Winsage

September 4, 2026

These 5 Linux distros promise to run Windows apps—I tried them all, and one was clearly the best

One of the main challenges for users transitioning from Windows to Linux is software compatibility. Linux has many applications, but users often depend on specific Windows programs. Wine and its frontends allow Windows applications to run on Linux without a virtual machine, although the ease of use varies by distribution. Zorin OS integrates Windows application support directly into its desktop experience, allowing users to install .exe and .msi files easily through its Windows App Support component. It provides a familiar workflow and recommends the best usage options for popular Windows installers. Winux (Wubuntu) aims to create a Linux environment that resembles Windows, making it easier for users to adapt. However, running Windows software can be challenging due to compatibility issues with proprietary components. Bazzite focuses on gaming, offering excellent compatibility for Windows games through Wine-based tools, but may not be ideal for users seeking to run standard Windows applications. Nobara Project, based on Fedora, enhances gaming experiences and simplifies configuration for gaming on Linux, but is not primarily designed for running Windows productivity applications. Garuda Linux caters to experienced users and gamers, leveraging Wine and Proton for compatibility but may be complex for those simply wanting to install Windows applications. Zorin OS is identified as the best choice for users needing to run Windows applications on Linux, providing a manageable transition while maintaining a familiar aesthetic.

Winsage

August 30, 2026

Microsoft Moves WinUI/WASDK Development to GitHub

Microsoft has transitioned the development of WinUI and the Windows App SDK to GitHub, marking a commitment to enhance Windows developer technologies. This shift is part of a strategy unveiled in August 2025 to address developer concerns regarding these tools. Mainline WinUI development is now conducted on GitHub, allowing for real-time project evolution and community engagement. Although the technologies have not yet been open-sourced, Microsoft is working towards that goal. Currently, only Microsoft employees can modify the codebase, but there are plans to open the repository for community contributions in the future. This approach follows Microsoft's previous efforts to open source legacy Windows developer frameworks.

Winsage

August 29, 2026

This Linux and Windows app makes managing all your documents easier

Paperwork is a free, open-source document management tool available for Linux and Windows. It allows users to import various document types, including PDFs, DOCX, and ODT files, and provides features for tagging, labeling, and searching documents. Users can search by file name or specific text strings and filter results by labels or dates. Installation is straightforward for both Linux and Windows, with specific commands provided for different distributions. Paperwork organizes documents by date and attempts to auto-label them, though users may need to adjust labels manually.