Monthly Archives: April 2020

2020.04

This Windows 10 Minimal Torrent Client Design Could Actually Work

If you’re running Windows 10 and searching for any modern torrent client you probably noticed that the options in this regard are pretty limited.

This is because that despite the many BitTorrent apps that you can download right now, not even one comes with Microsoft’s Fluent Design language that essentially allows for a more modern interface and visual effects like acrylic.

And while users worldwide keep dreaming about a modern Windows 10 experience from one end to another, which may obviously include third-party apps embracing Fluent Design too, the dev community sometimes doesn’t necessarily appears to become very keen on doing this for the time being.

Meanwhile, designers within the Windows 10 userbase come up with their own proposals for a refresh of certain apps or features of the operating system, and one such idea is this minimal torrent client.

A minimal torrent client with Fluent Design

Posted on reddit earlier today, the concept comes with a super-clean design that only displays the essential information that you need when downloading files using the BitTorrent protocol. Obviously, this might not be everyone’s cup of tea since more advanced information is missing, but however, it could really come in handy to people who want the modern experience that I told you about earlier.

For the time being, however, this type of project is more or less impossible, as there are slim chances for any BitTorrent client developer to actually bring such a design to their apps.

The Fluent Design language rollout is currently under way in Windows 10, so having a little luck, more developers would embrace Microsoft’s new facelift and bring it to their apps. Within the meantime, there are plenty of BitTorrent clients to choose from, all without this modern look and feel.

2020.04

WordPad Needs the Fluent Design Facelift in Windows 10 ASAP

The Fluent Design system represents Microsoft’s highly-anticipated Windows 10 facelift, which the software giant has also expanded to other services, including the Office productivity suite.

But simultaneously, it’s also not a secret that the rollout of the Fluent Design makeover in Windows 10 is actually advancing in a pace that’s slower than what users themselves expected, especially given they waited for so long for that whole thing.

The good news is the focus on Fluent Design continues, and every new feature update for Windows 10 brings further improvements in this regard.

But among the apps that seem to become completely ignored, and which so many forgot about, including probably even Microsoft, is WordPad.

As most tech watchers know already, the latest few Windows 10 feature updates brought quite lots of improvements for Notepad, the pre-loaded OS app that lots of people still use and which obviously deserves each one of these refinements. Needless to say, Microsoft’s doing the right thing by improving Notepad even further, especially given an impressive share from the Windows 10 users actually rely on it for such things as quick text editing or perhaps coding.

WordPad, however, has its special place in Windows users’ hearts, but Microsoft has more or less ignored it in the most recent Windows 10 feature updates.

In addition to new features, which would technically bring WordPad in line with the rest of the apps on Windows 10, the Fluent Design treatment is also needed, because the current interface more or less reminds of the classic Windows experience instead of the modern approach that Microsoft is pushing hard for.

A WordPad concept that I recently wrote about imagines this highly-anticipated Fluent Design makeover in the app, and while Microsoft might not agree with everything envisioned here, a few of the ideas certainly fit WordPad like a glove.

Some users believe that WordPad is more or less a redundant app, especially because Microsoft’s also offering Notepad in Windows 10. And given Notepad has received so much love lately, the software giant should just give up on WordPad and concentrate on better things going forward, these users say.

But giving up on WordPad isn’t by any means a decision that Microsoft should make right now, and in fact, the company should make sure that all apps in Windows 10 boast the modern experience that it’s betting so big on. In fact, completing the Fluent Design makeover and finalizing the Windows 10 facelift should be a priority for the software giant anyway, especially because the whole thing started several years ago.

The next feature update for Windows 10 may be the May 2020 Update, also referred to as version 2004, and unsurprisingly, it doesn’t bring anything notable on the WordPad front. This isn’t necessarily surprising, as Microsoft has focused on other things, but however, it could be a little bit of the letdown for others who expected to see WordPad finally getting some love.

Version 2004 is really a feature-package release which comes just at the right time. The previous update, called November 2019 Update, was entirely focused on fixing things and refining the performance under the hood, with many describing it like a service pack. Rumor has it that the same approach could be used for the fall 2020 update, which means that any significant improvements for WordPad would just have to wait a minimum of a year to go live on production builds.

For that time being, however, our only option would be to see the glass half full: WordPad still offers the same experience that everyone is familiar with.

2020.04

How to Show Weekday on Taskbar in Windows 10 (Day of Week)

For ease of access, the taskbar allows showing the name of the weekday in date and time. Follow the steps below to show the day of the week on the taskbar.

The taskbar by default shows both the time and date. Generally, the taskbar time is going to be in either 12 hours or 24 hours format and the date will be in the day-month-year or month-day-year format. Obviously, the date format depends upon where you live. As you are able to see, that which you are missing may be the ability to see the weekday name. If you click on the time, you can see the weekday name within the flyout menu. However, having weekdays on the taskbar is quite helpful. Especially if you are like me who forgets what day it is constantly.

So, within this quick guide, allow me to show you the simple way to add and find out weekday on the taskbar in Windows 10.

Note: Though I’m saying Windows 10, the steps shown below will also focus on Windows 7 and Windows 8.

Show Weekday or Day of Week on Taskbar

Most don’t know this however the Date and Time settings in Windows allows extensive customization. Using those options, we can configure Windows to show weekday within the taskbar. It is pretty easy, just follow the steps as is and you’ll be good.

To add weekday to taskbar time, we are going to use the good old control panel. Mainly because, as of writing this, the new PC Settings app has no proper options to change the date format.

1 . First, open the Start menu, search for “Control Panel” and click around the result to open it.

2. Within the Control Panel window, set the View by to “Category”. Next, click around the “Change date, time, or number formats” link under the Clock and Region section.

3. In the Region settings window, click around the “Additional Settings” button. In the Advanced window, we will be in a position to create a new preset to show weekday around the taskbar.

4. The above action will open the Customize Format window. Under the “Date Formats” section, type ddd, in the start from the Short Date field. This will show weekday in short form (Mon, Tue, Wed..).

If you want the full weekday name then type dddd, instead. Once you are done setting up, click on the “Apply” and “Ok” buttons.

Note: Having comma and space between weekday notation and date notation is optional. However, having it causes it to be look a little nicer.

As soon as you do that, the changes are reflected instantly. From now on, you are able to see the weekday around the taskbar. Depending on the weekday notation you chose earlier, you’ll see the weekday name appear accordingly. You are able to see the below images to see how both notations look like.

That’s all. As you can see, though hidden deep inside, it’s pretty easy to add weekday to taskbar time and date.

2020.04

Ubuntu 20.10 “Groovy Gorilla” Release Date Announced

The next major update for Ubuntu is going to be called Groovy Gorilla and can land in the fall, according to a release schedule shared now by parent company Canonical.

Ubuntu 20.04 LTS was officially launched this week among the most-anticipated updates in a long time, and now Canonical is focusing on the next important release due later this year.

Ubuntu 20.10 Groovy Gorilla will thus function as the next major Ubuntu update after 20.04 LTS (Focal Fossa), 19.10 (Eoan Ermine), and 18.04 LTS (Bionic Beaver).

Groovy Gorilla is projected to officially go into the testing phase this summer, as the feature-freeze stage is scheduled to be reached in late in August. At this time, the work on new features should be completed, with the development tactic to then focus on bug fixes and extra refinements.

If everything goes based on the plan, Ubuntu 20.10 is going survive October 22 as a final release, based on the release calendar. The ultimate freeze and the release candidate are both set for October 15.

Ubuntu 20.04 available these days

Meanwhile, all eyes take presctiption the brand new Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, which is available these days for download both using the dedicated ISO images shared by Canonical as well as in the Microsoft Store for WSL installation.

Ubuntu 20.04 is published within the Microsoft Store for Windows 10 users who wish to use the latest version when the windows are Subsystem for Linux, which allows for a number of Linux distributions to run on top of Windows 10.

Microsoft will soon release the Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 as part of the next Windows 10 feature update due next month. WSL2 has already been readily available for testing in version 2004 preview builds in the Windows Insider program for anyone who would like to try out Ubuntu 20.04 ahead of the global rollout of this Windows 10 update.

2020.04

Microsoft Uses Outlook Ads to change Google Chrome Users to Microsoft Edge

A new Microsoft Edge browser is here and while it’s offered as the new default on Windows 10, the software giant wants to make sure most people are aware the application is now available for download.

So along with praising the capabilities of its Chromium-based browser on every single occasion, Microsoft also turns to ads to promote the brand new Edge, most of them displayed in the very own services.

Outlook.com is one of these sites, as WL has spotted a series of Microsoft Edge banners displayed over the inbox that were displayed once the email service was loaded in the search engines Chrome.

The banners come with the normal messages that highlight the capabilities of Microsoft Edge and recommend users to download the brand new browser and check out it on their devices.

The new Microsoft Edge

Microsoft’s new browser is dependant on exactly the same engine as Google, therefore the software giant has thus become among the largest contributors to the Chromium project.

But simultaneously, the migration from EdgeHTML to Chromium also allowed Microsoft to evolve Edge beyond the world of Windows 10, technically making it a cross-platform browser.

So in addition to Windows 10, the brand new Microsoft Edge can also be available on older Windows, like Windows 7 and Windows 8.1, and on macOS. A Linux version can also be considered, but an ETA about this isn’t yet available.

The Chromium engine does mean Edge includes features borrowed from Google Chrome, including for extensions published within the Chrome Web Store. Microsoft has created its very own extension store with the most recommended add-ons, but at the same time, users can safely install extensions from Google’s store simply by enabling a security switch within the settings screen.

Edge also replaces the prior version because the new default browser on Windows 10 once it’s installed.

2020.04

Cool New Skype Feature Available on Linux, Not in Dedicated Windows 10 Client

Microsoft has started rolling out custom backgrounds for Skype, however the new feature is only available in the desktop client and not within the dedicated Windows 10 app.

In other words, the custom backgrounds are available for Linux, Mac, and Windows, but only when the desktop client is used (Win32 for Windows users). The dedicated Windows 10 version of Skype, which may be downloaded from the Microsoft Store, already features blurred backgrounds, but is not yet been updated with today’s new feature.

Currently rolling out to users worldwide

Custom backgrounds land in Skype using the discharge of version 8.59.0.77 and are gradually rolling out to users worldwide.

It goes without saying that this is quite a welcome feature, especially because of the current context when everyone is working remotely. Not to mention, the idea isn’t new, as a lot of other video calling apps already boast custom backgrounds, but it’s probably better late than never for Skype users.

Enabling a custom background for Skype video calls can be achieved during a call by hovering the video button or clicking the three-dot menu to access recption menus. Click the option that reads “Choose background effect” after which customize the background either with a blur effect or making use of your own image.

Today’s new update includes additional sharing improvements, as the desktop client now allows users to talk about files directly from their Macs to contacts using Skype. This can be a welcome improvement for Mac users and it is living proof that Microsoft really wants to make Skype a much better collaboration tool not just on Windows, but also on rival platforms.

And of course, there are several bug fixes and optimizations underneath the hood, so overall, Skype should run a bit smoother after installing this latest version, regardless of the operating-system you’re currently using.

2020.04

How to Backup and Restore Thunderbird on Windows 10/8/7

Even though there really are a ton of email clients for Windows, there is nothing better than Thunderbird, a minimum of for me personally. I’ve been using Thunderbird for several years now and never once I’ve felt frustrated or disappointed by it. Sure, Windows 10 has a built-in modern Mail client but frankly, as of this moment, it does not hold a candle to the features or usability of Thunderbird.

Of all of the things, one of the features I like about Thunderbird is the capability to create and restore profile backups. The Thunderbird profile is that stores all your email account and email. So, by copying the profile, you are backing up the whole thunderbird client.

Now, you might be thinking why backup Thunderbird? After all, adding a new mail account doesn’t take greater than a couple of clicks. For those who have just a few email options then adding them manually is very large deal. However, if you’re like me and have more than a couple then it’s not that entertaining to add these each and every time you re-install Windows or Thunderbird.

Thankfully, whenever you add email options, Thunderbird will create an account with this information. To backup thunderbird data, all you need to do is backup thunderbird profile. After backing up the Thunderbird profile, technology-not only to revive Thunderbird whenever you re-install Thunderbird or Windows. As needed, you may also copy Thunderbird profile to another system. So, without further ado, allow me to show how to backup Thunderbird in Windows 10.

Though the guide is centered on Windows 10, the Thunderbird backup method shown below will work on Windows 7 and Windows 8 too.

Backup Thunderbird Profile Together with Emails and Email options

As I said earlier, to backup Thunderbird, all you need to do is backup thunderbird profile. Fortunately, the Thunderbird profile is situated in your home folder and could be found easily.

1. To get going, press Win + E to spread out File Explorer. Alternatively, you can click on the File Explorer icon or search for it within the start menu.

2. In the File Explorer, go to “C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Thunderbird\” location. Replace <username> with your actual username. This is where Thunderbird stores your account.

3. Here you will see a folder called Profiles along with a file called profiles.ini. The Profiles folder contains all of your emails and email accounts. The profiles.ini file links the Profile folder to Thunderbird. To backup Thunderbird, choose the “Profiles” folder and also the “profiles.ini” file, copy them and paste them in some other folder. With my case, I copied these to my backups folder within OneDrive.

That’s it, you’ve successfully done with Thunderbird backup.

Restore Thunderbird Profile to revive Emails and Email options

After backing up Thunderbird, you can use the backup to quickly restore Thunderbird on the new system or whenever you re-install Thunderbird or Windows.

1. First, quit Thunderbird if it is already opened. Then copy the backed-up Profiles folder and profiles.ini file. It is crucial that you copy both file and folder.

2. Now, visit “C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Thunderbird\”. Replace <username> with your actual username.

3. Paste the file and folder in the above location. You will be prompted to exchange or Skip files. Click on the “Replace files in the destination” to complete the restore process.

After completing the restore process, open Thunderbird client and you’ll see all your Thunderbird email accounts and emails restored.

Overall – Backup Thunderbird

As you can see it is quite easy to backup and restore Thunderbird in Windows. All you have to do is backup Thunderbird profile and restore it in the same position when needed. Typically, I backup thunderbird profile to my OneDrive account to ensure that I can access it on my small other system and restore it whenever I want.

Also, I personally use a totally free software called FreeFileSync to regularly support the Thunderbird profile. This helps to ensure that I’ve an up-to-date backup of Thunderbird.

Hope that can help. Check out how to enable Windows Defender sandbox mode in Windows 10 to enhance system security.

2020.04

The Smallest Microsoft Surface Gets Bigger

Microsoft is expected to launch the highly-anticipated Surface Go 2 between the following few weeks, and the closer we obtain for this moment, the more details make their method to the web.

This time around, it’s a study from WindowsCentral, which reveals the Surface Go 2 will actually be slightly bigger than its predecessor.

Quite simply, the Surface Go 2 will ship having a 10.5-inch screen and a 1920×1280 resolution, whereas the original model boasted a 10-inch display and a 1800×1200 pixels resolution. Therefore the Surface Go 2 will be bigger just by a little, and Microsoft will attain the event by reducing the bezels.

Without a doubt, this can be a welcome change, as larger screens will always be useful on the laptop. Not to mention, shrinking bezels is something which should happen on all modern devices available, including on laptops.

Surface Go 2 technical specifications

The Surface Go 2 will be offered having a choice of two processors. As rumored before, the base model will be offered with a Pentium Gold 4425Y chip, whereas the top-of-the-range configuration includes an Intel Core m3-8100Y processor. The second is going to be available with upgraded specs as well, inlucing 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD storage.

The least expensive Surface Go will continue to be available for $399, just like the base model within the first generation. This makes sense from the consistency perspective, as Microsoft wants the brand new device to be targeted at the same customers as the version it replaces.

A business-oriented Surface Go 2 is also expected, and some say the Intel Core m3 configuration will be specifically targeted at these customers. Microsoft is projected to unveil an official announcement on the Surface Go 2 within the coming weeks, probably in April, around time once the company also takes the wraps off the new Windows 10 May 2020 Update.

2020.04

Top Windows 10 App Now Available for Download from the Microsoft Store

Windows Notepad, which remains probably the most popular apps bundled using the OS, has become available for download from the Microsoft Store, only a few months after Microsoft pulled it.

The Microsoft Store form of Windows Notepad keeps coming on and on nowadays, as not really Microsoft seems to be sure whether keeping the app readily available for download this is a wise decision or otherwise.

The app was last pulled in the Store in December 2019, once the company just provided a simple explanation with no specifics regarding its decision.

“Thank you for all the feedback you provided around the Store form of Notepad. At the moment, we’ve decided not to roll this to customers,” Microsoft said in those days.

Available totally free for more frequent updates

Windows Notepad being published within the Microsoft Store has a number of benefits, including easier and much more frequent updates that aren’t necessarily tied to Windows updates. At the moment, Notepad is bundled with Windows, meaning all updates the app receives must be contained in the Windows 10 feature updates that Microsoft releases twice yearly.

So by moving it towards the Microsoft Store, Notepad can updated at a faster pace, which is obviously good news for those who run the app regularly.

“Notepad has been the fast and simple text editor on Windows for over 30 years, and now it’s available in the Microsoft Store! View, edit, and check through plain text documents and source code files instantly,” the Microsoft Store description published for Notepad reads.

The Store form of Notepad requires Windows 10 version 19541, according to the official details authored by Microsoft, and newer and it is obviously free of charge to any or all users.

2020.04

Windows 10 Improves the Way Users Set the Default Apps

Microsoft has released a brand new Windows 10 preview build, and the biggest change is definitely an overhaul from the Settings page that enables users to configure the default apps.

Managing the default apps on the Windows 10 system is possible from the Settings app, as well as in the next release of the operating-system, users can search the list for all type of information, including file types and protocols.

This means it’s considerably faster to set a brand new default without having to scroll manually to consider any particular item.

“Over time, we’ve designed a quantity of improvements to Settings based on your feedback, and we’re happy to share the next one is starting to roll out. We’re adding the opportunity to search the lists of file types, protocols, and apps when setting a default,” Microsoft says.

No release date

This new change has created gradually, Microsoft says, so only area of the insiders are becoming it right now. With respect to the feedback, the modification would go love more users within the coming weeks.

“This change happens to be available for 50% of Insiders in the Fast ring once we evaluate the quality. We’ll inform you when that rollout increases. Please try it out once it’s on your device, and let us know what improvements you’d like to see next!” Microsoft says.

The Settings app evolving is no surprise, as it’s designed to end up being the full replacement for the Control Panel at some point in the future. Microsoft really wants to completely get rid of the Control Panel in Windows 10, what exactly the company does at this time is migrating all configuration choices to the Settings app, while also making the current replacement more straightforward for everyone.

At this point, it’s not known once the new default apps experience should really go live for everyone, as tests in the Fast ring no longer have a release date.