When my desktop application for Facebook Messenger, Messenger or Desktop, wanted me to install an update and I found out that the update wanted to install a web browser extension and otherwise pollute my computer, I uninstalled it.
Having a desktop app can sometimes be convenient, even though it has basically the same functionality as the corresponding web interface. So, I googled and found Franz, a desktop messaging app that supports a bunch of messaging services and is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.
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A web feature I liked when it came was the ability to resize textboxes. Especially multi-line textboxes (<textarea></textarea>) have a tendency to be too small and this feature really helps there. To my disappointment I find that many websites disable this feature to favour design at the expense of usability.
Inappropriately sized textbox with disabled resizing
To re-enable this I use the Stylebot extension for Chrome. I have added a rule to the global stylesheet (applies to all websites).
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As my Mac Mini from 2010 has gotten slower and slower I’ve been thinking about a replacement for it as the HTPC (Home Theatre Personal Computer) I’ve been using it for. I was running Plex (both server and client) on it connected to a “dumb TV” and I’ve been fully happy with that. So, when I draw the conclusion that the old computer didn’t cut it any more, I had a few different options.
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I have recently got the chance to upgrade my work computer from an old, heavy and ugly machine with almost no battery life and a terrible screen to something new and shiny. I ended up getting the third generation Lenovo X1 Carbon (unfortunately without touch screen for budget reasons). This is my experience so far of that machine running Windows 10.
I really like the X1 Carbon. Lightweight with a good screen and good keyboard, and good performance for an ultrabook.
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When Microsoft recently released a new Outlook app for iOS I decided to try it out. I previously used both the built-in Mail app from Apple and the Gmail app side by side, so if Outlook was good enough I could maybe switch to one single mail app on the phone. You can read some more about it here: A deeper look at Outlook for iOS and Android.
Trying out the new features it struck me that a lot of people must have a hard time managing their e-mail.
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