A sneaky new strain of the ClickFix malware is making the rounds, and it’s going after the easiest victim of all: anyone who trusts a Windows update prompt. Security researchers at Huntress say the attackers have managed to put together a full-screen fake update screen that looks just convincing enough to trick people into giving it full access — all through a simple copy-paste trick.

The scam tends to show up on shady websites, mostly adult streaming pages filled with sketchy pop-ups. One misplaced click on an ad or a fake age check, and your entire browser suddenly turns into what looks like a legitimate Windows update stuck at 95%. It then claims you need to press Windows + R and paste a special command to finish the update. Of course, that’s exactly what the malware wants.

That command silently launches mshta, a built-in Windows tool, and pulls down a payload from a remote server. To make detection harder, the code includes tons of junk commands meant to throw off security software. In one of the odder twists, part of the malicious code is actually tucked inside a PNG image — the malware pulls hidden shellcode straight from the pixels and then injects itself into other running processes using .NET.

Once it’s embedded inside the system, the second stage kicks in. Known infostealers like Rhadamanthys or LummaC2 get dropped onto the machine, and from there it’s open season on passwords, browser cookies, banking logins, and crypto wallet data. Everything gets scooped up and shipped off to attackers.

Researchers say the campaign has been active since at least early October and is still very much ongoing, with multiple look-alike domains hosting the fake update screen. Forensic analysts also found random, useless strings in the code — including a weird reference to an old UN speech — apparently just thrown in to waste analysts’ time.

The worst part is that this attack relies entirely on social engineering. No file downloads. No obvious malware pop-ups. Just a website tricking you into running its command for it.

The quick takeaway:

Never copy and paste commands from a random webpage, no matter how official it looks. Real Windows updates don’t ask you to open the Run box — ever.

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(Source | Image)

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It wasn’t that long ago that Windows laptops with ARM processors felt experimental—okay for basic tasks, but weaker than x86 (Intel/AMD) machines in performance and compatibility.

That narrative has largely changed thanks to the launch of Snapdragon X (and its variants) silicon from Qualcomm. Most of today’s AI-focused Windows on ARM machines now run on a Snapdragon X-series chip using ARM architecture, rather than the traditional x86 platform that has powered Windows laptops for decades.

The difference this time is that the hardware finally feels mature. The Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus offer strong performance, excellent battery life, and cool-running designs.

On the software side, Windows 11—and the broader “Windows on ARM” initiative—now includes improved emulation of x86 and x64 apps via Microsoft’s “Prism” layer, meaning most Windows programs will run even if they aren’t yet compiled natively for ARM.

So, if you’re in the market for a laptop where portability and battery life matter most, Windows on ARM machines are more compelling than ever. Here are some of the best Windows on ARM machines you can choose from.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7

Microsoft has been the biggest believer in Windows on ARM, and the Surface Laptop 7 might just be the device that embodies that belief best. It keeps Microsoft’s familiar minimalist aesthetic: clean, slim, and free of attention-seeking design tricks.

Inside, you can choose between the Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite chips, with up to 64GB of RAM depending on the region. Storage goes up to 2TB, but the more interesting part is that the drive is user-replaceable. If you like the idea of starting with lower storage and upgrading later, this laptop makes it easy.

The Surface Laptop 7 also offers some of the best battery life in the Windows on ARM ecosystem. If your workload involves documents, video calls, and web browsing, it easily lasts a full workday — and then some.

You can choose from four color options: Black, Silver, Blue, and Gold. However, the Blue version is limited to the 13.5-inch model.

Dell XPS 13 (9345)

The XPS series is Dell’s premium line of laptops with a futuristic aesthetic, and this one is no different.

You get an invisible haptic trackpad area, no visible key gaps, and a capacitive function row that doubles as media controls. If you like a clean, flush look, there’s likely no better option than the XPS.

The XPS 13 (9345) is available with both LCD and OLED screen options. The base model features a 1080p LCD panel, while the high-end version comes with a 3K OLED touchscreen.

The laptop utilizes either the Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus platform, and like other Windows on ARM machines, it runs most emulated apps smoothly.

Dell claims the laptop can deliver 25 hours of runtime in a single charge. While that depends on individual usage, it should still last comfortably through a full day of light workloads such as document editing and web browsing.

HP EliteBook Ultra G1q

The EliteBook Ultra G1q is HP’s pitch to professionals who care as much about data security as battery life. It’s a Secured-Core PC, with hardware-level protections and HP Wolf Pro Security built in to fend off malware and phishing.

It runs a Snapdragon X Elite chip and comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB storage, though there aren’t upgrade options or microSD expansion, which feels limiting in 2025. 

Still, the machine prioritizes durability. It has MIL-STD 810 testing means it can handle travel bumps, and the privacy shutter and IR camera help reinforce the business focus. No OLED here, but you do get a crisp 2.2K touchscreen and a balanced 16:10 aspect ratio.

Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge

Samsung’s entry leans toward a multimedia-friendly, everyday laptop with a familiar design. It has a 15.6-inch Full HD screen (not the sharpest here), a lightweight body made with recycled materials, and the usual Samsung ecosystem ties — including Galaxy AI features and tight phone syncing.

It’s powered by the Snapdragon X chip, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, Wi-Fi 7, and a decent spread of ports, including HDMI and a microSD slot. Battery life should be strong thanks to the 61Wh battery and the efficiency of ARM silicon.

This laptop feels geared toward users who want Windows plus the convenience Samsung offers across devices. If you carry a Galaxy phone, it will feel familiar and connected right away.

Microsoft Surface Pro 12-inch

If you want Windows on ARM in a portable 2-in-1 form factor, the Surface Pro 12-inch is the most balanced option right now. It’s a slim tablet first, but with a detachable keyboard and pen (sold separately), it easily becomes a lightweight laptop for work or study.

Microsoft hasn’t changed the Surface formula much here, and that’s not a bad thing. The built-in kickstand still makes it easy to set the device up at any angle, whether you’re typing on a desk or watching a video on a flight tray table.

Inside, the Snapdragon X Plus powers the device alongside 16GB of RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of storage. As a result, performance is strong enough for office work, streaming, and creative apps that support ARM. It also includes Windows Hello face unlock, which is quick and reliable for everyday use.

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Microsoft recently debuted its new Copilot+ PCs with a cool new feature called Windows Recall. While Microsoft intends it to be exclusive to these machines due to specific hardware requirements, resourceful folks online have already found workarounds to make it work on older machines. 

Albacore, a user known as @thebookisclosed on X, has managed to jury-rig Recall onto a non-Copilot+ device with very sub-par specifications. The device in question is a Samsung Galaxy Book Go 2 with an ARM-based Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3 processor and a meager 3.4GB of RAM. 

This feat is particularly impressive since the Snapdragon 7cx on the Go 2 doesn’t have a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) or 16GB of RAM that Microsoft specifies as the minimum requirements for Recall. Despite these limitations, Albacore says the feature works “surprisingly good.”

Albacore has even promised to share a detailed guide for Surface Pro X owners and others on the Windows on ARM platform so that they can get their hands on Windows Recall. 

The x86 crowd might have to wait a bit longer to get a taste of Recall since the developer ML models are primarily ARM64 packages at this point. But eventually, the x86 PC might be able to join the Recall party too.

The concept of Recall is interesting as well as worrying. Microsoft has made it clear that all the processing and data stays on-device, but to think that your OS is constantly recording your move is a bit unsettling for me. 

Thankfully, Microsoft does offer options for users like me who can either opt out of snapshots or disable the feature altogether.

Recall officially arrives with the Windows 11 version 24H2 which is currently in the public Release Preview Channel, one step away from mainstream availability.

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Microsoft is stepping up its game in the photo editing arena, introducing an innovative feature called Generative erase to Windows PCs. This nifty tool, built into the Windows Photos app, offers a simple way to clean up your photos by removing things you’d rather not have in them—think of a person who photobombed your perfect shot, or a helicopter that showed up out of nowhere in your perfectly framed picture. Yeah, Generative erase will fix that for you.

Although not as good as Magic Eraser, the tool does the job quite well

Microsoft is making sure of that by rolling out Generative erase not just to those on Windows 11 but also to folks using Windows 10 and Windows 11 for Arm64 devices. This move is all about bringing more powerful editing capabilities to a wider audience, right on their existing hardware.

For the moment, this feature is in the hands of Windows Insiders, a group of users who get to try out new stuff before it’s widely released. They’re the lucky ones testing out Generative erase along with other AI-driven editing features, provided they’ve updated their app to the latest version specified by Microsoft. There’s also a background removal tool in the mix, adding even more options for users to play with.

As we move forward, integrating AI into our daily tech tools is becoming a norm. Microsoft’s addition of Generative erase to its Photos app is a big step toward making sophisticated photo editing tools more user-friendly and widely available. It’s a clear signal that the future of photo editing is here, and it’s more inclusive, allowing more people to enhance their digital memories with just a few clicks.

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(Via)

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Despite Microsoft releasing Windows 11 just three years ago, rumors about Windows 12 are already everywhere. According to the latest reports, the company is set to unveil the new version of the popular operating system in the second half of 2024. This move is likely to declare Windows 11 officially outdated, marking the end for older versions. In line with this decision, numerous companies have already discontinued support for older Windows versions. Now, Now, Steam does the same thing by cutting support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. Here are the details…

Game Over for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 on Steam, Time to Upgrade!

In March 2023, Steam, the world’s largest online game store, announced that it would stop supporting certain operating systems. Starting from January 1 2024, Steam will no longer be compatible with Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1. Users are required to switch to a computer operating on Windows 10, Windows 11, or the upcoming Windows 12.

Although the announcement surprised everyone at the time, it wasn’t taken too seriously since there was still a nine-month deadline. However, time has swiftly passed, and now there is less than 15 days remaining before the deadline. According to Steam’s Hardware and Software Survey in November 2023, only 1% of Steam users are still using older versions of Windows.

While this number may not seem high at first glance, it’s worth noting that the estimated total number of Steam users as of December 2023 is 1.2 billion. In this case, 1% of Steam’s total users accounts for approximately 12 million people. If you’re still using older versions like Windows 7 because of nostalgia, habit, financial constraints, or other reasons, and you love playing games, it’s a good idea to upgrade to the latest version as soon as you can.

This is especially important if you want to continue enjoying your favorite games without any disruptions. For example, PUBG: Battlegrounds recently announced that it won’t be playable on older Windows versions. This serves as a clear indication that there won’t be any delays from Steam’s end.

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Microsoft has released the recent build of Windows 11 for 2023 in the Beta Channel. Although voice access has undergone several adjustments and modifications, Windows 11 Build 22635.2915 is a rather minor upgrade.

Numerous changes have been made available to Insiders over the past few weeks, as this is a Beta Build. Should you have been paying attention, you have already noticed several changes, such as the addition of a character counter to Notepad in Windows 11.

Earlier this month, Microsoft declared that Windows Speech Recognition will no longer be supported, making voice access an increasingly crucial capability.

It is past due that Microsoft discontinued Windows Speech Recognition, a feature that was initially introduced with Windows Vista. Much more powerful, voice access is updated frequently with new capabilities.

The final Beta Channel trip for Windows 11 Insider will take place in January 2024. Scroll down to see the full details of the update:

Windows 11 Beta Build — New features

1. Extended languages, multi-display support, and custom commands for voice access

Extended language support: Windows has expanded speech capability for additional languages, including German, French (France), Spanish (Spain), and Spanish (Mexico).

Multi-display support: Now, you may utilize all of the voice access capabilities across displays, including the number and grid overlays that were only accessible on the primary display.

Voice shortcuts: Microsoft is going to start offering voice shortcuts and custom commands so you may make your instructions. If you utilize voice access in English, you can now get this.

2. Improved discoverability of screencasting

You may wirelessly expand your display to a nearby PC, TV, or other external displays by using Casting on your Windows PC. They are rolling out updates that emphasize Cast’s discoverability in Windows 11 and educating people about it. It includes:

• Windows will provide the option to Cast via a notification toast while you are multitasking on your PC, such as often navigating between windows to finish a job or using Snap Assist to arrange your screen real estate.
• Added more support to the Cast flyout in Quick Settings so you won’t have to worry about connecting issues, finding adjacent displays, or anything else.

3. Windows 365 Boot New Features and Improvements

Dedicated mode for Windows 365 Boot: Windows is now introducing dedicated mode, a new option for Windows 365 Boot.

You may now use your assigned company-owned device to boot up to your Windows 365 Cloud PC. With password-less authentication techniques like Windows Hello for Business, you may easily log in to your Windows 365 Cloud PC from the Windows 11 login screen.

The new dedicated mode also includes features like remembering your username, displaying a photo on the lock and login screens, and a quick account switcher experience that lets you swap accounts to log in with ease.

Early in 2024, a private preview of the functionality will be made available to Windows 365 users.

Customized company logo and name for Windows 365 Boot: Organizations may now personalize the login page in shared mode to include their Intune business logo. Early in 2024, Windows 365 users will be able to access the functionality in a private preview.

Fail fast mechanism for Windows 365 Boot: You no longer have to wait for the Cloud PC sign-in procedure to finish before discovering that Windows 365 Boot failed because of a network problem or an unfinished setup.

To ensure a seamless login experience for users to their Cloud PC, the intelligent logic alerts users in advance to fix network problems or finish app setup.

Manage local PC settings through Windows 365 Boot: You may now more easily view and control the sound, display, and other device-specific settings of your local PC from your cloud PC when using Windows 365 Boot.

4. Windows 365 Switch New features and enhancements

Improved disconnect experience for Windows 365 Switch: You may disconnect straight from your local PC to their Cloud PC.

To disconnect, navigate to Local PC > Task view > Right-click the Cloud PC button. To help you distinguish between these features, they have also included tooltips for the Cloud PC Start menu’s disconnect and sign-out choices.

Desktop indicators to differentiate between Cloud PC and local PC for Windows 365 Switch: Now, when you move between your own PCs, the terms “Cloud PC” and “Local PC” will appear on the desktop indication.

Windows 365 Switch to Frontline Cloud PC: While you wait on the connection page, you will now get updates on the Cloud PC connection status and the connection timeout indicator.

If there is a mistake, you can now quickly fix it by copying the correlation ID from the error screen by utilizing the newly included copy button.

5. General

• Windows Speech Recognition (WSR) replaced with voice access: WSR is no longer supported. When you launch WSR, a dialog box will appear encouraging you to test voice access.

Additionally, we’ve put a banner under Settings > Accessibility > Speech. With Windows 11, we’ve added voice access—a new assistive technology that employs on-device speech recognition to let you create text and manage your computer—without requiring an internet connection.

In a later version, it will allow various languages and custom commands (as previously mentioned, Windows Insiders may now test these capabilities in the Beta Channel). Windows advises WSR users to give voice access a try right now.

• Nearby Sharing: Added nearby sharing, navigate under Settings > System > Nearby sharing. This feature allows you to rapidly give your device a more amiable name to distinguish sharing to and from.

• Narrator: Narrator users may now dictate text, utilize voice interaction with screen components, and utilize voice access to launch programs. Users of Narrator can provide voice instructions to Narrator by utilizing voice access.

Take “read next line,” “speak faster,” etc. as examples. Start by typing “voice access” into Windows search and configuring it.

• Task Manager: You will now be able to choose the dump file location when generating one for a process, allowing you to transfer it out.
• Desktops: A bug where the backdrop would bounce when a user switched between desktops was fixed with a few changes.

6. Notepad Update

Windows is now distributing a Notepad update (version 11.2311.33.0) via the Beta Channel to Windows Insiders, bringing with it the following enhancements:

• Edit with Notepad: You may quickly open Notepad from File Explorer and make changes to files. To open and edit files in Notepad quickly and efficiently, simply right-click on any file or many files in File Explorer to bring up the [Edit with Notepad] option in the context menu.

• Character Count: The new character count display in the status bar allows you to keep track of how long your document is. When a text selection is made, the character count for the selected text and the full document are displayed in the status bar. You can always clearly see how long your document is if you know how many characters it is without having to choose any content.

Note: Through an enablement package, every Windows Insider in the Beta Channel will now be running the same build, 22635.xxxx.

If you’re a Windows Insider in the Beta Channel and would want to be the first to receive features gradually, you can switch on the option to receive the most recent updates as soon as they become available by going to Settings > Windows Update.

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(Source)

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Notepad, the ubiquitous text editor on Windows devices, has finally received a much-needed update: a character count feature. This feature, while seemingly basic, has been absent from the app since its inception.

Notepad gets a character count feature

The new feature arrives in the latest Canary channel test build of Windows 11. It adds a character count display to the bottom left corner of the Notepad window. This mimics the behavior of other text editors like Microsoft Word, offering a convenient way to track the length of your text. 

By default, it displays the total number of characters in the entire document. But if you select a specific line, the application will show the character count for that section. I’m sure the character count feature on Windows Notepad will come in handy for all who work with any text-based content. 

The character count feature is one of several improvements Microsoft has made to Notepad this year. Recently, they added an autosave option that automatically saves your work at regular intervals, eliminating the worry of losing progress. 

Additionally, they’ve added tabs for managing multiple documents and a dark mode for comfortable nighttime use. And if you need to fidget, there’s even a virtual fidget spinner now. These changes make Notepad a more user-friendly experience overall.

Apart from this, Windows 11 itself has received some updates in the latest Canary channel build. Users can now choose to display only widgets on the dedicated Widget page, hiding the feed of news and articles if they so desire. This feature wasn’t really clicking with me either, so I’m glad Microsoft is offering more options.

However, it’s important to remember that all these features are currently in beta testing and should be available to all users in future updates.

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Microsoft is gearing up to launch a new version of Windows, tentatively codenamed “Hudson Valley,” potentially to be marketed as Windows 12. This new update, as per multiple sources, is expected to be released in the latter half of 2024 and is set to revolutionize the operating system with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI).

AI at the Core of Windows ‘Hudson Valley’

Early versions of Hudson Valley are currently undergoing testing in the Windows Insider Canary channel, with the RTM version slated for release in April 2024.

Hudson Valley’s primary focus is on enhancing the user experience through AI. Key features include an AI-driven Windows Shell and an “advanced co-pilot” Copilot AI assistant. This assistant is designed to operate continuously in the background, improving functions such as search, application launches, workflow management, and context understanding. AI will be deeply integrated across the operating system, requiring new NPU (Neural Processing Unit) hardware for optimal performance. Consequently, the hardware requirements for computers will increase significantly, potentially making older computers incompatible with some of the AI-focused features.

The assembly rate of AI PCs, equipped with NPUs, is expected to rise sharply, reaching 81% by 2027, according to IDC’s forecast. This indicates a trend towards mainstream adoption of AI in the PC market.

Recent updates in Windows 11, including the Copilot AI update and Background Removal in Paint, hint at Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to AI-powered improvements. Additionally, a new roadmap for Windows update cycles is reportedly in the works.

Besides the advanced Copilot, Hudson Valley is rumored to introduce AI-powered wallpapers with dynamic parallax effects and interaction capabilities, a Super Resolution feature enhancing image quality in photos, videos, and games, improved energy-saving mode, and a potential redesign of the desktop interface with the system tray positioned at the top. The final name and features of Hudson Valley are yet to be confirmed though.

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(Via)

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Microsoft Phone Link, formerly known as Microsoft Your Phone, is a useful utility, particularly if you own an Android 14-powered flagship smartphone.

The software includes the Link to Windows companion app for Android phones and the Phone Link app for Windows devices.

Developers of the Link to Windows app appears to be working on the new feature, as indicated by code discovered by the people at Android Authority. The new feature would enable you to utilize the Link to Windows app to use the camera on your smartphone as a webcam on your PC.

Although certain Link to Windows features are limited to particular devices, it’s unclear if this new capability will be available on all phones that have Link to Windows installed.

There is code in Microsoft’s Link to Windows v1.23102.190.0 for Android app that indicates the corporation is working on enabling video streaming from your Android phone to your Windows PC. This would enable it to function as a webcam.

<string name="camera_activity_launch_notification_content">Tap this notification to allow your PC to stream your camera video</string>
<string name="camera_activity_button_pause">Pause Video</string>
<string name="camera_activity_button_resume">Resume Video</string>
<string name="camera_activity_launch_notification_title">Tap to start camera stream</string>
<string name="camera_activity_lock_notification_title">Unlock your phone to start your video</string>
<string name="camera_activity_button_dnd">Do not disturb</string>
<string name="camera_activity_button_swap_camera_to_back">Switch to Back</string>
<string name="camera_activity_button_swap_camera_to_front">Switch to Front</string>

These strings suggest that users would be able to launch a camera stream that allows their phone’s camera to be accessible to their Windows PC once Microsoft’s Phone Link software is operational on both linked devices.

Although “webcam” is not mentioned in the strings directly, there are other hints that suggest the functionality is somehow connected to video calls.

In addition, another new set of strings suggests that users could apply effects and auto-framing to the video stream.

<string name="camera_activity_button_effects">Effects</string>
<string name="camera_activity_button_select_effects">Select effects</string>
<string name="camera_activity_no_filter">No Filter</string>
<string name="camera_effect_auto_framing">Auto-framing</string>
<string name="camera_effect_automatic">Automatic</string>
<string name="camera_effect_blur">Blur</string>
<string name="camera_effect_face_retouch">Face Retouch</string>
<string name="camera_effect_hdr">HDR</string>
<string name="camera_effect_night">Night</string>
<string name="camera_effect_soft_focus">Soft Focus</string>
<string name="camera_effect_stabilization">Stabilization</string>

It is more likely that the feature has something to do with webcam operation because “auto-framing” is a camera effect.

Auto-framing may be comparable with video calling apps like Facetime, Apple promoted the “Center Stage” function, which allowed the front camera to zoom in and maintain focus on people even while they moved about.

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(Source)

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Technological advancements continues to make our lives easier and assist us in our daily tasks. However, if you don’t use the right products, the situation can sometimes be the opposite. Being within an ecosystem and using devices that communicate with each other is great. However, if you step outside of that ecosystem, things can get a bit messy. If you’ve ever used a Windows PC and an iPhone simultaneously, you can understand what I mean. But Microsoft aims to solve this problem with its new Windows app for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and PCs. Here are the details…

Microsoft’s New Windows App Unveiled

Microsoft has developed a new Windows app for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Windows, and web browsers. This app essentially replaces the previous Windows 365 and serves as a central hub used to view Windows from a remote computer. However, the preview version is currently not available on Android.

As a result, users can access, control, and use their remote devices even when they are not constantly at their computers. Establishing communication between Windows and iPhone has, until now, been quite a literal pain. However, this has somewhat reduced the access issue between the two devices. At least now, you don’t have to go through the hassle of trying to access photos and files on your computer.

At the moment, it seems the app is limited to Microsoft’s business accounts, but there are hints that it will eventually be available for consumers. The app comes with a range of features, including multi-monitor support, custom screen resolutions, dynamic screen resolutions and scaling, and support for devices like webcams, audio, storage devices, and printers redirection.

Microsoft has had remote connection applications for computers for many years, but the introduction of a dedicated “Windows App” is a unique development, possibly signaling that Microsoft’s broader goal of transitioning Windows entirely to the cloud is still in progress.

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Microsoft is adding new capabilities to the Windows Photos app, such as the ability to instantly remove backgrounds from images. Version 2023.11110.8002.0 of the Photos app for Windows is currently available to Windows Insiders and enhances several aspects of the current experience.

The main attraction here is background removal, which was brought to Microsoft Paint a few weeks ago and is now available in Windows Photos. Windows Photos has the same one-click automated background removal feature as other photo editing programs.

Background Remove and Replace

The generated photos may be saved or copied to the clipboard, and the backdrop can be changed to a solid colour. Most of the time, the results won’t be flawless, but it’s always a good idea to have as many features as possible in Microsoft programs that are pre-configured for common daily chores like browsing the internet or viewing images.

Using a solid colour in place of the chosen backdrop is an additional choice. To choose the appropriate colour, use the colour picker. You may specify the RGB values, click on the palette, or input a hex colour code.

Filmstrip

Windows has also redesigned the Filmstrap. Now, each photo has a Filmstrip of thumbnails at the bottom that you can use to quickly examine other images in the same folder and quickly choose numerous images for inspection and comparison. Your suggestions have led us to revamp the Filmstrip user experience:

• Filmstrip is turned off when opening a photo, by default.
• To turn on Filmstrip, you must press the “F” key or click on the icon in the bottom left corner.
• To enable the best viewing experience and improve usability, Microsoft has moved the Filmstrip below the photo, enlarged the thumbnails, and added a larger scrollbar at the bottom so it’s easier to navigate and select the photo you’re looking for.

Timeline Scrollbar

To make it easier for you to find the photo you’re searching for, the latest Windows introduced the Timeline Scrollbar to all folders and made it dynamically based on the time range of your photo collection.

Share Individual Photos with OneDrive

Another feature that Windows implemented is the option to share a OneDrive-backed photo. All you have to do is right-click an image and choose Share, Using OneDrive. The URL can be copied to the clipboard or sent via email.

Other Fixes & Improvements

Windows has now made it simpler than ever to print your images by adding a 7:5 aspect ratio to the Resize tool and moving the Print button to the top command bar when viewing a single image, in response to user input. Moreover, Numerous stability and speed improvements to enhance tab switching, opening photos, and the Slideshow function.

Note: You must Update to version 2023.11110.8002.0 or higher for the Photos app to gain these new capabilities. Through all available routes, Windows Insiders are receiving this update.

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Microsoft recently announced the discontinuation of three older services in Windows as part of its long-term strategy to enhance the operating system. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to removing outdated features and services that no longer align with their vision while consistently introducing new enhancements. Here are the details…

Microsoft Phasing Out Outdated Features for Improved Windows

The three services being removed are Computer Browser, Web Client (WebDAV), and Remote Mailslot, as outlined in an online document tracking deprecated Windows features. This information was shared by @XenoPanther on Twitter. Although each of these services once served specific functions, they have become outdated and present security risks.

The Computer Browser service, including its associated driver and device location protocol, is considered insecure. Initially disabled by default with the removal of Server Message Block version 1 (SMB1) in Windows 10, this move aimed to bolster security within the operating system.

The WebDAV API, an HTTP extension introduced with Windows Vista, is no longer started by default in current Windows versions, reflecting a shift away from its use due to the emergence of newer technologies.

Lastly, Remote Mailslots, an Inter-Process Communication (IPC) protocol introduced with MS-DOS, is considered severely outdated and insecure. A high-ranking Microsoft executive earlier this year described this protocol as “disgusting” and emphasized the urgent need for its removal. While these features are marked for discontinuation, it’s important to note that they haven’t been completely removed yet. They will persist in Windows for now, but Microsoft will not invest in these services or actively update them.

The gradual phasing out of these old services is anticipated in a future version of Windows, although Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for this transition at the moment.

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Microsoft is reportedly working on a new web-focused variant of Windows 12, according to multiple sources close to the company. The new variant is said to be a “true” answer to Chrome OS, and it will be tailored for specific markets, such as the educational sector.

The web-focused Windows 12 will not replace the traditional Win32 desktop experience, but it will offer a more modern, modular, and lightweight version of Windows for low-end educational devices.

Microsoft has already confirmed that in an internal memo that it is forming a new team, “Windows and Web Experience”, to develop the next generations of Windows and web products. Job listings for the team also confirm that Microsoft is planning to “define and deliver the next generation of Windows experiences and applications that span across Client and Cloud”.

Moreover, according to Windows Latest, the web-focused variant of Windows 12 is expected to rely heavily on Microsoft Edge and AI. For example, Microsoft is reportedly exploring ways to use AI to make Microsoft Edge more intelligent and to understand web content and user behaviors. This integration is expected to significantly influence the development of Windows 12.

Microsoft has been working on modernizing Windows and decoupling its component layers in recent years, in an effort to create a more lightweight version of the operating system. One example of this work is Windows 10X, which was intended to be a competitor to Chrome OS. However, Windows 10X never made it to market, remaining in the experimental stage.

However, the web-focused Windows 12 is expected to arrive in 2024. It remains to be seen what other features and improvements Microsoft will include in the new variant, but it is clear that the company is serious about competing with Chrome OS in the education market.

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A hidden malware operation has infiltrated the Linux community for a solid three years without raising alarms, says Kaspersky, a Russian cybersecurity firm. Despite Linux being hailed as a secure alternative to mainstream operating systems like Windows and macOS, it appears even the cybersecurity experts missed this one.

This quiet attack particularly exploited a so-called free download manager designed for Debian users. What’s unusual? This software was laced with malicious code way back since January 2020. It contained a hidden post-installation script that set off the malware, complete with comments in both Russian and Ukrainian.

Kaspersky’s investigation further revealed that once installed, the software acted as a Bash stealer, collecting sensitive data from the system. This includes saved passwords, browsing history, and even credentials for high-profile cloud services like AWS and Google Cloud.

Interestingly, the malware wasn’t distributed through the official website of the download manager but had been subtly posted on forums like Reddit and StackOverflow over two years. This crafty move allowed the malware to stay under the radar, essentially weaponizing the community’s trust.

The real kicker is the reason behind targeting Linux systems: they’re simply overlooked. According to Kaspersky, the actors exploited the fact that Linux machines don’t get as much scrutiny as their Windows and macOS counterparts.

While the genuine makers of the Free Download Manager remain tight-lipped, this incident should serve as a wake-up call. Being security savvy isn’t just for Windows or Mac users. The first step in safeguarding your system is sticking to verified download sources. Had users double-checked where they were downloading from, they would have dodged this malware bullet.

In an age where Linux is gaining popularity, it’s time the community revisits its assumptions about its in-built security. If even the experts missed this, what else is lurking in the corners of the Linux world?

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A common and often overlooked feature on Windows is now causing debates as a significant number of Windows 11 and Windows 10 users are facing an unexpected issue with the “Update and Shut Down” option. Instead of powering down the system after applying updates, the operating system reboots and returns to the login screen, causing confusion and frustration among affected users.

Reports of this behavior have surfaced on various platforms, including Reddit and the Feedback Hub, indicating that the problem is not isolated to a few individuals. This inconsistency is inconvenient, especially for those trying to disconnect devices or save power overnight. The expectation that “Update and Shut Down” should lead to a complete shutdown is logical, but the current behavior leaves systems at the login screen instead.

The Role of Fast Startup Feature in ‘Update and Shut Down’ Misbehavior

A former Microsoft developer offered insights into potential reasons behind this behavior. One possible cause is the Fast Startup feature, which is meant to accelerate boot times. During the shutdown process, Fast Startup stores system data to a file, inadvertently triggering a restart during update installation instead of a full shutdown.

Additionally, if a system hasn’t been updated for a while or a previous update was incomplete, Windows 10 or 11 might require a restart to finalize the installation. Consequently, selecting “Update and Shut Down” may not deliver the expected outcome, leading to a reboot instead.

This issue isn’t exclusive to Windows 11 and 10, as users have also reported encountering it in Windows 7 and 8. While there is no official confirmation from Microsoft regarding future fixes, improvements in the command’s wording could be expected to alleviate the confusion surrounding the feature.

In the meantime, users are advised to be cautious when using the “Update and Shut Down” option and consider manual restarts if a complete shutdown is necessary.

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Microsoft has been working for a long time to bring an AI assistant to Windows. They first tried this in January 2015 with Cortana, but it wasn’t successful. Cortana was shut down recently, after eight years. However, inspired by the AI trend started by ChatGPT, Microsoft decided to try again. They began working on a feature called Windows Copilot. Now, they have released an early preview of Windows Copilot. Here are the details…

What are the benefits of using Windows Copilot?

When Cortana was first announced, many people were excited about the idea of having an AI assistant to help them with their daily tasks. However, the technology wasn’t quite there yet, and Cortana never lived up to its full potential. Now, Microsoft is trying again with Windows Copilot.

This new AI assistant is currently in preview for Windows 11 Dev Channel Insiders. Copilot is designed to provide real-time assistance, helping users with tasks like writing code, composing emails, and creating presentations. The assistant can be accessed by clicking on a taskbar button or using the keyboard shortcut WIN + C.

Once activated, Windows Copilot will appear as a panel on the side of the screen. Users can then give commands to the assistant, such as “type ‘hello world'” or “open Microsoft Edge.” The assistant will then take care of the rest, automatically typing or opening the requested item. In addition to providing real-time assistance, Windows Copilot can also learn from users’ habits and preferences over time.

This means that the assistant will become more accurate and helpful as it is used more. Windows Copilot is still in the early preview stages, but it has the potential to be a powerful productivity tool. The assistant is particularly useful for people who are new to Windows or who have difficulty using a computer.

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Apple Music has recently released an update for its Windows version, addressing long-standing user complaints about the app’s simplicity. The latest version, 1.3.0.54 (1.768.13825.0), introduces an exciting new feature – scrolling lyrics. This addition has been met with great enthusiasm by Windows users, who have been eagerly awaiting a more enhanced music streaming experience. However, it’s important to note that this version is a preview release, and some functions may not work as expected. Users must also uninstall this version to revert to iTunes.

Users can jump from a specific line in the lyrics to the playback progress

The previous version of Apple Music on Windows lacked advanced features, prompting user dissatisfaction. The app’s rating in the Windows 11 app store averaged a mere 2.9 points, highlighting the need for improvements. Responding to user feedback, Apple has finally included the highly requested scrolling lyrics function in the latest update. This addition allows users to view synchronized lyrics while enjoying their favorite songs, enhancing the overall music-listening experience. Additionally, the update now enables users to jump from a specific line in the lyrics to the corresponding playback progress, offering greater convenience.

Despite the exciting new features, it’s essential to be aware of the limitations associated with this preview release. Upon installation, iTunes will temporarily be inaccessible, preventing access to audiobooks and podcasts until a compatible version of iTunes is made available. While this may inconvenience some users, it demonstrates Apple‘s commitment to refining and optimizing the Windows version of Apple Music.

With the ability to view synchronized lyrics and navigate to specific playback progress, Apple Music has addressed key user concerns and enhanced the app’s functionality. However, as a preview release, certain limitations exist, such as the temporary inaccessibility of iTunes and related content. Despite these drawbacks, Apple’s dedication to improving the Windows version of Apple Music is evident, and users can expect further enhancements in the future.

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WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging platform owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), has introduced a new screen-sharing feature for video calls in its Windows beta version. The feature allows beta testers to share their screen content during video calls by selecting the designated option in the video call control panel.

Sharing Your Screen During Video Calls

Users can choose to share either a specific window or their entire screen with all participants in the video call. Moreover, participants using mobile devices can also view the shared screen content. Currently, the screen-sharing feature is available to a limited number of beta testers who have installed the latest WhatsApp beta update for Windows through the Microsoft Store. According to WABetaInfo, some stable users are also getting this update. So if you are interested to install keep an eye on the Microsoft Store.

In addition to screen-sharing, WhatsApp has added other updates to its Windows beta version. A crop tool was recently integrated into the drawing editor within the app. This tool enables users to conveniently crop images directly within the WhatsApp interface, eliminating the need to use external editing tools.

Furthermore, WhatsApp is introducing a redesigned emoji keyboard to selected beta testers on the Android platform. The new keyboard provides an improved user experience with wider visibility. Users can access a broader view of emojis by scrolling the keyboard upwards. The redesigned emoji keyboard not only offers improved scrolling functionality but also includes redesigned tabs for accessing the GIF, sticker, and avatar sections. WhatsApp is also working on a new floating action button design and is introducing a high-quality photo-sharing option in its Android beta version.

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Microsoft has officially announced the discontinuation of its virtual assistant, Cortana, on the Windows platform. In a recent support document, the company stated that the standalone Cortana app, which often goes unnoticed by users, will no longer receive support starting later this year.

This decision follows the introduction of Windows Copilot, which was unveiled at Microsoft’s Build 2023 conference just a week ago. Despite speculation that Copilot would replace Cortana, Microsoft’s Aaron Woodman clarified that the two services have distinct purposes and are not interchangeable.

Microsoft’s Focus Shift: Embracing AI with Copilot and Bing Chat

While Cortana will no longer be available, Microsoft assures users that AI experiences will still be accessible on Windows 11. Notable replacements mentioned in the support document include Windows Copilot, the new Bing, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and voice access in Windows, which enables voice control of PCs.

Cortana’s fate has been apparent for some time. Initially launched as a virtual assistant for Windows Phone 8.1 in 2014, it later made its way to desktops with Windows 10. Microsoft expanded Cortana’s presence by integrating it into various applications, resembling the current approach with Copilot. However, third-party Cortana devices such as the Harman Kardon Invoke smart speaker and the Johnson Controls Glas thermostat have also lost support.

Recognizing the limited potential for Cortana to compete with Amazon’s Alexa, Microsoft gradually scaled back its efforts. Cortana was separated from Windows, becoming a standalone app rather than a taskbar feature. Over the past couple of years, it has largely remained an app on Windows 11 without significant updates or new features.

Now, Microsoft is emphasizing Bing Chat and Copilot. The company’s focus on AI is evident, with plans to move forward with GPT-4, a more advanced voice assistant, instead of relying on Cortana’s basic functionality.

Microsoft clarified that Cortana will still be available in Outlook mobile, Teams mobile, Teams display, and Teams rooms. However, considering the discontinuation of Cortana on Windows and the lack of recent updates, it may not be the ideal time to build workflows around the virtual assistant.

Furthermore, the end of Cortana coincides with the approaching end of the Windows 10 era. Microsoft recently confirmed that the upcoming 22H2 version will be the final feature update for this widely used operating system.

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Windows 11 has been out for over two years now. The operating system, which has been quite successful following Windows 11, brought many features we’re accustomed to from smartphones to our computers. Although this new version increases the number of user-friendly features, similar to those on smartphones, it is lacking in some areas. Fortunately, Microsoft is doing everything it can to fix this situation. Microsoft is currently testing a new feature in the Windows 11 Insider Preview that will allow users to easily share their Wi-Fi passwords with others. Here are the details…

You can finally view all your saved Wi-Fi passwords in the latest Windows 11 preview

Windows 11 possesses a plethora of user-friendly features. However, one of them wasn’t viewing saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords. Fortunately, this situation is changing. Microsoft has launched a new Insider Preview Build of Windows 11, which introduces a feature enabling users to view all their saved Wi-Fi passwords.

Previously, users had to use a third-party tool or dig through the registry to find their Wi-Fi passwords. With this new feature, it is now much easier to find your Wi-Fi passwords if you need to share them with someone or if you forget them. Soon, users will be able to view their Wi-Fi passwords by following very simple steps.

To view your saved Wi-Fi passwords, open the Settings app and go to Network & Internet > Wi-Fi. Under the Manage known networks section, you will see a list of all the Wi-Fi networks that your computer has connected to in the past. To view the password for a network, select it and then click the View Wi-Fi security key button. The password will be displayed in plain text.

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Even though rumors about Windows 12 are increasing every day, Microsoft continues to work on Windows 11. This highly popular operating system constantly receives new updates and features. According to the information that has emerged, the next feature Microsoft plans to introduce is Vista-like gadgets to the Windows 11 desktop. Here are the details…

Microsoft is finally bringing Windows Vista-like gadgets to Windows 11 desktop

Productivity is a key goal of modern technology. Many products are designed to make our daily tasks easier. This is also true for operating systems. Developers like Microsoft, Apple, and Google are constantly adding tools to their software to improve productivity. One of the most popular productivity tools are widgets. Widgets are small, interactive windows that provide quick access to information or actions. They have become increasingly popular in recent years, and are now available on many different platforms.

According to the latest reports, widgets are coming to Windows. Users will soon be able to pin widgets to their desktops, including those from third-party developers. This will make it even easier to stay productive on Windows. Windows 11’s Widgets feature mirrors the now-obsolete Windows Vista Gadgets.

However, a notable difference is that these widgets have, until now, been confined to the left-hand side of the screen and restricted in functionality. The return of the gadget-like experience signifies that Microsoft is leaning into the capabilities they first offered with Vista, including desktop features like Weather and News.

The move presents a golden opportunity for Microsoft to redefine how widgets function on a PC. The capacity to pin widgets to the desktop is set to significantly enhance user productivity. While the Widget update could potentially be postponed to a later version, the prospect of notable improvements to Widgets is an encouraging development. Updates and improvements are likely to be disseminated via Microsoft Store updates for all Windows 11 versions.

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Apple users love the seamless integration of their devices. The iPhone, MacBook, AirPods, iPad, and Apple Watch all work together seamlessly, making it easy to get things done. But what if you want to use an iPhone with a Windows computer? Until recently, this was a challenge. But now, thanks to the Phone Link app, it’s easy to connect your iPhone to your Windows 11 computer. Now, Microsoft has announced that iPhone support for its Phone Link app is available for all Windows 11 users.

How to Use Phone Link to Sync Your iPhone with Your Windows 11 PC

For years, Apple and Microsoft have been seen as rivals. But with the release of Windows 11, Microsoft is making a big push to win over iPhone users. One of the key features of Windows 11 is Phone Link, which allows users to connect their phone to their Windows computer. Phone Link has been available for Android phones since 2015. But it was only recently that Microsoft started working on support for iPhones. Now, this support is available for all Windows 11 users.

With Phone Link, you can:

• See your iPhone notifications on your computer
• Send and receive text messages from your computer
• View and edit your iPhone photos and files
• Make and receive phone calls from your computer

However, Phone Link for iPhone has some restrictions. It supports iMessage syncing, but not group chats or the sending of images and videos. Voice messages and iMessage apps are also unsupported. However, this feature can still be useful as an integrated service to prevent you from constantly switching between your computer and phone. To activate Phone Link for iPhone:

On your PC:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Search for “Phone Link.”
3. Open the Phone Link app.
4. Select “iPhone” as your device type.
5. Use your iPhone’s camera to scan the QR code that is presented in the Phone Link app.
6. Confirm the permissions that are requested on your PC.

On your iPhone:

1. Open the Phone Link app.
2. Follow the instructions that are presented on your iPhone.
3. Confirm the permissions that are requested on your iPhone.

Once you have completed the setup steps, you will be able to use Phone Link to view and reply to text messages, make and receive calls, see your notifications, share photos, access your favorite mobile apps, and drag and drop files.

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Microsoft continues to work on enhancing and improving Windows 11. In fact, the company recently announced that they have stopped working on Windows 10 to solely focus on this situation and that the operating system will receive its final update. It seems that this decision is starting to bear fruit. Microsoft is now concentrating on enhancing the Photos app in Windows 11, adding slideshow and spot removal functionalities. Here are the details…

Windows 11 Photos App Update: Introducing Image Slideshows and Spot Removal

Windows 11 continues to improve with each passing day. However, what makes an operating system successful is its app support and how well it runs those applications. For this reason, Microsoft is determined to deliver excellent performance and introduce new features within its apps. In line with this commitment, the company is now focusing on enhancing the Photos app by integrating slideshow and spot removal functionalities.

Slideshow

The new Slideshow Feature on Windows 11 Photos App allows users to view a collection of photos and videos, complete with captivating animations, transitions, and looping. To further personalize the experience, users can add background music, choosing from various themes such as Chill, Fun, Energetic, and Sentimental. User-friendly controls like play/pause, previous image, and full-screen view are also available.

Timeline

A while ago, Microsoft made a significant mistake by removing the timeline feature from the Photos app in Windows 11. However, this feature is quite important for many people. Fortunately, the new update brings this feature back. The returning timeline allows users to view their library of images and videos chronologically. As a result, users can more easily find their photos by checking specific date ranges.

Spot Removal

The photos we have serve as the biggest reminders of our precious moments in the past. However, photos don’t always provide the best representation of these valuable memories. The odd-looking man in the background, the Starbucks cup disrupting the harmony of the entire scenery, or an object that shouldn’t be there at the time, all reduce the quality of your photos. The Windows 11 Photos app now includes a tool for removing blemishes or unwanted objects from images. This way, you can now remove these unwanted objects from your life.

Note: These features are currently in the testing phase and only available to a limited number of users. It is expected to be available to everyone in the coming periods.

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In simpler terms, time flies, and this is particularly true for technology. It’s been almost three years since Apple introduced the Silicon M1 processor, which many still consider new. This groundbreaking chip and its successors have left Apple’s rivals struggling to keep up. So far, no other company has successfully competed with Apple’s M series. However, Microsoft is not ready to throw in the towel. Recent job postings indicate that they are working on creating a chip similar to Apple’s Silicon. Here are the details…

Microsoft Expands Its Silicon Team to Compete with Apple’s M-Series Chips

Tech companies tend to be quite secretive about their future strategies. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to any hints that might indicate their direction. One potential clue can be found in job listing that relate to areas outside a company’s usual focus or a specific subject. Microsoft recently provided such a hint. The tech giant recently posted job listings that indicated a desire to hire staff for critical roles in chip production.

The positions advertised include custom silicon accelerators, System on Chips (SoCs), and high-performance, high-bandwidth designs. One listing for the “Microsoft Silicon Team” sought a Principal SoC Silicon Architect, while another called for a “Senior Silicon Power Integrity CAD Manager.” The majority of these positions are part of the Microsoft Silicon Team, which is responsible for developing silicon components for products like Azure, Xbox, Surface, and HoloLens.

According to some claims, the company’s new acquisitions are not for strengthening existing teams. Speculation suggests that Windows 12 is part of Microsoft’s Windows Core project, aiming to create a modular version of the operating system that can work across multiple form factors. The goal is believed to be targeting computers with ARM processors. There have been rumors circulating for a while that the new Surface models will come with ARM processors, similar to Apple’s M-series. This development has reinforced these rumors.

In the past, the company has introduced ARM-powered Surface devices and versions of Windows 11 that work with these processors. However, these attempts didn’t go beyond simple trials. We hope that the job postings published by the company are indeed related to this area, and in the future, we will see ARM-powered Windows computers that can compete with Mac models.

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Software updates are very important in the tech world, giving our devices new features, better performance, and protection from new threats. Microsoft understands the significance of updates and often releases new ones to improve the Windows experience. However, until recently, these updates had to be manually installed, causing delays in the process. Realizing that users were postponing updates, the company introduced Windows Autopatch last July as a solution. Since then, this highly effective tool has reportedly saved over a million dollars. Here are the details…

Microsoft says it saved over a million dollars with Windows Autopatch

Microsoft has recently released its May 2023 Windows Autopatch update, which brings various improvements to the operating system. However, the company’s real success lies in the method of updating itself. Microsoft claims that using their cloud-based Autopatch system can save companies time, money, and effort. But what exactly is Windows Autopatch?

Windows Autopatch is a software developed by Microsoft for Windows users. It automatically downloads and installs updates for the operating system, ensuring that the system remains up-to-date and secure. A recent commissioned report has highlighted the effectiveness of this feature, showing that businesses can save between 50-95% of their resources by adopting this new technology.

Autopatch has helped Microsoft save over a million dollars, with $848 thousand in efficiency gains and almost $500 thousand in savings for on-site infrastructure. These numbers are already amazing, but the study also mentions some benefits that can’t be measured, which means the real impact of Windows Autopatch could be even bigger than we know.

Surely, Windows Autopatch, is a big deal in the world of software updates. The new cloud auto-patching technology has made resource management better and saved millions of dollars. With the potential to make updates better for both users and businesses, Autopatch is definitely an update you should know about.

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Microsoft has been making efforts to bring back some of the classic features to the Windows 11 Taskbar, much to the delight of many long-time users of the operating system. Recently, the company added the ability to show seconds in the system tray and re-added the ability to launch the Task Manager by right-clicking anywhere on the Taskbar. Now, the company is working on bringing back two more highly requested features to the Taskbar: “never combine” and “show app labels.”

These features are important for users who prefer the old-school method of manually managing the position of running apps on the Taskbar and being able to see the titles of running apps. The latest Windows 11 preview builds now have a functional version of these features, which are currently in a hidden state but are expected to be released in an official Windows 11 update later this year.

Microsoft has been rebuilding the Taskbar on Windows 11 from the ground up, which is why many classic Taskbar features were absent from the first two releases of Windows 11. However, the company has been listening to user feedback and working on adding back older features that have been requested the most.

A video from Albacore on Twitter shows that the Windows 11 Taskbar looks just like it did on previous versions of Windows when the “show app label” is enabled. This news should excite users who prefer the classic Taskbar experience and want to see it return to Windows 11.

Overall, Microsoft’s efforts to bring back classic features to the Taskbar are a positive step towards improving the user experience on Windows 11. While not all classic features will make a return, it is encouraging to see that Microsoft is working on features that users have been asking for the most. As the company continues to build out the new Taskbar, we can expect more exciting developments in the future.

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Microsoft’s Windows Insiders program members were in for a treat when the company announced that they would be receiving free USB drives to perform clean installs of Windows 11. These drives are now arriving in some users’ mailboxes ahead of the originally estimated shipping time of six to eight weeks. Here are the details…

Windows Insiders Get USB Drives for Windows 11 Clean Installs Sooner Than Expected

A Twitter user named Noah posted a picture of his USB drive, which proudly displays the Windows Insider logo. Noah shared that the drive offers a spacious 64GB of storage. It appears that Microsoft is delivering these drives faster than previously thought.

The decision to send out these USB drives came when Microsoft introduced the Canary Channel. Insiders using the Dev build were automatically updated to the Canary Channel, requiring a clean install of Windows 11 for those who wanted to remain on the Dev builds. These drives make it easier for users to perform the installation.

Microsoft’s prompt delivery of the USB drives demonstrates its commitment to the Windows Insiders program and its desire to provide a seamless transition for users who prefer to stay with the Dev builds. This move not only simplifies the installation process but also enhances user experience and satisfaction.

As more Windows Insiders receive their USB drives, it’s likely that the number of clean Windows 11 installs will increase, expanding the Dev channel’s user base. The community’s reaction to the new features and updates in the operating system is yet to be seen, but the quick delivery of these drives is a positive sign for the Windows Insiders program.

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Rumors about Microsoft’s upcoming Windows 12 operating system are buzzing, as leaks of its system requirements surface. Just two years after Windows 11’s release, the company seems to be gearing up for its successor. Windows 12 is expected to bring major platform upgrades, modernizing the OS with AI, quicker updates, and enhanced security. Here are the details…

Microsoft plans major platform upgrades for “Windows 12” that will modernize the OS with AI, faster updates, and better security

For years, Microsoft aimed to modernize the Windows platform. Windows Core OS was an attempt to create a lightweight, secure, and fast-to-update platform. However, Microsoft never launched a version for traditional PC form factors. Windows 10X, the last attempt, was canceled in 2021 after extensive testing and development.

Sources familiar with Microsoft’s plans indicate that the company is working on a new project called CorePC. This project intends to modernize the Windows platform with similar innovations as Windows Core OS, but with a focus on compatibility for legacy Win32 applications. CorePC is designed to be modular and customizable, allowing Microsoft to configure different “editions” of Windows with various feature and app compatibility levels.

CorePC is rumored to implement state separation, allowing for faster updates and a more secure platform by creating read-only partitions. State separation also enables quicker and more reliable system reset functionality, crucial for competing with Chromebooks in the education sector. Microsoft’s approach with CorePC is to deconstruct the full Windows desktop into a modular, adaptable system while maintaining support for legacy apps and workflows as needed. This strategy could enable Microsoft to deliver a Windows version that rivals Chromebooks in terms of OS size, performance, and features.

Microsoft is also reportedly exploring a “silicon-optimized” version of CorePC, focusing on AI capabilities and vertically integrated hardware and software experiences, similar to Apple Silicon. AI-driven features under development include context-aware prompts, object and text recognition within images, and dedicated hardware support for specific AI functions. As plans and features may change before the launch, tech enthusiasts and industry experts eagerly await further announcements and developments regarding the much-anticipated Windows 12.

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Microsoft is reportedly in the process of developing a modern version of Windows that promises to provide better security and faster updates. Dubbed as CorePC, the initiative aims to enable Windows to scale efficiently for various devices, while still supporting legacy apps. The platform will employ “state separation” by breaking down Windows into multiple partitions, similar to iOS and Android, to ensure faster and more reliable system reset functionality, which is vital for competing devices in the education sector. This move could also make it difficult for malware to infect the system while speeding up updates.

Microsoft plans to offer different editions of Windows that support specific features and apps for different hardware types. For example, an education-focused version could have a light footprint like ChromeOS and only run the Edge browser, web apps, Office, and emulated Android apps. On the other hand, CorePC could also offer fully-fledged versions of Windows that support all the current features and capabilities of the modern Windows 11 desktop. Furthermore, Microsoft is reportedly working on a version of CorePC to rival Apple Silicon, enhancing the operating system’s performance and capabilities when tied to specific hardware.

In addition, Microsoft intends to incorporate AI into CorePC to analyze on-screen content and provide appropriate contextual cues. This system-wide extension of AI capabilities could revolutionize the way people interact with the platform. Microsoft plans to use CorePC for the next major version of Windows, scheduled for 2024. Although the company’s alleged plans could change between now and then, the development of CorePC appears to be a promising initiative that could bring significant advancements to the Windows ecosystem.

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Microsoft’s Windows 11 has been out for a while now, but users are still not as satisfied as they should be. Many people miss the customization options they had in Windows 7 or even XP, and one of them is undoubtedly the ability to customize the Taskbar. Apparently listening to user feedback, Microsoft is finally adding this feature to Windows 11. Here are the details…

Microsoft might be working on movable Taskbar on Windows 11 after all

When Windows 11 was released, users quickly requested the ability to move the Taskbar, and this has remained the most popular request with over 20,000 upvotes. Although Microsoft is aware of what users want, their engineers seem to be having difficulty with this task. A senior staff member at Microsoft stated that there were “challenges” with this feature, which upset users.

In response, a Neowin editor wrote an article saying that it didn’t make sense for Microsoft to struggle with such a basic feature. Moving the Taskbar has been possible in previous versions of Windows, and it’s an important way for users to personalize their desktop. However, things might be changing. A Windows enthusiast noticed that the Taskbar can be moved to the top in the Dev channel. While this feature is basic, it’s a positive sign that Microsoft is starting to work on this highly requested feature.

It’s unclear whether the ability to move the Taskbar to the top is an intentional feature or a bug, but it doesn’t break the user interface. With the new Canary channel in place, Microsoft may start experimenting with this feature more often.

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Microsoft’s Windows has always dominated the desktop OS space globally, as the operating system is widely available with many PC manufacturing partners such as Dell, HP and Lenovo. However, a recent trend shows that Windows, the operating system by Microsoft, is rapidly losing popularity in the US, due to the rise of macOS and ChromeOS in the country.

The data comes from Statcounter by GlobalStats, which shows that Windows has dropped to a historic low desktop OS market share of 57.37% in the United States of America in February 2023, a far cry from its all-time high of 92.37% in January 2009. And the trend line does not show signs of slowing down, as Windows is expected to lose more market share in the country throughout 2023.

The rapid drop in market share can be attributed to stiff competition from its competitors, which are macOS from Apple, and Chrome OS from Google. As of February 2023, Windows holds 57.37% of the desktop OS market in the US, macOS holds 29.62% and Chrome OS holds 7.47%. Linux holds 2.55%, whereas other miscellaneous desktop operating systems hold 2.97%.

The rising popularity of macOS and ChromeOS is definitely one cause of Windows’ current downtrend. macOS is routinely found in Apple’s Macbooks and Mac Desktop lineup, such as the Mac Mini, Mac Studio, Macbook Pro and Macbook Air. And with the introduction of Apple SIlicon in 2020, the general public was very shocked by the improved performance and staggering battery life that Apple Macbooks offered over their Intel CPU-powered predecessors. 

In turn, many previously Windows laptop users jumped ship over to Apple for superior battery life and faster CPU performance for their workload. However, the wave of Windows users jumping over to Apple seems gradual as it took until 2023 to see a significant change in the market.

As for the rise in Chrome OS, Chromebooks are normally offered in pre-K, primary and secondary educational institutions in the US in the 2010s. Students studying in those institutions have grown up into adults today, and they are more familiar with Chromebooks compared to Windows devices, and would suggestively buy something that they are more accustomed to than one that they are a stranger to.

In addition, Chromebooks are generally cheaper in the laptop market than Windows laptops, leading to many schools buying Chromebooks in bulk for cheap, or either a typical family buying a Chromebook for their child as a first laptop experience because it is more affordable.

Thus, it is clearly seen that Microsoft’s monopoly on the desktop market with Windows is starting to lose its momentum as competition heats up. And recent announcements such as adding Bing to Windows 11, and leaked documents suggesting Windows 12 show that Microsoft is currently developing something in-house to compete with Apple and Google soon.

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Microsoft has announced today a major update to Windows 11 that the company claims will make the everyday routine easier for users. The update includes several new features and improvements that will roll out gradually to Windows 11 devices starting from February 28.

One of the most exciting features is the new AI-powered Bing Chat that will be integrated into the Windows taskbar. Users can simply click on the Search in the taskbar and start chatting with Bing in their preferred language. Bing can help users with various tasks such as searching the web, getting directions, booking flights, generating content and more. Users can also ask Bing questions about Windows 11 or any other topic and get informative and engaging answers. The new Bing chat is powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4 large language model equipped with advanced natural language processing and machine learning technologies that enable Bing to understand and communicate fluently with Windows users.

Another feature that will surprise many users is the tabs in Notepad? Seriously? Well, Notepad is one of the oldest and most popular apps in Windows, but it lacked some more modern functionalities such as tabs, cleaner organisation and dark mode. With the update, it seems that Notepad will finally get these features and more. Users can now open multiple files in tabs within Notepad, switch between them easily, save their work automatically and choose between light or dark themes.

The Windows 11 update also brings a new screen recording feature to Snipping Tool. Snipping Tool is a handy app that lets users capture screenshots of their screen or a specific area. With the update, users can also record a video of their screen or a specific area with audio and annotations. The feature looks like it can be useful for creating tutorials, presentations or sharing feedback.

Other features that are part of the update include:

• A new power management feature that can help users save energy by adjusting their device’s performance based on their usage patterns.
• New energy recommendations in system settings to make it easier for users to control their environmental impact.
• A new design language for Windows 11 apps that will make them more consistent, modern and beautiful across devices.
• New accessibility features such as Braille display support and enhanced voice access in key apps
• New touchscreen navigation controls for touch devices such as tablets, and 2-in-1s
• Phone Link for iPhones so users can see their iPhone’s notifications on their PC’s Action Center (Windows Insiders only)

The update is expected to be available for all Windows 11 devices starting March 2023. For users who want to try out the new AI-powered Bing, you can sign up for the waitlist to join the new Bing preview here.

If you are already in the Bing preview, then you just need to update your Windows 11 build to the latest build. You can do so by opening Windows Update settings (Settings > Windows Update) and selecting Check for updates.

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Microsoft has unveiled a new feature for Windows 11 that will let iPhone users link their phones to their Windows PCs and access various features from their devices. The feature, let’s call it Phone Link for iPhones, is currently only available for preview under the Windows Insiders program.

According to Microsoft, Phone Link works by installing a companion app on the iPhone that connects to the PC via Bluetooth. Once paired, users can see their phone’s notifications on their PC’s Action Center and manage them from there. They can also reply to text messages using the Phone Link app on their PC, which syncs with the Messages app on their iPhone. But it should be noted that Phone Link for iPhones does not support replying to group messages or sending media in messages.

However, it is not clear when Phone Link for iPhones will be available for all Windows 11 users or what other features it will offer. Microsoft says it is working on adding more functionality to Phone Link over time. For example, in Phone Link for Android phones, users can drag and drop photos from their phone to their PC using File Explorer or other apps.

Phone Link is one of the many new features that Microsoft has introduced with Windows 11, which launched in October 2021. The new operating system also features a redesigned Start menu that centers icons and shows recommended files and apps; a new Microsoft Store that offers more apps and games, including Android apps via the Amazon App Store; support for widgets that display personalized information; improved performance and security; and more.

Windows Insiders can try out Phone Link for iPhones by updating the Phone Link app to version 1.23012.169.0 or higher. To join Windows Insiders, users need to sign up with a Microsoft account and opt-in for preview builds in Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program. Users should be aware that preview builds may have bugs or issues that affect their devices.

Phone Link is similar to Apple’s Continuity system, which lets users seamlessly switch between their Macs and iPhones. Continuity supports features like making phone calls, sending SMS messages, using apps like Safari or Notes, copying and pasting content, unlocking devices with Apple Watch, and more. However, Phone Link for iPhones does not support these features yet.

Phone Link is aimed at making it easier for both Android and iPhone users to work across their devices without having to switch back and forth between them. It also shows Microsoft’s efforts to make Windows 11 more compatible with different platforms and ecosystems. Whether Phone Link will be useful or popular among iPhone users remains to be seen.

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Attention all PC gamers! Have you ever struggled with getting the RGB lighting on all your components to work in sync? You’re not alone! The dilemma of mismatched RGB parts from different manufacturers is a common one, and in most cases, controlling them with a single application isn’t a viable option. Furthermore, installing multiple applications such as Razer Synapse, Steelseries Engine, and ASUS Armoury can slow your PC down since these applications run in the background and sap a decent chunk of system memory. But what if we told you that Microsoft might be working on a solution?

Recently, a software developer discovered a hidden feature in the latest Insider build of Windows 11, which offers controls for RGB components. As shown in the screenshots shared by the developer, Microsoft has added lighting controls to the personalization menu within the Windows 11 Settings app. With this, you can have an overview of all your RGB components, including external peripherals, and easily adjust the brightness and color. You can even select from a variety of effects and choose the speed of repetition. Plus, the feature allows you to match your computer’s lighting with your Windows accent color.

Although Microsoft has not officially confirmed the existence of this feature in Windows 11 build 25295, the developer suggests that it could be in the works. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this information is from 2018, and references to the feature have been around for years. So, while the prospect of a native Windows 11 solution is exciting, let’s not get our hopes too high just yet.

It’s quite exciting to see that Microsoft may be working on making controlling RGB lighting a seamless experience. Fingers crossed that this feature becomes a reality soon!

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NFTs are no doubt one of the most famous things on social media and the internet. Literally, almost every user is aware of this. Many artists sold their original NFTs at very sky-high prices, which one couldn’t even expect. Now, a new updated version of the Windows-98 era’s music player has added support for Music NFTs. Yes, Winamp’s new update has added support for Music NFTs along with some bug fixes and newly added features.

“The most recent version of Winamp enables music lovers to connect their Metamask wallet to Winamp using Brave, Chrome, or Firefox. Then, it links their preferred music NFTs to their dependable player “The business stated in a press statement that was given to Ars. “Winamp is introducing this new capability for Ethereum and Polygon/Matic protocols, and allows audio and video content distributed under both the ERC-721 and ERC-1155 specifications.”

Winamp’s current goals (creator platform, NFT marketplace) come into conflict with its actual shipping product during this circumstantial phase (a music player whose cultural relevance peaked during the George W. Bush administration). According to the release notes, an updated rendering engine for Winamp’s in-app browser would be necessary in order to immediately display webpages required to download these NFT playlists since the existing rendering engine is based on Internet Explorer 10.

Fans of the original Winamp will still find a lot to enjoy here, and it’s wonderful to see that the modernising efforts made in the 5.9 version are paying off in the form of quicker updates. A “memory footprint decrease,” an increase in streaming audio bandwidth, an upgrade to OpenSSL 3.0.5, and a few more upgrades for the essential codecs and other programmes that Winamp depends on are among the numerous changes included in the new edition. NFT support can be disabled either during the installation process or after Winamp is set up, according to a post by Winamp developer Eddy Richman (also known as “DJ Egg” on the Winamp forums).

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Orange Pi, a software company with headquarters in Shenzhen Xulong, has just unveiled its brand-new laptop operating system, which is based on Android. The recently unveiled OS is very much like a hybrid of Windows and Android since, although being based on Android, it has more of a Windows-like appearance and feel. It provides every fundamental functionality a desktop-oriented operating system should have.

The Orange Pi 800 keyboard PC is compatible with the most recent OS version. Soon, support for the Orange Pi 5 SBC will be introduced. The OS is reportedly based on Android 12. We don’t know of any Android 12 SDK available for the RK3399 chipset, therefore that might be a brand error. Next year, the company plans to develop Orange Pi OS (OH), an Open Harmony variant, as well as Orange Pi OS (Arch), an Arm version of Arch Linux.

The company asserts that its primary goal in creating the Orange Pi OS was to give customers, particularly those who were experienced with Windows and macOS—two of the most well-known desktop operating systems—a comfortable and seamless user experience. Due to the fact that it is built on top of the Android OS, its users may also benefit from the wide variety of apps available. We really don’t know a lot right now regarding the OS’s overall device support.

Speaking of the Orange Pi OS’s highlights, it provides a Windows-like experience with a UI that has a similar overall appearance. The OS also has sophisticated and unique privacy management capabilities. It already has Google Play Store loaded, enabling users to easily access a wide range of applications. The company has also stated that they would soon offer a feature that will allow users to quickly switch between styles and themes inspired by Windows and macOS.

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Google One subscribers who are using the Premium Plan or above get access to the company’s own VPN service free of cost. So far, the service has been limited to Android and iOS devices, but now Google is rolling it out to desktop users.

The company has confirmed that it is bringing Google One VPN support to Mac and Windows devices. It is made available in 22 countries across the globe, allowing users to mask IP addresses and block trackers.

Users of the desktop version will need at least macOS Big Sur or Windows 10. While the Mac app works for both x86 and ARM users, the Windows app doesn’t support 32-bit or ARM-based systems.

It’s noteworthy that unlike many premium VPN services available in the market, Google One’s VPN doesn’t allow users to change their location to access or unlock other regions’ media content on streaming platforms. Similar to Apple‘s iCloud Plus VPN, the Google One VPN automatically assigns an IP address in the region from where the user is getting connected.

Google also has independent bodies audit its VPN service. The company also shares the source code for its app libraries to ensure transparency. The search engine giant has revealed that the audit for the desktop apps will be made public in the “coming weeks.”

The company had originally started offering VPN service for free to Google One subscribers with a 2TB plan in the United States in 2020, but since then, Google has expanded the offering to 22 markets, including Mexico, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, and others.

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GPD, the Shenzhen-based consumer electronics tech startup, known for its best-selling gaming handhelds such as its GPD Win 3, and GPD XP, has announced today the GPD Win 4 – the brand’s next-generation Windows gaming handheld that features AMD’s high-end Ryzen 7 6800U CPU and up to 2 TB of NVME SSD storage.

The GPD Win 4 is a Windows gaming handheld console by GPD that runs on GPD’s Playnite UI skin on top of Windows, to allow for better navigation across the smaller form factor. It has a 6-inch Full HD display that has an aspect ratio of 16:9 with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Though GPD didn’t disclose the refresh rate or the type of display (OLED or IPS LCD) used on the console.

As for the performance of the GPD Win 4, this small gaming monster is packing AMD’s Ryzen 7 6800U under the hood, alongside a Radeon 680M integrated GPU onboard for better graphics when gaming on the go. And if the onboard dedicated graphics are not sufficient enough, users will be glad to hear the GPD Win 4 also includes eGPU support on its USB C ports as well, for those who wanted to play more graphic-intensive games on the device with their dedicated graphics card.

The GPD Win 4 will be available with either 16 GB or 32 GB of LPDDR5 (6400 MT/s) RAM, and for onboard storage, buyers can choose either the 1 TB or 2 TB PCIe NVME SSD option.

Coming to the build, the GPD Win 4 weighs around 500 grams, and is built with a matte polycarbonate chassis. The handheld’s overall design seems to take inspiration from Sony’s Playstation Portable (PSP) with its uniquely curved sides along with similar-looking control buttons as well. The console also has a built-in keyboard underneath once you slide the display up, and if physical buttons do not fit your gaming tastes, then the GPD Win 4 also features GPD “optical finger navigation”, which is essentially a touchpad designed for smaller handheld devices like these.

The device will feature 2 USB ports, one on top and one on the bottom, as well as both WiFi and 4G LTE Internet support to allow users to game anywhere at any time. 

The GPD Win 4 will be available for sale in limited quantities starting October 2022, and the device will be available in either Silver White or Black color options for interested buyers to choose from. 

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(Source 1, Source 2, Via)

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Besides announcing the Huawei Mate 50 series at the brand’s September 6 launch event, Huawei revealed today that the brand will be also launching its Surface Pro X notebook laptop competitor, the Huawei Matebook E Go (2022) at the autumn launch event as well.

On Huawei’s official Weibo social media account today, the brand posted that it will be launching its latest generation of convertible tablet notebook laptops, the Huawei Matebook E Go (2022) at the launch event alongside its highly anticipated Huawei Mate 50 series of flagship smartphones. Huawei markets the Huawei Matebook E Go as a beautifully designed productivity lightweight solution that has as much grace as it has in performance.

The social media post did not reveal the specifications or features of the Huawei Matebook E Go. However, it did show the design of the Huawei Matebook E Go.

The Huawei Matebook E Go (2022) is a detachable 2-in-1 tablet notebook laptop, which features a similar form factor to the Microsoft Surface Pro X laptop and Apple’s iPad Pro series of tablets. Alongside the Matebook E Go (2022) is a color-matching folio keyboard cover that features a trackpad, as well as a stylus that magnetically attaches to the side of the laptop, making it easier to carry around.

As for the operating system, the promo image shows that the device is running on Windows 11. For ports and connectivity, we see a Type-C USB port that should support charging and data transfers, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired audio when you need it. There also seems to be a front-facing webcam for video calls, and a rear camera for taking photos if needed.

From the picture, the Huawei Matebook E Go (2022) notebook will be arriving in both Black and White, and the folio keyboard cover will be available in either Black or Rose Gold.

Although Huawei hasn’t confirmed the internal specs of the Huawei Matebook E Go (2022), several certifications and leaks of the Huawei Matebook E Go have already surfaced online.

According to the Chinese tech news site ITHome, the Huawei Matebook E Go (2022) will feature Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 mobile platform, which runs on TSMC’s highly efficient 5nm process and has low power draw with its max TDP of 15W. Lastly, the notebook has support for 65W fast wired charging via USB-C Power Delivery.

To know more about the Huawei Matebook E Go (2022), stay tuned to our coverage of Huawei’s Fall Launch Event on September 6!

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(Source, Via)

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Earlier this year, WhatsApp enabled linking the account to a desktop computer. This feature allows users to make and receive calls and send messages without having their smartphone connected to the internet.

Now, the company has launched a native Windows app that no longer uses the old web-based backend and has been updated to run natively on Windows. The new app can be downloaded from the Microsoft App Store.

The native app is more smooth and more optimized compared to the web-based version. The interface has also been redesigned to look cleaner and more consistent with the Windows interface.

Users will still need to link it to a smartphone account that’s linked to a phone number. Once your devices are connected, you can use end-to-end encryption to send and receive messages, make WhatsApp calls, and more. Up to four linked devices can be utilized when your phone is offline, but after 14 days have passed since your last usage of your phone, linked devices will be automatically logged out.

A native macOS software from WhatsApp will also be released, however, it is still in the works. The WhatsApp MacOS software is now in closed beta testing and will be released as a MacOS “Universal app,” which means it will be built on the WhatsApp iPhone app and run natively on Apple silicon laptops.

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(Source)

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