AI functionalities Archives

Winsage

April 29, 2025

Microsoft’s AI Secretly Copying All Your Private Messages

Microsoft is relaunching its AI-driven feature, Recall, which continuously captures background screenshots on Copilot+ PCs optimized for AI functionalities. Initially introduced in May, Recall was retracted due to privacy concerns over unencrypted storage of screenshots containing sensitive user data. After testing through Microsoft's Insider program, Recall has been updated to encrypt the screenshot database and requires users to opt in to save screenshots. However, it still poses risks by potentially capturing sensitive information from communications without the knowledge of other parties involved. Security researcher Kevin Beaumont has noted that the sensitive information filter is unreliable, and the encrypted database is only secured by a basic four-digit PIN. Beaumont's testing revealed that Recall indexed everything it stored, including ephemeral messages and images. He cautioned users to check if Recall is enabled when discussing sensitive topics with others on Windows PCs.

Winsage

April 25, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 shows signs of life: what can we expect?

The upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update is expected to be a modest enhancement rather than a major overhaul, continuing to use the Germanium codebase established with 24H2. A preview build, specifically build 27842 from the Canary Channel, has been identified, and references to GE25H2 were found in the AppraiserRes.dll file, which assesses PC compatibility for the new version. The update is anticipated to arrive in the latter half of the year, similar to previous incremental updates. Concerns exist regarding the stability of 25H2 compared to 24H2, which faced installation issues and compatibility problems. Windows 10 will reach the end of regular support on October 14, 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11. Smaller updates like enablement packages tend to present fewer stability risks, and Microsoft has not officially confirmed any details about 25H2 or its update process for versions 23H2 and 24H2. Speculation about Windows 12 continues, but its timeline remains uncertain.

Winsage

April 25, 2025

Microsoft touts AI Dev Gallery for Windows

Microsoft has launched the AI Dev Gallery, an open-source application for Windows developers aimed at integrating AI functionalities into projects. Initially introduced as a concept in December 2024, it was officially showcased on April 22. The platform provides resources such as sample applications, model downloads, and exportable source code, and is available for download in preview format from the Microsoft Store. Key features include the ability to experiment with AI applications offline and a variety of interactive samples, including Retrieval-Augmented Generation, chat interfaces, object detection, text-to-speech/speech-to-text conversion, and document summarization and analysis, all designed to run locally on developers' machines.

AppWizard

April 23, 2025

Here’s why Snapseed is still my favorite app for editing photos

Megan Ellis from Android Authority highlights Snapseed as a standout free image editing application on Android, known for its simplicity and powerful tools. Despite infrequent updates, the app offers an intuitive interface, various preset filters, and selective editing options without overwhelming users. Snapseed is completely ad-free and does not require subscription fees, prioritizing user privacy by collecting minimal data. Ellis continues to rely on Snapseed for enhancing images and preparing photos for printing, appreciating its straightforward functionality compared to other apps that often have aggressive monetization strategies.

Winsage

April 18, 2025

Microsoft removes the paywall for Copilot Vision, but only for Edge users

Microsoft has introduced a feature called Copilot Vision in its Edge browser, which allows AI to perceive and interpret content on users' screens. This feature is currently free but limited to users in the United States. Concerns about privacy and data security have arisen, prompting Microsoft to take a cautious approach to its rollout. Both Copilot Vision and a previous feature, Windows Recall, which captures snapshots of a user’s PC, are optional and require user activation. Microsoft has made modifications to enhance the security of Windows Recall in response to privacy concerns.

AppWizard

April 14, 2025

Google tests a new home for AI Mode in its Search bar for Android app users

Google is experimenting with a redesign of its AI Mode search launcher, integrating it into the main Search bar of its Android app. This change aims to enhance user engagement with AI functionalities. The updated interface allows users to tap the Search bar while removing the Lens and voice icons. AI Mode was first introduced in early March for a select group of early access users. The new AI Mode button will be distinct from the traditional Search function and aims to improve user understanding of complex subjects by providing advanced reasoning and analytical capabilities. It delivers succinct answers with relevant links and detailed explanations when needed. Google plans to integrate its Gemini technology into AI Mode to introduce multimodal capabilities for more comprehensive responses to complex queries.

Winsage

April 4, 2025

Microsoft unveils a more personal Copilot, leaving rival Apple further behind

Microsoft is enhancing its AI-powered Copilot with new features, including the ability to memorize user preferences, such as favorite foods and family birthdays, while allowing users to control what information is stored. The Copilot will also enable users to customize its appearance and perform tasks through chat prompts, integrating with platforms like OpenTable and Booking.com. Additionally, Copilot will feature visual search capabilities through Copilot Vision, allowing users to capture images or stream live video for information searches. Other functionalities include a podcast feature, a personal shopping assistant, and enhanced multi-step research capabilities, with Copilot Search being integrated into the Bing browser.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Finally! Microsoft brings most Copilot+ AI features to AMD, Intel PCs

Microsoft has announced that all Copilot+ PCs, including those with AMD Ryzen AI 300 series and Intel Core Ultra 200V processors, will now have access to AI-driven features, previously limited to Snapdragon devices. Features available include Live Captions, Cocreator, Restyle Image, and Image Creator, though some functionalities, like photo resizing, remain exclusive to Snapdragon-powered PCs. The Voice Access feature is currently limited to Snapdragon devices, with plans for AMD and Intel compatibility later this year. Upcoming features will be available through the March 2025 Windows non-security preview update, following the November 2024 update, and will be rolled out gradually via Windows controlled feature rollout. Users can access updates by navigating to Settings > Windows Update.

Winsage

March 25, 2025

Windows 11’s Photos app is about to get a big update, and it’s all about AI

The Photos app on Windows 11 is undergoing significant updates, currently available for Windows Insiders in the Release Preview Channel. Key features include Optical Character Recognition (OCR) supporting over 160 languages, allowing users to extract and search text from images. A new "Search in Web" function enables users to find online results for selected text. The update also introduces a Copilot button within the Photos app for image enhancement tips, insights, and framing suggestions. Additionally, new shortcuts in File Explorer provide direct access to AI editing and Visual Search, allowing users to create with Designer and erase unwanted elements. The app now supports JXL files and includes bug fixes for improved performance. Users can enable the "Show subfolders" option to view images and videos from subfolders in the Gallery.

Winsage

March 25, 2025

Two of my least favorite things about the Microsoft Store are about to get fixed

Microsoft's development team has implemented over 150 client-side changes to the Microsoft Store based on user feedback. Notable improvements include: - A dedicated page for browsing themes. - Downloads now appear separately from the My Library section. - Gamers can select specific game components before installation. - A revamped header for product pages. - Enhanced application updates for unpackaged applications. - New server modules and a spotlight feature for home pages. - An exclusive AI Hub for Copilot+ PCs. Rudy Huyn, the principal lead architect, emphasizes the team's commitment to user feedback and ongoing improvements to the Microsoft Store experience.