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Microsoft thinks it could stop this dangerous scam forever
Tech Optimizer
February 2, 2025

Microsoft thinks it could stop this dangerous scam forever

Microsoft has launched a new ‘Scareware blocker’ feature for Edge web browsers on Windows PCs, designed to enhance user protection against tech support scams. This machine learning threat detection software identifies signs of scareware in real-time and aims to reduce the prevalence of such scams, which cost victims millions annually according to the FBI. The technology analyzes new websites and uses a SmartScreen feature for global protection, processing information locally without uploading images to the cloud. When a potential threat is detected, Edge exits full-screen mode, stops aggressive audio playback, and alerts the user. Users can report malicious sites or inaccuracies to improve the model. The feature is available to all Edge users upon updating their browser.
6 open-source alternatives to Windows Media Player that are probably better than it
Winsage
December 25, 2024

6 open-source alternatives to Windows Media Player that are probably better than it

Windows 11 introduces a revamped media player called Windows Media Player, which has a modern interface but may lack certain functionalities, leading users to seek alternatives. Audacious is a straightforward audio library manager with a minimalist design that allows users to import music collections and create playlists, supporting internet streams. MPV is a lightweight video player with a minimalistic interface that supports a wide range of formats and allows drag-and-drop playback, primarily functioning through command-line. SMPlayer provides a user-friendly graphical interface on top of MPV, enhancing usability with features like dual subtitle support and internet streaming, while remaining compatible with various formats and codecs. Clementine offers advanced music management with an intuitive interface that organizes tracks and generates playlists based on listening habits, integrating with internet services for streaming music and radio. MPC-HC is a lightweight media player known for extensive codec support, offering features like subtitle support, playback position saving, and content streaming from platforms like YouTube. VLC Media Player is renowned for its versatility, supporting virtually every audio and video format, including DVD playback, and can search for subtitles online, making it a top choice for media playback across platforms.
Asus, Dell confirm new issues in Windows 11 24H2 update, including shutdown bug
Winsage
November 27, 2024

Asus, Dell confirm new issues in Windows 11 24H2 update, including shutdown bug

Windows 11 24H2 has compatibility issues affecting Dell and Asus PCs, particularly with shutdown and sleep functions when Dell Encryption v11.10 is installed. Dell confirmed that hibernation and shutdown features fail to operate correctly after the update. Versions v11.9 and earlier of Dell Encryption are incompatible with the update. Dell is addressing the issue by rolling out an updated version of Dell Encryption. Additionally, the update removes Dolby audio decoders, disrupting audio playback on some devices. Microsoft confirmed that Dolby Audio decoders will no longer be preinstalled in Windows starting with the 24H2 update. Asus advises users to manually install Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus if necessary. Users must verify Dolby audio support on their devices and download specific audio drivers if needed.
Chrome for Android can now read you articles while you use other apps
AppWizard
October 19, 2024

Chrome for Android can now read you articles while you use other apps

Google has updated the "Listen to this page" feature in its Chrome browser for Android, adding background playback support in version 130. This allows users to have web pages read aloud while the phone's screen is off or when using other applications. The media player will show in the notifications area with basic controls, while advanced options remain accessible through the playback widget in the app. Users can access this feature via the three-dot menu and add a shortcut next to the address bar in Chrome settings.
‘Listen to this page’ in Chrome for Android gets background playback
AppWizard
October 18, 2024

‘Listen to this page’ in Chrome for Android gets background playback

Google has updated Chrome's "Listen to this page" feature with support for background playback, allowing users to listen to audio content while using other applications. This feature was introduced in Chrome 130, enabling users to exit the browser without interrupting playback. The media player now appears in notifications, offering controls for rewinding, skipping audio, and a scrubber timeline. Users can customize playback speed, choose from ten voices, and enable features like "Highlight text & auto scroll." A new play button can be added for easier access. The rollout of Chrome 130 for Android is currently underway.
Nintendo 3DS runs Windows 95 via DOSBox — but takes hours to boot | Tom's Hardware
Winsage
October 17, 2024

Nintendo 3DS runs Windows 95 via DOSBox — but takes hours to boot | Tom’s Hardware

A tech enthusiast successfully installed Windows 95 on a homebrew Nintendo 3DS using a DOSBox port. The New Nintendo 3DS, with its enhanced RAM and processing power, was capable of running the operating system, which was designed for systems with as little as 4MB of RAM. The installation took approximately five minutes, but initial loading times were lengthy. Mouse input support via Touch became functional only after Windows 95 launched. Audio playback was possible, but attempts to use music studio software resulted in a bluescreen error. The setup functioned adequately for basic tasks, suggesting lighter applications might work better. It is recommended to explore older DOS titles for a more seamless experience.
6 Apps That Play Hi-Res Audio At Full Quality On Android - SlashGear
AppWizard
September 18, 2024

6 Apps That Play Hi-Res Audio At Full Quality On Android – SlashGear

High-resolution digital audio (hi-res audio) refers to recordings that exceed the CD standard of 16-bit/44.1kHz. Major subscription music streaming services like Tidal, Apple Music, and Amazon Music Unlimited now emphasize hi-res audio, while Spotify has yet to provide it. Android devices lacked native support for hi-res playback until the release of Android 14 in 2023, which allowed playback exceeding 24-bit/48kHz. USB Audio Player PRO (UAPP) is a flexible app for hi-res audio on Android, supporting bit-perfect playback and streaming from DLNA servers. Tidal supports hi-res playback natively in its Android app and has transitioned to FLAC for hi-res titles. Amazon Music Unlimited offers a large library of hi-res titles and displays DAC output information but lacks clarity on bit-perfect playback support. Apple Music supports hi-res content since May 2021, requiring users to opt in due to file size and bandwidth demands. Neutron Music Player provides advanced audio features and DSP effects for local and network playback, while Poweramp Music Player is known for its extensive format support and customization options but may complicate achieving bit-perfect playback.
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