automate Archives

Winsage

March 9, 2025

Microsoft Weekly: Copilot updates, PowerToys updates, new Windows 11 builds, and more.

Windows 11 24H2 is experiencing performance throttling issues when applications are minimized, but the 0x80131500 Store error has been fixed. Windows 10 has regained its status as the most popular operating system on Steam, according to Valve's February 2025 survey. Microsoft has launched a native Copilot app for Windows 11 and 10 in the Insider program, featuring a XAML-based interface. PowerToys has been updated to version 0.89, enhancing tools like Advanced Paste and FancyZones. Microsoft Edge 134 has been released with improved Teams link handling, while Firefox 136 introduces vertical tabs and HEVC support for Linux users. Microsoft will discontinue Publisher in 2024 and has launched a support page for alternatives. The Xiaomi 15 smartphone received positive reviews for its build quality and fast-charging, while AMD's RX 9070 XT graphics card received a perfect score for performance. Upcoming Game Pass titles include Monster Train and Galacticare, and Amazon Prime Gaming is offering 20 PC games this month. A remake of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 and 4 is set to release on July 11.

Tech Optimizer

March 5, 2025

Digest #162: IBM Acquires HashiCorp, No TCP/UDP, GitHub Data Theft, FinOps Future, Postgres Graph, AWS Config, Airflow, Kubernetes, Nginx, Terraform & More!

IBM has finalized its acquisition of HashiCorp. Concerns have emerged about the security of GitHub modifications, with reports indicating that thousands may compromise user data. A recent court case involving SQL injection highlights the importance of robust security measures in database management. CPU usage has surged by 3,200%. The tutorials section includes guides on utilizing Postgres as a graph database, automating cost checks with AWS Config, reducing AWS Glue expenses, navigating Kubernetes audit log challenges, mastering slicing SLOs, implementing advanced Nginx hardening techniques, exploring Amazon EKS auto mode with Terraform, leveraging GitHub Copilot for Azure DevOps, and enhancing infrastructure provisioning skills. Open-source projects highlighted include Yaak, Telescope, AtomixDB, PG Capture, TFBuddy, Globstar, and Tach.

BetaBeacon

February 25, 2025

The role of AI in mobile gaming: How Android is changing the game

AI is being used to personalize the gaming experience by offering quick and impactful solutions. AI game development is not feared by the industry, but rather embraced to enhance games while retaining a human touch. AI technology is also helping boost retention and engagement in mobile gaming by improving specific criteria such as retention ratio, engagement, and player spending. AI monetization is driven by a targeted approach to match players with their preferred in-game items, transforming the way we experience mobile games.

Winsage

February 21, 2025

Windows 11 24H2 RDP hangs on login, RDP session connecting issues reported

Windows 11 has a significant issue affecting Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) sessions during the login phase, potentially linked to the Windows 11 24H2 update or recent security updates KB5050094 and KB5051987. Administrators have reported difficulties in establishing RDP connections since the rollout of the 24H2 update, with issues persisting even when the RDP service is operational and firewall configurations are correct. Users have noted that changing the default RDP port from 3389 may resolve connection issues for some, although this workaround is not universally effective. Additionally, there are reports of RDP sessions hanging during the login process, particularly when reconnecting to previously disconnected sessions. To address the hanging issue, users can modify settings in the Group Policy Editor by enabling the "Select network detection on the server" policy and turning off Connect Time Detect and Continuous Network Detect. A system reboot is not necessary, but executing the gpupdate /force command is recommended. Alternatively, a Windows Registry script can be used to automate the process across multiple devices. As of February 21, Microsoft has not officially acknowledged these network issues, despite their widespread impact on users.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Rabbit AI’s new tool can control your Android phones, but I’m not sure how I feel about letting it control my smartphone

HP's acquisition of Humane AI has led to the upcoming launch of Rabbit's Android app, designed as a personal assistant that automates tasks and streamlines daily activities. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, Rabbit's agent can coordinate tasks across various applications, such as sending dinner party invitations via WhatsApp, selecting meals from recipe apps, compiling grocery lists, curating YouTube playlists, and creating revenue plans in Google Docs. The app is not yet widely available but will be downloadable from the Play Store, allowing users to prompt the AI to perform tasks in the background. Rabbit faces competition from other AI tools like OpenAI's Operator and Anthropic's Claude AI, but distinguishes itself by focusing on Android devices and everyday applications. This shift to a software-based model is seen as essential for Rabbit's independence, following the limited success of its standalone R1 device.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

5 features the Windows File Explorer needs if it’s ever going to be good

Windows 11's File Explorer is functional but has room for improvement compared to third-party file managers. Suggested enhancements include: - Tagging files with labels and colors for easier organization, similar to macOS's Finder. - Quick file preview capability that allows users to view file contents without opening applications, akin to macOS's Spacebar feature. - A more intuitive bulk renaming process that provides clear options for sequentially renaming files. - Automatic file sorting based on custom rules to streamline organization. - Dual-pane navigation to simplify file management across multiple folders. These features could significantly enhance the user experience and elevate File Explorer's functionality.

Winsage

February 15, 2025

You can debloat Windows 11 in just 2 clicks with this new intuitive tool

Talon is an open-source tool designed to simplify the removal of bloatware from Windows 11, allowing users to enhance system performance with minimal effort. It automates the debloating process by removing pre-installed software such as Clipchamp, LinkedIn, and Microsoft News, targeting non-tech-savvy users. While it offers some customization options, it primarily follows a preset script for ease of use. Users can revert changes using the "Reset This PC" option, but certain removals, like Edge, will remain uninstalled unless Windows is reinstalled. Talon is compatible with Windows 11 Home and Pro versions, but not guaranteed for Insider Builds. It is open-source and available on GitHub, with community contributions reviewed for security.

Winsage

February 13, 2025

Power Automate vs RoboTask: Here’s what you should use to automate your PC

Power Automate and RoboTask are automation tools for Windows 11 users that aim to simplify repetitive tasks with minimal coding. Power Automate is developed by Microsoft and is pre-installed with Windows 11, offering many features at no additional charge, while RoboTask is a third-party application that requires a paid license after a 30-day trial. Power Automate has a modern interface that integrates well with Windows 11, making it easier to record workflows, whereas RoboTask has over 300 actions, including advanced capabilities like registry key manipulation. RoboTask can run automations based on various triggers, while Power Automate requires an internet connection to function and excels in integrating with Microsoft Office and cloud services.

Winsage

February 10, 2025

9 tools that will supercharge your productivity on Windows

- Microsoft Outlook is a free, built-in tool for managing emails, appointments, meetings, and tasks, featuring calendar sharing and integration with Microsoft To Do. - IFTTT automates repetitive tasks by connecting various apps, services, and devices through customized applets. - The Windows Snipping Tool captures screenshots, records desktop activity, supports full-screen video recording, and has OCR capabilities for text extraction from images. - Microsoft PowerToys is a suite of utilities that enhances the Windows experience, including tools for multitasking, file management, and keeping the PC active. - Grammarly provides real-time grammar and spelling checks, compatible with platforms like Microsoft Word and Google Docs, with a premium version offering advanced features. - Obsidian uses Markdown to create interconnected notes, allowing users to build a personal knowledge base with customizable plugins. - Microsoft 365 includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive, with regular updates for new features and security. - UniGetUI is a package manager that simplifies app installations by allowing users to select and install multiple applications simultaneously. - Flow Launcher allows users to quickly launch applications, files, and websites, enhancing workflow efficiency and providing flexibility as a portable app or standard installation.

Winsage

February 5, 2025

How to schedule laptop shutdown on Windows

Automating routine tasks on a laptop can save time, enhance energy efficiency, and extend device lifespan. One useful function is scheduling a shutdown, which is beneficial for downloading large files or running resource-intensive applications overnight. To schedule a laptop shutdown using Task Scheduler: 1. Search for "Task Scheduler" and open it. 2. Click "Create Basic Task." 3. Enter a name and optional description, then click "Next." 4. Select the time frame for the task (one time, multiple times, or daily). 5. Adjust the time and date, then click "Next." 6. Select "Start a program" and click "Next." 7. Enter "C:WindowsSystem32shutdown.exe" under "Program/script" and click "Next." 8. Review the task and click "Finish." To delete a scheduled task on Windows: 1. Open Task Scheduler. 2. Click the "Task Scheduler Library" folder. 3. Select your task. 4. Click the "Selected Item" dropdown and choose "Delete." These steps allow users to automate shutdowns effectively, aiding in managing lengthy downloads or installations.