Charging

Winsage
May 7, 2025
Copilot+ PCs are a new category of personal computing devices designed to enhance AI experiences and productivity. Microsoft has introduced the Surface Laptop (13-inch) and Surface Pro (12-inch) as part of this lineup, both featuring Snapdragon X Plus processors with Neural Processing Units (NPU). The Surface Laptop, available from May 20, 2025, starts at 9, is the thinnest and lightest model yet, and offers up to 23 hours of video playback. It has a full HD touchscreen, AI-enhanced camera, and a keyboard with a fingerprint reader. The Surface Pro, also powered by the Snapdragon X Plus, weighs 1.5 pounds and features a detachable keyboard and adjustable kickstand. Both devices incorporate sustainable materials, with the Surface Laptop using 100% recycled cobalt in its battery and the Surface Pro made from 82.9% recycled content. They provide access to AI tools for productivity, including features like Recall and Click to Do. Pre-orders for both devices are available, with the Surface Pro starting at 9 and the Surface Laptop at ,199.
AppWizard
May 6, 2025
Android 16 will introduce a Battery Health page for Pixel phone users, displaying estimated battery capacity as a real-time percentage. This feature will be available only on the Pixel 8a and newer models, including the Pixel 9 series, while older models will not have access due to product limitations. The Battery Health page will be integrated into the Settings app and will provide detailed analytics on battery performance, including a status indicator and links to support articles. Newer Pixel devices can endure up to 1,000 charge cycles, while older models are rated for a maximum of 800 charge cycles. The feature is currently available in Beta 3 for the Pixel 8a and Pixel 9 devices.
Tech Optimizer
April 27, 2025
In recent years, the belief that iOS devices are "immune" to viruses has been challenged as cybercriminals increasingly target these platforms. Apple’s security measures, including sandboxing, help isolate apps to prevent the spread of malware. The App Store is strictly controlled, with Apple reviewing apps for security compliance, resulting in few harmful applications being reported. Antivirus software available in the App Store, from companies like McAfee and Norton, operates under the same constraints as other apps and cannot directly access the operating system kernel. Users are advised to avoid jailbreaking their devices, enable automatic updates, and take precautions such as avoiding public charging stations and regularly reviewing app permissions. Utilizing a password manager or VPN can enhance security, and those who have experienced data breaches may consider identity theft protection.
Winsage
April 23, 2025
Former Microsoft engineer Dave Plummer discussed the company's shift from paid upgrades to a Windows as a Service model, highlighting the challenges faced after the success of Windows 7 and the disappointing reception of Windows 8. He noted that Microsoft made Windows 10 available as a free upgrade for users of Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, which allowed the company to gather valuable telemetry data while introducing users to subscription services. However, the telemetry raised privacy concerns among users, as it included advertising and upsell mechanisms. Plummer expressed a desire for a version of Windows Pro without telemetry and advertising, indicating he would pay for such a product. He also mentioned that the transition to a service model helped address piracy by offering free upgrades to users with non-genuine copies of Windows.
AppWizard
April 12, 2025
Ray Mendoza co-wrote and co-directed the film Warfare alongside Alex Garland. The film features intense sound design, including sounds of grenades, IEDs, and overflights, which enhances the viewing experience. There is a discussion about the film's narrative, countering the notion that it serves as pro-war propaganda, and comparing it to other anti-war films like Come and See and Paths of Glory. A Minecraft Movie, directed by Jared Hess, follows a young artist named Henry in the fictional town of Chuglass, Idaho. The film incorporates humor and absurdity, featuring moments like a Minecraft “villager” falling for Jennifer Coolidge and Jason Momoa's character charging a child for mentorship. The film currently holds a 47 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Additionally, there is an upcoming episode of Bulwark Goes to Hollywood featuring a discussion with Alissa Wilkinson about her new book on Joan Didion, titled We Tell Ourselves Stories.
BetaBeacon
March 27, 2025
The Backbone One Xbox Edition controller has arrived, featuring a sleek design inspired by the Xbox color scheme. It is designed to streamline the Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) experience and is compatible with Xbox Remote Play. The controller offers USB-C connectivity for a seamless gaming experience on a wide range of devices. Priced at in the United States, it includes a month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Search