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Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year
Winsage
December 24, 2024

Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year

This year has seen significant advancements in consumer technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, highlighted by Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative in collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, introducing fanless, battery-efficient laptops to the Windows ecosystem. AI companies like OpenAI have expanded their offerings, prompting competitors such as Google, xAI, and Facebook to enhance their products. New brands like XREAL have emerged, while established companies like ASUS have innovated with dual-screen laptops. Accessory manufacturers have also improved their products. The Windows Central Tech Awards for 2024 recognize standout devices and features across various categories, including Tech Innovator of the Year, Best Processor, Best Overall Laptop, Best Keyboard, Best Pre-Built Gaming PC, Best Mini PC, Best Gaming Laptop, Best Gaming Headset, Best Tech Accessory, Best Monitor, Best Gaming Input, Best Gaming Hardware, Best Desktop All-in-One, Best Budget Laptop, Best Business Laptop, Best Mobile App for Windows Users, Best Windows Feature, Best Mouse, and Best Windows PC App. Looking ahead to 2025, advancements in AI, robotics, cloud computing, and potential breakthroughs in 6G and quantum computing are anticipated, with Microsoft focusing on AI server technology acquisitions and developments in PC gaming handhelds and new Xbox hardware.
PostgreSQL vs. the Cloud for GenAI? 4 Things To Consider
Tech Optimizer
December 24, 2024

PostgreSQL vs. the Cloud for GenAI? 4 Things To Consider

Generative AI (GenAI) is expected to transform industries by improving productivity and revenue. A Deloitte report states that 80% of enterprises with advanced AI capabilities plan to increase AI investments. Companies must modernize legacy systems and tackle data challenges to implement GenAI, but many still use outdated technology, leading to costly transitions and downtime. Nearly half of US generative AI decision-makers expect returns on their investments within three years, which may underestimate the complexities of AI implementation. While cloud computing offers scalability, managing costs can be difficult, prompting many enterprises to adopt financial operations frameworks (FinOps). Concerns about third-party cloud services are leading businesses to consider on-premises and hybrid solutions, with predictions that by 2025, half of enterprises will use on-premises models for AI development. Choosing the right database is crucial for GenAI development, with PostgreSQL being a strong option due to its extensibility, seamless integration, open-source benefits, and deployment flexibility. Successful GenAI strategies focus on rapid development, cost-effective failures, and effective scaling, with Percona offering support to help organizations achieve these goals.
PostgreSQL Tips: Installing the PostgreSQL Client
Tech Optimizer
December 20, 2024

PostgreSQL Tips: Installing the PostgreSQL Client

To install the psql client for PostgreSQL on various operating systems: - **macOS**: Use Homebrew with the command `brew install libpq`. Then link it with `brew link --force libpq`. - **Ubuntu (16.04 and 18.04)**: Run `sudo apt-get install postgresql-client` to install the PostgreSQL 10 client. - **Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL 7)**: First, configure the repository with `sudo yum install https://download.postgresql.org/pub/repos/yum/10/redhat/rhel-7-x86_64/pgdg-redhat10-10-2.noarch.rpm`, then install the client with `sudo yum install postgresql10`. - **Fedora (27 and 28)**: Execute `sudo dnf install postgresql.x86_64` to install the PostgreSQL client. - **Windows 10**: Download the PostgreSQL installer from Enterprise DB, select only the Command Line Tools during installation, and configure the PATH environment variable to include `C:Program FilesPostgreSQL10bin`. These steps allow users to connect to IBM Cloud Databases without needing a full PostgreSQL installation.
Windows 11 Update: Microsoft Now Allows Installation on Older PCs
Winsage
December 1, 2024

Windows 11 Update: Microsoft Now Allows Installation on Older PCs

Microsoft is now allowing Windows 11 to be installed on a broader range of computers, including older models that previously didn’t meet the system’s hardware requirements. Initially, Windows 11 had strict hardware requirements, including the need for a modern processor and a motherboard with TPM 2.0, which left many users with older computers unable to upgrade. As a result, Windows 11's market share has remained just above 20%, while Windows 10 continues to dominate with nearly 70%. To boost adoption, Microsoft is expanding the list of compatible processors to include older models, addressing security concerns as support for Windows 10 will end in 2025. This change reflects a shift in Microsoft's strategy to balance security, innovation, and user accessibility, making it easier for users with older PCs to upgrade to Windows 11.
Long wait for Windows 365 Link PCs, but the wallpapers are already yours
Winsage
November 27, 2024

Long wait for Windows 365 Link PCs, but the wallpapers are already yours

Microsoft's Windows 365 Link PC operates without a standalone operating system, booting directly from the cloud via Windows 365. It is currently available to select business customers in Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, and the US through a preview program, with full availability expected in April 2025. The price for the device and a Windows 365 cloud PC subscription is set at .99. Windows 365 Link wallpapers, featuring variations in shades of blue and a soft-glow aesthetic, are available for download, including a dark version, both in high-quality 4K images.
Microsoft is launching a $349 desktop PC that only runs Windows 11 by streaming it from the cloud — is this the future of desktop computing?
Winsage
November 20, 2024

Microsoft is launching a $349 desktop PC that only runs Windows 11 by streaming it from the cloud — is this the future of desktop computing?

Microsoft has introduced its first dedicated desktop PC, the Windows 365 Link, priced at 9, set to launch in April 2025. This device operates exclusively through cloud technology, utilizing Windows 11 via the Windows 365 platform and is designed for enterprise customers. It measures 120 x 120 x 30 mm, features a fanless design, rapid boot times, and instant wake capabilities. It supports dual 4K displays and includes three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an audio jack, an Ethernet jack, DisplayPort, and HDMI. The device is powered by an Intel processor with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, relying on a constant internet connection to function. It will leverage Copilot+ features for enhanced functionalities and is expected to run a lightweight version of Windows, potentially based on the CorePC edition codenamed NXT. The Windows 365 Link aims to redefine the desktop experience, particularly in schools and flexible workspaces, catering to the growing trend of cloud computing.
Windows and Office get smart: An overview of Microsoft's AI services
Winsage
November 20, 2024

Windows and Office get smart: An overview of Microsoft’s AI services

Microsoft is integrating artificial intelligence across its software ecosystem, particularly in Windows and Office applications. The AI assistant Copilot is accessible via the taskbar or Start menu and operates through the Edge browser, allowing users to engage with AI for tasks like generating text and creating images. Copilot is embedded in Microsoft Edge, enabling users to ask questions and receive answers powered by Bing, with options for different conversational styles. The Edge integration offers enhanced capabilities such as summarizing web content and utilizing plugins for travel and dining searches, which are not available in the standalone app. Microsoft's Paint application has been upgraded with Cocreator and Image Creator features that use AI to generate images based on user descriptions, leveraging Dall-e technology from OpenAI. The Image Creator operates through Microsoft’s cloud resources, while Cocreator processes locally on Copilot Plus devices. The Windows Photo Viewer has a generative erase function that allows users to remove unwanted objects from photos, intelligently filling in gaps left behind. Microsoft has developed PCs with Neural Processing Units (NPUs) to handle AI tasks locally, enhancing performance and addressing data privacy concerns. The Designer feature has expanded from PowerPoint to Word, providing AI-driven design suggestions, but requires a paid Microsoft 365 subscription. The Copilot Pro subscription allows for text generation, template creation, and data analysis in Excel, though some limitations exist. AI capabilities have also been integrated into tools like Clipchamp and Teams for video creation and communication management. Microsoft has paused the rollout of the Recall feature, which tracks user activity through screenshots, due to privacy concerns.
Microsoft announces Mac mini-sized PC, but it only works online
Winsage
November 20, 2024

Microsoft announces Mac mini-sized PC, but it only works online

Microsoft has introduced the "Windows 365 Link" at the Microsoft Ignite 2024 conference. This device is designed to operate solely through cloud connectivity, unlike the standalone Mac mini. The Windows 365 Link is a compact black box with 8GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and an unspecified Intel processor. It features a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, DisplayPort, HDMI, and Ethernet, and supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Targeted at corporate clients, it aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional hardware by serving as a gateway for running cloud virtual machines. The device will launch next year, retailing for 9, with a Windows 365 subscription required starting at per month.
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