convert Archives

Winsage

May 7, 2025

Microsoft unveils new AI agents that can modify Windows settings

Microsoft has introduced a suite of Windows experiences for Copilot+ PCs, featuring AI agents that help users adjust settings on their computers by interpreting user intent and automating tasks with consent. Users can communicate in natural language to receive guidance or have changes executed directly. This feature will initially be available to English-speaking Windows Insiders on Snapdragon-powered devices, with plans for broader support. Additionally, Microsoft is enhancing Windows search capabilities and expanding Click to Do actions, allowing users to schedule meetings, send messages, consult M365 Copilot, convert data in Excel, and draft documents in Word. Creative tools like Photos, Paint, and the Snipping Tool are receiving updates, including dynamic lighting controls in Photos, a sticker generator in Paint, and new capture capabilities in the Snipping Tool. Upcoming features for Windows 11 Insiders include a phone companion for the Start menu, AI-driven actions in File Explorer, and a new writing function in Notepad for generating text from prompts. Microsoft is also testing a "Draw & Hold" feature in the Snipping Tool and has introduced a text rewriting tool called "Rewrite."

AppWizard

May 1, 2025

CraftCells: 3D Cell Biology Reaches Broad Audiences with Minecraft

Zaida Luthey-Schulten and her team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign developed CraftCells, a project that transforms 3D cell data into interactive objects in Minecraft. This initiative originated from Luthey-Schulten's research on cellular life, where her team created software to segment cells into a grid for studying reactions in specific regions. Inspired by a conference remark about the resemblance of their software to Minecraft's blocky objects, they began converting imaging data into schematic files for the game. Players can download CraftCells from GitHub, allowing them to explore various cellular structures, including bacterial and yeast cells, and experience a rollercoaster ride along a DNA strand. The team plans to collaborate with science educators for feedback on enhancing the platform and aims to incorporate dynamic elements to illustrate cellular processes and expand the variety of cell types available.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

PostgreSQL 18: Part 4, or CommitFest 2025-01

PostgreSQL 18 includes significant enhancements in monitoring capabilities and new features. Key updates include: - Buffer information in EXPLAIN ANALYZE is now enabled by default, providing detailed buffer statistics for better query performance insights. - The pg_stat_io view tracks I/O statistics in bytes (read_bytes, write_bytes, extend_bytes), simplifying monitoring of I/O operations. - Enhanced monitoring of Write-Ahead Logging (WAL) statistics is introduced, allowing tracking of WAL operations and new WAL segment initialization. - The pg_stat_get_backend_io function provides I/O statistics for specific client processes, aiding in performance tuning. - The VACUUM (verbose) command now includes visibility map information, detailing all-visible pages after a vacuum operation. - The pg_stat_all_table view tracks total vacuum and analysis times per table, and users can adjust autovacuum workers without server restarts. - A new uuidv7 function generates UUIDs with a Unix-epoch timestamp for ordered identifiers. - The passwordcheck extension enforces a minimum password length for better security practices. - Improvements to the jsonb type ensure correct handling of null conversions. - The casefold function facilitates case-insensitive searches. - The RETURNING clause in DML commands now supports returning both old and new values. - The to_number function can convert Roman numerals to numeric values.

Winsage

April 28, 2025

I use this app instead of File Explorer for managing my Windows folders

Windows 11's File Explorer is a familiar tool for file management, but alternatives like Directory Opus offer enhanced functionality. Directory Opus, originally developed for the Amiga platform, is a robust file organization tool for Windows. Key features include: - Dual Pane View: Allows simultaneous viewing of files and folders from different locations, facilitating efficient organization. - In-depth Organizational Features: Users can open multiple tabs within each pane, assign statuses to folders, and prioritize tasks. - Built-in Image Converter: Enables conversion of images to various formats and basic editing functions like cropping and rotating. - Synchronization Feature: Allows easy copying and synchronization between panes, with options for sub-folders and integration with cloud services. - Shortcuts to Favorite Apps: Users can create toolbars with shortcuts to frequently used applications for quick access. Directory Opus is designed to exceed file management needs, making it a compelling alternative to File Explorer.

AppWizard

April 24, 2025

The Gemini app is becoming more like NotebookLM in April’s Workspace feature drop

In the April 2025 Workspace feature drop, Google introduced new AI tools across Gemini, Gmail, Slides, and Chat. Gemini gained two features similar to NotebookLM: Canvas and Audio Overviews. Gmail can now automatically detect event invites in emails and prompt users to add them to their Calendar with one click. Additionally, Gmail will offer Contextual Smart Replies for efficient communication. Google Slides received a new design sidebar for easier presentation creation, allowing users to explore templates and add elements without leaving their current slide. For enterprise users, a board tab in Chat will enable teams to pin messages, files, and links, and a new HubSpot app for Google Chat will enhance workflow efficiency. These features are now widely accessible as part of the April 2025 update.

Winsage

April 21, 2025

How to keep using Windows 10 in a virtual machine after support ends

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Users can run Windows 10 in a virtual machine (VM) to continue using it safely. The tool Disk2Vhd can convert a physical Windows 10 installation into a virtual hard drive (VHD or VHDX) for use in virtualization software like VirtualBox or Hyper-V. To use Disk2Vhd, download and extract it, launch the appropriate executable, select partitions for conversion, and choose between VHD and VHDX formats based on the virtualization software. After conversion, transfer the VHD file to the target computer and set up a new VM, integrating the backup file instead of creating a new virtual hard drive. Users can also reinstall Windows 10 in a VM using an installation medium and the Media Creation Tool to download the ISO file. When creating a VM, allocate at least 4GB of virtual memory and install necessary programs and guest extensions afterward. Creating a backup point after installation is recommended for stability.

Winsage

April 18, 2025

7 things you can do with your old Windows 10 PC instead of trading it in

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and suggests trading in old PCs that cannot be upgraded. However, trading in may not provide significant discounts, and there are various ways to repurpose old hardware. 1. Install Linux: Linux distributions like Ubuntu and Pop! OS can extend the life of older PCs due to their low system requirements and long-term support. 2. Make it a retro gaming machine: Using Emulation Station, an old PC can be transformed into a retro gaming machine, allowing access to thousands of classic games. 3. Make it a media server: Old PCs can be converted into home media servers using platforms like Plex and Jellyfin, enabling offline viewing of shows and movies. 4. Use it as a game server: An old PC can host game servers for titles like Minecraft, allowing for a unique gaming experience with friends. 5. Power your smart home: Turning an old PC into a Home Assistant server can help manage smart home devices from a single interface. 6. Turn it into a NAS: An old PC can be transformed into a Network Attached Storage (NAS) solution for centralized data backup across multiple devices. 7. Kickstart your home lab: Setting up a home lab using dedicated operating systems or platforms like Docker can turn an old PC into a multifunctional server for various services.

AppWizard

April 18, 2025

Marketing ‘A Minecraft Movie’: “blockifying’ the world” and …

Warner Bros. Pictures' marketing strategy for A Minecraft Movie focused on engaging the existing fan base and appealing to younger audiences. The campaign included interactive social media experiences, tactile billboards, and cast appearances at gaming events. The film grossed 0 million globally and over 0 million in North America within two weeks of release. The marketing involved collaborations with brands like McDonald's and Adidas, targeting Generation Z, which made up 64% of the audience during the opening weekend. Local-language influencers voiced characters in dubbed versions, and the campaign adapted based on audience feedback. The world premiere occurred in London on March 30, followed by a premiere in Mexico on April 3, generating significant excitement and engagement.

Winsage

April 16, 2025

Windows 11’s Snipping Tool tests instant on-screen text extraction feature

Microsoft is testing an enhanced version of the Snipping Tool for Windows 11, identified as version 11.2503.27.0, which includes a built-in Text Extraction feature using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology. This feature allows users to convert images into editable text directly from the capture bar, simplifying the process of copying text from the screen. Users can select any portion of their screen and instantly copy the text to their clipboard, with options to customize the output, such as removing line breaks. This update is currently available to users in the Canary and Dev Channels.

AppWizard

April 13, 2025

How to make a Barrel in Minecraft | Esports News – The Times of India

Barrels in Minecraft are utility blocks used for item storage, offering 27 inventory slots similar to chests. They require 6 wooden planks and 2 matching wooden slabs to craft. Barrels can be accessed even with a block above them, making them suitable for compact spaces. They can be placed upright or sideways and emit a redstone signal when interacted with. Additionally, placing a Barrel near an unemployed villager can turn them into a fisherman.