Google is introducing a new “Activity” tab within the Google app, which will replace the existing “Saved” tab and provide easy access to search history from both the Google app and Chrome. This feature is currently being tested and aims to create a centralized hub for managing saved items, allowing users to view, manage, and take actions on their search history. The development of this feature has been in progress for nearly two months and is currently accessible to a select group of users as part of a limited rollout. A user demonstrated the functionality on a Pixel 7 Pro, indicating a user-friendly rollout process, while the Pixel 8 Pro has not yet received the update.
Timed Silence is a Kotlin-based application for Android, created by Felix Nüsse, that manages smartphone volume settings, allowing users to mute, vibrate, or ring with sound. The app requires initial setup permissions and features an intuitive interface with a pause/play button. Users can create custom schedules, including pre-defined ones for "Night" and "Day." The app effectively activates Do Not Disturb (DND) at scheduled times, muting notifications while allowing calls and messages from specified contacts. Additional features include Calendar integration, Keywords for managing volume levels, Bluetooth compatibility, and a Sanity Check for priority contacts. The app is available on F-Droid, with source code and APKs on GitHub.
Microsoft released the Windows 11 24H2 update on October 1, 2023, which includes enhancements like an upgraded Copilot AI and a refreshed File Explorer. However, the update has several bugs, leading Microsoft to temporarily halt its rollout for certain problematic PCs. Key issues include:
1. The System File Checker (SFC) is caught in a loop of false positives, misidentifying WebView2-related files as corrupted.
2. An 8.63GB update cache cannot be deleted through standard methods, but can be removed using "Windows Update Cleanup."
3. The update conflicts with Easy Anti-Cheat software, causing blue screens for users with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors.
4. Blue screens can also occur due to driver incompatibilities with Intel Smart Sound Technology, certain Western Digital SSDs, and MSI Z890 motherboards.
5. The mouse pointer may disappear in Chromium-based applications when interacting with text input fields.
6. Users have reported erratic internet connectivity, with some unable to receive a valid IP address.
7. Fingerprint sensors may become unresponsive on some devices.
8. The clipboard history feature may malfunction, showing as empty despite copied items.
9. Devices may fail to appear in the network list, affecting file and printer sharing.
10. Users of Copilot+ PCs face difficulties with printer setup and usage, particularly with HP, Canon, and Brother printers.
Due to these issues, users are advised to delay installation of the update until fixes are implemented.
Valve has introduced a new game recording feature for Steam that allows players to record, replay, and create clips of their gameplay. This feature is compatible with both PC and Valve's Steam Deck. The key component is the Background Recording mode, which continuously captures gameplay and saves it to a hard drive, with users able to toggle it on or off. The Steam Timeline interface provides real-time updates during recording sessions, logging significant events like achievements and screenshots. The technology is designed to minimize impact on gaming performance, but users with Intel GPUs may face limitations as the feature does not support these graphics cards. The feature was initially launched in beta in June before its official rollout.
The updates to Paint (version 11.2410.28.0) include the introduction of generative fill, which allows users to make edits and additions to their artwork using text prompts, and generative erase, enabling the removal of unwanted objects from the canvas. Generative fill is initially available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs for Windows Insiders in supported markets, while generative erase is accessible for all Windows 11 PCs. Additionally, the Cocreator feature has been enhanced for faster results, and Image Creator is now available in preview for Windows 11 users in several countries, with AI credits for Microsoft 365 subscribers in select regions.
The Notepad update (version 11.2410.15.0) introduces a generative AI feature that allows users to rewrite content by rephrasing sentences and adjusting tone and length. This feature is available in preview for users in specific countries and requires a Microsoft account. Improvements have also been made to Notepad’s launch performance, with most users experiencing over a 35% improvement in app launch time.
Steam has rolled out its game recording capabilities for PC and Steam Deck users, moving from beta to full availability. The features include automatic recording, manual clipping with customizable keyboard hotkeys, and easy access to replays through the Steam overlay. Users can export clips using QR codes for sharing. The recording functions are designed to minimize game performance impact by using the GPU for encoding. Steam allows per-game customization of auto-recording durations and capture quality, and provides an SDK and API for developers to trigger recordings based on in-game events. The recording features work with any game, including non-Steam titles added to the Steam library.
Valve has introduced Steam Game Recording for PC and Steam Deck players, allowing users to capture gameplay highlights, record extended sessions, and share achievements through the Steam overlay. The feature includes a customizable background-recording mode, a quick-replay function, and the ability to save recorded gameplay in MPEG-4 format. Users can drop markers during gameplay, and developers can create "timeline-enhanced" games that notify the Steam platform of significant events. The recording process is designed to minimize resource impact by utilizing Nvidia or AMD graphics cards. To enable Steam Game Recording, users must update Steam, access settings, and adjust preferences. The feature is compatible with any game that supports the Steam Overlay, though some older titles may not be supported.
