ecosystem Archives

AppWizard

December 28, 2024

Take Control of Your Notifications with Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta

Samsung's One UI 7 update, based on Android 15, introduces a new "Filter notifications" feature that allows users to categorize non-urgent alerts into groups within the notification panel. This feature includes three toggles: 1. Old Notifications: Filters out outdated app notifications. 2. Background Notifications: Filters notifications from apps running in the background. 3. Minimized Notifications: Allows users to manually minimize certain alerts. Grouped notifications will still be visible but organized under a "More notifications" card. The stable version of One UI 7 is expected to be released between January and February of the following year.

Tech Optimizer

December 28, 2024

Don’t Let the Cyber Bugs Bite! Top Antivirus Software at Low Prices in 2025

The selection of antivirus software involves evaluating features and compatibility beyond just pricing. Key features to consider include: - Real-Time Protection: Software should detect and neutralize threats as they emerge. - Multi-Device Support: Plans should cover multiple devices for seamless protection. - Additional Features: Look for extras like VPNs, password managers, and parental controls. - User-Friendly Interface: The software should be easy to navigate for non-technical users. - Performance Impact: The antivirus should operate efficiently without slowing down the device.

Winsage

December 28, 2024

Microsoft’s wins, fails, and WTF moments of 2024

In 2024, Microsoft made significant advancements and faced challenges. The Surface Pro 11th Edition, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, showed improved compatibility with applications like Slack and Google Drive. The Microsoft Recall feature encountered skepticism due to delays and privacy concerns. The Windows 11 2024 Update confused users with multiple release channels and contradictory hardware requirements. The Surface Laptop 7 received praise for its battery life and design. Game Pass evolved into a complex array of tiers, complicating user experience. The Surface Studio 2+ was discontinued, disappointing fans. Microsoft’s Copilot initiative faced challenges, and the HoloLens 2 quietly exited the commercial market. Flight Simulator 2024 struggled with technical issues at launch. Microsoft integrated generative AI into core applications like Paint and Photos. The Windows95Man Paperclip emerged as a cultural phenomenon.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

Mythbusters: Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC for Arm

Advantech's infographic addresses myths about Microsoft Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC for Arm, distinguishing it from Windows Home or Professional editions. Myths about the operating system include: 1. Windows on Arm consumes significant power and resources, leading to poor performance. 2. The image size of Windows on Arm is greater than or equal to that of Windows on x86. 3. Desktop mode is unavailable on Windows on Arm. 4. Windows on Arm is a stripped-down version of Windows. 5. Arm architecture may face limitations with complex tasks. 6. All Windows devices are power-hungry, and switching to Arm offers no improvement. Key facts include: - Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC typically occupies about 6GB of storage, with a minimum requirement of 16GB. - Desktop mode is available on Windows on Arm. - Windows on Arm retains core functionalities, though some hardware drivers may have compatibility issues. - Arm processors are generally more efficient than x86 counterparts. Myths regarding applications and workload include: 7. Windows on Arm exclusively supports Arm64 applications. 8. Multimedia applications perform poorly on Windows on Arm devices. 9. Windows Copilot can be extended to all versions of Windows running on Arm. Key facts include: - An emulation system allows x86 applications to run on Arm hardware. - Multimedia performance depends on hardware acceleration, which is supported by major SoC manufacturers. - Cloud-based services like Windows Copilot operate effectively on Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC for Arm, but on-device Copilot+ requires specific hardware capabilities. Myths about licensing and development include: 10. The Windows license fee for x86 is expensive, and the fee for Windows on Arm is similarly high. 11. Windows on Arm has limited support for certain Windows frameworks. 12. Development and debugging on Windows for Arm architecture present challenges requiring extended transition periods. Key facts include: - Windows IoT Enterprise LTSC is priced between 0 and 0, offering a decade of security updates. - Transitioning from x86 to Arm for application development is streamlined, with common programming languages and frameworks remaining compatible. Tools like Visual Studio facilitate the development process.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

How to remove your activity from Gemini

Gemini is an AI-powered chatbot from Google that can summarize texts, generate images, and learn from user interactions. It retains both textual and spoken data by default, raising privacy concerns. Users can manage their activity by navigating to Gemini's web app, where they can delete activity based on various time frames or remove individual activities. Users can also turn off activity saving and adjust auto-deletion settings for data older than 3, 18, or 36 months. To delete a chat in Google Messages, users can tap the three-dot icon and confirm deletion. Gemini is the default virtual assistant for the Google Pixel 9 series and is expected to be pre-installed on many top Android devices.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Essential apps for hardcore Android users [Video]

Seal is a minimalist downloader app for Android that allows users to download videos from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram in various formats and qualities. Zerocam is a camera replacement app that focuses on a natural photographic experience without excessive image processing, offering a free version with a limit of five photos per day and a subscription for additional features. Openvibe aggregates multiple social media platforms into one app, allowing users to post to Bluesky, Threads, Nostr, and Mastodon simultaneously. Twine is an RSS app that consolidates favorite feeds into one location and allows users to import collections via OPML files. AI Screenshot Finder helps users search and categorize their screenshots, processing data locally while leveraging cloud AI systems. Crate organizes links, recipes, and videos into custom sections and uses AI to assist in finding saved content. Sponge gamifies file management, allowing users to swipe to delete or tag files, organized by the month they were saved. Tooly is a versatile toolbox app that includes various tools for unit conversions and text formatting.

AppWizard

December 25, 2024

10 Minecraft updates fans would like in future

Minecraft players have expressed various desires for future updates on the game's subreddit, with a thread initiated by user Mammoth-Warthog6340 serving as a platform for these discussions. Key suggestions include: 1. Enhancements to ambiance with additional effects and sounds, such as particle effects and softer rain sounds. 2. A rework of older mobs for more fluid animations and realistic portrayals. 3. Introduction of new village variants in jungle and swamp biomes, along with new trade rules for villagers. 4. A redstone update featuring sticky redstone, resmeltable copper ingots, and new minecart mechanics. 5. An update for The End dimension, including biome overhauls, ambient sounds, and new ore types. 6. A dedicated optimization update to improve performance across devices. 7. Incorporation of mobs that lost past Mob Votes, like the moo bloom and Iceologer. 8. A seasons update to introduce varying weather conditions. 9. Addition of new tree types, such as peach and mango trees, for enhanced building options. 10. A comprehensive environment update to introduce new animals and biomes, aiming for a more vibrant ecosystem.

AppWizard

December 25, 2024

If 2024 proves anything, it’s that mainstream success hasn’t made PC gaming any less weird—and thank God for that

PC gaming has transitioned from a niche hobby to a significant competitor against consoles, highlighted by the success of titles like Baldur's Gate 3. The Steam wishlist charts showcase a diverse range of games, including janky survival games, indie debuts, and obscure titles that gain unexpected popularity. Notable games this year include a survival game with 25 million players, a poker roguelike, and Stalker 2. Discussions around Game of the Year awards featured unconventional games, reflecting the eclectic nature of PC gaming. Despite the rise of console-first releases on PC, the platform continues to embrace a variety of genres and interests, maintaining its unique identity and charm.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

Microsoft posts official uninstall and recovery guide for botched Windows 11/10 update

Microsoft released a new support article detailing the functionality of the Windows 11 feature 'Fix problems using Windows Update' and scenarios where it may not be effective. A shortcut link to the recovery settings menu has been introduced as part of the guidance for installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware. Microsoft updated another support article regarding the uninstallation of Windows Updates, now including instructions for using the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) for this purpose, applicable to both Windows 10 and 11. Users can uninstall updates via WinRE by accessing Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Uninstall Updates. A disclaimer about the end of support for Windows 10 is also present on the page. Additionally, a cautionary note regarding BitLocker recovery key requirements is included. Microsoft has emphasized the importance of system requirements such as TPM and Secure Boot in relation to Windows 11 24H2. Third-party backup and cloning applications are making adjustments to align with these updates.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

3 reasons you get more viruses on Windows than on Mac or Linux

The majority of malware is spread through social engineering, targeting users with limited computer security knowledge, particularly among Windows users. Windows has a larger user base, with approximately 1.6 billion devices and over 70% market share, making it a prime target for malware. In contrast, Macs account for about 15% of the market and benefit from robust security protocols, while Linux holds around 5% and its users generally possess higher technical expertise. Windows allows many applications to run with administrator access by default, which can create vulnerabilities, whereas Mac and Linux require explicit permissions for actions, enhancing security. Apple uses digital signatures and sandboxing to protect against malicious software, while Windows' security features are often limited to Pro and Enterprise editions. User behavior and knowledge significantly influence the likelihood of encountering malware, regardless of the operating system used.