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Tech Optimizer
February 22, 2025
Mindbody utilizes a cloud-based platform for the fitness and wellness industry, offering services such as client booking, scheduling, payments, marketing, and analytics. Their email marketing platform is built on an Aurora PostgreSQL cluster, currently at version 13.8, with a size of approximately 17 TB and a workload distribution of 80% reads and 20% writes. Mindbody faced scaling and performance challenges due to architectural limitations and increasing data demands, leading to all workloads being directed to the writer node. The average BufferCacheHitRatio was below 80%, indicating frequent disk access rather than cache hits, contributing to higher query latencies and I/O costs. To address these issues, Mindbody adopted Aurora Optimized Reads, which enhances caching capacity and improves latency and throughput for I/O-intensive workloads. Transitioning required upgrading the database cluster to version 14.9 or higher, and extensive testing was conducted in a proof-of-concept environment. The upgrade process involved a blue/green deployment strategy to minimize production disruption. After implementing Aurora Optimized Reads, Mindbody experienced significant performance improvements, including a 50% reduction in average daily CPU utilization and a 90% reduction in ReadIOPS. The AuroraOptimizedReadsCacheHitRatio indicated that 85% of read requests were served from the optimized cache. Cost analysis revealed a 23% reduction in monthly Aurora costs post-transition, with potential for further savings by downsizing instances.
Winsage
February 22, 2025
A new Drag Tray feature allows users to share files by dragging them to a tray at the top of the screen, simplifying the sharing process. The Start menu can now be customized with a Grid view or a Category view for easier navigation. Windows Search has been updated to allow users to find images by typing a description instead of the file name, including images stored in the cloud. This search enhancement is currently available on Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs, with support for AMD and Intel models expected soon.
Winsage
February 21, 2025
Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (KB5052078) has been released to the Beta Channel for Insiders not upgrading to version 24H2. This update includes new features such as a drag tray for easier file sharing, and two new views (grid and category) in the Start menu. Improvements include enhanced text scaling support in File Explorer, fixes for taskbar app window previews, and corrections for Japanese name formatting in Settings. Known issues involve delays in app icon appearances in the Start menu and slow closing of File Explorer for some users. Insiders can enable a toggle for immediate updates via Settings > Windows Update. Features may change or not be released based on testing and feedback.
AppWizard
February 20, 2025
Google will soon introduce nearly 70 new applications for Android Automotive, increasing the total number of available apps to nearly 300. The new apps include popular streaming and gaming titles like Farm Heroes Saga, Paramount Plus, Plex, F1 TV, Red Bull TV, and NBC News. These apps will only function when the vehicle is parked to ensure safety. Android Automotive is an embedded operating system in vehicles, distinct from Android Auto, which connects a phone to a vehicle. Currently, around 100 vehicle models feature Android Automotive, including the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, 2023 Honda Accord, 2025 Ford Explorer, and 2024 Nissan Rogue. The rollout of the new apps will initially target select Volvo and Polestar models, with broader availability expected soon. Google is working with various vehicle manufacturers to enhance the app ecosystem for automotive screens.
Winsage
February 20, 2025
Microsoft has released Build 26100.3321 to the Release Preview Channel for Windows 11, introducing several new features: - A color-coded battery icon with a percentage indicator has been added to the Taskbar to help users manage battery life. - Users can now turn off or snooze backup reminders in File Explorer. - Windows Spotlight has improved visibility for the "Learn more about this picture" icon and includes a "Like" button for content curation. - A taskbar sharing feature allows users to share files directly from applications using a right-click option. - The Narrator's updated scan mode includes new commands for more efficient text navigation. These features will be rolled out gradually, with some expected to reach the general public soon.
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