fingerprint scanning Archives

BetaBeacon

December 3, 2025

Google Pixel Phones Just Got a Game‑Changing Android 16 Update

- Google has introduced new screen customizations for Pixel phones in Android 16 QPR2. - Users can now customize app icons with new shape options on the home screen. - Pixel phone users can place widgets on the lock screen by swiping left, with limited options compared to the home screen. - Other lock screen changes include a new low-light mode for the screen saver and fingerprint scanning on the switched-off display. - Users can now disable or reduce blur effects in background elements, adjust HDR intensity, and schedule expanded dark mode. - The update also adds a more flexible split-screen layout, AI-powered notifications, and strengthened parental controls. - Android 16 QPR2 includes the December security patch to fix vulnerabilities and protect against threats.

Winsage

October 2, 2025

Why I don’t use Windows Hello, even though it’s more secure

Windows Hello is a biometric authentication feature in Windows 10 and 11 that uses facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. The author prefers using a PIN for several reasons: 1. Windows Hello is perceived as slower than entering a PIN, with frequent delays in recognition. 2. The facial recognition feature is not reliable, struggling under certain lighting conditions or when the user wears a hat. 3. User experience varies significantly across different hardware, with older devices performing poorly compared to newer ones. 4. The author feels more comfortable with the familiar method of using a PIN, having used traditional passwords for years. Despite these concerns, the author is optimistic about future improvements to Windows Hello, anticipating advancements in technology and AI that could enhance its performance and reliability.

Winsage

August 22, 2025

Get Windows 11 Pro before Microsoft ends support for Windows 10

Microsoft is discontinuing support for Windows 10, prompting users to decide between staying on an outdated system without security updates or upgrading to Windows 11 Pro, which is currently priced at .97, down from its usual price of 9. Windows 11 Pro features a refreshed interface, Snap Layouts for window organization, virtual desktops, optimized resource management for better performance, and enhanced security measures including BitLocker encryption and biometric login options. It also includes advanced features like DirectX 12 Ultimate, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and Microsoft Copilot. The upgrade provides a lifetime license and ongoing updates as long as the hardware is supported, but the promotional price may not last.

Winsage

May 24, 2025

Tired of lag? Get Windows 11 Pro for life for just $15.

A lifetime license for Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, offering a discount off the standard retail price. The promotion ends on June 1 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Windows 11 Pro features improved voice typing, enhanced search experience, Snap Layouts, DirectX 12 Ultimate for gaming, virtual desktops, and an AI assistant called Copilot. It includes advanced security features such as biometric login, smart app control, encrypted authentication, and advanced antivirus defenses. System requirements include a minimum of 4GB of RAM, 40GB of hard drive space, an existing operating system of Windows 10 or higher, and a processor speed of at least 1GHz.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

Got a new laptop with Windows 11 in S Mode? Let’s break down what that means (and how to switch it off if it’s not for you)

Many Windows 11 laptops come preinstalled with Windows 11 in S mode, which restricts app installations to those available in the Microsoft Store to enhance security and efficiency. S mode is beneficial for families and less tech-savvy users as it prevents downloading unverified applications and continues to provide security features like Windows Defender and Windows Hello. To switch off S mode, users need a stable internet connection and an active Microsoft account. The process involves opening the Settings app, navigating to the System page, and selecting the Activation category to switch to Windows 11 Home or Pro. After confirming the choice in the Microsoft Store, users can verify the transition by attempting to download a non-Microsoft browser.

Winsage

December 8, 2024

Last chance for Cyber Day savings on Windows 11 Pro, now less than $20

Windows 11 Pro is available for .97 (regular price 9) during a Cyber Week sale that ends on December 8 at 11:59 p.m. PT. The operating system includes features such as a new interface, advanced security options like biometric login and TPM 2.0, tools for device management, and enhancements for gaming with DirectX 12 Ultimate. It comes with a lifetime license, meaning no ongoing subscription fees.

AppWizard

October 22, 2024

Find My Device on Android is finally adding a much-awaited login method

The Find My Device app has been updated to version 3.1.173-1, allowing users to log in using biometric authentication, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, instead of entering a Google account password. The update removes the 'Don't ask again' option, requiring users to verify their identity each time they open the app to enhance security. Biometric login is enabled by default in this version. Additionally, the app is transitioning to a side panel layout for tablet users to improve map visibility, while retaining essential options from the previous design. The timeline for this tablet-friendly update is not specified.

Winsage

October 8, 2024

Microsoft will add new Windows passkey features, including third-party provider support

Microsoft is phasing out traditional passwords for accessing Windows and its services, promoting a passwordless future. The company introduced Windows Hello for secure login via facial recognition or fingerprint scanning. In May, Microsoft enabled all consumer Microsoft Accounts to use passkeys instead of passwords, requiring a digital key stored on a server and a secure key on the user's device. Microsoft announced a new API for third-party companies to integrate their passkey services into Windows, collaborating with 1Password and Bitwarden for seamless integration. The user interface of Windows Hello has been updated to facilitate passkey creation and usage. Users can synchronize their Windows 11 passkeys across multiple devices, allowing for a seamless login experience. These features will initially be available to Windows Insider Program members before a general rollout to all Windows 11 users.

Winsage

October 5, 2024

Why you should be using Windows Hello to secure your PC

Windows Hello is a biometric authentication system for Windows PCs that allows users to log in using facial recognition or fingerprint scanning, eliminating the need for traditional passwords. It stores biometric data locally on the device, enhancing security by preventing access to Microsoft accounts. The system relies on the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) hardware for managing authentication and encrypting data. Windows Hello uses infrared cameras for facial recognition to ensure it responds to live individuals. Users can choose between facial recognition and fingerprint scanning based on personal preference. Setting up Windows Hello can be done during initial sign-in or later through the Settings app. Users can enhance biometric recognition by adjusting settings for different lighting conditions or adding multiple fingerprints. To add Windows Hello to PCs lacking compatible hardware, users can invest in a Windows Hello-compatible webcam or USB fingerprint scanner.