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Windows 11's AI Recall, tested: I like it, but I just can't trust it
Winsage
December 10, 2024

Windows 11’s AI Recall, tested: I like it, but I just can’t trust it

Microsoft's Recall feature for Windows 11 captures periodic snapshots of the screen using optical character recognition and artificial intelligence to create a searchable archive. The setup process involves multiple downloads and installations, which can be cumbersome and slow, leading to potential user confusion regarding saving snapshots. Recall operates only on Windows PCs and requires authentication via Windows Hello. Users can search for specific terms, but the application may fail to recognize or save certain web pages, resulting in gaps in recorded history. Privacy concerns arise from the lack of transparency about what data is captured, despite Microsoft’s claims that sensitive information is not saved. Users can blacklist certain applications and websites and can toggle off the snapshot feature in Windows Settings, but uninstalling Recall requires navigating to a specific control panel.
Google is pushing more Android apps to use the new photo picker
AppWizard
October 18, 2024

Google is pushing more Android apps to use the new photo picker

Google has introduced a new photo picker feature in Android 13 that allows apps to access only selected photos and videos, enhancing user privacy. Adoption of this feature has been slower than expected, prompting Google to enforce stricter regulations on apps using READMEDIAIMAGES and READMEDIAVIDEO permissions without justification. Developers must submit a declaration form to justify their need for broader access, with full implementation of this policy expected by January next year. Applications that do not require extensive access will be scrutinized, while those demonstrating legitimate needs may retain permissions. Non-compliant apps will face restrictions, including the inability to publish updates on the Google Play Store.
5 new AI features coming to Windows 11 24H2, but will you get it?
Winsage
October 15, 2024

5 new AI features coming to Windows 11 24H2, but will you get it?

Windows 11 24H2 has rolled out an update featuring AI tools for all users, initially available on Copilot+ PCs with Neural Processing Units (NPUs). Key features include: 1. Click to Do: An overlay that provides quick access to tools based on on-screen content, launching in November. 2. Super-resolution in Photos: A tool to upscale images by up to eight times using local AI models. 3. Generative Erase and Fill in Paint: Allows users to erase elements from images and seamlessly blend backgrounds, as well as add new elements. 4. Improved Windows Search: Enables natural language queries to find files, starting with File Explorer. 5. Recall: A revamped feature that records user activity with enhanced privacy controls, initially available to Windows Insiders. The phased rollout of additional AI features will begin on November 1, 2024, with selective availability across regions. Copilot+ PC users will have access to the full suite of AI features, while standard users will receive routine OS improvements.
You really don't want to pay for a wallpaper app
AppWizard
September 30, 2024

You really don’t want to pay for a wallpaper app

Marques Brownlee launched a wallpaper app that offers high-quality wallpapers for a monthly or annual fee, with a free ad-supported tier for lower-quality options. A poll by Android Authority revealed that 84% of YouTube respondents and 78% of website visitors would not pay for a wallpaper app. Users cited numerous free sources for wallpapers, such as personal photos, Reddit, Twitter, AI image generators, and Google Image Search. Some respondents were open to a one-time fee, with 12% of YouTube voters and 15% of website visitors expressing interest. The preferred subscription price among YouTube participants was under per month, receiving only 2% support, while 6% of website visitors favored this tier. Overall, users largely prefer free alternatives or modest one-time purchases over subscription fees.
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