OEM

Winsage
December 26, 2024
Microsoft has introduced an AI feature called Recall for Windows PCs, enabling users to retrieve actions or searches by capturing and storing screenshots in an encrypted format. Users can search for specific content using keywords, but Recall will only be available to select Windows 11 PCs. Initially exclusive to Snapdragon X SoCs, Recall now supports newer Intel and AMD CPUs with a 40 teraflops Neural Processing Unit (NPU). To use Recall, the system requirements include: - Windows 11 PC enrolled in the Insider Program (Canary or Dev channel) - 16 GB RAM - 256 GB SSD - CPU with 8 logical processors - NPU with 40 teraflops - Windows Hello for sign-in security and device encryption activated. Compatible devices include: - Acer Swift 14 AI - ASUS Vivobook S 15 and ProArt PZ13 - Dell Latitude 7455, XPS 13, and Inspiron 14 - HP OmniBook X 14 - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x and ThinkPad T14s - Microsoft Surface Laptop Copilot+ PC - Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ PC - Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge Supported CPUs are: - AMD Ryzen AI 300 series - Intel Core Ultra 200V series - Snapdragon X Elite - Snapdragon X Plus More compatible systems and CPUs are expected by 2025.
Winsage
December 23, 2024
Microsoft has enhanced camera capabilities in Windows 11, allowing users to adjust settings like brightness, contrast, and sharpness through Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Camera. However, these features are not universally available across all cameras. In tests, the DJI Osmo Action 3 did not support these adjustments, while an HP Spectre did. Microsoft has acknowledged that some cameras may not appear on the Camera Settings page. In the Windows 11 Dev Channel Build 26120.2702, two new advanced camera options have been introduced: a Multi-app Camera feature that allows multiple applications to access the camera simultaneously, and a Basic Camera mode for troubleshooting. A third option is planned to let users select camera resolution and frame rate, with current options of 1920×1080 (16:9) and 1280×720 (16:9) at 30 FPS available for all cameras.
Winsage
December 23, 2024
Microsoft's Windows Embedded and Windows IoT products began in 1999 with Windows NT Embedded, codenamed Impala. Windows XP Embedded, known as Mantis, expanded toolkit capabilities with tools like Target Designer and Component Designer. Windows Embedded POSReady 2009 catered to the point-of-sale sector, maintaining a consistent kernel across consumer and embedded versions. Windows CE supported mobile devices with various architectures and reached its end of support in 2023. Windows Embedded 7 Standard and Windows 7 for Embedded Systems required special licensing agreements. Windows Embedded Standard 8 did not succeed in the industrial market, while Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, launched in 2015, introduced LTSB/LTSC options with a decade of security updates. A tiered licensing structure was introduced for Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, accommodating different CPU performances. The Base license allowed Windows 10 IoT Enterprise on industrial Arm devices, specifically the NXP i.MX8 family. Windows 11 21H2 established the General Availability Channel for IoT, with Windows 11 IoT Enterprise 2024 LTSC set to debut in May 2024. Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC supports Arm Qualcomm CPUs and introduces features like USB 4.0 and Wi-Fi 6/7 support, along with a commitment to 10 years of security updates. Windows 10 IoT Enterprise 2021 LTSC will remain supported until 2031.
Winsage
December 21, 2024
A game analyst predicts that the high-end console market may not support both PlayStation and Xbox, suggesting a possible exit for Xbox. However, the relevance of console exclusives is diminishing as PlayStation expands to platforms like Steam, and Valve allows manufacturers to create consoles based on its operating system. Xbox is likely to increase its device variety, with Microsoft appointing Roanne Sones to lead its hardware ecosystem. Under her leadership, Xbox is expanding beyond traditional consoles, showcasing devices like the ASUS ROG Ally handheld gaming PC and mobile controllers. The upcoming CES 2025 will feature discussions on enhancing Windows for gaming handhelds. Both Xbox and PlayStation rely on x86 AMD architecture, and the industry is exploring monetization strategies amid rising costs and stagnant user growth. Microsoft aims to align Xbox more closely with Windows for easier game deployment and potential integration of third-party stores. There is speculation about eliminating the paywall for premium multiplayer gaming in the next generation. Successful execution of this vision is uncertain, as Microsoft must navigate regional marketing and distribution complexities while ensuring a smooth gaming experience and backward compatibility.
BetaBeacon
December 13, 2024
The Epic Games Store will now come preloaded on all new compatible Android phones on Telefónica’s network in Spain, the UK, Germany, and Spanish-speaking Latin American countries, eliminating the need for users to sideload the app.
AppWizard
December 12, 2024
Epic Games has partnered with Telefónica to preinstall the Epic Games Store on millions of Android devices in Europe and Latin America. The store will be preloaded on all new compatible devices within the Telefónica network, which includes countries like Spain, the UK, and Germany. This initiative allows users to download Fortnite and other games directly without sideloading the app. Epic plans to expand this partnership, offering additional benefits for mobile gamers and supporting third-party games in the future. However, there are concerns about the potential for bloatware due to the introduction of a third app store alongside the Google Play Store.
AppWizard
December 11, 2024
Google is enhancing its Gemini technology, primarily within its ecosystem, with plans for deeper integration in Android 16 through a new API. Gemini will be integrated with third-party and OEM applications, including Samsung's Reminder app. In Android 16, Gemini-powered features may be available in various applications without needing separate extensions, benefiting browsers, email and calendar apps, clock and note-taking apps, and media management in Google Photos. Additionally, Gemini may support Quick Share for device detection and file sharing. This development indicates that Google aims to streamline user experiences and extend Gemini's functionality to non-Google applications.
Winsage
November 27, 2024
Windows 11 24H2 has compatibility issues affecting Dell and Asus PCs, particularly with shutdown and sleep functions when Dell Encryption v11.10 is installed. Dell confirmed that hibernation and shutdown features fail to operate correctly after the update. Versions v11.9 and earlier of Dell Encryption are incompatible with the update. Dell is addressing the issue by rolling out an updated version of Dell Encryption. Additionally, the update removes Dolby audio decoders, disrupting audio playback on some devices. Microsoft confirmed that Dolby Audio decoders will no longer be preinstalled in Windows starting with the 24H2 update. Asus advises users to manually install Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus if necessary. Users must verify Dolby audio support on their devices and download specific audio drivers if needed.
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