transparency Archives

Winsage

September 22, 2025

4 reasons Windows Terminal profiles are better than old-school shortcuts

Microsoft has developed the Windows Terminal, which integrates Command Prompt, PowerShell, and the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) into a single interface. Users can create multiple profiles within Windows Terminal, allowing them to access different tools without opening separate windows. The terminal features a split view option for displaying multiple profiles side by side and offers automatic generation of shortcuts for new profiles as command tools are installed. Users can customize the appearance of each profile, including color-coding and background images, to enhance usability. Windows Terminal is not enabled by default on Windows 10, and users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 to access it.

Winsage

September 21, 2025

Microsoft Launches Largest Update for Paint Program in Years

The "Paint" application from Microsoft has received an update for Windows 11 users, introducing a new "Project File" format that allows users to save images with layers and edits intact, similar to Photoshop's PSD format. This feature is currently available for users in the preview versions of Windows 11 under the "Canary" and "Dev" channels. Additionally, a slider for controlling the transparency of pen and brush tools has been added, enabling users to create shading effects more easily. The update is part of broader enhancements to Windows applications, including improvements to the Snipping Tool and Notepad. Users can access the new features by joining the Windows 11 Insider program and updating to the latest version.

Tech Optimizer

September 19, 2025

Surfshark boosts its antivirus offering with a revamped interface and full ARM support

Surfshark has updated its antivirus software with a new interface that improves user experience and compatibility with ARM hardware. The update aims to enhance accessibility and transparency in its cybersecurity suite, Surfshark One, which combines VPN, antivirus, private search engine, and data breach monitoring services. Key features of the revamped antivirus include a detailed protection history, easy access to additional features, and an improved repair function. Core functionalities like webcam protection and customizable security settings remain unchanged, and the antivirus uses the Avira SDK as its engine. The update addresses previous limitations for Windows ARM users, responding to increased demand for ARM support.

AppWizard

September 19, 2025

$1B DEI slush fund: Minecraft extremism study & “intersectional” virtual reality

The Canadian government has invested over billion in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives since 2016, with funding exceeding 4 million across 29 departments and agencies. Notable expenditures include a ,522 grant from Public Safety Canada for a study on radicalization linked to gaming communities, a .2 million award to the Canadian Women’s Chamber of Commerce for developing virtual reality software for women entrepreneurs, a ,000 grant for research on gender and race in Canada’s space program, and a ,595 grant to the University of British Columbia for establishing a research network on parks and protected areas. Concerns have been raised by lawmakers about the effectiveness and transparency of these expenditures, with calls for clear metrics to evaluate outcomes. Harvard cognitive scientist Steven Pinker cautioned that DEI mandates might inhibit free inquiry and stifle dissenting voices.

AppWizard

September 19, 2025

Minecraft Faces a Class-Action Storm: Small Creator vs. Mojang and Microsoft

Kian Brose, a developer and content creator, has launched a crowdfunding campaign raising 0,000 for a class-action lawsuit against Mojang and Microsoft, claiming violations of European consumer protection laws. He alleges that Mojang modified its End User License Agreement (EULA) 47 times without proper notification, enforced hidden internal rules, and coerced players into migrating accounts to Microsoft under the threat of losing access, which may violate EU consumer law and GDPR requirements for consent. The lawsuit is opt-in, allowing affected players to join and submit evidence. Community reactions are mixed, with some supporting the initiative and others expressing skepticism about its viability against a large corporation. The lawsuit is set against the backdrop of updated EU collective-redress directives and could lead to various outcomes, including policy changes, dismissal, regulatory scrutiny, or a symbolic victory for digital rights.

BetaBeacon

September 18, 2025

New Mobile Casinos and Slot Apps for Android & iOS iPhone

Mobile casinos offer a full range of games and features, including slots, table games, live dealers, and seamless payments, while slot apps focus primarily on slot gameplay with a streamlined design.

AppWizard

September 18, 2025

The Tor Project quietly launches a beta Android VPN – and looks for testers

The Tor Project has launched a VPN app for Android users, currently in beta, aimed at enhancing online privacy and circumventing censorship. The app is available on the Google Play Store and operates under an open-source model. It routes user traffic through the Tor network to conceal real IP addresses and features split tunneling, allowing users to select specific applications for Tor traffic. The app is built on advanced infrastructure using Arti, the Tor Project's next-generation implementation, and includes built-in bridges to disguise Tor traffic. Users are cautioned against using the beta version if they face severe surveillance threats, as it is primarily a testing platform.

AppWizard

September 18, 2025

Nothing OS 4.0 Brings a Wild Android 16 Makeover

Nothing has released the Android 16 update, branded as Nothing OS 4.0, which will begin rolling out as a beta for select smartphone models. The update features a more minimalistic UI with a streamlined interface, enhanced dark mode, improved multitasking capabilities, a revamped camera application, and a new AI usage dashboard for tracking statistics. All current devices, except the Nothing Phone (1), are expected to receive the update, with the Phone (3) anticipated to be among the first. Specific distribution start dates for eligible models have not been announced.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Windows Paint just got a major Photoshop-like upgrade you’ll want to try

Microsoft is introducing new features to Windows Paint, including the ability to save projects in a .paint format that retains all layers and edits. This feature is currently being rolled out to Windows 11 insiders on the Canary and Dev channels. Users can create and modify images with multiple layers, a capability previously limited to more advanced software. Windows Paint now includes an opacity slider for adjusting the transparency of strokes with the Pencil and Brush tools. Microsoft aims to position Paint as a competitive option against Photoshop and other graphic design tools. Additionally, updates to other Windows 11 applications include enhancements to the Snipping Tool and Notepad, which now features AI-powered tools. A wider rollout of these features to all Windows 11 users is expected soon.

Winsage

September 18, 2025

Microsoft Paint Evolves with Photoshop-Like Layers and Opacity Tools

Microsoft's Paint application, introduced in 1985, is receiving significant upgrades in the latest Windows 11 Insider builds, making it more comparable to professional software like Adobe Photoshop. Key features include a new project file format (.paintproject) that allows users to save layered, editable compositions, and adjustable brush opacity for improved transparency control. These updates enhance Paint's capabilities, including previously added layers and transparency support. The changes aim to position Paint as a free alternative to subscription-based tools, potentially impacting Adobe's market share among casual creators and small businesses. Future updates may include full PSD import/export functionality, facilitating better collaboration with Photoshop users.