user activity Archives

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Microsoft president reflects on 50-year anniversary, AI, innovation and community impact

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AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Mullvad VPN Enables Multihop In Android App

Mullvad has introduced a multihop feature in its Android application that allows users to route their internet traffic through two distinct servers, enhancing online security and privacy. This feature creates a "tunnel within a tunnel," where data is transmitted through both an entry server and an exit server. By selecting servers in different jurisdictions, users can complicate the tracing of their data. The multihop service provides a higher level of privacy and security, as adversaries would need to execute timing attacks across multiple locations if one server is compromised. Mullvad operates under robust legal protections in Sweden and follows a strict no-logs policy, ensuring user activity is not recorded or retained.

Winsage

March 31, 2025

Microsoft expands AI features across Intel and AMD-powered Copilot Plus PCs

Microsoft is enabling all Copilot Plus PCs powered by Intel and AMD processors to generate Live Captions, which translate audio into English subtitles in real time. This feature was initially tested on devices with Intel and AMD chips and is now part of the latest Windows 11 update. The update also includes Cocreator, an AI tool in Paint for generating images from text descriptions, and enhancements to the Photos app's AI image editor and generator. Previously, these features were exclusive to Qualcomm-powered Copilot Plus PCs. Microsoft is also testing Recall, an AI feature for capturing screenshots of user activity, though its release timeline is not yet announced. Additionally, Voice Access is being refreshed for improved communication, with plans to extend updates to Intel and AMD devices, including the ability to translate 27 languages into Simplified Chinese.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Lilbits: AI-enhanced search for Windows PCs and Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

Recent advancements in laptop technology have introduced high-performance neural processing units from manufacturers like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, enabling on-device artificial intelligence applications. Microsoft initially planned to launch its Recall feature for Copilot+ PCs but delayed it due to privacy concerns. Microsoft is now testing a new AI-enhanced search function that allows users to search for files, settings, or documents by description. Additionally, Microsoft is rolling out Local Semantic Search to Windows Insiders with Intel or AMD-powered Copilot+ PCs, which allows searching by description in File Explorer, Windows Search, or Settings, and can be disabled for certain folders.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (Dev and Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (KB5053660) has been released for the Dev and Beta Channels. Updates based on Windows 11, version 24H2, are initially optional for Beta Channel users but will become recommended later this year. Users in the Dev Channel can temporarily switch to the Beta Channel while both channels release the same updates, but this option will close once the Dev Channel advances. New features include the Recommended files feature in File Explorer, real-time translation for various languages on Copilot+ PCs, and a new recommendation for snap groups in the Start menu. Enhanced web search support is being introduced for the EEA, and a toast notification will prompt users to add secondary email or recovery phone numbers to their Microsoft accounts. The update also introduces dynamic widgets for web developers and a new system tray icon for emojis and GIFs. "Top cards" under Settings will provide a view of key PC specifications. Fixes include improved accessibility in File Explorer, resolution of issues with the Snap Bar, and crashes affecting settings and input. Known issues include incorrect build version display after a PC reset and issues with Recall snapshots on managed PCs. Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel will receive updates via an enablement package, and features may evolve based on feedback. Some features may not be fully localized, and accessibility features may not function with certain preview features.

Winsage

March 10, 2025

Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (Dev and Beta Channels)

Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26120.3380 (KB5053660) has been released for the Dev and Beta Channels. Updates for the Beta Channel based on Windows 11, version 24H2 will initially be optional but will become recommended later this year. Users in the Dev Channel can switch to the Beta Channel while the 24H2 updates are being released, but this option will close as the Dev Channel progresses. New features include: - Recommended files in File Explorer for personal Microsoft or local accounts. - Real-time translation to Chinese (Simplified) on AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs. - Snap group recommendations in the Start menu. - Enhanced web search support for the EEA. - Toast notifications prompting users to add a secondary email or recovery phone number. - Dynamic and interactive widgets for web developers. - A new system tray icon for easier access to emojis and more. - New "top cards" in Settings > System > About displaying key PC specifications. Fixes include improvements to accessibility in File Explorer, resolution of Snap Bar display issues, and fixes for crashes in Settings and typing capabilities. Known issues involve inaccurate build version display post-PC reset and issues with Recall snapshots on managed PCs. Beta Channel updates will be delivered via an enablement package, and features may appear in the Beta Channel before the Dev Channel.

Winsage

March 7, 2025

Windows 11 KB5053661 beta brings a new Start menu feature that snaps apps together

Microsoft has released build 22635.5025 for Windows 11 23H2 in the Beta channel for Insiders, identified under KB5053661. This update introduces a Recommended files feature in File Explorer, accessible to Insiders with personal or local Microsoft accounts, showcasing relevant files based on user activity. Users with work or school accounts will receive additional recommendations, though this feature is not yet available in the European Economic Area. The Start menu now suggests snap groups of recommended apps for improved multitasking. A fix has been implemented to address lag issues in File Explorer when closing the application. Known issues include delays in app icon appearance in the Start menu and the organization of Windows Tools related apps into folders. Users can provide feedback through the Feedback Hub.

AppWizard

March 1, 2025

Beyond The 208: Kids use Minecraft to envision Seattle Park’s future

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Winsage

February 12, 2025

3 Settings to Disable on Your Windows PC and Why?

Users can enhance their PC's privacy and performance by adjusting three key settings in Windows: 1. General Privacy Settings: Users should disable the default settings that allow tracking of user activity and sharing of data with Microsoft and third-party advertisers. This includes turning off personalized ads, tracking app launches, content suggestions based on activity, and sending diagnostic data. 2. Diagnostic and Feedback Settings: Users can prevent their PC from sending detailed reports about device usage to Microsoft by turning off optional diagnostic settings or selecting "Required Diagnostic Data." 3. Background Apps: To improve performance and reduce battery drain, users should disable the option that allows apps to run in the background. These adjustments help regain control over data tracking and optimize system efficiency.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

NewPipe Is an Ad-Free, Privacy-Respecting YouTube App for Android

YouTube's Android app is criticized for its cluttered interface, sluggish performance, and excessive ads, while also raising privacy concerns due to tracking user activity. NewPipe is a free, open-source alternative that prioritizes user privacy and removes ads. It allows background audio playback, picture-in-picture mode, and offline video downloads without requiring a YouTube Premium subscription. However, users cannot sign in with a Google account, limiting access to existing subscriptions and personalized recommendations. NewPipe enables manual subscription additions, bookmarking, and supports exporting/importing subscriptions and playlists. It is not available on the Google Play Store, requiring users to download the .apk file or use F-Droid for installation.