user base Archives

Winsage

December 26, 2024

Hands on: Microsoft made it easier to run AI models on Windows 11 locally

Copilot+ PCs are the first personal computers to run Small Language Models (SLM) directly on-device, allowing for quicker interactions without relying on the cloud. Microsoft has introduced the AI Dev Gallery, which offers over 25 samples for developers to integrate on-device AI features into applications on Windows 10 and 11. The gallery requires building the project in Visual Studio, needing at least 20GB of storage and a multi-core CPU. A GPU with 8GB VRAM is recommended for heavier models but not mandatory for lighter applications. The app has two operational modes: Sample and Models. Testing models for image generation typically requires around 5GB of bandwidth, while a smaller image upscaling model under 100MB was successfully tested, completing the process in under 30 seconds with peak RAM usage of 1GB. The resulting image resolution was 9272x4900, but clarity issues were noted, especially with text. The application lacks features for previewing images in larger formats or downloading outputs directly. A model named Detect Human Pose was able to identify positions within images, including desktop screenshots. Substantial storage and robust CPUs are necessary for effective model accommodation, and the practicality of downloading large models for niche use cases is questioned.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

How to install and use Microsoft’s PowerShell on Linux (and why you should)

PowerShell is a task automation and configuration management tool developed by Microsoft, widely used by intermediate and advanced Windows users. With the end of support for Windows 10 approaching, users are considering alternatives, particularly Linux. PowerShell can be installed on Ubuntu-based distributions. To install PowerShell on Ubuntu, users need a functioning instance of an Ubuntu-based distribution and a user account with sudo privileges. The installation steps include updating the package list with the command PLACEHOLDERa1095966424bee75 and then installing PowerShell using PLACEHOLDER0c0553420fe1ae32.

AppWizard

December 25, 2024

Telegram global MAU 2024

Telegram was launched in March 2014 and has consistently increased its monthly active users since then. By July 2024, the number of active users is projected to reach impressive heights. The platform experienced steady growth from 2015 to 2019 as users sought alternatives to mainstream messaging services. In 2020, it saw a surge in popularity due to increased demand for secure communication. From 2021 to 2024, Telegram continued to expand by introducing innovative features and maintaining a commitment to user privacy.

Winsage

December 25, 2024

3 reasons you get more viruses on Windows than on Mac or Linux

The majority of malware is spread through social engineering, targeting users with limited computer security knowledge, particularly among Windows users. Windows has a larger user base, with approximately 1.6 billion devices and over 70% market share, making it a prime target for malware. In contrast, Macs account for about 15% of the market and benefit from robust security protocols, while Linux holds around 5% and its users generally possess higher technical expertise. Windows allows many applications to run with administrator access by default, which can create vulnerabilities, whereas Mac and Linux require explicit permissions for actions, enhancing security. Apple uses digital signatures and sandboxing to protect against malicious software, while Windows' security features are often limited to Pro and Enterprise editions. User behavior and knowledge significantly influence the likelihood of encountering malware, regardless of the operating system used.

AppWizard

December 23, 2024

Telegram founder says messaging app profitable for first time

Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram, announced that the platform achieved a net profit for the first time in 2024, with annual revenues exceeding one billion dollars. Telegram has over 950 million users and has shifted to a monetization model that includes paid subscriptions and advertisements since 2021, resulting in a tripling of premium service subscribers to 12 million. The company has cash reserves exceeding 0 million, excluding cryptocurrency assets. Durov faced legal issues in France related to content management but criticized the authorities' approach. Telegram is using artificial intelligence for content moderation to address misuse, while asserting that 99.999 percent of its users do not engage in criminal activities.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Microsoft Warns Millions Of Windows Users—Change Your Browser Now

The FBI has warned of a rise in email attacks, particularly with the holiday season approaching, highlighting increased risks from sophisticated phishing emails and malicious websites enhanced by AI tools. Microsoft is promoting its Edge browser as a safer alternative for Windows users, with plans for pop-up notifications encouraging users to set Edge as their default browser. Despite a slight increase in Edge's market share, it still significantly lags behind Google Chrome. The Department of Justice may pursue actions against Google that could impact Chrome, while Microsoft continues to use security as a key reason for promoting Edge. Users are experiencing pop-up campaigns with confusing options regarding Edge, and while Edge has security advantages, Google is improving its own features. Microsoft may find more success in promoting Edge within the enterprise sector.

Winsage

December 20, 2024

Can Microsoft convince gamers to upgrade to Windows 11?

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 before the end of support in October 2025. Key gaming features of Windows 11 include Auto HDR, DirectStorage, Game Bar Compact Mode, Dynamic Lighting, optimizations for windowed games, an HDR calibration app, advanced hybrid support, Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 support, color filters for colorblind players, automatic super resolution for Arm Copilot+ PCs, and the Xbox app on Windows PC. Windows 11 has a 52.48% market share among Steam users as of November 2024, surpassing Windows 10 in mid-2024. Currently, Windows 10 holds a 61.82% market share while Windows 11 is at 34.94%. Gamers are adopting Windows 11 faster than the general user base.

Winsage

December 17, 2024

Microsoft’s mission to improve Windows 11 actually pays off with improved webcam tools

Microsoft is refining Windows 11 with Build 26120.2702, introducing a feature that allows multiple applications to access the webcam simultaneously, responding to user feedback. This functionality is being trialed by Windows Insider program participants and enables activities like video conferencing on Google Meet while streaming on platforms like Twitch. Users previously had to choose one application for webcam access. The exact limit on the number of applications that can use the webcam concurrently is unclear, but excessive usage may affect system performance. Additionally, Microsoft is developing further webcam settings for adjusting resolution, frame rate, and media type. This update reflects a shift towards user-requested features rather than unwanted elements.

Winsage

December 16, 2024

Microsoft says it will not lower Windows 11 system requirements

Microsoft has confirmed that the system requirements for Windows 11 will not change, disappointing many Windows 10 users with older PCs lacking hardware-level security features like Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. Windows 10, launched in 2015, will end its support lifecycle next year, leaving millions of computers without security updates. Currently, 61.82% of PC users are on Windows 10, while Windows 11 has 34.94%. In the gaming community, 43.31% of players use Windows 10 compared to 52.98% on Windows 11. Popular browsers and applications are expected to continue supporting Windows 10 for the foreseeable future. Users can choose to upgrade hardware, buy new devices, switch to Linux, or use third-party applications to manage updates. Microsoft will offer Extended Support Updates for Windows 10 at a cost.

AppWizard

December 15, 2024

10 Top-Rated Health & Fitness Apps For Your Android Devices

Android fitness applications are essential for tracking progress and maintaining motivation toward health goals. Notable apps include: - Flo Period & Ovulation Tracker: Over 380 million users, tracks ovulation, fertility, water intake, physical activity, and mood, offers reminders and a content library on health topics, and includes a feature for couples to connect accounts. - JustFit - Lazy Workout: Focuses on home workouts without gym memberships, allows personalized fitness plans, and includes Pilates workouts requiring minimal equipment. - MyFitnessPal: Calorie Counter: Provides visibility into health profiles with a database of 14 million food items, features a barcode scanner, and integrates with over 50 apps and devices. - Calorie Counter - MyNetDiary: User-friendly for weight loss and nutrition management with over 1.7 million food items, an AI-powered scanner, and a community feature for motivation. - Pilates Workout at Home: Offers budget-friendly Pilates workouts with personalized plans and step-by-step video tutorials designed by certified experts. - Finch: Self-Care Pet: Introduces a virtual pet that evolves with user engagement in self-care activities, offering quizzes, motivational quotes, and journaling spaces. - Fasting - Intermittent Fasting: Simplifies intermittent fasting with customizable plans and a resource hub for tips, integrating with wearable devices. - Wysa: Anxiety, therapy chatbot: An AI-powered chatbot using CBT and DBT techniques for emotional support, includes mood tracking, mindfulness exercises, and options to connect with therapists. - TrainingPeaks: Designed for endurance coaching, offers structured training plans, real-time tracking with wearables, and advanced features for serious athletes. - Muscle Monster Workout Planner: A comprehensive workout planner with over 300 exercises, AI-driven guidance, and support for various training environments.