video calls Archives

Winsage

December 28, 2024

Windows 11’s Camera Just Got Smarter: Check Out the Latest Additions

Microsoft has introduced new camera features for Windows 11 that enhance video quality and user experience. Users can now adjust camera brightness, contrast, resolution, and frame rate, allowing for better visibility in various lighting conditions and catering to different bandwidth needs. Additionally, users can utilize their camera in multiple applications simultaneously, enabling multitasking during video calls. However, these features may not be available on all devices immediately, as some older camera models may not support them, and the rollout will occur gradually. Users interested in trying these features early can join the Windows Insider Program and download version 26120.2702.

Winsage

December 22, 2024

Windows 11 Pro: The PC upgrade that’ll make them think twice about getting a new device

Microsoft's Windows 11 Pro is available for a limited time at a discounted price of .97, down from its regular price of 9. It includes advanced security features, a user-friendly interface, and productivity tools such as AI assistant Copilot, upgraded Paint application, Live Captions, Snap layouts, virtual desktops, seamless redocking, enhanced voice typing, and an intuitive search function. The offer is valid until today at 11:59 p.m. PT, with limited supplies available.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

5 Secure Messaging Apps For 2025

In 2025, five noteworthy secure messaging applications include: 1. Signal: Offers default end-to-end encryption, collects minimal user data, has an open-source codebase, and recently introduced usernames for enhanced anonymity. 2. Session: Operates on a decentralized network with end-to-end encryption, does not require a phone number or email for registration, and uses onion routing for metadata protection. 3. WhatsApp: Utilizes end-to-end encryption, offers features like disappearing messages and encrypted backups, but has concerns regarding metadata collection. 4. Wickr: Features military-grade encryption, a zero-knowledge architecture, self-destructing messages, and enterprise-level functionality. 5. Viber: Provides end-to-end encryption, hidden chats secured by PINs, and secure group video calls, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Steps To Unrestrict Someone on Messenger

To unrestrict a contact on Facebook Messenger, users can follow these steps: 1. Open the Messenger app. 2. Tap your profile picture in the top left corner. 3. Select “Privacy & Safety.” 4. Tap “Restricted Accounts” to view the list of restricted users. 5. Choose the individual you wish to unrestrict. 6. Tap “Unrestrict” on their profile page. For Messenger.com on a desktop: 1. Go to Messenger.com. 2. Click your profile picture in the top left corner. 3. Select “Settings & Privacy.” 4. Click “Privacy” and then “Restricted Accounts.” 5. Click the three dots next to the person's name and select “Unrestrict.” After unrestricting, their messages will appear in the main inbox, notifications for new messages will be received, and they will be able to see the user's online status. If a user cannot find the person they wish to unrestrict, they may have blocked them instead and need to check the blocked list. Additionally, unrestricting does not notify the other person, and they will only be aware of the change if they attempt to message again.

Winsage

December 19, 2024

Final Windows 11 Dev Channel build of 2024 adds support for live captions and real-time translation to Intel and AMD Copilot+ PCs

Windows 11 Build 26120.2705 introduces real-time translation and live captions for Copilot+ PCs powered by AMD and Intel processors, expanding features previously exclusive to Qualcomm Snapdragon devices. Users can access these functionalities by installing the latest build and ensuring their drivers are updated through Windows Update. The live captions feature translates over 44 languages into English, enhancing communication during video calls and streamed content. Additionally, real-time translation support for Snapdragon-powered PCs now includes Chinese (Simplified), with an expanded range of supported languages.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Google Contacts could streamline connected app video calls (APK teardown)

Google Contacts is set to enhance its video call functionality in version 4.46.53.705303683. Users will be able to set a default app for video calls by long-pressing the video call button, allowing for direct connections through their preferred application. Additionally, users can view all available calling options for a contact with multiple numbers by long-pressing the video call button. If a contact is unavailable on the selected app, a network bar icon will indicate that the call will be routed through the carrier.

Winsage

December 19, 2024

The objectively best AI tool on Copilot+ PCs is arriving on AMD and Intel chips

Microsoft is enhancing its Copilot+ PCs with upgraded live captions and translation features, allowing real-time translation for over 44 languages. This capability is designed to improve communication during video calls, recordings, and streamed content. The feature is available on AMD and Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs and requires enrollment in the Windows 11 Dev channel for access.

Winsage

December 9, 2024

Microsoft keeps improving its app store, and no one really cares

Microsoft has announced significant improvements to the Microsoft Store, including a 25% reduction in launch times and a 50% decrease in download hang-ups. Enhancements have been made in discoverability, navigation, update management, and installation methods for Win32 apps. Users can now update externally hosted apps directly through the Microsoft Store, streamlining the update process. However, the Store still lacks popular applications like Steam and Google Chrome, which raises questions about its viability. Additionally, Microsoft has introduced a Multi-app camera feature in the Canary builds of Windows 11, allowing users to stream from a single camera to multiple applications simultaneously. This aims to simplify the user experience for video calls across different platforms. The feature is also positioned as a tool for users who are hard of hearing, although its connection to accessibility is unclear. Lastly, Microsoft has rolled out Copilot+ for Intel and AMD PCs.

Winsage

December 3, 2024

Microsoft’s claim that Arm-based Copilot+ PCs are “fastest, most intelligent Windows PCs” is debunked on X – and the community’s verdict isn’t wrong

Microsoft claimed its Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs are the “fastest, most intelligent Windows PCs.” However, fact-checkers disputed the speed claim, noting that these devices are outperformed by high-performance desktop PCs and even laptops with Intel or AMD chipsets. Additionally, Arm-based CPUs, like the Snapdragon X Elite, face compatibility issues with gaming. The intelligence claim refers to AI features like improved video calls and live captions, which are not exclusive to Arm-based devices, as x86-powered Copilot+ laptops also benefit from these advancements.

Winsage

November 27, 2024

Windows 11 remains the driver of growth in PCs, not AI

A recent analysis from TrendForce indicates that the anticipated surge in laptop sales for 2024 is primarily driven by updates in Windows 11 rather than AI features. The report states that the influence of AI-integrated notebooks on the market is minimal, with low current penetration rates. The North American consumer market is shaped by aggressive promotions and a focus on entry-level models, while premium AI PCs like Copilot+ are not aligning with current consumer demand. Many users prefer existing cloud-based AI tools and see limited benefits from upgrading to AI PCs. Privacy concerns and delays in key AI features have further complicated the situation. Global notebook shipments are projected to rise by 4.9%, reaching 183 million units by 2025, largely due to the discontinuation of Windows 10, which necessitates replacements for older devices that do not meet Windows 11 hardware requirements. Users are prioritizing cost-effective non-AI laptops over experimental AI PCs, reflecting a disconnect between industry innovation and consumer priorities focused on affordability and essential functionality.