Category: Software

  • Vivaldi 7.3 Desktop Now Includes Proton VPN Integration

    Vivaldi 7.3 Desktop Now Includes Proton VPN Integration

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivaldi 7.3 integrates Proton VPN, enhancing user privacy and online experience.
    2. Users must create a Vivaldi account to access Proton VPN features without additional downloads or payments.
    3. The VPN offers basic features like auto connect and WebRTC leak protection but lacks Secure Core and Split tunneling.
    4. Vivaldi and Proton VPN emphasize user privacy and do not share personal data, only anonymous crash reports.
    5. Vivaldi 7.3 is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and includes fixes for issues identified in the previous version.

    Earlier this month, Vivaldi 7.2 for desktop was launched, featuring quicker page loading, a refined address bar, the ability to override keyboard shortcuts, account rearrangement in Vivaldi Mail, and a variety of other enhancements. Now, Vivaldi 7.3 has arrived, bringing with it a singular but significant change: integration with Proton VPN. To use this fantastic Swiss software, users must log into their accounts, so anyone who hasn’t created a Vivaldi account yet should do so. Besides entering the Vivaldi account details, there’s no need for downloads or payments.

    Exciting New Features

    Jon von Tetzchner expressed,

    “Combining Proton VPN and Vivaldi offers a superior online experience, merging Proton’s top-rated VPN with Vivaldi’s strength, extensive customization, and uncompromising commitment to user privacy.”

    He also pointed out that both Vivaldi and Proton VPN originate from Europe and do not share the same data handling practices as software from Silicon Valley and China. This update to Vivaldi is promoted as a step forward in the mission to make the web “open, secure, and democratic” without any upfront or hidden fees.

    Limitations of the VPN

    Unfortunately, the VPN does come with certain limitations, which can be unlocked by selecting one of the subscription options offered by Proton. While it includes auto connect and WebRTC leak protection, along with notification features, Vivaldi’s Proton VPN lacks two valuable functionalities: Secure Core, which offers extra protection, and Split tunneling, which allows users to disable VPN for specific websites. On a positive note, it’s important to mention that anonymous usage statistics, which do not include the IP address, are not shared by default. The only data shared by Vivaldi’s VPN is anonymous crash reports; however, those who are concerned about their privacy can easily disable this feature.

    Availability Across Platforms

    As with previous versions, Vivaldi 7.3.3635.4 is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. This minor update was released to fix three issues that were identified since the launch of the desktop version (marked as 7.3.3635.2) with Proton VPN included.

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  • Garmin Launches Major Update for Older Flagship Smartwatches

    Garmin Launches Major Update for Older Flagship Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched version 21 software for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and similar smartwatches.
    2. Users must manually download the update through the smartwatch’s menu; it does not auto-download.
    3. Beta Version 21.04 includes five modifications from System Software 20.22.
    4. The update features various bug fixes and enhancements, though specific details are not provided.
    5. Beta Version 21.04 fixes two additional bugs, including one that could cause a crash in the Garmin Coach widget.

    Garmin has just launched the latest major software version for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and other similar smartwatches like the Enduro 2 (currently priced at $671 on Amazon). Earlier this month, the company rolled out System Software 20.22 for these devices, shortly before revealing its larger Q1 2025 update.

    New Version Available

    Now, Garmin is offering version 21 software, which users can access through its Beta Program. It’s important to note that this new update won’t automatically download to a Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, or Marq 2, even if they are part of the Beta Program. Users need to manually start the download by navigating to Menu, System, and then Software Update on their smartwatch, followed by selecting ‘Check for Updates’.

    Changes in Beta Version 21.04

    Garmin states that Beta Version 21.04 introduces five modifications compared to System Software 20.22. Among these is a bundle of ‘various’ bug fixes and enhancements, but Garmin has not shared any specific details. Furthermore, Beta Version 21.04 addresses two additional bugs, one of which could lead to a crash in the Garmin Coach widget. The complete list of changes related to Beta Version 21.04 is outlined below:

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  • More Americans Support TikTok as Sale Deadline Nears

    More Americans Support TikTok as Sale Deadline Nears

    Key Takeaways

    1. Public sentiment towards a potential TikTok ban in the US has shifted, with only 34% supporting the ban, down from 50% in 2023.
    2. Opposition to the ban has risen to 32%, compared to 22% two years ago.
    3. Support for the ban among Republican and Republican-leaning individuals has dropped from 60% to 30%.
    4. Only 12% of TikTok users support the ban, while 45% of non-users do.
    5. The perception of TikTok as a national security threat has decreased from 59% to 49%.

    The future of TikTok in the United States has been unclear for some time, with a deadline for a potential sale looming in the coming weeks. Despite the ongoing uncertainty, public sentiment appears to have shifted regarding the app’s potential ban, according to a new study. As of March 2025, more Americans are now against the ban compared to two years prior. The research also indicated that a larger number of Republican and Republican-leaning individuals now support dropping the TikTok ban.

    Study Insights

    This study, carried out by Pew Research Center, surveyed over 5,000 adults in the US from February 24 to March 5. It revealed that only 34% of those surveyed backed the TikTok ban, a significant drop from 50% in 2023, when a similar survey was held. The findings also highlighted that opposition to the ban has risen, with 32% now against it, up from 22% two years ago. In 2023, 60% of Republican and Republican-leaning respondents were in favor of the ban, but that figure has now fallen to 30%. Nevertheless, Republicans still exhibit a higher tendency to support the ban compared to Democrats, the research indicated.

    User Perspectives

    Among TikTok users, only 12% supported the ban, whereas 45% of non-users were in favor of it. Additionally, the percentage of Americans considering TikTok a national security threat has declined from 59% to 49%.

    As the deadline for TikTok’s sale approaches in less than two weeks, ByteDance has been requested to divest the app to an American firm by April 5 to keep operating in the US. However, the Chinese company appears uninterested in pursuing that sale. Historically, companies like Microsoft, Perplexity AI, and Oracle have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok.

    In conclusion, the findings from Pew Research Center highlight a significant shift in public opinion regarding TikTok’s future in the US, as well as the ongoing uncertainty surrounding its ownership.

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  • Windows 11 25H2 Update: Key Details Revealed

    Windows 11 25H2 Update: Key Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is working on a Windows 11 update (likely called 25H2) to fix issues like USB printer glitches and a bug in factory resetting.
    2. The update will improve the “About” section in settings to show hardware details like CPU type and memory size.
    3. A new virtual keyboard mode will mimic a gamepad layout, aiding touchscreen users, especially on Surface tablets.
    4. New features will be rolled out gradually, unlike immediate bug fixes.
    5. The anticipated launch for the update is between September and October 2025.

    The software company from Redmond is hard at work on a fresh update for Windows 11, with some information already shared. One of the key fixes includes addressing a frustrating problem where USB printers using the IP printing feature would randomly print a page with text. Currently, the update hasn’t been given an official code name, but following the usual naming pattern, it’s probable that it will be referred to as 25H2.

    Fixes and Improvements

    As per the official statement, Microsoft plans to tackle multiple issues. Besides fixing the printer glitch, they will also resolve a bug that arises when resetting Windows 11 to factory settings. This bug is found in build version 26200, but it mistakenly shows as 26100.

    New Features on the Horizon

    Alongside these fixes, Microsoft is introducing new features as well. In the updated “About” section of the settings, users will be able to see crucial hardware details such as the CPU type and memory size. Microsoft mentions that this feature aims to give new users a quick snapshot of their hardware capabilities.

    Another highlight is the introduction of a new mode for the virtual keyboard, which can now mimic a gamepad layout. This could especially help users with Surface tablets, which are frequently utilized through their touchscreen.

    Rollout Timeline

    However, unlike the bug fixes, these new features are not likely to be available right away. They will be rolled out gradually over time. Windows Latest is also pondering whether this update will be a completely new platform (codenamed Selenium) or an enhanced version of 24H2 (codenamed Germanium).

    Given previous update schedules, it’s anticipated that Windows 11 25H2 might launch between September and October 2025.

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  • Apple WWDC 2025 Dates Announced: Major iPhone and Mac Updates

    Apple WWDC 2025 Dates Announced: Major iPhone and Mac Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. WWDC 2025 is scheduled for June 9 to 13, featuring major announcements on operating systems and apps.
    2. Significant updates are expected for iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16, including a complete design overhaul.
    3. New design elements will include updated icons, apps, menus, and buttons, inspired by visionOS.
    4. Updates for watchOS 12 and visionOS 3 will also be showcased, focusing on the Apple Watch and Vision Pro.
    5. The event will offer online sessions for developers, requiring prior registration on Apple’s official website.

    Apple’s World Wide Developers Conference is known for unveiling new versions of operating systems and Apple apps, along with the occasional hardware announcement. Recently, Apple confirmed through a press release that WWDC 2025 is set to happen from June 9 to 13. The press conference at the beginning of the event is usually the highlight for consumers, with this year’s gathering anticipated to be especially thrilling.

    Major Updates Ahead

    As per recent details from Bloomberg, iOS 19, iPadOS 19, and macOS 16 are expected to be the most significant updates in years. Apple is likely to provide a thorough design overhaul for the interfaces of iPhone, iPad, and Mac, marking the most extensive redesign since iOS 7 debuted in September 2013. New icons, apps, menus, window designs, and buttons will be introduced. Reports suggest that Apple is drawing inspiration from visionOS, the operating system for the Apple Vision Pro. After these changes, the operating systems of Apple’s devices could look more alike than ever, although the company has no plans to unify the user interfaces of the iPad and Mac.

    Exciting Announcements for Other Devices

    WWDC 2025 is also set to showcase updates for watchOS 12 and visionOS 3, which are the most significant enhancements for the Apple Watch and Vision Pro this year. Besides the initial press conference, the event will feature numerous online sessions aimed at developers, where Apple engineers will discuss the new software features and tools available to developers. Those interested in attending these sessions will need to register ahead of time on Apple’s official website.

    Apple’s announcements at WWDC are always highly anticipated, and this year looks to be no different as users and developers alike gear up for what could be groundbreaking advancements in Apple technology.

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    Apple WWDC 2025 Dates Announced: Major iPhone and Mac Updates

     

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  • Galaxy S24 Series Last One UI 7 Beta Before Stable Release

    Galaxy S24 Series Last One UI 7 Beta Before Stable Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is receiving its sixth One UI 7 beta update, likely the last before the stable version launches next month.
    2. The update includes the new Audio Eraser feature, which allows users to adjust the volume of specific sounds in videos for better audio quality.
    3. Enhancements include an upgraded Sketch to Image tool, the ability to convert call recordings into text summaries, and improved integration with Google Gemini for easy access to creative tools.
    4. The Settings app has been updated with natural language search, making it easier to find options using simple phrases.
    5. The beta update addresses various issues, including battery animations and widget overlap, and is being rolled out in countries like India, Korea, and Germany.

    So, the whispers were right. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is getting its sixth One UI 7 beta update, which might be the last one before the stable version arrives next month.

    Update Details

    The One UI 7 beta 6 is being released for the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra (the S24 FE is excluded from the beta program). This update, with the firmware version ZYCE, offers multiple new features and bug fixes aimed at improving the overall software experience. Since most changes have already been made, the update size is not very large — it is only about 1.25GB.

    New Features

    According to SamMobile, the changelog mirrors that of the third One UI 7 beta update for the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6, which was launched yesterday. This means the much-awaited Audio Eraser feature is finally here. This tool can recognize up to six different sound types, allowing you to adjust the volume of specific sounds in videos to improve audio quality. For instance, you can decrease or eliminate background chatter while enhancing your voice for clearer communication.

    Enhancements and Integrations

    The sixth One UI 7 beta for the Galaxy S24 series also features an upgraded version of Sketch to Image, which lets users provide specific instructions to Galaxy AI during image creation. Additionally, this update brings the ability to turn call recordings into text summaries.

    Moreover, the update enhances integration with Google Gemini, allowing quick access by holding the side button. It enables users to create stickers, images, and summarize web pages. The Settings app has also been improved with natural language search, making it easier for users to find settings using simple phrases. For example, typing “my eyes are feeling tired” in Settings may suggest options like adjusting brightness or activating the Eye Comfort Shield.

    Other Improvements

    The beta update also enhances battery animations at the top and addresses issues related to widget overlap, media controller UI elements, and routines.

    Samsung is distributing the One UI 7 beta 6 update for the Galaxy S24 series across several countries, including India, Korea, and Germany. If you own a Galaxy S24 running One UI 7 beta, you can obtain the latest update by navigating to Settings > Software update and tapping on Download and install.

    This update may be the last beta version for the Galaxy S24 series, as the stable release is expected in just two weeks. Earlier reports indicated that the Galaxy S24 series would receive a total of six beta updates, suggesting that the next update could very well be the stable version.

    Galaxy S24 Series Last One UI 7 Beta Before Stable ReleaseGalaxy S24 Series Last One UI 7 Beta Before Stable Release
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  • European Union Lacks iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay in iOS 18.4

    European Union Lacks iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay in iOS 18.4

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 18.4 introduces new features like priority notifications and support for non-English languages for beta testers.
    2. iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing are not available for users in the EU due to regulatory uncertainties.
    3. Apple cites concerns over the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regarding user privacy and data security as reasons for the feature limitations.
    4. The DMA has previously impacted Apple, forcing changes like the switch from Lightning to USB-C for the iPhone 15.
    5. It is uncertain if iPhone Mirroring will be available in iOS 19, leaving EU users without this feature for now.

    With the upcoming launch of iOS 18.4, iPhone users, especially those in the European Union (EU), are eagerly anticipating some long-awaited additions. Sadly, EU users must wait a bit longer for one of these features.

    New Release Candidate Details

    The latest Release Candidate for iOS 18.4 was made available on Monday for beta testers. This update brought enhancements to Apple Intelligence, adding features like priority notifications and support for non-English languages. However, EU users observed that iPhone Mirroring is still not accessible. Additionally, SharePlay Screen Sharing, which permits FaceTime users to share their screens, is also absent.

    Apple’s Explanation

    Apple has explained that the lack of iPhone Mirroring in the EU is due to “regulatory uncertainties,” a rather vague justification. Last June, the company pointed to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), expressing concerns:

    We worry that the interoperability requirements of the DMA might force us to compromise the integrity of our products in ways that could endanger user privacy and data security.

    It seems Apple is sticking to its stance on this matter. Given that Apple’s practices have been a key focus of the DMA, the company is probably being cautious about certain features. The DMA is the law that famously compelled Apple to replace its Lightning connector with USB-C in the iPhone 15 (which can be found renewed on Amazon for $487.34).

    Future Outlook

    It is unclear whether iPhone Mirroring will eventually be available with iOS 19, which is anticipated to bring significant changes to Apple’s mobile operating system. For the time being, iPhone users in the EU will have to make do without this particular feature.

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  • 23andMe Files for Bankruptcy and Appoints Interim CEO

    23andMe Files for Bankruptcy and Appoints Interim CEO

    Key Takeaways

    1. 23andMe has filed for voluntary chapter 11 bankruptcy due to ongoing operational and financial struggles, worsened by a security breach in 2023 affecting 7 million customers.
    2. The company plans to pursue a court-supervised sale process for nearly all its assets, with an auction planned if multiple bids are received.
    3. CEO Anne Wojcicki is stepping down immediately but will remain on the board; Joe Selsavage is appointed as the interim CEO.
    4. Wojcicki intends to bid for the company, despite her initial acquisition offer being rejected by the special committee.
    5. 23andMe’s valuation dropped significantly from $6 billion in 2021 to just 2% of that value by 2024, reflecting a severe decline in the company’s market position.

    23andMe, a company focused on biotechnology and genetics, is well known for its DNA testing services that helped customers uncover their ancestry. Recently, it has decided to file for voluntary chapter 11 bankruptcy. This move came after the organization struggled to deal with ongoing operational and financial issues for several years, especially following a security breach in 2023 that impacted around 7 million customers.

    Strategic Decision Made

    In an official statement shared with GlobeNewswire, Mark Jensen, the chairman and a member of the special committee on the board, was quoted saying, “After carefully reviewing our strategic options, we have concluded that pursuing a court-supervised sale process is the most effective way to optimize the value of our business.”

    The announcement also disclosed that the company is looking to sell nearly all of its assets. Once the court gives its approval, they will entertain qualified bids over a period of 45 days. If several qualifying bids come in, they plan to hold an auction to achieve the best value for their assets. Notably, the special committee turned down an acquisition offer made by Anne Wojcicki, who has been the CEO since the company’s inception in 2006.

    Changes in Leadership

    Additionally, it has been confirmed that Ms. Wojcicki will step down from her CEO position but will continue to serve on the board. This resignation is effective immediately, and Joe Selsavage, the Chief Financial and Accounting Officer, will take over as interim CEO. In a post shared on X regarding her resignation, Ms. Wojcicki expressed her intention to bid for the company despite the initial rejection of her acquisition offer, which aimed to take the company private again.

    In 2021, 23andMe was valued at $6 billion after becoming publicly traded through a merger with VG Acquisition Corp, a special-purpose acquisition company led by Richard Branson. However, by 2024, that valuation plummeted to a mere 2% of its original worth. The company provided customers not only with insights into their ancestry but also with crucial information about their health.

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  • Samsung One UI 7 Now Available for More Devices

    Samsung One UI 7 Now Available for More Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung will start rolling out One UI 7 based on Android 15 on April 7 for 19 devices.
    2. Initially, only a few devices were listed, but the update now includes older models like the Galaxy S21 and S22 series.
    3. All Galaxy Z foldables from Galaxy Z Flip3 and Z Fold3 will receive the One UI 7 update.
    4. The Galaxy Tab S8 series and Galaxy Tab S6 Lite are also included in the update eligibility.
    5. There is skepticism about the 2020 version of the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite receiving the update, as it still lacks One UI 6.

    Hardly any time has gone by since Samsung made it known which devices will start getting One UI 7 next month. In brief, the company stated that 19 devices will be able to get the update based on Android 15 starting on April 7.

    Expanded Device List

    For some unknown reason, the company only listed the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S24, Galaxy Tab S9, and Galaxy Tab S10 series, along with its fifth and sixth-generation foldable phones. As we mentioned earlier, it did imply that this was merely the start of the One UI 7 rollout, a point backed up by a fresh press release from Samsung Singapore.

    Now, Samsung has broadened the list to include older flagship models such as the Galaxy S21 and Galaxy S22 series, plus all Galaxy Z foldables back to the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Galaxy Z Fold3 (currently $429 – renewed on Amazon). The latest press release from Samsung also verifies that One UI 7 will be available for the Galaxy Tab S8 series and the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite.

    Update Speculation

    However, it seems improbable that the 2020 version of the latter will get the update, especially since it still lacks One UI 6. Below is the list for the newly expanded eligibility for One UI 7. We’ve indicated which devices will get Audio Eraser, Drawing Assist, and Writing Assist when applicable.

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  • Roche and Oxford BioTherapeutics Collaborate on Antibody Cancer Treatments

    Roche and Oxford BioTherapeutics Collaborate on Antibody Cancer Treatments

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oxford BioTherapeutics (OBT) has partnered with Roche to develop new cancer antibody treatments using the OGAP-Verify discovery platform.
    2. OBT will receive an initial payment of up to $36 million and potential milestone payments exceeding $1 billion, along with royalties on successful product launches.
    3. Roche will lead the validation, research, and development of drug targets identified by OBT’s platform.
    4. OBT’s CEO highlighted Roche’s expertise in oncology and its role in enhancing cancer target discovery.
    5. OBT is focused on advanced treatments for patients with hard-to-treat cancers and has existing clinical programs in the U.S. and Europe.

    Oxford BioTherapeutics (OBT) has recently begun a long-term collaboration with Roche aimed at discovering and developing new antibody treatments to combat cancer. The oncology-focused company will utilize its OGAP-Verify discovery platform to identify promising drug targets with enhanced precision and accuracy.

    Financial Aspects of the Deal

    As part of this agreement, OBT is set to receive an initial payment of up to $36 million, along with potential milestone payments that could exceed $1 billion. Additionally, they will earn royalties on any successful products that are launched. Once OBT identifies targets using the OGAP-Verify platform, Roche will take the lead in validating, researching, and developing those targets further.

    Statements from Leadership

    OBT’s CEO, Christian Rohlff, emphasized the significance of this partnership, referring to Roche as “a global leader in oncology”. He expressed that this alliance bolsters OBT’s efforts in discovering better cancer targets and highlighted Roche’s special ability to combine pharmaceutical and diagnostic knowledge.

    Excitement at Roche

    Boris L. Zaïtra, who leads Corporate Business Development at Roche, also expressed enthusiasm regarding this strategic collaboration. He pointed out that merging Roche’s proficiency in introducing innovative treatments with OBT’s state-of-the-art target discovery platform could “open new doors in cancer care.” Zaïtra reiterated Roche’s dedication to accelerating the development of transformative therapies for patients with challenging diagnoses.

    OBT specializes in creating advanced treatments like Bispecific Antibodies and Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs), and they currently have three clinical programs underway in the U.S. and Europe. Their immuno-oncology discovery method has led to several new monoclonal and bispecific antibody candidates targeting various types of cancer.

    OBT’s Clinical Focus

    One of OBT’s primary clinical programs, which expanded in the U.S. in 2021, is aimed at patients suffering from advanced or treatment-resistant solid tumors, including gastric, bladder, ovarian, and lung cancers, particularly when specific biomarkers are highly expressed.

    OBT’s development capabilities have been confirmed through partnerships with significant industry players like Boehringer Ingelheim, ImmunoGen, and Zymeworks.

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