Category: Software

  • Linux Mint 22.1 Released: New Power Modes and APT Updates

    Linux Mint 22.1 Released: New Power Modes and APT Updates

    At the close of July, Linux Mint upgraded to version 22. This version, referred to as “Wilma,” is based on Ubuntu Linux 24.04 LTS and, similar to its follow-up, known as “Xia,” which launched yesterday, it will receive support until 2029. Users still on the 21.x versions don’t need to hurry, as they will continue to get support until April 2027, assuming everything goes according to plan. However, those on Linux Mint 20.x might want to think about updating, since support for these older versions will wrap up after April 2025.

    Focus on User Experience

    Linux Mint 22.1 “Xia” emphasizes enhancing the user experience, both in functionality and design. Here are the key features of this new release:

    The update for Linux Mint 22.1 maintains the same kernel (6.8) and Ubuntu LTS package base as the previous version, and this will apply to all upcoming versions until 2026, providing a smoother upgrade path. Starting in 2026, the Mint team will begin developing a new base. The 22.1 release comes in three flavors: Xfce, Cinnamon, and MATE, all of which are available on the official page.

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  • GamersNexus Sues PayPal and Honey Over MegaLag Claims

    GamersNexus Sues PayPal and Honey Over MegaLag Claims

    GamersNexus typically focuses on graphics cards and PC cases, but recently, they have shifted their investigative efforts towards the widely-used browser extension, Honey, which is owned by PayPal. They align with MegaLag regarding accusations of Honey’s misconduct.

    Allegations Against Honey

    The allegations involve the misuse of online referral or affiliate links, potentially leading to revenue loss for influencers who deserve credit for the sales. GamersNexus has responded by filing a class action lawsuit against PayPal in the Northern District of California.

    Legal Actions Taken

    This new lawsuit is distinct from another case brought against Honey by YouTuber LegalEagle, also known as Devin Stone, who is a lawyer. Both lawsuits share the same goal: to seek compensation for those negatively impacted by the actions of the browser extension.

    Seeking Class Members

    The class action is being pursued in collaboration with the legal group CPM, which is currently looking for potential class members. Content creators who think they have been negatively impacted by Honey’s practices, as described in the lawsuit, are encouraged to apply.

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  • Outlook Vulnerability Lets Hackers Send Malware via Email

    Outlook Vulnerability Lets Hackers Send Malware via Email

    Microsoft Windows is facing a new major security risk. Named CVE-2025-21298, this issue is found in the Windows Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) feature, which allows documents and objects to be easily incorporated into different applications. However, this feature comes with a significant threat: just a quick look at an Outlook inbox or carelessly opening an email preview can lead to an open invitation for cyber intruders.

    Exploiting the Vulnerability

    Hackers can take advantage of the “use after free” flaw to seize control of the victim’s machine by sending a specifically designed email to the target. If the victim opens this email with a vulnerable version of Microsoft Outlook or views it through a preview pane, it can lead to remote code execution on their system.

    Potential Consequences

    The impact of such an attack can be severe, including data breaches, spying, or even total system encryption by ransomware. Multiple editions of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server are affected. The vulnerability has a CVSSv3 rating of 9.8 out of 10, marking it as “critical.” Yet, Microsoft claims that there have been no recorded exploitations of this vulnerability so far.

    Recommended Actions for Users

    Microsoft is currently deploying security updates to patch this vulnerability, and users are highly urged to apply these updates without delay. In the meantime, users should set their email view to plain text and, if on large LAN networks, limit NTLM traffic or turn it off entirely. By configuring Microsoft Outlook to display emails in plain text rather than rich text, users can prevent the display of additional content like images, animations, or unique fonts, which could be used to exploit the vulnerability.

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  • TikTok Set to Shut Down in the US This Sunday

    TikTok Set to Shut Down in the US This Sunday

    Currently, TikTok US is valued between $40 billion and $50 billion, but it faces a deadline of less than a week to keep its services running. This situation would leave about 170 million users in search of alternatives like Bluesky or X. In relation to X, there are hopes in China that Elon Musk might take control of TikTok’s US division. If this happens, it’s possible that the two platforms could merge. However, any takeover would require time for regulatory approval, meaning that for now, this is just speculation.

    Plans for Shutdown

    A report from The Information, cited by Reuters, states that “TikTok plans to shut off its app for U.S. users on Sunday, when a federal ban on the social media app could come into effect, unless the Supreme Court moves to block it.” Nevertheless, the law signed by President Biden last year does not enforce this shutdown. It would prevent new downloads from Apple’s or Google’s app stores but would still permit current users to access the app. In the long run, this could lead to a gradual decline in user numbers.

    User Notification Strategy

    In the event of a ban, TikTok has plans to show an in-app notification that will guide users to a webpage with more information on the situation. Additionally, they will offer users a chance to download their account data before they lose access. This approach aims to ease the transition for users if the app is restricted.

    Potential Consequences

    Regardless of the outcome on Sunday, a possible retaliatory ban from China affecting a US company like Micron might lead to negotiations between the involved parties soon. TikTok estimates that one-third of its 170 million US users would stop using the app if the ban lasts for a month, suggesting that there could be a resolution to this matter by mid-February, one way or another.

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  • Sygnum Crypto Bank Achieves $1 Billion Valuation

    Sygnum Crypto Bank Achieves $1 Billion Valuation

    Back in September 2019, Sygnum started offering services to institutional clients. Earlier that same year, in March, this digital asset bank, which operates in both Switzerland and Singapore, partnered with Deutsche Börse AG and Swisscom to leverage distributed ledger technology (DLT) within a regulatory framework. Established in 2018, Sygnum has recently raised $58 million in a funding round led by Fulgur Ventures, a venture capital firm supportive of cryptocurrency, with participation from some employees. This funding has pushed the company’s valuation to $1 billion.

    Expanding Reach in Europe

    Sygnum, founded in 2018, received registration to operate in Liechtenstein last September. This year, the firm aims to access markets across the European Union and the European Economic Area while also planning a launch in Hong Kong. Unfortunately, retail customers are not the focus for now; Sygnum intends to concentrate on institutional clients who engage in crypto trading and utilize their digital assets as collateral for loans.

    Future Plans and Market Strategies

    Mathias Imbach, the co-founder and group CEO, mentioned that Sygnum is not looking to enter the U.S. market at this time, at least not with its own entities. However, he expressed optimism about developments in the U.S. that suggest positive reforms in the crypto market. He stated, “The U.S. developments for positive crypto market reform are, however, highly encouraging… Sygnum is exploring other options to benefit from this trend and will update the market once these are sufficiently developed, for example, partnerships and M&A.”

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  • Philips Hue App Update: New Feature Discovered in Latest Version

    Philips Hue App Update: New Feature Discovered in Latest Version

    Another interesting addition has been noticed in the recent update of the Philips Hue app. The 5.33 version was introduced for both iOS and Android users earlier this month, and the change log highlights a fresh customization feature for the Scattered gradient lighting mode across multiple smart lighting devices.

    New Automation Feature

    Recently, users have discovered a forthcoming feature that Philips Hue hasn’t officially announced yet. According to Hueblog, a new automation for Hue Secure products, including the Secure Wired camera (priced at $149.99 on Amazon), has been found. At the end of the Automations list, there is now an option called “Arming schedule – Automate your Secure system to arm and disarm at specific times.” This can be accessed by tapping the ‘+’ icon on the Automations page within the app.

    Current Status of the Feature

    Although this new option is visible, it seems that the functionality is still turned off. Once it goes live, the feature is anticipated to align with the chosen time zone of the connected Hue Bridge. It’s believed that this innovative automation for Philips Hue Secure products will be launched with the next app version, which is 5.34. However, the exact release date for this update remains uncertain.

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  • Polar Update: New Features for Smartwatches and Enhanced Navigation

    Polar Update: New Features for Smartwatches and Enhanced Navigation

    Polar has recently revealed an exciting update named “Software Release 3.0.” This update will first be available for the Polar Grit X2 Pro and Polar Vantage V3. The Polar Vantage M3 and Polar Ignite 3 will receive the same update, although that won’t happen until the second quarter of this year.

    New Features in the Update

    Software Release 3.0 comes with a mix of small improvements and some brand new features. One notable addition is “Points-of-Interest,” which makes navigation easier by helping users find important spots like supermarkets and cafés. It’s important to note, however, that this feature won’t be available on the Polar Ignite 3. Another handy feature, called “Find My Phone,” aims to help users keep track of their smartphones. This feature shows the last synced location of the phone on the watch map and can also make the phone emit a sound when it’s within Bluetooth range.

    Enhancements for Athletes

    The update also includes details on swimming styles and allows for charging during workout sessions. Though, this charging feature might not be very helpful during all types of exercises. Users can now view the route they took after finishing an outdoor workout, which can aid in analyzing their navigation. Additionally, Polar has introduced two new analog designs and three new digital layouts for customization. These options feature unique “capsule” or “pill-shaped” widgets, making it easier to access important functions quickly.

    Minor Fixes and Improvements

    To top it all off, this update rolls out an extensive range of minor tweaks and bug corrections. For instance, heart rate monitoring during exercises is now claimed to be more precise. The “route guidance start logic” has also been improved; if a user begins a route in the middle, the device will recalibrate from that current spot instead of going back to the starting point. Other minor adjustments were made to display brightness, 3D speed calculations, compass calibration, and several other elements, enhancing the overall user experience.

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  • Samsung One UI 8 Leak Suggests Return of Decal Shader Feature

    Samsung One UI 8 Leak Suggests Return of Decal Shader Feature

    Samsung has not yet launched One UI 7, which is built on Android 15, while Google has already put out the Android 16 Developer Preview and is expected to release Android 16 sooner than anticipated.

    Development of One UI 8

    It appears that Samsung is catching up in the software area for One UI, which will be based on Android 16. SmartPrix has discovered hints of One UI 8 (One_UI_8_0) related to Android 16 throughout Samsung’s software framework. It’s common for smartphone makers to begin testing upcoming updates ahead of time, and these signs of One UI 8 indicate that the software is progressing well in line with Android 16’s development.

    New Features on the Horizon

    A notable detail from the report is the possibility that Samsung might reintroduce a feature called “Decal Shader,” which would bring back some elements from the TouchWiz days. This feature, which has been mostly missing since One UI’s debut, is thought to enhance visual transitions on the home screen when compared to One UI 7.

    However, the precise way this feature will be implemented is still somewhat uncertain. The reputable leaker Ice Universe has hinted that it could serve as a new lock screen animation featuring a ripple effect, providing a contemporary take on past design styles.

    > I THINK IT IS PREPARED FOR THIS EFFECT. HTTPS://T.CO/BIYJTWDZYO PIC.TWITTER.COM/KE1YUIDAOG
    > — ICE UNIVERSE (@UniverseIce) January 9, 2025

    Release Timeline for One UI 8

    If this is indeed accurate, the feature could usher in smoother and more visually captivating animations to Samsung’s user interface, enhancing its current emphasis on customization and fluidity.

    Even with these early hints, One UI 8 is still a while away from launch. Samsung plans to reveal the Galaxy S25 series equipped with One UI 7 on January 22, and it is likely that the One UI 8 update will be saved for a software rollout mid-cycle, allowing plenty of time for the company to fine-tune the new features.

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  • Samsung One UI 8.0 on Android 16 to Bring Back TouchWiz Features

    Samsung One UI 8.0 on Android 16 to Bring Back TouchWiz Features

    Android 16 is set to arrive much sooner than expected, breaking from Google’s usual release schedule of recent years. Additionally, Samsung seems to be ignoring earlier predictions about its software and is taking steps to customize the next significant software update for its devices.

    New Developments in One UI

    SmartPrix has discovered hints about the next version of the user interface that will be featured on high-end devices like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which is currently for sale on Amazon. The new skin, dubbed “One UI 8,” is rumored to bring back some nostalgic elements.

    The latest code analysis reveals new references linked to a feature named Decal Shader. This element harks back to the days when TouchWiz was still in use, making it a throwback that hasn’t been seen in a long time.

    Exciting Features Ahead

    This “feature” is believed to improve the transitions on the home screen compared to One UI 7. However, the well-known leaker Ice Universe suggests that it might also introduce a new kind of lockscreen animation that features a ripple effect. If this leak holds true, it’s unlikely that it will be ready by the time the Galaxy S25 series launches in early 2025.

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  • Free Software Dominates Steam Charts, Not a Game

    Free Software Dominates Steam Charts, Not a Game

    Desktop Mate is not a game; it’s a platform that allows users to have desktop mascots. This software brings anime characters to life, making them dynamic companions that can move around, sit on windows, jump between them, or even interact with the mouse. It creates a fun and engaging background for users.

    Pricing and Features

    The free version of Desktop Mate is available in both English and Japanese, but it only includes the official character Aiel-tan, an anime girl designed by developer Infinite Loop. For about $20, users can buy a paid DLC that adds Hatsune Miku, the famous virtual singer from the Vocaloid software, which is used for generating synthetic voices, to their desktop.

    User Experience

    Even though Desktop Mate doesn’t provide any useful functions, it offers a way for PC users to add some fun to their workspace. This has been well received on Steam. Since its launch on January 8, the software has gathered over 800 reviews, with 89% being positive. It is currently ranked first in Steam’s “Trending Free” category and leads in the “Trending Games” list on SteamDB.

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