Category: Software

  • Apple Launches macOS 15.4: Redesigned Mail, AI Features, Improved Photos

    Apple Launches macOS 15.4: Redesigned Mail, AI Features, Improved Photos

    Key Takeaways

    1. macOS 15.4 launched with iOS 18.4, allowing Apple Intelligence use in select languages without changing system language.
    2. New AI features include creating reminder videos in Photos and improved email identification in the Mail app.
    3. Photos app enhancements include better organization, hiding options, and a more accurate retouching brush.
    4. Users can control Matter-compatible devices through the Home app, and a new Podcasts widget has been added.
    5. The update includes various bug fixes and security updates, with some features not available in all regions or on all devices.

    Coinciding with the launch of iOS 18.4, Apple has simultaneously rolled out macOS 15.4. This operating system update, which is around 6.2 GB in size, now permits Mac users in select languages, including German, to utilize Apple Intelligence without needing to change their system language to English. The AI capabilities from Apple are now capable of creating emojis and images, as well as summarizing and rephrasing text, among other features.

    New Features and Improvements

    Apple Intelligence is now accessible on all Macs equipped with an Apple M1 chip or newer, right up to the latest MacBook Air featuring Apple M4. The update brings forth several new AI functionalities, such as the ability to produce reminder videos in the Photos application based on user descriptions. Furthermore, the Mail app has received a revamped design that mirrors the Mail app on iPhones. AI can now help identify and highlight important emails.

    Enhancements in Photos and Home App

    Additionally, the update introduces fresh options for organizing and hiding photos in the Photos app, along with a retouching brush that provides more accuracy when using Apple’s AI eraser. Users can now control Matter-compatible robot vacuums directly through the Home app. A new Podcasts widget has also been added, and the performance of Final Cut Pro has been enhanced on the new Mac Studio featuring Apple M3 Ultra.

    This update allows users to create Memory movies in the Photos app utilizing Apple Intelligence, introduces a new Sketch Style feature in Image Playground, and brings Mail Categorization. It also enhances the organization and filtering capabilities within the Photos library. Alongside these additions, the release contains various other features, bug fixes, and security updates for your Mac.

    Important Notes and Security Information

    Apple Intelligence is available for Macs with M1 and later versions, while the Mail and Photos features have been improved significantly.

    This update also includes several enhancements and repairs:

    Some features might not be accessible in all regions or on every Apple device.

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    Apple Launches macOS 15.4: Redesigned Mail, AI Features, Improved PhotosApple Launches macOS 15.4: Redesigned Mail, AI Features, Improved Photos
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  • Keychron Launcher Update: SOCD & Per-Key RGB for Keyboards

    Keychron Launcher Update: SOCD & Per-Key RGB for Keyboards

    Key Takeaways

    1. Keychron Launcher now offers extensive RGB customization, allowing individual key color and effect modifications, along with SOCD support for enhanced gaming performance.

    2. Users can assign two distinct RGB effects to different sections of the keyboard, providing greater control over lighting settings.

    3. The ability to incorporate multiple backlighting effects on each layer, with a timer for switching, adds to the creative options for users.

    4. Adjustable debounce settings have been introduced to minimize double inputs and improve wireless battery life, with users able to choose their debounce algorithm.

    5. While most Keychron keyboards have been updated with new features, Hall-effect keyboards are still awaiting firmware updates to access enhanced RGB and sleep settings.

    At this moment, we’ve shared various reviews of Keychron’s mechanical and Hall-effect keyboards. In our latest evaluations of the Keychron K4 HE and Q13 Max, we discovered that Keychron Launcher stands out as a significant advantage, providing many customization choices that enable users to tailor their keyboards to their needs.

    New Features Galore

    Recently, an update to Keychron Launcher has introduced a multitude of features for nearly all Q, K, and V Max series keyboards. The most notable changes include extensive RGB customization, allowing individual key color and effect modifications, as well as SOCD support, a feature typically exclusive to Hall-effect keyboards.

    The Keychron V1 Max is currently available for $93.60 at Best Buy.

    Enhanced Customization Options

    In the past, Keychron Launcher primarily offered various RGB modes. While these modes showed a good range, users had limited control beyond adjusting brightness, color, and speed of effects. Now, users can customize the color of each key individually. Additionally, Launcher enables users to assign two distinct RGB effects to different sections of the same keyboard— users can decide which keys belong to each section and assign various parameters like effects, speeds, colors, and backlighting brightness.

    We ran a quick test on our Q13 Max review unit, and the added customization features are quite impressive, almost matching the Backlight Studio found in Wooting’s Wootility.

    Unique Layering Effects

    Another feature added to Keychron Launcher is the ability to incorporate multiple backlighting effects on each layer, switching between them according to a timer. While this may not seem particularly beneficial, some imaginative users might find ways to utilize it effectively.

    The additional upgrade in Keychron Launcher is SOCD, which has been integrated using the Last Key Priority (LKP) mode. Similar to the Wooting 80HE, once set up, Keychron’s mechanical keyboards will prioritize the last key pressed by the user. Users will need to navigate to Launcher to choose which keys can have SOCD activated— gamers often use this on A and D for counter-strafing in competitive shooters—and it can be enabled for five key pairs on each keyboard.

    Debounce Settings and More

    Lastly, Keychron has added adjustable debounce settings and options for wireless sleep in the latest update. These settings aim to minimize double inputs and enhance battery life for wireless usage.

    Users can select their preferred debounce algorithm and set the debounce delay. There’s even an option to turn off debounce entirely, which may help reduce input lag.

    As of now, Keychron states that nearly all their keyboards compatible with Keychron Launcher have been updated, but their Hall-effect keyboards still await firmware updates. We evaluated the Keychron K4 when the new features were announced, and there has been no update yet. Keychron also informed Notebookcheck that the improved RGB and sleep settings will be available for the Hall-effect keyboards, though they are still undergoing testing.

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  • First 48 Hours After Identity Theft: Key Steps to Take

    First 48 Hours After Identity Theft: Key Steps to Take

    Key Takeaways

    1. Act quickly within the first 48 hours after discovering identity theft to minimize damage.
    2. Change passwords to stronger ones, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor unusual activity on accounts.
    3. Freeze credit with major credit bureaus to prevent further identity theft.
    4. Keep detailed documentation of fraudulent charges and communications related to the breach.
    5. Consider using services like Aura to help remove personal data from broker databases and enhance online safety.

    There are countless products and solutions that people often recommend for safeguarding personal data on the internet. Nevertheless, the issue of what steps to take after data has been misused tends to receive less focus.

    Immediate Steps After Identity Theft

    When identity theft occurs, it’s essential to act quickly and decisively to reduce damage and stop any additional fraud from happening. This may include seeking legal advice, such as what Console & Associates, P.C. offers, a law firm noted for its experience in handling class action lawsuits related to data breaches.

    The founder and leading attorney, Richard P. Console, Jr., emphasizes that acting within “the first 48 hours after discovering identity theft” is crucial for minimizing the negative consequences for the victim.

    Recommended Precautions

    During this critical time, the firm advises taking several precautionary measures, including changing passwords—preferably to stronger ones—for any financial or sensitive accounts. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication and notifications for unusual activity whenever possible, and transferring any automatic payments to new accounts can help prevent missed payments and damage to one’s credit score.

    This advice also applies to those wanting to prevent identity theft. Console & Associates suggests that victims should freeze their credit with all major credit bureaus and ensure that they receive replacement cards, statements, or credentials through their physical mail to prevent further theft.

    Documentation and Next Steps

    Finally, individuals facing this situation should keep a record of everything related to the theft, including fraudulent charges, all communications linked to the breach, and the time spent addressing these issues.

    People may then need to look into different options to recover their lost resources, time, and peace of mind due to the breach of their personal information.

    This could involve using a service that removes personal data from broker databases, with Aura being identified as the top choice for those worried about identity theft in 2025.

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  • Q4OS 5.8: New Ultralight Debian-based Distro Released

    Q4OS 5.8: New Ultralight Debian-based Distro Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Q4OS is a Linux distribution focused on supporting old hardware, particularly with 32-bit systems.
    2. The XPQ4 addon allows users to experience themes that mimic Windows versions from 2000 to XP.
    3. Q4OS 5.8 was recently released with automatic updates for current users and downloadable media for new installations.
    4. The minimum system requirements are low, with only a 1 GHz CPU and 1/5 GB memory/storage needed for the Plasma desktop and even lower for the Trinity desktop.
    5. Q4OS provides a familiar Windows-like interface, making it appealing for users looking to revive older machines without sacrificing functionality.

    Those who are still using old hardware have a wide range of choices when it comes to Linux distributions, and Q4OS is likely one of the most overlooked options available. The initial release of Q4OS was on July 4th, 2013, and it is particularly known for the XPQ4 addon, which enables users to experience visual themes that mimic the appearance of different Windows versions, starting from Windows 2000 up to XP. It continues to support 32-bit hardware and offers two desktop environments: KDE Plasma (available only for 64-bit systems) and Trinity.

    Key Features of Q4OS 5.8

    Released just yesterday, Q4OS 5.8 comes packed with several notable features. Current users will receive the update automatically through the Q4OS repository. For new users or those wishing to perform a clean installation, the latest media images can be downloaded from this page. The minimum system requirements for 2025 remain remarkably low: a 1 GHz CPU and 1/5 GB memory/storage for the Plasma desktop. For users opting for the Trinity desktop, only a 350 MHz CPU, 256 MB of memory, and 3 GB of storage space are necessary.

    A Closer Look at Q4OS

    Q4OS truly stands out as a desktop operating system. It provides a unique experience for users who want to revive older machines without compromising on functionality. With its simple yet effective design, it appeals to a niche group of users looking for a familiar Windows-like interface on their Linux systems. Whether you’re an existing user or looking to try something new, Q4OS offers an attractive option for those with limited resources.

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  • 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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