Category: Software

  • New Workarounds for Bypassing Microsoft Local Account Restrictions

    New Workarounds for Bypassing Microsoft Local Account Restrictions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is enforcing stricter measures for creating or logging into online accounts during the Windows 11 OOBE process.
    2. Many users prefer to skip online sign-in, especially those without internet access, and see little benefit in a Microsoft account.
    3. Reducing flexibility in account options could be viewed as a mistake by Microsoft.
    4. Workarounds to bypass local account limitations have emerged online shortly after the changes were announced.
    5. Users can still install Windows with a local account by downloading the previous Windows 11 24H2 build and then updating to the latest version.

    As we have mentioned before, Microsoft is implementing stricter measures in the new Windows 11 versions. This means that creating or logging into an online account is almost necessary during the out-of-box experience (OOBE). While Microsoft claims this will prevent users from “skipping important setup screens,” it may leave some feeling annoyed. Many users, especially those without internet access, often skip the online sign-in step. Moreover, they don’t see much advantage in having a Microsoft account. The flexibility that Windows used to offer was one of its best features, so reducing options might seem like a mistake from Microsoft’s point of view.

    New Workarounds Appear

    Just a day after this news, various methods to get around the local account limitations during OOBE started popping up on the internet. One method, shared by X.com user @TheBobPony, suggests that users should first disconnect their internet connection if they have one:

    Command-Based Solutions

    Another method, hinted at by @GreepTheSheep, involves creating a local user account using several commands, which can make the installation a bit quicker:

    It wouldn’t be surprising if Microsoft soon puts an end to most, if not all, of these bypass methods. However, for now, there is still an easy way for users to install Windows with a local account: by downloading the previous Windows 11 24H2 build and then updating to the newest version available.

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  • Blender 5.0 Beta: Free 3D Modeling & Animation with New Features

    Blender 5.0 Beta: Free 3D Modeling & Animation with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Beta Availability: Blender 5.0 will launch on November 11, 2025, and a beta version is available for testing on Linux, macOS, and Windows.

    2. User Interface Improvements: The UI has been enhanced for better readability and organization, including a new layout and simplifications in node management.

    3. Quality of Life Changes: Several UI elements have been renamed and consolidated, simplifying customization and improving window management.

    4. Enhanced Color Support: Blender 5.0 introduces HDR and wide color gamut support, with improved rendering capabilities in both EEVEE and Cycles engines.

    5. Node Workflow Enhancements: The node system has been upgraded with new functionalities and modifiers, improving modeling performance and flexibility.

    Blender 5.0 is set to debut on November 11, 2025. Before this release, the development team has shared the Blender 5.0 beta, which includes nearly all features and updates that are expected in the final version. This beta will be utilized for testing these features.

    Downloading the Beta

    If you’re interested in trying out the new 3D modeling suite, you can grab the beta for Linux, macOS, and Windows directly from the Blender website.

    User Interface Improvements

    The new version introduces several tweaks to the UI aimed at enhancing readability and organization. For instance, nodes now have a reduced drop shadow, and the default layout now displays the 3D viewport, outliner, properties panel, and a dope sheet. Additionally, grouped nodes come with a more distinct stacked view indicator, making them simpler to identify.

    The dope sheet has replaced the timeline view that was part of the layout, making it easier to manage animations and keyframes while cutting down on clutter. Also, a new accessibility feature has been added to eliminate unnecessary animations.

    Quality of Life Changes

    Some UI elements have been renamed; for example, the HDRI Preview is now called Reference Spheres. There are also several quality-of-life improvements to the management of windows and sidebars, with snapping now enabled on the sidebar. Temporary windows will remember their size and shape after being closed and reopened.

    Blender 5.0 has undergone significant simplification, consolidating numerous settings to facilitate the creation of custom themes. The release notes mention that over 300 custom theme settings have been removed from Blender. Nonetheless, new theming options have been introduced, such as the ability to modify widget outlines based on their state. The toolbar and sidebar regions have been combined for a more cohesive theming experience.

    Enhanced Color Support

    Under-the-hood adjustments will bring HDR and wide color gamut support for both videos and images in Blender 5.0. This enhanced color support includes new options for managing and converting color spaces within the compositor nodes.

    Both EEVEE and Cycles render engines have received enhancements as well, with proper backface culling support in Blender 5.0. The Cycles engine now renders subsurface scattering more accurately, and the Principled BSDF and Metallic BSDF shaders now accommodate iridescent effects from dielectric materials.

    Memory Efficiency and Denoising

    Rendering smoke and fire simulations should consume less memory due to the shift to NanoVDB, and volume rendering will produce fewer artifacts. The OptiX denoising feature is also expected to yield higher quality images in Blender 5.0.

    Unfortunately, some changes mean that Blender will now only support Nvidia GPUs newer than the GeForce 900 series, AMD GPUs starting with GCN 4 (Polaris), and Intel Kaby Lake iGPUs.

    Node Workflow Enhancements

    The node workflow has been significantly improved, with several nodes gaining new functionalities such as effect rotation, new output and calculation modes, as well as entirely new nodes. For detailed information, check out the nodes changelog, but overall, nodes in Blender have become more robust and adaptable.

    The UV editor and modeling features have also seen multiple updates, adding six new modifiers: array, scatter on surface, instance on elements, randomise instances, curve to tube, and geometry input. The boolean modifier, a key part of the modeling workflow, has been refined with clearer options. Modifiers and modeling workflows should exhibit better performance when undoing, thanks to internal changes in how Blender handles modifier data.

    Conclusion

    Overall, Blender 5.0 appears to be a positive step forward for enhancing the free, open-source 3D modeling, animation, and rendering tool, making it more competitive with its paid alternatives.

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    Blender 5.0 Beta: Free 3D Modeling & Animation with New FeaturesBlender 5.0 Beta: Free 3D Modeling & Animation with New Features

     

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  • GIMP 3.0.6 Update: Free Image Editor Makes Ditching Adobe Easier

    GIMP 3.0.6 Update: Free Image Editor Makes Ditching Adobe Easier

    Key Takeaways

    1. GIMP 3.0.6 introduces bug fixes and enhancements for a better user experience, including improved Photoshop brush compatibility.
    2. The non-destructive editing workflow has been upgraded, with clearer communication on filter capabilities and improved performance.
    3. User interface updates include theme color integration for dockers and more precise cursor functionality for sliders.
    4. GIMP will now automatically add transparency to layers when needed, enhancing usability for less experienced users.
    5. Future updates will focus on CMYK color management, printing capabilities, and overall stability and performance improvements.

    Previously, we discussed the announcement of GIMP 3.0 and all the many improvements in UI and compatibility that this new version of the free image editor would bring. Since that time, the GIMP team has been busy working on version 3.2, which is set to introduce significant updates to features such as vector layers, link layers, the text tool, plugins, and even more refinements to the user interface.

    Update 3.0.6 Enhancements

    With the release of 3.0.6, there are lots of bug fixes, enhancements for user experience, and some adjustments that make using Photoshop brushes feel more unified. Among the most notable features introduced in GIMP 3.0 is the non-destructive editing workflow, which has seen its filters improved for better stability. The clean-up of this code aligns the development and stable code bases, bringing the latest advancements from the 3.1.4 release back to GIMP 3.0.6. Now, there’s clear communication about which filters can be applied non-destructively and which cannot. Performance upgrades have also been made to these filters.

    Interface Improvements

    The user interface has also been updated, with palette, brush, and font dockers now using theme colors—this may seem like a small change, but it could greatly enhance the overall feel of the UI. Additionally, clicking on sliders in GIMP will now produce a more precise cursor, replacing the pointing hand feature that came with the 3.0 update.

    As of version 3.0.6, GIMP will automatically add transparency to a layer when a feature requires it, no matter the file type—though the restrictions related to file types will still apply upon export. This should make features more intuitive for users, especially those who are less experienced.

    Future Changes Ahead

    Many significant updates are on the horizon for GIMP, including CMYK color management and printing capabilities. However, a lot of these updates will be background improvements aimed at enhancing the stability and performance of the free image editor. The GIMP development team is also focused on making it easier to maintain and work with the GIMP codebase, which should help in achieving feature parity with better-funded products like Photoshop.

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  • Microsoft Strengthens Local Account Restrictions in Windows 11 Setup

    Microsoft Strengthens Local Account Restrictions in Windows 11 Setup

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft prefers users to create online accounts during Windows 11 installation, discouraging local accounts.
    2. The initial setup now requires an internet connection, making it harder to bypass sign-in.
    3. Microsoft believes offline accounts may lead to users missing important setup steps.
    4. The OOBE screens promote Microsoft 365 and OneDrive, ensuring users engage with these services.
    5. New beta builds include features like an improved dark mode, which will be available in the stable version later.

    Microsoft has made it very clear that it prefers users not to create local accounts when installing Windows 11. The company has pointed out the downsides it sees in offline accounts, mainly focusing on the syncing feature.

    Changes to Initial Setup

    In earlier versions, Microsoft had blocked the widely-used OOBEbypassnro command, which let users skip part of the initial setup. This provided a way to create an offline account. Now, the company has firmed up its position on this issue.

    As revealed with the latest preview builds, the initial setup of Windows 11 now mandates an internet connection. This change has made it tougher to bypass the sign-in requirement during the out-of-box experience (OOBE).

    Microsoft’s Rationale

    The company argues that users might “accidentally skip important setup screens” if they attempt to bypass the sign-in requirement. Microsoft also claims that creating an offline account results in the PC being “not fully ready for use.”

    Interestingly, during the OOBE screens, Microsoft promotes its Microsoft 365 plan and encourages users to set up their OneDrive. These new restrictions seem to ensure that users don’t skip over these steps while configuring their Windows 11 PC (Geekom AX8 Max mini PC currently priced at $529 on Amazon).

    New Features in Beta Builds

    Of course, these new restrictions are not the only changes in the new beta builds. Microsoft has also introduced useful features, such as an improved dark mode. All of these updates will eventually be available in the stable version of Windows 11, following a few rounds of testing by the company.

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    Microsoft Strengthens Local Account Restrictions in Windows 11 Setup

     

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  • Discord Users Affected by Third-Party Data Breach

    Discord Users Affected by Third-Party Data Breach

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discord experienced a data breach tied to a third-party customer service partner, compromising personal information of certain users.
    2. Exposed data includes real names, usernames, email addresses, scanned photo IDs, some billing details, and conversations with support staff.
    3. Discord has cut off the third-party vendor’s access and is conducting a thorough internal investigation.
    4. Affected users will receive an email from Discord with details about the breach and recommended actions to take.
    5. The breach raises concerns about user trust and data security, especially following previous incidents and ongoing security feature updates.

    Discord users are being advised to be careful after the company revealed a data breach tied to one of its third-party customer service partners. The breach, made public on October 3, has reportedly compromised the personal information of certain users, including their real names, Discord usernames, email addresses, scanned photo IDs (for those contesting age verification results), and some billing details.

    Details of the Breach

    According to the official announcement from Discord, the attack was aimed at a customer service agency hired by the company, which allowed unauthorized access to information collected by its Customer Support and Trust & Safety teams. The affected data might include conversations between users and Discord support staff, IP addresses, and account-related purchase data.

    While complete credit card numbers and passwords do not seem to have been leaked, Discord mentioned that some billing information, such as payment type, the last four digits of credit cards, and purchase details, were among the exposed data. Additionally, some internal documents, like staff training materials and presentations, were accessed during the breach.

    Actions Taken by Discord

    Discord has severed the third-party vendor’s access to its systems and is conducting a thorough internal investigation. Users affected by the breach will get an email from [email protected], detailing the extent of their data exposure and any necessary actions they should take. The company has also alerted users to be wary of any suspicious messages, links, or communications claiming to be from Discord in the upcoming weeks.

    This is not the first incident involving data issues for Discord in 2025. Earlier in the year, users reported malicious links circulating in servers that installed malware and sought to collect personal information. At the same time, the platform has been actively rolling out new security and design features, including a controversial desktop UI redesign and a new Ignore feature that gives users more control over their interactions.

    User Trust and Future Steps

    A significant feature launched earlier this year was age verification, requiring users in the UK and Australia to submit government-issued IDs. Discord confirmed that individuals who provided identification in this process will receive extra notifications about the breach for transparency.

    With its community already doubtful about the company’s privacy and moderation measures, this latest breach is likely to raise new worries about how Discord handles user safety. As one of the most popular communication platforms online, Discord now faces increased pressure to restore user confidence and ensure that its expanding infrastructure doesn’t jeopardize data security.

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  • OxygenOS 16: New AI Feature Coming with OnePlus 15

    OxygenOS 16: New AI Feature Coming with OnePlus 15

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus smartphones globally run on Android with OxygenOS, while models in China use ColorOS.
    2. OxygenOS 16, based on Android 16, is set to launch with new AI features, though an exact date is not confirmed.
    3. The new AI feature, Mind Space, allows users to save notes, articles, and screenshots and will integrate with Google Gemini.
    4. Users will be able to utilize Mind Space data for tasks like trip planning.
    5. The upcoming OnePlus 15 is expected to launch in China this month, possibly alongside OxygenOS 16, with a global release rumored for November.

    The OnePlus smartphones across the world operate on the Android platform, enhanced by a unique user interface called OxygenOS. In contrast, the models available in China utilize ColorOS, which is quite similar to the interface seen in Oppo devices. The company is gearing up to launch the new version of OxygenOS, based on Android 16. Although an exact launch date hasn’t been provided yet, OnePlus has hinted at new AI features coming in OxygenOS 16.

    New AI Integration

    Mind Space is a new AI function that was revealed with the OnePlus 13s. It’s a journaling feature that lets users save notes, articles, and screenshots conveniently. Recently, OnePlus India announced on X that Google Gemini will be incorporated into Mind Space. The promotional image implies that users will have the ability to retrieve information from Mind Space for various tasks. For instance, users might be able to ask Gemini to organize a trip using the data stored in Mind Space.

    Upcoming Features

    The promotional image also indicates that this feature will soon be available on “OnePlus Flagship devices with OxygenOS 16.” For those who might not know, the OnePlus 15 is anticipated to launch as the flagship model in China this month. Additionally, there are rumors suggesting that the global release could take place in November. Therefore, it’s highly probable that OxygenOS 16 will be introduced alongside the OnePlus 15.

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    OxygenOS 16: New AI Feature Coming with OnePlus 15

     

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  • Asahi Beer Faces Supply Issues After Ransomware Attack

    Asahi Beer Faces Supply Issues After Ransomware Attack

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asahi Group Holdings faced a ransomware attack on September 29, disrupting its beer supply and operations.
    2. The company has halted automated order placement and shipping, resorting to manual processing due to compromised systems.
    3. An investigation is ongoing to assess potential unauthorized data transfer, with external cybersecurity experts involved.
    4. Asahi’s President apologized to stakeholders and emphasized efforts to restore services and maintain product supply.
    5. The financial impact of the incident is under evaluation, with no clear recovery timeline established yet.

    Asahi Group Holdings, a major beverage company in Japan, is experiencing significant interruptions in its beer supply due to a ransomware attack that has severely affected its systems.

    Cyberattack Discovery

    The cyber incident was first identified on September 29, leading the company to quickly set up an Emergency Response Headquarters to look into the matter. The attack specifically targeted Asahi’s servers, causing the company to isolate compromised systems to mitigate further harm.

    Current Operations

    Due to the attack, the automated order placement and shipping processes are currently on hold, and email communication from outside sources is not functioning. To keep things running, Asahi has started to process and ship orders manually on a partial basis.

    This disruption impacts several domestic branches, which include Asahi Breweries, Asahi Soft Drinks, and Asahi Group Foods.

    Data Breach Investigation

    While Asahi has indicated that there are signs of a possible unauthorized data transfer, it has not provided specific details about what kind of information might be involved. The Emergency Response Headquarters is working with external cybersecurity specialists to assess the extent and nature of any possible data breach.

    Asahi’s President and Group CEO, Atsushi Katsuki, has publicly apologized to stakeholders for the inconvenience caused by the system disruption. “I wish to sincerely apologize for any issues our stakeholders are experiencing due to this recent system failure,” he stated.

    Efforts to Restore Services

    Katsuki mentioned that the company is actively investigating to clarify the nature and extent of the potential unauthorized data transfer. “We are doing everything we can to restore the systems promptly while also putting in place alternative measures to ensure that we continue to supply products to our customers,” Katsuki added.

    He wrapped up by expressing gratitude to stakeholders for their patience and understanding. “We thank you for your support and understanding during this time.”

    Asahi is also in the process of preparing to partially and gradually restart call center operations, which includes customer service for Asahi Breweries, Asahi Soft Drinks, and Asahi Group Foods. They aim to begin this during the week of October 6.

    Financial Impact and Recovery Timeline

    Although the company has not established a clear timeline for the complete recovery of its systems, it has confirmed that it is still evaluating the potential effects of the incident on its financial performance for the fiscal year ending in December 2025. Currently, the impact of the disruption is confined to Japan.

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  • Near-Earth Asteroid Flyby: Close Encounter on October 1, 2025

    Near-Earth Asteroid Flyby: Close Encounter on October 1, 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The asteroid 2025 TF was detected by the Catalina Sky Survey as it passed over Antarctica.
    2. It flew within 400 kilometers of Earth on October 1, 2025, but poses no threat to our planet.
    3. The asteroid’s diameter is estimated to be between 1.2 and 2.7 meters, making it small and less dangerous.
    4. Identifying near-Earth objects is challenging, especially for small asteroids like 2025 TF due to their speed.
    5. The close encounter may lead to improvements in detection systems for monitoring potential hazardous asteroids in the future.

    Many objects in space move around our solar system, and they can sometimes bring unexpected findings. A nearby asteroid known as 2025 TF flew close to Earth on October 1, 2025, catching the attention of several researchers.

    Detection of the Asteroid

    This particular asteroid was first spotted by the Catalina Sky Survey located in Arizona as it traveled over Antarctica. The information that was gathered about it was provided by the Minor Planet Center, an international body dedicated to monitoring various celestial bodies.

    Close Encounter

    It’s important to mention that this asteroid came within 400 kilometers of Earth, which is remarkably close when you think about the vastness of the universe. Nonetheless, there was no cause for alarm as this asteroid poses no threat; in fact, it might even collide with the Moon in 2032. Its diameter is estimated to be between 1.2 and 2.7 meters, meaning it does not present a danger to our planet.

    Yet, one must be cautious. Identifying celestial objects that come near to us is a challenging endeavor. Scientists and astronomers are required to continuously observe the sky for asteroids that haven’t been found yet, which could be hazardous to Earth. This task becomes even tougher for asteroids similar in size to 2025 TF, as they are nearly impossible to detect due to their speed.

    Future Improvements in Detection

    Nevertheless, this close flyby of Earth could assist in enhancing our detection systems. Such improvements might help avert possible disasters in the time ahead.

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  • HyperOS 3: 20 Xiaomi Devices Not Supported in New Release

    HyperOS 3: 20 Xiaomi Devices Not Supported in New Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is launching HyperOS 3 globally in three phases from this month until March 2026.
    2. Some older smartphones, like the Xiaomi 11T series, will not receive the HyperOS 3 update.
    3. Certain eligible devices, such as the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, will lack features like Hyper Island.
    4. The Poco X5 Pro 5G will reach its end-of-life by February 2026 and is not included in the HyperOS 3 rollout.
    5. Many Poco, Redmi, and Xiaomi devices are excluded from the HyperOS 3 plans and are nearing their end-of-life this year.

    Xiaomi has officially shared its global launch plans for HyperOS 3, marking a significant update to its operating system. To summarize, the HyperOS 3 rollout is organized into three phases that will take place from this month until March 2026. Recently, Xiaomi also released a similar update for China, which featured devices tailored for that specific market, including the Mix Fold foldables and the Redmi K series.

    Device Updates and Exclusions

    As mentioned earlier, some of the older smartphones, such as those from the Xiaomi 11T series, have already received their last updates. Therefore, these devices will not be upgraded to HyperOS 3. Nevertheless, certain devices eligible for HyperOS 3 will still lack some features like Hyper Island; an example of this is the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, which is currently priced at $415 on Amazon.

    Clarity on HyperOS 3 Rollout

    With the HyperOS 3 rollout timeline now established until spring, it has become evident which devices are excluded from Xiaomi’s plans. For instance, the Poco X5 Pro 5G is set to reach its end-of-life by February 2026, which is also when it will receive its final security update. Consequently, Xiaomi has not listed this model among the devices eligible for HyperOS 3. Presently, several Poco, Redmi, and Xiaomi devices are not included in the official rollout plans for HyperOS 3 and are also nearing their end-of-life this year.

    Xiaomi via XiaomiTime

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  • Home Assistant 2025.10 Launches New AI Image Generation Tool

    Home Assistant 2025.10 Launches New AI Image Generation Tool

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhancements to the automations editor, including resizable sidebar and keyboard shortcuts (CTRL+V, CTRL+Z, CTRL+Y).
    2. Improvements in voice assistant features with options for two wake words and intelligent dashboards that suggest entities.
    3. Introduction of AI Task feature that can generate images based on user activity (e.g., cartoon images from smart doorbell captures).
    4. New integrations added for Libre Hardware Monitor, Droplet water usage monitor, and Cync smart products.
    5. Updated Philips Hue integration now supports MotionAware sensors with the new Hue Bridge Pro.

    Home Assistant 2025.10 is now out! This new version of the open-source software for smart home automation is the tenth one released this year. The last version, 2025.9, introduced a new automations sidebar and extra features for tiles.

    Automations Editor Enhancements

    According to the change log for Home Assistant 2025.10, there are additional updates for the automations editor. The sidebar that was recently added can now be resized, and users can utilize CTRL+V as a paste shortcut. The overflow menu, which can be activated by the (…) button, has been moved back to the main part of the editor. Users now have the ability to undo or redo changes, with the helpful CTRL+Z and CTRL+Y keyboard shortcuts available for convenience.

    Voice Assistant Improvements

    Another notable change involves the ESPHome-based voice assistants, allowing users to select two wake words along with two assistants for their configuration. The dashboards are reported to be more intelligent, offering suggested entities based on user activities and the current time. Additionally, the AI Task feature can generate images. For instance, with a smart doorbell, you can set it to display a cartoon version of the image captured when someone visits your home (see demo video below).

    New Integrations Available

    Moreover, there are fresh integrations for Libre Hardware Monitor, Droplet water usage monitor, and Cync (previously known as C by GE) products, including the GE Cync A19 LED Smart Light Bulbs (2-pack currently priced at $22.97 on Amazon). Furthermore, the Philips Hue integration now supports MotionAware sensors with the new Hue Bridge Pro. For more details, you can check out the complete release notes for Home Assistant 2025.10 on the company’s blog.

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