Category: Software

  • Synopsys and Nvidia Unveil F1-Style Digital Twin Racetrack

    Synopsys and Nvidia Unveil F1-Style Digital Twin Racetrack

    Key Takeaways

    1. Collaboration for Innovation: Synopsys and Nvidia have partnered to create a digital twin racetrack for STEM Racing, combining Ansys Discovery and Nvidia’s Omniverse.

    2. Cost and Time Efficiency: The digital platform allows students to conduct virtual test laps, reducing the need for expensive and time-consuming physical prototypes.

    3. Engaging Learning Experience: Demonstrations at the World Finals let participants modify vehicle components and see real-time effects on performance, enhancing engagement.

    4. Global Educational Impact: Synopsys supports over 400,000 students in 65 countries with free software and training, making advanced simulation tools more accessible.

    5. Advancement in Engineering Education: The digital platform promotes data-driven design validation, preparing students for careers in next-gen engineering and aligning education with industry practices.

    Synopsys, a well-known American technology firm, has teamed up with Nvidia through its Ansys division to launch a cutting-edge digital twin racetrack for STEM Racing. This innovative platform merges Ansys Discovery with Nvidia’s Omniverse, enabling students to create, evaluate, and fine-tune miniature F1-style vehicles entirely within a virtual setting. The complete launch is scheduled for the STEM Racing season of 2025–2026, while a basic version was showcased at the Aramco STEM Racing World Finals in Singapore from September 27 to October 2.

    Transforming Prototyping

    In the past, student teams had to construct and perfect physical models, which was often expensive and required a lot of time. However, with the new digital platform, they can conduct countless virtual test laps on a replica of the actual racetrack. By simulating factors such as airflow, drag, and downforce, students can access the same aerodynamic knowledge that professionals in motorsport and aerospace fields use.

    Engaging Demonstrations

    During the World Finals, a simplified demonstration allowed younger participants to change components like spoilers and car bodies, instantly observing how these alterations affected speed and overall performance. More advanced teams can upload intricate designs into Ansys Discovery for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis, with the outcomes visualized in Omniverse.

    As the exclusive global CFD partner for STEM Racing, Synopsys is already aiding over 400,000 students in 65 countries by providing free software, training, and support. This new project further enhances this initiative by reducing barriers to advanced simulation and high-performance computing, creating a scalable method to introduce engineering tools into classrooms around the globe.

    A New Era of Learning

    Andrew Denford, who is the founder and chairman of STEM Racing, referred to digital twins as a significant advancement for student innovation and performance. Tim Costa, the GM of industrial and computational engineering at Nvidia, underscored how Omniverse can assist in optimizing cars for specific track conditions. Synopsys has emphasized that the platform incorporates “AI-driven capabilities” to equip students for careers in next-gen engineering.

    This partnership signifies a change in the approach to design validation in STEM Racing. By shifting testing into the digital domain, Synopsys and Nvidia are establishing a system that is quicker, more accessible, and driven by data. For students, this translates to learning with tools that are influencing real-world industries, and for the competition, it signifies a significant advancement in the future of engineering education.

    Synopsys’

    Source:
    Link

     

  • Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 FE Receive One UI 8 Update

    Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 FE Receive One UI 8 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. One UI 8, based on Android 16, is rolling out to the Galaxy S23 series, starting in South Korea.
    2. The update improves user experience significantly, especially with enhancements in DeX and security features.
    3. The Secure Folder has better security protocols, and Quick Share is redesigned for easier file transfers.
    4. Daily use is enhanced with new features in the Camera app, and improved management tools for Alarms, Calendar, and Reminders.
    5. Samsung is also working on One UI 8.5, expected to launch with the Galaxy S26 series.

    Samsung is taking steps to update its latest operating system on its top devices from the last few years. The stable version of One UI 8, which is built on Android 16, has started to roll out to all models in the Galaxy S23 series, including the well-liked Galaxy S23 FE.

    Quick Rollout in South Korea

    The rollout began in South Korea, and for the Galaxy S23, Samsung is ahead of its planned schedule. This suggests that the global release will likely happen quickly in the next days and weeks.

    For the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra, One UI 8 comes with the build number S91xNKSU6EYI7. In contrast, the firmware for Galaxy S23 FE is labeled S711NKSU9DYI5.

    Major Overhaul in User Experience

    One UI 8 represents a significant overhaul, providing important improvements to how users interact with their devices.

    The update brings major changes that enhance both productivity and security. To start, the whole DeX experience has been significantly improved. Utilizing the native Desktop Mode of Android 16, the revamped DeX offers a tidier, more organized interface when you link your phone to an external display.

    Samsung has also prioritized utility. The Secure Folder now features better security protocols, while the Quick Share function has undergone a complete redesign, making it easier and faster to transfer files between Galaxy devices than ever before.

    Smarter Daily Use

    Daily interactions with the device are getting a boost too. The Camera app now includes a new gesture for quick access, streamlining photo capturing. Key apps like Alarms, Calendar, and Reminders have better management tools. Additionally, the Modes and Routines feature is enhanced with new actions, providing users with more powerful options for automating their daily tasks.

    If you have a Galaxy S23 model, be on the lookout for updates in your software settings. You should receive some exciting news soon. At the same time, Samsung is also developing One UI 8.5, which is expected to launch alongside the Galaxy S26 series.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • New Philips Hue Smart Lighting Scenes Unveiled Unexpectedly

    New Philips Hue Smart Lighting Scenes Unveiled Unexpectedly

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue has added new seasonal lighting effects in the mobile app with update version 5.51.0.
    2. Nine dynamic fall-themed lighting effects are available in the “Harvest Hues” category.
    3. The first effect, “Golden hours,” adjusts lighting to match your natural body clock over 24 hours.
    4. New scenes feature rich orange tones and options like Amber robin, Autumn gold, and Pumpkin spice.
    5. The effects are compatible with Philips Hue white and color ambiance lights, including the OmniGlow Strip light.

    Philips Hue has introduced fresh seasonal lighting effects in its mobile application. These features seem to have come with the most recent update, version 5.51.0, even if they weren’t specifically mentioned in the update notes. The release just indicated that there were “various bug fixes and stability improvements.”

    New Fall Lighting Effects

    According to Hueblog.com, a set of nine dynamic lighting effects themed around fall has shown up in the Hue scene gallery, categorized under “Harvest Hues.” The first effect, called Golden hours, is an established option that runs over a 24-hour period, adjusting the lights to match your natural body clock. Expect to see numerous scenes rich in orange tones, such as Amber robin, Autumn gold, Fall harvest, and Pumpkin spice. Users can also select other choices that feature a broader spectrum of colors, including Pumpkin patch, Downtown drizzle, Woodland toadstool, and November haze.

    Compatible Devices and Download Options

    These autumn scenes are intended for users with Philips Hue white and color ambiance smart lights, including the new OmniGlow Strip light, which is currently priced at $139.99 on Amazon. You can get the newest version of the Philips Hue app from both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Search Google in Chrome Directly from Windows 11 Search Box

    Search Google in Chrome Directly from Windows 11 Search Box

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft may update the Windows search bar to respect the user’s default browser and search engine settings.
    2. New flags indicating these changes were found in an Edge Canary build, suggesting potential new features.
    3. “DSE” likely stands for Default Search Engine and “WSB” refers to Windows Search Box.
    4. Currently, Windows Search always opens a Bing page in Edge, regardless of the default browser.
    5. The rollout of these features is uncertain, as they may not reach the general public despite being detected.

    Microsoft has often overlooked the default browser setting when using the Windows search bar, particularly outside the European Economic Area (EEA). However, it looks like this might change soon, as signs of Microsoft updating the search bar’s functionality have emerged. Unfortunately, it’s still uncertain when this new feature will be available in a final version.

    New Features Spotted

    The flags indicating these changes were initially detected by Leopeva64 and shared on X a few weeks ago (September 18). They were found in an Edge Canary build and imply that the taskbar’s Windows Search box may finally honor the user’s chosen browser and search engine. Flags such as “msExplicitLaunchNonBingDSE,” “msExplicitLaunchNonBingDSEAndNonEdgeDB,” and “msWSBLaunchNonBingDSE” hint that users might get the option to select their preferred browser and search engine through the Windows Search.

    Understanding the Flags

    As pointed out by Leopeva64, “DSE” probably stands for Default Search Engine, while “WSB” refers to Windows Search Box. Windows Latest provided a complete list of these related flags, which are worth noting.

    Being able to input a search term and then being taken to the default browser with that search would be an excellent improvement for Windows 11, should Microsoft proceed with a final version. Currently, no matter which browser is set as default, using Windows Search always results in a Bing page opening in Edge. However, since these flags were noted in Edge Canary—a version used for testing and experimentation—there’s also a chance that these features might not reach the general public.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while the potential for improved search functionality in Windows 11 is exciting, we still have to wait and see if Microsoft will roll out these updates. The detection of these flags is a positive sign, but nothing is guaranteed until an official build is released.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Panasonic Warns UK Firms: Security Risks from Windows 10 EOL

    Panasonic Warns UK Firms: Security Risks from Windows 10 EOL

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving companies without security updates or assistance.
    2. UK businesses must choose between transitioning to Windows 11 or paying for costly Extended Security Updates (ESU), which will increase in price annually.
    3. A survey revealed that over half of UK IT decision-makers doubt their ability to maintain device security without migration or ESU, highlighting significant concerns about cyber threats.
    4. German firms showed less anxiety about security risks and costs compared to UK businesses, indicating a disparity in preparedness.
    5. Compatibility issues with applications and software are a major challenge for 47% of IT managers planning the transition to Windows 11, risking disruptions in operations.

    Microsoft is set to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, which means no more security updates or technical assistance. In some areas, customers can access a year of Extended Security Updates (ESU) for free, but the UK is excluded from this benefit. This situation leaves British companies with two choices: either transition to Windows 11 or pay for ESU subscriptions, which will see their prices rise annually.

    Survey Insights

    Panasonic TOUGHBOOK carried out a survey involving 200 IT decision-makers from the UK and Germany. The findings highlight significant worries among UK participants:

    Over half of the respondents expressed doubts about their ability to maintain device security if they either fail to migrate or opt-out of ESU.

    Chris Turner, who is the Head of Go-to-Market at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Europe, emphasized the seriousness of the situation:

    “Postponing the transition to Windows 11 or choosing not to engage in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates brings considerable risks for UK firms, including increased susceptibility to cyber threats, compliance issues, and rising costs. With Windows 10 support ending shortly, outdated systems will miss out on vital patches. This scenario could leave companies, especially those in crucial infrastructure sectors, vulnerable to ransomware and operational setbacks.”

    Comparison with German Firms

    Turner pointed out that German organizations surveyed showed less concern regarding these risks, while UK businesses exhibited significantly greater anxiety about security threats and associated costs.

    Panasonic’s broader report outlines the financial implications. For a company managing 1,000 Windows 10 devices, ESU fees might accumulate to more than £340,000 in unforeseen charges once Microsoft’s per-device pricing is considered. The cost doubles each year for up to three years, making it an impractical temporary fix rather than a viable long-term strategy.

    Compatibility Concerns

    Beyond the financial aspect, software support presents another challenge. 47% of IT managers identified application and software compatibility as their primary hurdle when planning the transition to Windows 11. Many organizations anticipate disruptions as older hardware and essential business applications become unsupported.

    The message from both Microsoft and Panasonic is straightforward: inaction is not a safe option. Unsupported systems are prime targets for ransomware attacks, while compliance issues could result in regulatory penalties. For companies involved in critical services, the stakes extend beyond financial loss — outages or compromised systems can jeopardize public safety and operational stability.

    While Microsoft’s ESU program might provide temporary relief, it comes at a high cost and is short-lived. For most organizations, planning migration is no longer a matter of choice. As Turner stated, avoiding “decision paralysis” is crucial: delaying action until the last moment could turn out to be both the most expensive and risky decision.

    Source:
    N/A)

    Panasonic Warns UK Firms: Security Risks from Windows 10 EOL

     

    Tags: ,
  • HyperOS 3 Stable Update Coming Soon for Xiaomi and Redmi Devices

    HyperOS 3 Stable Update Coming Soon for Xiaomi and Redmi Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is set to launch HyperOS 3, based on Android 16, with a clear roadmap for updates for various models.
    2. New “stable beta” versions of HyperOS 3 have been identified for at least 14 devices, indicating readiness for the final update.
    3. Users in the beta program can expect the stable beta update soon; public rollout notifications will follow for others.
    4. Currently, stable beta builds are available for three global devices, with more models expected to receive updates shortly.
    5. The stable HyperOS 3 update is projected to roll out for additional devices between October and November.

    When a company holds one of the largest and most varied smartphone line-ups in the market, providing Android updates becomes quite a challenge. Nevertheless, Xiaomi has done a great job keeping us informed about its upcoming HyperOS 3, the latest software release based on Android 16. The Chinese manufacturer has already released a complete roadmap showing which models—both in China and worldwide—will receive the update, and it looks like the official stable version might be just around the corner for the first set of phones and tablets.

    New Builds for Various Devices

    Recently, new “stable beta” HyperOS 3 versions have been identified for at least 14 devices, which includes the Xiaomi 15 series, Xiaomi Pad 7 Pro, Redmi K80, and Redmi Turbo 4 Pro. The term stable beta usually suggests that the software has achieved a satisfactory level of stability. If no significant problems are discovered, this same version could be made public as the final update, which XiaomiTime believes might occur as soon as next week.

    Upcoming Updates for Users

    For those who have already signed up for the beta program, the stable beta update should arrive shortly. If you haven’t joined yet, keep an eye out for an OTA notification in the next few weeks, since the public rollout is likely imminent.

    More Devices to Come

    Currently, stable beta builds have only been seen for three global devices: the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, Xiaomi 15, and Redmi Pad 7 Pro. However, it is anticipated that more devices will soon follow, including the Redmi Note 14 series, Xiaomi Mix Flip, POCO F7 series, POCO X7 lineup, and Xiaomi Pad Mini. All these devices are confirmed to receive the stable HyperOS 3 update sometime between October and November.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • AI-Powered Chrome Password Manager for Enhanced Security

    AI-Powered Chrome Password Manager for Enhanced Security

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google Chrome has launched an AI-driven password manager that identifies weak passwords and offers an automatic password change feature.
    2. The “change it for me” feature automates the process of creating and saving strong passwords without requiring extra user input.
    3. This new functionality enhances security by quickly replacing unsafe passwords, especially benefiting users of Chrome’s built-in password manager.
    4. The automatic password change feature is limited to websites that have integrated the necessary systems, with initial partners including Spotify, Duolingo, Coursera, and H&M.
    5. Users of third-party password managers may face challenges, as the feature only works with Chrome’s password manager, and Google aims to transition to more secure options like passkeys in the future.

    Google Chrome has launched a new AI-driven password manager that identifies weak passwords. Soon, Google says, users will be able to utilize the “change it for me” feature on compatible websites. When this option is clicked, the browser automatically starts a process that (1) opens the site in the background, (2) creates a strong new password, (3) saves that password in the password manager, and (4) logs the user back in seamlessly.

    Background Automation

    This entire operation happens in the background, meaning users don’t need to enter any extra details. The newly created password isn’t shown to users, but they can access it any time through Chrome’s password manager.

    Enhancing Security

    This new functionality is designed to make the sometimes annoying task of updating passwords much easier. Automation boosts security, allowing unsafe passwords to be replaced more swiftly. It’s especially useful for those who rely on Chrome’s built-in password manager.

    However, the automatic password change feature is only functional on websites that have this option available. Initial partners for this service include Spotify, Duolingo, Coursera, and H&M. Website owners must integrate the necessary systems to enable this feature.

    Limitations for External Managers

    Users relying on third-party password managers might face some challenges, as the password changes will only take place in Chrome’s own password manager and won’t sync with those external tools.

    Google’s vision for the future is to eventually replace passwords with more secure options like passkeys. The rollout of AI-assisted password changes within Chrome Password Manager marks progress towards that goal. While passkeys are not widely adopted yet, this new feature is seen as a temporary fix to enhance user security.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Google’s New Rules May End Sideloading and Alternative App Stores

    Google’s New Rules May End Sideloading and Alternative App Stores

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android’s sideloading feature, allowing app installation from various sources, is at risk due to new developer registration requirements from Google.
    2. F-Droid warns that these regulations could threaten its operation as an open-source app store, placing Google in control of app distribution.
    3. Google’s proposed measures aim to enhance security but may lead to a decline in app availability and limit options for users, particularly impacting small developers.
    4. Centralizing app identity verification under Google could create barriers for independent and privacy-focused developers, risking the loss of diverse app offerings.
    5. Regulatory bodies, especially in Europe, are monitoring these changes, as they may conflict with laws allowing users to install apps from alternative sources.

    For many years, one of the biggest attractions of Android was the ability to sideload apps from various sources, setting it apart from iOS, which confines users to the App Store. This capability allowed Android users to install applications directly from websites or through alternative stores like F-Droid, granting them more flexibility and a feeling of autonomy over their devices. However, this freedom is now facing challenges. Google has plans to implement new developer registration requirements that could complicate the sideloading process significantly and might even eliminate independent app stores entirely.

    Concerns About Developer Registration

    F-Droid, which has been an open-source alternative to the Play Store for 15 years, has issued a warning that these new regulations could jeopardize its entire operation. According to Google’s proposed guidelines, every app would need to be associated with a registered developer identity. Developers would also have to submit government-issued ID along with their app identifiers and signing keys directly to Google. This could effectively place Google at the helm of app distribution on Android, granting it control not only over the Play Store but also over any app installed on Android devices.

    The Implications of Google’s Control

    In a blog post, F-Droid asserted that the “developer registration decree will end the F-Droid project and other free/open-source app distribution sources as we know them today.” While Google asserts that these measures will enhance security and curb the spread of malware, this claim is questionable given that the Play Store has previously hosted harmful apps despite its current verification processes. Android already includes Play Protect, a built-in feature that scans and removes dangerous apps, and F-Droid contends that an open-source model is more transparent, as the community can review the code and pinpoint problems.

    The Broader Impact on Developers and Users

    On the other hand, putting Google in charge of app identities creates a centralized authority that decides which apps can be installed and who can install them. The ramifications of this change could go beyond just security issues. Developers, especially hobbyists or small contributors, may be reluctant to provide personal identification or follow corporate-style verification processes, which could lead to a decrease in the availability of apps outside the Play Store. Privacy-oriented tools and community-driven projects may vanish entirely, resulting in a significant reduction in options for users. Even established developers could face risks, as losing a registration could mean an app would be cut off from distribution, irrespective of its popularity or usefulness.

    Regulatory Attention and Legal Challenges

    These concerns have already caught the eye of regulators, particularly in Europe, where the Digital Markets Act mandates that users should be able to install apps from alternative sources without unnecessary obstacles. If Google’s new system is perceived as making sideloading nearly impossible, it could face scrutiny and potential legal challenges within the region. In the U.S., Google is already contending with ongoing antitrust lawsuits related to app distribution, and the introduction of stricter developer identity verification is likely to be interpreted as a means of tightening its grip on the Android ecosystem.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Xiaomi Blocks New HyperOS 3 Feature for Redmi Note Smartphones

    Xiaomi Blocks New HyperOS 3 Feature for Redmi Note Smartphones

    Key Takeaways

    – Xiaomi has launched HyperOS 3 and introduced a Beta Program for user feedback before the stable release.
    – The company has clearly outlined its rollout plans for HyperOS 3, unlike competitors like Samsung.
    – A range of devices, including the Xiaomi 15T and 15T Pro, will support HyperOS 3, but some older and budget models may not.
    – Certain features of HyperOS 3, such as Hyper Island, may be limited to higher-end devices.
    – The Redmi Note 14 series is expected to receive HyperOS 3 globally next month, while the older Redmi Note 13 series may have to wait until early next year.

    Xiaomi has officially unveiled HyperOS 3 to the world after first presenting it in China last month. Similar to competitors such as Apple, Google, and Samsung, Xiaomi has launched a Beta Program, inviting enthusiastic users to test and provide feedback on HyperOS 3 ahead of its complete stable release.

    Clear Release Plans

    In contrast to Samsung, which often keeps its users uncertain about the One UI updates, Xiaomi has proactively shared its rollout plans for HyperOS 3, both in China and globally. As previously mentioned, a variety of devices will be supported across both OS platforms, including newer models like the Xiaomi 15T and Xiaomi 15T Pro. Sadly, it appears that some older and budget-friendly models will not benefit from a key feature of HyperOS 3 that Xiaomi is promoting heavily.

    Feature Limitations

    According to PaperKing13 on X, even devices such as the Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus (currently priced at $416 on Amazon) might not officially support Xiaomi’s new Hyper Island feature. It seems that not every version of HyperOS 3 is made the same. At this stage, it is still unclear whether Xiaomi will limit some of HyperOS 3’s new functionalities exclusively to higher-end devices. For further details on this issue, one can visit HyperCeiler’s GitHub page. Presently, the Redmi Note 14 series is anticipated to begin receiving HyperOS 3 globally next month in Xiaomi’s initial batch of eligible models. In contrast, users with the older Redmi Note 13 series may have to wait until early next year to access Xiaomi’s latest mobile operating system.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • HydroFlame: Online Tool to Prevent Wildfire Damage

    HydroFlame: Online Tool to Prevent Wildfire Damage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Wildfires eliminate plant life, leading to increased runoff of ash and debris into water bodies.
    2. HydroFlame uses satellite data to assess the impact of wildfires on water flow and quality.
    3. The tool forecasts areas at risk for flash floods and water contamination using hydrologic models and machine learning.
    4. HydroFlame features a historical viewer, a “what-if” scenario creator, and a predictive tool for weekly forecasts.
    5. Currently covering the Clark Fork Basin, HydroFlame plans to expand its services to California and Utah.

    When wildfires strike a community, the natural shield provided by plants is lost. This absence means there are no plants to soak up rainwater. Consequently, ash and debris from burned hillsides flow into nearby water bodies.

    Contamination Risks

    Such runoff poses a threat to the local water supply. It can also trigger flash floods. These are some of the disasters that HydroFlame aims to avert. This innovative tool utilizes satellite information to create an overview of the conditions on burned landscapes and adjacent watersheds.

    Using this data along with records from monitored rivers, hydrologic models are developed. These models illustrate the potential impacts of the fire on both water flow and quality. In regions without gauges, machine learning techniques are employed to supplement the missing data.

    Forecasting the Future

    Ultimately, all this information leads to a forecast that highlights areas vulnerable to flash floods and water contamination. HydroFlame comes with three main features: a historical viewer, a “what-if” scenario creator, and a predictive tool that produces weekly forecasts. The “what-if” scenario creator and the predictive tool are still under development.

    Recently, HydroFlame completed a successful test. It accurately forecasted mudflow events that occurred after the January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles. However, at that time, the team had not deployed on-ground sensors. This means the results of the test were not verified with data. Still, the trial acts as a practical validation for the effectiveness of HydroFlame.

    Expansion Plans

    At present, the tool only covers data for the Clark Fork Basin in Montana. However, there are plans to extend its reach to California and Utah in the future.

    Source:
    Link