Brian Fagioli

Microsoft has rolled out a new feature in the latest Windows 11 Beta channel build, adding a Gamepad keyboard layout for the on-screen keyboard that supports Xbox controllers. This new layout allows users to navigate and type using their Xbox controllers, incorporating button accelerators for certain functions. For example, the X button functions as a backspace, and the Y button serves as the spacebar.

In addition to the button accelerators, the keyboard keys in this layout have been vertically aligned to enhance navigation patterns when using a controller. This design aims to make it easier for users to move through the keys efficiently with a gamepad.

Continue reading →

AMD and Microsoft have announced a new collaboration to bring Copilot+ PCs powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors to the market. These systems are designed to integrate advanced AI capabilities into personal computing, aiming to enhance productivity, creativity, and collaboration across various industries.

The Ryzen AI 300 Series processors are built to support multi-day battery life and enhanced security features while providing AI-driven experiences that prioritize user privacy. These processors are part of a broader effort to create a hybrid AI network that leverages localized computing alongside cloud resources, offering a versatile platform compatible with a wide range of applications.

Continue reading →

Android users across the United States now have access to early earthquake warnings, as the Android Earthquake Alerts System expands to cover all 50 states and six U.S. territories. This system, which has been instrumental in providing life-saving alerts in California, Oregon, and Washington, is being rolled out nationwide, with the deployment set to be completed in the coming weeks. This expansion ensures that millions more people are prepared when an earthquake strikes.

Since its launch in 2020, the Android Earthquake Alerts System has relied on partnerships with the United States Geological Survey (USGS), California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), and the ShakeAlert system to deliver accurate and timely alerts based on data from traditional seismometers. To extend these early warnings to areas without the USGS ShakeAlert system, Android phones themselves have been turned into mini seismometers.

Continue reading →

Intel has introduced the Intel Core Ultra 200V series, its most efficient x86 processors to date. These processors are designed to enhance the next generation of AI-enabled PCs, offering a combination of performance improvements, power efficiency, and enhanced graphics capabilities.

With over 80 consumer designs from more than 20 manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, Dell Technologies, HP, Lenovo, LG, MSI, and Samsung, the Core Ultra 200V series aims to bring advanced processing to a wide range of devices. Systems powered by 200V chips that are running the latest version of Windows will receive Copilot+ PC features as a free update starting in November.

Continue reading →

Kingston has announced the launch of the NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. The NV3 SSD aims to provide users with high capacity and 4x4 NVMe PCIe performance in a compact, single-sided M.2 2280 form factor.

The NV3 SSD is powered by a Gen 4x4 NVMe controller, delivering read/write speeds of up to 6,000/5,000MB/s. This makes it an excellent choice for a range of workloads, from content creation to gaming. The drive is available from Amazon here in capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB.

Continue reading →

v-color has introduced the world’s first RGB DDR5 O CUDIMM (High-Speed Overclocked CUDIMM), a new memory module designed for the next-generation desktop platform. This module offers higher speeds and improved efficiency, aimed at enhancing performance for a variety of desktop applications.

The RGB O CUDIMM is available in 32GB (2x16GB) and 48GB (2x24GB) capacities, with standard speeds of 6400MT/s that can be overclocked to 9200MT/s or higher. The inclusion of XMP profiles aims to simplify the overclocking process, allowing users to optimize their systems more easily.

Continue reading →

In a surprising turn of events, Windows 11 has overtaken Windows 10 as the most popular operating system among Steam users. According to the August 2024 Steam Hardware & Software Survey, Windows 11 now claims 49.17 percent of the user base, while Windows 10 has dropped to 47.09 percent. This marks the first time that Microsoft's latest OS has surpassed its predecessor.

The surge in Windows 11's popularity represents a 3.36 percent increase from the previous month, a testament to the growing acceptance and adoption of the OS. Conversely, Windows 10 saw a decline of 3.07 percent, indicating that more gamers are making the switch to the newer platform.

Continue reading →

Nitrux, the Debian-based distribution known for its focus on simplicity and performance, has just released version 3.6.1, codenamed “lp.” This release packs a series of updates and fixes that are aimed at improving the overall experience for both new and existing users.

If you’ve been contemplating a switch from Windows 11, Nitrux 3.6.1 is the perfect alternative. You can download an ISO here now.

Continue reading →

Armbian, the Linux distribution designed for ARM development boards, has just released version 24.8.1. This version of the operating system brings a ton of updates (see full changelog here) that are sure to catch the attention of enthusiasts and developers alike.

Notably, this release focuses on improving hardware compatibility, especially for those using the Odroid XU4 and RK3588 platforms, while also refining the overall system stability and performance. You can download the distro here now.

Continue reading →

Rhino Linux has released its latest version, 2024.2, bringing a bunch of updates and enhancements that make it a compelling choice for those considering a switch from Windows 11. The release includes improvements to both the distribution and the Rhino Linux wiki, offering a more streamlined and cohesive user experience.

One of the most notable changes in this version is the introduction of an upgraded Unicorn theme. This new theme replaces the previous Yaru-Purple scheme, giving the desktop environment a fresh and vibrant look. The updated theme enhances visual integration across the system, from the Rhino Linux installer to everyday applications like Thunar and XFCE4-Terminal, making the transition from Windows 11 smoother and more visually appealing.

Continue reading →

As we edge closer to the reality of 6G, the next generation of wireless communication, one of the biggest questions is how we will achieve the ultra-fast speeds and massive data capacity that it promises. The answer lies in a groundbreaking new device: a silicon-based polarization multiplexer designed to operate at terahertz (THz) frequencies.

This new polarization multiplexer is a key piece of technology that could help unlock the full potential of 6G. It works by allowing two separate streams of data to be transmitted simultaneously over the same frequency band, using different polarizations of the electromagnetic wave. This essentially doubles the data capacity of that channel, a crucial advancement given the data-hungry applications that 6G will support, such as real-time holographic communication, advanced AI-driven services, and ultra-responsive smart cities.

Continue reading →

Have you been wondering if your iPhone can run the upcoming iOS 18? Well, I have good news. Apple has revealed the devices that will be compatible with the operating system update.

The iPhone 15 series, including the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, will naturally be at the forefront of this update, benefiting from the latest features and enhancements that iOS 18 has to offer. However, the new Apple Intelligence functionality is limited to the 15 Pro models.

Continue reading →

Google has announced that AVIF, a rapidly growing image format, is now officially supported in Google Search, including Google Images and other areas where images are utilized. This means that AVIF files can now be indexed by Google without requiring any special configuration from webmasters.

AVIF, an open image file format derived from the AV1 video compression standard, has gained traction due to its efficient compression and high-quality output. Its compatibility spans across all major web browsers and is supported by various platforms, including WordPress, Joomla, and CloudFlare.

Continue reading →

HYPER has introduced its HyperJuice Qi2 lineup, designed for tech enthusiasts, Apple users, iPhone owners, and travelers. Notably, these chargers should prove to be perfect for the upcoming Apple iPhone 16 smartphones.

This new range features Qi2 technology, which allows users to charge their Qi2-enabled devices at twice the speed of the first-generation 7.5W Qi protocol. The efficiency of this charging solution is enhanced by magnetic alignment that ensures the charging coils are perfectly aligned, optimizing energy usage, reducing heat generation, and protecting battery life.

Continue reading →

As the United States nears the November elections, Google is introducing a series of new initiatives designed to ensure that voters have access to reliable information and that its platforms remain secure against potential threats. Laurie Richardson, Vice President of Trust & Safety at Google, has outlined the company's latest efforts in this regard.

Google is continuing its focus on helping users find trustworthy information related to the electoral process. As part of this, Google Search will provide users across the U.S. with aggregated resources from state election offices, sourced through Democracy Works. Additionally, YouTube will feature information panels about federal election candidates, offering details such as political party affiliation and links to official channels. Google Play has also introduced a new badge to help users identify apps that are from official government agencies, including those related to voting.

Continue reading →