Microsoft releases PowerToys v0.47.0 -- download it now!
Microsoft has released an update to PowerToys, taking the utility collection up to version 0.47.0. Although the company has said that this release cycle would be focused on stability updates and optimizations, installer updates, general bug fixes, and accessibility improvements, there's still a welcome change for the Shortcut Guide tool.
Perhaps more interestingly, there is also news about the next experimental release -- PowerToys v0.48 -- which will appear just before the rollout of Windows 11 begins.
How to install Windows 11 on any computer, even those without TPM 2.0
Windows 11 is now less than a week away from rolling out to people around the world. Despite the launch being so close, there is still great confusion surrounding system requirements for the operating system, especially the need for TPM 2.0.
Many people using the PC Health Check app to test their system's compatibility with Windows 11 have been disappointed to learn that they do not have TPM 2.0 and therefore will not be able to upgrade. But a new, open-source install script has been released that makes it possible to install Windows 11 on just about any hardware, bypassing the TPM check. Say hello to MediaCreationTool.bat.
Redesigned Windows 11 Paint app rolling out now
Microsoft has completely redesigned its forthcoming operating system, and Windows Insiders have been testing it out for months, ahead of its official launch on October 5.
The apps that come with the new OS have been updated also, and Insiders in the Dev Channel now have the chance to try out the all-new Paint tool, which Microsoft describes as a "modern spin on the classic app".
Upgrading to Windows 11? Here are the compatible antivirus products you need
Microsoft is set to begin rolling out Windows 11 next week. For the most part, any programs you run on Windows 10 should run just fine on the new OS, although there will be exceptions.
Antivirus and security solutions are not all certified yet and installing security software that hasn't been fully tested with the new operating system could prove disastrous. Don't worry though, as antivirus testing service AV-Comparatives has done the hard work for you and today releases a list of "approved" security software. Is yours on the list?
Microsoft promises big changes for Skype
In a world of Zoom, Google Meet, Slack, Microsoft Teams et al, Skype has somewhat fallen out of favor. But this does not mean that Microsoft has given up on this particular messaging tool, and the company is keen to let users know that they have not been forgotten.
Promising that it will be "fast, playful, delightful and buttery smooth", Microsoft has revealed some of what it has in store for Skype. In addition to a makeover, in the pipeline is a raft of new features including call recordings, animated backgrounds and support for multiple cameras across multiple devices with TwinCam.
Most people neither know nor care about Windows 11
Microsoft is gearing up for the big launch of Windows 11 next month, and while there is enthusiasm in certain sectors, this is certainly not true across the board . The roll-out of the latest version of the operating system starts on October 5, but it seems like the company has an uphill battle on its hands to increase awareness and interest.
A new survey shows that almost two thirds of Windows users are unaware of Windows 11. Perhaps even more concerning for Microsoft is the news that of the 38 percent of users who know about the impending arrival of the new version of the operating system, a mere 41 percent intend to upgrade to Windows 11. The survey also gives an insight into what people are looking forward to in the operating system.
How to sign into Windows 11 automatically
Although there is a deal of sense in having to enter a password to access your computer, it's also a pain. Over the years, users have been gradually encouraged into creating and using a Microsoft Account to sign into Windows and other Microsoft software and services.
With Windows 11 the push has been even stronger, and this means that you have almost certainly password-protected your Windows login regardless of whether you share your computer with anyone else or not. If you've been looking for a way to sign into Windows 11 automatically, to have your password entered for you, here's what you need to know.
How to upgrade to Windows 11 for free right now
Windows 11 is now just over two weeks away from launch, but there is no need to wait until then to upgrade to the latest version of Microsoft's operating system. While there has been a great deal of interest in the new features being added to Windows 11's Beta and Dev builds over the last few months, Microsoft has just pushed out build 22000.194 to the Release Preview Channel.
Assuming no serious issues are found in the next couple of weeks, this is the final RTM build of Windows 11 that will roll out to everyone soon, but you can grab it right now and stay ahead of the game. So, if you're interested in upgrading to Windows 11 right now rather than having to wait until October 5 -- or even later -- here's what you need to know.
Microsoft is giving its Your Phone app a great redesign for Windows 11
Microsoft is busy putting the finishing touches to Windows 11 ahead of the launch at the beginning of next month. With the updated operating system comes a completely new look and design language, and this is seeping into apps as well.
We’ve already seen the likes of PowerToys getting a Windows 11 makeover, and the latest app to get the redesign treatment is Your Phone. At its Surface event earlier this week, Microsoft gave us a glimpse of the app’s new UI running on a Surface Duo 2.
Windows 7 2021 Edition brings in elements of Windows 11
Windows 11 is set to start rolling out to compatible systems from next month, but for many people, Microsoft’s operating system design peaked with Windows 7.
Will the brand new operating system win over the doubters? It’s too early to say, but Windows 7 2021 Edition gives us the best of both worlds -- the aged operating system we know and love, brought bang up to date with modern Windows 11 looks and features.
Ubuntu Linux 21.10 'Impish Indri' Beta is here
Happy Friday, dear BetaNews readers! The weekend is almost here, so hopefully you can take some time to do the things you want to do, rather than the tasks your boss or teacher makes you do. For some, that means spending time with family, watching movies, or resting up. For nerdier people, it is an excellent time to test a Linux distribution!
Today, Canonical releases the official beta version of the upcoming Ubuntu 21.10 Linux distro. Code-named "Impish Indri," the operating system features Linux kernel 5.13. Also notable, the Firefox browser that comes with Ubuntu 21.10 is a Snap rather than a typical deb -- this may prove controversial for some.
MSI PRO AP241 All-in-One PC is ready for Microsoft Windows 11
As more and more people work from home, they are quickly realizing that their dwellings are simply too small to accommodate a large desk and workstation. While some folks have turned to makeshift solutions like laptops atop kitchen tables, other workers want proper desktops and designated work areas.
While desktop towers may be too bulky, all-in-one computers could be the perfect option. Since the PC is integrated into the monitor, it has a far smaller footprint than a traditional desktop. Today, MSI launches an elegant such computer that professionals should adore. It is available in both black and white colors, so you can better match your home's decor. Called "PRO AP241 All-in-One," it ships with Windows 10, but is absolutely ready for an upgrade to the upcoming Windows 11.
Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse is made of garbage, and that's a good thing
Earlier today, Microsoft held its big Surface Event, and there were many new devices announced. As my colleague Wayne Williams shared, the company unveiled the Surface Pro 8, Surface Duo 2, and the Surface Laptop Studio just to name a few.
All of the new Surface computers are exciting, but believe it or not, I was mostly intrigued by a simple wireless mouse. Specifically, the "Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse," as it is called, really inspired me. Why? Well, the Bluetooth mouse is partly made of literal garbage. And yes, folks, that is a good thing. You see, as the name implies, the Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse is manufactured using plastic recovered from the ocean -- things like non-reusable water bottles.
Microsoft releases Windows 11 Build 22463, fixes taskbar
At a special hardware event hosted earlier today, Microsoft unveiled a number of new Surface devices designed to run Windows 11.
Following that, the company rolls out Windows 11 Preview Build 22463 to Insiders in the Dev Channel. This flight fixes a lot of problems, including the issue impacting the Taskbar where icons appeared misaligned and/or cut off.
All the new Surface devices Microsoft announced today
Today, at a online hardware event, Microsoft unveiled a large number of new Surface devices, including Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro X, Surface Go 3, and Surface Duo 2. There was also a new flagship laptop announced -- Surface Laptop Studio.
If you’re in the market for a new tablet or laptop that can run Windows 11, then Microsoft certainly has you covered.
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