Brian Fagioli

SparkyLinux, a well-known Debian-based distribution, has just released its latest update -- version 7.2. Code-named "Orion Belt," this update offers a variety of enhancements and new features.

As a quarterly updated point release of Sparky 7 “Orion Belt”, Sparky 7.2 maintains full compatibility with Debian 12 “Bookworm,” ensuring a seamless experience for users who rely on the solid foundation of Debian. This update brings a comprehensive package refresh, with all packages updated from both Debian and Sparky stable repositories as of December 5, 2023.

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Satechi has launched three newUSB-C products that should make great stocking-stuffers for Christmas: the USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K Cable, USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K Adapter, and USB-C 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter.

Both the USB-C to HDMI 2.1 8K Cable and the Adapter utilize the latest HDMI 2.1 technology, enabling devices with USB-C ports to connect directly to HDMI-enabled monitors. These products support a high-resolution display of 8K/60Hz. Additionally, for tasks that require smooth motion, like high-definition gaming and professional video editing, they provide a 4K/120Hz output option.

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The latest update to Facebook Messenger (aka Messenger), announced by Loredana Crisan (a Vice President at Meta), is quite monumental from a digital privacy perspective. You see, Meta has shifted to default end-to-end encryption for all personal chats and calls on Messenger, ensuring that communications are secure from sender to receiver, with no possibility of interception, even by Meta itself.

This enhancement goes beyond just encryption. Users can now edit messages up to 15 minutes after sending, offering flexibility in conversations. The update also introduces an improved disappearing messages feature, now lasting 24 hours, with a clearer interface to indicate when it is active.

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Logitech G has unveiled its latest gaming product -- the ASTRO A50 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset + Base Station. The headset is notable for its PLAYSYNC technology, which allows effortless connectivity and switching between XBOX, PS5, and PC with just a single button press.

Another key feature is the PRO-G Graphene Audio Driver technology, which enhances gaming audio performance. The 24-bit LIGHTSPEED Wireless technology ensures pro-grade performance on console platforms.

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Just in time for Christmas shopping, SOUNDPEATS today launches its newest product: the GoFree2 headphones. These have an open-ear design; a feature that enables users to immerse themselves in their favorite music while maintaining awareness of their surroundings. This design is beneficial for safety-conscious users who want to enjoy their tunes without being cut off from the world around them.

At the heart of the GoFree2 are its 16.2mm dynamic drivers, complemented by advanced low-frequency enhancement technology. These components work together to produce a sound that promises to not only be crisp and detailed, but also rich in bass. You can expect a dynamic audio experience.

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Kensington has launched the SD5800T Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Quad Video Docking Station, which can support up to four 4K monitors simultaneously. It offers a zero-footprint mounting option and integrated lock slots for added security. The dock, which can be oriented horizontally or vertically, features up to 98W of power delivery.

In terms of monitor support, the SD5800T provides dual HDMI and DisplayPort (DP) ports, accommodating various setups. This includes quad 4K @ 60Hz or single 8K @ 60Hz with DSC enabled on Windows laptops, and dual 6K @ 60Hz on certain MacBook models.

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Today, Micron unveils the 3500 NVMe solid state drive. This SSD leverages 232-layer NAND to meet the demanding requirements of business applications, scientific computing, high-end gaming, and content creation.

The 3500 SSD will be available in an M.2 form factor and offered in capacities of 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The drive features the Micron 3D TLC NAND Flash and operates on the PCIe Gen4 x4 interface with NVMe 2.0c.

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Rockstar Games, the publishing label of Take-Two Interactive Software, has finally announced the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto VI with an official trailer. Slated for a 2025 debut, this latest installment will grace both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S game consoles.

Sam Houser, the Founder of Rockstar Games, expressed his excitement about the upcoming game by saying, “Grand Theft Auto VI continues our efforts to push the limits of what’s possible in highly immersive, story-driven open-world experiences. We’re thrilled to be able to share this new vision with players everywhere.”

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Today, Lenovo announces its new Chromebox Micro. This is a new type of Chromebox: a svelte and affordable computer running ChromeOS. The first micro form factor Chromebox by Lenovo, the device is built for 24/7 digital display deployments in high-traffic facilities.

This ChromeOS computer, designed without fans or vents and resistant to dust, accommodates dual 4K resolution displays and boasts a size small enough to fit snugly in limited spaces, even more compact than many smartphones. It comes equipped with various connectivity options, including USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI ports, along with screw holes for simple installation.

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Zorin OS 17 Beta was released today, and the new pre-release version of the operating system is chock full of changes. For instance, the Zorin Menu has undergone a transformation, evolving from a simple launcher to a versatile universal search tool. This enhancement aims to streamline the user experience, allowing for quick access to files, appointments, and more with customizable search settings.

Zorin OS 17 Beta introduces an improved activities overview, emphasizing ease of use in multitasking. Workspaces are now arranged horizontally and are easily navigable, offering a more intuitive workflow.

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As we approach the end of 2023, the Linux community receives a delightful surprise: the December refresh of Mabox Linux 23.12. This update is not just a routine upgrade; it introduces the latest Long-Term Support (LTS) kernel 6.6, ensuring enhanced stability and longevity for users.

That 6.6 kernel promises support until December 2026, aligning with Mabox's commitment to long-term reliability. Additionally, Mabox hasn't forgotten its legacy hardware users, offering an alternative ISO with the older yet reliable LTS 5.4 kernel. Users can install multiple kernels, from the latest 6.6 to the sturdy 4.19 version, and select their preferred one at boot time.

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TP-Link has launched the Deco BE63 BE10000 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7 Mesh System, and it looks friggin’ incredible! Designed for homes packed with many devices, the Deco BE63 offers tri-band speeds up to 10Gbps, ensuring seamless internet coverage across spaces as large as 7,600 square feet. This versatility makes it suitable for different housing types, from apartments to large multi-level homes.

The Deco BE10000 stands out in the Wi-Fi 7 mesh system market, providing gigabit speeds of up to 5.2Gbps on the 6GHz band, 4.3Gbps on 5GHz, and 574Mbps on 2.4GHz. These speeds are delivered across 8 simultaneous streams. Its performance is significantly enhanced by features such as Multi-Link Operation, a broad 320MHz band, and advanced 4K QAM technology, making it 3.6 times faster than Wi-Fi 6/6E routers. The new 6GHz band offers ample bandwidth with minimal congestion and interference, ensuring a smooth and reliable connected experience.

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Turtle Beach has expanded its product range with the introduction of the “Designed for Xbox” Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless Smart Game Controller. This new offering, compatible with both Xbox and PC, aims to provide gamers with a variety of features and customization options.

One of the key aspects of the Stealth Ultra is its wireless connectivity. Using Turtle Beach's low-latency technology, the controller connects to Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, Smart TVs, and Android mobile devices via Bluetooth. The controller is also equipped with tactile microswitches, which are claimed to offer faster response times and a longer lifespan compared to standard controller buttons. Additionally, the AntiDrift thumbsticks are designed to reduce controller drift and improve control accuracy.

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4MLinux 44.0 series has just marked a significant milestone by achieving stable status. This new release packs a powerful suite of applications and functionalities, aiming to enhance both productivity and entertainment for its users.

At the core of document editing and office tasks, 4MLinux 44.0 offers LibreOffice 7.6.3 and GNOME Office, including AbiWord 3.0.5, GIMP 2.10.34, and Gnumeric 1.12.55. These applications provide a comprehensive and efficient environment for handling a wide range of document formats and creative tasks.

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Today, TEAMGROUP unveils the T-CREATE CinemaPr P31 Portable External SSD. What sets the CinemaPr P31 apart is its innovative design that allows it to be mounted to DSLR cameras. It includes unique 12 1/4" screw holes, complete with a bundled screw set compatible with all standard 1/4" screw hole cages. The ability to mount the SSD in multiple directions makes it incredibly adaptable to various shooting environments. Plus, its compact size and light weight of just 110g make it an effortless addition to any photographer or videographer's toolkit.

But the T-CREATE CinemaPr P31 is more than just an elegant piece of hardware. Its promises respectable performance, supporting high-speed data transfer over a USB Type-C interface, which is essential for professionals working with 6K or 8K resolutions. The storage capacity is impressive too, offering up to 4TB of space. That's enough to hold around 960 minutes of 4K 60 fps video.

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