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Winamp was a beloved media player for tech fans of a certain age, and there was much excitement when the software was made open source. At least it was sort of open source; restrictions on use were such that many people questioned the validity of labelling it as such when it appeared on GitHub less than a month ago.

But all of a sudden the source code is no longer available. Llama Group has now deleted the GitHub repository where the code had been published and, while there has been no official announcement made, there is speculation that the deletion came because of licensing issues with bundled codecs.

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Samsung has introduced the first-ever 24Gb GDDR7 DRAM, designed to offer high capacity and speeds exceeding 40Gbps. This new memory aims to support a range of applications, including AI computing, data centers, gaming consoles, and autonomous driving technologies.

Validation of the GDDR7 with major GPU customers is set to begin this year, with production expected to start early next year. Samsung’s use of three-level Pulse-Amplitude Modulation (PAM3) signaling contributes to a 25 percent speed improvement over previous versions, and the memory’s performance can reach up to 42.5Gbps in ideal conditions.

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TCL has introduced its new 5G connectivity device, the LINKPORT IK511, created in partnership with T-Mobile. The device allows laptops and tablets to connect to T-Mobile’s 5G standalone (SA) network, utilizing 5G RedCap technology, which offers a more secure and reliable connection than traditional Wi-Fi and 4G LTE. The TCL LINKPORT IK511 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF system.

5G RedCap, also known as Reduced Capability, provides a more affordable entry into 5G networks. The TCL LINKPORT IK511 is the first 5G RedCap device available commercially in North America and works exclusively on T-Mobile’s 5G SA network, which is the only nationwide 5G SA network in the United States.

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Windows 10 and 11 have often been criticized for their lackluster and uninspired design. Despite being "modern" operating systems, both versions seem stuck in a minimalist rut, with flat, dull icons and uninspired color schemes that feel more like placeholders than a true visual upgrade. Microsoft’s attempts at a "clean" design often come across as sterile and soulless, leaving users craving the depth and personality found in older versions like Windows 7.

Seelen UI is a Windows desktop customization tool designed to boost both personalization and productivity. It's easy to use and offers users a range of features that help tailor their desktop environment and streamline workflow.

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Amazon has launched a completely refreshed lineup of Kindle devices, including the first-ever color Kindle, a redesigned Kindle Scribe, the fastest Kindle Paperwhite to date, and a new entry-level Kindle in a striking Matcha color.

The highlight of the new range is obviously the Kindle Colorsoft, Amazon's first color Kindle. Amazon says the new device features high contrast, fast page turns, and an auto-adjusting front light, along with the added benefit of color, which allows users to enjoy book covers, images, and highlights in rich hues.

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The rush to embrace AI, especially generative AI and large language models, has outpaced most organizations' ability to keep their data safe and effectively enforce security protocols according to a new report.

The study from Swimlane shows 74 percent of cybersecurity decision-makers are aware of sensitive data being input into public AI models despite 70 percent having established protocols in place.

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BLUETTI has launched its new Handsfree Backpack Series, offering a unique combination of portable power stations and backpacks for outdoor enthusiasts and digital creators. The Handsfree 1 and Handsfree 2 models are designed to help users stay powered while on the go, providing a practical solution for those who need to charge multiple devices during extended trips.

Carrying various portable chargers and cables can often complicate outdoor activities. The Handsfree Series aims to streamline this by combining energy storage with a multifunctional backpack, reducing the need for extra gear.

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A new report from Bugcrowd finds 82 percent of ethical hackers and researchers on the platform believe that the AI threat landscape is evolving too fast to adequately secure.

Based on responses from 1,300 users of the platform, the report also finds that 71 percent say AI adds value to hacking, compared to only 21 percent in 2023. In addition, hackers are increasingly using generative AI solutions, with 77 percent now reporting the adoption of such tools -- a 13 percent increase from 2023.

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New research finds that 95 percent of workers would allow an AI avatar to perform tasks in a virtual meeting, such as making presentations, for them.

The study of 4,000 people worldwide from business travel management platform, TravelPerk shows employees prefer to assign admin-focused tasks in meetings to AI avatars, such as reminding them of deadlines (61 percent) or scheduling meetings (54 percent) which can then enable them to focus on more 'human' interactions.

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Large language models generally train on unstructured data such as text and media. But most enterprise data security strategies are designed around structured data (data organized in traditional databases or formal schemas).

The use of unstructured data in GenAI introduces new challenges for governance, privacy and security that these traditional approaches aren't equipped to handle.

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While hard drive capacities are now large enough that most people will have no problems if they were to suddenly lose nearly 9 GB of space, that’s not to say that such a loss would not lead to questions. Indeed, questions have been raised by people installing the Windows 11 2003 Update (Windows 11 24H2) only to find 8.63 GB of undeletable data.

Microsoft has acknowledged what users have discovered for themselves, confirming that there is an issue. But the issue is not that there is a hefty chunk of data drive space that can’t be recovered. Rather, Microsoft points the finger of blame at Windows’ Disk Cleanup tool, saying that a bug is a causing a “reporting error”.  

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Voyager 24.10 has officially arrived, and it’s quite the intriguing release for Linux enthusiasts. This unique distribution offers a 2-in-1 experience, combining both GNOME and Xfce desktops into one. The design has been revamped to give users a vibrant and colorful interface, blending GNOME 47 with Xfce 4.18. The result is a hybrid system that feels modern, light, fast, secure, and highly efficient, whether you’re on a PC or tablet.

What sets Voyager apart is how it manages these two distinct environments. Despite the integration, the applications tied to each desktop remain mostly invisible to the other, maintaining a clean separation. This setup allows you to switch between the desktops seamlessly. If you prefer to stick with just one, you can easily remove the other without any hassle.

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Canonical took to Twitter today to announce the name of its next Ubuntu release: Plucky Puffin. Sticking with its tradition of alliterative animal names, this moniker for Ubuntu 25.04 joins the ranks of past versions like Groovy Gorilla and Jammy Jellyfish. While no specific details have been shared yet regarding what features or improvements Plucky Puffin will bring, the name alone is enough to generate buzz among Linux enthusiasts.

Ubuntu has consistently delivered updates that focus on performance enhancements, security improvements, and new features. With each release, Canonical strives to make Ubuntu more accessible and powerful for both casual users and enterprise environments. However, it will be interesting to see if Plucky Puffin offers any major new developments or simply improves existing features. The Linux community will undoubtedly be watching closely for any signs of innovation.

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ecobee has announced the new ecobee Smart Thermostat Lite, a device designed specifically for HVAC professionals. This thermostat is available exclusively through Pro distribution channels, and its ease of installation, durability, and reliability are key selling points. Unlike some other smart thermostats, the Smart Thermostat Lite is hardwired, removing the need for charging or secondary power sources.

According to ecobee, the Smart Thermostat Lite was developed with input from HVAC professionals and builds upon previous generations of ecobee products. The thermostat is compatible with most HVAC systems, including multi-stage heating and cooling systems, radiant heating, and dual-fuel setups. It also supports additional accessories such as humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Even for homes without a C-wire, the Smart Thermostat Lite can be adapted using the ecobee Power Extender Kit.

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In February 2016, it was reported that threat actors exploited vulnerabilities in the SWIFT banking network to steal more than $80 million from the central bank of Bangladesh. SWIFT, the global financial system’s main electronic payment system, which processes billions of dollars of transactions every day, was unprepared for the threat of a major cyber attack. The incident served as a pivotal wake-up call for the entire financial services industry, highlighting the previously underestimated systemic risks posed by unsecured systems. It reinforced the need for stronger security controls, safeguards and a more proactive approach to cybersecurity across the sector.

Today, organizations understand that it’s a matter of when -- not if -- their organization or supply chain is targeted with a cyber attack. Threats continue to increase in sophistication and frequency, particularly when it comes to ransomware.

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