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Team Kodi is hard at work on the next generation of its hugely popular home theater software. Although it will be a while before we see the first build from the Kodi 22 branch, we do have a good idea of some of the new features and improvements set to make an appearance.

One of the features that will be arriving in the future software release will be a forum-requested feature, which will allow users of the PVR & Live TV feature to have Kodi automatically delete recordings once they’ve been watched, freeing up valuable hard drive space.

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Lenovo has announced the ThinkSmart Core Gen 2, an AI-optimized compute device designed specifically for video conferencing systems. This latest offering from the tech giant features the Intel Core Ultra processor with integrated NPU, making it capable of handling AI-intensive meeting room workloads. As hybrid work environments evolve, Lenovo positions the ThinkSmart Core Gen 2 as a solution for smarter, more efficient collaboration.

Lenovo’s vision of “Smarter AI for All” is evident in this new product. AI-driven enhancements, such as predictive capabilities and real-time analytics, aim to boost productivity and improve team dynamics. This will allow IT managers to automate more complex tasks, from maintenance to monitoring, ultimately reducing their workload.

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Altec Lansing has just launched a new lineup of party speakers. These speakers, packed with features like dynamic LED lights that sync with the music, are designed to take any tailgate party or backyard BBQ to the next level.

The new collection includes the SoundRover Pro 650, along with two fresh additions to the Sonic Boom series -- the Sonic Boom 120 and Sonic Boom 180. The SoundRover Pro 650 sports a sleek, professional design, while the Sonic Boom 120 and 180 are built with rugged EVERYTHINGPROOF construction, making them resistant to water, sand, dust, and even snow.

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Large language models (LLMs) are making their way into more and more areas of our lives. But although they're improving all the time they're still far from perfect and can produce some unpredictable results.

We spoke to CEO of Patronus AI Anand Kannappan to discuss how businesses can adopt LLMs safely and avoid the pitfalls.

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Switching to Linux is like Christopher Columbus discovering America -- but in ways both good and bad. Just as Columbus set sail for uncharted waters in search of something new, users moving from Windows or macOS to Linux are venturing into unfamiliar territory, leaving behind a world they’ve known for something potentially better. However, much like the story of Columbus, this transition can come with its complexities -- and some parallels are worth exploring, including the relationship between Columbus and the Native Americans.

At first glance, making the switch to Linux might seem like entering a brand new land. The user interfaces, package managers, and the open-source philosophy can feel as different as the Americas were to Columbus. For someone who has spent years navigating Windows or macOS, things like the Linux terminal or alternative software solutions might feel like a foreign language. Instead of the Start menu, you’re greeted with new desktop environments like GNOME, KDE, or Xfce. It can feel daunting, much like Columbus’s sailors must have felt when they lost sight of the European coast.

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Windows 7 introduced a useful hidden feature called God Mode, which provides access to all admin tools and control options in one place. Since Microsoft hasn't fully removed the Control Panel from Windows 11, God Mode remains functional in the company's newest operating system -- and you can use it in Windows 10 too.

To enable God Mode, you simply need to create a folder and rename it using a specific command. In addition to the standard God Mode, there are several alternative modes you can activate. Here’s what you need to do.

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Most experts predict a quantum computer capable of breaking RSA and ECC encryption will be developed within the next decade. Virtually all of today’s security systems utilize RSA and ECC algorithms, which means the window to defend against quantum-powered attacks is rapidly closing.

The National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) has developed new post-quantum cryptography algorithms that are secure against quantum computing attacks. These standards were released in August 2024. With new standards finalized, companies must act now to begin migrating to PQC.

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Agile decision-making is often hampered by the volume and complexity of unstructured data. That’s where AI can help.

In 2022, the U.S. Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which allocated billions in investment to clean energy. This set off a race among private equity and credit firms to identify potential beneficiaries -- the companies throughout the clean energy supply chain that may need additional capital to take advantage of the new opportunities the IRA would create. It turned out to be quite a data challenge.

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Time and time again, organizations face an escalating threat to their data: Third-party breaches. As businesses increasingly rely on external vendors and partners for various services, the security of sensitive information becomes more vulnerable. This poses the question: Are traditional security measures still effective or obsolete in protecting vital information? 

There has been a notable increase in third-party breaches, with headlines featuring Snowflake, Santander and Ticketmaster as recent victims. These incidents highlight that vulnerabilities are inherent in our systems, making no organization immune to such attacks.  

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Microsoft has introduced features like “News and Interests” and the “Copilot” AI assistant to its operating systems. The aim is to provide quick access to information and productivity tools, but not everyone appreciates those tools and plenty of people would prefer a cleaner taskbar, like we had with the likes of Windows 7.

Disabling these features can streamline the desktop interface and potentially improve system performance. This guide will show you how to remove News and Interests on Windows 10 and disable Copilot and the Widgets feature on Windows 11.

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The number of malicious web requests rose by 53.2 percent in the first half of 2024, compared to the same period last year according to a new study.

The report from German cybersecurity company Myra finds that for the first quarter of 2024, the number of malicious requests on websites, online portals and web APIs increased by 29.8 percent compared to 2023. In the second quarter, the growth was even more pronounced at 80 percent.

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There's no doubt that AI is seen as flavor of the month across many sectors at the moment. But how much of this is hype and how much genuine value?

We spoke to Martin Hawksey, collaboration engineer at Qodea, to discuss GenAI and the areas where GenAI is making a real difference, some of which you may not be aware of.

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While Microsoft’s newest operating system continues to frustrate users with its limitations and updates, Ubuntu has been quietly improving. The latest release, Ubuntu 24.10 “Oracular Oriole”, is the best version yet, giving users a new Linux alternative to Windows 11 that combines cutting-edge technology with enhanced security features. Ubuntu 24.10 (download here), brings the latest Linux kernel, GNOME 47 desktop environment, and improved security tools, making it a serious contender for those considering a shift away from Microsoft’s ecosystem.

This release includes Linux kernel 6.11, which supports the latest hardware and allows for smoother integration with future updates. By adopting this newer kernel, Canonical aims to stay ahead in supporting a wide range of hardware configurations, ensuring compatibility and performance for both desktop and server users. For those running systems on Dell’s Ubuntu-powered PCs, the move promises quicker updates and better support, which is especially beneficial for enterprise deployments.

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Python is the go-to language for developers, engineers, data scientists, and hobbyists worldwide.  Known for its versatility, Python can efficiently power applications, offering remarkable speed, safety, and scalability.

Modern Python Cookbook distills Python into a collection of straightforward recipes, providing insights into specific language features within various contexts, making it an indispensable resource for mastering Python and using it to handle real-world use cases.

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Rolling Square has launched the inCharge XS, a compact and versatile 4-in-1 charging cable designed to simplify the charging experience for users on the go. The inCharge XS is an update to its previous model, the inCharge X, and aims to offer a more portable and functional solution for users dealing with tangled cables and compatibility issues.

The inCharge XS provides four different combinations -- USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C, USB-C to Lightning, and USB-A to Lightning -- ensuring it works with various devices, including iPhones, AirPods, and laptops. This multi-functional cable is intended to be a single accessory that offers quick access to power while traveling, commuting, or during emergencies.

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