Google launches new Transparency Center as a central hub for policy information

Google Transparency Center

Google has announced a new online hub called Transparency Center, where it will provide information about the policies that relate to its various products and services, including AI-related policies.

The company says that in the Transparency Center, visitors can find details about the decisions and processes that resulted in certain policies, access transparency reports and more. The hub can also be used to report policy violations to Google.

Continue reading

Google Chrome to warn users about problematic extensions

Google Chrome 117, the next major version of Google's dominant web browser, will inform users if an installed extension is no longer available on the Chrome Web Store.

Browser extensions may be removed from the official Chrome Store for extensions for a number of reasons: extension developers may pull them from the Store, Google may remove them because of malware or policy violations.

Continue reading

Microsoft is giving Windows 11 users the option to remove some bloat

Weighing scales showing Trim The Fat message

Few people would argue with the notion that Windows 11 comes with more than a little baggage. If you buy a computer with the operating system pre-installed, you can almost always expect the inclusion of bloatware from the manufacturer, but there are plenty of unwanted components even after a clean installation.

With the latest build of Windows 11, however, this is changing. Microsoft is apparently aware, and -- more importantly -- taking notice, of the fact that users are annoyed by having apps forced upon them without the option of uninstalling them. So the company is making it possible to remove more of Windows 11's built-in apps and components.

Continue reading

Microsoft reveals a secret keyboard shortcut that makes Task Manager easier to manage

Windows 10 and Windows 11 desktops

For power users, people troubleshooting problems, and anyone looking to kill a troublesome app, Windows' Task Manager is a seriously useful utility. Having been around for so many years, you might think there would be nothing new to learn about the tool. Think again!

Microsoft has just shared details of a keyboard shortcut that works in the Windows 10 and Windows 11 versions of Task Manager. For anyone who has been frustrated by the speed at which the list of processes changes, this tip is absolute gold.

Continue reading

ADATA unveils XPG CORE REACTOR II: 80 PLUS GOLD PSU ready for PCIe 5.0 and ATX 3.0

Today, ADATA unveils the XPG CORE REACTOR II series of 80 PLUS GOLD modular power supply units (PSU). A sequel to one of the most acclaimed gaming PSUs, this series embodies the same legendary build quality, compact form, and the promise of delivering consistent and efficient power. And did I mention the optimal fan curve that ensures a peaceful and quiet gaming experience?

Heeding the call from its dedicated community, XPG has incorporated direct feedback into the CORE REACTOR II. Now flaunting an updated sleek design that reflects its gaming-centric prowess, this series also introduces two robust wattage classes: 1000W and 1200W.

Continue reading

Sabrent Rocket Nano XTRM SSD features Thunderbolt and USB compatibility

There are few tech experiences as frustrating as waiting for large files to transfer. It's why Sabrent’s all-new Rocket Nano XTRM (SB-XTMN) is so exciting. If you've been on the hunt for a blazingly fast external SSD, look no further.

The Rocket Nano XTRM is not just about speed; it’s about maximizing it. When connected via its Thunderbolt 3 mode, expect a staggering 40Gbps, allowing transfers to reach an awe-inspiring 2,700MBps. If you're thinking this kind of speed might tie it down to newer tech, think again. For older USB devices, the SB-XTMN falls back to USB mode, achieving a very respectable 900MBps (USB 3.2 Gen 2x1).

Continue reading

Sensitive data is exposed in over 30 percent of cloud assets

New analysis of more than 13 billion files stored in public cloud environments reveals that more than 30 percent of cloud data assets contain sensitive information.

The study by Dig Security shows personal identifiable information (PII) is the most common sensitive data type that organizations save. In a sample data set of a billion records, more than 10 million social security numbers were found -- the sixth most common type of sensitive information -- followed by almost three million credit card numbers, the seventh most common type.

Continue reading

A quarter of IT professionals are considering quitting their jobs

Employee leaving

New research released today by Ivanti shows that a quarter of IT professionals are seriously contemplating leaving their current jobs within the next six months, potentially costing US companies upwards of $145 billion dollars.

The report also shows IT staff are 1.4 times more likely to disengage and 'quiet quit' their jobs compared to other knowledge workers.

Continue reading

The evolution of cyber threat tactics [Q&A]

Data breaches and cyberattacks are seldom far from the news, and it's an area that seldom stands still for long.

We spoke to founder and CEO of White Knight Labs, Greg Hatcher, to discuss how threat tactics are evolving and what organizations can do to protect themselves.

Continue reading

Microsoft rolls back KB5028244 update and issues advice following ClickOnce issues in Windows 10

Microsoft logo

Windows 10 users who installed the recent KB5028244 update have been experiencing issues with apps deployed with ClickOnce. The problems have seemingly been widespread as Microsoft has been forced to implement a Known Issue Rollback (KIR).

No details about the cause or scale of the issues have been revealed but KIRs are relatively rare, pointing to serious concerns. Microsoft has also issued some advice to those who have run into problems.

Continue reading

Lexar launches CFexpress Type B SILVER Series and SILVER PRO SD high-speed flash memory cards

In an age where capturing the perfect moment in split seconds is crucial, flash memory solutions are the unsung heroes. Today, Lexar raises the bar with its unveiling of two formidable cards: the Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B Card SILVER Series and the Lexar Professional SILVER PRO SD card.

The Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B Card SILVER Series is nothing short of a game-changer. Offering a staggering read speed of up to 1750MB/s, it ensures seamless transfer of high-definition photos and video footage. Combine this with write speeds soaring up to 1300MB/s and the promise of expansive storage options, and you've got a card tailor-made for the demands of professional photographers and videographers.

Continue reading

Kensington launches ergonomic Pro Fit Ergo TB450 and TB550 Trackballs

Kensington today announces the launch of its Pro Fit Ergo TB450 and TB550 Trackballs. These state-of-the-art, thumb-operated wireless trackballs, crowned with the prestigious 2023 Red Dot Design Award, cater to both everyday office workers and home aficionados. Especially for those who are conscious of ergonomics, these trackballs are heaven-sent, ensuring improved wrist and forearm alignment.

Compatibility is not an issue, as these trackballs seamlessly pair with both Windows and macOS. The brainchild behind their ergonomic design was a clay sculpture. This ensured the perfect mirroring of the human hand's contour and natural angle. The result? A hand posture that's vertical and natural, leading to unparalleled comfort and function.

Continue reading

Uncertainty and lack of preparedness holds back enterprise adoption of AI

IT leaders say AI solutions will allow them to accomplish more tasks in a day (78 percent) or improve their work-life balance (70 percent).

But despite this a survey of 2,500 global IT leaders from chip maker AMD finds nearly half (46 percent) say their organization isn't ready to implement AI. Just 19 percent say their organization will prioritize AI within the next year, while 44 percent forecast a five-year timeline.

Continue reading

Microsoft is working on a big UI facelift for PowerToys

New PowerToys homepage dashboard

There can be few tech-heads out there -- particularly if they are readers of BetaNews -- that are not aware of PowerToys. This outrageously useful collection of Windows utilities has an avid following, and each new release is eagerly lapped up as new modules are added.

The latest project for the PowerToys team is to give the app a "new homepage experience". What this means in practice is an update to the app that introduces a central dashboard that provides an overview of which modules are currently enabled, also showing helpful information such as useful keyboard shortcuts for individual utilities.

Continue reading

From humble beginnings to tech giant: Microsoft's trailblazing journey

In the annals of technological history, few narratives are as enthralling as the creation and rise of Microsoft. This powerhouse has been instrumental in shaping our interaction with technology today and owes its inception to two young, passionate, and ambitious individuals: Bill Gates and Paul Allen.

In 1975, Gates and Allen, childhood friends hailing from Seattle, were captivated by the introduction of the MITS Altair 8800, a microcomputer that set their imaginations alight. They envisioned transforming this piece of technology into something more user-friendly and accessible to the everyday person. Their innovative idea was to design a programming language that would simplify interaction with the computer.

Continue reading

© 1998-2024 BetaNews, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy - Cookie Policy.