WhatsApp Espionage on the Rise: How to Protect Yourself?

Posted on February 19, 2024 / Posted by admin / Category Tips & Tricks

WhatsApp has become an everyday tool for online conversations globally, making its users increasingly vulnerable to fraudsters and hackers. Criminals employ various tricks and manipulations to gain access to user accounts, posing a threat to our security. This article explores the escalating issue of WhatsApp espionage and offers tips on safeguarding your account.

  1. Methods of WhatsApp Espionage:
    • Criminals exploit security flaws and steal verification codes, posing diverse risks.
    • The increasing use of WhatsApp as a daily communication tool makes users prime targets for scams.
  2. Indicators of Unauthorized Access:
    • Linked devices in the WhatsApp environment may signal a hacked account.
    • Users can check connected devices by navigating to “Linked Devices” in the app and remove unfamiliar connections.
  3. Recommended Privacy Settings:
    • Adjust privacy settings in the app to minimize espionage risks.
    • Control visibility of profile picture, last online status, and location sharing in conversations.
    • Set a time interval for automatic deletion of new conversation messages.
  4. Read Receipts and Notifications:
    • Decide whether to enable or disable read receipts to manage message visibility.
    • Be cautious about group conversations where read receipts cannot be turned off.
  5. Smartphone Permissions:
    • Limit WhatsApp’s access to smartphone functions by adjusting app permissions.
    • Caution: Restricting permissions may affect app functionality.
  6. Additional Recommendations:
    • Avoid sharing sensitive information via WhatsApp.
    • Ignore contact requests from unknown individuals.
    • Refrain from forwarding chain letters.
    • Safeguard your smartphone and explore alternative communication apps.

Conclusion: WhatsApp remains a popular communication platform, but users must remain vigilant against the growing threat of espionage. By implementing recommended privacy settings and staying informed about potential risks, individuals can enhance their security on this widely used messaging app. Consider exploring alternative communication platforms for added protection.

Tags: Account Protection, Cyber Awareness, Cyber Threats, Cybercrime, Cybersecurity, Data Protection, Data Security, Digital Safety, Espionage, Messaging Apps, Mobile Permissions, Online Communication, online privacy, Privacy Measures, Privacy Settings, Scams, Smartphone Security, Social Messaging, WhatsApp Security

Thousands of Classic Movies for Free: WikiFlix as a Streaming Platform for Film Enthusiasts

Posted on February 15, 2024 / Posted by admin / Category Tips & Tricks

Tired of Netflix? Want to try something different, exceptional, and without the hassle of registrations? With WikiFlix, you can explore a diverse selection of films curated by the Wiki community, and the best part is, all content is completely free.

Paid streaming services offer extensive (and often high-quality) content, with thousands of movies and series. However, you might still find it challenging to choose or be bored with the abundance of similar themes and approaches. Perhaps a return to the roots is in order.

There are services that offer something a bit different, standing out from the crowd. One such service is the non-commercial WikiFlix, where you can watch thousands of films across various genres for free and without registration. WikiFlix’s website provides a range of interesting features, especially for classic film enthusiasts.

Wide Range of Classic Films Without Licenses

WikiFlix currently boasts a collection of over 3,000 feature-length, short, and documentary films classified as public domain. This means you can watch these films on the website without the need for a license, as they are not protected by copyright. You don’t even have to create an additional account for the web application.

The films are categorized by genres and countries. As you casually browse through the movies on the homepage, you’ll find moving images from the early days of cinema, such as the minute-long film “The Four Troublesome Heads” by film pioneer Georges Méliès from 1889, as well as famous films like the American romantic comedy “Charade” starring Cary Grant, Charlie Chaplin’s legendary “The Kid,” or Fritz Lang’s sci-fi film “Metropolis.”

However, the quality and availability of individual films depend on the medium offering the streaming. While many films on WikiFlix are in English, there is also a plethora of films for fans of French, Danish, Russian, or Japanese cinema.

The films run only in their original language, but users can choose subtitles and resolutions if available. Users can also support the website and contribute relevant information for missing film titles.

Given that filmmakers sometimes release their works into the public domain early, WikiFlix features even some contemporary pieces. For instance, the short animated film “Big Buck Bunny” from 2008, created in the Blender program, a free open-source 3D computer modeling and animation application developed by the Blender Foundation.

How WikiFlix Works

Films are added to the streaming service through the open knowledge database Wikidata, which contains over 31,000 film records.

You might be interested in Netflix has already broken many of its taboos: what else can we expect in 2024? Netflix has already broken many of its taboos: what else can we expect in 2024? News A TV remote control viewer watches Netflix

Out of these film records, 3,000 (as of the beginning of February 2024) have linked film files. The records in Wikidata are connected to film files in archives such as Wikimedia Commons, Internet Archive, or YouTube.

WikiFlix’s database is updated every hour through Wikidata. So, whenever someone adds an identifier from a film archive to a film record in Wikidata, it can be found on WikiFlix shortly after.

WikiFlix has significant growth potential due to the increasing number of films entering the public domain in the future, making them freely usable. And since Wikidata is an open database, it also has many editors who modify and contribute data records.

Tags: Cinema Diversity, Cinematic Diversity, Cinematic Experience, Classic Films, Digital Media, Entertainment, Film Archives, Film Collection, Film Community, Film Culture, Film Database, Film Enthusiasts, Film Exploration, Film Genres, Film Heritage, Film Resolutions, Film Subtitles, Free Streaming, International Cinema, Movie Buffs, Non-commercial Streaming, Open Source Films, Public Domain Movies, Streaming Platform, Wikidata, WikiFlix

Enhance Your Windows Experience with Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024

Posted on February 1, 2024 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Updates
Ashampoo® WinOptimizer 2024

Keeping up with the ever-evolving landscape of Windows software is crucial for achieving optimal system performance. In this blog post, we delve into the latest release, Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024, designed to deliver a fast, streamlined, and efficient Windows experience.

Windows Optimization Challenges: Microsoft Windows, while widely used, has its imperfections and may lack certain settings that discerning users desire. Over time, operating systems tend to slow down, accumulate browsing residues, invalid links, and unnecessary programs. Addressing these challenges, Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024 steps in to accelerate and declutter Windows, providing users with an array of customization options.

Privacy Considerations: Privacy is a top priority, and users should have control over their settings. Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024 empowers users with 20 modules to enhance system performance and tailor Windows to individual preferences. From analyzing the operating system and hardware to deleting, encrypting, or restoring data, the program offers comprehensive solutions. Users can also effectively manage user rights and power-saving plans, ensuring a personalized computing experience.

Latest Features and Updates: Built on the foundation of WinOptimizer 26, the latest version, Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024 introduces several new features and updates. Notable additions include support for profiles in Internet Cleaner, enhanced process handling with open browsers, and centralized cleaning algorithms. The Process Manager now boasts a convenient tree view and new filtering options, providing users with improved control.

Connectivity and User-Friendly Features: Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024 goes beyond mere optimization. It is seamlessly connected to the Windows Notification Center, allowing for the display of status messages for ongoing processes. Users can now enjoy a more intuitive experience with the Uninstall Manager 2, which not only removes Windows apps but also generates clear, insightful reports.

Key Features at a Glance:

  • Elimination of web browsing traces
  • Super-fast cleaners with new search algorithms
  • Cleaners with support for browser profiles
  • Improved browser handling in Internet Cleaner
  • Configuration of privacy settings
  • Defragmentation of Windows Registry
  • Management of running processes
  • Optimization of startup times
  • Secure deletion of files
  • Display of detailed system information
  • Identification of memory hogs
  • Analysis of system performance

Conclusion: Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024 stands as a comprehensive solution for Windows optimization, offering a myriad of features to cater to the diverse needs of users. By addressing privacy concerns, improving system performance, and introducing user-friendly features, this latest release continues to redefine the standards for system maintenance and optimization. Upgrade your Windows experience with Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024 for a cleaner, faster, and more personalized computing journey.

Tags: Ashampoo WinOptimizer 2024, Browser Profiles, Centralized Cleaning Algorithms, Internet Cleaner, Memory Analysis, Privacy Settings, Process Management, Registry Defragmentation, Secure File Deletion, Software Update, Startup Optimization, System Information, System Performance, Uninstall Manager, User-friendly Features, Windows Customization, Windows Notification Center, Windows Optimization

Over 150 New Features in Windows 11: Microsoft Plans a Major Update for October – AI Copilot Available

Posted on September 29, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Updates

Microsoft is rolling out an update for Windows 11, marking a new era for the operating system. Users can look forward to significant enhancements in artificial intelligence features. In advance, users can now access support for AI Copilot, which will be available as an optional update.

Microsoft is set to release another major update for Windows 11 on September 26th. This update will include a new feature called Windows Copilot with artificial intelligence, a revamped File Explorer, a new “Ink Anywhere” feature for digital pen users, significant improvements to the Paint app, and many other interesting features.

Source: YouTube/Windows

Redmond takes its AI strategy in the Windows operating system seriously, and starting from September 26th, AI Copilot will be made available to all private users of Windows 11.

  • To obtain it, you must have the current version of Windows 11 22H2.
  • AI Copilot with artificial intelligence support will be available through an optional update.
  • If you do not request it or activate it, this optional update will not install automatically.
  • The only exception is when you have the “Get the latest updates as soon as they are available” option enabled in your system. In that case, Windows 11 will automatically search for and install optional updates.
  • AI Copilot will integrate into the system as a sidebar panel on the Windows desktop.
  • If this feature is installed, you can hide Copilot.
  • It is expected that all Windows 11 22H2 users will automatically receive the new features as part of the October Patch Day on October 10, 2023.

Windows 11 Will Expand with the Introduction of AI Copilot

AI Copilot on the Windows 11 Desktop Microsoft is bringing AI Copilot to Windows 11 22H2 through an optional update. Source: Microsoft
AI Copilot on the Windows 11 Desktop Microsoft is bringing AI Copilot to Windows 11 22H2 through an optional update. Source: Microsoft

Microsoft specifies that the current installation status of Windows AI Copilot will be labeled as a preview, meaning it’s a preliminary version. Later, it should be part of the functional installation of Windows 23H2. For Windows 23H2, Redmond has not yet specified the exact release date, but it is expected to happen during the autumn of 2023.

Users will also find Copilot in the form of an icon on the Taskbar and can launch it using the keyboard shortcut [Windows] + [C].

Through Taskbar settings, Copilot can also be hidden. However, it is currently unclear whether it can be easily removed.

Windows 11 23H2: Beyond AI, a Host of Other Innovations

Windows 11 Desktop with the Copilot Panel – Microsoft aims to make Windows 11 the first operating system with AI support and Copilot functionality. Source: Microsoft

The biggest theme of Windows 11 23H2 will undoubtedly be the integration of artificial intelligence elements throughout the entire system.

Windows Copilot will be present in the sidebar panel on the right edge of the screen and can be shown or hidden using a new icon on the Taskbar or the keyboard shortcut [Windows] + [C]. You will primarily use it for the following tasks:

  1. Using the Bing Chat service: The Copilot sidebar resembles a mini Edge page. This allows you to use the new Bing search with all its features. It should help you with everyday tasks, routine operations, research, and work preparation.
  2. Entering commands and controlling Windows: With Copilot, you can change some system settings, such as turning on Bluetooth or taking a screenshot. Currently, everything needs to be done through text input, and the chatbot will ask for confirmation or details.

Microsoft has also incorporated artificial intelligence elements into other areas, such as recommendations on the Microsoft Store platform.

Enhanced File Explorer and Updates for the Taskbar

New Windows Explorer on the Windows 11 Desktop The File Explorer has received a significant design update. This integral part of Windows has been somewhat neglected in the past, but that is changing. Source: Microsoft

The File Explorer has also received an update. The address bar has been moved up by developers, making the tool resemble a web browser in appearance.

The details panel that displays on the right side of the File Explorer window has also been revamped. You no longer need to select the display style through a menu item; you will now have a button available. Detailed view will show a larger file preview and two buttons: Properties and Share. Additionally, there is a new catalog-style view where you can browse photos with timestamps.

In terms of archives, File Explorer previously only handled ZIP files, but now it also supports other formats like 7-Zip or RAR. Users can easily unpack them by right-clicking or double-clicking. However, it’s important to note that if you want to create archives yourself, you can only compress files into ZIP format.

On the Taskbar of Windows 11 23H2, features from Windows 10 have been reintroduced: icons can be displayed with labels, and if you have multiple windows from the same program open, they are no longer forcibly grouped.

In the Systray (notification area on the right side of the Taskbar), the notification display will change: instead of numbers, a bell symbol will be shown. Thanks to the integration of the sound mixer, you can adjust the volume of individual programs directly through the Systray icon. Backups, Wallpapers, and High-Resolution Monitor Support Backup Configuration Screen

Windows 11 23H2 will bring a whole host of smaller innovations:

  1. A new backup program to secure your data.
  2. Additional expanding features for wallpaper.
  3. If you have a monitor with HDR support, you can enjoy HDR resolution backgrounds.
  4. Items on the main Settings screen will be interactive modules.
  5. Wi-Fi network passwords will be easier to display in Network Settings.
  6. Task Manager has been redesigned.
  7. Updates for Widgets.
  8. System Microsoft programs will be marked in the Start menu.
One of the pleasant improvements in Windows 11 23H2 is stronger backup support. Source: Microsoft

However, it is not certain which of these features Microsoft will actually make available in the final release of Windows 11 23H2.

Tags: AI Copilot, Artificial Intelligence, Backups, File Explorer, High-Resolution Monitor, Microsoft, Software Update, Taskbar, Technology News, Wallpapers, Windows 11, Windows 23H2, Windows Features, Windows Update

Windows Backup Expands to Windows 10 with OneDrive Advertisement

Posted on August 16, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Updates

Windows 10 build 19045.3391 is now available in the Release Preview channel.

An unexpected addition is the Windows Backup tool.

An advertisement for OneDrive will appear in the Windows 11 Start menu.

Introduction

In late May, Microsoft introduced its backup solution – Windows Backup. While not feature-rich, it can still make life easier when you need to reinstall Windows or get a new computer. Originally appearing in the Dev channel in July, this tool is now making its way to older Windows 10 systems.

Backup Areas

The focus of the backup revolves around OneDrive, covering four main areas:

  1. Folders: Documents, photos, and other files. OneDrive’s client already offers a similar backup option.
  2. Apps: Shortcuts pinned to the taskbar and Start menu. This includes not only Store apps but also traditional programs. However, the latter still require manual reinstallation.
  3. System Settings: Certain Windows preferences will be preserved, saving you from starting from scratch.
  4. Authentication Credentials: This includes Wi-Fi passwords and more.

Recent changes allow for system recovery not only during the initial computer setup with OS installation but also when the recovery wizard reappears. However, you cannot request recovery anytime you wish.

Integration with Windows 10

Windows 10 build 19045.3391 unexpectedly introduces Windows Backup. The update, known as KB5029331, was released on August 10th to the Release Preview channel. Although Microsoft didn’t initially highlight this addition in the build announcement, some observers, including Martin Brinkmann and @PhantomOfEarth, noticed it.

Microsoft eventually confirmed the presence of Windows Backup in Windows 10 build 19045.3391 on Monday. The contents of this update will soon exit the Insider testing program and will be mandatory for all Windows 10 computers starting in September. As pointed out by @PhantomOfEarth, Microsoft is only implementing the backup tool, not the data recovery option.

It remains to be seen whether data recovery will be added later or if the tool’s purpose is to transfer settings to a new Windows 11 computer. We’ll have to wait for an answer. The lifecycle of Windows 10 will end in two years and a few months. Surprisingly, Windows Backup will make its way to the stable Windows 10 branch before the stable Windows 11 branch.

OneDrive Advertisement

Later on, an advertisement for OneDrive backup will appear in the Windows 10 Start menu. Microsoft began experimenting with this feature before the end of last year, and since this spring, it has been gradually distributed to regular Windows 11 installations.

Tags: advertisement, Backup Solution, Microsoft, OneDrive, Reinstall, Start menu, update, Windows 10, Windows Backup

iTop VPN Review: Unleashing Unparalleled Online Privacy on Windows 10

Posted on July 4, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Tips & Tricks

In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding our online privacy has become paramount. With numerous VPN options available, finding the right one for your Windows 10 device can be a daunting task. In this review, we will explore iTop VPN and compare its features with competitors to help you make an informed decision about protecting your online presence.

iTop VPN: A Game-Changer for Windows 10 Users

iTop VPN is a powerful VPN software that offers exceptional privacy and security features for Windows 10 users. Let’s delve into its key features and compare them with the competition.

  1. Unrivaled Security and Privacy: iTop VPN utilizes robust encryption protocols, including OpenVPN and IKEv2, ensuring your online activities remain shielded from potential threats. It employs a strict no-logs policy, guaranteeing that your browsing history, IP address, and connection logs are never stored or shared. In comparison to its competitors, iTop VPN stands out for its unwavering commitment to user privacy.

  2. Global Server Network: With iTop VPN’s extensive server network strategically spread across various countries, Windows 10 users gain access to an unrestricted online experience. By connecting to servers in different locations, you can bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy your favorite content from anywhere in the world. While some competitors offer a similar feature, iTop VPN’s server network is known for its reliability and consistent performance.

  3. Lightning-Fast and Reliable Connection: iTop VPN ensures a seamless browsing experience with its optimized servers and advanced protocols. Whether you’re streaming high-definition content or engaging in online gaming, iTop VPN provides blazing-fast connection speeds, leaving its competitors lagging behind. Windows 10 users can enjoy a lag-free and buffer-free online experience, even during peak usage hours.

  4. Intuitive User Interface: Designed with user-friendliness in mind, iTop VPN offers a sleek and intuitive interface, perfect for Windows 10 users. Connecting to a server is as simple as a single click, allowing even beginners to navigate the software effortlessly. Competitors often overlook the importance of a user-friendly interface, making iTop VPN a preferred choice for Windows 10 users seeking hassle-free VPN experiences.

  5. Dedicated Customer Support: iTop VPN excels in customer support, providing round-the-clock assistance to Windows 10 users. Their knowledgeable support team promptly addresses queries, technical issues, and concerns. In comparison, some competitors fall short by offering limited or delayed customer support, which can be frustrating when you need immediate assistance.

 

Conclusion: iTop VPN emerges as an exceptional VPN solution for Windows 10 users, surpassing its competitors in key areas. With its unparalleled security, global server network, lightning-fast connection speeds, intuitive interface, and dedicated customer support, iTop VPN provides Windows 10 users with a reliable and secure online experience.

Whether you’re browsing, streaming, or working, iTop VPN ensures your online activities remain private and protected. Choose iTop VPN today and take control of your online privacy on your Windows 10 device.

Tags: browsing, bypass geo-restrictions, comparison, competitors, customer support, encryption protocols, fast connection, global server network, iTop VPN, no-logs policy, online privacy, reliable connection, security, streaming, user-friendly interface, VPN software, Windows 10

Support for Windows 10 version 21H2 has ended. Only one remains.

Posted on June 16, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Updates

Support for Windows 10 version 21H2 ended on June 13th. This applies to the following editions targeted at individual users: Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations.

In practice, it means that the final service update (KB5027215) addressing various security and other issues in the operating system was released on June 13th. No further updates will be provided.

It is now necessary to transition to a supported version of the operating system. The good news is that Windows Update has likely already upgraded your installation to Windows 10 22H2. If you’re unsure, you can check the version designation in the Windows Product Information dialog. Press Win+R, type “winver” in the field, and confirm.

Which version of Windows are you using?

If you don’t want or cannot migrate to Windows 11, you can continue using Windows 10. As of April, we know that version 22H2 is the final release, and there won’t be any further versions. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about being on a supported version anymore, as regular upgrades have ended. Windows 10 22H2 will be supported until October 18, 2025.

Tags: migration, Operating System, security, support end, update, upgrades, version 21H2, Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Update

Microsoft won’t wait for Windows 12 with its AI. Copilot will be a universal assistant in Windows 11.

Posted on May 24, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News

Microsoft showcased its plans for Windows at the Build 2023 conference. Windows 11 will introduce an AI-based assistant. The upcoming release will bring a plethora of enhancements.

Windows Copilot will be a universal AI assistant in Windows 11.

AI is going to be a significant topic for Windows 11, even though it was previously associated with “Windows 12.” During the Build 2023 conference, Microsoft announced the new features it is preparing for its operating system, with the biggest one being Windows Copilot. Hence, Windows 11 will feature AI.

We have already had various Copilots, particularly the one in Edge, which practically helps us with text processing. In March, Microsoft announced the integration of Copilot into several other tools, including Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Windows Copilot will also incorporate Bing Chat, and in terms of functionality, it should not deviate significantly.

The advantage of this integration is that the chatbot will be available from any program, allowing it to universally respond to your requests while working on your computer. At least in theory. We’ll have to wait and see how it actually works in practice.

Hopefully, Microsoft intends to make up for the disappointment following the spring fiasco, where they claimed to integrate Bing Chat into the main panel. Technically, they didn’t lie, but the chatbot opened in the browser, and the whole presentation was quite misleading. This time, they explicitly mention that Copilot can respond contextually within programs, so there should be no deception. In addition to the basic chatbot, plug-in modules will make our work easier.

Windows Copilot won’t be limited to searching the internet; it will also assist with purely local tasks. It will handle things like changing settings, selecting relevant programs, and playing song lists, among others. The chatbot can be pinned to the side of the screen to ensure easy accessibility. (Until recently, it seemed that a similar feature would be added primarily to Edge, but its fate is currently unknown.)

Public testing of Copilot in Windows 11 will begin in June. While details are still forthcoming, the limited information suggests that the feature will be finalized and offered to the general public in the fall, most likely in the 23H2 version.

Tags: 23H2 version, accessibility, AI, Bing Chat, Build 2023, context, Copilot, Edge, enhancements, fall release, integration, local tasks, Microsoft, plug-in modules, programs, public testing, universal assistant, Windows 11, Windows 12

Windows 10 without new features anymore. Less than three years of patches, then death

Posted on May 23, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Updates

In recent months, we have been contemplating how many incremental versions of Windows 10 Microsoft will still release. From a user’s perspective, it doesn’t matter much because for the past few years, new major versions have brought minimal changes, and now the company is fully focused on the development of Windows 11, possibly even preparing for “Windows 12”.


Now we know for sure that last year’s version 22H2 will be the last. It was released in October, and in November, Microsoft gave it the green light and sent it into wide distribution without detailing the included novelties. Microsoft sets the lifespan of each release to two years. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, which means that this autumn there is room for one final release, a potential version 23H2.

However, we won’t see version 23H2 because we will stick with version 22H2. Its lifespan will extend to three years, until the mentioned October 2025. Microsoft published this information as a notification on their support website and mentioned it in one of their blogs.

Windows 10 will no longer receive major versions.

The above applies to the regular editions: Home, Pro, Pro Education, Pro for Workstations, as well as the enterprise edition (Enterprise) and educational edition (Education). Long-term supported versions (LTSC) have their own lifecycle settings. Currently, Microsoft supports two versions of Windows 10, with support for version 21H2 ending in June. Then, only one version will remain, the very last one.

In total, Microsoft has released fourteen incremental versions of Windows 10, with the last four offering minimal novelties, which were also focused on businesses. New versions were released twice a year, but in the autumn of 2021, the manufacturer changed their approach, stating that we can expect updates once a year. Following this change, only version 22H2 was released.

Windows 10 Version Support Start Date Support End Date
22H2 18. 10. 2022 14. 10. 2025
21H2 16. 11. 2021 11. 6. 2024
21H1 18. 5. 2021 13. 12. 2022
20H2 20. 10. 2020 9. 5. 2023
2004 27. 5. 2020 14. 12. 2021
1909 12. 11. 2019 10. 5. 2022
1903 21. 5. 2019 8. 12. 2020
1809 13. 11. 2018 11. 5. 2021
1803 30. 4. 2018 11. 5. 2021
1709 17. 10. 2017 13. 10. 2020
1703 11. 4. 2017 8. 10. 2019
1607 2. 8. 2016 9. 4. 2019
1511 10. 11. 2015 10. 10. 2017
1507 29. 7. 2015 9. 5. 2017

In conclusion, Windows 10 has reached a point where new major releases are no longer expected. Instead, the emphasis is now on providing patches and updates for the existing versions. With less than three years of patch support remaining, Windows 10 will gradually fade away, paving the way for the next generation of Microsoft’s operating system.

Tags: End of Support, Operating System, Software Updates, Windows 10, Windows 10 Features, Windows Lifecycle, Windows Versions

This is Moment 3 for Windows 11. The Clock Shows Seconds, Context Menus Controlled by Keyboard

Posted on May 22, 2023 / Posted by admin / Category General News, Updates

The final phase of testing for Moment 3 has kicked off. There are quite a few new features, but they are mostly cosmetic changes.

  • Clocks Can Display Seconds
  • The network icon indicates VPN connection, and the clock now shows seconds.
  • Copy Code with a Single Click
  • Context Menus Can Be Controlled More Easily with a Keyboard
  • Three Presets for On-Screen Keyboard Display
  • Information about USB4 Capabilities in Your Computer

A large batch of new features has landed in the Release Preview insider channel, indicating that Microsoft is preparing to release another Moment. The third major bundle of updates for Windows 11 22H2 was expected to be released in late spring or early summer, according to previous speculations.

Builds in the Release Preview channel usually don’t generate much buzz and are eventually released as optional system updates. Since spring will end along with May, which is in full swing, the timing seems right. Moment 2 was tested in February and automatically made available to the general public in March.

Microsoft has been testing incremental updates for a while in various insider channels, so the items listed should not come as a surprise. The fact that Microsoft is preparing for a release is indicated by the features being tested in build 22624 and now offered as a single package in build 22621.1776. The latter build, ending in “1,” is the one being offered to the general public as Windows 11 version 22H2.

There are quite a few new features, mainly smaller and minor ones. It cannot be stated conclusively that the following list is final because Microsoft, without warning, removed Bing Chat integration from the main panel during the official launch of Moment 2, despite not testing it publicly. So, we never know.

You can install the update, which should already be fairly polished. However, Microsoft announces in advance that the following features will be gradually enabled in that version. Controlled activation doesn’t ask if you want to try the feature, and the update installation doesn’t enable it (it won’t work without it). The activation server will handle it when it decides it’s time.


How to Get the Features among the First

Recently, Microsoft added a setting to Windows 11 that allows you to receive new features among the first. Initially, it was described rather vaguely, suggesting that optional updates would be automatically installed. However, it can also help with earlier activation of new features, which Microsoft gradually enables across installations. This also applies to the new features in Moment 3.

 

Overview of New Features

VPN Indication: A small shield icon appears on the network connection icon when the device is connected to a VPN. It is colored according to the system settings.

Clocks Show Seconds: The clock area, previously known as the notification area, now displays the time. If desired, it can also show seconds. Microsoft warns that it may have a negative impact on battery life. (It was an insurmountable issue in the 90s.)

 

Quick 2FA Code Copying: Some notifications display a button that allows you to copy the code required for two-factor authentication with a single click. This also applies to notifications from Phone Link. This feature currently only works in the English environment.

Keyboard Support in Context Menus: Modern context menus in Windows 11 have a different appearance from previous ones, and until now, the included commands did not have assigned keys to execute them. This is no longer the case. For example, in File Explorer, when you select a storage device, you can use the F key to format it in the context menu. This makes it easier to navigate and perform actions using the keyboard, providing a more efficient workflow for those who prefer keyboard shortcuts.

Three Presets for On-Screen Keyboard Display: Windows 11 offers an on-screen keyboard that can be useful for touch input or accessibility purposes. In Moment 3, there are three preset layouts available for the on-screen keyboard: Full, Thumb, and One-handed. These presets provide different configurations to accommodate various usage scenarios and device form factors.

Information about USB4 Capabilities: With the increasing prevalence of USB4 technology in modern devices, Windows 11 now provides information about the USB4 capabilities of your computer. You can easily check whether your system supports USB4 and take advantage of its enhanced features such as faster data transfer speeds and improved device connectivity.

Other Improvements and Bug Fixes: In addition to the highlighted features above, Moment 3 includes various other improvements and bug fixes to enhance the overall user experience and address known issues. These enhancements aim to make Windows 11 more stable, secure, and user-friendly.

It’s important to note that the features mentioned above are based on the information available during the testing phase of Moment 3. Microsoft may make adjustments or add additional features before the final release. Therefore, it’s always recommended to refer to official sources or release notes from Microsoft for the most accurate and up-to-date information about Windows 11 updates.

Overall, Moment 3 for Windows 11 brings several small but notable improvements, including VPN indication, clock showing seconds, enhanced keyboard support in context menus, preset layouts for the on-screen keyboard, and information about USB4 capabilities. These updates aim to enhance usability, accessibility, and overall user experience in Windows 11.

Tags: Clock, keyboard support, On-screen keyboard, Preset layouts, USB4 capabilities, VPN indication, Windows 11, Windows 11 updates