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We live in hope. Hope that Microsoft commits to a full new operating system this autumn rather than yet another feature update, as some predict. But most of all we [...]

Back when I was somewhat younger, 'the computer' was that thing on your desk, or hauled around in a heavy laptop case. Today it is everywhere: on my wrist, in [...]

There's a standoff happening between the American tech giants and governments around the world. Google is under significant pressure in the US, with calls for it to be split up. [...]

We're in the middle of the Forth Road Bridge in England, when the automated systems controlling the bus decide they're unhappy and ask the safety driver to take back control. [...]

The article discusses various topics related to technology and computing. The author shares their positive experience with the Apple Vision Pro, praising its capabilities and display quality. They also discuss their experiment with paying for a premium Twitter account and express their concerns about the use of AI-assisted photography. Additionally, the author mentions their discovery of Carpuride, a device that allows them to use CarPlay on their motorbike. The article concludes with the author's frustration with the quality and security of cheap IoT devices and their call for better regulations in the industry. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the CrowdStrike update that caused widespread disruptions to internet services. The update, intended to enhance security, resulted in Windows computers crashing and requiring hands-on access to fix. The issue stemmed from a kernel driver that was supposed to scan network traffic and monitor disk storage, but a faulty definition file caused the driver to crash the system. The article raises questions about the testing and deployment processes of security companies like CrowdStrike and highlights the potential risks associated with relying on third-party drivers for IT security. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides a timeline of significant events in the technology industry from 2003 to 2023. It highlights key moments such as the launch of popular platforms like Eve Online, MySpace, and Zoom, as well as the introduction of groundbreaking products like the iPhone, Kindle, and Tesla Roadster. The document also discusses the impact of emerging technologies like AI and virtual reality, as well as the challenges and controversies faced by companies like Microsoft and Twitter. Overall, it offers a comprehensive overview of the major developments and trends in the tech industry over the past two decades. [Extracted from the article]

This article presents a compilation of desired features and improvements for the next version of Windows, referred to as Windows 12. The authors consulted experts and users to create a wishlist that includes better touch interface support, improved AI integration, a more cohesive user experience across devices, and enhanced performance. They also express a desire for a split-personality option for work and personal use, improved webcam software, and a commitment to ARM architecture. The authors hope that Microsoft will address these frustrations and deliver an operating system that meets their expectations. Additionally, the article discusses various features and improvements that would like to see in Windows 12, such as an open approach to storage, the ability to exclude certain updates and prevent driver updates, improved backup and system transfers, class-leading remote access and setup, more timely security updates, built-in protection against ransomware attacks, and changes to the user interface. The article also mentions the desire for a better touch interface, voice-typing capabilities without relying on the cloud, improved support for working from home, and better compatibility with ARM processors. Overall, the article provides a range of perspectives and suggestions for enhancing the Windows operating system. [Extracted from the article]

The US government has banned the use of Kaspersky antivirus software due to concerns about its ties to the Russian government and potential risks to national security. While existing customers can continue to use the software, new customers will be unable to purchase it and updates will cease after September 29, 2024. The US government claims that Kaspersky has access to user data and can be directed by Russian intelligence services. However, the extent of these claims remains uncertain. Library patrons should consider the potential risks and alternatives when choosing antivirus software. [Extracted from the article]

They say you should never meet your heroes, but they are wrong. No-one is perfect, but my heroes have a spark, a passion and a genius that showed you why [...]

PRICE Not stated * AVAILABLE Winter 2024 Putting a heads-up display in the eyeline of a motorbike rider has been a long-term goal of many vendors. BMW, famous for its [...]

PRICE From [euro]1,299 AVAILABLE Now A big black box in the middle of the showfloor? How could I not stop to chat, and I'm glad I did as this is [...]

PRICE TBC AVAILABLE TBC Some of the most exciting uses of Al and machine vision is in the area of support for people living with disabilities such as blindness. Ximira [...]

PRICE N/A * AVAILABLE TBC Is it January, says Samsung to itself? Then it must be time to unveil our latest TV and display technology at CES! It was no [...]

For my recent trip to CES in Las Vegas, I decided to fly to Los Angeles, pick up and rental car and drive over. I have had too many bad [...]

The article discusses the author's experience with upgrading to the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Apple Watch 2 Ultra, highlighting technical improvements and personal reasons for the upgrades. The author also explores challenges faced with migrating an eSIM from one Apple Watch to another, specifically with UK telcos, and expresses disappointment with wireless charging capabilities. Additionally, the article touches on the author's use of the Apple Vision Pro for entertainment and security camera options for home or office use. [Extracted from the article]

Here's a scenario that may sound familiar. An industry in turmoil due to a Big Change, with the market rapidly switch to a new technology. Small, nippy companies native to [...]

I only got into Lego a few years ago. I never grew up on it, with my fascinations covered by understanding how computers and networks worked. Sometimes this was incredibly [...]

This article explores the potential of Windows on ARM, specifically with the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite CPUs. The author acknowledges the limitations and failures of previous versions of Windows on ARM but suggests that the new CPUs could lead to a more successful platform. The article also mentions the impressive performance and engineering of the new iPad Pro with the M4 CPU. The author then shares their personal experience migrating from an Intel MacBook Pro to an ARM M2 MacBook Air, discussing the ease of the migration process and their decision to do a fresh installation of the operating system. Additionally, the article briefly mentions the release of MS-DOS 4.0 source code by Microsoft and the author's training in selling AI technology through Microsoft's ExpertZone program. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the importance of protecting data from ransomware attacks and emphasizes the limitations of relying solely on cloud storage services for data protection. It suggests that data should be stored on multiple devices and highlights the risks of ransomware encrypting files in both local and cloud storage. The article introduces the concept of file system snapshots as a way to protect against data loss and corruption caused by malware. It recommends using a network-attached storage (NAS) device with snapshotting capabilities and syncing data with cloud services for added protection. The article also mentions the support provided by antivirus security companies for older versions of Windows that are no longer supported by Microsoft. [Extracted from the article]

The author discusses their experience with upgrading their home security camera system. They initially used cheap Chinese cameras that had a flaw where they would create their own Wi-Fi hotspot and DHCP server when they crashed and reset, causing network connectivity issues. The author decided to replace these cameras with higher-quality options from Samsung, which later became Wisenet and then Hanwha Vision. They ultimately chose to purchase three Synology BC500 cameras, which met their requirements for PoE, Ethernet, local storage, and image quality. The author also mentions their positive experience with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and their switch from Authy to Bitwarden for 2FA. Additionally, they discuss their decision to use Starlink as a backup internet connection, highlighting its ease of setup and reliability. They recommend considering Starlink as a backup option for businesses and individuals in remote areas with poor internet connectivity. [Extracted from the article]

I love a good computer jumble fair. You never know what you might find, and there is always the tantalising possibility of coming across something extremely rare that you have [...]

Microsoft's announcement that it is rolling out its Copilot AI and large language model (LLM) technology into Office 365 is both thrilling and terrifying. It doesn't come cheap, of course. [...]

I cannot let the final public unveiling of the Apple Vision Pro headset go without comment. Of course, proof is in the pudding, but I'll stick my neck out now [...]

This article provides an overview of the author's experiences with various mobile providers and eSIM services. The author expresses frustration with their current provider, Three, and discusses their search for an alternative. They highlight their positive experience using Holafly's eSIMs during a trip to the US. The article briefly mentions the use of eSIMs in an LTE-supporting Apple Watch. Additionally, the author briefly mentions their disappointment with the UniFi U7 Pro's Wi-Fi 7 capabilities and highlights the UniFi Enterprise 8's 2.5GbE ports with PoE+. [Extracted from the article]

Apple has proposed changes to its App Store in response to EU regulations, which aim to increase competition and provide more choices for users. The changes allow for third-party app stores, but apps still need to be approved by Apple. Developers can choose to stay within the current framework or support third-party app stores, but there are associated costs and limitations. The effectiveness of these changes and their compliance with the Digital Markets Act are still uncertain. The article also discusses popular apps and product reviews on the App Store. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses two issues related to wireless networks. The first issue involves a dishwasher that stopped sending notification emails due to a change in the Wi-Fi network configuration. The author emphasizes the importance of having a Wi-Fi infrastructure that can accommodate different devices and optimize network performance. The second issue pertains to a failing NAS disk and the concept of bad sectors on drives. The author shares their experience with a failing hard drive in their backup server and highlights the importance of having a hot-spare drive in the array. They also mention using VLANs to manage different types of network traffic. The author concludes by stating that they will continue monitoring the failing drive but are leaving it alone for now due to the backup server's redundancy. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the CES 2024 event, highlighting various tech products and new technologies. It mentions a range of products including laptops, CPUs, keyboards, and monitors from brands like Alienware, Razer, Lenovo, Asus, Acer, and Dell. The article also discusses the concept of AI PCs and advises caution in investing in them. Additionally, it covers a wide array of technological products showcased at CES 2024, including Bluetooth technology, earbuds, VR systems, AR glasses, medical devices, smart mirrors, and telescopes. [Extracted from the article]

Connectors are a very important part of our computing world. We need to join up accessories to computers. Screens to laptops. Networks to devices. We need to get power in [...]

Las Vegas is a curious place. I have come nearly every year since 1990, often twice a year, lured by the best conferences in the world. The scale of the [...]

This article provides information on the options available to users of Windows 10 as it approaches its end of life in 2025. The recommended option is to upgrade to Windows 11, but alternative options such as Linux Mint and Tiny11 are also explored. Linux Mint is highlighted as a user-friendly and cost-effective alternative, while Tiny11 is a stripped-down version of Windows 11 that can run on older hardware. The article emphasizes the importance of not discarding old PCs and suggests donating them to organizations that refurbish and distribute them to those in need. It also discusses other options like Ghost Spectre 11, ReviOS, and streaming a Windows desktop using Windows 365. The article concludes by discussing the security implications of continuing to use Windows 10 after its end of support date. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the author's experience with recovering data from a corrupt USB drive. The author emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with data recovery and recommends Ontrack's EasyRecovery software. The author also shares their observations about the battery life of their iPhone while roaming, issues with data reporting from their mobile network provider, and problems with watching videos on their device. Additionally, the article briefly mentions the author's visit to Naples and their preference for using password managers like Bitwarden. The author concludes by expressing disappointment with Dashlane's decision to limit the number of passwords that can be stored in their free version and Microsoft's requirement to use their Authenticator app for 2FA. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a collection of product recommendations and reviews from the PC Pro podcast. It features a variety of tech products, including smartphones, extended reality glasses, fitness trackers, video camera systems, phone accessories, game kits, routers, speakers, AI tools, portable power stations, tracking devices, laptops, and portable speakers. The recommendations are made by different individuals on the podcast, each offering their own perspective and opinions on the products. The document includes brief descriptions of each product, its price, and the nominator's opinion on whether it is a good choice or not. [Extracted from the article]

The answer is most likely that Microsoft didn't want to: its goal was to ship a feature-rich operating system that was a genuine step up from Windows 10, rather than a minimised working environment. First, Microsoft takes care of all OS updates, security updates and apps, too. Windows 10 is much more sluggish than previous versions of the OS, so ditching Microsoft for a good, user-friendly software option - Ubuntu, Mint, ChromeOS Flex - breathes new life into old kit and keeps them out of landfill. Microsoft, by killing Windows 10 without an upgrade path for old hardware, is condemning millions of machines to a crusher. [Extracted from the article]

We need to talk about passwords. I know they're boring, they get in the way, and surely something is just around the corner that will cast them into the dim [...]

Running a small business isn't easy--I know, I have two of them. My main gig is writing about technology, but the food company that I run with my husband Andre [...]

Internet scammers are becoming increasingly sneaky. In the past, I grew used to regular phone calls claiming to be from Microsoft, or some equivalent organisation. They would tell me, in [...]

How much is too much? Obviously, I'm not referring to gin. Or a nice wine. Or even the smile of someone you have helped. No, I am referring to the [...]

The death of Her Majesty has been an object lesson in the internet's place in the transmission of news. We were watching the regular news broadcast when it quickly became [...]

I'm getting increasingly annoyed with spam email. I don't mean the old-school nonsense telling me that some noble person has decided to leave me $10,000,000, and they need my help [...]

This provides a frequency response spectrum analysis ofthe 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi spaces, and it's this that allows you to see the amount of Wi-Fi traffic across each band. Real World Computing Real world computing Expert advice from our panel of professionals JONHONEYBALL What sort of cats do you have? So UI has come up with a cunning solution: WiFiman Wizard (pcpro. link/35oman) is a MagSafe snap-on spectrum analyser that talks to the iPhone over Bluetooth. For example, the Android version doesn't appear to have the room-measurement tools (unlike the iOS app), but it does have a good visualisation of the various Wi-Fi access points, their signals strengths and other basic information for both the 2.4 and 5GHz bands. [Extracted from the article]

Nevertheless, Twitter is now known as X. One wag on Twitter/X said it should be called "Twix", no doubt causing a frisson of excitement for the trademark lawyers. This month, the J formerly known as Jon Honeyball dives deep into the making - and breaking - of a modern Wi-Fi network, from security to speed Henceforth I am to be known as J. And our esteemed magazine shall be P. It seems that one-letter names are the new hip nomenclature, and that the distillation down to a singular letter is the very definition of efficiency. "I want to use a service that's relevant and useful to me. 1 don't care if it's called Twitter, X or Banana" The username and password didn't work from a web browser pointed at the camera, either. [Extracted from the article]

MyFirst Vision Pro app Apple has Just released the new Xcode platform, which is its development tool set. I have no idea how long this browser add-in will continue to work, before Twitter finds ways around its filtering. That's down to a rather excellent browser plugin called Twitter Ad Blocker. But that doesn't matter: it's a working 3D space in which your app runs, and you can zoom around it, play with the controls, and start to get a feel of how your application will work. [Extracted from the article]

The single-app kiosk configuration doesn't require people to sign in to the device, although they can sign in to the kiosk app if you select an app that has a sign-in method." First, a single-app kiosk where an app is ideal for public use. REAL WORLD COMPUTING There is an age-old question in photography: "What's the best camera in the world?" Then there are multi-app kiosks, where you can choose from a customised start experience, allowing people to choose between several apps. [Extracted from the article]

It seems that every day we read about pollution around the world. Like the growing horror of microplastics: small chunks of plastic officially defined as being smaller than five millimetres [...]

As I crash into my 58th year on this planet, I am becoming more aware of the physical frailties of getting old. I am not getting old, of course. 60 [...]

The horrifying news from Ukraine fills our daily news cycles with stories that are hard to comprehend. War is a terrible thing, and that such a thing could happen in [...]

The process is the standard one for 2FA - the platform generates a QR code, you scan this with your authenticator app, and it sets up the necessary 2FA account settings within the app. To make this work, apps are submitted to Apple for review, and the app is run through a code-checking process. I looked up some research from the well-known site statista.com, which suggested that, in September 2022, the average price of an iOS gaming app in the Apple App Store was $0.49, while the average price of non-gaming apps was around $0.90. REAL WORLD COMPUTING Jon is the MD of an IT consultancy that specialises in testing and deploying kit @jonhoneyball Google's Authenticator app has had a somewhat rocky history. [Extracted from the article]