Pipes Feed Preview: gHacks Technology News

Google Is Testing an Android Feature That Predicts What You Do Next

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:10:12 -0000

Google is testing a new Android feature designed to anticipate what users want to do next and surface apps or actions automatically. The feature, called Contextual Suggestions, has been spotted in beta […]

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<a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/companies/google/" data-wpel-link="internal">Google</a> is testing a new <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/mobile-computing/google-android-mobiles/" data-wpel-link="internal">Android</a> feature designed to anticipate what users want to do next and surface apps or actions automatically. The feature, called Contextual Suggestions, has been spotted in beta and is tied to Google Play Services rather than a full Android version update. <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211260" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-6.png" alt="" width="1200" height="700" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-6.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-6-768x448.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> The discovery comes from Android Authority, which found references to Contextual Suggestions in Google Play Services version 25.49.32. The feature aims to proactively present relevant actions based on context, such as showing navigation and music controls when heading to a car, or surfacing playlists at the gym. Other examples include automatically suggesting media casting when a TV is detected, or bringing up apps tied to a routine without manual input. The system appears designed to reduce friction by predicting intent rather than waiting for explicit commands. According to settings strings uncovered in the beta, Contextual Suggestions are processed locally on the device. Google states that the data used is encrypted and automatically deleted after 60 days. Users can also manually clear the data at any time. The feature is optional. Android includes a toggle that allows Contextual Suggestions to be disabled completely, preventing the system from generating or acting on predictions. This aligns with Google's recent approach of shipping AI-driven automation as opt-out rather than mandatory. Despite local processing claims, the feature still represents a shift toward deeper behavioral inference on Android devices. Predictive systems rely on usage patterns, location signals, and activity context, which may concern users who prefer explicit control over automation. Contextual Suggestions are currently limited to beta builds and are not yet widely available. Google has not announced a rollout timeline or confirmed which Android versions will support the feature. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/23/google-is-testing-an-android-feature-that-predicts-what-you-do-next/" data-wpel-link="internal">Google Is Testing an Android Feature That Predicts What You Do Next</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
PC and Smartphone Prices Could Rise Up to 8% as Memory Shortages Deepen

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:02:05 -0000

PC and smartphone prices are likely to increase over the next year as shortages of consumer DRAM and NAND memory worsen. The supply imbalance is being driven by surging demand from AI […]

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PC and smartphone prices are likely to increase over the next year as shortages of consumer DRAM and NAND memory worsen. The supply imbalance is being driven by surging demand from AI data centers, which are consuming a growing share of high-bandwidth memory output. <img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-211258" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-3.png" alt="" width="669" height="390" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-3.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-3-768x448.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 669px) 100vw, 669px" /> Market research firm IDC warns that PC manufacturers are already preparing price increases of up to eight percent as memory costs rise. Even under current conditions, IDC expects the PC market to contract further next year, with shortages limiting supply and pushing prices higher across mainstream models. Major PC vendors, including Dell, Lenovo, HP, Asus, and Acer, have confirmed upcoming price adjustments tied directly to higher component costs. Analysts expect other OEMs to follow, meaning consumers are likely to see higher prices rather than isolated increases from a few brands. The timing is unfavorable for buyers. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/microsoft-companies/" data-wpel-link="internal">Microsoft's</a> push toward AI-capable PCs, combined with the end of mainstream <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/windows/" data-wpel-link="internal">Windows</a> 10 support in October, is already nudging users toward hardware upgrades. Rising memory prices add another cost pressure, particularly for systems with larger RAM configurations. Smartphones and tablets are also affected. IDC estimates that average smartphone prices could rise three to five percent under moderate conditions, and up to eight percent if shortages intensify. Manufacturers may attempt to offset costs by reducing base storage or memory rather than raising headline prices. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/companies/apple-companies/" data-wpel-link="internal">Apple</a> and Samsung are partially insulated in the short term, having secured memory supply contracts covering the next 18 to 24 months. Smaller manufacturers do not have the same buffer and are more exposed to spot-market pricing. IDC expects memory constraints to persist into 2027, which would end the long period of cheap RAM and SSD upgrades. If shortages continue, prices for standalone memory kits and consumer SSDs are also likely to remain elevated. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/23/pc-and-smartphone-prices-could-rise-up-to-8-as-memory-shortages-deepen/" data-wpel-link="internal">PC and Smartphone Prices Could Rise Up to 8% as Memory Shortages Deepen</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Gemini for Home Camera Update Filters Faces and Improves Pet Detection

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 13:55:52 -0000

Google has rolled out an update for Gemini for Home-enabled cameras that changes how people, pets, and motion events are recognized and summarized. The update focuses on filtering low-quality detections and improving […]

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<a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/companies/google/" data-wpel-link="internal">Google</a> has rolled out an update for Gemini for Home-enabled cameras that changes how people, pets, and motion events are recognized and summarized. The update focuses on filtering low-quality detections and improving how uncertain events are described, rather than adding new features. <img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-211256" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-2.png" alt="" width="875" height="510" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-2.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-2-768x448.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 875px) 100vw, 875px" /> Gemini for Home has been gradually replacing Google Assistant on supported smart home devices since late 2024. After wider availability earlier this month, Google says it has adjusted its camera models based on user feedback. The changes apply to Gemini for Home-enabled cameras from Nest and supported partners. According to Anish Kattukaran, the most notable change affects Familiar Face detection. Cameras now prioritize higher-quality images when identifying people, filtering out blurry or incomplete shots. This reduces the number of low-confidence matches that appear in activity history and notifications. Pet detection has also been tuned. Gemini for Home cameras can now better distinguish between cats and dogs, especially in low-light conditions. Google attributes this to improved color accuracy, which previously caused more misclassification at night. The update also adjusts how unknown or partially visible faces are handled. When the system cannot confidently identify someone, Home Briefs may now provide more descriptive summaries instead of generic alerts. Longer video events also receive expanded AI-generated captions to provide more context without reviewing full clips. Google has not announced changes to storage duration or privacy controls. Familiar Face recognition can still be disabled, and face data can be reviewed or removed manually. Misidentification remains possible, particularly in poor lighting or obstructed views. The update is rolling out now and should reach supported cameras automatically over the next few days. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/23/gemini-for-home-camera-update-filters-faces-and-improves-pet-detection/" data-wpel-link="internal">Gemini for Home Camera Update Filters Faces and Improves Pet Detection</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Call of Duty May Finally Reach Nintendo Switch After Two-Year Delay

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 13:50:28 -0000

Nintendo's Switch platform still does not have a mainline Call of Duty release, despite a public commitment made two years ago. A new claim from an industry insider suggests that may finally […]

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Nintendo's Switch platform still does not have a mainline Call of Duty release, despite a public commitment made two years ago. A new claim from an industry insider suggests that may finally change, but the report stops short of confirming when, how, or on which hardware the game would actually run. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-211253" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px.png" alt="" width="721" height="420" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-768x448.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 721px) 100vw, 721px" /> The situation traces back to a 2023 agreement between <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/02/22/did-microsoft-just-sign-a-deal-with-nintendo-for-call-of-duty-before-eu-activision-hearing/" data-wpel-link="internal">Nintendo</a> and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/microsoft-companies/" data-wpel-link="internal">Microsoft</a> that guaranteed Call of Duty access for Nintendo platforms. Since then, no Switch release has materialized. That gap has become more visible as the franchise continues its annual cadence on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, while Nintendo hardware remains excluded. A recent statement from Jez Corden has renewed attention on the deal. Corden said the first Switch Call of Duty title is "nearly done," though he also stressed that it is not close to release and framed 2026 as a more realistic window. No confirmation from Nintendo or Activision has followed, and no title name, platform scope, or performance targets were disclosed. The lack of detail matters more on Switch than on other platforms. Call of Duty releases are large, technically demanding games that rely on high storage capacity and consistent performance. The current Switch hardware has well-known limits in CPU, GPU, and internal storage, all of which complicate ports of modern shooters. The introduction of a more powerful Switch successor adds another layer of uncertainty, as developers may choose to target the newer hardware exclusively. Nintendo consoles are not entirely new to the franchise. Past entries such as Call of Duty: Ghosts appeared on the Wii U in 2013, but support ended there. Since the Switch launched in 2017, no Call of Duty title has shipped for Nintendo hardware, creating a 12-year gap between releases on the company's platforms. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211254" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-1.png" alt="" width="1200" height="700" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-1.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gHacks-articles-1200-x-700-px-1-768x448.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> What remains unclear is whether the reported work refers to a native version for the original Switch, a release designed for newer hardware, or a scaled port that compromises features or modes. File size alone is a practical obstacle. Recent Call of Duty releases routinely exceed 100 GB on other platforms, far beyond the internal storage of the original Switch without a large microSD card. Players should also expect trade-offs if a Switch version arrives. Visual fidelity, frame rate targets, and online feature parity are all open questions. Cross-play support, which is now standard for the franchise, would also require stable performance and network handling that the original Switch has struggled with in other demanding online titles. For Switch owners, the most realistic near-term action is to treat the report as informational rather than actionable. There is no preorder, announcement window, or system requirement published by Nintendo or Activision. Users concerned about compatibility may want to wait for confirmed details before assuming support for existing hardware. Those considering a future <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/05/15/nintendo-switch-2-tech-specs-officially-revealed/" data-wpel-link="internal">Nintendo console</a> should also be aware of exclusivity risk. If a Call of Duty release targets only newer hardware, existing Switch owners would be left out despite the original agreement. Nintendo has not clarified whether future third-party releases under the Microsoft deal are expected to support legacy systems. Until an official announcement appears, the situation remains unchanged in practical terms. The agreement exists, development may be underway, but no verified release plan has been made public. Nintendo and Activision have not commented on timelines, technical scope, or supported models. Are you a fan of Call of Duty? Excited to see it on Nintendo? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/23/call-of-duty-may-finally-reach-nintendo-switch-after-two-year-delay/" data-wpel-link="internal">Call of Duty May Finally Reach Nintendo Switch After Two-Year Delay</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
10 Practical Apple Watch Tweaks That Improve Daily Use

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:21:29 -0000

The Apple Watch ships with sensible defaults, but those defaults are designed to showcase features, not to minimize friction. A few targeted changes can significantly reduce distractions, speed up common actions, and […]

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The Apple Watch ships with sensible defaults, but those defaults are designed to showcase features, not to minimize friction. A few targeted changes can significantly reduce distractions, speed up common actions, and make the watch feel more intentional instead of noisy. None of the adjustments below require third-party apps. They focus on settings <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/companies/apple-companies/" data-wpel-link="internal">Apple</a> already provides but does not surface particularly well. <h3>1. Cut notification noise aggressively</h3> By default, the Apple Watch mirrors nearly every iPhone notification. That behavior turns the watch into a constant interruption engine. Open the Watch app on iPhone, go to Notifications, and disable mirroring for most apps. Keep only messaging, calls, and a small number of time-sensitive services. Marketing alerts and social updates rarely justify wrist taps. After that, enable Silent Mode from Control Center on the watch. Haptics remain active, but audio alerts stop entirely, which dramatically improves day-to-day usability. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://cdsassets.apple.com/live/7WUAS350/images/apple-watch/watchos-26-series-10-control-center-do-not-disturb-options.png" alt="Change the audio and notification settings on your Apple Watch - Apple Support" width="174" height="193" /> <h3>2. Use wrist gestures instead of touch</h3> Recent Apple Watch models support gesture controls that work without touching the display. Double Tap (index finger and thumb) triggers the primary on-screen action, such as answering a call or stopping a timer. Wrist Flick navigates back. Once enabled, these gestures reduce screen interaction during workouts, cooking, or commuting. They are faster than tapping and work reliably once muscle memory develops. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.apple.com/newsroom/images/2023/10/apple-watch-double-tap-gesture-now-available-with-watchos-10-1/tile/Apple-Watch-double-tap-gesture-lp.jpg.landing-big_2x.jpg" alt="Apple Watch double tap gesture now available with watchOS 10.1 - Apple" width="435" height="245" /> <h3>3. Unlock your Mac automatically</h3> The Apple Watch can authenticate macOS sessions without passwords. When enabled, wearing the watch is enough to unlock a nearby Mac. On macOS, open System Settings > Touch ID & Password, then enable Apple Watch unlocking. Authentication happens locally and does not require the same Wi-Fi network. This feature works consistently and removes one of the most repetitive friction points in daily desktop use. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://cdsassets.apple.com/live/7WUAS350/images/macos/ventura/macos-ventura-macbook-watchos-9-apple-watch-series-8-45mm-alum-unlock-mac-with-apple-watch-hero.png" alt="Unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch - Apple Support (MT)" width="474" height="287" /> <h3>4. Rely on widgets instead of cluttered faces</h3> Complication-heavy watch faces look efficient but age poorly in practice. Widgets provide the same access without permanently occupying the screen. Swipe up (or rotate the Digital Crown) to open the widget stack. Add commonly used items like Battery, Timers, Weather, and Workouts. Pin the few you check daily and let the system suggest the rest contextually. This approach keeps the watch face clean while preserving quick access. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://static0.howtogeekimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/live-activities-stopping-you-seeing-your-apple-watch-face-how-to-turn-it-off-1.png?w=1200&h=628&fit=crop" alt="Live Activities Stopping You Seeing Your Apple Watch Face? How to Turn It Off" width="493" height="258" /> <h3>5. Rotate between multiple watch faces</h3> Once widgets handle most interactions, watch faces become about context instead of density. Creating two or three faces-general use, fitness, and minimal-works better than trying to make one face do everything. Swipe left or right on the face to switch instantly. Face creation and customization are still easiest in the Watch app on iPhone, especially for Photos-based faces. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://9to5mac.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/apple-watch-watchos-10.2-face-gesture.jpg.webp?w=1600" alt="How to swipe between Apple Watch faces in watchOS 10 - 9to5Mac" width="639" height="320" /> <h3>6. Adjust Activity Rings when needed</h3> Activity Rings no longer require rigid adherence. watchOS now allows pausing or modifying goals without breaking streaks. Open the Fitness app on iPhone, select Activity Rings, then scroll down to Change Goals or Pause Rings. This is useful during illness, recovery, or travel, and prevents the rings from dictating behavior rather than reflecting it. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://static0.srcdn.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/apple-watch-activity-rings-hero.jpg" alt="Apple Watch Activity Rings: What They Are & How To Change" width="617" height="309" /> <h3>7. Control Apple TV from your wrist</h3> The Apple Watch includes a full Apple TV remote. It is easier to find than the physical remote and works immediately once paired. Open the Remote app on the watch, select your Apple TV, and control playback using taps and swipes. It supports navigation, volume, and Siri input. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/chorus/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24160553/DSCF0260_2.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&crop=0,0,100,100" alt="How to use your Apple Watch to control other devices | The Verge" width="515" height="343" /> <h3>8. Let alarms bypass Silent Mode</h3> Silent Mode usually silences alarms as well, which is not always desirable. Apple allows individual alarms to override this behavior. Edit an alarm in the Alarms app and enable Break Through Silent Mode. The alarm will sound even when the watch is muted, while all other alerts remain silent. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.idropnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/watchOS-11.4-break-through-silent-mode.jpg" alt="Your Alarms Will Soon Break Through Silent Mode on Your Apple Watch" width="415" height="249" /> <h3>9. Tie Focus modes to watch faces</h3> Focus modes can automatically switch watch faces. This is useful for separating work, personal time, and workouts visually. Configure this in Settings > Focus on iPhone. Assign a specific watch face to each Focus. When the Focus activates, the watch face changes with it, providing instant context. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://media.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Sync-a-Focus-across-your-devices.jpg" alt="How to use Focus on Apple Watch – iGeeksBlog" width="495" height="275" /> <h3>10. Track sleep consistently</h3> Apple Watch sleep tracking works best when paired with Sleep Focus. When active, the watch dims automatically and suppresses notifications. Recent watchOS versions add a sleep score and deeper metrics without requiring manual input. Charging during evening downtime instead of overnight keeps the watch ready for sleep tracking. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://sixcolors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/sleeping-watch-6c.png" alt="Sleeping with the Apple Watch – Six Colors" width="644" height="273" /> These adjustments do not change what the Apple Watch is capable of, but they significantly change how it feels to use. Most are one-time decisions that remove friction permanently. Which of these tweaks have you already applied, and which ones were still buried in settings for you? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/22/10-practical-apple-watch-tweaks-that-improve-daily-use/" data-wpel-link="internal">10 Practical Apple Watch Tweaks That Improve Daily Use</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Nano Banana in Google Messages is Becoming Less Intrusive

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:02:04 -0000

Google is quietly toning down the visual presence of Nano Banana inside Google Messages. In the latest beta, the AI image remix feature no longer pushes its bright banana branding front and […]

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<a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/companies/google/" data-wpel-link="internal">Google</a> is quietly toning down the visual presence of Nano Banana inside Google Messages. In the latest beta, the AI image remix feature no longer pushes its bright banana branding front and center, replacing it with a smaller, more restrained control that blends into the app's interface. The change does not remove Nano Banana or limit what it can do. Image remixing remains available in chats, previews, and the media picker. What changes is how aggressively the feature announces itself while users are simply trying to view or send images. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/photo_2025-12-22_11-00-24.jpg" alt="photo_2025-12-22_11-00-24" width="1159" height="627" /> <h3>A quieter look for image remixing</h3> In the current stable version of Google Messages, Nano Banana is hard to miss. The remix button appears prominently on image previews and in the full-screen viewer, complete with a bright yellow banana icon that draws immediate attention. The latest beta (version 20251212_00_RC01) changes that presentation. In chat threads, image previews now show a smaller remix button without the banana logo. The function is still obvious, but it no longer dominates the preview or competes visually with the image itself. This adjustment gives Nano Banana a more utility-focused feel, closer to a standard editing tool than a novelty feature. <h3>Changes inside the image viewer</h3> The full-screen image viewer sees a more noticeable shift. The old remix button, which previously sat alongside other controls, has been removed entirely from its former location. Instead, remixing now appears as a compact icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen, positioned next to the comment button. The new icon matches the simplified design used in chat previews and again drops the banana branding. The functionality remains the same, but users have to make a deliberate choice to engage with it rather than having it presented as a primary action every time an image is opened. <h3>Where users will notice it</h3> These UI changes are limited to Google Messages and only affect how Nano Banana is surfaced within the app. Other integrations, such as in Google Photos or the Gemini app, are not part of this update. Users who frequently receive images in chats are the most likely to notice the difference. Image previews look cleaner, and opening photos feels less cluttered, especially in long conversations where multiple images are exchanged. For users who actively use Nano Banana, the feature is still one tap away. For everyone else, it stays out of the way. <h3>Beta only, for now</h3> The updated UI is currently limited to the Google Messages beta channel and specifically to version 20251212_00_RC01. It is not live for users on the stable release. Google has not announced a rollout schedule, and there is no confirmation on when the changes will reach all users. As with other Messages UI tweaks, rollout may be gradual once it exits beta. Users on stable builds will continue to see the existing Nano Banana presentation until the update is promoted. <h3>Why this matters</h3> Google has been adding AI-powered features across its apps at a steady pace, and Nano Banana is one of the more visible examples. UI choices determine whether those features feel optional or unavoidable. By reducing the size and prominence of the remix controls, Google Messages treats Nano Banana more like a tool than a centerpiece. The feature remains available without constantly demanding attention. For a messaging app that prioritizes quick, low-friction communication, that restraint makes a practical difference, even though the underlying AI capabilities remain unchanged. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/22/nano-banana-in-google-messages-is-becoming-less-intrusive/" data-wpel-link="internal">Nano Banana in Google Messages is Becoming Less Intrusive</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Steam’s December Update Moves the Windows Client Fully to 64-bit

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:25:04 -0000

Valve has shipped a long-awaited change to the Steam client on Windows. As of the December update, Steam now runs as a fully 64-bit application on supported systems, ending years of partial […]

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Valve has shipped a long-awaited change to the Steam client on Windows. As of the December update, Steam now runs as a fully 64-bit application on supported systems, ending years of partial 32-bit support and aligning the client with modern Windows environments. The change applies to 64-bit installations of Windows 10 and Windows 11. Systems still running 32-bit Windows are not cut off immediately, but Valve has set a clear end date for support. <img decoding="async" src="https://overkill.wtf/content/images/size/w1200/2025/08/steam-new-desktop-ui.jpg?utm_source=chatgpt.com" alt="Steam gets big update with new user interface" /> <h3>What changed?</h3> The Windows version of the Steam client is now fully 64-bit. Previously, parts of the client remained 32-bit even on 64-bit systems, a legacy setup that limited how much memory the application could efficiently use and constrained future development. With this update, Steam matches the architecture already used on other platforms and removes a technical ceiling that has existed for years. <h3>Who is affected by the update?</h3> Most Steam users are on Windows, and the majority of those systems already run a 64-bit version of the operating system. For these users, no action is required. Steam updates automatically and continues to function as normal. Users still on 32-bit Windows should take note of Valve's timeline. Steam will continue to receive updates on 32-bit Windows only until January 1, 2026. After that date, the client will no longer be supported on those systems. Valve has not announced any extensions or exceptions to this cutoff. <h3>Why does it matter?</h3> The benefits of a 64-bit client are practical rather than dramatic. Steam is not suddenly faster across the board, and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/10/valve-makes-steam-store-pages-wider-improves-trailer-and-screenshot-carousel/" data-wpel-link="internal">Valve</a> has not claimed large performance gains. What changes is the foundation. A 64-bit application can access more system memory, handle larger workloads more reliably, and avoid certain stability issues that affect long-running processes. For a client that manages game downloads, overlays, chat, input devices, and background services, that headroom matters. More importantly, the shift removes limitations that complicate future updates. Features that would have been awkward or impossible under mixed 32-bit support can now be developed without legacy constraints. <h3>Other notable fixes in the December update</h3> The 64-bit transition is the headline change, but it is not the only one included in the update. Steam Friends and Chat now allow users to report suspicious or harassing messages directly from within chat windows. This closes a long-standing gap where moderation actions required navigating away from the conversation. Valve also addressed a set of issues affecting Big Picture Mode and Remote Play, improving reliability in scenarios that are sensitive to client crashes or memory limits. Controller support saw several additions and fixes. Steam Input now supports Nintendo Switch 2 controllers over USB on Windows, along with GameCube adapters operating in Wii U mode with rumble support. The update also resolves pairing and configuration problems affecting DualSense Edge, Xbox Elite, and Nintendo Joy-Con controllers. These changes are incremental, but they target areas where Steam functions as infrastructure rather than a simple storefront. <h3>What users should do now?</h3> For users on Windows 10 or Windows 11 with a 64-bit installation, there is nothing to configure. The update installs automatically and runs in the background. Users still on 32-bit Windows should treat the January 1, 2026 cutoff as a firm deadline. Continuing to use Steam beyond that point will require moving to a 64-bit version of Windows, as Valve has not indicated plans to maintain legacy builds. The December update does not change Steam's system requirements for games themselves, but it does signal a broader move away from older platforms. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/22/steams-december-update-moves-the-windows-client-fully-to-64-bit/" data-wpel-link="internal">Steam’s December Update Moves the Windows Client Fully to 64-bit</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Firefox adds AI, but Mozilla Promises a Full Off Switch

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:16:42 -0000

Mozilla has confirmed that Firefox is moving toward deeper AI integration, following a leadership change that puts artificial intelligence at the center of the browser's future. At the same time, the company […]

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Mozilla has confirmed that Firefox is moving toward deeper <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/14/mozilla-explains-its-ai-strategy-for-firefox-and-the-browsers-new-ai-window-feature/" data-wpel-link="internal">AI integration</a>, following a leadership change that puts artificial intelligence at the center of the browser's future. At the same time, the company says users will retain the ability to disable all AI features entirely, using what it internally calls an "AI kill switch." The announcement matters because Firefox has long positioned itself as a browser built around user choice and privacy. An AI-first direction challenges that reputation, especially for users who deliberately avoid browsers that bundle assistants, content analysis, or cloud-backed features by default. Mozilla's position is clear on one point: AI features will not be mandatory. Whether that commitment holds in practice depends on how the controls are implemented and whether the opt-out remains complete as Firefox evolves. <img decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Firefox-AI-Window-1920x1080-2-scaled.webp" alt="Firefox AI Window" /> <h3>Mozilla's leadership change sets the direction</h3> Earlier this month, Mozilla appointed Anthony Enzor-DeMeo as its new CEO amid continued financial pressure on the organization. Shortly after, Enzor-DeMeo outlined a strategy to turn Firefox into what he described as a modern AI browser, aligning it with broader industry trends. Firefox already experiments with optional AI-assisted features, including summarization tools and writing aids, but the new direction signals wider and more systematic integration. Mozilla frames this shift as part of a broader effort to remain competitive without abandoning its core principles. According to Enzor-DeMeo, Mozilla's goal is to become a "trusted software company," with trust defined by transparency and user control rather than feature restraint. That framing places the burden on Mozilla to prove that AI additions do not erode privacy by default. <h3>What the "AI kill switch" means in practice</h3> Mozilla has confirmed that Firefox will include a single setting that disables all AI-related features across the browser. Internally referred to as an AI kill switch, the option is intended to act as a global off toggle rather than a collection of per-feature controls. Firefox developers have stated publicly that this switch is meant to be absolute. When enabled, AI features should not run locally, connect to remote services, or activate hidden dependencies. The company has not finalized the name of the setting, but its scope is meant to be comprehensive. This approach differs from partial opt-outs. Users should not need to hunt through multiple menus to turn off assistants, suggestions, or background processing. The intent is one decision that applies everywhere. What remains unconfirmed is how deeply the switch operates at a technical level. Mozilla has not yet published documentation showing whether AI components are unloaded entirely or simply disabled at the interface layer. Those details will matter to users who audit network traffic or browser internals. <h3>Can users disable this completely?</h3> Mozilla says yes, but with caveats. Confirmed: <ul> <li>Firefox will ship with a global option to disable all AI features.</li> <li>The switch is designed to be user-facing and not hidden behind advanced configuration flags.</li> <li>AI functionality is opt-in, not forced by default.</li> </ul> Not yet confirmed: <ul> <li>The exact location of the setting in Firefox's preferences.</li> <li>Whether AI-related code paths remain present but inactive.</li> <li>Whether future AI features introduced later will always respect the same switch.</li> </ul> Until the feature ships, users cannot verify how complete the opt-out really is. Mozilla has not announced a release version or timeline for when the kill switch will be available in stable builds. <h3>How Firefox compares to Chrome and Edge</h3> Firefox's stance contrasts with approaches taken by competitors like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. Chrome integrates AI features tied closely to Google services, with no single control that disables all AI-backed behavior across the browser. Users can turn off specific features, but the process is fragmented and incomplete. Edge embeds AI through Copilot and related services, many of which are deeply integrated into the interface. Disabling them often requires a combination of settings changes, policy edits, or enterprise controls, and even then, some components remain active. Firefox's proposed model is simpler: one switch, one decision. For privacy-focused users, that difference is not cosmetic. It determines whether AI is an optional tool or a structural assumption. <h3>What users should expect next</h3> Mozilla has not detailed which new AI features are planned beyond what is already in testing. The company has also not said whether any future functionality will depend on AI components being enabled. Users should expect: <ul> <li>Gradual introduction of AI features rather than a single major release.</li> <li>Documentation explaining how to disable AI once the kill switch ships.</li> <li>Ongoing scrutiny from the Firefox community regarding enforcement of the opt-out.</li> </ul> Users who rely on Firefox specifically to avoid AI-driven behavior may want to monitor release notes closely. Once AI features arrive, confirming that the kill switch truly disables them will require hands-on verification. For now, Mozilla's commitment exists as a policy statement backed by developer comments, not by shipping code. <h3>What users can do now</h3> Users who want to prepare have a few practical options: <ul> <li>Stay on stable releases and avoid experimental builds where AI features may appear first.</li> <li>Review Firefox privacy and data collection settings regularly as new versions are released.</li> <li>Consider Firefox ESR if long-term stability and slower feature changes are a priority.</li> </ul> Switching browsers is not the only response. The real decision point will arrive when the AI controls land in stable Firefox and can be evaluated directly. Does a single, global AI off switch change how you evaluate Firefox's move toward AI? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/22/firefox-adds-ai-but-mozilla-promises-a-full-off-switch/" data-wpel-link="internal">Firefox adds AI, but Mozilla Promises a Full Off Switch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Former Rockstar Developer Says Another GTA 6 Delay Would Kill Momentum

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 08:59:45 -0000

A former developer from Rockstar Games has said that Grand Theft Auto VI is unlikely to face another delay, while also warning that pushing the release again would come with real consequences. […]

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A former developer from Rockstar Games has said that <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/05/07/rockstar-drops-a-new-trailer-for-gta-6-along-details-about-the-characters-map-and-more/" data-wpel-link="internal">Grand Theft Auto VI</a> is unlikely to face another delay, while also warning that pushing the release again would come with real consequences. The comments come as Grand Theft Auto VI remains scheduled for November 19, 2026, after already slipping multiple times since its initial reveal. The game is one of the most anticipated releases in recent years. Each official trailer has drawn tens of millions of views, and the title has repeatedly topped "most anticipated" lists across major award shows. That level of attention has persisted despite long gaps between updates and a development cycle that has stretched well beyond a decade since Grand Theft Auto V launched. Rockstar formally announced GTA 6 in December 2023. The first trailer broke YouTube records as the most-watched non-music video within its first 24 hours. Since then, the release window has moved several times. An initial Fall 2025 target slipped to May 2026, before Rockstar settled on the current November 2026 date. According to a former insider, that date is not expected to move again. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Jason_and_Lucia_Motel_landscape-scaled.jpg" alt="Jason_and_Lucia_Motel_landscape-scaled" width="1200" height="675" /> <h3>"Another Delay Would Make People Stop Caring"</h3> In an interview with Esports Insider, former Rockstar animator Mike York, who previously worked on Grand Theft Auto V, said the latest delay was likely used to add polish rather than rework core systems. He described the current November 2026 window as strategically important, placing the game squarely in the holiday season with little direct competition at its scale. York also delivered a blunt warning. According to him, further delays risk eroding long-term interest, even for a franchise as large as Grand Theft Auto. He said repeated pushbacks combined with long periods of silence can cause hype to "die down almost completely," adding that another slip could lead some fans to disengage entirely. That concern reflects a broader sentiment among parts of the community. Outside of trailers and official delay announcements, Rockstar has shared little concrete information. The studio has not released extended gameplay footage, detailed feature breakdowns, or a firm marketing roadmap. For a title with expectations this high, the absence of regular updates has become increasingly noticeable. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/photo_2025-12-21_09-46-16-scaled.jpg" alt="photo_2025-12-21_09-46-16-scaled" width="1200" height="675" /> <h3>Information Drought and Internal Tensions</h3> York also addressed frustration around the lack of communication. With no steady flow of official details, leaks have become the primary source of information for many fans. That situation has created tension for Rockstar, which has reportedly taken internal action against employees accused of leaking content related to unannounced projects. Rockstar has not publicly commented on those reports, nor has it clarified how much of the leaked material reflects the current state of development. As a result, there is no clear picture of what systems are finalized, what content may have been cut, or how close the game is to completion. What is clear is that Rockstar appears intent on avoiding a repeat of past launches that required heavy post-release fixes. The extra time may be intended to ensure stability across platforms at launch, particularly given the scale expected from the game's open world. <h3>Big Changes Are Expected in GTA 6</h3> Most details about gameplay changes remain unofficial, but leaks and industry chatter point to substantial updates to the series formula. GTA 6 is expected to return to Vice City, reimagined as a significantly denser and more reactive environment. Reports have suggested a large increase in enterable buildings and interior locations, alongside more dynamic NPC behavior. Underwater exploration is also rumored to play a larger role than in previous entries. If accurate, that would represent a notable expansion over earlier Grand Theft Auto titles, where underwater areas existed but were limited in purpose and depth. Rockstar has not confirmed any of these features, and there is no official feature list available. Until the studio releases additional trailers or gameplay showcases, all specifics beyond the setting and protagonists remain unverified. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/photo_2025-12-21_09-44-28-scaled.jpg" alt="photo_2025-12-21_09-44-28-scaled" width="1200" height="638" /> <h3>Subtle Teasers in GTA Online</h3> While official GTA 6 news has been sparse, Rockstar has continued to update GTA Online. Some players have begun scrutinizing those updates for potential hints. A recently added mission sparked speculation about a returning side character from GTA 5, while cosmetic items resembling clothing seen in GTA 6 trailers have also appeared. Rockstar has not acknowledged any connection between these updates and GTA 6. The studio has a long history of reusing assets and themes across projects, so the additions may not be intentional teasers. For now, players waiting for Grand Theft Auto VI have little to do beyond monitoring official Rockstar channels and ignoring unverified leaks. If Mike York's assessment is accurate, the current November 2026 release date is intended to hold, with Rockstar aware that further delays could permanently reduce interest even for one of the industry's largest franchises. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/21/former-rockstar-developer-says-another-gta-6-delay-would-kill-momentum/" data-wpel-link="internal">Former Rockstar Developer Says Another GTA 6 Delay Would Kill Momentum</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7523 adds Ask Copilot on the Taskbar, Agent launchers, and Narrator controls

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 09:26:06 -0000

Microsoft has released Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (KB5072043) to the Dev and Beta Channels, based on version 25H2. The update introduces several Copilot-related additions to the taskbar, expands accessibility controls […]

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Microsoft has released <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/windows/" data-wpel-link="internal">Windows</a> 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 (KB5072043) to the Dev and Beta Channels, based on version 25H2. The update introduces several Copilot-related additions to the taskbar, expands accessibility controls in Narrator, tweaks input and widgets, and delivers a long list of fixes. The same build is available in both channels for now, which also opens a temporary window for Dev Channel users to switch to Beta without reinstalling. The release follows <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/microsoft-companies/" data-wpel-link="internal">Microsoft's</a> current Insider strategy: features are split between those rolling out gradually to systems with the "get the latest updates as they are available" toggle enabled, and changes that apply to everyone in the Dev and Beta Channels. Most of the headline additions in this build fall into the gradual rollout category. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Ask-Copilot-on-taskbar-1-1024x576-1.png" alt="Ask-Copilot-on-taskbar-1-1024x576-1" width="714" height="402"> <h2>Ask Copilot arrives on the taskbar for commercial users</h2> The most visible change is the rollout of Ask Copilot on the taskbar for commercial customers with Microsoft 365 Copilot licenses. Consumer Insiders saw an earlier version of this feature in October; this build brings a variant tailored for work environments. Ask Copilot acts as a unified entry point to Microsoft 365 Copilot, Copilot agents, and search. From the taskbar, users can open Copilot with a single click, interact using voice or text, and reference contextual work information tied to their Microsoft 365 environment. Agents can be invoked directly by typing "@" or using the tools button, and search results for apps, files, and settings use the same Windows APIs as standard Windows Search. The feature is opt-in. It can be enabled under Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Ask Copilot. Microsoft notes that Ask Copilot does not grant Copilot additional access to personal files beyond what Windows Search already exposes. The rollout is limited at first to commercial Windows Insider Program customers in the United States and will expand gradually over the coming weeks. <h2>Agents gain taskbar presence and a new launcher framework</h2> Build 26220.7523 also expands how Copilot agents surface in Windows. Agent tasks, such as reports generated by the Researcher agent, can now appear directly on the taskbar. Progress indicators and hover states show real-time updates, and notifications are sent when tasks complete. Microsoft is still experimenting with how these tasks appear, either grouped with the Copilot icon or as separate entries. Under the hood, Microsoft is introducing Agent Launchers, a new framework that lets Windows apps register AI agents system-wide. Once registered, these agents become discoverable across supported experiences, including Ask Copilot on the taskbar and compatible apps. Agents open their own chat experiences when launched and can maintain context, ask clarifying questions, and take actions. Microsoft 365 Copilot already uses this framework to expose agents like Analyst and Researcher. Developers can register agents during installation or dynamically at runtime, depending on authentication or subscription state. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Slide-16_9-22-1_1200.png" alt="Slide-16_9-22-1_1200" width="1200" height="675"> <h2>Narrator gains granular speech customization</h2> Accessibility sees a notable update in this build. Narrator now allows users to control exactly what properties are spoken when navigating UI elements and in what order. Labels, roles, states, and values can be selected, reordered, or omitted per control type. Customization is available with Narrator key + Ctrl + P, where users can adjust announcements for buttons, checkboxes, sliders, and other controls. Changes apply across the current app. A preview option lets users hear how an announcement will sound before saving, and a reset option restores default behavior. On Copilot+ PCs, Narrator customization also supports natural language input. Users can type instructions such as disabling position or selection announcements instead of manually toggling options. <h2>Input, widgets, and language expansion</h2> Several smaller but practical changes ship with this build: <ul> <li> Voice typing with the touch keyboard drops its full-screen overlay. Dictation state animations now appear directly on the dictation key, reducing visual disruption. </li> <li> A new Discover Windows widget delivers short tips about Windows features, shortcuts, and security reminders. It can be added to the Widgets board or the lock screen and updates throughout the day. </li> <li> The Settings Agent expands language support to German, Portuguese, Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Hindi, Italian, and Simplified Chinese, in addition to existing English and French locales. </li> <li> The Arabic keyboard layouts gain AltGr support, including access to the Saudi Riyal currency symbol. </li> <li> Voice Access introduces a streamlined setup flow that simplifies model downloads, microphone selection, and feature discovery. </li> </ul> <h2>File Explorer updates and fixes</h2> File Explorer receives both visible changes and performance improvements. For consumer Microsoft account users, people icons now appear in the Activity column on File Explorer Home and in areas like Recommended and Recent. Hovering or clicking these icons opens a Windows People Card with context about recent file interactions and quick actions such as starting a chat or call. This brings a feature previously limited to work and school accounts to consumer cloud files. On the fix side, Microsoft addressed white flashes during navigation, reduced duplicate file indexing to improve search performance, improved search reliability across multiple drives, and resolved an issue blocking OneDrive files from opening in RemoteApp sessions. Voice Access navigation in the Gallery view has also been simplified. <h2>Taskbar behavior, known issues, and Paint update</h2> The build adjusts taskbar behavior when apps are set to uncombined, preventing large window groups from being pushed wholesale into the overflow area. Microsoft has temporarily paused a separate taskbar animation rollout while investigating reported issues. Known problems remain. Some Insiders report Start menu clicks not opening Start, system tray icons failing to appear, and autohide taskbars triggering too early and blocking app interaction. File Explorer context menu crashes and Bluetooth battery level display issues are also under investigation. Outside the OS itself, a Paint update is rolling out to Canary and Dev Channels. Version 11.2511.281.0 introduces a collapsible toolbar that can automatically hide and be recalled as needed. <h2>What to do if you're testing this build</h2> Insiders who want the newest features first need to enable the "get the latest updates as they are available" toggle in Windows Update. Dev Channel users should also decide soon whether to switch to the Beta Channel while both channels share the same 25H2 builds. Once the Dev Channel advances to a higher build number, that option will close. Features in this build are still subject to controlled rollouts and may change, be removed, or never ship beyond the Insider program. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/20/windows-11-insider-build-26220-7523-adds-ask-copilot-on-the-taskbar-agent-launchers-and-narrator-controls/" data-wpel-link="internal">Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7523 adds Ask Copilot on the Taskbar, Agent launchers, and Narrator controls</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Steam Winter Sale 2025 is Live with Steep Discounts on New and Alder PC Games

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:21:51 -0000

Valve has launched the Steam Winter Sale 2025, bringing broad discounts across its PC game catalog. The sale includes recent releases as well as older titles, with price cuts that range from […]

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Valve has launched the Steam Winter Sale 2025, bringing broad discounts across its PC game catalog. The sale includes recent releases as well as older titles, with price cuts that range from small reductions to deep discounts of 50 percent or more. The event affects all Steam users and runs for a little over two weeks. According to Valve, the sale is scheduled to end on January 5, giving players a limited window to purchase games at reduced prices. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/photo_2025-12-19_10-19-11-scaled.jpg" alt="photo_2025-12-19_10-19-11-scaled" width="1200" height="503" /> <h3>What's discounted in this sale</h3> This year's Winter Sale stands out for including a large number of games released in 2025. Several high-profile titles are already discounted despite only launching in recent months, which is not always the case during seasonal sales. Notable deals include: <ul> <li>Assassin's Creed Shadows at 50% off</li> <li>Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 at 50% off</li> <li>Avowed at 50% off</li> <li>EA Sports FC 26 at 60% off</li> <li>Cyberpunk 2077 at 65% off</li> </ul> Other games with smaller but still meaningful discounts include Hades 2, ARC Raiders, Silent Hill f, The Outer Worlds 2, and Battlefield 6. Indie titles are also well represented, with lower-priced games like PEAK and R.E.P.O. seeing additional cuts on top of their already modest base prices. <h3>Why this sale matters</h3> Seasonal Steam sales are common, but the Winter Sale typically offers the widest selection of discounted titles. This year's version includes more recent releases than usual, reducing the need to wait months for price drops on new games. For users who avoid buying games at launch prices, the Winter Sale provides an opportunity to pick up titles released earlier in the year at significantly lower cost. This is especially relevant for larger games that rarely receive discounts outside major sales events. The sale also applies to downloadable content and expansions, making it easier to complete collections or return to older games with new content at a lower total cost. <h3>How Steam sales work</h3> Steam uses a fixed-price model during major sales events. Prices do not change dynamically, and waiting until the final day does not unlock deeper discounts. Refund rules remain the same: games can be refunded if played for less than two hours and purchased within the last 14 days, even during a sale. Users with large wishlists may want to review notifications carefully, as Steam highlights discounts only for games already tracked. Discovery queues and category browsing can surface additional deals, but the storefront prioritizes popular and recently updated titles. <h3>What users can do now</h3> Users who plan to buy <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/misc/games/" data-wpel-link="internal">games</a> during the sale may want to: <ol> <li>Review their Steam wishlist first, as discounts are clearly flagged</li> <li>Check refund eligibility before buying large bundles</li> <li>Compare editions, since deluxe versions are often discounted alongside standard releases</li> <li>Avoid waiting for last-minute deals, as prices will not change before the sale ends</li> </ol> The Winter Sale does not introduce new store mechanics or limited-time flash sales. Once a price is set, it remains unchanged until the event concludes. Steam's Winter Sale runs until January 5, after which prices return to their regular levels. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/19/steam-winter-sale-2025-is-live-with-steep-discounts-on-new-and-older-pc-games/" data-wpel-link="internal">Steam Winter Sale 2025 is Live with Steep Discounts on New and Alder PC Games</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
This Anker Power Bank Can Charge Phones and Laptops and Still Fly Carry-On

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:05:29 -0000

Anker is selling a 25,000mAh power bank that targets users who need to charge multiple devices, including laptops, from a single battery. The model supports up to 100W output and recharge speeds, […]

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Anker is selling a 25,000mAh power bank that targets users who need to charge multiple devices, including laptops, from a single battery. The model supports up to 100W output and recharge speeds, which puts it in the range required for USB-C laptops, gaming handhelds, and fast-charging phones. The capacity sits just under common airline limits, which means it can be carried on flights without restrictions. Larger power banks often exceed those limits and are not allowed in carry-on luggage. The unit includes four charging options: two built-in USB-C cables, one additional USB-C port, and one USB-A port. This allows several devices to be charged at the same time without adapters or extra cables. A small integrated display shows charging status and power usage for connected devices. Recharge speed matches output at up to 100W, reducing downtime compared to lower-end power banks that take many hours to refill. This makes it more practical for daily use rather than emergency-only charging. Users who need more than 25,000mAh can find higher-capacity options, but those models typically lose airline compatibility. This model trades maximum capacity for portability, faster charging, and broader device support, which may be the more practical balance for travel and mixed-device setups. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/19/this-anker-power-bank-can-charge-phones-and-laptops-and-still-fly-carry-on/" data-wpel-link="internal">This Anker Power Bank Can Charge Phones and Laptops and Still Fly Carry-On</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Link to Windows Now Lets Android Phones Lock a Windows 11 PC

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:45:36 -0000

Microsoft has added a remote lock option to the Link to Windows app on Android, allowing users to lock a Windows 11 PC directly from their phone. The update also introduces recent […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Link to Windows Now Lets Android Phones Lock a Windows 11 PC appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

<a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/microsoft-companies/" data-wpel-link="internal">Microsoft</a> has added a remote lock option to the Link to Windows app on Android, allowing users to lock a Windows 11 PC directly from their phone. The update also introduces recent activity tracking and expands file sharing, but it still does not allow unlocking a PC remotely. The change affects users who rely on Link to Windows (paired with Phone Link on Windows 11) to manage basic PC interactions from an <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/mobile-computing/google-android-mobiles/" data-wpel-link="internal">Android device</a>. Once the updated app is installed and connected, a new Lock PC button becomes available, making it possible to secure a system without being physically in front of it. Remote locking is a one-way action. There is no option to unlock the PC from the phone, and Microsoft has not indicated that such functionality is planned. <h3>What changed in Link to Windows</h3> The update adds several user-facing features: <ul> <li>A Lock PC control that remotely locks a paired Windows 11 system</li> <li>A redesigned interface with clearer navigation</li> <li>A new Recent Activity section that lists file transfers, shared photos, and copied text</li> <li>Expanded file sharing that now works from PC to phone and from phone to PC</li> </ul> Earlier versions of Link to Windows supported sending files from a PC to an Android device, but not the reverse. That limitation is now removed. Windows Latest reports that the features appeared more broadly after installing an update released on December 8, which brings the app to version 1.25102.140.0. Some users had access earlier, starting around July, but the rollout was limited at the time. <h3>Who is affected</h3> The new features are available to Android users who: <ul> <li>Use Windows 11</li> <li>Have Phone Link enabled on the PC</li> <li>Use the Link to Windows app on Android</li> </ul> iOS users can still install Link to <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/windows/" data-wpel-link="internal">Windows</a>, but integration remains more limited. The remote lock feature and expanded file sharing are tied to the Android implementation. Some functionality continues to depend on device-specific support. Certain Samsung phones and PCs offer deeper integration, such as automatic hotspot connection through Windows 11's network flyout. The remote lock feature itself does not appear to be limited to specific manufacturers. <h3>Why the remote lock matters</h3> Remote locking adds a small but practical layer of control. It provides a fallback option if a PC was left unlocked in a shared or public environment, or if a user steps away without activating the lock manually. Windows already includes Dynamic Lock, which automatically locks a PC when a paired Bluetooth device moves out of range. That feature remains the more automated option, but it depends on Bluetooth behavior and proximity detection. The new Link to Windows control is manual and explicit, which may be preferable in situations where Dynamic Lock is unreliable or disabled. The lack of a remote unlock option is notable. Unlocking a Windows system requires authentication, and Microsoft appears to be keeping that boundary intact. Locking a system remotely does not expose credentials or bypass security prompts, while unlocking would raise significantly different security considerations. <h3>File sharing and activity tracking</h3> The new Recent Activity section consolidates recent interactions between phone and PC. It shows: <ul> <li>Files transferred in either direction</li> <li>Shared photos</li> <li>Text copied between devices</li> </ul> This view acts as a lightweight history rather than a full log. Microsoft has not documented how long items remain visible or whether the list can be cleared manually. File sharing from phone to PC now mirrors the existing PC-to-phone workflow. Users can send files without relying on third-party services or cloud uploads, provided both devices are connected through Phone Link. <h3>What users can do now</h3> Users who want to use the new features should check that both sides of the connection are updated. To enable remote PC locking from Android: <ol> <li>Update the Link to Windows app from Google Play</li> <li>Ensure Phone Link is installed and up to date on the Windows 11 PC</li> <li>Pair the phone and PC if not already connected</li> <li>Open Link to Windows on Android and look for the Lock PC option</li> </ol> If the button does not appear, the update may not have reached the device yet, or the connection may need to be re-established. Users who frequently step away from their PC may also want to review Windows 11's Dynamic Lock setting as a complementary option, since the two features address similar use cases in different ways. <h3>Caveats and unknowns</h3> Microsoft has not published a public changelog for the most recent Link to Windows update, so the exact rollout timing of each feature is unclear. Some functionality may have been enabled server-side before December 8. There is no indication that remote unlocking will be added. The current design limits Link to Windows to locking actions only, and Microsoft has not commented on expanding that capability. The Recent Activity section provides visibility into recent interactions, but there is no documented way to manage or disable that history independently. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/19/link-to-windows-now-lets-android-phones-lock-a-windows-11-pc/" data-wpel-link="internal">Link to Windows Now Lets Android Phones Lock a Windows 11 PC</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Sparkle review: make Windows leaner and less bloated with this new tweaker

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:59:08 -0000

Windows users have plenty of options already when it comes to tweaking or debloating Windows. From WinAero Tweaker and O&O ShutUp10 to specialized apps such as O&O AppBuster or WinScript. All of […]

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Windows users have plenty of options already when it comes to tweaking or debloating Windows. From <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2015/03/09/winaero-tweaker-brings-most-winaero-tools-under-one-hood/" data-wpel-link="internal">WinAero Tweaker</a> and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/03/27/first-oo-shutup10-update-of-2023-released/" data-wpel-link="internal">O&O ShutUp10</a> to specialized apps such as <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2022/08/25/uninstall-windows-apps-for-all-users-in-bulk-with-oo-appbuster/" data-wpel-link="internal">O&O AppBuster</a> or <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/02/05/winscript-open-source-tool-to-configure-and-debloat-windows/" data-wpel-link="internal">WinScript</a>. All of these are great tools, but there is always room for another one, right? <a href="https://github.com/Parcoil/Sparkle" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">Sparkle</a> is a new app for Windows 10 and 11 that combines tweaks with a cleaner and several other tools. It is open source, which is always welcome, and available as a free download. Some may not like that it uses Electron, as it is the main reason why the app has a hefty size of 150 megabytes. You can run the app right after installation. It loads its interface and displays the dashboard, which highlights mostly hardware specs. You do get the list of applied tweaks on the page as well, and a link to tweaks, but that is about it. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211046" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-scaled.png" alt="Sparkle" width="1200" height="660" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-scaled.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-768x422.png 768w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-1536x845.png 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> Tweaks is one of the core components of Sparkle. It includes 36 in total currently, from single changes, such as disabling Copilot or disabling location tracking, to running debloat scripts. Two of these are supported right now. A click on the docs button opens a wiki page that explains how these differ. In this case, selecting Sparkle's own is an app uninstaller that will remove apps that you do not check. The second script. Raphire's Winn11Debloat script, is far-reaching and will remove bloatware and improve privacy. You may encounter one of the main issues in Sparkle at the time of writing on the tweaks page. The title and description that Sparkle presents may not be enough in some cases to make an educated decision. It is necessary to click on the docs button, which opens a website in the default browser. There, you get more details, but may need to click again to fully understand the changes a tweak makes. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211047" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-tweaks-scaled.png" alt="Tweaks Sparkle app" width="1200" height="660" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-tweaks-scaled.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-tweaks-768x422.png 768w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sparkle-tweaks-1536x845.png 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> It would be better, if Sparkle would provide core information in its interface, for instance via a tooltip. However, the majority of tweaks come with a simple toggle to enable or disable them. Cleaner is another section. It is rather basic, as it cleans temporary files, prefetch files, the recycle bin, Windows Update cache or thumbnail cache only. While these are locations that can make a difference by freeing up plenty of space, the section could be expanded to come closer to the functionality of CCleaner or Bleachbit. Here is an overview of the remaining sections: <ol> <li>Restore Points displays a useful overview of all created restore points on the system. You can create a new one or delete the snapshots here.</li> <li>Utilities serves as a hub for launching commands or tools. You can use them to reset the IP stack or Winsock, open the Device Manager, and more.</li> <li>DNS Manager displays the current DNS provider and options to set a provider. Sparkle includes six providers, which you may enable with two clicks.</li> <li>Apps displays the list of installed apps. You can uninstall apps from here, export a list, or bulk uninstall apps.</li> </ol> <h3>Closing Words</h3> Sparkle is a beta program and it shows in some sections. The program was reliable during tests and it felt like using a stable software, but more testing is needed to come to a final conclusion. If the developer managers to add more features to some of the sections and improve usability, it could become a popular tweaking choice for Windows users, Electron or not. Now You: do you use tweaking tools? If so, which is your favorite and why? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/18/sparkle-review-make-windows-leaner-and-less-bloated-with-this-new-tweaker/" data-wpel-link="internal">Sparkle review: make Windows leaner and less bloated with this new tweaker</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Galaxy S25 Drops to $350 With a One-Year Mint Mobile Plan

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:27:07 -0000

The Galaxy S25 is available for $350 when purchased with a one-year Mint Mobile plan. The price applies to the standard Galaxy S25, not the Ultra, and requires prepaying 12 months of […]

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<a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/01/23/samsung-unveils-galaxy-s25-series-with-advanced-ai-and-top-tier-specs/" data-wpel-link="internal">The Galaxy S25</a> is available for $350 when purchased with a one-year Mint Mobile plan. The price applies to the standard Galaxy S25, not the Ultra, and requires prepaying 12 months of service. The phone usually sells unlocked for around $650. The promotion cuts the upfront hardware cost nearly in half, with the service commitment covering the rest of the value. The required Mint Mobile plan costs $180 for the year, which breaks down to $15 per month. Combined with the phone, the total comes to $530. <h2>What the Mint Mobile plan includes</h2> The plan included with the Galaxy S25 promotion provides unlimited talk, text, and data. Mint Mobile uses T-Mobile's network, which offers broad coverage and solid speeds in most urban and suburban areas. International calling to Canada, Mexico, and the UK is included at no extra charge. There is no multi-year lock-in beyond the single prepaid year, and the phone is not permanently tied to the carrier once the term ends. Users who are already comfortable with prepaid service or who plan to stay on Mint for a year avoid the usual downside of carrier deals: bill credits spread over multiple years. <h2>Why the Galaxy S25 makes more sense than the Ultra</h2> Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra continues to draw attention, but the gap between the Ultra and the regular Galaxy S25 has narrowed. Performance, display quality, and software features are largely shared across the lineup. The Ultra still carries camera advantages on paper, but Samsung's recent Ultra models have delivered fewer practical gains than in previous generations. Outside of zoom-heavy photography or S Pen usage, daily use looks very similar between the two devices. The Galaxy S25 delivers the same core experience: a fast processor, a high-quality display, and Samsung's current software stack. The main difference is price, and at $350, the standard model lands in a very different value category. <h2>Software support changes the long-term math</h2> Samsung now commits to seven years of Android and security updates for the Galaxy S25 series. That policy significantly extends the usable lifespan of the device compared to older Galaxy models and many competing Android phones. Long-term update support reduces the risk of buying a phone tied to a carrier deal. Even after the Mint Mobile term ends, the device remains supported for years, whether used unlocked or resold. For users who keep phones for extended periods, the update policy matters more than incremental hardware differences. <h2>What users should consider before buying</h2> The promotion requires paying for the full year of service upfront. Users planning to switch carriers within a few months will not recover that cost. Coverage quality depends on T-Mobile's network in the user's area. Checking local coverage before committing avoids surprises. The unlocked Galaxy S25 remains available at a higher price for users who want immediate carrier flexibility without a prepaid commitment. The deal works best for users who want a current-generation Android phone, are comfortable with prepaid service, and value long-term software support over Ultra-specific hardware features. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/18/galaxy-s25-drops-to-350-with-a-one-year-mint-mobile-plan/" data-wpel-link="internal">Galaxy S25 Drops to $350 With a One-Year Mint Mobile Plan</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Borderlands 4 Shift Code Gives 3 Golden Keys and Expires December 23

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:08:52 -0000

Gearbox has released a new shift code for Borderlands 4 that grants three Golden Keys, but it can only be redeemed until December 23. Players who use Golden Chests for gear upgrades […]

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Gearbox has released a new shift code for <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/02/13/borderlands-4-set-for-september-23-release-with-new-gameplay-features/" data-wpel-link="internal">Borderlands 4</a> that grants three Golden Keys, but it can only be redeemed until December 23. Players who use Golden Chests for gear upgrades should redeem it as soon as possible, as expired codes cannot be claimed later. The active shift code is: JHXTB-RFWH3-C6335-TBBJB-JWWBH Redeeming the code adds three Golden Keys directly to the selected platform. The keys themselves do not expire, even after the redemption window closes, which makes it useful to claim them now and save them for a later playthrough. Golden Keys are one of the most reliable ways to obtain high-quality loot in Borderlands 4. They are spent at Golden Chests and frequently drop rare and Legendary items, making them especially useful when leveling a new Vault Hunter or gearing up after a break from the game. <h2>How to redeem the Borderlands 4 shift code</h2> Redeeming the code only takes a minute if your account is already linked. <ol> <li> Open the SHiFT website and sign in to your SHiFT account. </li> <li> Open the Gaming Platforms section and confirm your platform account is linked. </li> <li> Go to the Rewards section. </li> <li> Enter the code JHXTB-RFWH3-C6335-TBBJB-JWWBH under Code Redemption. </li> <li> Select the platform you want the keys delivered to. </li> </ol> Once redeemed, the Golden Keys will appear in-game the next time you log in. <h2>Other active Borderlands 4 SHiFT codes</h2> In addition to the three-key code, several other SHiFT codes are currently active and can still be redeemed: <ul> <li> T9RJB-BFKRR-3RBTW-B33TB-KCZB9 - 1 Golden Key </li> <li> JS63J-JSCWJ-CFTBW-3TJ3J-WJS5R - Break Free Pack </li> <li> JZ6BJ-SBR5J-WF3BK-BT3BB-TX9HB - Amon's Cult Classic Skin </li> <li> TZXT3-XJXCB-CXBJW-BTTJT-9SK6B - Rafa's Savings Savior Skin </li> <li> J96JT-BCXKT-C6JJ5-JTJBB-BZTXJ - Harlowe's Maliwannabee Skin </li> <li> BZ6JJ-CB6CT-WXJJW-3TT3B-56FZ5 - Vex's Mass Market Appeal Skin </li> <li> 3S6BB-ZXT93-KRT3W-BT3T3-JW6TZ - Gourd Your Loins Head and Hex Appeal Skin </li> </ul> Codes can be redeemed even if you are not actively playing. Many players collect SHiFT rewards over time and use the accumulated keys during future playthroughs. The three-key code expires on December 23, after which it can no longer be redeemed, even though previously claimed keys remain valid indefinitely. Resources: <a href="https://gamerant.com/borderlands-4-shift-code-golden-keys-december-23/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">https://gamerant.com/borderlands-4-shift-code-golden-keys-december-23/</a> Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/18/borderlands-4-shift-code-gives-3-golden-keys-and-expires-december-23/" data-wpel-link="internal">Borderlands 4 Shift Code Gives 3 Golden Keys and Expires December 23</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
X Launches Standalone Chat App for Accessing Direct Messages

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 11:00:29 -0000

X has split its direct messaging feature into a standalone chat site that works independently from the main social media feed. The new app focuses solely on private messages and removes timelines, […]

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X has split its direct messaging feature into a standalone chat site that works independently from the main social media feed. The new app focuses solely on private messages and removes timelines, posts, and other platform features from view. It is designed for users who rely on X primarily for messaging rather than public posting. The standalone chat site exposes the same direct messages already available on X, but in an isolated interface. Conversations, message history, and existing contacts carry over automatically once the user signs in. No migration or separate account is required. The change shifts X closer to competing directly with dedicated messaging services, at least on the web. Instead of treating messaging as a secondary feature attached to social content, X is now offering it as a primary use case. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/X-Chat-scaled.jpg" alt="X-Chat-scaled" width="1200" height="720"> <h2>Who the new chat site is for</h2> The standalone chat experience is most relevant for users who use X as a messaging platform rather than a social network. This includes users who rely on direct messages for coordination, private conversations, or subscriber communication and want to avoid exposure to the main feed. The site is currently designed for desktop browsers. The interface scales well on larger screens and resembles a stripped-down messaging client rather than a social website. X has not confirmed release details for a mobile version, but the current offering clearly targets desktop users. Users who primarily access X through mobile apps will see little immediate benefit, as the chat site does not replace the existing in-app messaging experience. <h2>What the standalone chat includes</h2> Functionally, X Chat is the direct messaging component of X presented on its own domain. The interface focuses on conversation lists, individual message threads, and message composition. Feature scope is limited. There are no additional tools beyond what already exists in X's messaging system. There is no separate contacts system, advanced chat organization, or automation support. The goal appears to be separation, not expansion. The most notable controls are privacy and filtering options that determine who can send messages. Users can configure message permissions to allow messages from: <ul> <li> No one </li> <li> Verified users only </li> <li> Everyone </li> </ul> There is also a separate option that allows subscribers to send messages. This subscriber setting can override the general message request rules, giving creators more granular control over paid interactions. Spam and low-quality messages remain a concern on X, and the standalone chat includes a "Filter low-quality messages" toggle. When enabled, messages identified as low quality are filtered before reaching the main inbox. The filtering logic is the same as on the main platform. Beyond messaging and privacy controls, customization options are minimal. Users can choose an accent color that affects interface elements such as highlights, selections, and URL emphasis. No layout or behavior customization is available. <h2>How to access X Chat</h2> The standalone chat site is accessible through the web and does not require a separate installation. When visiting the site for the first time, users are prompted to set a passcode. X states that this passcode is used for encryption purposes and is required before accessing messages. Once the passcode is set, existing conversations become available immediately. There is no indication that the chat site supports multiple profiles or sessions in parallel. Users who manage more than one X account will need to sign out and back in when switching. <h2>What users can do now</h2> Users who want to separate messaging from the main X experience can start using the chat site immediately. To use the standalone chat site: <ol> <li> Visit the X Chat website while signed into your X account. </li> <li> Set a passcode when prompted to enable encrypted access. </li> <li> Review message permissions and filtering settings. </li> <li> Start or continue conversations without accessing the main X feed. </li> </ol> Users who rely on strict message controls should review their settings carefully, especially the interaction between general message permissions and subscriber overrides. The standalone chat does not disable or replace direct messages on the main X site. Both interfaces remain active and synchronized. <h2>Limitations and open questions</h2> The standalone chat site does not introduce new messaging features or improvements over the existing system. It also does not address long-standing concerns around spam beyond the existing filter toggle. There is no confirmation on whether end-to-end encryption applies uniformly across all message types or whether the passcode setup changes how messages are stored or synced across devices. X has not published detailed technical documentation on this point. Mobile support has not been formally announced. Until a mobile version exists, users who prefer messaging on phones will still need to rely on the main X apps. The standalone chat currently serves as an interface change rather than a functional expansion, and its usefulness depends entirely on how much value users place on separating messaging from the rest of the platform. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/18/x-launches-standalone-chat-app-for-accessing-direct-messages/" data-wpel-link="internal">X Launches Standalone Chat App for Accessing Direct Messages</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
iPhone Photos App Turns Some Android Photos Red When Zooming in

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:00:59 -0000

The Photos app on iOS 26 iPhones is showing a rendering bug that causes some images to turn red when users zoom in. The issue affects photos that were taken on Android […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post iPhone Photos App Turns Some Android Photos Red When Zooming in appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

The Photos app on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/09/16/apple-releases-ios-26-and-here-are-its-best-features/" data-wpel-link="internal">iOS 26</a> iPhones is showing a rendering bug that causes some images to turn red when users zoom in. The issue affects photos that were taken on Android devices and later viewed on an iPhone. Images captured directly on the iPhone are not affected. Affected photos look normal at first. The problem happens only after interacting with the image. As soon as a user pinches to zoom, the photo shifts into a deep red tint that covers most or all of the image. <blockquote class="reddit-embed-bq" style="height: 500px;" data-embed-height="739"><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1optavh/ios_26_bug_photo_turns_red_when_zoomed_in/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">iOS 26 bug - photo turns red when zoomed in</a> by<a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/Jonkmclovin/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">u/Jonkmclovin</a> in<a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/ios/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">ios</a></blockquote> <script src="https://embed.reddit.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="UTF-8"></script> I was able to reproduce the issue on my own <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/08/31/iphone-15-colors-and-design-revealed-via-dummy-models/" data-wpel-link="internal">iPhone</a> using photos imported from an Android device. The images showed correctly in the grid view, but turned red the moment I zoomed in. Exiting and reopening the photo didn't prevent it. The issue has been reported with photos from different <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/category/mobile-computing/google-android-mobiles/?utf8=bqqwtq886694.doc" data-wpel-link="internal">Android</a> brands. Examples shared by users include images originally taken on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/01/23/samsung-unveils-galaxy-s25-series-with-advanced-ai-and-top-tier-specs/" data-wpel-link="internal">Samsung Galaxy</a> and Motorola devices. The Android manufacturer does not appear to be the trigger. The common factor is viewing those photos inside Apple's Photos app and zooming in. There is no indication that the image files themselves are corrupted. When viewed outside the Photos app, or after applying a simple workaround, the photos display with their original colors intact. This points to a processing or rendering issue inside the iOS Photos app rather than damage to the underlying image data. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/01/apple-is-working-on-more-satellite-powered-features-for-iphones/" data-wpel-link="internal">Apple</a> has not acknowledged the issue publicly. Reports associate the behavior with iOS 26, but there is no confirmation that it is limited to that version. Photos imported from Android devices should be treated like any other locally stored image on iOS, yet something changes when the app switches from the initial preview to the zoomed-in view. That transition appears to trigger the red overlay. Not every Android photo is affected. Some users report that photos from newer Pixel devices display normally even when zoomed. Others see the red tint consistently with images from specific phones or time periods. No reliable pattern has emerged so far. Differences in image metadata, color profiles, or how Android devices encode certain photos are possible factors, but Apple has not provided technical details. This does not appear to be tied to how the photos were transferred. Users have reported the same behavior with images synced through cloud services, transferred via cable, or shared through messaging apps. Once the photo is in the iOS Photos library, the problem either occurs or it does not. <h3>Here's how to remove the red tint from affected photos.</h3> The color shift is reversible. Users can restore the correct colors directly in the Photos app using the built-in edit controls. This does not permanently modify or degrade the image. Open the affected photo in the <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/03/18/how-to-add-stickers-to-photos-on-iphone/" data-wpel-link="internal">Photos app</a>. Tap Edit in the top-right corner. Tap Revert. Reverting the photo removes the red overlay and restores the original appearance. The file itself is not damaged, and no image data is lost by doing this. The process essentially forces the Photos app to reload the image without applying the faulty rendering state. This workaround must be applied to each affected image individually. There is no batch option, and reverting one photo does not prevent the issue from happening again with other images. If additional Android photos are imported later, they may show the same behavior until Apple fixes the underlying problem. Users should also be aware that entering Edit mode and reverting clears any prior edits made to that photo in the Photos app. If adjustments were applied previously, those changes will be removed when the image is reverted. In that case, exporting a copy of the photo before reverting may be the safer option. At the moment, there is no setting in iOS to disable the behavior globally, and no confirmed fix beyond manually reverting affected images. Apple has not stated whether the issue is being solved or when a fix might arrive. Sources: Lifehacker - <a href="https://lifehacker.com/tech/how-to-fix-photos-turning-red-on-your-iphone#:~:text=To%20return%20your%20image%20to,overlayed%20on%20top%20of%20it.&text=Senior%20Technology%20Editor-,Covering%20tech%20news%2C%20how%2Dto,guides%2C%20explainers%2C%20and%20more." data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">If Some Photos Are Inexplicably Turning Red on Your iPhone, There's a Fix</a> Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/17/iphone-photos-app-turns-some-android-photos-red-when-zooming-in/" data-wpel-link="internal">iPhone Photos App Turns Some Android Photos Red When Zooming in</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Sony Adds Nine Games to PS Plus Extra and Premium, Removes 12

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:53:18 -0000

Sony has updated the PlayStation Plus catalog for December, adding nine games to the Extra and Premium tiers while removing 12 others. The changes are already live in the UK and Europe […]

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Sony has updated <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2022/05/13/all-you-need-to-know-about-playstation-plus-subscription-changes/" data-wpel-link="internal">the PlayStation Plus</a> catalog for December, adding nine games to the Extra and Premium tiers while removing 12 others. The changes are already live in the UK and Europe and are rolling out to US regions later today. The update affects only PS Plus Extra and Premium subscribers. Essential-tier users are not included beyond context. Headlining the new additions are Assassin's Creed Mirage and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, both available on PS4 and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/01/sony-has-launched-a-new-ps5-slim-with-less-storage-but-it-costs-the-same-as-the-old-ps5-slim/" data-wpel-link="internal">PS5</a>. Premium subscribers also receive Soulcalibur 3 as part of the PS2 classics catalog. As usual, all Extra-tier games are also playable by Premium users. New games added to PS Plus Extra & Premium <ul> <li>Assassin's Creed Mirage (PS4, PS5)</li> <li>Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty (PS4, PS5)</li> <li>Planet Coaster 2 (PS5)</li> <li>Cat Quest 3 (PS4, PS5)</li> <li>LEGO Horizon Adventures (PS5)</li> <li>PAW Patrol: Grand Prix (PS4, PS5)</li> <li>PAW Patrol World (PS4, PS5)</li> </ul> PS Plus Premium only <ul> <li>Soulcalibur 3 (PS2 classic)</li> </ul> At the same time, Sony removed 12 games from the catalog on December 16. Confirmed removals include Battlefield 2042, Sonic Frontiers, and Grand Theft Auto 3 - The Definitive Edition. Once removed, these titles can no longer be played through PlayStation Plus unless purchased separately. Subscribers who were still playing removed games lose access immediately. Save data remains intact, but the games themselves are locked. Availability can vary by region, and none of the added games are permanent. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/09/11/playstation-launches-an-app-for-parental-controls-and-family-management/" data-wpel-link="internal">Sony</a> has not announced how long the new titles will remain in the catalog. Are you using PS Plus Extra or Premium, and do this month's additions change what you play? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/17/sony-adds-nine-games-to-ps-plus-extra-and-premium-removes-12/" data-wpel-link="internal">Sony Adds Nine Games to PS Plus Extra and Premium, Removes 12</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
How to create a bootable Windows 11 installation for testing

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 09:51:57 -0000

Windows, just like most Linux distributions, offers an option to create a bootable Windows installation on USB drives. This has several benefits, including testing Windows 11 without touching the underlying system or […]

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Windows, just like most Linux distributions, offers an option to create a bootable Windows installation on USB drives. This has several benefits, including testing Windows 11 without touching the underlying system or accessing files and apps on the go. Good news is that the entire process is free. You do need a USB drive or stick with a capacity of at least 16 gigabytes, preferably more, but that is the only requirement that costs money. Other than that, you will be using the free, <a href="https://rufus.ie/en/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">open source tool Rufus</a> to create the portable installation of Windows 11 and the download is free from Microsoft (you may need a license though at one point). <h2>Preparations are key</h2> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211040" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/rufus-create-bootable-usb-windows-11.jpg" alt="Create bootable Windows 11 installation USB" width="570" height="848" /> The very first thing you need to do is download the latest ISO of Windows 11. Microsoft has a download website that offers the download. Just <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">hit this link</a>, scroll down on the page that opens to the "Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices" section, and activate the confirm button to get started. Microsoft will do some testing and verifying, after which you are asked to select a product language before the verification step ends. Click on the download button afterwards and select a save location for the ISO image of Windows 11 on your PC. Download Rufus next. It is a small download and should not take longer than a second or two. Run Rufus right after the download. This displays the main interface of Rufus. Here you need to make the following changes: <ol> <li>Click on the Select-button near the top and use the file browser that opens to pick the downloaded Windows 11 ISO image.</li> <li>Select "Windows To Go" under "Image option".</li> <li>Activate the Start-button to start the process.</li> <li>When asked, select the Windows edition that you want to install. When in doubt, either pick Windows 11 Home or Pro.</li> <li>Make sure that "Prevent Windows To Go from accessing internal disks" is checked. This ensures that the bootable Windows installation won't interfere with operating systems on internal disks.</li> <li>Check "Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account", if you want to use a local account from the get-go.</li> <li>Check "Create a local account with username" and type the username you want to use, to create this account automatically.</li> <li>Click OK to continue.</li> <li>Confirm the warning that all data will be destroyed on the USB drive.</li> </ol> Rufus will write the Windows 11 files on the USB device, which may take some time to complete. You may then boot from into Windows using the USB device. <h2>Booting</h2> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211039" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/windows-recovery-advanced-startup-scaled.png" alt="Advanced Startup to get into BIOS / UEFI" width="1200" height="701" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/windows-recovery-advanced-startup-scaled.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/windows-recovery-advanced-startup-768x449.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> Now that the USB drive with Windows 11 on it is ready, all that is left is to boot from it. You may need to adjust the boot sequence of the PC in the BIOS. Make sure that USB has a higher priority than the actual operating system, that is probably on one of the internal hard drives. If you do not know how to get into BIOS or UEFI, monitor the first screens that appear when you start the PC. You might catch a glimpse of the key that you need to press to access it. You could also try pressing the usual keys, such as F1 for that. Another option that you have is to enable Advanced Startup, if you run Windows on the PC. In Windows 10, you'd open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. From there, activate the Restart now button under "Advanced startup". When Windows boots into the recovery environment, select "Use a device" and activate the USB option there. Windows should then boot from the inserted USB device. Next time you want to boot into the regular systems, simply unplug the USB device and everything should be back to normal. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/16/how-to-create-a-bootable-windows-11-installation-for-testing/" data-wpel-link="internal">How to create a bootable Windows 11 installation for testing</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
FolderFresh: organize Windows files for free with rules and automation

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:00:57 -0000

Most operating systems do not provide advanced tools to organize files properly. Windows, for example, includes a few special folders, like Pictures or Downloads, but what you put into those is up […]

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Most operating systems do not provide advanced tools to organize files properly. Windows, for example, includes a few special folders, like Pictures or Downloads, but what you put into those is up to you. If you have accumulated a folder with thousands of files, you may be interested in organizing these better. Windows users have plenty of options, but many of them are rather old. I reviewed apps like <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2012/05/07/subdiv-sort-files-by-date-into-folders/" data-wpel-link="internal">SubDiv</a>, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2012/01/20/sort-files-into-folders-with-filesieve/" data-wpel-link="internal">FileSieve</a>, or <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2011/09/04/extension-indexer-sort-files-by-extension/" data-wpel-link="internal">Extension Indexer</a> in the past that help you sort files. <a href="https://github.com/Trihedron1240/FolderFresh" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">FolderFresh</a> is a newcomer. It is a free open source software for Windows that promises "intelligent file automation" for the operating system. What are the main features? <ol> <li>Sort files automatically into folders.</li> <li>Automatic sorting of files as they appear in a folder.</li> <li>Check for and deal with duplicates.</li> <li>Safe mode feature to copy files instead of moving them.</li> <li>Preview mode to verify an operation before it is executed.</li> <li>Smart sorting that can recognize certain types of files, e.g., invoices, assignments, or screenshots.</li> <li>Custom categories and advanced filters.</li> </ol> You can download the latest version of FolderFresh from the project GitHub's page. Note that it has a massive file size of over 300 megabytes, and that it needs to be installed. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211071" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/folderfresh-scaled.png" alt="" width="1200" height="830" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/folderfresh-scaled.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/folderfresh-768x531.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> Once that is out of the way, you may start the app at any time. It displays a clean interface. Rules, categories, and the activity log are linked on the right. Rules allow for operations to be complex, more about them later. Categories are all the categories the app uses to sort files into. You can create new categories or edit existing ones. Archives, for example, include only zip, rar, 7z, tar, and qz by default. You could add more archive extensions here to make sure every archive is included. The same goes for other categories, such as images, documents, or code. To run a simple operation, select choose folder at the top. Once you have selected a folder a preview is displayed automatically. It indicates each file and its operation. You can modify the defaults, for instance by excluding subfolders. When you are satisfied, hit organize files and confirm the prompt to let the program do the sorting for you. Note that safe mode is enabled by default, which means that files get copied and not moved. You may disable that there as well. Smart sorting is disabled by default. It is used to organize files that do not match any of the core categories. You may also let FolderFresh run operations automatically. Expand the advanced options and click on the "manage watched folders" button. There you may add folders for automation. In other words, any existing and all new files will be processed according to the application's rules. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211072" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/rules.png" alt="" width="877" height="1102" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/rules.png 877w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/rules-768x965.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 877px) 100vw, 877px" /> Rules extend the core functionality. They enable you to create rule-based automations that rely on conditions and actions. <ul> <li>Conditions: this is used to match files. You can pick names, sizes, content, metadata and many more here.</li> <li>Actions: this defines what happens when the app finds a file that matches the conditions. Again, lots of options, including moving or renaming files, running commands, or creating a zip archive.</li> </ul> Rules can be tested at any time until the configuration is set correctly. Options to run FolderFresh at system start and in the background are provided. The app can only run its actions when it is running itself. <h3>Closing Words</h3> FolderFresh is a mighty file organization tool for Windows. While it may take some tests to get used to its set of features, it can help users sort files in certain folders into user-defined categories. This can happen whenever you run the app, or automatically without you doing anything after setting it up. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/15/folderfresh-organize-windows-files-for-free-with-rules-and-automation/" data-wpel-link="internal">FolderFresh: organize Windows files for free with rules and automation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Brave Browser is testing agentic AI browsing in its nightly version

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 13:01:26 -0000

Brave Browser is the latest to test an agentic AI. The feature is currently in an experimental phase. Brave says that it is approaching AI browsing cautiously, considering the security risks. The […]

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Brave Browser is the latest to test an agentic AI. The feature is currently in an experimental phase. Brave says that it is approaching AI browsing cautiously, considering the security risks. The company admits security measures have not been perfected, and warns about indirect prompt injections, i.e. these are malicious instructions that are hidden on web pages, which could trick the AI to transmit sensitive data to the website. Google had recently said that these were the biggest challenges faced by AI-powered browsers, and outlined various safety mechanisms that are in-place for <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/09/google-outlines-security-protections-in-chromes-agentic-capabilities/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">agentic AI in Chrome</a>. The other issue is that AI models need to be restricted from taking actions that the user did not intend. Brave's agentic AI works in an isolated profile. This uses a separate storage to ensure cookies, caches, logins, etc., from your regular browsing data are protected. When you enable the agentic AI feature, the browser creates a separate profile that is exclusively used for the AI agent. Brave is using a second model to check the main AI agent's model. It receives the system prompt, the user prompt, and the task model’s response, and then checks if the task model’s instructions match the user’s intention. This guardrail is similar to the method that Google uses for Chrome's agentic AI. The "alignment checker" does not have access to the website and its content, to prevent prompt injections from affecting it. Brave's AI also uses security-aware system instructions: a structured prompt made by the company to encodes policy-based rules that will be updated. Claude's Sonnet hybrid reasoning model for agents is also used in Brave to mitigate prompt injections. Users will be in control while the AI agent performs its task, and will be able to view the session as the AI works, pause it or stop it at any time. Brave says that its AI has a strict no-logs, no-retention data privacy policy, and that it does not train its models on user data. The AI browsing mode works with the browser's protections, including the ad-blocker. Agentic AI browsing is currently available in Brave's Nightly channel. You can download the nightly version of Brave Browser here. Users who wish to test it will need to enable an opt-in flag. <ol> <li>Go to brave://flags</li> <li>Search for AI browsing</li> <li>You should see a result labeled "Brave's AI browsing". Its description reads, "Enables Ai browsing features and only in a separate built-in profile. – Mac, Windows, Linux. #brave-ai-chat-agent-profile"</li> <li>This option is disabled, click on the drop-down menu to enable it.</li> <li>Restart the browser to apply the changes.</li> </ol> Now you can use the AI to perform tasks, from Leo's chat interface. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211146" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Brave-Browser-is-testing-agentic-AI-browsing-in-its-nightly-version.png" alt="" width="1200" height="900" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Brave-Browser-is-testing-agentic-AI-browsing-in-its-nightly-version.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Brave-Browser-is-testing-agentic-AI-browsing-in-its-nightly-version-768x576.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> (Image courtesy: Brave) You can <a href="https://brave.com/blog/ai-browsing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">read the official announcement here</a>. Brave joins the likes of Google Chrome, OpenAI's <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/22/openai-announces-chatgpt-atlas-web-browser-currently-available-for-macos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">ChatGPT Atlas</a>, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/03/perplexity-releases-comet-browser-for-free-on-windows-and-macos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Perplexity's Comet</a>, who have all introduced an agentic AI for browsing. Have you tried Brave's agentic AI? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/12/brave-browser-is-testing-agentic-ai-browsing-in-its-nightly-version/" data-wpel-link="internal">Brave Browser is testing agentic AI browsing in its nightly version</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Share files with this free, open-source app that uses end-to-end encryption

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:42:36 -0000

Is file sharing still a big thing on today's Internet? Sending files to another device, your own or from someone else, may still be something that you need to do from time […]

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Is file sharing still a big thing on today's Internet? Sending files to another device, your own or from someone else, may still be something that you need to do from time to time. Maybe you need to move some documents to another PC, share some photos with family members, or make sure your uncle in Australia or Japan gets the latest 4K video of the last family get-together. Whatever it is, plenty of options are available today. From <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/04/01/nearby-share-google-launches-windows-beta-to-share-files-between-android-and-pcs/" data-wpel-link="internal">using cloud-services</a> and file sharing sites to sending files via mail or <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2024/08/20/how-to-send-files-between-windows-and-android-using-link-to-windows/" data-wpel-link="internal">using apps</a>. Sometimes, you may need something that is private. That usually means end-to-end encryption or another form of encryption, if the files get transferred over the Internet. <h2>Send encrypted files to other desktop systems</h2> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211029" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/altsendme-scaled.png" alt="AltSendMe Interface" width="1200" height="785" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/altsendme-scaled.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/altsendme-768x503.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> AltSendMe is a free open source tool for file transfers between two PCs running Windows, macOS or Linux. It is easy to use and uses end-to-encryption. Here are its main features: <ul> <li>Transfer files or folders of any size.</li> <li>Cross-platform sharing between Linux, macOS and Windows.</li> <li>No account needed.</li> <li>Encryption from start to finish.</li> <li>Open source.</li> <li>Works on (same) LAN and Internet.</li> </ul> Using it is relatively simple. Note however that Windows may throw a security warning when you run the program, as it is relatively new. I scanned the file at Virustotal and two of the 72 antivirus engines returned a hit, or more precisely, guessed that it could be problematic. It is safe. If you are the sender, drag and drop files or folder on the interface. You may also use the browse buttons, if you prefer that. Once you have added the files and folders, activate the start sharing button. You may get a network prompt, which you need to accept. AltSendMe displays a code, which you need to share with the receiving person. There is no integrated option to share codes, not even for PCs that have communicated before using the app. That leaves several of the other options, from using chat or email to something more secure, like a secure messenger that also uses end-to-end encryption. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-211030" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/altsendme-transfer-scaled.png" alt="AltSendMe Transfer screen" width="1200" height="785" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/altsendme-transfer-scaled.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/altsendme-transfer-768x503.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> The receiving person needs to select the receive tab in the program's interface, pick a download directory, and enter the code. This links the two devices and starts the transfer. Note that the transfer speed depends on the Internet connection of the sender and receiver. More precisely, on the sending PC's upload speed and the receiving PCs download speed. The sender can stop the transfer or listening at any time. <h3>Closing Words</h3> AltSendMe is a straightforward file transfer program for desktop PCs. It is easy to use and the main difficulty is the exchange of the share code. Using encryption to share it is the safest option. Another issue that you may run into is when you share huge file sizes. Both PCs need to be online for the sending and receiving to work. It does support pause and resume, and verifies file integrity though. Now You: Do you transfer files between devices? If so, which services or programs do you use for the job? Feel free to leave a comment down below. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/12/share-files-with-this-free-open-source-app-that-uses-end-to-end-encryption/" data-wpel-link="internal">Share files with this free, open-source app that uses end-to-end encryption</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Here are the winners of The Game Awards 2025

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:18:31 -0000

The Game Awards 2025 was held last night at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Here are all the winners from the show. No surprises as to who stole the show. Clair […]

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The Game Awards 2025 was held last night at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Here are all the winners from the show. No surprises as to who stole the show. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 made by Sandfall Interactive / Kepler Interactive won the Game of the year Award 2025. It wasn't the only prize they took home. Expedition 33 won the following categories: Best Game Direction, Best Narrative, Best Art Direction, Best Independent Game, Best Debut Indie Game, Best RPG. Lorien Testard won the Best Score and Music for composing the music for Expedition 33. Jennifer English won the Best Performance award for her performance as Maelle in Expedition 33. That's a total of 9 wins out of 13 nominations. Supergiant Games' Hades II was named the Best Action Game. Hollow Knight:Silksong won the Best Action / Adventure award. Donkey Kong Bananza won the Best Family game award. Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles was crowned with the Best Sim / Strategy game award. Mario Kart World won the Best Sports / Racing category. Arc Raiders was named the Best Multiplayer game. The Best Audio Design award was given to Battlefield 6. id Software/Bethesda Softworks won the Innovation in Accessibility award for Doom: The Dark Ages.The Games for Impact award went to South of Midnight, made by Compulsion Games/Xbox Studios. Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves won the Best Fighting award. No Man's Sky won the Best Ongoing award for continuing to support the game for a long time. Larian's efforts in Baldur's Gate 3 were rewarded with the Best Community Support award. Umamusume:Pretty Derby was named the Best Mobile Game. The Midnight Walk was handed the Best VR / AR award. The Last of US: Season 2 won the Best Adaptation award. Grand Theft Auto VI was named the Most Anticipated Game. Wuthering Waves was voted as the Players’ Voice award. A lot of new games were announced at TGA 2025, including the following. Some of the trailers have inappropriate/violent content, and may contain spoilers, which is why I have not linked them here. <ul> <li>Divinity - Larian Studios</li> <li>Control: Resonant</li> <li>LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight</li> <li>Star Wars: Fate Of The Old Republic</li> <li>Star Wars: Galactic Racer</li> <li>Tomb Raider Legacy of Atlantis</li> <li>Tomb Raider: Catalyst</li> <li>Nioh 3</li> <li>Total War: Warhammer 40,000</li> </ul> You can re-watch <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-BDeU3R5ic" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">The Game Awards 2025</a> on YouTube. A new game from Larian, 2 Tomb Raider games, and a TW:WH40K title. That was awesome news. I was hoping for Hogwarts Legacy 2 to show up, but it didn't. Speaking of which,<a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/12/hogwarts-legacy-is-free-to-claim-on-epic-games-until-december-18/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal"> Hogwarts Legacy is free on the Epic Games Store</a>. What were your favorite games of this year? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/12/here-are-the-winners-of-the-game-awards-2025/" data-wpel-link="internal">Here are the winners of The Game Awards 2025</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Hogwarts Legacy is free to claim on Epic Games until December 18

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 09:11:29 -0000

The Epic Games Store is giving away Hogwarts Legacy. You can claim the game to keep it forever. Hogwarts Legacy was released in 2023, it's an action RPG set in the Harry […]

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The Epic Games Store is giving away Hogwarts Legacy. You can claim the game to keep it forever. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/02/09/the-evolution-of-harry-potter-games-from-humble-beginnings-to-hogwarts-legacy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Hogwarts Legacy</a> was released in 2023, it's an action RPG set in the Harry Potter universe. You play as a student who joins the magical Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The story is set a century before the timeline of the Harry Potter novels, so don't expect a lot of familiar characters. But you may encounter some names that you may recognize. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211137" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Hogwarts-Legacy-is-free-on-the-Epic-Games-Store.png" alt="Hogwarts Legacy is free on the Epic Games Store" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Hogwarts-Legacy-is-free-on-the-Epic-Games-Store.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Hogwarts-Legacy-is-free-on-the-Epic-Games-Store-768x432.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-BDeU3R5ic&t=7856s" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">During The Game Awards 2025 show</a>, it was announced that Hogwarts Legacy is free on the Epic Games Store. This led to Epic's site crashing while trying to claim the game. But I was able to claim the game after a couple of hours. The giveaway runs until December 18th, 2025. So, you have plenty of time to claim the game for free. <a href="https://store.epicgames.com/en-US/p/hogwarts-legacy" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Here's the giveaway page</a> where you can get it from. Apparently you also get a "Chocolate Frog Back Bling" in Fortnite, whatever that means. Hogwarts Legacy should be a must-play for fans of Harry Potter. But even if you don't know anything about the books or movies, it's still a fun game, since you get to explore Hogwarts, cast spells, and see a lot of magical creatures. The game does have has Denuvo DRM. I was kind of hoping the Epic Games version would be DRM-Free, but it's not. The EXE's file size is 465MB, yeah, it still has the DRM. I was hoping it shouldn't be a big issue, since I've played the game once, and it was fine on Windows, even if it was using a lot of resources. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211136" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Denuvo-banned-me-for-switching-between-proton-versions.png" alt="Denuvo banned me for switching between proton versions" width="1200" height="890" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Denuvo-banned-me-for-switching-between-proton-versions.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Denuvo-banned-me-for-switching-between-proton-versions-768x570.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> But, no. It didn't run on Proton 9 for me, so I tried switching between other versions. The result was that Denuvo has soft-banned me for 24 hours. And people wonder why I'm so anti-DRM. Now, I can't even troubleshoot it, because I can't run it until tomorrow. Anyway, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/05/steam-deck-now-lets-you-download-games-when-the-display-is-off/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Steam Deck</a> users should have no problems running them. For other players on Linux, checkout <a href="https://www.protondb.com/app/990080" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">the game's page on ProtonDB</a> to see how it performs on your graphics card/CPU, and read about workarounds for potential issues. Hopefully you will have better luck than I did. The Epic Games Store's next mystery giveaway will start on December 18th, and it is possible they will follow the tradition of giving one game away every day until the new year. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/12/hogwarts-legacy-is-free-to-claim-on-epic-games-until-december-18/" data-wpel-link="internal">Hogwarts Legacy is free to claim on Epic Games until December 18</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Spotify's Prompted Playlists will let you use AI to personalize the algorithm

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:26:39 -0000

Spotify wants to put users in control of their favorite music. And it is testing an AI feature called Prompted Playlists, to help listeners personalize their experience. The music streaming service, like […]

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Spotify wants to put users in control of their favorite music. And it is testing an AI feature called Prompted Playlists, to help listeners personalize their experience. The music streaming service, like most online media services, has a vast catalog with recommendations and suggested content. This is usually driven by an algorithm, it depends on various things, like the region the user is from, what's trending, etc. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211131" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-prompted-playlist.png" alt="" width="768" height="747" /> This is what the company wants to change, with Spotify Prompted Playlist. You may be aware that Spotify already has an AI DJ, but the new experience seems more personalized. Prompted Playlists, as the name suggests, is an AI feature that analyzes the user's prompt and acts on it. Users can describe the type of music they want to hear, and the AI, will also look into the user's listening history, to find songs that match their taste and the query. It then generates a playlist that is tailored to the user's request. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211130" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Create-a-Prompted-Playlist-in-Spotify.png" alt="" width="1074" height="601" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Create-a-Prompted-Playlist-in-Spotify.png 1074w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Create-a-Prompted-Playlist-in-Spotify-768x430.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1074px) 100vw, 1074px" /> Some examples that were given by Spotify include "music from my top artists from the last five years, and feature deep cuts I haven’t heard yet." Or, "high-energy pop and hip-hop for a 30-minute 5K run that keeps a steady pace before easing into relaxing songs for a cool-down. Include music from this year’s biggest films and most-talked-about TV shows that match my taste." Those are some complex prompts, but if you are unsure what to ask the AI, tap on "Ideas" and it will display some suggested prompts. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211129" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Prompted-Playlist-feature-in-Spotify.png" alt="" width="1074" height="601" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Prompted-Playlist-feature-in-Spotify.png 1074w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Prompted-Playlist-feature-in-Spotify-768x430.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1074px) 100vw, 1074px" /> The streaming service says that Prompted Playlists can be used to curate Discover Weekly, exactly the way you want it. That help users discover new music genres or artists they may like, and artists in turn get new fans. A <a href="https://newsroom.spotify.com/2025-12-10/spotify-prompted-playlists-algorithm-gustav-soderstrom/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">video demo on Spotify's website</a> shows how Prompted Playlists work. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211128" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Prompt-to-create-playlist-in-Spotify.png" alt="" width="1074" height="601" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Prompt-to-create-playlist-in-Spotify.png 1074w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Prompt-to-create-playlist-in-Spotify-768x430.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1074px) 100vw, 1074px" /> It's not just a curated playlist, but is also updated automatically. That certainly looks cool. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211127" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Settings-for-Spotify-Prompted-playlist-update.png" alt="" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Settings-for-Spotify-Prompted-playlist-update.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Settings-for-Spotify-Prompted-playlist-update-768x432.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> But it's not available for everyone yet, and certainly not for free users. Spotify's Prompted Playlists are only available in New Zealand at the moment, for users with a Premium subscription. That's because it's still in beta. Yesterday, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/10/spotify-music-videos-are-rolling-out-to-premium-users-in-the-u-s-and-canada/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Spotify launched Music Videos</a> in the U.S. and Canada. A <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/25/spotifys-premium-plan-is-about-to-get-a-price-hike-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">price hike is incoming</a> for users in the U.S. in early 2026. I think Prompted Playlists are a good use of AI. Do you use Spotify? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/11/spotifys-prompted-playlists-will-let-you-use-ai-to-personalize-the-algorithm/" data-wpel-link="internal">Spotify's Prompted Playlists will let you use AI to personalize the algorithm</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Tiny Windows-Tool gives you one-click access to brightness, contrast, and gamma

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:46:03 -0000

How do you change display-related settings, like brighness or contrast on a Windows device? Do you use Microsoft's preferred way of doing so, by going to Settings > System> Display? Do you […]

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How do you change display-related settings, like brighness or contrast on a Windows device? Do you use Microsoft's preferred way of doing so, by going to Settings > System> Display? Do you use the controls of the display for that, or something else entirely? Windows 11 might not even display options to control the brightness or may have locked it. That is one use for the tiny, decade-old application Gamma Panel. <h2>Gamma Panel to the rescue</h2> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-210995" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/gamma-panel.png" alt="Change Brightness, Contrast and Gamma on Windows" width="435" height="348" /> Gamma Panel may be old, but it still runs on the most recent versions of Windows 11. It is a portable application with a size of less than 120 Kilobytes. You can run it from any location and it displays its screen right after start. Use the three sliders next to Gamma, Brightness, or Contrast to change the values. The changes take effect immediately and it is real easy to make the display brighter or improve the contrast. The reset button restores the defaults, which can also be handy. While that would make Gamma Panel a great app for Windows already, it comes with a kicker. You can save adjustments as color profiles and assign hotkeys to them. This enables you to switch between different color profiles with just a hotkey. Say, you want to increase the brightness and gamma while playing games, to see "more". You could create one color profile for that and assign a hotkey to it. Save another for the default setting, and you are good to go. Whenever you start a game, activate the brightness-improving hotkey and you will notice the difference immediately. Once you are done playing, activate the hotkey for the default color values and these are applied again. The website of the developer of Gamma Panel is no longer available. You can download the latest version from third-party download repositories, <a href="https://gamma-panel.en.softonic.com/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">such as that from Softonic</a> (Ghack's parent company). Gamma Panel is not the only app that offers the functionality. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2016/02/04/gamminator/" data-wpel-link="internal">I reviewed Gamminator back in 2016</a>. It is an open source application that focuses on Gamma only. Still, it is updated regularly and should work fine on recent Windows installations as well. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/11/tiny-windows-tool-gives-you-one-click-access-to-brightness-contrast-and-gamma/" data-wpel-link="internal">Tiny Windows-Tool gives you one-click access to brightness, contrast, and gamma</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
YouTube TV plans are launching in early 2026

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:08:40 -0000

YouTube TV is launching TV plans early next year. These will be available in genre-specific packages. Why? Well, it's pretty obvious, the price. YouTube TV costs $82.99 per month. That's a lot […]

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YouTube TV is launching TV plans early next year. These will be available in genre-specific packages. Why? Well, it's pretty obvious, the price. YouTube TV costs $82.99 per month. That's a lot of money, and not all subscribers want access to sports and other content that they may not be interested in. So the price does feel inflated, since you'd be paying for stuff that you don't watch./ You may recall that <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/03/youtube-tv-loses-access-to-disney-espn-and-more/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">YouTube TV was in a rough spot last month</a>, when Google and Disney clashed heads over a contract renewal dispute, that led to a blackout of Disney, ESPN, etc. It left 10+ million subscribers without access to live sporting events. Google had issued a <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/10/youtube-tv-is-issuing-a-20-credit-to-subscribers-after-losing-access-to-espn-disney/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">one-time credit of $20</a> to compensate users, but the situation was resolved quickly, and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/17/disneys-channels-are-back-on-youtube-tv-after-a-2-week-blackout/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Disney restored access to its channels on YouTube</a>. Now, Google has come up with an idea to address this issue, the YouTube TV Sports Plan. It will offer access to major broadcasters, and sports networks like FS1, NBC Sports Network, all of the ESPN networks, as well as ESPN Unlimited. Users may opt for add-ons like NFL Sunday Ticket and RedZone. They will also have access to unlimited DVR, multiview, key plays, and fantasy view. YouTube has not announced the price of its upcoming plans, or any more details about the other plans. But it <a href="https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/introducing-youtube-tv-plans-launching-early-2026/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">has confirmed</a> that the main plan, that offers access to 100+ channels, is here to stay. Subscribers may choose genre-specific plans like sports, or sports and news, or family and entertainment. It is definitely an interesting approach, almost like cable and other TV providers do it with add-on packs. And this is how it should have been done in the first place. Hopefully, the new plans should help people save some money, if only like a specific genre or two. Affordable plans may also help YouTube TV attract more subscribers. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/11/youtube-tv-plans-are-launching-in-early-2026/" data-wpel-link="internal">YouTube TV plans are launching in early 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express and Adobe Acrobat are now available in ChatGPT for free users

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:09:25 -0000

Adobe has announced that Photoshop, Express and Acrobat apps are now available in ChatGPT. Here's how to access them. (Image courtesy: Adobe) Before you get started, you will need to sign in […]

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Adobe has announced that Photoshop, Express and Acrobat apps are now available in ChatGPT. Here's how to access them. (Image courtesy: Adobe) Before you get started, you will need to sign in to your ChatGPT account and open the Settings, and go to Apps and Connectors. Here's the direct URL for the page: <a href="https://chatgpt.com/#settings/Connectors" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">https://chatgpt.com/#settings/Connectors</a> Select Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Express, and click on the Connect button. Now you have access to the three apps within ChatGPT. Note: You don't need an Adobe account to access Photoshop and Acrobat, but you need to sign in to use Express. Adobe's terms and conditions, privacy policy will apply to the content you allow the apps to access in ChatGPT. You can disconnect the apps at any time. Once you have uploaded an image to ChatGPT, you can use Photoshop to edit and enhance their images by using simple prompts in the chat. You can describe what you want to the AI, and it will make the adjustments accordingly. To use it, just type "Adobe Photoshop" (without the quotes), and follow it with your request. For example, "Adobe Photoshop, make the people pop in my vacation photo." <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211118" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/ChatGPT-Adobe-apps.png" alt="ChatGPT Adobe apps" width="665" height="720" /> You can ask it to make people in an image pop, or change the background. It also allows some manual controls for adjusting the brightness, contrast, exposure, and to apply effects like Glitch and Glow. Note: Photoshop requires your browser to support WebGPU. Adobe's Express app for ChatGPT can be used to create images, invitations, holiday cards, etc. The app lets you take your pick from various templates, which you can use as a base, and customize it to your liking. You can edit the text, replace images, animate designs, etc. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211116" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Adobe-Express-for-ChatGPT.png" alt="Adobe Express for ChatGPT" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Adobe-Express-for-ChatGPT.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Adobe-Express-for-ChatGPT-768x432.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> (Image credit: Adobe) Users can use Adobe Acrobat in ChatGPT to edit PDFs, extract text or tables using Optical Character Recognition (OCR). The app can be used to redact sensitive details from documents. It can organize, split or merge files. You can convert your images and documents to PDFs. Adobe says the app will preserve the formatting of the original document. Here's a <a href="https://helpx.adobe.com/acrobat/web/use-acrobat-extensions/acrobat-for-chatgpt/overview.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">support page</a> with more details. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211115" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Adobe-Acrobat-for-ChatGPT.png" alt="Adobe Acrobat for ChatGPT" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Adobe-Acrobat-for-ChatGPT.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Adobe-Acrobat-for-ChatGPT-768x432.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> (Image courtesy: Adobe) Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express and Adobe Acrobat are available for all ChatGPT users globally, including those with a free account. The apps are available on ChatGPT desktop, web and iOS. Adobe Express for ChatGPT is available on Android, and <a href="https://news.adobe.com/news/2025/12/adobe-photoshop-express-acrobat-chatgpt" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">the company's announcement says</a> that the Photoshop and Acrobat for ChatGPT apps are coming soon to Android. I guess it's kinda cool to make edits in Photoshop easily by just describing them, even if you have zero editing skills. I only tested it briefly, but the toolset seems to be pretty basic. It is unclear whether there are usage limits for the apps. FYI, Google Photos lets you <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/12/google-photos-gets-more-ai-features-to-edit-pictures/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">edit photos using AI</a>, and to <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/07/25/google-adds-ai-features-to-transform-photos-into-videos-in-google-photos-and-youtube-shorts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">transform photos into videos</a> or create Shorts. Have you tried Adobe's apps in ChatGPT? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/11/adobe-photoshop-adobe-express-and-adobe-acrobat-are-now-available-in-chatgpt-for-free-users/" data-wpel-link="internal">Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express and Adobe Acrobat are now available in ChatGPT for free users</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Google announces repair program for Pixel 9 Pro, and extends Pixel 9 Pro Fold warranty

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:15:28 -0000

Google has announced an extended repair program for the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL. It is also extending the warranty for Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Google launched the Pixel 9 series […]

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Google has announced an extended repair program for the Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL. It is also extending the warranty for Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Google launched the Pixel 9 series in late August 2024. The Mountain View company says that a limited number of Pixel 9 Pro and Pro XL devices may be affected by display problems. These include phones with a vertical line on the display, that runs from the bottom to the top, and devices that have a flickering display. The extended repair program provides coverage for 3 years after the original retail-purchase date. The repair program has already started, it began on December 8th, and is available at Google walk-in centers and authorized centers. Users whose Pixel 9 Pro XL or Pro meet the eligibility will be able to claim a free repair to fix the problem. Any further repairs, under this extended repair program, are warrantied for 90 days. Refer to this <a href="https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16737524" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">support page for</a> more details. Google says the devices will be inspected at the repair facility to verify the eligibility for the repair. Physical damage such as cracked displays or cover-glass, and damage due to liquid may disqualify your device from the repair program. Go to the <a href="https://store.google.com/repair?hl=en-US" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Google Store website</a> to check if your device qualifies for the program. Google has also announced that it is extending the warranty program for the Pixel 9 Pro Foldable, starting December 8th, 2025. As <a href="https://9to5google.com/2025/12/08/google-pixel-9-pro-display-repair-program-fold-warranty/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">9to5Google</a> reports, it's unclear what the issue with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is. Google's support page mentions that some "Fold devices may experience issues that affect functionality of the device". It seems to be related to a display problem too, but unlike the regular models, Google isn't just repairing the foldable devices. Users with a Pixel 9 Pro Fold that is impacted may be eligible for a free replacement. According to a <a href="https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/16737529" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">support page</a> on the company's website, the same inspection and eligibility rules apply here too. So check if your Fold is eligible for a replacement. In April this year, Google had announced an <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/04/25/google-announces-extended-repair-program-for-pixel-7a/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">extended repair program for the Pixel 7a</a>, it was related to batteries swelling up. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/10/google-announces-repair-program-for-pixel-9-pro-and-extends-pixel-9-pro-fold-warranty/" data-wpel-link="internal">Google announces repair program for Pixel 9 Pro, and extends Pixel 9 Pro Fold warranty</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Windows 11: How to remove AI Actions from File Explorer

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:21:10 -0000

When Microsoft introduced the dual context menu in Windows 11, it explained that the new modern version would also address a problem that many Windows users faced after years of usage: context […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Windows 11: How to remove AI Actions from File Explorer appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

When Microsoft introduced the dual context menu in Windows 11, it explained that the new modern version would also address a problem that many Windows users faced after years of usage: context menu bloat. However, while Microsoft might have that in mind when it added the new context menu as a layer on top of the old, which still exists, it probably did not foresee the rise of AI in the organization and the desire to add "AI to everything". When you right-click on files in Windows 11, version 24H2 or later, you may see yet another entry in the modern context menu. AI actions lists all the AI-related actions that Windows users may undertake when they select files. From running a visual search on Bing over removing backgrounds with Paint to erasing objects in Photos. <figure id="attachment_211043" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-211043" style="width: 1166px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-211043" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/File-Explorer-AI-Actions.png" alt="AI actions in File Explorer" width="1166" height="727" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/File-Explorer-AI-Actions.png 1166w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/File-Explorer-AI-Actions-768x479.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1166px) 100vw, 1166px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-211043" class="wp-caption-text">The AI actions menu in File Explorer. I(mage source: Microsoft)</figcaption></figure> While that may be indeed useful to some users, others may have no need for them or no desire to use them. Up until now, Windows 11 did not include a built-in option to remove AI actions from the context menu. However, that changed in the most recent builds for the operating system. Microsoft notes in the release notes of build 26220.7344: "If there are no available or enabled AI Actions, this section will no longer show in the context menu." Here is what that means: Microsoft won't show the entry for file types that do not have any associated AI actions. Windows users may also disable actions in Settings to hide the entire menu. This is done in the following way: <ol> <li>Open the Settings application, for instance via Start or by using the keyboard shortcut Windows-I.</li> <li>Go to Apps.</li> <li>Click on the Actions menu on the page.</li> <li>Toggle all apps listed there to Off.</li> </ol> Doing so disables all actions and has the consequence that the AI actions menu is no longer displayed. When you keep some, actions for supported file types continue to be displayed. Note that the change is upcoming for stable Windows 11 builds. Microsoft has not made an announcement yet, which means that it may take a while before the option becomes available. If things go slow, it could not show up until late in 2026 when Microsoft plans to release the next major feature update for Windows 11. Now You: Have you used AI actions in the past already? If so, did you find the experience satisfying? Feel free to leave a comment down below. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/10/windows-11-how-to-remove-ai-actions-from-file-explorer/" data-wpel-link="internal">Windows 11: How to remove AI Actions from File Explorer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Spotify music videos are rolling out to Premium users in the U.S. and Canada

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:47:30 -0000

Spotify has announced that music videos are now rolling out to Premium users in the U.S. and Canada. It's still in beta. Spotify had debuted music videos on its platform in early […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Spotify music videos are rolling out to Premium users in the U.S. and Canada appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Spotify has announced that music videos are now rolling out to Premium users in the U.S. and Canada. It's still in beta. Spotify had debuted music videos on its platform in early 2024 for a dozen countries, before expanding it to 85 more regions around the world in late October 2024. You can view a list of countries where the feature is available in, on <a href="https://support.spotify.com/us/artists/article/music-videos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">this page</a>. (Image credits: Spotify) Oddly, the U.S. wasn't in one of the 97 countries where the music videos were available. Spotify's music videos catalog features the following artists: Ariana Grande, Olivia Dean, BABYMONSTER, Addison Rae, Tyler Childers, Natanael Cano, and Carín León. That's a very short list, but the streaming service says it will grow quickly in the coming months. That's probably why it's being called a beta. Music videos on Spotify are available across TV, desktop, iOS and Android. If you are a Premium subscriber from one of the beta markets, you can try it out by playing a supported track, and selecting the option that says "Switch to video". <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211106" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-switch-to-video.png" alt="Spotify switch to video" width="1200" height="651" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-switch-to-video.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-switch-to-video-768x417.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> (Image courtesy: Spotify) The video will start playing where the song left off. The video will play in portrait mode on mobile, but users can watch the videos in full-screen on landscape mode too. You can revert to audio-only, by selecting "Switch to audio." <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211105" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-music-videos.png" alt="Spotify music videos" width="1200" height="648" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-music-videos.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Spotify-music-videos-768x415.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> (Image courtesy: Spotify) Users can scroll down while a video is playing to view related videos. Spotify also has playlists like 90s Video Hits, Hip-Hop Throwbacks, and Latin Party Hits that users can choose to watch. <a href="https://newsroom.spotify.com/2025-12-09/music-videos-beta-premium-us-canada/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Spotify says</a> that music videos are rolling out, and will be available for all Premium subscribers in the U.S. and Canada by the end of the month. Can it grow to compete with <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/26/youtube-is-testing-your-custom-feed-a-way-to-let-users-personalize-their-home-feed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">YouTube</a>? FYI, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/25/spotifys-premium-plan-is-about-to-get-a-price-hike-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Spotify is set to hike its prices in the U.S</a>. early next year, and these music videos could be one of the reasons why that could happen. Have you tried music videos on Spotify? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/10/spotify-music-videos-are-rolling-out-to-premium-users-in-the-u-s-and-canada/" data-wpel-link="internal">Spotify music videos are rolling out to Premium users in the U.S. and Canada</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Age of Empires II DE, Age of Empires 4 and Age of Mythology: Retold are getting new DLCs in 2026

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 06:04:56 -0000

Xbox has announced that Age of Empires II DE, Age of Empires 4 and Age of Mythology: Retold are getting new DLCs. Let's take a look at what we can expect. You […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Age of Empires II DE, Age of Empires 4 and Age of Mythology: Retold are getting new DLCs in 2026 appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Xbox has announced that Age of Empires II DE, Age of Empires 4 and Age of Mythology: Retold are getting new DLCs. Let's take a look at what we can expect. You may be aware that Xbox released two expansions for Age of Mythology: Retold this year. The Immortal Pillars DLC, which is set in China, and Heavenly Spear, which is set in Japan. Both DLCs came with a singleplayer campaign, which has been received warmly by fans. Age of Mythology: Retold is getting a new expansion pass in 2026, featuring the Aztec pantheon in Obsidian?Mirror. The expansion will come with a 12-mission campaign set in continents, celestial realms. Players will be able to choose to follow Tezcatlipoca?and?Quetzalcoatl, and recruit myth units like the Stone Skin Quinametzin. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211097" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Mythology-Retold-Obsidian-Mirror-Aztec-expansion.png" alt="Age of Mythology Retold Obsidian Mirror Aztec expansion" width="1080" height="608" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Mythology-Retold-Obsidian-Mirror-Aztec-expansion.png 1080w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Mythology-Retold-Obsidian-Mirror-Aztec-expansion-768x432.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /> The game is also adding Demeter, the harvest goddess to the Greek pantheon, with new god powers and myth units. Microsoft is also bringing some cosmetic DLCs to AoM Retold. The Expansion Pass will be available for pre-order on December 18th with a 15% discount that will run until the first of the 4 items has been released. Microsoft had released 2 DLCs for Age of Empires IV in 2025, but the Knights of Cross and Rose expansion and the Dynasties of the East expansion have received mixed reviews. There were many bugs at launch. Neither of these come with a campaign, so that could also be part of the reason why some players weren't particularly happy with the DLCs. Age of Empires IV will get 2 new expansions in 2026. The first one will feature a campaign set in Chinese history, this DLC will be released in Spring next year. The other DLC, will add 2 new civilizations, one of which will feature The Vikings. The Crucible mode is getting support for co-op gameplay. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211100" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Empires-4-Chinese-DLC.png" alt="Age of Empires 4 Chinese DLC" width="1080" height="619" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Empires-4-Chinese-DLC.png 1080w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Empires-4-Chinese-DLC-768x440.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /> Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition wasn't left out, it also got 2 expansions packs in 2025, Alexander the Great, and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/04/11/age-of-empires-2-definitive-edition-gets-5-new-civilizations-in-the-three-kingdoms-dlc/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">The Three Kingdoms</a>. Both DLCs came with campaigns, but the latter was criticized by some fans because of its fantasy themed gameplay and hero units with special abilities. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is getting an expansion focused on South America. It's called The Last Chieftains, and features 3 new civilizations with unique units and technologies. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211098" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Empires-II-Definitive-Edition-–-The-Last-Chieftains.png" alt="Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition – The Last Chieftains" width="1080" height="608" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Empires-II-Definitive-Edition-–-The-Last-Chieftains.png 1080w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Age-of-Empires-II-Definitive-Edition-–-The-Last-Chieftains-768x432.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /> The new civs are Mapuche, Muisca, and the Tupi. And the DLC will come with 3 new campaigns following heroes such as Lautaro, Pacanchique, and Arariboia, and will include notable characters such as the berserker Galvarino, and Nicolas Durand the swashbuckling adventurer. Players can choose to play the Muisca campaign on the side of the noble Nemequene or the greedy Quemuenchatocha. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211099" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/New-civs-in-AOE-2-DE-The-Last-Chieftains.png" alt="New civs in AOE 2 DE The Last Chieftains" width="1037" height="397" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/New-civs-in-AOE-2-DE-The-Last-Chieftains.png 1037w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/New-civs-in-AOE-2-DE-The-Last-Chieftains-768x294.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1037px) 100vw, 1037px" /> The Last Chieftains DLC will be available for pre-order in January. Here's the<a href="https://www.ageofempires.com/news/whats-coming-in-2026-for-age-of-empires-and-age-of-mythology/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external"> announcement page</a>, if you want to read more about the expansions. I've been a fan of AOE since 1999. I still remember how excited I was to play as the Aztecs in The Montezuma campaign when The Conquerors DLC was released in 2000. AoM was amazing too. Those were great days for the RTS genre. It's great to see the games evolve. Which one of these 3 games do you like? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/10/age-of-empires-ii-de-age-of-empires-4-and-age-of-mythology-retold-are-getting-new-dlcs-in-2026/" data-wpel-link="internal">Age of Empires II DE, Age of Empires 4 and Age of Mythology: Retold are getting new DLCs in 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
The last Windows security updates of 2025 are here

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 18:17:30 -0000

It is December 2025 already and Microsoft has released the last security updates of the year for its Windows operating system just a moment ago. The updates are available for all supported […]

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It is December 2025 already and Microsoft has released the last security updates of the year for its Windows operating system just a moment ago. The updates are available for all supported versions of Windows, including Windows 10, which is on life-support already with extended support releases. Our weekly overview provides home users and system administrators with actionable information. While it depends on Microsoft to a large margin, it gives a quick overview of the updates that Microsoft released, the severity of security issues and more. It also links to support pages and downloads, and lists all confirmed issues by Microsoft. <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/11/microsoft-windows-security-updates-for-november-2025-are-now-available/" data-wpel-link="internal">As announced last month already</a>, Windows 11, version 23H2 Home and Pro editions do not receive updates anymore. Users should be able to update to a newer version of Windows 11 to continue receiving updates. <h2>Microsoft Windows Security Updates: December 2025</h2> You may download the following Excel spreadsheet to get a list of released updates. Click on the following link to download the archive to the local device: <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/windows-security-updates-december-2025.zip" data-wpel-link="internal">Windows security updates December 2025</a> Executive Summary <ul> <li>Microsoft released a total of 57 security updates for various Microsoft products and 13 security update for non-Microsoft issues (e.g. Chromium).</li> <li>No critical issues for Windows client and server systems according to Microsoft.</li> <li>Windows clients with issues: <ul> <li>Windows 10: none</li> <li>Windows 11: 24H2 and 25H2</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows Server clients with issues: <ul> <li>Windows Server 2008, 23H2, 2022, 2025</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h2>Product overview</h2> Each supported version of Windows and their critical vulnerabilities are listed below. <ul> <li>Windows 10 version 22H2: 31 vulnerabilities, 0 critical, 31 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows 11 version 24H2: 36 vulnerabilities, 0 critical, 36 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows 11 version 25H2: 36 vulnerabilities, 0 critical, 36 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> Windows Server products <ul> <li>Windows Server 2008 R2 (extended support only): 11 vulnerabilities: 0 critical, 11 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows Server 2016: 18 vulnerabilities: 0 critical, 18 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows Server 2019: 29 vulnerabilities: 0 critical, 29 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows Server 2022: 32 vulnerabilities: 0 critical, 32 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Windows Server 2025: 36 vulnerabilities: 0 critical, 36 important <ul> <li>No critical vulnerabilities.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h2>Windows Security Updates</h2> Windows 10 version 22H2 <ul> <li>Support Page: <a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/december-9-2025-kb5071546-os-builds-19045-6691-and-19044-6691-8a3638de-3024-40bb-a41f-bcc09893758b" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">KB5071546</a></li> </ul> Updates and improvements: <ul> <li>[Powershell] The Invoke-WebRequest command now includes a confirmation prompt with a security warning of a script execution risk. This prevents script execution from web content without user authorization.</li> <li>Security updates.</li> </ul> Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2 <ul> <li>Support page: <a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/december-9-2025-kb5072033-os-builds-26200-7462-and-26100-7462-0c1a4334-19ba-406d-bb1e-88fcffc87b79" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">KB5072033</a></li> </ul> Updates and improvements: <ul> <li>Fixed: This update addresses an issue where Ask Copilot didn’t activate the Click to Do window as expected</li> <li>Fixed: This update addresses an issue where File Explorer briefly flashes white when you navigate between pages.</li> <li>Fixed: This update fixes an issue where external virtual switches lose their physical network adapter (NIC) bindings after a host reboot.</li> <li>[Powershell] The Invoke-WebRequest command now includes a confirmation prompt with a security warning of a script execution risk. This prevents script execution from web content without user authorization.</li> <li>Security updates.</li> </ul> <h3>Known Issues</h3> Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2 <ul> <li>[NEW] Password buttons may be missing or invisible in the lock screen sign-in options. <ul> <li>Workaround: The issue is mitigated using Known Issues Rollback. Users can hover over the invisible password button to click and activate it.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <h3>Security advisories and updates</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/en-us/vulnerability/ADV990001" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/en-us/vulnerability/ADV990001">ADV 990001</a> -- Latest Servicing Stack Updates</li> </ul> Microsoft Office Updates <div id="td-incontent-642267558391" class="rvloader-container mb--10">You find Office update information <a href="https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/officeupdates/office-updates-msi" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/officeupdates/office-updates-msi">here</a>.</div> <h3>How to download and install the December 2025 security updates</h3> Microsoft distributes security updates automatically to consumer devices and non-managed devices by default. It make take hours or days before they are offered on a particular system, but there is a workaround for getting them right away. Here is how you install the update immediately on a system: <ol> <li>Open the Start menu, type Windows Update, and select the result.</li> <li>Activate the "check for updates" button. This runs a manual check for updates.</li> <li>Activate the "download & install all" button, if the update is not downloaded automatically.</li> </ol> I suggest you create a system backup before installing any updates for Windows. <h4>Direct update downloads</h4> Below are resource pages with direct download links, if you prefer to download the updates to install them manually. <div id="td-incontent-1319851954097" class="rvloader-container mb--10"> <div class="rv-ad"> <div id="td-incontent-1319851954097__ad" data-google-query-id="CL2l1Ne2n40DFVIZigMd0z8syg"> <div id="google_ads_iframe_/5302/desktop/ghacks-desktop-en/GH-Features/GH-Articlepage/BTF_Leaderboard_Infinite_refresh_5__container__">Windows 10 version 22H2</div> </div> </div> </div> <ul> <li> <a href="https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB5071546" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">KB5071546</a> -- 2025-12 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version 22H2 </li> </ul> Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2 <ul> <li id="page-header"> <a href="https://www.catalog.update.microsoft.com/Search.aspx?q=KB5072033" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">KB5072033</a> -- 2025-12 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2 </li> </ul> <h4 class="entry">Additional resources</h4> <section class="entry"> <ul> <li><a href="https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/releaseNote/2025-Dec" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/releaseNote/2023-Jul">December 2025 Security Updates release notes</a></li> <li><a class="ext-link" title="" href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/topic/description-of-software-update-services-and-windows-server-update-services-changes-in-content-for-2025-kb894199-0c540f4f-60c8-7dc2-23c9-48153749966d" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/description-of-software-update-services-and-windows-server-update-services-changes-in-content-for-2021-kb894199-0c540f4f-60c8-7dc2-23c9-48153749966d">List of software updates for Microsoft products</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2017/01/16/latest-windows-updates-and-service-packs-overview/" data-wpel-link="internal" data-mrf-link="https://www.ghacks.net/2017/01/16/latest-windows-updates-and-service-packs-overview/">List of the latest Windows Updates and Services Packs</a></li> <li><a href="https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-us/security-guidance" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://portal.msrc.microsoft.com/en-us/security-guidance">Security Updates Guide</a></li> <li><a href="https://catalog.update.microsoft.com/" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://catalog.update.microsoft.com/">Microsoft Update Catalog site</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2010/12/20/microsoft-windows-update-overview-all-you-need-to-know/" data-wpel-link="internal" data-mrf-link="https://www.ghacks.net/2010/12/20/microsoft-windows-update-overview-all-you-need-to-know/">Our in-depth Windows update guide</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2018/02/15/how-to-install-optional-updates-on-windows-10/" data-wpel-link="internal" data-mrf-link="https://www.ghacks.net/2018/02/15/how-to-install-optional-updates-on-windows-10/">How to install optional updates on Windows 10</a></li> <li><a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/windows-11-version-25h2-update-history-99c7f493-df2a-4832-bd2d-6706baa0dec0" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external">Windows 11 25H2 Update History</a></li> <li><a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/windows-11-version-24h2-update-history-0929c747-1815-4543-8461-0160d16f15e5" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/windows-11-version-24h2-update-history-0929c747-1815-4543-8461-0160d16f15e5">Windows 11 24H2 Update History</a></li> <li><a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/windows-10-update-history-8127c2c6-6edf-4fdf-8b9f-0f7be1ef3562" target="_blank" rel="external noopener noreferrer nofollow" data-wpel-link="external" data-mrf-link="https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/windows-10-update-history-857b8ccb-71e4-49e5-b3f6-7073197d98fb">Windows 10 Update History</a></li> </ul> </section> Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/09/the-last-windows-security-updates-of-2025-are-here/" data-wpel-link="internal">The last Windows security updates of 2025 are here</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Google outlines security protections in Chrome's agentic capabilities

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:15:16 -0000

Google has outlined the security protections that it has implemented for agentic features in Chrome. This is how Gemini will protect itself and you from threats. In case you missed it, Google […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Google outlines security protections in Chrome's agentic capabilities appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Google has outlined the security protections that it has implemented for agentic features in Chrome. This is how Gemini will protect itself and you from threats. In case you missed it, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/09/18/google-is-turning-chrome-into-an-ai-browser-and-the-rollout-has-already-started/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Google started rolling out AI features in Chrome</a> a few months ago, for users in the U.S. Google highlights that the main threat that agentic browsers are facing is indirect prompt injection. That's basically a hijacked prompt that tricks the AI. Such attacks can occur when a malicious site is visited, or distributed via third-party content in iframes. It could even spread due to fake reviews generated by users. These indirect prompts could result the AI agent to take unwanted actions, which may include financial transactions, or even leaking sensitive data. In order to combat this, Google says it is preparing a layered defense with deterministic and probabilistic defenses. It says that this will make it harder for attackers to cause harm, and will also be costlier for threat actors. The first layer is something called, "User Alignment Critic", which is a separate model that is isolated from Gemini's main model. Google describes it as follows, "the User Alignment Critic runs after the planning is complete, to double-check each proposed action". What that means is, the UAC analyzes whether the actions that the agent planned for the requested task, aligns with the user's goal. If the action is misaligned, the UAC will prevent it from executing. Refer to the flow chart above, that shows the steps involved in the process.   Google says that the Alignment Critic will not access untrustworthy web content, and only has access to the metadata for the proposed action. That's what makes it isolated from the main model. The UAC will provide feedback to the planning model to re-formulate the plan, which in turn will return control to the user in case of repeated failures. Chrome's Site Isolation and the same-origin policy are a core of the agentic security model. Agents have access across websites, but if it is unrestricted, it could be compromised and interact with arbitrary sites, i.e. bypass Site Isolation. This could lead to data theft or worse. To prevent this, the agentic AI will follow Agent Origin Sets. It restricts agents to only access data from the origins that are related to the current task, or the data that the user shared with the agent. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211086" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Chrome-agentic-AI-origin-sets.png" alt="Chrome agentic AI origin sets" width="1200" height="648" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Chrome-agentic-AI-origin-sets.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Chrome-agentic-AI-origin-sets-768x415.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> The content that Gemini is permitted to access are read-only origins, while access to all other origins are prevented. Actionable items such as those that can be clicked, typed, are read-writable origins, as are the content that it can read on a page. The AI agent will ask the user's permission before it navigates to sensitive sites, such as dealing with banking transactions or medical information. To do this, the AI runs a deterministic check against a list of sensitive sites. The agent will confirm with the user, before letting Chrome to sign in to a site via Google Password Manager. The Mountain View company says that the AI does not have access to the passwords. Finally, the agent will pause and ask the user's permission, for actions such as completing a purchase or payment, sending messages, or consequential actions. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211087" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-AI-Agent-log-scaled.png" alt="Google Chrome AI Agent log" width="1159" height="1200" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-AI-Agent-log-scaled.png 1159w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-AI-Agent-log-768x795.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1159px) 100vw, 1159px" /> In addition to the above checks, Google is employing several processes to detect threats and respond to them. Chrome's real-time scanning with Safe Browsing and on-device AI are used to protect from traditional scams. And a prompt-injection classifier runs in parallel to the planning model’s inference. It will prevent actions from being taken based on content, if it determines something is targeting the model to do something unaligned with the user’s goal. Read the full <a href="https://security.googleblog.com/2025/12/architecting-security-for-agentic.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">announcement on Google's blog</a> for further details. Google Chrome may take on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/03/perplexity-releases-comet-browser-for-free-on-windows-and-macos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Perplexity Comet</a>, and <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/22/openai-announces-chatgpt-atlas-web-browser-currently-available-for-macos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">ChatGPT Atlas</a> with its agentic browsing capabilities. What do you think about agentic AIs? Have you used any? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/09/google-outlines-security-protections-in-chromes-agentic-capabilities/" data-wpel-link="internal">Google outlines security protections in Chrome's agentic capabilities</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Firefox 146 lets Windows 10 users backup their data, brings fractional scaled displays on Wayland

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:05:22 -0000

Mozilla has released the Firefox 146.0 update. The update ships with a handful of improvements and fixes. Firefox users on Windows 10 can backup their data from the browsers settings, to save […]

Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post Firefox 146 lets Windows 10 users backup their data, brings fractional scaled displays on Wayland appeared first on gHacks Technology News.

Mozilla has released the Firefox 146.0 update. The update ships with a handful of improvements and fixes. Firefox users on Windows 10 can backup their data from the browsers settings, to save their passwords, bookmarks, browsing data, etc. This feature requires users to sign in to Firefox sync, i.e. it is a cloud-powered feature. You can encrypt the backup with a password. This backup can be helpful if you're switching to a new device or reinstalling Firefox, you can just restore the backup. Here is the<a href="https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/switching-devices" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external"> support page</a> for the feature. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211078" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Firefox-Windows-10-backup.png" alt="" width="1200" height="873" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Firefox-Windows-10-backup.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Firefox-Windows-10-backup-768x559.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Backup is currently available for Windows 10, it's not available on Windows 11, though it does have an option to restore data from a backup. Mozilla says the feature will be available on other operating systems soon. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211079" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Firefox-backup-tool-Windows-10.png" alt="" width="1047" height="838" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Firefox-backup-tool-Windows-10.png 1047w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Firefox-backup-tool-Windows-10-768x615.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1047px) 100vw, 1047px" /> Firefox now natively supports fractional scaled displays on Wayland. According to Mozilla, this makes rendering more effective. I haven't tested this yet. There are a couple of enhancements to the search experience. You can now skip the results page, and view results directly in the address bar while typing your query. I wrote about the <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/28/firefox-may-soon-display-search-results-directly-in-the-address-bar/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">inline search experience</a> in October, you can find more about it by reading my previous article. This feature is rolling out to users. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-210323" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Firefox-display-search-results-directly-in-the-address-bar.jpg" alt="Firefox display search results directly in the address bar" width="1200" height="462" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Firefox-display-search-results-directly-in-the-address-bar.jpg 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Firefox-display-search-results-directly-in-the-address-bar-768x296.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> The address bar will display suggestions for holidays and other important dates, for English language users in France, Germany and Italy. Mozilla has changed a workflow for the New Tab's Weather option, users in the EU and some other countries can choose whether to enable location detection for the weather, or manually search for a location. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211077" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Mozilla-Firefox-Weather-new-tab.png" alt="" width="1002" height="560" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Mozilla-Firefox-Weather-new-tab.png 1002w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Mozilla-Firefox-Weather-new-tab-768x429.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1002px) 100vw, 1002px" /> Users no longer need to enable studies/telemetry to access Firefox Labs, it is now available to all users. To access Labs, go to the browsers Settings > Experimental features, or just open this page: about:preferences#experimental It has <a href="https://support.mozilla.org/hsb/kb/firefox-labs-explore-experimental-features-firefox" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">3 experiments</a> at the moment: <ul> <li>Address Bar: show results during IME composition</li> <li><a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2024/08/27/firefoxs-automatic-picture-in-picture-mode-is-a-time-saver-for-those-who-use-it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Picture-in-Picture</a>: auto-open on tab switch</li> <li><a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/23/two-new-tab-widgets-are-now-available-in-firefox-labs-lists-and-focus-timer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Lists and timer</a> on Firefox Home</li> </ul> On a side note, if you had enabled New Tab Widgets, you may have noticed that they have not been working for a week or so. That's because the experiment had been <a href="https://connect.mozilla.org/t5/discussions/update-paused-feedback-welcome-for-new-tab-widgets-now-available/td-p/108354" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">paused due to a bug</a> that affected the lists widget. This issue has been patched. The Colors dialog in Settings now has clearer color picker controls, and displays each color sample next to its label, allowing users to understand the options that they have set, and make adjustments easily. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211080" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Custom-colors-mozilla-firefox.png" alt="" width="1200" height="791" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Custom-colors-mozilla-firefox.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Custom-colors-mozilla-firefox-768x506.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> Firefox for Mac now uses a dedicated GPU process by default, which includes WebGPU, WebGL, and Firefox's own WebRender. This will prevent fatal errors in graphics code from crashing the browser, it will restart the GPU process transparently. Firefox 146 no longer supports Direct2D on Windows. Users who need Direct2D are advised to use Firefox ESR 140.0 or higher. Mozilla has fixed a bug in the Windows version of Firefox, that prevented users from selecting a tab, when the browser was maximized and the cursor was at the top of the screen. This issue affected users with some monitors. Firefox 146 is currently available for download at <a href="https://ftp.mozilla.org/pub/firefox/releases/146.0/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Mozilla's FTP servers</a>, it should be released on the official website shortly. <a href="https://ftp.mozilla.org/pub/firefox/releases/140.6.0esr/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Firefox ESR 140.6.0</a> has also been released. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/09/firefox-146-lets-windows-10-users-backup-their-data-brings-fractional-scaled-displays-on-wayland/" data-wpel-link="internal">Firefox 146 lets Windows 10 users backup their data, brings fractional scaled displays on Wayland</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Proton Sheets is an end-to-end encrypted alternative for Google Sheets

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 12:11:35 -0000

Proton is ready to take on Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel, with Proton Sheets. It is a privacy-focused, web-based spreadsheet editor app. Last year, Proton launched Docs, an alternative for Microsoft Word […]

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Proton is ready to take on Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel, with Proton Sheets. It is a privacy-focused, web-based spreadsheet editor app. Last year, Proton launched Docs, an alternative for Microsoft Word and Google Docs. Proton's had a busy year, it launched <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/07/23/proton-launches-a-privacy-friendly-ai-called-lumo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Lumo AI</a> in July, and followed it up with <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/07/31/proton-authenticator-free-open-source-two-factor-authentication-app/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Proton Authenticator</a> in the same month. The <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/09/26/proton-mail-app-gets-a-redesign-offline-mode-on-android-and-ios/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Proton Mail app was redesigned</a> a couple of months ago. The Switzerland-based company, says Proton Sheets was developed as an alternative for other cloud based office suites that exposes sensitive data to threats like surveillance, tracking, and nowadays, it's also used for training AI models. Like the rest of Proton's products, Sheets is also an end-to-end encrypted service. <a href="https://proton.me/blog/sheets-proton-drive" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">The company says</a> that all data in Sheets are end-to-end encrypted, including metadata like filenames. (Image courtesy: Proton) Proton Sheets supports various built-in formulas, lets you visualize data as charts and graphs. Users can collaborate with others on their team in real-time, assign tasks, set timelines for your project, etc. Your work in Sheets is synced in real-time across your devices, so you can switch from desktop to mobile to work on the go. You can learn more about its features on the <a href="https://proton.me/support/drive/sheets" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">support portal for Sheets</a>. Interested in trying it? It's free for all users with a Proton Drive account. Go to <a href="https://drive.proton.me/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">https://drive.proton.me/</a>,click on New and select New sheet. Users can also import their CSV or XLS files to get started with the editor. Proton Sheets is gradually rolling out to users, so it may not be available for all users yet. I don't have access to it either, but according to a <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1pdynz7/proton_sheets_the_privacyfirst_alternative_to/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">comment on reddit</a>, the company is enabling access to all users this week., Microsoft is shoving Copilot into every nook and cranny, and Google is integrating Gemini everywhere. It's nice to see a privacy-friendly alternative sans AI. For those of you who want an offline office suite, take a look at <a href="https://www.libreoffice.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">LibreOffice</a>. It is free, open source, and is available for Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/08/proton-sheets-is-an-end-to-end-encrypted-alternative-for-google-sheets/" data-wpel-link="internal">Proton Sheets is an end-to-end encrypted alternative for Google Sheets</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
New Outlook for Windows is reportedly not starting anymore for some users

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:55:10 -0000

Microsoft introduced the new Outlook email client for Windows some time ago and cut access to two dedicated apps in the process. Despite heavy criticism, which focused mostly on limited functionality of […]

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Microsoft introduced <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2023/06/17/say-goodbye-to-windows-mail-and-calendar-app-and-welcome-the-new-outlook-for-windows/" data-wpel-link="internal">the new Outlook email client for Windows</a> some time ago and cut access to two dedicated apps in the process. Despite heavy criticism, which focused mostly on limited functionality of the new client <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2024/01/12/proton-mail-says-that-the-new-outlook-app-for-windows-is-microsofts-new-data-collection-service/" data-wpel-link="internal">and privacy</a>, Microsoft continued its path, which culminated in the automatic installation of the new client on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/01/29/latest-windows-10-update-installs-new-outlook-app-automatically/" data-wpel-link="internal">some Windows systems</a>. This happened: Reports started to emerge on various social media sites on the weekend that the new Outlook would not start anymore for some users. Attempts to start the email program are met with no reaction whatsoever. Users report that Outlook won't start anymore, which also means, that they can't access their emails anymore on their device. Martin Geuß, <a href="https://www.drwindows.de/news/neues-outlook-fuer-windows-startet-nicht-viele-nutzer-betroffen-workaround-hilft" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">over at Dr. Windows</a>, suggests that the issue is caused by the latest update for the email program. Microsoft published an update last Friday, which is also the day users started to report the issue. While Microsoft has not acknowledged the issue at this stage, users have found a workaround. However, it needs to be noted that this reportedly works only if the Microsoft account is the standard account in Outlook. Worse, any additional account that has been added to Outlook is removed as a consequence and needs to be added again. The solution, <a href="https://www.elevenforum.com/t/new-outlook-would-not-launch.42715/" data-wpel-link="external" target="_blank" rel="nofollow external noopener noreferrer">discussed here</a>, suggests to delete the following folder on the system: C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Olk Rename <username> with the name of the actual user. Note that the folder is hidden by default and that you need to enable that hidden items are shown in File Explorer. This is done in File Explorer with a click on View > Show > Hidden Items. While deleting (or renaming) the folder may be tempting, some users of the new Outlook client may also be able to access the mail accounts online for the time being. Since the issue appears widespread, it is likely that Microsoft is going to release a fix for it eventually. Another option is to use the classic Outlook desktop app, if available. It is part of Microsoft 365 and Microsoft confirmed already that it will support it until at least 2029. Now You: do you use Outlook as your email client or another app or service? Did you by chance run into the problem? Feel free to leave a comment down below. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/08/new-outlook-for-windows-is-reportedly-not-starting-anymore-for-some-users/" data-wpel-link="internal">New Outlook for Windows is reportedly not starting anymore for some users</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Chrome can now autofill your details if you're signed in to Google

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:45:38 -0000

Google has announced some autofill improvements for Chrome. The browser can now fill out your details if you are signed in to your Google account. Last month, Google introduced an option in […]

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Google has announced some autofill improvements for Chrome. The browser can now fill out your details if you are signed in to your Google account. Last month, <a href="https://blog.google/products/chrome/enhanced-autofill/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Google introduced an option</a> in Chrome that allows the browser to fill up form fields for your passport and driver license number, vehicle details such as license plate or VIN. These features are available as part of the enhanced autofill experience. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211060" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Autofill-name-email-address-in-Google-Chrome.png" alt="" width="684" height="635" /> The Mountain View company is <a href="https://blog.google/products/chrome/autofill-improvements/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">expanding this tool set</a>, Chrome can now enter your name and email address on sign up or log in pages, or when you fill up a form on a website. Google says this feature requires users to be signed in to their Google account, and the requested data is "pulled securely" as required. Chrome can also autofill your Home and Work address that you have saved to your Google account. This experience is rolling out to Chrome users on desktop, Android and iOS. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211059" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Address-autofill-in-Google-Chrome.png" alt="" width="667" height="555" /> Google Wallet is now integrated in Chrome, and can be used to autofill loyalty card numbers, travel details and vehicle information that you have saved. For example, users who are renting a car at the airport and have to provide flight information such as confirmation number and dates, can use Google Wallet to autofill the data. Google says this also works with insurance quotes, car rentals. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211058" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-car-rental-autofill.png" alt="" width="720" height="720" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-car-rental-autofill.png 720w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-car-rental-autofill-300x300.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /> Autofill in Google Wallet is available in Chrome on desktop and Android. Users can save vehicle details to and from Wallet from Chrome on desktop. These features require enhanced autofill to be enabled in the browser. While we are on the topic of traveling, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/18/google-expands-flight-deals-to-more-countries-and-agentic-booking-to-u-s-users/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Google Flights is now available in more Countries</a>. On Android, Chrome will display two-lines of autofill suggestions instead of just one, to allow users to choose the option they want. Google says Chrome now recognize address fields in different parts of the world, and fill them with accurate data. To manage your Home, Work Address and other contact information, that is saved to your Google account, head to this page: <a href="https://myaccount.google.com/personal-info" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">https://myaccount.google.com/personal-info</a>. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211061" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-Enhanced-Autofill-enable-or-disable.png" alt="" width="1200" height="775" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-Enhanced-Autofill-enable-or-disable.png 1200w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Google-Chrome-Enhanced-Autofill-enable-or-disable-768x496.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> It is worth noting that Enhanced Autofill is disabled by default. Want to enable it? Go to Chrome's Settings, and click on Autofill or open this in a new tab <a href="chrome://settings/autofill" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">chrome://settings/autofill</a>, Select Enhanced Autofill and toggle it. Then, click on the add button and select one of the following options: Driving license, known traveler number, Passport, Redress number, Vehicle. You will then be able to save the information, which in turn will be available for autofill when you need it. A <a href="https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/142893?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop#zippy=%2Cturn-on-enhanced-autofill" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">support page</a> on Google's website says, "When you visit a website with a form, the site’s URL and content may be shared with Google. Google uses this info to provide you with better autofill suggestions and improve enhanced autofill." Most password managers offer such autofill options, without requesting site data to be shared. Do you use autofill for entering personal data? Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/08/chrome-can-now-autofill-your-details-if-youre-signed-in-to-google/" data-wpel-link="internal">Chrome can now autofill your details if you're signed in to Google</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.
Netflix acquires Warner Bros. for $83 billion

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:26:55 -0000

Netflix has announced that it is acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. The deal is worth $82.7 Billion. This is a massive acquisition considering that Warner Bros. has tons of big name IPs […]

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Netflix has announced that it is acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. The deal is worth $82.7 Billion. This is a massive acquisition considering that Warner Bros. has tons of big name IPs including the DC Comics universe, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones to name a few. Now, the most obvious question is, what's going to happen to <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/10/23/hbo-max-plan-prices-increased-again/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">HBO Max</a>? Will Netflix let it continue as a separate service? Or will the content from it be merged into Netflix's platform? If the latter happens, it could result in a price increase for Netflix plans. <a href="https://about.netflix.com/en/news/netflix-to-acquire-warner-bros" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow external noreferrer" data-wpel-link="external">Netflix's announcement</a> states that HBO and HBO Max "provide a compelling, complementary offering for consumers. Netflix expects to maintain Warner Bros. current operations and build on its strengths, including theatrical releases for films." <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-211053" src="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Netflix-Warner-Bros-Discovery.png" alt="" width="1000" height="274" srcset="https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Netflix-Warner-Bros-Discovery.png 1000w, https://www.ghacks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Netflix-Warner-Bros-Discovery-768x210.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> (Image courtesy: Netflix) This is a sound business strategy. While merging Max and Netflix even at a slightly higher cost might attract more users, it could have an adverse effect on the current user base. It is way more profitable to let both platforms continue independently, which is what they are planning. And not releasing movies in theaters would be a financial disaster, so it's good that they are not making movies "Netflix-only". Netflix will also gain access to WB Games, and its plethora of studios such as Traveller's Tales which made the Lego Games, Rocksteady Studios which developed the Batman Arkham series, NetherRealm Studios of Mortal Kombat fame, Avalanche Software which made Hogwarts Legacy. Sure they had some flops like Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, but they had way more hits. It would be interesting to see the future of WB Games. Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is coming in 2026, but I'd love to see a new Batman Arkham game, while Arkham Origins, Asylum, and City were great, Arkham Knight was incredible. Hogwarts Legacy 2 is also said to be under development. FYI, <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/11/25/spotifys-premium-plan-is-about-to-get-a-price-hike-in-the-u-s/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">Spotify will soon get a price hike </a>in the U.S., because music labels are not happy with the low prices of Spotify and Netflix as opposed to the competition. So, there is a chance we could see a Netflix price hike too. And in case you missed it, the streaming service <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/02/netflix-no-longer-lets-you-cast-from-phones-to-most-tvs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-wpel-link="internal">no longer lets users cast from phones</a>. Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery is expected to be completed in 2026, after approval from antitrust authorities. Thank you for being a Ghacks reader. The post <a href="https://www.ghacks.net/2025/12/08/netflix-acquires-warner-bros-for-83-billion/" data-wpel-link="internal">Netflix acquires Warner Bros. for $83 billion</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.ghacks.net" data-wpel-link="internal">gHacks Technology News</a>.