Search results for 'Features' - Page: 5
| PC World - 21 Sep (PC World)Yesterday, Microsoft announced in a blog post that Windows App has finally been released to the general public and is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and web browsers.
In a nutshell, Windows App is a “unified experience” that lets you securely connect to a Windows device from any other supported device. It’s a simplified way to connect via Windows 365, Azure Virtual Desktop, Remote Desktop, Remote Desktop Services, or Microsoft Dev Box. That means on most platforms you’ll end up replacing whatever remote desktop app you’re using with Windows App.
But that’s not all it does. Windows App a few more tricks up its sleeve that makes it a nifty tool for both IT professionals and home users.
What can Windows App do?
Windows App is ultimately aiming to be a one-stop shop for efficiently managing the content on your connected Windows devices. According to Microsoft, it’s also fitted with advanced security functions so you can work securely from any location and still have peace of mind.
In the blog post, Microsoft shared one user’s experience with Windows App and what they thought of it:
“We’ve been using Windows App through the private and public previews, and we were given the opportunity to submit recommendations for feature enhancements to ensure it has the functionality we need. During our recent go live, we received great feedback: it provides seamless access from any device and massively improves our end-user experience.”
Suppose you’re commuting to work or traveling on vacation but you need to read or edit important documents on your PC. Windows App makes it easy to remote in and access those files in a snap.
Other features include:
Unified access to multiple Windows services from one interface (including cloud PCs, virtual desktops, and local PCs)
Multi-factor authentication
Customizable start screens
Support for multiple monitors and dynamic resolutions
USB redirection
Optimizations for Microsoft Teams
Easy account switching via Microsoft Entra ID
Relayed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Shortpath
In-app feedback function
How to download Windows App
Windows App is now available via the respective app stores for each device platform. Microsoft recommends that IT administrators use the “Get started with Windows App” documentation to update internal processes and guide users and helpdesk teams.
If you want to use the app privately and have a Windows device, you can simply download Windows App on the Microsoft Store. You can also access Windows App directly in a web browser for a seamless connection without having to install any software. Windows App is also available on the Google Play Store and on the Apple App Store.
Note that Windows App can only be used with Microsoft accounts and suitable cloud services, and not with third-party services.
Further reading: The best remote desktop software, compared Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 21 Sep (PC World)Console gamers have a leg up on PC gamers when it comes to ease of use. Turn it on and your settings are mostly chosen for you with little fuss. From game to game, the overall experience is standardized — no need to worry if your PlayStation 5 can handle the latest releases.
As PC gamers, we may have more options, but that comes at a cost. There’s a real learning curve when it comes to configuring hardware and software to run games optimally, and developers have to play it safer as they’re forced to support a much wider range of specs. A game might not run on a given CPU and GPU combo, or if it does, it may run poorly.
Enter the Nvidia App, the successor that combines both Nvidia Control Panel and Nvidia GeForce Experience into one cohesive tool that simplifies configuration options for GeForce gamers.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
If you’re the kind of gamer who frequently dives into game settings and makes tweaks to boost performance, the Nvidia App is for you. You can fine tune basic settings (like resolution and graphical fidelity) up to more advanced options (like Nvidia’s DLSS).
Related: What is Nvidia’s DLSS 3? Explained
Of course, you’ll need an Nvidia GPU to make use of the Nvidia App. And depending on the age and model of your GPU, certain features may or may not be available to you. Even so, the Nvidia App really helps to streamline the PC gaming experience.
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
The most interesting part of the Nvidia, at least for me, is the unified GPU control center that offers unparalleled control over GPU settings.
As of this writing, the Nvidia App is still in beta. If you want to try it, just hop over to the download page and install it for free. It’s eventually replacing GeForce Experience, so you might as well get a head start!
Keep reading for some of the most crucial and impactful Nvidia App settings you need to know about, which are worth tweaking for the best PC gaming experience available to GeForce gamers right now.
Tip #1: Auto-optimize in-game settings
One cool feature of the Nvidia App is that it can analyze your PC hardware (e.g., CPU, GPU, display), then tap into the cloud to determine the best in-game settings for your system. Even if you’re tech-savvy, it’s a great way to establish a starting point for each game.
In the Graphics section of the Nvidia App, scan your library of installed games to automatically populate the list. Then, select the game you want to optimize and click the Optimize button at the top right:
If I click the Optimize button, the Nvidia App will optimize Lies of P for me.
If I click the Optimize button, the Nvidia App will optimize Lies of P for me.Thiago Trevisan / IDG
If I click the Optimize button, the Nvidia App will optimize Lies of P for me.Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Once a game has been optimized, you’ll be shown a convenient slider that lets you adjust how you want the game tweaked, with a spectrum starting with Performance on the left and Quality on the right. It’s a lot like how consoles have dual modes for games, except here you can achieve the same but with greater granularity.
Let me show you a real example using Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut. After optimizing, I moved my slider to the Quality end. (For context, my test PC is running an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 GPU with games at 4K resolution.) Here it is:
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
The Nvidia App automatically chose the settings and options that I would have chosen if I wanted to maximize Quality to the extent supported by my system hardware. For example, it set the graphics to Very High. (In other games, it might’ve chosen Ultra if available.) It also turned on Nvidia RTX: DLSS Frame Generation, but went with Nvidia’s DLAA for anti-aliasing instead of DLSS. It also opted to enable Nvidia Reflex for lower latency coupled with the frame generation.
Related: How Nvidia Reflex can make you better at esports
The resulting frame rates hit well above 60 FPS for this game, averaging close to 80 FPS with these settings. Overall gameplay was smooth and graphics looked gorgeous. The only manual tweak I even considered making was to switch out DLAA for extra frames.
Related: What is Nvidia’s DLAA and how does it work?
The Nvidia App also provides a neat visual on the optimization page that shows current values and a preview of recommended values. This can help you fine tune the slider to reach a balanced set of settings that work for you. While not every game is supported, Nvidia is regularly updating the app with more gaming profiles.
Tip #2: RTX HDR and Dynamic Vibrance
The Global Settings panel in the Nvidia App
The Global Settings panel in the Nvidia AppThiago Trevisan / IDG
The Global Settings panel in the Nvidia AppThiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Individual in-game settings are great, but Nvidia also offers some global settings that apply to all your games. Found in the same “Graphics” section of the app, click the Global Settings tab.
Here you can enable features like RTX Dynamic Vibrance, which uses AI to increase image clarity. It works differently depending on which game you’re in, but it always aims to give you a more vibrant look without distorting the colors too much.
RTX Dynamic Vibrance description in the Nvidia App
RTX Dynamic Vibrance description in the Nvidia AppThiago Trevisan / IDG
RTX Dynamic Vibrance description in the Nvidia AppThiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Another option you can enable in the Global Settings panel is RTX HDR, which can add HDR to games that don’t normally support it.
Windows 11 has a built-in feature called Auto HDR, but it can be hit or miss. Meanwhile, Nvidia’s RTX HDR uses AI to apply an HDR filter to any and all games (and it’s compatible with DirectX and Vulkan).
RTX HDR settings in the Nvidia App
RTX HDR settings in the Nvidia AppThiago Trevisan / IDG
RTX HDR settings in the Nvidia AppThiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
What I recommend is to enable HDR in Windows settings but leave Auto HDR disabled. (Those two things are different.) You’ll also want to disable in-game HDR settings so that RTX HDR can do its job.
You may have to further tweak and try different combinations to get the best results, but it’s nice to have additional options with RTX HDR.
Tip #3: Use the performance overlay
A performance overlay is an essential tool that should be in every gamer’s toolbox. Back when MSI Afterburner was more active, it was the go-to performance overlay app — but now that it has fallen by the wayside with a recent lack of updates, the Nvidia App can help fill the gap.
The Nvidia App has its own integrated performance overlay feature that can help you keep tabs on what’s going on as you game. With it enabled, you can analyze in real time how certain tweaks and changes to settings actually affect in-game FPS performance.
The performance overlay feature in the Nvidia App
The performance overlay feature in the Nvidia AppNvidia
The performance overlay feature in the Nvidia AppNvidia
Nvidia
It can also be helpful for monitoring your system health and temperatures. For example, if a ray tracing setting has your GPU running wild, you may want to tweak it and see what happens to performance. Similarly, toggling resolution scalers (like DLSS) can also have an impact on how much your CPU is taxed. All of this can even help inform whether parts of your PC are in need of being upgraded.
To turn on the performance overlay in the Nvidia App, simply press the Alt + R hotkey. (Keep in mind that the Alt + Z hotkey opens other overlay features, such as ShadowPlay discussed below in the next tip.)
With the performance overlay active, you can choose which statistics are shown during gameplay. For example, you can opt to have only the frame rate, GPU utilization, temperature, and clock displayed. More technical details, like GPU voltage, could also be helpful to know.
Related: How to benchmark your GPU
Average PC latency and other latency-related metrics can be instrumental for getting a glimpse of how your system is performing, and it could show you whether you’d benefit from global settings like Low Latency Mode.
Nvidia’s other performance-tracking app: FrameView
Nvidia’s other performance-tracking app: FrameViewNvidia
Nvidia’s other performance-tracking app: FrameViewNvidia
Nvidia
Note that Nvidia also has another app called FrameView, which can be downloaded separately and integrated into the Nvidia App. FrameView also provides details on system metrics and average frame rates.
This combination of FrameView and Nvidia App can be helpful when playing in different areas of certain games, to see the impact on hardware performance when a game doesn’t have a built-in benchmark.
Tip #4: Record and stream gameplay
With the Nvidia App, you don’t need a separate third-party program to record your gameplay or take screenshots. To do so, bring up the integrated in-game overlay using the Alt + Z hotkey.
Called Nvidia ShadowPlay, it lets you capture 8K screenshots, record GIFs, and even create an instant replay reel based on the last 30 seconds of gameplay. Video recording can go as high as 8K at 30 FPS with HDR (with more standard resolutions able to go even higher).
The ShadowPlay overlay in the Nvidia App
The ShadowPlay overlay in the Nvidia AppNvidia
The ShadowPlay overlay in the Nvidia AppNvidia
Nvidia
These are very useful features, not just for recording and sharing gameplay with viewers and/or friends, but also for analyzing graphics and performance when you review the footage later.
There’s also a Broadcast feature in the Nvidia App that allows you to livestream gameplay to popular platforms including Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live. Camera and custom graphic overlays are possible with Broadcast, and it’s quick to get up and running once you’re acquainted.
Of course, you can always choose to use those other third-party streaming apps that have a lot of the same (or more) functionality, but it’s nice to know this is a viable option in the Nvidia App.
Tip #5: Manage your drivers
Nvidia’s previous GeForce Experience was meant to be an easier way to update and manage your drivers. The Nvidia App, as its replacement, aims to do a lot of the same except better.
You can choose between Game Ready or Studio drivers, and the Nvidia App will automatically populate when driver updates are available. (GPU driver updates often contain myriad bug fixes, new features, and general improvements, so it’s smart to keep on top of them.)
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
Thiago Trevisan / IDG
One key improvement in the Nvidia App is more driver information readily available in the app itself. For example, you can see details regarding things like what was changed and which games were affected. General fixes, even ones addressing the Nvidia App itself, are also listed under the “What’s Fixed” area of the Drivers section.
Driver management in the Nvidia App even lets you know when a new optimization profile is available for a particular game, which is great if you’re waiting to optimize something in your library. The most saliant information, though, might just be the “Game Ready For” area that shows the newest titles that just got their Game Ready drivers.
All in all, there’s a lot worth exploring in the Nvidia App even though it’s still technically in beta. If you haven’t jumped on it yet, consider giving it a go — it’s already packed with features that’ll improve your gaming.
Further reading: Settings every PC gamer should tweak ASAP Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 20 Sep (PC World)Windows licenses cost a lot—almost to the point of pain. Paying $139 for Windows 11 Home or $200 for Windows 11 Pro feels exorbitant when Linux is free, especially when that much money is easily a third of a budget PC build. Yet with less developer support for Linux, Windows is an inescapable necessity for most of us.
What’s not a given is paying full retail. Yes, it’s possible to snag a discount on Windows 11. How much you’ll save depends on how much hassle you can tolerate—as well as your circumstances. If you’re lucky, you could technically get it for free. Legitimately for free, since installing Windows without ever activating it doesn’t count as a full, sanctioned copy of the software.
Here’s how, in several different ways. Better yet, these strategies often apply for Windows 10 licenses too, although that operating system will stop receiving updates in 2025.
Simple upgrade: Trade up from Windows 10 to Windows 11
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Price: Free
If you want to switch to Windows 11, you don’t need to pay to upgrade from Windows 10. You can make the jump for free.
You can only trade up to the same kind of edition, however. So if your license is for Windows 10 Home, you’ll move up to Windows 11 Home. Likewise if you have a Pro license.
Our Windows 11 upgrade checklist breaks down the steps for an easy transition, but in a nutshell:
Verify that your PC meets Windows 11’s requirements.
Run either the Windows 11 installation assistant or create Windows 11 installation media for a clean install.
If performing a clean install of Windows 11, match your edition type (Home or Pro) to what you had in Windows 10.
Also, if you choose a clean install, ensure you have your Windows 10 license key on hand, in case your hardware isn’t automatically recognized and you need to manually activate Windows. Not sure what your key is? Run a program like Magical Jelly Bean Product KeyFinder in Windows 10. (Our step-by-step guide explains how it works.)
Wondering what happened to the free upgrades from Windows 7 or 8/8.1 to Windows 10? Unfortunately, Microsoft finally shut that down in September 2023.
Easiest discount: An OEM license
OEM licenses are available for both digital downloads and old-school DVD copies of Windows.
OEM licenses are available for both digital downloads and old-school DVD copies of Windows.PCWorld
OEM licenses are available for both digital downloads and old-school DVD copies of Windows.PCWorld
PCWorld
Price: $120 (Windows 11 Home), $160 (Windows 11 Pro)
Our next suggestion is a method that’s available to everyone and has the least amount of hassle: purchasing an OEM license.
License types are different than operating system versions. They dictate what you can do with the software, while OS versions are distinguished by the features available. Multiple Windows license types exist, but the two commonly available to a home user are the retail and OEM varieties.
Get windows 11 pro for cheap in pcworld`s software store
Windows 11 Pro
Buying Windows 11 from Microsoft’s website or from a brick-and-mortar store gets you the retail license. If you visit an online retailer like AmazonRemove non-product link or Newegg, you can find both retail and OEM licenses for sale. You can usually spot an OEM license by its price, which tend to go for $120 for a Windows 11 Home license and $160 for a Windows 11 Pro license—though you can grab them for less during periodic sales.
All the features of the operating system version are the same for both license types. The difference is that with a retail license, you can transfer the license key to a different PC later on.
The process for activating a Windows 11 OEM license is the same as for a retail license.
The process for activating a Windows 11 OEM license is the same as for a retail license.PCWorld
The process for activating a Windows 11 OEM license is the same as for a retail license.PCWorld
PCWorld
You can’t do that with an OEM license. In exchange for a lower price, you get to use the license key on only one PC, period. If you build a system, and then put together a replacement one four years later, you can’t transfer the license to the new machine.
Also, if the hardware used to identify your system fails—namely, the motherboard—Microsoft’s registration servers won’t recognize your license as valid after you replace the dead part. Microsoft has historically been kind about such situations, however. You can usually call to reactivate the license after replacing a fried mobo. But it is an extra hassle.
For further savings through a retailer, you’ll have to wait for a sale or Black Friday, when you can get an OEM license in the neighborhood of $85 (Windows Home) to $120 (Windows Pro).
Otherwise, you can pick up a cheaper license through PCWorld’s very own software store. (Yes, that’s really us, and yes, the licenses are legit.) We’re currently selling Windows 11 Home licenses for $60, and Windows 11 Pro licenses for $80, with Windows 10 options also available. Sometimes we even put them on sale!
Deepest savings: The education discount
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Price: $0 (Windows 11 Education)
Not all student discounts are reserved for the under-24 set. Your local community college might be a source for a free or extremely discounted copy of Windows—and nearly the equivalent of Windows Enterprise, to boot. You’ll just have to put in some legwork (perhaps literally) to get it.
As mentioned above, license types determine what you can do with Windows—and who can use it, as well. Through the Academic Volume Licensing agreements, schools can purchase access to Windows 11 or 10 Education for their students, faculty, and staff. Some make it available only on campus machines. Others will grant a license for use on a home machine.
In that latter camp are a number of community colleges, and they often make the Windows license free. The catch: You have to sign up for at least one course to qualify for campus discounts.
Not every community college offers free or discounted Windows 11 licenses, but many do. (Website pictured here: Pasadena City College, located in California.)
Not every community college offers free or discounted Windows 11 licenses, but many do. (Website pictured here: Pasadena City College, located in California.)PCWorld
Not every community college offers free or discounted Windows 11 licenses, but many do. (Website pictured here: Pasadena City College, located in California.)PCWorld
PCWorld
To get access to the software, you should register for your class first. Afterward, find the download information for your campus’s download method. Verification of student status is typically required before the installation file becomes available.
A one-unit class usually counts though, and depending on your state, it can cost as little as $80 including administrative fees. You’ll often find one-unit classes offered by the physical education or dance departments (swim, ballet, jazz, boot camp workouts, etc.), but you can also find the occasional class on topics like Beginning Drawing, Intro to HTML & CSS, and Video for the Web.
If you were already planning on taking a class in one of these subjects, you’re getting an amazing deal. The Education edition of Windows, which is similar to the Enterprise edition, includes popular Windows Pro features like Bitlocker encryption and the Sandbox feature. You’re essentially getting Windows Pro (and then some) for as much as 60 percent off—and you get to learn something new.
Windows 11 Pro’s Bitlocker feature makes encrypting a drive a very easy process.
Windows 11 Pro’s Bitlocker feature makes encrypting a drive a very easy process.
PCWorld
Windows 11 Pro’s Bitlocker feature makes encrypting a drive a very easy process.
PCWorld
PCWorld
Even if you aren’t interested in the classes, you’re still paying considerably less than what you would for even a Windows Pro OEM license. We don’t encourage truancy, but there’s nothing saying you have to show up for class, so long as you’re comfortable with a failing grade on your record.
Obviously, if your local community college doesn’t have an agreement with Microsoft in place, this strategy won’t work. Also, if the total cost of the class, administrative fees, and license fee adds up to more than the retail cost of a Windows Pro license, and you wouldn’t have otherwise taken the class, that negates this deal, too. In those cases, your main options are the OEM license (outlined above) or buying through a reseller (detailed below).
Note: If you use this method, also keep an eye out for other software deals through your school. For example, your school might offer a free Microsoft 365 account, or a heavily discounted Adobe Creative Cloud account (usually $20 per month, but we’ve seen it for as little as $90 per year).
Low prices with a big caveat: Resellers
PCWorld
PCWorld
PCWorld
Price: Under $30 (Windows 11 Home and Pro)
Scoring Windows 11 at an 85-percent discount (or more) is possible, and it’s not even difficult. But this approach comes with a salt mine of caution.
Platforms like eBay and Kinguin allow buyers to purchase product keys from third-party sellers. Some sites, like Kinguin, specialize in digital software sales—to buy Windows, you’ll find the listings for Windows 11 or 10 Home (or Windows 11 or 10 Pro), pick a seller from the list, then add their product to your cart and check out.
What makes the license keys so cheap is that they’re gray market at best. In other words, the keys aren’t illegal, but they’re likely extras from a volume licensing agreement and not meant to be sold individually to home users. So they come with risk. Critics of this method rightly point out that you can buy keys that don’t work, or eventually lose their activation status because of their unknown origins. And that has happened to some people. Customer service is often poor for these kinds of sites, too, leaving you high and dry.
Fans of this method say many people never run into issues, and in fact urge you to find the keys as cheap as possible (usually through eBay) to minimize problems. You can also buy with a credit card for some added protection. If you go this route, you should only get Windows Pro keys. The cost difference is often negligible from Home and you get better features like Bitlocker encryption and other Pro features.
But what we actually recommend is to buy through reputable sources of cheaper keys instead. For example, some professional organizations are able to negotiate deals for their members—we suggest starting there. You can also check to see if your favorite media sites have special pricing for readers. PCWorld’s own software store is a good source—it offers Windows Home and Pro keys at sizable discounts (often it’s regularly as low as $60 for Home and $80 for Pro), and the keys are guaranteed to work. Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | ITBrief - 20 Sep (ITBrief)Oracle unveils Java 23, boasting numerous enhancements and new features aimed at boosting productivity, performance, and innovation for developers. Read...Newslink ©2024 to ITBrief | |
| | | PC World - 20 Sep (PC World)In a world where the internet is practically our second home, it’s baffling how traditional browsers still feel like relics of a simpler time. They’re built for the old days of occasional Googling and maybe a cheeky bit of online shopping, not for the digital jugglers we’ve all become. Enter Shift, a browser that doesn’t just keep up with how we use the web today – it redefines it.
Shift isn’t just another run-of-the-mill browser. It’s more like the command center for your online life, crafted with the modern user in mind. Whether you’re managing multiple accounts, drowning in tabs, or just trying to stay organized, Shift molds itself to your digital habits, making your online experience smoother, more efficient, and decidedly less stressful than ever before.
Why Do We Need Customization from Our Browsers?
The internet isn’t just for quick searches or checking emails anymore. It’s where we work, play, and organize every aspect of our lives. The problem? Traditional browsers weren’t built for that. Their design reflects an old-school internet, and we’re left to fit into their rigid structure. Our brains are picking up the slack for browsers when it comes to organization, efficiency, and multitasking: this is cognitive load. Cognitive load refers to the total mental effort we use when completing tasks – and believe me, a cluttered browser is a huge contributor to that load.
Think about how many tabs you open in a day, or how often you’re forced to switch between accounts. Every extra second spent trying to find the right tab or navigating back and forth between accounts increases cognitive load. It’s a recipe for frustration and burnout, especially when you’re already juggling a packed schedule. We need browsers to do more than just display websites – we need them to help us manage the chaos. That’s where Shift comes in.
The Shift from Chaos to Control
Shift is not just another browser. It’s a command center, built for how we actually use the web. Browsing is no longer a passive experience, it’s a multi-tasking minefield where we’re constantly switching between tasks, emails, apps, and websites. What makes Shift stand out is its ability to organize all these moving parts and make our complicated digital lives feel simpler (and much easier to manage).
Shift
Shift
Shift
With Shift, you’re not dealing with a dozen unorganized tabs and windows. Instead, you create custom workspaces for every facet of your online life. Whether you’re managing work projects, side hustles, personal tasks, or even just your social feeds, Shift lets you set up dedicated spaces tailored to each. No more tab chaos, no more app juggling, and – best of all – no more stress. It’s designed to cut down on cognitive load, which means you’re able to stay focused and productive without burning out.
Navigating the Mess of Modern Browsing
Let’s face it, the way we browse the web now is nothing short of chaotic. Between the 25 tabs you’ve left open “just in case,” the constant notifications dragging you back to check Slack, and the endless task of logging in and out of multiple accounts, it’s amazing that we manage to get anything done. Traditional browsers? They’re just adding fuel to the fire. They weren’t built to help us juggle this mess.
But Shift gets it. This is the browser that knows what we’re up against and gives us the tools to make sense of it all. Imagine opening your browser and instead of a wild tangle of tabs, you see neatly organized workspaces for every project, task, or distraction. Shift turns what used to be a scattered, disorganized experience into a streamlined, seamless experience.
Shift
Shift
Shift
Workspaces are just the beginning, though. Shift takes customization to a whole new level. Sure, traditional browsers let you change a theme or drag your bookmarks around, but Shift lets you tailor your entire browsing experience to work for you, not against you. You can manage tabs more effectively, keep your apps front and center, and even control how and when you get notifications.
Features That Help You Do It All
What makes Shift browser truly a game changer is its integration of over 1,500 apps. That’s right – no more jumping between different platforms or logging in and out of multiple accounts. Shift lets you integrate everything, from Gmail and Slack to your favorite apps for streaming, banking, planning, chatting – you name it – and keeps it all right there in your workspace.
Shift
Shift
Shift
Once you’ve got your apps set up, Shift allows you to pin them in a sidebar, creating a one-stop shop for your most-used tools. Need to check your emails while keeping an eye on a shared document? No problem. Want to toggle between your work and personal social accounts without opening a new window? Sorted. Shift makes it possible to manage everything from one place – saving you time and, more importantly, mental energy.
Beyond apps, Shift revolutionizes how we manage our bookmarks. Instead of stuffing them all into one messy toolbar, you can create customized bookmark bars for each of your workspaces. Whether you’re knee-deep in a research project or need quick access to personal websites, your bookmarks stay focused and clutter-free. That means less time spent searching, and more time actually getting stuff done.
But Shift doesn’t stop there. It also integrates all your calendars into one unified view. Whether you’re a Google Calendar fan or loyal to Outlook, Shift brings them together seamlessly. No more bouncing between tabs or wondering if you’ve double-booked yourself. Shift helps you stay on top of your schedule without the stress.
Tackling Cognitive Overload with Notifications Control
Another key area where Shift excels is notifications. In a world where our attention is constantly being pulled in different directions, managing notifications is critical. With Shift’s advanced notification settings, you decide when and how you want to be interrupted. Customize everything from which notifications come through to when they’re allowed to disturb you. Shift even has “quiet hours,” perfect for when you need to focus without distractions. It’s another way Shift helps reduce cognitive load and helps you stay in control.
For those of us managing multiple email accounts – whether for work, personal use, or side projects – Shift’s email management tools are a lifesaver. Instead of jumping between tabs or logging in and out of different accounts, Shift lets you access all your emails in one place. This doesn’t just save you time, it saves your mental bandwidth, helping you manage communications more efficiently.
Customization: The Future of Browsing
At the heart of Shift’s appeal is its unparalleled level of customization. Unlike traditional browsers that make you work around their limitations, Shift lets you craft an experience built around how you use the web. Each workspace can be customized with the apps, bookmarks, and notifications you need for different tasks, making it easier to manage distractions and stay productive. Shift’s focus on customization turns what used to be a digital free-for-all into an organized, controlled experience.
By integrating apps, streamlining notifications, and unifying your calendars, Shift helps you cut down on mental clutter and focus on what matters. Its deep customization features transform your browser into a powerful productivity tool that keeps your online life neatly organized and easily accessible.
Time to Make the Shift, Literally
Shift
Shift
Shift
If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated with the limitations of traditional browsers, it’s time to give Shift a try. With its focus on customization and user-centric design, Shift offers a browsing experience that’s tailored to how you actually use the internet. It’s not just a browser—it’s a platform that adapts to your needs, helping you navigate the complexities of the online world with ease.
So why settle for a one-size-fits-all browser when you can have one that’s designed specifically for you? For more information or to start your free trial, visit Shift. Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 20 Sep (PC World)At a glanceExpert`s Rating
ProsGreat day and night capturesAffordably pricedSleek styling and mountConsRequires an 70Mai account to activate the camera before useNo USB mass storage function for fast bulk offloadsOur VerdictThe M500 is a fantastic front-only dash cam with great captures and sleek looks. But 70Mai’s insistence that you create an account to use it leaves us unamused.
Best Prices Today: 70Mai M500 dash cam
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70Mai makes unusually attractive, cleverly designed dash cams that invariably take great captures. Such is the M500 reviewed here. I really want to love it. But having to hand over my email to a Shanghai company I know little about to activate the camera definitely cooled my ardor.
What are the 70Mai M500’s features?
The M500 is a sleek, good-looking, single-channel dash that takes great captures and has an unusual top resolution of 2592×1944. Yup, 4:3, though you can knock the vertical resolution down if you absolutely must have 16:9. You will lose some detail though.
A unique sticky mount is provided that the 3.3-ounce, approximately 4×1-inch camera slides into, as you can see in the images. There are arrows on both the camera and mount to ease the process and make sure you have the lens facing forward. There are few other distinguishing features — which is handier than it might sound.
Further reading: See our roundup of the best dash cams to learn about competing products.
The lens of the 70Mai M500.
The lens of the 70Mai M500.
The lens of the 70Mai M500.
The M500 has GPS on board, uses internal eMMC memory (32GB to 128GB depending on SKU), and its field of view is a whopping 170 degrees. There’s a 500Mah battery, but 70Mai warns that this only allows the camera to run for 15 seconds or so. That’s long enough in most cases to catch any post-power shenanigans, so good enough.
There’s exactly one multi-function button (power/Wi-Fi/lock video) on the left of the M500, with the only other notable feature being the Type-C port on the right side. Dash cam minimalism. Nice.
Obviously, this means adjusting settings (parking mode, compression, g-sensor sensitivity, watermarking, time zone, etc.) and other operations (viewing, offloading,) are handled by an app (shown below). I should mention that the M500 automatically set the correct time using GPS info. A nice touch many vendors miss.
70Mai warranties the M500 for one year (two in the EU), which is about average for the dash cam field. That said, you’ll see Amazon no-names that are guaranteed for only 90 days.
Really, 70Mai?
Though I’ve already mentioned it, it bears repeating. One thing I really don’t like about the otherwise clever and most excellent M500 is that you must create an account and access it to activate the camera.
No recordings take place until you do. Sorry, a dash cam should start recording when you plug it in and you should be able to connect to it and adjust settings without any further ado. You bought it, it’s yours. Period.
As a piece of hardware, the M500 is in the top tier of dash cams I’ve reviewed. The captures are excellent and the GPS is the icing on the cake.
To see whether I’m simply being curmudgeonly in my protestation, I asked a variety of friends — young and old — what they thought of the activation-before-use deal. To a person, they found 70Mai’s approach intrusive. A couple said no way they’d buy one.
My other peeve isn’t nearly as serious, and that’s that you can’t just plug the M500 into a computer as USB mass storage to offload the videos. You must first offload them to your phone using the app, then share them from there if you have the desire. This is needlessly time-consuming and tedious — especially if you want to edit or process them.
How much is the 70Mai M500?
The M500 comes in three flavors: 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB for $90, $100, and $110 respectively. Given that the high-resolution video consumes approximately 200MB per minute, I recommend that you buy as much capacity as you can. Of course, I recommend that for any dash cam.
How are the 70Mai M500’s captures?
So the lead should tell you this, but they’re great! The HDR color is accurate, there’s lots of detail and the camera handles mixed lighting conditions very well. There is some mild fish-eye, but it’s hardly debilitating. Headlight flare is handled well at night, and there are no motion artifacts such as jiggling, tearing, or jello-ing. Bumps are handled very well.
Given that this was a very bright day, the M500 handled the diverse lighting conditions very well. There’s also very good detail.
Given that this was a very bright day, the M500 handled the diverse lighting conditions very well. There’s also very good detail.
Given that this was a very bright day, the M500 handled the diverse lighting conditions very well. There’s also very good detail.
Below is shown as tough a scenario you can have at night: staring directly at a street light. But the 70Mai M500 handled it fantastically — still showing tons of detail in the surrounding areas.
This is as tough a scenario as you can have at night — staring directly at a street light. But the 70Mai M500 handled it great.
This is as tough a scenario as you can have at night — staring directly at a street light. But the 70Mai M500 handled it great.
This is as tough a scenario as you can have at night — staring directly at a street light. But the 70Mai M500 handled it great.
As purely a piece of hardware, the M500 is in the top tier of dash cams I’ve reviewed. The captures are excellent and the GPS is the icing on the cake.
Should you buy the 70Mai M500?
Geez, I wish I could answer this question with an unqualified yes, as the M500 is a heck of a nice piece of hardware, or kit as the British say. But I just can’t get past the fork-over-your-info-to-activate-online-before-use requirement. Therefore a solid 4.5 is downgraded to a 4. If this kind of thing doesn’t bother you, think of it as the former. Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 20 Sep (PC World)Whether it’s Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, the browser is the program we use on a day-to-day basis. That said, most of us continue to use the same old browser even when there are better contenders out there. New York-based The Browser Company hopes to change that with the launch of Arc.
Further reading: Arc’s new browser for Windows is too twee for me
What is Arc?
So far, challengers such as Brave, Firefox, and Tor Browser have focused primarily on privacy issues, as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are notorious for their surveillance. Arc also promises to respect privacy, but the focus is on ease of use.
Arc looks different from other browsers. The tabs and menus that used to be at the top have been moved to the side, which Arc says gives a better overview. It’s also easy to split the browser window down the middle, so you can have two sites open at once.
Another smart tool called Space lets you create different workspaces. For example, you can have a private space and a professional space — allowing you to use different bookmarks and settings.
Does Arc have AI support?
Arc also has a built-in AI feature called Max. The most interesting part is that you can ask questions and have a conversation about the website you are currently visiting. Instead of searching for the information yourself, you can ask a question and get an answer in plain text using artificial intelligence. This is of course mainly interesting for sites that contain a lot of information.
Other AI features are also in the pipeline. You should be able to click on a link and get a summary in advance, and AI should be able to rename open tabs to something more understandable. This is already available today in the Mac version of Arc.
How do I install it?
Surf to www.arc.net and click on Download Arc for Windows. Save the installation file to your desktop and click on it to start the installation.
Arc is free, and there are no paid options at the time of writing.
How do I log in?
Foundry
Foundry
Foundry
Once the installation is complete, a setup wizard will automatically launch. The first thing you need to do is create an account by entering your name, e-mail address, and a password. Accept the terms and conditions and press Create an Account. If you have already done this, select Sign in.
How do I import?
Once you’ve signed in, you’ll have a chance to import passwords, history, tabs, and more from your old browser. Select your browser, press Next and follow the instructions.
You will also be asked to activate the AI Max service and choose whether Arc should be the default browser on your computer. If you don’t want to import anything from your old browser, this is of course possible.
How do I use the AI feature?
Foundry
Foundry
Foundry
Arc’s built-in AI feature Max uses technology from Open AI and Anthropic. You can enable it during installation or do it later by clicking the Arc icon on the far left and selecting Settings, Enable Max.
To launch Arc Max, press Ctrl+F. Once you have done this, you can ask questions and discuss information on the web page you are currently visiting.
What is Space?
Foundry
Foundry
Foundry
A clever feature of Arc called Space allows you to create several different workspaces in your browser. For example, you can create one that is private and one that is related to your work or various organization events.
To create a Space, press the plus icon at the bottom left and select New Space. Give the workspace a name and theme color and press Create Space. Then right-click on a Space to, for example, change the icon and make other changes.
How Arc works
Foundry
Foundry
Foundry
1. Preferences
Open the application settings and show/hide the side menu.
2. Shortcuts
Quick shortcuts to sites you use often.
3. Bookmarks
This is where you put your favorite sites. They are called Pinned tabs and are similar to Chrome bookmarks.
4. Tabs
Here you see your open tabs. If you have split the window, both are shown.
5. History
Return to sites you have visited before.
6. Space
Switch between different workspaces (see article above)
7. New
Create new workspaces, tabs and folders.
8. Browse
Scroll forward or backward between pages you have visited.
9. Link
Enter the URL of the site you want to visit here.
10. Split the screen
Split the screen into two or more parts with this button.
11. Tools
Right-click on an item or page to bring up a tools menu. Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 20 Sep (PC World)There are many ways to organize your workstation setup, but here’s an innovative one you probably haven’t seen before: a docking station for your laptop that doubles as a monitor stand and triples as a wireless charging pad for your phone or mouse. Whoa!
Right now, this Anker USB-C Docking Station is on sale for $200 at Amazon, and that’s a great price considering that other USB-C docks — without the cool extra features — can cost more than twice that.
Note: You’ll see this dock is listed as $250, and that’s because the special deal price of $200 is only for Prime members. If you don’t have Prime, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial right now and score this discount pronto.
First things first, this thing is a USB-C dock. That means it connects to your laptop via USB-C and allows you to connect all sorts of other peripherals (e.g., monitors, keyboards, mice, etc.) to your laptop through the dock.
This particular dock is packed with ports. On the outside, you have two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, one SD and one microSD port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. On the underside, you have the USB-C port that connects it to your laptop, plus a DC input port, another USB-A port, an HDMI (4K@60Hz) port, and an Ethernet port.
All of the USB-C and USB-A ports can handle 10Gbps data transfer speeds, and as long as the dock is driven by a powerful enough wall charger, it can charge your laptop at 100W while also charging other connected devices at 45W, 7.5W, and 4.5W (depending on which USB ports they’re charging through).
The ports alone offer tons of value. But this USB-C dock is also a full-on monitor stand that brings your monitor to eye level, which helps you to maintain good posture and reduce eye strain. Plus, by lifting the monitor up, it frees up space underneath for your cables and devices, minimizing clutter and improving organization.
And the cherry on top? A wireless charging pad that’s built right into the dock. It can provide up to 10W of charging throughput (though it’s limited to 7.5W for iPhones). It kills several birds with one stone.
Honestly, this dock is brilliant — and reasonably affordable. Grab this Anker USB-C Docking Station for $200 on Amazon, and don’t forget to sign up for a free 30-day trial of Prime to score this price if you aren’t already an Amazon Prime member.
This 12-in-1 USB-C dock is a real game changerBuy now on Amazon Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | PC World - 19 Sep (PC World)TL;DR: Supermusic AI’s lifetime plan lets you personalize music creation with full control over genre, mood, and lyrics for $39.97 until September 29.
For musicians, creators, and tech enthusiasts alike, Supermusic AI Pro brings the power of music production right to your fingertips — no musical background required. With this lifetime subscription, you can dive deep into AI-generated music and customize everything from genre to mood, all within an intuitive interface designed for Mac and PC.
Supermusic AI’s customization features are where it truly shines. Unlike many other AI music generators that offer pre-made tracks with minimal tweaking, Supermusic gives you control over your track. Whether you’re crafting a jazz tune or an electronic beat, you can select from multiple genres and tailor the mood to your exact specifications.
Not only can you adjust the style, but you can also add your own lyrics or choose from AI-generated options, making it a versatile tool for all kinds of creators. Compared to other AI music platforms, Supermusic’s range of personalization is a game-changer. While other tools may lock you into rigid templates, Supermusic lets you take the reins for a more authentic sound.
Now through September 29, create your own music for only $39.97 with a lifetime subscription to Supermusic AI.
Supermusic AI: Lifetime Subscription – $39.97
See Deal
StackSocial prices subject to change. Read...Newslink ©2024 to PC World | |
| | | ITBrief - 19 Sep (ITBrief)Salesforce has released new AI-driven features in Marketing Cloud to bolster customer engagement, boost team productivity, and streamline campaigns with advanced automation. Read...Newslink ©2024 to ITBrief | |
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