Categoria: Systems

  • Windows 7 has ended support across all versions.

    Windows 7 has ended support across all versions.

    Windows 7’s long service came to an end on October 8, 2024, with the discontinuation of updates for Windows Embedded POSReady 7, signifying the final end of support for all Windows 7 versions. Similarly, Windows 10 has one more year left before facing a similar fate.

    Windows 7 was a system that made a significant impact.

    Windows 7 is fondly recalled by numerous users as one of Microsoft’s finest operating system releases. Introduced in 2009, it garnered a dedicated following for its reliability and user-friendly interface. Despite its popularity, official support for most users ceased on January 14, 2020. Nevertheless, certain specialized editions like Windows Embedded Standard 7 remained eligible for updates until October 2023.

    Windows Embedded POSReady 7, a version designed for point-of-sale systems, received an additional year of updates, enabling it to operate securely for an extended period.

    Security updates for Windows 7 have ceased following the discontinuation of extended support. Users continuing to use this outdated operating system face significant security risks without patches for critical system vulnerabilities.

    Windows 10 will soon have its main support phased out, with version 22H2 being one of the last updates. Yet, special versions like Windows 10 LTSC will receive extended critical updates, particularly for corporate users.

    LTSC versions cater to businesses seeking extended lifespan and increased reliability, reducing the need for frequent updates. Windows 10 LTSC 2021, akin to Windows 10 21H2 version, falls under this category.

    Source

  • Windows 11 KB5044380 enables you to turn off the Copilot key and includes enhancements.

    Windows 11 KB5044380 enables you to turn off the Copilot key and includes enhancements.

    Microsoft launched the KB5044380 update for Windows 11 in October 2024, provided as an optional patch for version 23H2 users, while a distinct update will be given to version 24H2 users this month.

    KB5044380 update is the main focus of the latest update.

    Users can now customize the function of the Copilot key by disabling it and assigning a new function through a new option in Customization > Text input, as long as the new application is in a secure .msix package.

    Corporate devices utilizing Microsoft Enter ID will have the Copilot key launch the Microsoft 365 app, whereas on personal computers, it will still trigger the Copilot feature.

    Even if the Copilot key is not present on certain PCs, the configuration settings may still be visible, but adjusting this option will not have any impact.

    Update Windows 11
    Imagem: stephmcblack/iStock

    Other enhancements and repairs

    The KB5044380 update introduces various significant enhancements and corrections, including the option to personalize the Copilot key.

    • A problem that caused Modern Standby to drain more battery than conserve it has been fixed, allowing the device to exit standby mode without affecting battery life negatively.
    • An issue that previously hindered users from joining meetings through Teams has been resolved, enhancing the compatibility between Microsoft Teams and Outlook.
    • Microsoft has addressed various issues, including malfunctions in multifunctional printers (MFPs), the blue screen error encountered when using virtual switches on virtual machines, and a bug in the Windows Hello PIN reset feature that prevented device access.

    A problem that caused Modern Standby to use more battery instead of saving it has been fixed, allowing the device to exit standby mode without reducing battery life.

    An issue that previously hindered users from joining meetings through Microsoft Teams has been resolved, enhancing the connection between Teams and Outlook.

    Microsoft has addressed various issues, including problems with multifunctional printers, the blue screen error when using virtual switches on virtual machines, and a bug in the Windows Hello PIN reset feature that prevented device access.

    Vulnerable drivers have been disabled to enhance system security, and WebView2 applications have been enhanced to provide better compatibility with Bluetooth and Xbox 360 devices.

    Installing the KB5044380 update – A guide

    The KB5044380 update is not mandatory and won’t be automatically installed. Users can choose to install it by going to the Windows Update section in settings and choosing the “Download and Install” option. Another option is to use the offline installer from the Microsoft Updates Catalog.

    Microsoft has not yet identified any problems with this patch, but they are closely monitoring performance and will provide further information if any issues arise.

  • iOS 18.1 is released with enhancements in Apple’s intelligence and security features.

    iOS 18.1 is released with enhancements in Apple’s intelligence and security features.

    Apple released iOS 18.1 on Monday, which improves resources in iOS 18 and introduces the initial Apple Intelligence tools, a new artificial intelligence feature.

    Models that work with iOS 18.1 and Apple Intelligence

    iOS 18.1 can be installed on iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max models, but Apple Intelligence features are exclusive to certain models.

    • iPhone 16
    • iPhone 16 Plus
    • iPhone 16 Pro
    • iPhone 16 Pro Max
    • iPhone 15 Pro
    • iPhone 15 Pro Max

    These tools will also work on iPads with A17 chips Pro or M1 (and newer models) and on Macs with M1 processors or higher.

    Limited Availability of Apple Information

    Apple Intelligence is currently limited to English language only, making it difficult for users in Brazil to access new features as they need to switch their device language to English (US). Apple plans to expand AI to other languages, including Portuguese, by early 2025.

    Apple Intelligence’s latest updates include features for assisted writing, improved Siri capabilities for recording calls and editing photos, and AI-powered email organization with priority subject identification and suggested responses.

    Apple has announced that new Apple Intelligence features will be released in December.

    Control Center configurations

    Central de comando remodelada (de novo)
    Imagem: GernotBra/iStock

    Apple has updated Control Center in iOS 18, allowing users to customize it. The new iOS 18.1 further enhances this feature by introducing specific buttons for connectivity controls such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Airplane Mode, providing direct access without depending on the general connectivity widget.

    A new feature called “Reset Control Center” has been included in the settings, enabling users to revert to the original settings following any customizations.

    How can I update to iOS 18.1?

    Users with iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, or newer models can update their devices by navigating to “Settings,” choosing “General,” and then selecting “Software Update.” Simply tap on “Update Now” after the check, enter the password when prompted, and the device will restart to complete the update process, which could take a few minutes.

    Which iPhone models are eligible for updates?

    These iPhones are verified to be compatible with iOS 18 and 18.1 updates.

    • iPhone 16 Pro Max
    • iPhone 16 Pro
    • iPhone 16 Plus
    • iPhone 16
    • iPhone 15 Pro Max
    • iPhone 15 Pro
    • iPhone 15 Plus
    • iPhone 15
    • iPhone 14 Pro Max
    • iPhone 14 Pro
    • iPhone 14 Plus
    • iPhone 14
    • iPhone 13 Pro Max
    • iPhone 13 Pro
    • iPhone 13
    • iPhone 13 mini
    • iPhone 12 Pro Max
    • iPhone 12 Pro
    • iPhone 12
    • iPhone 12 mini
    • iPhone SE (2020)
    • iPhone SE 3 released in 2022
    • iPhone 11 Pro Max
    • iPhone 11 Pro
    • iPhone 11
    • iPhone XR
    • iPhone XS
    • iPhone XS Max

  • SpaceX sends to space the initial wooden satellite developed in Japan.

    SpaceX sends to space the initial wooden satellite developed in Japan.

    SpaceX launched the world’s first wooden satellite, named LignoSat, in a groundbreaking mission on Tuesday (5). Developed by researchers from the University of Kyoto and Sumitomo Forestry, this initiative sent the satellite to the International Space Station, showcasing a move towards sustainable space exploration by utilizing renewable materials.

    SpaceX successfully sends the LignoSat satellite into space on a confidential mission.

    The LignoSat is a compact satellite, named after the Latin term for “wood”, with the ambitious aim of showcasing wood as a viable resource for space building. It will be positioned in orbit around 400 km above Earth for testing under challenging space environments.

    Satélite Liongsat é uma caixinha de maeira, literalmente. Imagem: Reuters/Reprodução
    Imagem: JonPauling/DepositPhotos

    Former astronaut Takao Doi, who is now a professor at the University of Kyoto, emphasized the significance of the experiment by stating that using wood, a material that can be self-produced, will enable the construction of sustainable living and working spaces in space indefinitely. This initiative is part of a long-term plan by the Doi team to explore the potential of constructing wooden buildings on the Moon and Mars, envisioning a future where humans can reside and work beyond Earth using renewable resources.

    Wood is more resilient in space compared to Earth due to the absence of water and oxygen that lead to decay and swelling. This quality makes it a viable and environmentally friendly option for space missions, as stated by forest sciences professor Koji Murata from the University of Kyoto.

    Using wood as a material for satellites provides a more environmentally friendly option for when these devices reach the end of their service life. Unlike metal satellites that release pollutants like aluminum oxide when reentering the atmosphere, a wooden satellite like LignoSat would burn up without leaving harmful waste behind, reducing its environmental impact. There is even the belief that in the future, metal satellites may be prohibited in favor of wood as a viable and safe alternative.