Tag: blog

  • Windows 11 24H2 has been corrected to address issues with Western Digital SSD failures.

    Windows 11 24H2 has been corrected to address issues with Western Digital SSD failures.

    Some users experienced problems with Western Digital and SanDisk SSDs following the Windows 11 24H2 update, but the issue has been resolved with a firmware update from Western Digital addressing the Host Memory Buffer (HMB) function.

    Which models were impacted?

    Certain SSD models have been found to have compatibility problems.

    • The firmware version for the WD_BLACK SN770 NVMe SSD 2TB (WDBBDL0020BNC, WDS200T3X0E) is 731130WD.
    • The firmware of the WD_BLACK SN770M NVMe SSD 2TB (WDBDNH0020BBK, WDS200T3X0G) is 731130WD.
    • The firmware for the 2TB WD Blue SN580 NVMe SSD is version 281050WD.
    • The firmware version of the WD Blue SN5000 NVMe SSD 2TB (WDBS3F0020BNC, WDS200T4B0E) is 291020WD.
    • SanDisk Extreme M.2 NVMe SSD 2TB (SDSSDX3N-2T00) firmware version is 731130WD.

    How to implement a correction.

    Western Digital suggests using their Dashboard tool to resolve the problem. This tool not only facilitates the installation of new firmware but also monitors SSD health, temperature, speed, and available space. Upon installation, the software will alert you about new firmware updates, which can be easily completed by following on-screen instructions.

    Take necessary safety measures

    If you own one of the impacted SSDs and have not yet gotten the Windows 11 24H2 update, it is advised to proactively install the new firmware to prevent potential instability issues. Additionally, note that Windows Update may temporarily prevent the installation of update 24H2 on devices with these SSDs to prevent known issues.

    If your Windows 11 24H2 system has been updated and is unstable, you can apply a temporary fix using the Windows Registry Editor to modify the HMB allocation until the firmware update is implemented.

    1. Open the Start menu, search for Regedit, and then right-click on the matching result.
    2. Select “Run as administrator”.
    3. Explore HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\StorPort.
    4. Create a new DWORD value named HmbAllocationPolicy if it is not already present.
    5. Double-click on the value and change it to 2.
    6. Save the modifications and reboot the system.

    This adjustment should maintain system stability until the installation of the new firmware. Disabling the HMB entirely by setting the value to 0 can also provide a temporary solution in certain situations.

    Paraphrased: Origin

  • 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

  • In Brazil, Infinix introduces the XWatch 3 WE with a contemporary design; check out the cost.

    In Brazil, Infinix introduces the XWatch 3 WE with a contemporary design; check out the cost.

    In Brazil, Infinix, a brand under Transsion Holdings, recently introduced XWatch 3 WE, their inaugural smartwatch. It boasts a top-notch display, a long-lasting battery that can go up to 10 days without charging, and supports wireless charging. Additionally, it provides features like health tracking and weather updates.

    The Infinix XWatch 3 WE features an AMOLED display and a durable battery.

    The XWatch 3 WE has a contemporary appearance, including metal accents and a silicone band, making it suitable for various occasions like work, social events, and academic settings. It comes with a 1.44-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 466×466 pixels and Always On feature.

    Infinix XWatch 3 WE. Imagem: Infinix/Reprodução
    Imagem: TomasHa73/ShutterStock

    One unique feature is the battery that can last up to 10 days without needing to be charged, and it can be wirelessly charged through magnetic induction, removing the need for complex cables or connectors.

    The XWatch 3 WE distinguishes itself with its Bluetooth feature, enabling users to place and receive calls through the watch using the integrated microphone and speaker. Furthermore, the smartwatch provides access to call history and the phone’s contact list.

    XWatch 3 WE offers advanced health monitoring functions, such as sensors for tracking heart rate and live blood oxygen levels. Additionally, it allows users to view their health data history and access location-based weather forecasts for improved daily planning.

    Cost and stock status

    The XWatch 3 WE is now on sale on Infinix’s official website in Brazil for R$ 499.

  • ASUS introduces Zenbook S 14 in Brazil, the initial model featuring Intel Core Ultra 7.

    ASUS introduces Zenbook S 14 in Brazil, the initial model featuring Intel Core Ultra 7.

    ASUS has introduced the new Zenbook S 14 in Brazil, featuring the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, making it the first in the country to offer this advanced technology. The notebook is equipped with a steam chamber for efficient cooling despite its slim and minimalist design.

    Zenbook S 14 is the initial model in Brazil to feature Core Ultra 7.

    The Zenbook S 14 stands out for its sleek and minimalistic design, being one of the thinnest laptops available at 1.1 cm thick. Its Ceraluminum chassis, a blend of ceramic and aluminum, enhances durability by providing increased resistance to scratches and wear.

    Zenbook S 14 é o primeiro no Brasil com Core Ultra 7. Imagem: ASUS/Reprodução
    Imagem: GernotBra/Burst

    The Zenbook S 14, powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 (Series 2), provides exceptional performance in AI tasks, making it perfect for demanding activities like video editing, 3D modeling, and advanced programming. It boasts 32 GB of RAM, a 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD for ample multitasking capabilities, and rapid charging speeds. Its 28W TDP enhances energy efficiency, ensuring top-notch performance without sacrificing battery life.

    Zenbook S 14’s OLED screen boasts 2.8K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, approved by PANTONE and True Black 500 DisplayHDR for vivid colors and deep blacks. The Harman Kardon-certified audio system and Dolby Atmos technology offer impressive three-dimensional sound quality, making it ideal for professionals and multimedia enthusiasts.

    Zenbook S 14. Imagem: ASUS/Reprodução
    Imagem: MaxWdhs/DepositPhotos

    The Zenbook S 14 offers excellent connectivity options, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, HDMI 2.1, and headphone/microphone jacks. It also features WiFi 6E for fast and stable wireless connections, along with facial recognition and ASUS AiSense IR technology for enhanced security and privacy.

    Availability and cost

    The Zenbook S 14 is now on sale at ASUS and Fast Shop stores, starting at R$ 12,999,00. Customers can get a 10% discount if they choose to pay with PIX at the ASUS official store.

  • Motorola is getting ready to release the Moto G15.

    Motorola is getting ready to release the Moto G15.

    Motorola is developing the Moto G15 as the next model after the Moto G14, which was launched in August 2023. The upcoming device is expected to have basic hardware and has been spotted in the Geekbench database, revealing information about its RAM capacity and operating system.

    The Moto G15 appears on the Geekbench listing.

    The Moto G15 was spotted on the benchmark platform using the codenamed motherboard “lamu” and featuring a Mali-G52 MC2 GPU. The processor, with eight cores – six running at 1.7 GHz and two at 2.0 GHz, was not specifically mentioned.

    The information disclosed in the listing indicates that the device is expected to come with 4 GB of RAM and Android 15, which is unexpected for an entry-level model. During the Geekbench testing, the Moto G15 achieved a score of 340 in the single-core test and 1,311 in the multi-core test.

    What can be anticipated from the Moto G15

    There is currently no details available about the remaining Moto G15 specifications, but it is anticipated to be comparable to its previous version in certain aspects, such as maintaining 4G connectivity as the prior model did not support 5G.

    The design should remain relatively stable, especially given the device’s category. The biggest unknown factor lies in the brand’s choice of processor for the Moto G14, which came equipped with the Unisoc T616.

    Motorola has not disclosed the launch date for the Moto G15, but with leaks surfacing, the official announcement shouldn’t be far off.

  • iOS 18 bug causing iPhone 16 battery to deplete quickly.

    iOS 18 bug causing iPhone 16 battery to deplete quickly.

    iPhone 16 users are experiencing significant battery draining issues, with iOS 18 being the primary suspect. Complaints have surfaced in various online forums following the release of the new operating system and iPhone 16 models.

    What’s going on with the iPhone 16 battery?

    Many reports suggest that the battery life of the iPhone 16 is draining rapidly, even with minimal usage. Users have noticed a significant decrease in battery percentage within a short period, even when not using the device intensively. Upgraders from previous models have expressed disappointment over the decreased usage time between charges, despite energy-saving settings being in place.

    View an additional remark.

    Something seems amiss with Apple as the battery drains quickly even when idle. The user noticed a rapid decrease in battery percentage shortly after unplugging the phone, which has left them puzzled by this unusual behavior.

    A user has reported that their iPhone 16 Pro drains about 11% of the battery overnight, even when not connected to other devices like an Apple Watch. Disabling features like Always On Display and ProMotion does not solve the issue.

    Could iOS 18 be the source of the issue?

    iPhone 16 users have been experiencing battery drain issues, but there are signs that older iPhones with iOS 18 may also be affected. Reports on MacRumors indicate that users have noticed a significant decrease in battery life since the system’s official release, with complaints dating back to the beta phase.

    One major issue is that in numerous instances, the primary battery drain happens during standby mode when the iPhone is idle, indicating that background tasks may be causing this unusual usage.

    What should be done?

    Several individuals have experimented with various methods to reduce battery consumption. These include disabling background application updates, lowering the screen refresh rate to 60Hz, and turning off the Always On display. While some have noticed a slight enhancement, a significant number are still encountering the issue. This indicates a potential bug in iOS 18 that requires resolution.

    Apple has rolled out small updates like iOS 18.0.1 and iOS 18.1 beta, with some users reporting better battery life. However, these updates haven’t resolved the issue for all users, suggesting that there may be a bug impacting battery performance that needs a software update for a permanent fix.

    Source

  • Qualcomm introduces Snapdragon 8 Elite featuring enhanced performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities.

    Qualcomm introduces Snapdragon 8 Elite featuring enhanced performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities.

    Qualcomm unveiled its latest and most powerful smartphone processor, Snapdragon 8 Elite, at the annual Snapdragon Summit event in Hawaii. The chip is expected to usher in a new era for mobile devices, with Samsung’s Galaxy S25 already confirmed to be using this new Qualcomm processor.

    Qualcomm renames its line of processors.

    Qualcomm recently renamed its range of processors, moving away from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 to Gen 3 nomenclature to better align with the successful Snapdragon X Elite used in PCs. The new name emphasizes the concept of “Elite,” symbolizing top-tier innovation and performance in the processor market.

    O novo Snapdragon 8 Elite oferece mais performance que se antecessor, o Snapdraogn 8 Gen 3. Imagem: Qualcoomm/Reprodução
    Imagem: JonPauling/GettyImages

    Snapdragon 8 Elite introduces the next version of Oryon cores designed for mobile devices, offering enhanced performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessors. The new architecture boasts up to 46% improved energy consumption efficiency, with Prime cores running at speeds of up to 4.32 GHz and Performance cores at speeds of up to 3.53 GHz. This surpasses rival processors like MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400, elevating smartphone performance to unprecedented levels.

    Cache memory was rearranged, with 12 MB of L2 cache allocated to each group of cores, totaling 24 MB. This leads to faster command execution and an improved user experience.

    Snapdragon 8 Elite, made using the TSMC 3 nm N3E process, contains more than 40 elements in its SoC, such as a new Adreno GPU. This new GPU offers a 40% increase in efficiency and performance, as well as enhancements in ray tracing and CPU cooperation. The synergy among these components enables mobile devices to surpass the performance of numerous desktops.

    The chip’s NPU Hexagon in artificial intelligence (AI) excels by providing 45% higher AI performance. It allows for the use of multimodal language models, enabling users to work with text, images, voice, and video on the device without needing the cloud. This innovation transforms how smartphones handle information, adjust to user context, and prioritize privacy.

    Camera and connectivity capabilities

    O novo Snapdragon 8 Elite foca em IA de próxima geração. Imagem: Qualcomm/Reprodução
    Imagem:
    chsyys/GettyImages

    Image processing on Snapdragon 8 Elite has been significantly enhanced, with the new AI ISP Spectra providing high-quality photo and video capture capabilities. This includes the ability to capture photos with three 48 MP cameras simultaneously at 30 fps and record 4K videos at 60 fps with AI assistance, improving detailing and enabling real-time adjustments for tasks like lighting correction and object removal.

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite is notable for its advanced connectivity features, including Wi-Fi 7 support reaching speeds of up to 5.8 Gbps and 5G Advanced capabilities with a second-generation 5G processor integrated with AI. Additionally, it introduces NB-NTN satellite connectivity, enabling smartphones to stay connected in remote locations.

    Availability of goods

    The upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite will be accessible on ASUS, Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus devices. The initial launch of smartphones featuring this chip is planned for the upcoming weeks.

  • 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.

  • Google introduces a new function for finding more affordable airfares; learn about its operation.

    Google introduces a new function for finding more affordable airfares; learn about its operation.

    Google recently introduced a significant update to Google Flights, aiming to simplify the process of finding affordable airline tickets. The latest feature enables users to easily identify flight choices with the most competitive prices, timely for those planning year-end travel.

    How does the new tab function at a lower cost?

    Google Flights will introduce a new tab named “Best” or “Cheapest” to prioritize price over other factors when searching for tickets.

    Nova aba Cheapest exibe as buscas  mais baratas encontradas. Imagem: Google/Reprodução
    Imagem: astrovariable/Burst

    Simply input the essential travel details – starting point, endpoint, and dates – to utilize this function. Upon selecting “Search”, you can view the most convenient choices along with the option to click on the “Cheaper” tab to focus solely on tickets with lower prices.

    The new tab aims to cater to situations where the trip cost is the primary consideration, offering users a simple way to view and select the lowest available prices while allowing them to decide on trade-offs.

    When is it going to be ready?

    Google has verified that the rollout of the update will happen for all users “in the following weeks,” with reports indicating that the feature is already accessible on both mobile and web versions of the service.

  • Chrome introduces three additional security features in October.

    Chrome introduces three additional security features in October.

    October is recognized as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and Google Chrome has introduced several updates to enhance security and privacy for its users. One notable update is the synchronization of access keys between desktop and mobile devices.

    Access keys currently in sync

    Chaves de acesso agora sincronizadas entre celular e PC; Foto: Chrome
    Imagem: xsix/Flickr

    Improved password management in Google now automatically syncs access keys across devices, enhancing security with options like facial recognition and fingerprint or screen lock for easy and secure logins to apps and websites.

    This update offers the option to secure access keys on various devices using the screen lock or a PIN on your Android device without sacrificing security. The default choice is a six-digit PIN, but users can modify this for enhanced security.

    • Start by creating access keys.

    Enhanced security confirmation is now more proactive.

    Mais formas de proteger a sua conta
    Imagem: JonPauling/Pexels

    Security Confirmation has been enhanced with new features, such as automatically revoking unused site permissions to reduce monitoring of online activity.

    Another useful feature is the automatic removal of subscriptions to unwanted notifications, which is becoming a common issue for individuals overwhelmed by pop-ups and irritating messages. The Security Confirmation feature also detects and warns about potentially harmful extensions, assisting in preventing risks proactively.

    Protection in real-time against phishing and malware

    Proteção em tempo real
    Imagem: GernotBra/GettyImages

    Chrome’s latest feature functions like an antivirus, providing improved defense against phishing and malware through artificial intelligence. It operates in real time to detect potential threats from malicious extensions, websites, and files, delivering quicker and more precise warnings.

    How can it be activated?

    To enable this security feature, simply navigate to the Chrome menu, click on “Settings”, then choose “Privacy and security” followed by “Security”, and finally opt for Reinforced Protection under the Safe Browsing section.