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Tag: microsoft

  • Apple surpasses Microsoft and NVIDIA in value to become the world’s most valuable company.

    Apple surpasses Microsoft and NVIDIA in value to become the world’s most valuable company.

    In 2024, technology giants like NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Apple have seen shifts in their positions as the world’s most valuable companies. Recently, Apple reclaimed the top spot with a market value of $3.62 trillion, following a 2.5% increase in its stock price due to a favorable report from Morgan Stanley.

    Apple is now the world’s most valuable company.

    Apple’s stock surged by nearly 20% this year, hitting a peak of $236.30 per share and boosting the company’s market capitalization to $3.62 trillion, solidifying its position as the world’s most valuable company.

    Innovations in AI have impacted the competition for market leadership in terms of value, with Microsoft and Apple making substantial investments in this field. Microsoft initially led the race due to its early AI initiatives, but Apple has now also embraced this trend of innovation.

    Morgan Stanley predicts that Apple’s focus on AI will boost sales of its devices, particularly the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models that feature Apple Intelligence technology, paving the way for strong sales of the iPhone 16 series.

    Advances in AI, along with the anticipation surrounding the need for Apple Silicon chips in Macs, are creating high expectations. This shift has the potential to surpass Intel’s objectives by driving Mac upgrades and enhancements, thereby solidifying Apple’s standing in the technology industry.

  • Microsoft will stop providing support for Windows 11 versions 21H2 and 22H2; find out when.

    Microsoft will stop providing support for Windows 11 versions 21H2 and 22H2; find out when.

    Microsoft will stop providing support for Windows 11 versions 21H2 and 22H2 on October 8, 2024, prompting users to upgrade to newer versions like 23H2 to ensure security.

    Microsoft will end support for Windows 11 21H2 and 22H2 in October.

    Windows 11 Home and Pro editions will be supported for two years, and Enterprise and Education versions will receive support until 2025. Windows 11 version 23H2 will be supported until November 11, 2025.

    To determine the Windows 11 version on your computer, follow these steps:

    • Access System Preferences.
    • Review the About section in System.
    • The latest version can be easily updated through the settings to keep your device secure and current.

    Keeping the operating system constantly updated is crucial, especially in a rapidly evolving digital security landscape. Ensure your Windows 11 is prepared for upcoming changes and do not procrastinate in updating it.

  • Microsoft has announced the removal of Paint 3D, signaling the end of the popular program.

    Microsoft has announced the removal of Paint 3D, signaling the end of the popular program.

    Microsoft has officially declared the end of Paint 3D, an image editing tool that came with Windows 10.

    The application is set to be deleted from the Microsoft Store on November 4, 2024, signaling the conclusion of an app that was launched with the goal of making 3D content creation more widespread among users.

    Summary

    • Microsoft has revealed that Paint 3D will be discontinued and removed from the Microsoft Store by November 4, 2024. Existing installations will still be functional, but the app will no longer be available for download.
    • Microsoft recommends using Paint or Photos app for editing 2D images and 3D Viewer for viewing 3D content.

    Microsoft has declared that Paint 3D will be discontinued and taken off the Microsoft Store on November 4, 2024. Existing installations of the app will still function, but it will no longer be available for download after that date.

    Microsoft recommends using Paint or Photos app for editing 2D images and 3D Viewer for viewing 3D content.

    Not using the app.

    Paint 3D was created to enable the editing of both 2D and 3D images, offering a contemporary take on the traditional Microsoft Paint. Nonetheless, it did not attract a large number of users as anticipated.

    Microsoft recognized this by not including Paint 3D as a default application in Windows 11, making it available as an optional choice for users who still wished to utilize the tool.

    When is the removal scheduled?

    Users who need to reinstall Paint 3D must do so before the specified date as it will no longer be available for download after November 4, 2024. Existing installations will remain functional.

    Options

    Microsoft suggests using Paint or the Photos app for editing 2D images and 3D Viewer for viewing 3D content as alternatives.

    Paint 3D alternatives

    • 2D Image Editing: Choosing between Paint and Photos.
    • Visualization of three-dimensional content: Viewer for 3D.

    The conclusion of Paint 3D signifies shifts in user preferences and requirements, with a broader selection of specialized tools available both within and beyond the Microsoft environment.

  • Microsoft has verified that Control Panel will no longer be available on Windows 11.

    Microsoft has verified that Control Panel will no longer be available on Windows 11.

    The Control Panel, a long-standing feature of the Windows operating system, is set to be phased out in Windows 11. Microsoft has confirmed that it is in the process of discontinuing the Control Panel and transitioning to the Settings app for a more modern and streamlined user experience.

    Microsoft plans to discontinue the Control Panel feature in Windows 11.

    The speculation regarding the discontinuation of the Control Panel has been ongoing for years. Despite indications dating back to 2011 that it might be replaced by “PC Settings”, Microsoft has not yet phased out the Control Panel in its latest Windows versions.

    In 2015, a Microsoft employee stated that the Control Panel would be replaced by the Settings eventually, but the transition was delayed as some features had not yet been transferred to the new application.

    Microsoft stated that removing the Control Panel aims to provide a more unified and modern user experience by introducing the Settings app, which offers easier access to system settings and tools with a user-friendly interface designed to be more intuitive, especially for newcomers.

    The Control Panel is being phased out slowly, but it will still be accessible for compatibility purposes until all its settings are fully incorporated into the Settings app.

  • Microsoft has reversed its decision and will not remove the Windows Control Panel.

    Microsoft has reversed its decision and will not remove the Windows Control Panel.

    Microsoft recently created a buzz by revealing plans to phase out the traditional Windows Control Panel in favor of the Settings app. However, they have now reversed this decision and confirmed that the Control Panel will remain in use for the time being.

    Microsoft has no plans to remove the Windows Control Panel.

    Microsoft has softened its stance on the future of the Control Panel, indicating that many of its settings are being transitioned to the Settings app, as per a recent update in the official Windows documentation.

    Microsoft is still keeping the Control Panel in Windows 11 alongside the Settings app, which is beneficial for users and IT professionals who rely on it.

    The Control Panel has not been listed as obsolete in Windows, indicating Microsoft’s current intention to maintain it as part of the system. The company has not publicly disclosed the reason for this decision, but user feedback may have influenced it.

  • Microsoft has terminated 2,550 employees following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

    Microsoft has terminated 2,550 employees following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

    Microsoft has confirmed that more than 650 employees in its gaming division will be leaving the company. This move comes as part of a larger workforce reduction following the acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023, which has already resulted in a total of 2,550 job cuts. According to Xbox head Phil Spencer, these layoffs are aimed at restructuring the company for sustained success and will not impact studios or game development.

    Microsoft lays off 650 workers from its gaming department.

    Spencer assured that there will be no closures of games, devices, or studios due to the resignations. He emphasized the goal of reallocating resources for sustainable growth, aligning with the requirements of Microsoft Gaming studios and business units.

    The layoffs are a result of restructuring following the acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $69 billion. Microsoft is reorganizing to align with its new objectives, but assures that important projects will continue as planned.

    Phil Spencer explicar por que a Microsoft demitiu mais funcionários da sua divisão de jogos. Imagem: Reprodução
    Imagem: Peggychoucair/Burst

    In 2024, a second round of layoffs occurred, with 1,900 employees affected, leading to the closure of Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin studios, known for their games such as Hi-Fi Rush and Redfall.

    Samsung, like other companies, is making job cuts globally. After laying off a significant number of employees in India, the leading smartphone company intends to decrease its global workforce by 30%.

  • Microsoft has confirmed a delay in the anticipated release of the Windows 11 24H2 update.

    Microsoft has confirmed a delay in the anticipated release of the Windows 11 24H2 update.

    Microsoft has confirmed that the anticipated Windows 11 24H2 update will be postponed with no new release date set, causing users to remain in anticipation without a specific schedule for the update.

    News and updates anticipated in version 24H2.

    Microsoft issued a new update for members of the Insider Program, focusing on preparing devices for future updates rather than introducing new features.

    The Windows 11 24H2 update, once it is available, is expected to deliver multiple enhancements. Some of these include:

    • Fix for locks in Microsoft Edge when utilizing Internet Explorer mode.
    • Adjust in Outlook and other secure email applications, removing the requirement to enter the PIN multiple times.
    • Manage your Copilot Subscription directly within the app Settings.
    • Correction is prevented in Task Manager when high contrast themes are enabled.

    Microsoft plans to gradually introduce new features in the upcoming weeks, alongside these corrections.

    • Sharing files directly from the Taskbar search results.
    • System updates now feature a refreshed page layout for Delivery Optimization settings.
    • Media controls displayed on the lock screen;
    • “Ability to ‘exit’ provided in the Account Manager located in the Start Menu.”

    Launch schedule is uncertain.

    Microsoft has not announced a new release date for version 24H2 yet, but it is possible that the update could be released in October if no new major issues arise.

    Source

  • Microsoft Copilot+ is now available on WhatsApp at no cost; learn how to utilize it

    Microsoft Copilot+ is now available on WhatsApp at no cost; learn how to utilize it

    Microsoft has introduced an exciting new feature for WhatsApp users: Copilot+, its AI assistant, can now be accessed within the messaging app at no cost. This announcement was made on October 1 and includes intelligent functions like creating images and summarizing texts.

    How does Copilot+ function on WhatsApp?

    Conversa do Copilot+ no WhatsApp. Imagem: Oficina da Net
    Imagem: GernotBra/DepositPhotos

    Any WhatsApp user can now utilize the Microsoft AI generative within the app by clicking on an access link and sending a “Hi Copilot” in the conversation window. Upon acceptance, users can explore a range of AI features.

    • Ask questions and receive responses in a natural manner.
    • Summarize lengthy texts.
    • Modify the tone of a message to appear either more formal or informal.
    • Develop narratives from simple concepts.
    • Create pictures using written descriptions.

    This virtual assistance is free and available in Portuguese for Brazilians, making Copilot+ convenient for those looking to streamline their daily tasks on WhatsApp.

    Additional aspects of Copilot+

    Microsoft has introduced additional features to Copilot, including Copilot Voice for voice conversations with the AI and Copilot Daily for news summaries and weather forecasts in audio format.

    Copilot Discover, another notable feature, utilizes past user interactions to recommend activities like improving social skills or engaging in meditation.

    While certain functions are currently limited to English-speaking nations like the US and UK, Microsoft intends to introduce Copilot+ to additional languages and regions in the future.

  • Microsoft will continue to offer games for Android in November.

    Microsoft will continue to offer games for Android in November.

    Microsoft has confirmed that starting in November, the Xbox app will enable users to purchase and play games directly through the app, potentially allowing for game streaming through the cloud instead of playing directly on Android devices. Further details have not been disclosed by Microsoft.

    Xbox President shares updates on Social Network X.

    The Xbox app on Android is set to receive an update allowing users to purchase and play platform games directly within the app, following a legal ruling against Google that required an expansion of mobile app store functionalities on Android.

    Sarah Bond discussed it and revealed the new development.

    The court ruling allowing Google’s mobile app market in the US to expand provides increased choices and adaptability. As part of our goal to enable a wider range of users to access games on various devices, we are pleased to share that starting in November, users can purchase and play Xbox games directly through the Xbox app on Android.

    Microsoft intended to introduce a gaming store for Android through the web, but this concept never materialized. Google is currently challenging a court ruling that mandates the company to make these alterations, which must be completed by November 1 of this year.

  • Microsoft will discontinue Windows 10, but you have the option to pay in order to keep using it.

    Microsoft will discontinue Windows 10, but you have the option to pay in order to keep using it.

    Microsoft will stop providing free support for Windows 10 in October 2025, requiring users to pay for Extended Security Updates to receive continued security updates.

    How much will it cost?

    For individuals using Windows 10 at home, the fee is $30 (approximately R$175), while businesses face higher costs that escalate annually.

    • 1st year: $61 (approximately R$355)
    • 2nd year: $122 (approximately R$710)
    • 3rd year: $244 (equivalent to about R$ 1,420)

    Companies have the option to purchase up to three more years of assistance, whereas individual users will have access to only one additional year of support following the official support period.

    ESU provides security updates exclusively, without including new features, enhancements, or technical assistance. Microsoft aims to incentivize users to transition to Windows 11, which will receive comprehensive updates and support.

    Why do individuals continue to utilize Windows 10?

    Windows 10 is currently the most popular operating system globally, with approximately 62.75% of users, while Windows 11 accounts for 33.42%. The transition to Windows 11 has been slow due to its hardware requirements, such as the need for a TPM security chip, which is lacking in many older computers. Consequently, upgrading to Windows 11 often necessitates purchasing a new computer.

    Windows 11 has been plagued by numerous bugs that have impacted user experience, leading some to stick with Windows 10.

    Paraphrased: Origin