Brian Fagioli

In a surprising turn of events, Windows 11 has overtaken Windows 10 as the most popular operating system among Steam users. According to the August 2024 Steam Hardware & Software Survey, Windows 11 now claims 49.17 percent of the user base, while Windows 10 has dropped to 47.09 percent. This marks the first time that Microsoft's latest OS has surpassed its predecessor.

The surge in Windows 11's popularity represents a 3.36 percent increase from the previous month, a testament to the growing acceptance and adoption of the OS. Conversely, Windows 10 saw a decline of 3.07 percent, indicating that more gamers are making the switch to the newer platform.

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Nitrux, the Debian-based distribution known for its focus on simplicity and performance, has just released version 3.6.1, codenamed “lp.” This release packs a series of updates and fixes that are aimed at improving the overall experience for both new and existing users.

If you’ve been contemplating a switch from Windows 11, Nitrux 3.6.1 is the perfect alternative. You can download an ISO here now.

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Armbian, the Linux distribution designed for ARM development boards, has just released version 24.8.1. This version of the operating system brings a ton of updates (see full changelog here) that are sure to catch the attention of enthusiasts and developers alike.

Notably, this release focuses on improving hardware compatibility, especially for those using the Odroid XU4 and RK3588 platforms, while also refining the overall system stability and performance. You can download the distro here now.

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Rhino Linux has released its latest version, 2024.2, bringing a bunch of updates and enhancements that make it a compelling choice for those considering a switch from Windows 11. The release includes improvements to both the distribution and the Rhino Linux wiki, offering a more streamlined and cohesive user experience.

One of the most notable changes in this version is the introduction of an upgraded Unicorn theme. This new theme replaces the previous Yaru-Purple scheme, giving the desktop environment a fresh and vibrant look. The updated theme enhances visual integration across the system, from the Rhino Linux installer to everyday applications like Thunar and XFCE4-Terminal, making the transition from Windows 11 smoother and more visually appealing.

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As we edge closer to the reality of 6G, the next generation of wireless communication, one of the biggest questions is how we will achieve the ultra-fast speeds and massive data capacity that it promises. The answer lies in a groundbreaking new device: a silicon-based polarization multiplexer designed to operate at terahertz (THz) frequencies.

This new polarization multiplexer is a key piece of technology that could help unlock the full potential of 6G. It works by allowing two separate streams of data to be transmitted simultaneously over the same frequency band, using different polarizations of the electromagnetic wave. This essentially doubles the data capacity of that channel, a crucial advancement given the data-hungry applications that 6G will support, such as real-time holographic communication, advanced AI-driven services, and ultra-responsive smart cities.

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Have you been wondering if your iPhone can run the upcoming iOS 18? Well, I have good news. Apple has revealed the devices that will be compatible with the operating system update.

The iPhone 15 series, including the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, will naturally be at the forefront of this update, benefiting from the latest features and enhancements that iOS 18 has to offer. However, the new Apple Intelligence functionality is limited to the 15 Pro models.

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Google has announced that AVIF, a rapidly growing image format, is now officially supported in Google Search, including Google Images and other areas where images are utilized. This means that AVIF files can now be indexed by Google without requiring any special configuration from webmasters.

AVIF, an open image file format derived from the AV1 video compression standard, has gained traction due to its efficient compression and high-quality output. Its compatibility spans across all major web browsers and is supported by various platforms, including WordPress, Joomla, and CloudFlare.

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HYPER has introduced its HyperJuice Qi2 lineup, designed for tech enthusiasts, Apple users, iPhone owners, and travelers. Notably, these chargers should prove to be perfect for the upcoming Apple iPhone 16 smartphones.

This new range features Qi2 technology, which allows users to charge their Qi2-enabled devices at twice the speed of the first-generation 7.5W Qi protocol. The efficiency of this charging solution is enhanced by magnetic alignment that ensures the charging coils are perfectly aligned, optimizing energy usage, reducing heat generation, and protecting battery life.

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As the United States nears the November elections, Google is introducing a series of new initiatives designed to ensure that voters have access to reliable information and that its platforms remain secure against potential threats. Laurie Richardson, Vice President of Trust & Safety at Google, has outlined the company's latest efforts in this regard.

Google is continuing its focus on helping users find trustworthy information related to the electoral process. As part of this, Google Search will provide users across the U.S. with aggregated resources from state election offices, sourced through Democracy Works. Additionally, YouTube will feature information panels about federal election candidates, offering details such as political party affiliation and links to official channels. Google Play has also introduced a new badge to help users identify apps that are from official government agencies, including those related to voting.

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Meta’s Llama AI engine has seen substantial growth in the open source AI landscape, emerging as a leading force in the industry. With nearly 350 million downloads to date, Llama models have experienced a significant increase in adoption over the past year. In July alone, the models were downloaded over 20 million times, positioning Llama as a prominent open source model family.

Since the introduction of Llama 3.1, which expanded context length to 128K and added support for multiple languages, usage by token volume across major cloud service providers has more than doubled in three months. This growth reflects an increasing preference for Llama within the developer community, making it a notable competitor in the AI field.

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The 117B-USBC-MULTIPORT by StarTech.com offers a practical solution for those seeking to expand their laptop's connectivity options. This USB Type-C Multiport Adapter leverages DP 1.4 Alt Mode and Multi-Stream Transport (MST) from a host computer to support up to three external displays, making it a versatile choice for users who need to manage multiple screens. With 2x HDMI and 2x DisplayPort outputs, the adapter transforms a single USB-C or Thunderbolt 3/4 port into a useful hub.

The 117B-USBC-MULTIPORT enhances video connectivity by supporting up to three external monitors, with potential resolutions of 1x 4K (3840 x 2160p) at 60Hz and 2x 4K at 30Hz. Users with Intel 11th Gen processors or later, featuring DSC technology, can achieve optimal performance. The adapter utilizes the laptop's integrated or discrete GPU to ensure efficient handling of high-resolution displays, dependent on the capabilities of the host computer.

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Microsoft is delving into the depths of human brain function, trying to replicate its most complex processes in artificial intelligence. While this might sound like progress, it raises a chilling question: Are we on the brink of creating an AI that could outthink and overpower its creators?

In collaboration with top universities, Microsoft Research Asia is spearheading projects that mimic the brain's intricate neural networks. CircuitNet, one such project, isn't just another AI -- it’s a system designed to think like a human. By replicating the brain's connectivity patterns, CircuitNet could potentially surpass current AI capabilities, processing information with an efficiency and accuracy that traditional systems can’t match.

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As the open-source movement continues to gain traction, more users are considering switching from proprietary systems like Windows 11 to free and open alternatives. Released today (after a delay), Ubuntu 24.04.1 LTS Noble Numbat (download here) is the perfect choice for those ready to embrace open-source software.

Whether you're a first-time Linux user, an experienced developer, an academic researcher, or an enterprise administrator, Ubuntu 24.04.1 LTS offers unparalleled benefits just as the platform celebrates 20 years of existence. Is a point release that exciting? Yes! Many people wait for the first point release prior to upgrading.

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Apple Sports, the free app for iPhone and Apple Watch, is gearing up for the upcoming NFL and college football seasons with several new updates. The app, which enables fans to follow games, leagues, conferences, and teams, will soon offer real-time updates directly on iPhone and Apple Watch Lock Screens through Live Activities. This feature allows users to monitor their favorite teams without unlocking their devices.

The latest enhancements include improved play-by-play features that provide quick access to scoring drives, presented alongside every game play. The app also introduces a dynamic drive tracker that displays the ball's position on the field in real-time. Fans can now follow NFL teams, the top 25 college football teams, and their favorite college conferences more closely.

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Google has introduced several new features for its Gemini platform, aimed at enhancing the user experience with customizable AI experts, known as Gems, and an advanced image generation model, Imagen 3. These features are now available to Gemini Advanced, Business, and Enterprise users and are designed to improve both productivity and creativity across various applications.

Gemini Advanced, Business, and Enterprise subscribers can now create and interact with Gems, which are customizable AI experts tailored to specific tasks or topics. Users can generate Gems by providing instructions, naming them, and then utilizing them for various tasks, including brainstorming ideas or assisting with writing. Gems are designed to offer support in areas such as simplifying complex topics, providing creative inspiration, offering career guidance, giving feedback on writing, and assisting with coding projects. These AI experts are accessible on both desktop and mobile devices in over 150 countries and support a wide range of languages.

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