Software Updates
Ongoing coverage on Software Updates.
Latest coverage
Chrome will now release updates every two weeks to better tackle security threats
Google Chrome will now release stable browser updates every two weeks, a shift from its previous release cycle. This change aims to improve the handling of security threats by delivering patches and new versions more frequently.
How to split bills and customize passes in Apple Wallet with iOS 27 Update
Apple's upcoming iOS 27 update will introduce new features to Apple Wallet, including enhanced bill splitting capabilities and customizable passes. The update aims to streamline financial management for users.
How to change Siri's voice
iOS 17 will introduce more expressive and customizable voice options for Siri. However, access to these new features will be limited to users with the latest hardware.
Installing an iOS public beta on your iPhone? Always do this first
Before installing an iOS public beta on an iPhone, it is crucial to back up your data. This step is essential for protecting your information and is easy to overlook.
These modern smartwatches are in their last year of updates
Several modern smartwatches are scheduled to lose their software update support this year. The article aims to inform users if their specific smartwatch model is among those being phased out.
A recent Windows 11 update is causing game crashes and all kinds of other problems
A recent Windows 11 update is reportedly causing game crashes and other issues for users. Microsoft has acknowledged the problem and launched an investigation to identify and resolve the cause.
The latest Windows 11 update is borking some multiplayer games, but Arc Raiders' developer has a quick workaround
A recent Windows 11 update, specifically versions 25H2 and 24H2, is causing crashes in several multiplayer games, including Arc Raiders, Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals. Microsoft is investigating the issue, while Embark Studios, the developer of Arc Raiders, has provided a temporary workaround involving command prompt commands and deleting a specific system file.
It looks like Windows updates might actually be speeding up the OS now
Recent Windows 11 updates are introducing performance enhancements, including a 'low latency profile' feature that allows apps to launch quicker by optimizing CPU boosting. This focus on performance and quality-of-life improvements comes as Microsoft reportedly increases licensing costs for OEMs, aiming to provide a snappier user experience.
Morning Mobilization
Google is expanding Android Auto functionality to boats and will be discontinuing its Assistant on older phones starting September 4th. This dual announcement signals shifts in Google's mobile and assistant strategies.
Okay, this time it seems like Valve has *actually* fixed Steam's local game transfer problem
Valve has released further updates to the Steam client to address issues with local network game transfers. These updates aim to resolve problems that prevented users from transferring game files between systems without using internet bandwidth. The latest patch also fixes a bug that prompted users to select a profile on startup.
Morning Metaverse
Mozilla has released updates for its Firefox browser and Thunderbird desktop client, version 153.0.1 for both applications. These updates include new features, fixes, and general improvements.
Samsung will support the Galaxy Watch 9 and Ultra 2 with five years of updates
Samsung has committed to providing five years of Wear OS updates for its new Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 models. This means both wearables will receive software support until 2031.
Evening Tech Bits
AMD is reportedly pricing its Helios Rack 40% higher than NVIDIA's second-generation Rubin, with confidence in customer willingness to pay a premium. The article also notes a changelog for Oracle VirtualBox version 7.2.
OnePlus exits Europe and North America — and OxygenOS is on the way out too
OnePlus has confirmed its withdrawal from the European and North American markets, ceasing the release of new products in these regions. Concurrently, the company is transitioning its OxygenOS software to Oppo's ColorOS for existing device owners to ensure continued support and updates.
Latest Microsoft Patch Tuesday updates stamp out a record 622 security vulnerabilities, as the company's AI-enhanced bug hunt looks to bear fruit
Microsoft's latest Patch Tuesday update addresses a record 622 security vulnerabilities across its products, with over 500 fixes for Windows. The update includes a patch for a zero-day vulnerability in Windows BitLocker and resolves a bug that could consume excessive storage space. Some Dell devices with Intel processors may experience compatibility issues with the update.
Evening Metaverse
Mozilla has released Firefox version 152.0.6, detailing new features, updates, and fixes. The update aims to improve the browsing experience for users.
Evening Tech Bits
Apple has released security updates for macOS Tahoe 26.5.2. Additionally, AMD Radeon GPUs can now run NVIDIA PhysX games with a significant performance boost using ZLUDA, eliminating the need for a dedicated PhysX card.
"We have our own list of features that we wanted to add": Valve say the Steam Machine's update support will be similar to the Steam Deck's
Valve hardware designer Lawrence Yang stated that the Steam Machine will receive software support and feature updates comparable to the Steam Deck. Valve plans to continuously ship updates and improvements, incorporating user feedback and their own internal feature wishlist, similar to how the Steam Deck evolved post-launch with new features and performance enhancements.
Sunday Tech Bits
This article provides brief updates on software versions, specifically mentioning Visual Studio Code version 1.125.1 and Joplin version 3.6.15.
What Happens After Your Smart Fridge Stops Getting Software Updates?
This article discusses the implications of smart appliances, such as smart refrigerators, ceasing to receive software updates. It explores what consumers can expect when manufacturers discontinue support for these devices, impacting their functionality and security over time.