While this may not be a "rocket" laptop, it's a fantastic choice for basic tasks, students, kids, and anyone else who needs a reliable device to do their job.
Powered by a 12th-generation Intel Core i3 processor, this laptop delivers enough juice to complete everyday tasks. Whether browsing the web, working on school projects, or streaming videos, this Inspiron 15 will do the job.
The Dell Inspiron 15 comes with a 15.6-inch Full HD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, promising to deliver clear, vibrant images with minimal glare, thanks to its anti-glare coating. This makes extended screen time more comfortable, whether you're studying or enjoying your favorite Netflix series.
The laptop comes with 8GB of DDR4 memory, which isn't a lot, but it allows you to run your regular tasks. You can always add another 8GB since there's a second slot available, and the laptop supports up to 16GB RAM.
The Inspiron 15 has a decently sized 512GB SSD for storage, which means there's plenty of space for files, photos, and apps.
One of the standout features of the Dell Inspiron 15 is its lightweight design, weighing in at just 3.65 pounds. This makes it a perfect companion for students and young users who are always on the move, offering convenience without sacrificing performance.
Now is the perfect time to get your hands on a dependable laptop for very little money. Since you can n
In a back-and-forth that resembles a certain pair of pop vocalists with beef, Intel scheduled an announcement that its new Lunar Lake series of chips will beat Snapdragon X in several metrics, including the new NPU hotness, at exactly the same time as the new Arm-based laptops were announced. Gordon goes into deep detail on the differences, the similarities, and what all these new chips actually mean for you, the consumer.
Once you're done with that, you can catch up on all of today's news on the new Snapdragon machines from the likes of Surface, Dell, Lenovo, Acer, and HP.
Microsoft's new Surface laptops are bursting with AI power
Microsoft is also calling these the Surface Pro 11th Edition and the Surface Laptop 7th Edition.
Both the Surface Pro and the Surface Laptop are the consumer versions of the Surface Pro 10 for Business and the Surface Laptop 6 for Business, which debuted in March. Those chips included more conventional Core Ultra chips inside.
The two new Surfaces use the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, a chip licensed from Arm. Nine PC makers signed on to use the Snapdragon X Elite chip, including heavyweights like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Microsoft. The X Elite has already proven to be extremely fast and even the new Snapdragon X Plus derivative still outperforms a Core Ultra, Qualcomm claims. Battery life was always the Snapdragon's strong suit. Now Windows on Arm PCs have an opportunity to combine long battery life with competitive performance.
And what does this new Windows on Arm generation mean? For one thing, Arm executives are claiming that the days of laggy, incompatible Windows on Arm apps are basical
"The pursuit has always been about how to build computers that understand us, instead of having us having to understand computers, and I feel like we really are close to that breakthrough," said Satya Nadella, Microsoft's chief executive, in a briefing with reporters on Microsoft's campus.
A Copilot PC combines local, on-device AI with cloud AI, according to Microsoft, to provide a range of services. Some of the new laptops shipping with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors will be classified as Copilot PCs, taking advantage of the NPU found within both chips. That NPU will power local AI functions, with over 45 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) driving the AI engine. Copilot PCs require 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and an integrated NPU.
Intel executives, in what was clearly an effort to distract from the launch of a number of PCs powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, said that Lunar Lake is currently in production and is on track to ship in the third quarter. Intel's next desktop processor, "Arrow Lake," is on track to ship during the fourth quarter of 2024.
Microsoft launched its Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 with Snapdragon X Elite chips inside at a launch in Redmond, Wash., alongside several laptop vendors using Qualcomm's chip running on Windows on Arm, including Lenovo, Dell, and Acer.
In response, Intel executives added to what we already know about Lunar Lake on Monday. What's new? Lunar Lake will include new "Lion Cove" performance cores ("P-cores") as well as new "Skymont" efficiency ("E-cores,") both with "significant IPC [instr
Our video team got some hands-on time with both of these laptops at a Lenovo presentation. Check out their initial impressions in the video below!
Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6
I'm gonna start with the ThinkPad, because I like ThinkPads and I'm writing this article, so there. The T series is a staple for businesses and anyone who likes good keyboards and the signature Trackpoint (the red mouse nub thing), so it's hardly surprising that this model can fit in with other Lenovo designs even while packing some big changes under the hood. With its standard clamshell design and unassuming branding, plus Lenovo's more common lid flair, it has looks best described as "familiar."
But from the outside, there's nothing to indicate that the Swift 14 AI is anything more than its siblings in the Swift series — straightforward laptop designs with good materials and a certain lack of flamboyance. The clamshell is using an aluminum-alloy body and a 2560×1600 IPS screen with a faster-than-average 120Hz refresh rate. The hinge is 180 degrees, and though this isn't a convertible laptop, you can upgrade to a touchscreen if you want.
Underneath the backlit keyboard is a choice of Snapdragon X Plus or X Elite processors, 10 cores and 12 cores respectively, both running at 3.4GHz when you get them humming. Storage and RAM seem a little more familiar: "up to" 1TB Gen 4 and 32GB DDR5. Acer says that the built-in NPU can handle up to 45 TOPS (trillions of operations per second), though Windows' ability to actually take advantage of that for anything beyond blurring video backgrounds is still in question.
And that's not all. The Dell Latitude 7455 uses the Snapdragon X Elite, and the slower, slightly less powerful Snapdragon X Plus will ship as part of the Latitude 7455, too, as well as the Latitude 5455, Inspiron 14 and Inspiron 14 Plus.
We knew that Dell had signed up to use the Snapdragon X Elite as early as last October, when nine PC makers committed to supporting Qualcomm's new X Elite processor. We didn't know as much about the Snapdragon X Plus, which uses a cut-down version of the Elite without the turbo boost options. But it seems that Dell is even more committed to the X Plus than the X Elite.
Presumably, these will be Copilot PCs, offering the AI benefits of features that Microsoft announced Monday Those include Recall, which will allow you to hunt down information on an explorable timeline; Live Captions with AI-generated captions of streamed audio; Auto Super Resolution; and Cocreator, the AI art generator within Microsoft Paint. All have Copilot keys.
Dell XPS 13 9345
The Dell XPS 13 9345 goes on sale today, but will ship "later this year," Dell says, for a starting price of $1,299.
On paper, Dell's Snapdragon-powered XPS 13 is very similar to the existing
For laptops, Samsung is offering big cuts on the Galaxy Book4 series. You can get the standard 15.6-inch laptop model for as little as $650, with a Core 7 120U processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. That's $250 off the retail price. The Book4 Pro 360 model with a fold-back screen, Core 7 155H, 16-inch AMOLED screen, and 16GB/1TB setup is $1,400, a cool $500 off the retail price.
Here are the best gaming monitors of 2023 so far. If you aren't sold on a gaming monitor, check out our recommendations for the best monitors overall or our roundup of the best 4K monitors for additional options.
Updated May 15, 2024 to include the Pixio PX248 Wave as our new pick for the best gaming monitor under $150. Yes, it's possible to get a nice design (with built-in speakers), good color accuracy, and 200Hz motion clarity at a budget price, as you will see in our summary below.
The Fire TV Stick 4K delivers advanced 4K streaming, significantly improving performance and picture quality over previous models.
Whether you're watching the latest blockbuster on Max or binge-watching your favorite Netflix series, you'll enjoy vibrant 4K Ultra HD visuals with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 , and immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
With its Wi-Fi 6 support, the Fire TV Stick 4K ensures smooth and reliable streaming, even when multiple devices are connected to your router. This is especially beneficial for households with high internet traffic, as it allows for uninterrupted streaming.
Your entertainment options are virtually limitless. You can dive into Netflix, Prime Video, Disney , Max, and whatever other streaming platform you favor, including live TV content. Plus, there are over 300,000 movies and shows you can watch for free on ad-supported apps. Oh and if you want even more content, your Fire TV Stick 4K comes with a free six month subscription to MGM .
Of course, this is an Amazon device, so it comes with the Alexa Voice Remote. This allows you to look for content us
To be precise, this HP E27u G4 monitor is on sale for $150 flat, already a huge discount from its $424 retail price. But according to the persistent posters at SlickDeals, you can score an additional $20 off if you're a new customer to the HP online store, create a new account, and wait for a $20 off discount code to hit your inbox. It might take an hour or two, but it's worth it.
Even if you don't feel like waiting around, $150 for a 27-inch, QHD (2560×1440) monitor is already a darn good deal. In addition to USB-C video with up to 65 watts of laptop charging and four USB-A ports for extra gadgets, it's packing standard HDMI and DisplayPort for more conventional connections. The IPS panel is good enough for serious media production thanks to its color accuracy, even if it's not going to be speedy enough for a dedicated gaming monitor.
With a 64 percent discount even before the coupon-cutting, this deal might run out quickly. Get an order in fast if you're ready f
Details on the new display tech are sparse. The 4K panel was spotted on the show floor by Blur Busters and posted to their X profile. (Someone on Twitter got really mad at me for calling it Twitter the other day. Sorry, Twitter user). According to the writeup, this is indeed an LCD panel and seeing it debut at such a high resolution is a bit of a shocker — typically these super-speedy panels start at 1080p before expanding to higher resolutions.
Since this is a trade show display and presumably prototype hardware, there's no telling how long it'll take to actually make it into production LCD panels seen in TCL monitors and elsewhere. And I suppose it's just as well — currently there are no graphics cards on the market that can actually output a 1000Hz, 4K video signal. The newest and most powerful GPUs use HDMI 2.1a and DisplayPort 2.1, which might just have the technical bandwidth to hit that using compress
Why buy a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 docking station? Because of the bandwidth and power it provides. The best USB-C hubs and dongles provide legacy ports (USB-A, microSD, and others) for connecting PC peripherals like mice, printers, external hard drives, and more. But most laptops now include a Thunderbolt port. Thunderbolt docking stations serve as a powerful desktop dock, supplying enough bandwidth via the Thunderbolt port to drive a pair of 4K displays and charge your phone.
This roundup begins with the best Thunderbolt laptop docking stations, including budget and premium options. I also include my favorite DisplayLink USB-C docks — a simpler, cheaper docking station option that you should consider. At the bottom of the article are a FAQ and buying guide to help make sense of it all, including the powerful, upcoming Thunderbolt 5 and the slightly odd Thunderbolt Share.
Why you should trust me: PCWorld has been testing PC hardware since the 1980s, and I've been a technology journa
The EcoFlow Delta 2 boasts a 1024Wh capacity and delivers an 1800W output (with a surge of up to 2700W), making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether camping, traveling in an RV, or enjoying a weekend getaway, this portable power station can charge up to 15 devices simultaneously.
With its remarkable solar efficiency, boasting a 23 percent conversion rate, the Delta 2 allows you to recharge the unit in just 5.1 hours using the two included solar panels. Simply place them in the sun and you'll have a full battery by the time you're done with your daily trail through the forest, making your outdoor adventures more convenient.
Investing in the Delta 2 is a smart choice, as it features LFP batteries with a life cycle of about 3,000 charges. This means you can rely on its service for years, making it a durable and cost-effective power solution for your outdoor activities.
One of the coolest things about the Delta 2 is its ability to power nearly any appliance. With an output comparable to traditional outdoor generators, this solar-powered generator can easily handle 90 percent of your appliances, including a small fridge or some cooking gear.
The trips you have planned off the beaten path this summer will definitely take on new dimensions when you bring the
These elevations serve a very practical purpose: they help you to find the keys and type blind. This technique, also known as blind typing or ten-finger typing, allows you to type faster and more accurately without having to look at the keyboard. It is based on feeling and muscle memory, which allows you to intuitively know the position of each key.
The placement of the bumps on the F and J keys on standard QWERTY and QWERTY keyboards is no coincidence. It serves as an orientation aid for the index fingers of the right and left hand. This makes it possible to find your way around any keyboard without affecting your typing speed. Keyboards with a numeric keypad often also have a raised section on the key with the number 5 to make it easier to navigate the number field.
We've also included some helpful answers to common questions about buying a computer at the bottom of this article. If you're considering a laptop instead, be sure to check out our best laptop deals, updated daily.
Note: Tech deals come and go quickly, so it's possible some of these computer discounts will have expired before this article's next update.
Best gaming desktop computer deals
Alienware Aurora R15, Ryzen 9/RX 7900 XTX/64GB RAM/1TB SSD, $2,149.99 (30% off on Dell)
Like most tech questions, the answer will come down to what you want to do with your laptop and what you're hoping to get out of it. So we'll need to dive into the perks of OLED and the drawbacks so you can properly weigh the value for your own circumstances.
Further reading: The best laptops: Premium, budget, gaming, 2-in-1s, and more
This handy drive has a dual USB 3.2 and USB Type-C interface, giving you a wider range of compatible devices. You can plug and play in any device without a cable or software required and store up to 1TB of data on the drive with ultra-fast 20-30MB/S read and write speed. It's made with a high-quality metal case that is waterproof, dust-proof, and resistant to drops, so it's built for daily wear and tear.
Work more flexibly with your data. Right now, you can get the Dual USB-C USB-A 3.2 High-Speed Flash Drive for 29% off $109 at just $77.99.
The TREBLAB HD-360 dishes out 360º surround sound with 90W peak power to fill your home, campsite, or spot at the beach with immersive, crystal-clear sound. You can connect easily via Bluetooth 5.0 or an NFC-enabled device, pair two speakers together for even better sound, and control your music with a seamless touch interface. It works for up to 20 hours on a single charge, it's IPX4 waterproof, and you can even switch between calls and music should you need to tell someone where to find you.
Dive into summer fun. Right now, you can get the TREBLAB HD-360 Portable Bluetooth Speaker for 37% off $159 at just $99.99.
This bundle includes nine courses from IDUNOVA, an online IT services training organization with more than 20 years of experience. In this bundle, you'll learn pentesting and ethical hacking techniques to assess risks, identify vulnerabilities, and patch them up. There are also courses focused on helping you pass valuable certification exams like CertNexus Cyber Secure Coder (CSC-110), CompTIA PenTest (PT0-002), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) v.12.
Work towards becoming an ethical hacker. Right now, you can get
The problem when looking for a good free VPN, though, is that there are a large number of them available on the Google Play Store. So how do you determine which ones are worth your time? Our experts here at PCWorld have tested a slew of VPNs, both for PCs and Android devices, and have curated a list of the best free options you can feel confident in using. Check out our top picks below.
Why you should trust me: Here at PCWorld we've been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. As the VPN reviewer, I'm continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out my article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you'll find my favorite free VPNs, and below that, helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a VPN for your Android device on your own.
And if you're looking to further upgrade your Android phone's security, which I highly recommend, be sure to look at PCWorld's recommendations for the
This HD weather app has earned 4.6/5 stars on the App Store because it takes you well beyond the basic forecast. The interactive weather radar gives you real-time and future-animated radar images to track 10-day temperatures, rainfall and flooding, snowfall and winter storm conditions, storm alerts, upcoming sudden weather changes, and much more. With just a few clicks, you can get incredibly detailed weather information to help you plan every day accordingly.
Plan for everything this summer. Right now, you can get a lifetime subscription to Weather Hi-Def Radar Storm Watch Plus for 73% off $149 at just $39.99.
FolderFort is an intuitive, high-speed cloud storage that gives you access to your files on any modern browser on any device without any installations needed. With this deal, you'll get 1TB of cloud storage with FolderFort's specialized user interface that allows you to create unlimited workspaces and collaborate with unlimited users. It's easy to organize files, share your files and folders, and access files across devices and platforms. FolderFort is secured by Backblaze, giving you robust encryption, fast speeds, and unlimited safe expansion.
Enjoy a better cloud storage solution. Right now, you can get a lifetime subscription to a FolderFort 1TB Storage
Why you should trust us: It's in our name: PCWorld. We've been reviewing laptops for over 40 years, with exacting standards applied to all facets of the user experience, from performance benchmarks to features to the rigors of daily use. Our experts know their stuff and have curated a comprehensive list of the best laptops for college students, with their particular needs in mind.
After you finish looking over our recommendations, be sure to hit our daily updated roundup of the best laptop deals to try and score your favorite laptops on sale. Or check out our roundup of the best laptops for even more recommendations.
Updated May 17, 2024: We updated the list of recently reviewed laptops underneath our recommendations, and added additional context to various picks throughout.
I've tested numerous VPNs and put their servers from all over the world through countless speed tests to determine the fastest services based on their network averages. I highlight not only the fastest download speeds, but also the fastest upload speeds. Read below to see PCWorld's curated list of the fastest VPNs available now.
Why you should trust me: Here at PCWorld we've been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. I'm continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out the article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you'll find my favorite lightning-fast VPNs and, below those, helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a fast VPN on your own.
If you're looking for even more VPN options, check out my comprehensive roundup of the best VPNs in all categories.
Updated May 17, 2024: Check out my latest review of
Today the company announced that its WD My Passport Ultra, WD_Black P10 Game Drive, and SanDisk G-Drive Armor ATD portable hard drives are all coming in new 6-terabyte capacities. That's about five to ten times the storage capacity of the average new laptop or desktop, available with a USB 3.2 Gen 1, up to for your convenience. It'll take a hell of a long time to actually fill up the drive, but you can do it.
The three different flavors of drive come with different enclosures. The Game Drive is the cheapest of the lot at $189.99, but it has a disappointing "Micro-B" USB connection (that weird MicroUSB type with the extra-wide add-on)
The developers have fixed at least 16 vulnerabilities in Firefox 126.0. Mozilla categorizes two of these vulnerabilities as high risk in its security report . A use-after-free vulnerability (CVE-2024-4764) could come to light and become exploitable if WebRTC is used more intensively (e.g. during video conferences) and a new audio source is added. A missing type check in the built-in PDF viewer PDF.js could open up the possibility of executing arbitrary JavaScript code in this context (CVE-2024-4367).
Some vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to execute injected code. Attacks on Firefox users are not yet known. With the menu item " Help " About Firefox, you can initiate an update check and download the update manually if required.
This is new in Firefox 126
Mozilla advertises on the What's new page that you can edit PDF files in Firefox and in this case means that you can fill out forms. H
For the uninitiated, Nvidia's Deep Learning Super-Sampling and AMD's Fidelity Super Resolution are two flavors of extremely similar technology, using some extremely complicated math to boost a game's effective resolution without the performance hit that usually accompanies it. Typically the technologies are so similar that you can't do both at the same time, to say nothing of the fact that DLSS is exclusive to Nvidia cards while FSR is mostly open.
What's going on with Ghost of Tsushima then? As VideoCardz.com explains, it's taking advantage of the fact that AMD FSR 3.1's has decoupled two performance-boosting techniques, resolution upscaling and frame generation. Frame generation is yet another way of using complex modern chips to give you better performance, by artificially inserting animation frames in between frames that are rendered conventionally by the GPU.
Frame generation has been derided as "fake frames" by some purists who don't want to use extras to boost conventional graphics card performance. But demonstrations have shown a dramatic improvement in the actual
Dragon Age Inquisition is the third game in Bioware's fantasy RPG series, the more swords and sorcery side of the coin opposite Mass Effect. And it's been a good while since they made one — Inquisition came out all the way back in 2014, also released on consoles as old as the Xbox 360 if you can believe it. Even so, it was hailed as a great sequel (particularly following the ho-hum Dragon Age II) and a treat for RPG fans who wanted good writing as well as focused action gameplay.
As always with Epic giveaways, you can claim it for the next week (ending next Thursday, May 23rd) and keep it associated with your account forever, to download and play whenever you want. Not bad for a game that still goes for $40 on Steam, and this "GOTY Edition" includes all the extra DLC missions and the goodies they made you pay extra for at launch. Not bad.
Designed to extend Wi-Fi coverage up to 1500 square feet, the TP-Link AC1200 can support up to a remarkable 30 devices, ensuring a stable and strong Wi-Fi connection throughout the household. Basically, you can connect your laptop, your TV, and all those little smart home gadgets you have lying around.
As you can see in the product picture, the device has a fast Ethernet port, which provides the option for a wired connection. This is perfect for devices that may require a more stable connection for optimal operation, such as your gaming console or smart TV. No one wants to see that loading animation while they're in the middle of something interesting.
The Wi-Fi Extender also gets extra brownie points for being compatible with any router or access point, making your life so much easier since you no longer have to scramble to figure out what mesh to get that will work with your system without changing everything.
On the other hand, the device also supports TP-Link OneMesh, enabling the creation of a mesh network when connected to a OneMesh
We're not suggesting that PC security software is fool-proof, but it does a great job of protecting your computer against harmful malware and ransomware. Most systems come with security software baked into the OS, but this is often the bare minimum you need. Choosing to purchase more robust antivirus software will provide you with features such as an advanced firewall, sandbox environments for suspicious programs, and multi-device protection, among other things.
How do you choose a good antivirus? We've tested a multitude of offerings, including all the big names, so you don't have to! When testing antivirus software, we look for products that strike a balance between excellent protection, a worthwhile selection of features, and minimal performance impact on your PC. For more information, you can read about how we test antivirus software below our picks.
Why you should trust us: PCWorld has been deep in the trenches of testing computer hardware, software, and services since 1983—including security suites. For antivirus apps, we continually evaluate popular or noteworthy software. We consider the user experience, strength of protection against threats (online and offline), and how well it addresses the ever-expanding types of attacks. Our guide on how we test antivirus software at PCWorld gives the f
The price cut is one we love to see because it makes an excellent camera more accessible to everyone, allowing you to purchase more of these to drape over your home so you can check all angles.
The SoloCam S220 doesn't need wires to power up because it has solar charging capabilities. It only takes about three hours of sunlight every day to charge the camera fully. So, unless you live near the poles, you're good to use these Eufy cams.
The camera features infrared LEDs and an f/1.6 aperture, so you'll get clear images even in low-light situations or at night. When your dog starts randomly growling during the wee hours, you can just open the app and check your home's surroundings to see if he just heard the neighbors or if there's actually a security issue.
Setting up the Eufy SoloCam S220 is a breeze. The camera itself is compact and requires no wires. Simply drill it into your home's wall and you're good to go.
One of the standout features of the SoloCam S220 is its ability to detect humans. If you want to take security to the next level and receive notifications about specific individuals at your door, you'll need the HomeBase 3 Eufy security center. While the HomeBase 3 is not current
The PS5 Slim is a powerhouse of a console despite its slim design. With 1TB of SSD storage, players can keep plenty of games — though huge with the size of some of today's games, that number isn't what it used to be. Either way, load times are great, with some games loading virtually instantly.
Gaming on a 4K TV is taken to another level when using the PS5 Slim. The console supports up to 120fps gameplay for compatible games on 4K displays with HDR technology. The visuals are vibrant and full of color, efficiently sucking you right into the worlds you're playing.
The DualSense wireless controller's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers further aid players in having an immersive experience when playing.
Another super cool thing about the PS5 Slim console is its backward compatibility, allowing you to explore thousands of PS4 games. So, if you're just now upgrading to the PS5, you should be able to play most of the games you purchased before.
This special offer on the PlayStation 5 Disc Console Slim - Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Bundle is an exc
That's not to say there aren't some caveats and potential problems worth considering, though. Here are a few of the ways buying a used laptop isn't entirely safe, and what you can do about it.
Switching you phone off completely protects it
Surprisingly, this includes a very simple function: switching off the smartphone completely. According to security experts at the NSA, this alone helps to protect the device from hacking attacks. It is now not only common to gain access to smartphones via malicious links, but also via so-called zero-click exploits.
This involves bypassing the smartphone's security functions step-by-step. Starting with a missed call, then the first installed files that gradually allow access to the system and tap into information. This usually goes unnoticed, but can fortunately be prevented by completely rebooting the device.
So how often should I turn off my phone?
The simple answer from security experts as to how often a mobile phone should be switched off completely is: at least once a week. In the best case scenario, however, yo
Prism Drive offers AES 256-bit and HTTPS encryption for your files both when in transfer and at rest, giving you powerful security for your files. It's easy to upload to the cloud and stay organized with an intuitive user interface. If you need to share files, you can do so with shareable links in just a few clicks.
Enjoy a better cloud storage experience for the web's best price. Right now, you can get 20TB of Prism Drive Secure Cloud Storage for a one-time payment of just $89.97.
Beelinguapp shows you the same exact text in two languages, side by side. Then, it uses karaoke reading to help you follow the audio in the text on both sides, making connections and beginning to understand the new language that you're looking at. You can read fairy tales, news, novels, and more, and delve into 14 languages, including Spanish, German, Korean, and French.
Find out why Beelinguapp Language Learning App was a #4 Product of the Day on Product Hunt and has earned an Editor's Choice ranking on the Google Play Store. From 5/13 through 11:59 pm PT on 5/22, you can get a lifetime subscription to this innovative language learning app for just $29.97 (reg. $100).
For whatever reason, Google left out ChromeOS and Chromebooks entirely from its keynote at Google I/O, which included AI-powered search enhancements and some rather interesting AI tweaks to Gmail. But in the ongoing debate over whether to buy a laptop or a Chromebook, factoring in the most recent advances to Chromebooks matter. This week, Google executives offered up a sneak peek of the cooler new Google technologies coming in the future.
Google calls this Game Controls. The technology was first shown off in 2022 on a limited set of titles, according to Emilie Roberts, developer relations engineer for Google. But it's been revamped with a better editor, and broader coverage across all of the apps in the Play Store. Game Controls is being tested in ChromeOS m125, currently in beta, and will be released to the stable channel "soon," she said.
Why you should trust us: It's in our name. PCWorld prides itself on laptop experience and expertise. We've been covering PCs since 1983, and we now review more than 70 laptops every year. All of the picks below have been personally tested and vetted by our experts, who've applied not only performance benchmarks but rigorous usability standards. We're also committed to reviewing PC laptops at every price point to help you find a machine that matches your budget.
Looking for sweet discounts? Check out our regularly updated roundup of the best laptop deals available right now.
Updated May 8, 2024: We've updated our list of recent laptop reviews, found below our top picks.
Given the restrictions that services such as Netflix put in place against VPNs, you need to choose a service that has active compatibility with that streaming site. It's also a good idea to choose a VPN with generous overall server spread so that if one server is down in the country you are trying to access, there are other options available. The PCWorld staff have thoroughly tested the top VPNs on the market to see how they fare at unblocking the top streaming sites and we've curated our favorites in the list below.
Why you should trust us: Here at PCWorld we've been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. We're continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out our article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you'll find our favorite VPNs, and below those, helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a VPN on your own.
We highly recommend that you use a VPN not only to access location-restricted content, but also to provide one of the best possible upgrades to your online security. So, if you're looking to use your VPN for more than streaming, be sure to check out our comprehensive roundup of the
Since the latest space-saving update, PC Manager has also been searching for very specific optimization requirements on Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers. If PC Manager recognizes that you've preset Google or another non-Microsoft search engine on Windows 11's native Edge browser, it recommends switching to Microsoft's Bing search engine, as Windowslatest reports.
The big culprit is the company's huge AI investments. It takes huge amounts of energy to train and use AI models. The International Energy Agency expects energy consumption for data centers worldwide to increase from 460 TWh in 2022 to between 620 and 1,050 TWh by 2026, due to AI and cryptocurrency use. For context, Sweden's total energy consumption in 2022 was approximately 508 TWh.
As Nvidia says on its blog post, RTX Video combines both algorithm-powered upscaling (boosting the resolution of each video frame by dynamically filling in the intervening space) and translating standard dynamic range frames into high dynamic range with intelligently-boosted color vibrancy and contrast. Your videos should look better even if you don't have an HDR-compatible screen to show them. As we said when we tested the feature at its launch: Nvidia's RTX Video Super Resolution is like going from VHS to Blu-ray.
RTX Video is available on any desktop or laptop with an RTX 30-series card or newer, and you can
Zafro's portable AC is well-suited for rooms up to 450 square feet, offering rapid cooling capabilities that can lower indoor temperatures to a refreshing 61?. This feature is particularly beneficial during heat waves, providing a much-needed respite from the oppressive temperatures outside.
I personally tried a similar model when working from my semi-closed-in patio and I can honestly say I couldn't have survived without it in mid-July. It would have worked even better in an actually insulated room, of course, but even so, the difference was major.
The air conditioner also boasts four operational modes—Cool, Dehumidifier, Fan, and Sleep. Since it has a high-efficiency compressor, the noise level is kept below 45dB. Whether you want to use the Zafro during the night or when working, this low noise feature guarantees a quiet environment.
Installation and operation are straightforward thanks to its portable design with wheels. The unit can be easily moved to any room with a hung or sliding window, where it can be quickly set up with the included hose and window adapter. Even if you have casement windows, there are ways to make this work with a little bit of DIY.
The air conditioner also incorporates a removable and washable double-layer filter, enhancing the indoor air quality by p
Intel hasn't formally launched Lunar Lake yet, but Shenzhen Weibu Information Inc. has published details of what it calls the GP10: an 11-inch handheld gaming PC with an "Intel Lunar Lake chip inside. Weibu will show off the handheld PC at the Computex show in Taiwan that begins the first week of June.
Unlike more well-known handheld PC vendors like Lenovo, MSI, Logitech, Asus ROG, and others, Weibu isn't a big name in the handheld gaming space — in fact, this might be its first handheld gaming PC. Weibu provides OEM/ODM services, meaning that it makes products under contract for its customers to brand and sell.
What's more interesting is that it has what's claimed to be a full-fledged Lunar Lake chip inside. That's unusual; the Lenovo Legion Go 8.8, for example, uses an AMD Ryzen Z1, specifically designed for the handheld gaming market. But MSI debuted the Claw A1M in January at CES, with a Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 in either of the two models, the first major handheld vendor to do so.
The Dell G16 has a heart of gold - and by that I mean a potent Intel Core i9-13900HX processor. That's a last gen CPU, sure, but the newer 14900HX model isn't that much of an improvement, so you can expect top-notch gaming performance. With a whopping 36 MB cache, 24 cores, and 32 threads, the Dell G16 can turbo boost up to 5.40GHz. This means it can handle even the most demanding games and applications with ease. It's a practical choice for gamers who value performance over the latest model hype.
Oh, and that's not all. The Dell G16 has a powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, with 8 GB GDDR6, providing outstanding visuals no matter what flavor gaming you're into. Coupled with a 16-inch, 2560×1600 display that boasts a 240Hz refresh rate, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and Nvidia G-Sync DDS technology, the Dell G16 will transport you right into your favorite gaming world.
Memory and storage are well catered for, with 16GB of DDR5 memory and a 1TB SSD, offering ample space and speed for all your games and programs. Sure, we'd have loved to see more RAM in there so you can load up on all the Skyrim mods, but 16GB is perfectly adequate. You can also easily pop in another 16GB memory stick since the max is 32GB and there are two slots to fill in.
While not the absolute lowest price we've seen—the speaker has dipped to $44.95 previously—this offer still presents a significant saving for those looking to enhance their summer activities with quality sound.
This compact speaker delivers surprisingly big audio and punchy bass for its small size. You can definitely rock out to your favorite tracks, dance away through the garden when tending to the flowers or trimming the grass, or do whatever else you want to do. Heck, it's going to be perfect for barbecues, too, since it's not loud enough for the whole neighborhood to dance to your 90s hits Spotify playlist - what, just me? Ok then.
The JBL Clip 4 is also ideal for beach trips or lounging by the pool since it has an IP67 water resistance rating. One of the standout features of the JBL Clip 4 is its integrated carabiner. Simply hook it up to your backpack and you're good to go wherever you want (although please, please don't use this on public transport).
The battery life on the Clip 4 is also pretty awesome with up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge, making it perfect for a whole day spent in the sunshine.
The JBL Clip 4 at $49.95 is definitely a good bargain. You'll end up with a speaker that provides high-quality sound, plus it's durable and super portable.
Unfortunately, in this modern world, the webcam is more important than ever. Chances are you're all too familiar with the terms, "Zoom" and "Teams" which now mean something totally different than they did 15 years ago. More people are working from home, and even those in the office are still attending remote meetings. And if you're a professional, you want to look good. So why does your laptop's webcam make you look terrible, and what can you do about it?
Normally, this suite — our favorite antivirus software — costs $120 for a 12-month subscription. First-time subscribers can get it for $50, but that only lasts for the first year.
Norton 360 Deluxe is one of the best antivirus suites if you're looking for an all-in-one package. It bundles together antivirus and firewall protection with a password manager, VPN service, dark web monitoring, parental controls, and cloud storage in a centralized interface. And its ability to block malware and other online threats is stronger than Windows'.
These deals will work for existing subscribers to Norton 360, though you'll need to wait until your current subscription term to end. (Make sure auto renewal is turned off.) Afterward, you can redeem the code in your account.
For the full rundown on Norton 360 Deluxe (including everything you get), check out our review for all the details. But don't wait too long to grab this deal—it won't last forever.
Microsoft Project has earned 4.4/5 stars from Capterra and GetApp because it's an easy-to-use tool to manage everything from small tasks to large, complex projects. It gives you timelines, budgets, resources, and pre-built templates to help you keep your projects on the right track. You can leverage automated tools for scheduling and reporting to reduce inefficiencies, draw better insights, and stay organized throughout your projects. It's an all-in-one tool to simplify all kinds of projects.
Become a better project manager with Microsoft Project Professional 2021 for Windows. From 5/13 through 11:59 pm PT on 5/22, you can get it for just $19.97 (reg. $249).
Shenzhen Weibu Information Inc. has published details of what it calls the GP10: an 11-inch handheld gaming PC with an Intel "Lunar Lake" chip inside. Weibu will show off the handheld PC at the Computex show in Taiwan that begins the first week of June.
Unlike more well-known handheld PC vendors like Lenovo, MSI, Logitech, Asus ROG, and others, Weibu isn't a big name in the handheld gaming space — in fact, this might be its first handheld gaming PC. Weibu provides OEM/ODM services, meaning that it makes products under contract for its customers to brand and sell.
What's more interesting is that it has what's claimed to be a full-fledged Lunar Lake chip inside. That's unusual; the Lenovo Legion Go 8.8, for example, uses an AMD Ryzen Z1, specifically designed for the handheld gaming market. But MSI debuted the Claw A1M in January at CES, with a Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 in either of the two models, the first major handheld vendor to do so.
To date, the Claw A1M is basically the only Intel Core-based handheld PC. Which le
The adjustable tablet stand moves 180º, is adjustable for your posture, and is foldable for easy storage when not in use. It comes equipped with eight ports to extend the capabilities of your tablet. You can connect to multiple peripherals at once via three USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI 2.0 port, an SD/microSD slot, a 3.5mm audio port, and a PD/100W charging port. It's a simple way to set up your perfect working situation, no matter where you are.
Upgrade your hybrid work abilities with this 8-in-1 Tablet Docking Stand. Right now, you can get it for 21% off $69 at just $54.99.
If you still prefer Windows laptops, you'll definitely want to check out PCWorld's roundup of the best laptops available today.
Why you should trust us: PCWorld has been going strong since 1983, back in the days when print magazines were more common. Now that we've made the leap to digital, we've been reviewing more than 70 laptops every year. Every laptop that passes through our doors goes through an arduous testing process, in which we evaluate everything from processor performance to display quality. We're committed to reviewing laptops in every price range too.
Update May 15, 2024: We updated our list of recently reviewed laptops below our best picks. Also note that Google Photos' best AI editing tools are coming to Chromebooks, but not Windows PCs.
But actually buying one can be a daunting experience. There are hundreds of options out there with a staggering array of features and price points — and that's just the ones from the major brands. Which is where this guide comes in. We've tested the latest, greatest, and not-so-great gaming keyboards on the market, so you can find the best one for you and your battlestation.
Why you should trust us: PCWorld has been the go-to name for personal computer news and reviews for over 40 years. And as the writer of this roundup, and the reviewer of most of the keyboards on this list, I can assure you our picks have been thoroughly tested by people who are absolutely obsessed with keyboards.
Every single keyboard on this list has been used by an expert, put through its paces for features and reliability, and carefully considered against the alternatives. We've tested every facet of the boards, even programming and complete disassembly for those that support it. And there are plenty that don't make the cut, like the pleasingly yellow but unfortunately pedestrian Ducky One III SF.
For a more in-depth look at how we test keyboards of every kind, check out our dedicated article covering our keyboard review process.
There's just one catch to this deal: it's a refurb. And frankly since this Alienware-branded monster was just released back in January (to an Editor's Choice review from our monitor expert Matt Smith, no less!), that's still a pretty darn good deal. Also note that this is a 32-inch, 4K OLED monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It's not to be confused with the very similar Alienware 34-inch ultrawide OLED, 21:9 and lower resolution, which also sells for $800 on a regular basis.
In addition to a subtle curve and that massive 3840×2160 resolution, the AW3225QF has a super-fast 240Hz refresh rate, Nvidia G-Sync capability, DolbyVision, and a bunch of other stuff that basically means it looks freakin' awesome. Ports include DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, a second HDMI port with e
Microsoft also said that the mouse-and-keyboard experience will also be accessible via the Microsoft Xbox app for Windows later this month.
Mouse and keyboard support has existed for years on the Xbox, though only on titles that supported them. On the PC, you'll need to have either the Google Chrome or the Microsoft Edge browser installed, plus, of course, a mouse and keyboard. Even then, there will only (?) be 26 titles that Microsoft will support with a mouse and keyboard:
ARK Survival Evolved
Atomic Heart
Cities: Skylines - Mayor's Edition
Cities: Skylines - Remastered
Deep Rock Galactic
Doom 64
Fortnite (browser only)
Gears Tactics
Grounded
Halo Infinite
High on Life
House Flipper
Inkulinati (Game Preview)
Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
Norco
Pentiment
Quake
Quake 2
Sea of Thieves
Slime Rancher 2
Sniper Elite 5
State of Decay 2
Terraria
The Sims 4
Valheim (Game Preview)
Many SSDs come in a 2.5-inch form factor and connect to your PC via the same SATA port used by a traditional hard drive. But tiny NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) "gumstick" SSDs that fit in an M.2 connection on a modern motherboard are becoming increasingly common, along with blazing-fast PCIe 4.0 (and now 5.0) solid-state drives for compatible PCs; you'll even find SSDs that sit on a PCIe adapter and slot into your motherboard like a graphics card or sound card. No, picking the perfect SSD isn't as simple as it used to be.
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But wait, isn't "web search" what you're supposed to get with a standard Google query, without any need to click on a secondary tab? Yes and no. Google's official SearchLiason Twitter account explains that the Web tab filters results so that only text-based results will be returned, stripping out images, videos, shopping products, maps, and all the other allegedly helpful modern additions to Google. It's practically a time machine to when searching the web really did focus on text, without a huge amount of additional context and add-ons.
Crucially, this is also going to strip out a lot of the extras that Google has been building into search in the "All" tab, for reasons both customer-facing and profit-driven. In addition to standard advertising, Google has been sticking more and more modules into search, crowding out conventional text-driven web results. This is only going to get more visible with the new Gemini-driven AI additions Google showed off yesterday at Google I/O.
And standard users aren't the only ones who are complaining. The adulteration of "pure" text search with auto-generated results keeps Goo
Thunderbolt Share is a new Intel specification that connects two PCs via a cable, one to each Thunderbolt port. Alternatively, you can connect it to a Thunderbolt dock instead. Thunderbolt Share offers several options, all at blazing 40Gbps or higher speeds: control another PC, transfer files, sync them, or even migrate one PC to another. Is it a killer sneakernet replacement? Sure seems like it for local networks.
The idea? You or your family own more than one PC. If they're Thunderbolt-capable, Share will unlock a number of handy additional sharing capabilities without needing to set up a workgroup, a network switch, or any other solution. Dock makers, too, will see an advantage: suddenly, Thunderbolt hubs like the Plugable 5-in-1 Thunderbolt Hub (USB4-HUB3A), part of our list of the best Thunderbolt docking stations, won't just be designed primarily for external displays with Thunderbolt ports.
There's just one thing. Intel didn't take the simple route and just make Thunderbolt Share part of the Thunderbolt spec. Instead, Thunderbolt Share will be a software app Intel will license to PC and dock makers. And it won't work for legacy Thunderbolt 3 or USB devices either — not officially, anyway. In short, you'll have to keep track of which devices are Thunderbolt Share-capable, because without one, Thunderbolt Share won't work. A special logo, however, will help.
A leaked internal slideshow and spec list shows Dell's own testing for laptops based on Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon X architecture. These laptops are coming later this year from a variety of vendors. Crucially, this info includes Dell's battery life estimates meant to be shared among its own employees — not the usual battery life estimates shared with promotional material, which is often generous as best.
According to the leaked info posted to VideoCardz.com, which has a strong track record for PC industry leaks, a laptop designed with Qualcomm's SC8380XP system-on-a-chip and a typical HD screen and a 55-watt hour battery managed 20.4 hours of Netflix video streaming. An identical design with Intel parts (the only major difference being the CPU and wireless radio) managed 12.63 hours on the same test.
A dead-simple, wonderfully nifty test offers a quick and reliable way to check the actual charge state of a battery, keeping you from rashly discarding good batteries or buying new ones unnecessarily.
Battery full or flat? This simple test reveals it
All you need for this test is the battery you want to check. If available, have a new, fully charged battery ready to compare the results. This is how it works:
Make sure you have a flat and firm surface, such as a table, in front of you.
Drop the battery vertically onto the surface from a height of about 20 centimeters (roughly 8 inches).
Pay close attention to how the battery hits the surface and how it behaves afterwards: A fully charged battery usually tips over and stays put. An empty battery, on the other hand, often bounces back a little and bounces up a few centimeters.
Why? Alkaline batteries contain a gel-like substance that absorbs the impact when fully charged. When the battery is flat, this substance dries out and hardens, making the battery more likely to bounce back.
Extend battery life with these 4 tips
Switch off devices correctly: Make sure you switch devices off completely when
The Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd gen is a massive 55-inch behemoth with a 1000R curved display. Whether you're playing some World of Warcraft with your guildies or shooting up zombies, you'll be sucked right into that world thanks to the stunning 4K visuals. They're made even more luscious thanks to the inclusion of quantum mini-LED backlighting, an OLED alternative, and the HDR10 support that technology unlocks.
Gamers will also appreciate the blistering 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, which translate into buttery smooth visuals. Plus, the AMD FreeSync Premium Pro promises tear-free and stutter-free gameplay.
Of course, the Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd gen isn't just for gaming. You can connect up to four different devices at the same time, switching between them as needed. Frankly, that's ideal for all those gaming sessions you squeeze in between work meetings (it's not just me who does that, right?). Thanks to the Multi View feature, you can keep an eye on your work chat while playing.
One super cool thing is that the Ark has a built-in KVM switch, which enables you to control multiple PCs with a single mouse and keyboard, efficiently simplifying your workflow. Simply brilliant.
In my basement office, I listened to what Google presented at Google I/O. I heard executives talk about search, Android, and Project Astra: a future multimodal "universal agent" that can understand audio and video, built around versions of Gemini both large and small. One million tokens is a big deal, right?
I guess. But to whom?
What I heard at Google I/O was a future that…is still in the future, for a price that most people can't afford, and with features that were developed by Google employees for Google employees. It's a Google that, more and more, seems to have lost the plot.
Everything's not here yet
For the most part, what Google presented at Google I/O was science fiction. Instead of showing us what the future is, now, Google showed us what it might bring, tomorrow. It's a future hidden behind jargon, inside developer previews and experiments within Google.Labs — and even then, those experiments aren't scheduled to actually begin until sometime in the future. Remember, this is a company with a well-established penchant for development ADD, where products go to die when their developers lose interest. Do I think that Google doesn't believe in AI? Of course not. But I'm not convinced that anything Google showed Tuesday will make its way into the real world, either.
(Remember Google's ultra-realistic videoconferencing tool, Project Starline? It debuted at Google I/O 2021.
Yes, I understand that the price you see on the product page may be different. However, when you apply the promotional code CD3N56TO at checkout, you'll be pleasantly surprised to see an additional 10 percent discount. This means that the $129.99 power bank is now available for just $62.98. It's like magic! It's also the best price this power bank has seen thus far.
What makes the Baseus Blade special? So many things. The Blade boasts a 20000mAh battery that supports 100W fast charging, allowing you to recharge a third of your laptop's battery in just half an hour.
I personally use the Blade 2, which has a 12000mAh battery and 60W charging, and I can't help but wish I had the first model instead.
The original Baseus Blade also has more ports. It features two USB-C ports that support 100W output and 65W input, so you can plug in pretty much any device you own. There are also two fast-charging USB-A ports for those who like a more traditional approach.
One of the things I enjoy the most about the Blade, however (and I'm sure you will too), is that it's super slim and light. This power bank looks like it's been on a diet its entire "life" since it's only 0.7 inches thick. It will fit in nicely in the same sleeve as your laptop does. It's also just
Don't be fooled by its compact size; the Bluetti EB3A is a true powerhouse. With a robust 600W AC inverter and a 268Wh battery pack, it's more than capable of breathing life into your gadgets. If you plug in one of those mini-fridges, it will even keep your… "juice" cold for a few hours.
Plus, it's so lightweight and compact that you can easily carry it around in one hand, making it the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.
The coolest part about the Bluetti EB3A is that it features nine outlets, allowing you to charge all sorts of devices. There are two AC outlets, two USB-A, one Type-C port, and even a wireless charger, so you can use the power station as a table for your phone and have it ready for your next doom-scrolling session in no time.
Those who love going off the grid can get the Bluetti EB3A and pair it with a solar panel. In fact, there's a bundle that's almost $200 off right now, pairing the EB3A with a 120W solar panel that is super easy to carry anywhere.
Of course, this setup is also excellent for home use, especially when there are power outages, and you need to keep your devices alive un
How to change the color of the Windows taskbar
Open the Windows Settings via the Start menu and click on Personalization and then Colors. In the menu next to Select Mode, set the option Custom and change Select Default Windows mode to Dark-you can only select the color of the taskbar yourself in dark mode.
The good news for iPhone 15 chargers (unlike Samsung Galaxy owners) is you don't need to take a night-class in chargers to figure it out.
Just buy this charger for the iPhone 15
In fact, I'll break it down in the easiest possible way for those who want the elevator pitch: Just buy this $15 Anker 511 GAN charger that's tiny and can charge your phone at its maximum rate.
I'm a big fan of the Anker 511 Nano 3 and have personally purchased at least four of them for personal use and "loans" to family members, who I have realized follow the book rule—you never lend books to people (because you never get them back).
Rated 4.5/5 stars by purchasers, Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019 includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access. Microsoft Office Home and Business for Mac come with each of these except Publisher and Access.
It's all the programs you need to work efficiently on just about any project, from Word documents and number crunching to presentations and communication. Whether you're in marketing, analysis, sales, HR, or virtually any other position, you'll have the tools you need to do your job better.
This adapter comes with a USB cable but can connect to most modern cars by Bluetooth (and its dual-connect tech allows it to pair with a second device the same way). It's pre-loaded with media apps like Netflix and YouTube, so all you have to do is sign in on your phone to get started. It has 16GB of storage for pre-loaded videos and you can expand that memory with a TF card (not included).
Get this Auto Wireless Car Adapter for $99.99 (reg. $149.99).
Microsoft's latest release for May 2024 (KB5037771 or OS builds 22621.3593 and 22631.3593) has just one highlight: "This update addresses a known issue that might cause your VPN connection to fail," it says. "This occurs after you install the update dated April 9, 2024, or later."
A similar update patches Windows 10, too. The update will automatically update via Windows Update, although you can check the update history to see if your PC has downloaded it.
Microsoft said earlier this month that its April update to Windows 10 and 11 could unexpectedly break VPNs, and that there was no patch available at the time. Microsoft said then that it was working to resolve the issue, and to explain why the bug occurred.
Microsoft said this week that the most recent Windows security update for Windows 10 and Windows 11 may break VPN connections.
According to Microsoft (via Bleeping Computer), "Windows devices might face VPN connection failures after installing the April 2024 security update, or KB5036893."
Microsoft has no fix at the current time, the company said. "We are working on a resolution and will provide an update in an upcoming release," the company said.
Unfortunately, the list of affected clients is rather lengthy: Windows 11 (23H2, 22H2, and 21H2) as well as Windows 10 (22H2 and 21H2). If you're a consumer and run into this issue, Microsoft advises that you first launch the Windows "Get Help" app to inform Microsoft of the problem and possibly work through a solution.
It's an important evolution, one that recognizes that the reason Gmail became so popular is because email is intrinsically complex, with questions and replies and attachments all over the place. Google is using its Gemini AI search to help make sense of it all.
But — and this is a big but — this isn't here yet. It will roll out in Google's Labs workspace this fall. And even then, consumers will have to pay a whopping $19.95 per user per month for the Google AI Premium plan that makes it all happen.
Gmail Q&A
In a demonstration, Aparna Pappu, Google's vice president of Workspace, explained how integrating Gemini could be used to quickly catch up on an email chain. In a demo, Pappu asked Gemini to sum up an exchange with a roofer, including what the proposed project would cost.
Gemini did so, but it went much further: it also was able to sum up competing quotes from other contractors and present them in a unified format. Gemini then proposed several replies, and let Pappu pick what response she would send back. It's a capability that Google will roll out this month as part of its Labs.Google beta program, while the contextual replies will be added (again, in Labs) in July.
What does that mean for regular users? More or less, it's all about smarter searching that pulls more and deeper information from more websites, and organizes it in smart ways. It all starts with "AI Overviews," the new, fancy version of the Rich Results you currently see before (and sometimes to the right of) standard text results. AI Overview will soon be graduating from the Search Labs walled-off area to standard users in the US, with Google hoping to expand it to "over a billion people by the end of the year."
These auto-generated results created from indexed and crawled websites will include the familiar "people also ask" queries, shopping results (which, of course, earn Google some ad revenue), and results for more complex questions phrased in natural language. The
There are a few things you'll want to consider when looking for a VPN: First, it should be able to keep your internet usage private and secure without leaks. Speed is another factor — privacy and security are crucial, but you don't want the service to cripple your internet speed either. And if you're concerned with anonymity, you should seek out a VPN with data collection policies that are clear and transparent. Finally, the number of available servers and country locations a VPN offers is worth bearing in mind if you're trying to get around region locks in specific countries.
Why you should trust us: Here at PCWorld we've been testing computer hardware, software, and services since the 1980s. We're continually testing all of the major VPNs on the market and many lesser-known services in order to curate a list of the very best VPNs across a variety of categories. For a more in-depth guide, you can check out our article on how we test VPN services at PCWorld. Below you'll find our favorite VPNs and additional information about how we test these services as well as helpful advice about what to look for when choosing a VPN on your own.
The details of USB-C can be confusing, however, and pricing for USB-C monitors is often higher than that for monitors that lack the interface. See our buyers' guide below our recommendations to better understand the nuances.
For even more monitor recommendations, check out our roundups of the best monitors and the best monitors for a home office. And while you're at it, check out our list of best monitor arms so you can optimize the ergonomics and comfort of your desk setup while viewing that brand new monitor.
Updated May 14, 2024: Check out our review of the BenQ PD3225U, which offers the com
Once again Google is recommending that users immediately update their browsers to apply the fix, which went out yesterday. According to the Chrome release blog (spotted by Bleeping Computer), this is a high-priority fix for an out of bounds write error, and yes, it's being exploited in the deep, dark wilds of the web.
Of course it's better that security flaws be fixed than, well, not fixed, but there seem to be just a ton of high-profile issues popping up with Chrome as of late. Even so, it remains the number one browser on the planet on both mobile and desktop platforms by a wide margin. Don't wait too long to click that update button.
To patch Chrome immediately, head to Options Help About Google Chrome. Wait for the update to download and reset your browser when instructed.
For more notebook options, check out PCWorld's roundup of the best laptops available right now. We've got can't-miss picks for every use case and budget, putting our thousands of hours of hands-on testing to work for you.
Best laptop deals (at a glance)
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3, $329
A dead-simple, wonderfully nifty test offers a quick and reliable way to check the actual charge state of a battery, keeping you from rashly discarding good batteries or buying new ones unnecessarily.
Battery full or flat? This simple test reveals it
All you need for this test is the battery you want to check. If available, have a new, fully charged battery ready to compare the results. This is how it works:
Make sure you have a flat and firm surface, such as a table, in front of you.
Drop the battery vertically onto the surface from a height of about 20 centimeters (roughly 8 inches).
Pay close attention to how the battery hits the surface and how it behaves afterwards: A fully charged battery usually tips over and stays put. An empty battery, on the other hand, often bounces back a little and bounces up a few centimeters.
Why? Alkaline batteries contain a gel-like substance that absorbs the impact when fully charged. When the battery is flat, this substance dries out and hardens, making the battery more likely to bounce back.
Extend battery life with these 4 tips
Switch off devices correctly: Make sure you switch devices off completely when they are not in use. Even in standby mode, some devices can continue to consume energy, which puts unnecessary strain on the batteries.
Remove batteries: If you are not using an appliance for an extended pe
As we wait for all the legal issues to resolve, now is a good time to stay two steps ahead, and ponder a fundamental question: If the ban does go into effect, could a VPN help you get around the new restrictions?
Much of the answer keys into the specific nature of the ban—namely, that app stores in the U.S. would ostensibly be forced to remove the TikTok app from their marketplaces. If that's how the ban plays out, then theoretically a VPN should put you back in business, with the caveat that you'll already need to have the TikTok app installed prior to the ban.
There's a lot to unpack here, including what the law would require of TikTok, and how technically savvy users could respond. Read on for details. And if you're looking for a VPN to make your digital life more more secure—or, who knows, preserve TikTok access—check out my rankings of the best VPNs.
How would a TikTok ban likely play out?
The short but frustrating answer is that no one knows exactly how a TikTok ban would be implemented. While the law was passed and signed by president Biden, the actual details are still being worked o
While I'm a ride-or-die fan of Windows on my PCs and Android on my phones, I have to begrudgingly admit that Apple rules the roost when it comes to tablets. That's why there's a 4th-gen iPad Air on my desk right now. Don't tell any of my colleagues over at Macworld, they'll never let me hear the end of it.
The one Amazon has on sale gets a much speedier M1 processor, the same one that went into its first-gen Arm Macbooks, though to be honest you won't even need that power unless you're running the tablet version of Photoshop (which is an option). The fingerprint reader for login is a nice touch, but personally I'm just glad it uses a USB-C cable so I don't have to buy new Lightning chargers.
Amazon is selling the 64GB blue and purple models for $399, an impressive 33 percent off the $600 retail price. Other versions are also discounted: you can get pink, grey, or "starlight" (read: kinda gold-ish) for $449, or take smaller discounts on upgraded models with 256GB of storage and/or a 5G cellular connection.
Nine models are on sale at the moment. If you need one for as little scratch as possible, then the Asus Chromebook CM14 should be your first port of call. This 14-inch model is powered by a MediaTek Arm processor with just 4GB of memory, so it might chug a bit if you throw dozens of tabs at it. But with a 1080p screen and a power-sipping setup, it should let you browse for the better part of a day at least. And at $149 flat, a full 50 percent off the sticker price, it's an undeniable bargain.
If you're looking for something a little more flexible, then the
You and I just don't have enough money for them. However, for a multitude of mom-and-pop scammers, we do.
That point became clear during the 2024 RSA Conference in San Francisco, where members of Microsoft's security teams spoke with the press on cybersecurity topics, including the most current threats to everyday people. While you could still get caught up in a ransomware campaign, the main targets nowadays are companies big enough to pay multimillions but too small to have robust IT security teams.
Instead, Sherrod DeGrippo, director of threat intelligence strategy at Microsoft, says you should watch most for seemingly innocuous tricks that play on your emotions: romance schemes, influencer scams, banking hoaxes, and other such deviousness.
Romance scams, for example, involve gaining someone's trust and affection, and then using the relationship to start asking for money.
Influencer scams twist people's legitimate desire to earn a living into fronting money for opportunities that never pan out — and potentially expose the victims to identity theft if tax identification numbers and other personal details are shared.
If you're buying a laptop, you'll get the most value from focusing on sales. Let's say you have $1200 to spend on a gaming laptop. The best gaming laptop for your dollar might not be a $1200 laptop at all — it might be a $1600 laptop that's currently $500 off.
In fact, the best value may be snatching up last year's laptop on a clearance sale. Laptop hardware isn't advancing very quickly year over year. A laptop from last year might be roughly as good as one from this year — and half off, too.
Using Resso.ai, you can create resumes and cover letters that highlight exactly the skills and qualifications you need for a specific job type. The service can also tweak your LinkedIn profile to attract your preferred employers, and you can even practice for that important interview by fielding questions from an AI interlocutor. It's especially helpful for new graduates just entering the workforce (as its 100,000 student users can attest), but it can give a leg up to anyone who wants to increase their hireability.
Right now, you can get a lifetime subscription to the Resso Professional Plan for $79.99 (reg. $540).
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