Latest news with #Windows7
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Yahoo
Microsoft's mocking Apple's Liquid Glass UI design, but the joke might be on Windows
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. "Delightful", "elegant" and "modern" were the three main adjectives Apple used when it launched its new Liquid Glass UI design for iOS 26, iPadOS 26 and MacOS Tahoe 26 at Apple WWDC 2025 event this week. But for some the transparent elements looked positively retro. While the Cupertino tech giant sees VisionOS as the main inspiration, there were immediate comparisons to much older software that dates back to before even the iPhone (along with big, big controversy over the corner radiuses in MacOS Tahoe 26). Even Microsoft is suggesting that Apple stole the idea from Windows Vista, but the joke may have backfired. The official Windows account on TikTok was quick to respond to Apple's new UI, dropping a video compilation of screenshots from Windows Vista and Windows 7 with the text 'Just gonna to leave this here". Back in 2006, Windows Vista introduced Microsoft's Aero UI design language, which included glass-like translucent borders that showed content behind windows. Windows 7 built on the look, but the transparent aesthetic was dropped for Windows 8. This kind of trolling goes down a storm on TikTok, and it's quickly become one of the account's most-watched recent videos with 1.5m views and over 5,000 comments. I guess it shows some personality for a brand that tends to be quite dry, but mocking rivals can quickly get cringey – just look at Pepsi's obsession with Coca-Cola. Apple does have a tendency to launch things that already existed and brand them as new and revolutionary (Apple Intelligence, anyone), but I'm not convinced Vista was its inspiration here. And for some followers, the Windows account's jesting is reminding them where Microsoft went wrong. "OK, now bring it back, and we'll forgive you for Windows 8," one person responds. "Dropping this style was a mistake," another person writes. Image 1 of 2 Image 2 of 2 Others suggest the comparison doesn't hold water as Window's Aero Glass was merely superficial, while Apple's Liquid Glass is about more than just transparent elements. "Apple made a new real glass software that uses hardware acceleration and real life physics, real reflections and distortion and blur, but Windows think they copied them when they look nothing the same, and guess what? They will copy it eventually," one person argued. "It's not always about being the first to do it but being the one that does it well," another person suggests, effectively summarising Apple's philosophy. "It took 8,000 errors, 2,500 virus y 700 blue screens to make this video," someone else jested. Others argue that Windows Vista was itself inspired by MacOS aqua from six years earlier. Perhaps we need a new adage: people who design glass UIs shouldn't throw bricks. For more UI design news, see the Apple Design Awards 2025 and the Switch 2 eShop upgrade.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Marion County Commissioners earmark $60K for three parks
FAIRMONT — Marion County Commissioner have set aside $60,000, enough for three playgrounds across the county. But residents have to make themselves heard if they want those playgrounds to become a reality. 'We don't want to waste taxpayers money if you don't have a need,' Commissioner Linda Longstreth said. 'So if we don't have the feedback, we don't want to go there. We can use it for better things in the community.' Commissioner Bobby DeVaul brought up the idea at the last commission meeting. He said after viewing the success of installing a playground at the Marion County Soccer Complex on US 250 North, he wanted to replicate that success at other locations in Marion County. Commission President Ernie VanGilder said during the meeting that playgrounds would cost $20,000 each. 'We're looking at maybe doing three separate playgrounds,' VanGilder said. 'We're going to reach out to the community for where people feel they need them most.' Longstreth added they don't want to throw money out and say, 'here's a playground.' She said the commissioners want to know what's important to residents in their communities and make their decisions based on that. If it turns out demand in the community isn't for a playground but for something else, it's something commissioners will take into consideration. County Commissioners will collect feedback by phone and through its website for about a month. Longstreth said a form will be available online at the commission's website for Marion County residents to fill out, but residents who don't have reliable internet access can call 304-367-5400 to give feedback. The County is also working on modernizing its election software. The County uses Windows 7 for their equipment, which Microsoft ceased writing updates for in 2020. Cam Wilson, regional sales manager for Omaha, Neb.-based Election Systems and Software, said election security is at the top of everyone's minds. There's only a handful of jurisdictions in the country that still run Windows 7, Wilson said. County Clerk Julie Kincaid said no one's voting experience will change substantially after the updates are finished. 'They will be depositing their ballot into a reader that will be located in the precinct instead of feeding it back into the machine when they're finished voting,' Kincaid said. 'That will be about the only difference anyone's going to see with the upcoming election.' Wilson added the new software will speed up the process and make it quicker to open and close the polls. Kincaid said the county is paying roughly $400,000 for the upgrades, split into two payments. She said replacing the fleet of equipment instead of merely upgrading the software would cost the county about $2 million. 'We're very blessed we can make this upgrade with that amount of money and still continue to provide correct, and somewhat speedy, elections for Marion County,' Kincaid said. 'We want the latest equipment so we can provide these elections to the public without any issues.'
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Windows 11 22H2 and 23H2 Are Getting New Features
Microsoft is releasing updates for Windows 11 versions 23H2 and 22H2 to keep users up to date. The updates include shortcuts like Win + C and a new FAQs section within the OS settings menu. It's still best to update to 24H2 now for more features and security, with 25H2 on the way. When Microsoft releases a new major update to Windows 11, the company wants you to update your computer, and therefore quickly deprecates the previous versions. In a relatively rare move, Microsoft is rolling out a few updates to Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2. Microsoft has released a non-security update for Windows 11 23H2 and Windows 11 22H2. These updates first came out in late 2023 and late 2022, respectively. 22H2 was deprecated last year, in October 2024, while 23H2 is scheduled to reach end-of-life on November 11 this year. So it's pretty surprising to see Microsoft release updates for these two versions in the first place, and the fact that they're feature updates rather than just security updates adds to the weirdness. So what's exactly in this update? For one, Microsoft is adding the Win + C shortcut, which fires up Copilot, to these two older versions. Because your operating system might be deprecated, but Microsoft doesn't want you to miss out on easier ways to access Copilot. I wouldn't be surprised if this is the reason Microsoft wanted to roll out this particular update to older versions. When the company wants to push something to users, it goes all the way. In case you don't remember, back when Microsoft released the Chromium-based version of Microsoft Edge, the company famously pushed the update to Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 users, despite the fact Windows 7 was not receiving updates anymore. It's not the only addition, at least. Microsoft has added a new FAQs section directly within the OS' settings menu. By going under System and then on the About page, this section can give you a few quick answers to commonly asked questions regarding your PC and the Windows 11 operating system itself. Another user-facing improvement focuses on file sharing. When you drag a local file from File Explorer or the desktop, a new tray interface will now appear at the top of the screen. This will display suggested applications for quickly sharing or opening the file. If the app you're looking for isn't immediately suggested, you can select a "More" option, which will then open the standard Windows share window to give you more options for sharing or opening. Your best course of action is to take the 24H2 update now. It's free, it will give you a lot more features, and it will keep your PC safe for another year. 25H2 is also getting close. This is a preview update, and a more finalized version should roll out to your computer within the next few weeks if you have one of these versions. Source: Microsoft
Time Business News
19-05-2025
- Time Business News
Unlocking Windows and Office: How KMSPico Offers a Cost-Free Solution
When it comes to activating Microsoft Windows or Office, most users hit the same snag — the high cost of official licenses. Genuine product keys can be expensive, and not everyone can afford to shell out hundreds of dollars just to get past the activation screen. If you find yourself stuck in this situation, KMSPico offers an alternative that's caught the attention of millions around the world. In simple terms, KMSPico is a tool designed to activate Windows and Office software without needing a traditional product key. It works by emulating Microsoft's Key Management Service (KMS) activation process locally on your PC. This means your system 'thinks' it's been properly licensed, giving you full access to all features without the official price tag. If you're curious to try it out, a safe KMSPico is available from trusted online communities. You might wonder why activation is such a big deal. The truth is, until your copy of Windows or Office is activated, you're locked out of certain features — things like personalization, updates, and sometimes even basic functionality. Microsoft uses activation to verify you're running a legitimate copy. For many users, especially students or freelancers, paying for a full license just to get these basic features unlocked can be tough. That's why tools like KMSPico have become a go-to solution for those wanting to unlock their system without emptying their wallets. Unlike other complicated methods that require manual input of long product keys, KMSPico is incredibly straightforward. Here's what sets it apart: One-Click Activation: Just launch the tool and click a button. It does the rest automatically, no confusing codes or tech skills needed. Just launch the tool and click a button. It does the rest automatically, no confusing codes or tech skills needed. Works Offline: You don't need to be connected to the internet, which is a huge bonus for users with unstable or no internet access. You don't need to be connected to the internet, which is a huge bonus for users with unstable or no internet access. Long-Lasting Activation: Once activated, your system won't suddenly deactivate or nag you again. Once activated, your system won't suddenly deactivate or nag you again. Wide Support: Whether you're using Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11, or Office 2016, 2019, or 2021, KMSPico has you covered. Whether you're using Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11, or Office 2016, 2019, or 2021, has you covered. Free: No charges, no subscriptions, just a clean, effective activation. Looking for the latest version? Just find a trusted KMSPico Download from reputable sources. In a nutshell, KMSPico tricks your computer into believing it's connected to a legitimate Microsoft KMS server. Normally, large organizations use KMS servers to manage volume licenses, activating many computers at once. KMSPico creates a local server on your PC that mimics this setup, fooling Windows and Office into thinking the license is genuine. This process activates your software without requiring any actual product key or internet validation with Microsoft. A big concern people have is security. Since KMSPico isn't an official Microsoft product, you have to be cautious where you download it from. Many unofficial versions online contain harmful software or malware. To stay safe, always use well-known tech forums, GitHub repositories, or trusted community sites to get your KMSPico Download. Avoid shady websites or random pop-up ads promising quick activation. If you've legally purchased Windows or Office but lost your product key, KMSPico can be a practical way to reactivate your software without repurchasing licenses. It's also helpful for those who want a hassle-free activation method without digging through paperwork or waiting on support. However, businesses and organizations should avoid it, as volume licensing agreements and compliance require genuine activation. Once activated with KMSPico, your Windows and Office installations behave just like fully licensed copies. You get access to all updates, security patches, and features — no limitations. The activation remains valid after reboots, and you won't see annoying reminders. A big plus for KMSPico users is the strong community backing the tool. Online forums, social media groups, and video tutorials provide guidance and troubleshoot issues. This support network helps new users feel comfortable and confident. If paying for a Microsoft license feels out of reach, KMSPico offers a simple, no-cost way to activate your system and unlock its full potential. Just remember to download from reliable sources and use the tool responsibly. Ready to give it a try? Find a secure KMSPico, and activate your Windows or Office today — hassle-free and without the hefty price tag. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
IOL News
06-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
eThekwini Municipality Audit and Risk Committee raises concerns over City Integrity and Investigations Unit
eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele said that the city was addressing all concerns raised by the Audit and Risk Committee (ARC). Image: Doctor Ngcobo Independent Newspapers The eThekwini Municipality Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) was concerned over the City Integrity and Investigations Unit (CIIU) and whether it had adequate capacity to process the current volume of investigations it had. The consolidated ARC report for the second quarter, which ended at ended 30 December 2024. was presented to the eThekwini Executive Committee (Exco) meeting on Tuesday. The purpose of the report was to provide feedback to Exco about the significant findings between 1 October 2024 to 30 December 2024 to prevent unnecessary risks from materialising. Siboniso Shabalala, ARC Chairperson, said the CIIU report for quarter two was presented recently. Shabalala said the ARC raised concerns regarding the approved structure and the areas that are not funded and that this can have a direct impact on the ability of the CIIU to fully carry out its mandate and may hinder progress in addressing and clearing caseloads timeously. Shabalala said the other area raised was whether the CIIU had adequate capacity to process the current volume as well as whether the various systems and processes in the justice system are creating further delays in closing out the reported items. 'Management gave assurance that ongoing discussions with the Chief Financial Officer continue to source additional funding for the unit and currently, it is being done on an incremental basis. The unit does ensure the competency of the employees but some of the long outstanding cases regarding the implementation of consequence management that is reported, rest with line management to address and close. Ongoing engagement with the units continues to address these matters,' Shabalala said. Shabalala said that ARC also requested management to review how the Unit will address capacity if there is an influx of cases. Shabalala said the resourcing of the unit continues to remain an area of concern as it is critical to improve consequence management and the number of open cases to reduce significantly. Shabalala urged city management to implement action plans that address the root cause of the findings with a sense of urgency. On other issues, the ARC raised questions about ethical hijacking after the ARC found that an internal audit was able to exploit certain vulnerabilities on the CCTV devices which allowed them to upload and delete unauthorised application packages. 'Internal Audit attempted to exploit certain vulnerabilities of critical and high impact via specific open-source software tools after receiving approval and confirmation from management and were able to exploit one vulnerability on the Windows 7 environment which resulted in denial-of-service conditions. However, we were unsuccessful in exploiting the other vulnerabilities,' Shabalala said.
