Riot Games Introduces On-Demand Mode for Vanguard Anti-Cheat System Riot Games is implementing a significant update to its Vanguard anti-cheat system, allowing players to disable the software when not actively gaming. The change, set to roll out today, will shift Vanguard from a persistent background process to an on-demand activation model. This means the anti-cheat will only launch when a game is running and will terminate once gameplay ends, similar to how other titles like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty handle their anti-cheat measures. The update addresses longstanding criticisms of Vanguard’s intrusive nature. Originally launched in 2020, the system operated in "kernel mode," granting Riot Games deep access to users’ PCs. This approach sparked controversy due to its constant background activity and perceived overreach. The new on-demand feature aims to mitigate these concerns by reducing the software’s presence on non-gaming systems. Riot’s anti-cheat chief, Phillip Koskinas, outlined the changes in an update, stating that the "on-demand" functionality will be available to "sufficiently secured PC devices." This requires hardware meeting modern security standards, including Windows 11 25H2 or later, UEFI Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, VBS, HVCI, and IOMMU. Players meeting these criteria will automatically see the option to switch Vanguard to on-demand mode. Koskinas noted that approximately 35% of Riot’s players already satisfy these requirements, making the update seamless for them. For the remaining 65% of users, the transition may involve BIOS adjustments or hardware upgrades. A small subset—around 3% of players—currently use older hardware incompatible with the Pre-Check requirements.#windows_11 #riot_games #vanguard_anti_cheat #phillip_koskinas #xbox_os_security_team
Microsoft Begins Phasing Out Copilot Branding in Notepad on Windows 11 Microsoft has initiated the gradual removal of Copilot branding from its Notepad application on Windows 11, marking a significant step in its broader strategy to streamline AI integration across the operating system. The change is part of a larger effort to address user concerns about bloat and improve system stability, while also rebranding AI features to align with evolving user expectations. The latest update to Notepad, now available to Windows Insiders, replaces the Copilot icon and associated branding with a generic "writing tools" menu. This shift maintains the same underlying functionality but distances the feature from the Copilot brand, which has faced scrutiny over its visibility and utility. The update also removes references to AI in the app’s Settings section, relocating the option to enable or disable AI-powered writing tools under "Advanced features." The change is reflected in the latest preview build of Notepad, version 11.2512.28.0. Users can identify the update by the replacement of the Copilot icon with a pen icon, signaling a more subdued approach to AI integration. This move aligns with Microsoft’s earlier announcements about reducing the prominence of Copilot in Windows 11, as reported by Windows Central in January. At that time, the company indicated it was evaluating how to streamline AI experiences across the OS, with many Copilot buttons being removed or replaced. Notepad’s transition to "writing tools" reflects a broader trend within Microsoft to depersonalize AI features while retaining their core capabilities. Users who prefer to disable AI functions can still do so through the updated settings, ensuring flexibility.#microsoft #writing_tools #windows_11 #copilot #notepad
Apple’s latest product is a game-changer Apple has launched its newest laptop, the MacBook Neo, priced at $599, marking its first entry into the budget laptop market. The device targets cost-conscious consumers who desire a Mac experience without the premium price tag, though it sacrifices some hardware flexibility, such as non-upgradeable 8GB RAM. This move positions Apple to capitalize on market gaps left by competitors, particularly in the wake of Microsoft’s Windows 11 rollout and the end of support for Windows 10. The timing of the MacBook Neo’s release is strategic. Microsoft’s decision to make Windows 11 require a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip has left hundreds of millions of Windows 10 devices incompatible with the newer operating system. Many users who rely on Windows 10 for its stability and compatibility with legacy software are hesitant to upgrade, creating an opportunity for Apple to attract those seeking an alternative. The MacBook Neo’s macOS ecosystem offers a seamless experience, free from the complexities of Windows 11’s hardware demands. Apple’s entry into the $500–$1,000 laptop segment is significant. According to market research, this price range dominates the laptop market, yet Apple has never offered a device in this category before. The MacBook Neo’s affordability could appeal to users who value the Apple brand but previously found its laptops too expensive. While the 8GB RAM specification may seem outdated, Apple has emphasized that the device’s performance, powered by an iPhone chip, is sufficient for most tasks. The chip’s single-threaded performance surpasses the M1 chip, which was revolutionary when it launched in 2020 and remains competitive today. The MacBook Neo’s design and features further distinguish it from competitors.#microsoft #apple #macbook_neo #windows_11 #dell
