Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (Beta Channel) brings several fixes and improvements. Key changes include resolving an explorer.exe crash, improving Narrator performance with large amounts of text, fixing an issue affecting the reliability of Start menu badges, and addressing problems with app defaults and searchindexer.exe crashes. This build also removes the previously available live captions settings within Quick Settings, directing users to the full settings page instead. While this build doesn't introduce new features, it focuses on stability and bug fixes for a smoother user experience.
Pi-hole v6.0 is a significant update focusing on enhanced user experience and maintainability. It features a redesigned web interface with improved navigation, accessibility, and dark mode support. Under the hood, the admin console now uses Vue 3 and the API utilizes PHP 8.1, modernizing the codebase for future development. FTL, the DNS engine, also received updates improving performance and security, including DNSSEC validation enhancements and optimized memory management. While this version brings no major new features, the focus is on refining the existing Pi-hole experience and laying the groundwork for future innovation.
Hacker News users generally expressed excitement about Pi-hole v6, praising its improved interface and easier setup, particularly for IPv6. Some users questioned the necessity of blocking ads at the DNS level, citing browser-based solutions and the potential for breakage of legitimate content. Others discussed alternative solutions like NextDNS, highlighting its cloud-based nature and advanced features, while some defended Pi-hole's local control and privacy benefits. A few users raised technical points, including discussions of DHCPv6 and unique privacy addresses. Some expressed concerns about the increasing complexity of Pi-hole, hoping it wouldn't become bloated with features. Finally, there was some debate about the ethics and effectiveness of ad blocking in general.
A new custom firmware for the PlayStation Portable, called PSP-CFW 6.61 PRO-C Infinity 2, allows the 20-year-old handheld console to connect to modern WPA2 Wi-Fi networks. Previously limited to the outdated WEP encryption, the PSP can now access most current Wi-Fi networks, opening up possibilities for online gaming and other internet-based features on original hardware. This update builds upon existing custom firmware, adding improved compatibility and stability while retaining previous functionality like ISO loading and plugin support.
Hacker News users generally expressed excitement about the WPA2 patch for the PSP, praising the developer for their dedication and skill in reverse-engineering the system. Several commenters reminisced about their experiences with the handheld console and discussed its unique place in gaming history. Some questioned the practical applications given the availability of faster internet on modern devices, while others pointed out the benefits for preservation and playing online games on original hardware. A few highlighted the technical challenges involved in the process, appreciating the developer's deep understanding of the PSP's architecture. The potential for further development, such as implementing WPA3 support, was also mentioned.
Newsweek reports that Google Calendar has stopped automatically displaying certain US cultural events like Pride Month, Black History Month, and Holocaust Remembrance Day in the main calendar view for some users. While these events are still accessible within other calendar layers, like the "Interesting Calendars" section, the change has sparked concern and frustration among users who relied on the prominent reminders. Google has not officially commented on the reason for the removal or whether it is a temporary glitch or a permanent change.
HN commenters were largely skeptical of the Newsweek article, pointing out that the events still appeared on their calendars and suggesting user error or a temporary glitch as more likely explanations than intentional removal. Several suggested checking calendar settings, specifically "Browse interesting calendars" under "Other calendars," to ensure the specialized calendars are enabled. Some questioned Newsweek's journalistic integrity and the sensationalist framing of the headline. A few commenters expressed general frustration with Google's frequent, unannounced changes to their products and services. There was also discussion about the effectiveness and potential annoyance of these awareness calendars, with some finding them useful reminders while others viewing them as intrusive or performative.
Summary of Comments ( 69 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43239948
Hacker News users discuss the new features in the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, mostly focusing on practical improvements rather than revolutionary changes. Several commenters express appreciation for the return of ungrouped taskbar icons, viewing it as a positive step back from a less popular design choice. Some discuss the new screen recording feature in Snipping Tool, noting its basic functionality and comparing it to existing third-party options. Others mention the addition of a native VPN status indicator in the system tray, considering it a welcome, if overdue, feature. A few comments also touch on more technical aspects, such as the performance improvements and changes to Windows Ink. Overall, the sentiment seems to be one of cautious optimism, with users appreciating the iterative improvements but remaining somewhat reserved about the overall direction of Windows 11.
The Hacker News post titled "Windows 11 Insider Preview Build" linking to a Windows Insider blog post about build 22635 has a moderate number of comments, discussing various aspects of the update and Windows 11 in general.
Several commenters express fatigue and frustration with Windows 11's frequent updates and changes. One commenter mentions the constant UI changes as disruptive and questions the benefit, stating a preference for stability over frequent, seemingly minor updates. Another echoes this sentiment, expressing a desire for a longer release cadence with more significant improvements rather than a constant stream of small tweaks.
A thread discusses the removal and subsequent return of the "never combine" option for taskbar buttons. This feature allows users to see labels for all open windows, even when multiple windows of the same application are open. Commenters express relief at its return, highlighting its importance for productivity and usability. They also criticize Microsoft for removing it in the first place and question the decision-making process behind such changes.
Some comments touch upon the performance of Windows 11. One commenter notes improved performance with the update, while another mentions ongoing issues with File Explorer performance, specifically slowdowns and crashes.
There's a brief discussion about the development cycle of Windows. One commenter speculates that Microsoft is preparing for a larger feature update, given the focus on bug fixes and minor UI adjustments in recent Insider builds.
A few commenters express general dissatisfaction with Windows 11, criticizing its UI changes, performance, and overall direction. One commenter even states they switched to Linux due to frustration with Windows 11.
Finally, some comments focus on specific features mentioned in the blog post, such as HDR wallpaper support and improvements to voice access. These comments are generally positive, welcoming the additions and improvements.
Overall, the comments reflect a mixed reception to Windows 11 and its ongoing development. While some appreciate the new features and performance improvements, others express frustration with the frequent updates, UI changes, and lingering performance issues. The discussion around the "never combine" taskbar option exemplifies the tension between user preferences and Microsoft's design choices.