All images courtesy of Matthew Chambers, shared with permissionConcentric Forms Escape the Confines of the Ceramic Vessel in Matthew Chamberss SculpturesNovember 20, 2024ArtGrace EbertIts been almost exactly a decade since we first featured the concentric, ceramic vessels of Matthew Chambers on Colossal, and in that time, weve come to find his sculptures no less stupefying. From his studio in St. Lawrence on the Isle of Wight, Chambers continues to push the boundaries of the medium. The artist is known for nesting meticulously scaled forms inside slightly larger pieces, all of which are thrown on a wheel. Hypnotic and seemingly endless, the dynamic works appear like vast portals that descend into relatively small vessels.For his most recent pieces though, Chambers has switched his focus from inner to outer, as the aligned forms shift in position to swell outward and upward. Each sculpture is an opportunity to explore a particular pattern, he adds, and now, that process involves extrapolating motifs and the limits of the spherical shapes. After 18 months of back-to-back exhibitions, Chambers is now slowing down and returning to his studio to experiment and try new methods. His works will be on view with Cavaliero Finn at Collect Art Fair in February 2025, and until then, find more of his sculptures on his website and Instagram. Next article

All images courtesy of Hollie Chastain, shared with permissionHollie Chastain Lands a Playful Series of Collaged UFOsNovember 20, 2024ArtCraftKate MothesFrom paper, thread, and gouache, Chattanooga-based artist Hollie Chastain (previously) combines ephemera and found materials into vibrant collages. Strips of paper are cut, woven, and stitched into playful, abstract compositions.The artists recent extraterrestrial-inspired series emerged somewhat by accident. I was playing around with scraps and some abstract surface design,and it ended up vaguely UFO-shaped, so I ran with it, the artist tells Colossal.Green ValleyChastains playful series uses a limited palette of five colors, in addition to vintage printed matter and a thin maple veneer for visual warmth. Creating such a big collection with limited materials and colors is both challenging and extremely satisfying, Chastain says. I am not overwhelmed with options, yet have to stretch myself to make them each unique.Some of the pieces of more intentionally UFO-shaped than others, and Chastain titles each one after the name of a global city where UFO activity has been reported. I blame David Duchovny, she says.Chastain is currently working toward a solo exhibition in late 2025 at Townsend Atelier in Chattanooga. And if youre in Colorado, you can see her workincluding several of the UFOsin Moons Out, Goons Out at Ah Haa School for the Arts in Telluride through November 30. Find more on her website and Instagram.Previous articleNext article

By Fox News Staff Fox News Published November 20, 2024 12:21pm EST A Google Gemini user reported a shocking answer. (Tobias Schwarz/AFP/Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto/David Paul Morris/Getty Images) Welcome to Fox News Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.IN TODAYS NEWSLETTER:- Google AI chatbot tells user to 'please die'- Ben Affleck is confident AI cannot replace Hollywood movies for this reason- Donald Trump will be very good for AI: Jeff Sica'PLEASE DIE': Google's AI chatbot Gemini is at the center of another controversy after a user reported a shocking answer in a conversation about challenges aging adults face. A graduate student in Michigan was told "please die" by the artificial intelligence chatbot, CBS News first reported. (Marilla Sicilia/Archivio Marilla Sicilia/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)'LAST TO GO' Ben Affleck is getting a lot of attention for his views on artifical intelligence. Last week, the actor spoke at CNBC's Delivering Alpha 2024 investor summit, taking time to share his thoughts on how AI will affect the entertainment industry. "Movies will be one of the last things, if everything gets replaced, to be replaced by AI," he explained. (Omar Marques/SOPA Images/LightRocket/CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP)HERE COMES THE BOOM: Circle Squared Alternative Investments founder Jeff Sica explains how President-elect Donald Trump policies will aid the construction of A.I data centers on 'Varney & Co.' Forerunner K2 humanoid robot (Shanghai Kepler Robotics Co., Ltd)CHINESE STRENGTH: China's Shanghai Kepler Robotics is making waves in the world of humanoid robotics with its innovative Forerunner series. Its latest humanoid robot, the Forerunner K2, has quickly become a hot topic, showcasing Kepler's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what robots can do.FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIASIGN UP FOR OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERSDOWNLOAD OUR APPSWATCH FOX NEWS ONLINEFox News GoSTREAM FOX NATIONFox NationStay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox Newshere. This article was written by Fox News staff.

close CyberGuy shows how you can add ChatGPT to your browser Kurt Knutsson explains how ChatGPT's functions can help you in your day-to-day life. A browser is one of the most popular apps we use. It's the gateway between the internet and its users, translating raw code into something we perceive as a web page and allowing us to interact with the web. It's safe to say that anyone who uses the internet uses a web browser.But while this tool is extremely useful, it can also be equally dangerous. For example, clicking malicious links can redirect you to harmful websites that either steal personal information or infect your device with malware.If you use a search engine like Google through Chrome, it can collect data on your searches, browsing history and even your location (if location services are enabled). Most browsers also use cookies, small files that store information about your online behavior. Let's discuss the risks associated with web browsers and how to stay safe. A person conducting a Google search on their laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How a browser doubles as spywareBrowsers are much more than simple tools to navigate the web. They are, in many ways, tools for surveillance. While they help you access websites and services, they also track your every move online to feed the ever-hungry advertising industry.First off, most browsers collect data about your searches, browsing habits and even your location. This data isn't just stored to "improve your experience," it's used to create a detailed profile of you, which is then shared with advertisers who target you with personalized ads.Google Chrome, for example, is notorious for tracking your activity. As you browse, it feeds data to Googles advertising engine, allowing it to serve highly targeted ads based on your behavior. This includes everything from your search history to the websites you visit, even down to the smallest detail, like how long you stay on a page."Google may share information about you with advertisers, business partners, sponsors, and other third parties," Google boldlymentions on its privacy policy page.Browsers also use cookies to keep tabs on you. These cookies track your activity across different sites, even after you've left a site. This means that ads you saw on one website might follow you across others, creating a persistent digital footprint. And while cookies can be blocked or deleted, many websites rely on them to function, making it hard to escape this kind of tracking. Google browser (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Even Incognito mode isnt safeEven if you're using privacy-focused browsers or tools like Incognito mode, they dont really guarantee privacy. A2020 class-action lawsuit revealed that Google kept scraping searches by gathering data from users browsing in Incognito through ad tools used by websites, picking up "potentially embarrassing" searches from millions of people. Google then used that data to track web traffic and sell ads.Its not just Google. Your internet service provider, the websites you visit and even governments can monitor your browsing activity, even in Incognito mode. All it does is hide your activity from your local browser history.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A person conducting a Google search on their laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)How to protect your privacyAs you all know, web browsers are essential tools for accessing the internet, but many popular options compromise your privacy by collecting extensive data. While Google Chrome is widely used, it tracks significant amounts of user information to power targeted advertising. However, there areseveral privacy-focused browser alternatives that prioritize user data protection. Also, to enhance your online security and protect your personal information, consider implementing these essential cybersecurity practices.Keep software updated: Regularlyupdate your operating system, browsers and other software to patch security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates whenever possible to ensure you're always protected against the latest threats.Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords for each of your accounts and avoid reusing them. Consider using apassword manager to generate and securely store strong passwords.Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Activate2FA on all accounts that offer it. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification beyond your password.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HEREBe cautious with emails and links: Avoid opening suspicious emails or clicking on unknown links. These could be phishing attempts designed to steal your information or infect your device with malware. The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links that install malware, potentially accessing your private information, is to have strong antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.Use secure networks: When usingpublic Wi-Fi, connect through aVPN to encrypt your internet traffic. For sensitive transactions, stick to secure, private networks.Be mindful of social media sharing: Limit the personal information you share on social media platforms and adjust yourprivacy settings to control who can view your posts.VPN: Your first line of defense against browser spying:A VPN (virtual private network) encrypts your internet connection, making it difficult for anyone, including your browser, to track your online activities. By masking your IP address and routing your traffic through secure servers, a VPN not only protects your personal data from prying eyes but also helps you avoid targeted advertising and potential data breaches.Regardless of whether you are new to VPNs or not, youll want to choose trusted VPN providers known for robust encryption and no-log policies to ensure your privacy. Whether for sensitive tasks or everyday use, reputable VPN services will boost both your security and speed.By implementing these security practices and using privacy-focused browsers, you can significantly enhance your online safety and protect your personal data while browsing the web. Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires vigilance and regular updates to your practices.Kurts key takeawayThe web browser is an essential tool for accessing the internet, but it also opens the door to a host of privacy and security risks. Whether its being tracked for ads, snooped on by your ISP or accidentally stumbling onto a malware-filled site, the risks are everywhere. Tools like Incognito mode or cookie-blocking can help a bit, but theyre not enough to truly protect you. If youre serious about staying private and secure, you need to up your game. Use a VPN, be cautious about what you click on and stay informed about the ways your browser might be working against you.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPDo you think companies have gone too far with tracking? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Unbeatable Best Black Friday dealsBest gifts forMen |Women |Kids |Teens |Pet loversBest deals:Laptops |DesktopsCopyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

ZDNET's key takeaways The Bose SoundLink Home speaker is a Bose exclusive, meaning you can only purchase it on Bose's website; it's on sale ahead of Black Friday for $199. The SoundLink Home offers a sleek design reminiscent of the 70s and bass that doesn't disappear at low volumes. This speaker isn't compatible with Bose's companion apps, lacks waterproofing, and has a shorter-than-average battery life. View now at Bose What's the deal?The Bose SoundLink Home portable Bluetooth speaker is Bose's latest speaker release and a Bose exclusive. it's stylish and sounds great, and it's on sale at Bose's website for $199 ahead of Black Friday.Bluetooth speakers are an easy way to bring your favorite tunes into any room in your home. They can also be companions while you spend a day on the beach, hike, or host a few friends.But I've been turned off by the popularity of rugged Bluetooth speakers; it's great that many speakers can withstand days at the beach, drops in the pool, and tumbles down the side of a mountain on a hike. My issue is that speakers don't have to look like they can survive the end times.Also:The 50+ best Black Friday deals live nowAs a result, I've explored speakers meant for home use, with my favorite being the Sonos Era 300. However, it's not easy to move from room to room. One speaker has answered my sound, style, and portability wishes, and it's the Bose SoundLink Home, the latest speaker in Bose's SoundLink lineup.The SoundLink Home is a simple Bluetooth speaker, so it lacks the features of a smart speaker, like compatibility with WiFi or voice assistants. As a result, its main selling points are sound and design.In the audio community, a running joke about Bose speakers is, "No highs, no lows, must be Bose." Sure, the highs are a bit sharp, and the mids are slightly hollow, but the bass on this relatively small speaker is insane.Also:Sonos' latest audio products transformed the way I watch movies at home - here's howThe SoundLink Home's penchant for low-tone sound compelled me to listen to lots of R&B and hip-hop, like Frank Ocean's Novacane, Omar Apollo's Kamikaze, and Kendrick Lamar's Money Trees. This speaker reproduces skipping and groovy basslines beautifully, and lower-pitched singing voices are received well.The bass is full and punchy, and the mid-low sounds are vivid and electric, even at low volumes. Most people prefer these tones to be at the forefront of their speakers' and headphones' sound profiles, so I can see a broad audience enjoying this speaker.Overall, the SoundLink Home's warm and mellow sound profile, clear-enough vocals and midrange instruments, and prominent bass response at low volumes make it more than suitable for at-home listening.In Bose's advertising campaign for the SoundLink Home, the models are donned in neutral, warm-toned, and loose-fitting clothing. Their model homes feature wood floors and panels, tile backsplashes, sheer curtains, and earth-toned, minimalistic furniture.Also:One of the most immersive speakers I've listened to is not made by Sony or JBL (and it's on sale)I'm an informed consumer, Bose. I know an ode to the 70s when I see one. Bose is targeting a specific audience: younger people with a 70s-influenced aesthetic who want a speaker that fits their style more than it offers future-forward software features. Jada Jones/ZDNETThe SoundLink Home sports a retro-inspired design with a metal frame and stand, while the rest of the speaker is mesh. If designs like the Beats Pill (2024), Apple HomePod, and Sonos Era 100 are just a tad too modern for your taste, the SoundLink Home offers the old-school style you may want.Although its metallic accents can complement more modern home designs, its rectangular form factor, and speaker impression placement make the SoundLink Home resemble an old 70s AM/FM radio.Also:Bose QuietComfort Ultra review: A rightful heir to the ANC throneThe SoundLink Home's most significant technological feature is its connectivity. It is equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, which offers stable and efficient connections. However, this speaker only provides nine hours of playtime before recharging, so it's not the most battery-friendly speaker.A USB-C port on the speaker's side allows for connection to other audio sources, like a laptop, and this speaker has microphones for taking and making phone calls. Jada Jones/ZDNETOn the flip side, the SoundLink Home isn't compatible with the Bose or Bose Connect apps, meaning you cannot access speaker controls through a companion app. Still, if you purchase two SoundLink Home speakers, you can manually pair them into Stereo Mode.Stereo Mode turns one speaker into a left audio channel and one into a right audio channel, creating a more spacious and more immersive soundstage. Playing some jazz or mellow tunes through two of these speakers while you have guests over during the holiday season will turn you into the host of the year.ZDNET's buying adviceThe Bose SoundLink Home is a wonderful home speaker that strays from the industry standard of angular, rugged, and bright-colored design elements. If you want a Bluetooth speaker that harkens back to the 1970s, the SoundLink Home is the one for you.However, most Bluetooth speakers on the market can offer at least 12 hours of battery life, and the SoundLink Home falls short with nine hours of playtime. It lacks any official water protection, and Bose suggests keeping this speaker away from water and moist environments. Still, its great sound and interesting design set it apart from mainstream options.If the SoundLink Home's retro design doesn't move you and you want a waterproof Bluetooth speaker with a longer battery life, consider the Beats Pill (2024). If you want a smart home speaker and portability isn't at the top of your priority list, consider the Sonos Era 300.When will this deal expire?While many sales events feature deals for a specific length of time, deals are on a limited-time basis, making them subject to expire anytime. ZDNET remains committed to finding, sharing, and updating the best offers to help you maximize your savings so you can feel as confident in your purchases as we feel in our recommendations. Our ZDNET team of experts constantly monitors the deals we feature to keep our stories up-to-date. If you missed out on this deal, don't worry -- we're always sourcing new savings opportunities atZDNET.com.Featured reviews

With Black Friday just over a week away, you can already get this fancy espresso machine on Amazon at a hefty discount.

B2B leaders have spent much of the past year scrambling to take advantage of genAI technology and find new ways to differentiate themselves.

QUICK HITSBlackRocks Bitcoin ETF options launched with $2B in trading volume on day one, signaling strong institutional interest.Grayscale, a key competitor, announced its entry into the Bitcoin ETF options market following BlackRocks success.Bullish investor sentiment and increased liquidity are driving $BTC to new highs, with options trading reshaping market dynamics.Political and institutional support, including pro-crypto policies and corporate adoption, further boosts Bitcoins appeal.If youre looking for an explanation for cryptos astounding growth, look at these two factors:Political shift to a pro-crypto stanceEver-growing crypto adoption by leading financial institutionsThat second point was on full display over the past day, as a leading Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) provider Blackrock saw a record-breaking $2B trading volume with the launch of options trading on its ETFs.Now, other providers are hurrying to get in on the action.All that institutional support helped push $BTC to a new all-time high of $93.8K.Lets see exactly what happened and why its such a big deal.Bitcoin ETF Options: A New Era in Crypto TradingThe cryptocurrency market witnessed a transformative shift with the introduction of options trading for Bitcoin ETFs.The SEC approved options back in September for several providers. Blackrocks iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) was the first to launch options trading on Tuesday.It didnt take long for the money to start flowing in big time.On the very first day, the market saw an impressive $2B in trading volume, reflecting strong investor enthusiasm. The dominance of call options highlighted bullish sentiment, with many traders speculating on Bitcoins potential for significant price appreciation.Options on ETFs open new avenues for investors, heralding a significant moment in the evolution of Bitcoins market structure.BlackRocks Record-Breaking Debut Spurs CompetitorsHot on the heels of BlackRocks success, Grayscale announced plans to launch options for its Bitcoin ETF.Grayscales options were approved back in September, but BlackRock launched first.If Grayscale had any qualms about offering options, $1.9B and 289K call options probably went a long way toward settling them.By joining the options race, Grayscale aims to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on the burgeoning interest in Bitcoin ETF options.And as one of the largest players in the crypto investment space, Grayscales entry is set to further energize the ETF market.Market Dynamics Reinforce Investor SentimentGoing back to the top Trumps support for crypto, including a proposed new SEC chair, has set the stage for renewed investor confidence.Support for Trumps $BTC reserve appears to be growing, and major companies like Microsoft seem open to the idea of their own $BTC holdings.And all along, professional traders and financial institutions continue to embrace the new trading instruments, using IBIT options to bet on dramatic price increases and leverage new ways of earning income from $BTC.Some are even targeting valuations as high as $100 for the ETF.Beyond speculation, the introduction of Bitcoin ETF options is expected to bring more liquidity to the market, offering new tools for hedging and investment strategies.The arrival of options trading for Bitcoin ETFs signifies a pivotal development for the cryptocurrency market. It reflects growing institutional adoption and provides a platform for sophisticated investment strategies.With major players like BlackRock and Grayscale driving innovation, the market dynamics of Bitcoin are poised for profound transformation.All eyes remain on how these financial products shape the future of Bitcoin and the broader crypto ecosystem.ReferencesAdd Techreport to Your Google News Feed Get the latest updates, trends, and insights delivered straight to your fingertips. Subscribe now! Subscribe now Aaron covers crypto topics with an emphasis on providing accessible, informative perspectives. His background includes over a decade in higher education and 5+ years as a freelance writer in crypto & SEO.When he's not writing professionally, Aaron enjoys writing for fun, volunteering for a local charity, and boxing. View all articles by Aaron Walker Our editorial processThe Tech Reporteditorial policyis centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written byreal authors.

KEY TAKEAWAYSAdam Back predicts that Bitcoins price could increase 11 times, surpassing $1M per coin, if the US creates a national $BTC reserve.During his campaign, Trump promised to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve, potentially setting off a global race for Bitcoin adoption.Countries like El Salvador and Bhutan already hold Bitcoin reserves, and leaders in Argentina and Poland have hinted at similar moves.Despite enthusiasm from Bitcoin advocates, uncertainties around legality and logistics leave markets skeptical about the US adopting Bitcoin as a reserve asset.Adam Back (founder of Blockstream and one of Bitcoins early adopters) believes that if the US establishes a national strategic Bitcoin reserve, FOMO will grip the world.Back argues that the initiative would accelerate governmental Bitcoin adoption as a reserve asset. The trend is already gaining traction in US states like Florida and Pennsylvania.Moreover, the governments move could trigger a race among other nations to adopt Bitcoin and even push China to reconsider its anti-cryptocurrency stance.Strategic Bitcoin ReserveDuring his campaign, Donald Trump promised to create a national strategic Bitcoin reserve. Adam Back predicts that Bitcoins price could rise at least 11 times if this promise materializes.He wrote on his X account that if the US strategic Bitcoin reserve becomes a reality, prepare for a seven-digit Bitcoin this cycle.Even before the US made its move, nations like El Salvador and Bhutan had already established strategic Bitcoin reserves. In Poland, presidential candidates have also signaled interest in adopting Bitcoin as a reserve asset.In Latin America, Trumps potential move might be mirrored by Argentinas president, Javier Milei. Hes strongly aligned with US policies and has advocated for national Bitcoin adoption multiple times.Back also explained that the market remains skeptical about the US seriously considering a strategic Bitcoin reserve.iI the US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve happens prepare for 7 figure bitcoin. this cycle. the market is skeptical on meaningful follow through for now, so that is not at all priced in. Adam BackThe Blockstream CEO also referenced Trumps promise that the US could use confiscated Bitcoins or acquire new ones specifically for the reserve.However, Bitcoins confiscated in cases like FTX or the Bitfinex hack legally belong to victims, making it unlikely for the government to secure judicial approval to retain those $BTC.Senator Cynthia Lummis aligned with this proposal and suggested that the US could sell gold to purchase 1M Bitcoins.Nonetheless, there are still many speculations and few concrete details about how this reserve would operate. Additionally, Trump would need to assume the presidency before fulfilling his promise.Enthusiastic Bitcoiners Foresee Bitcoin FOMODespite the uncertainties, Bitcoin enthusiasts like Adam Back remain optimistic. In his response to another X user, he explained that if the US implements such a reserve, FOMO would take over the global market.According to him, acquiring 1M Bitcoins efficiently would require extreme discretion, likely through OTC (over-the-counter) desks.If Backs prediction comes true, Bitcoin could increase in value by at least 11 times its current price, surpassing $1M.Could Bitcoin Reach $1M?Adam Back believes the US could ignite a global Bitcoin frenzy by establishing a strategic reserve.Such a move would accelerate Bitcoin adoption worldwide, potentially pushing its price to $1M this cycle. Back suggests this could create a domino effect, prompting countries like China to reevaluate their stance on cryptocurrencies.Despite a generalized skepticism surrounding the US $BTC reserve (due to legal challenges and the absence of concrete plans), industry leaders remain confident. Will the US become a Bitcoin leader, and will Trump bring the much-promised crypto revolution?The following weeks and months should offer an answer to that.ReferencesClick to expand and view referencesAdd Techreport to Your Google News Feed Get the latest updates, trends, and insights delivered straight to your fingertips. Subscribe now! Subscribe now Cassio Gusson is a journalist passionate about technology, cryptocurrencies, and the nuances of human nature. With a career spanning roles as Senior Crypto Journalist at CriptoFacil and Head of News at CoinTelegraph, he offers exclusive insights on South Americas crypto landscape. A graduate in Communication from Faccamp and a post-graduate in Globalization and Culture from FESPSP, Cassio explores the intersection of governance, decentralization, and the evolution of global systems. View all articles by Cassio Gusson Our editorial processThe Tech Reporteditorial policyis centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written byreal authors.

Retro Potato: Longtime Microsoft software engineer Raymond Chen recently responded to an intriguing retro-tech question posed by a game developer on X. The developer inquired about the three distinct user interfaces used during the Windows 95 setup process, which transitioned from DOS to Windows 3.x, and finally to the classic Win9x GUI. Chen explaining that it was a deliberate design choice to minimize the amount of code required for the Windows 95 configuration experience. Experienced PC users may be well aware of the peculiar relationship between MS-DOS code and the GUI environment within the Win9x ecosystem. However, according to Chen, the multi-OS support built into the Windows 95 setup program was far more sophisticated than it might initially seem.With over 30 years of experience shaping the evolution of Windows, Chen holds deep insights into the hidden intricacies of one of the world's most widely used software platforms. Writing The Old New Thing blog, he said Windows 95 setup was designed to upgrade systems from three possible starting points MS-DOS, Windows 3.1, and Windows 95 itself. This necessity dictated the need for compatibility with three distinct computing environments.The setup program was primarily written as an MS-DOS application but was designed to run on three different operating systems to perform distinct tasks. The DOS portion was necessary when setup was launched from the MS-DOS prompt, as accessing the Win9x environment would have been impossible without first installing it on the hard drive.Also see: Who wrote the BSOD screen? Former Windows developer finally has an answerThe MS-DOS setup component installed a minimal version of Windows 3.1 just enough to support the 16-bit portion of the setup tool. After booting into this miniature Windows 3.1 environment, the 16-bit GUI setup program would launch. This application could also run in a full Windows 3.x environment or even within an already installed Windows 95 OS, enabling users to repair a corrupted system if necessary. // Related StoriesThe 16-bit Windows application was the centerpiece of the process, Chen explained, as it handled the majority of tasks required for the "real" Windows 95 installation. This graphical interface managed user interaction, collected configuration data, determined which OS components to install, and performed hardware detection to select the appropriate drivers.After copying the Windows 95 files and drivers to the system, the 16-bit setup booted into the Win9x environment. The third and final setup stage involved a genuine Win32 application, which finalized the installation by handling tasks such as installing printers and configuring other peripherals.By chaining together these three setup programs, Microsoft was able to streamline development by reusing a single codebase across all three main installation scenarios. "Each program takes you one step closer to the goal. And everything got implemented only once," the developer said.