Minutes into my mission, I'm having second thoughts. Gunning down a dozen zombie-like enemies is a lot for a lowly office worker in the Federal Bureau of Control. At first, it's hard to have faith in my gear -- a backpack water jug with a cannon for drenching enemies. But then my fellow FBC squad mateuses his kit to zap all the soaked foes at once. With our third coworker slamming their wrench into anything that moves, we barely manage to fix up some broken fans before sprinting for the elevator as the doors close on the enemy horde.Welcome to FBC Firebreak. Media got a chance to play the game for a few hours in an online preview ahead of its release on June 17. Six in-game years after the events of Remedy Entertainment's seminal 2019 game Control, the FBC headquarters is still partially occupied by the otherworldly Hiss invaders. But the brave workforce of the FBC has stepped up, and as one of the agency's rangers or secretaries or middle managers, it's up to players to drive them out of the offices. FBC Firebeak is a departure for Remedy as its first game built to be multiplayer rather than its decades of single-player adventures. But the studio's newest title is a smaller-scope "AA" game, unlike the flagship AAA releases like Alan Wake II, Control and its other prior hits. However, Firebreak's price tagthat matches its more modest scope will be welcome to players reeling from the sticker shock of games coming from Nintendo and Microsoft.In my preview, I could see how Remedy is attempting to blend its signature style of weird, funky gunplay into a multiplayer setting, and mostly succeeds. There's a lot of character to the world it's built, and players will likely enjoy taking on the role of supernatural emergency responders as a change of pace from the gunplay-heavy squad shooters they know. But diehard fans of the studio's storytelling-heavy approach will have to adjust to the new game's fast co-op pace.And they'll have to get used to its difficulty, because FBC Firebreak is hard.I'll give you an example: My two squad mates -- one of whom was CNET video editor Sean Booker --  and I dropped into one of the three missions available to us. We each picked a gun and one of three equipment backpacks, each offering unique tools that work best when combined -- a key way the game encourages teamwork. We set the mission to normal difficulty, and out we went. Remedy EntertainmentThe missionwe chose was Paper Chase, wherein our squad is tasked with cleaning up a plague of supernatural Post-it notes. Like other areas of FBC headquarters, the offices we explored -- faithfully recreated with '60s shag rugs and retro decor from 2019's Control -- had been warped by the invading Hiss, making things even stranger. That meant we weren't just fighting Hiss-possessed FBC workers clawing and shooting at us -- we also had to gun down humanoid golems made of Post-its.Our third squad mate dropped out due to GPU compatibility issues, so our CNET twosome cleared out gobs of Post-its haunting the office floor, all while getting slammed with unending hordes of enemies. We ran out of bullets pretty quickly. My colleague Booker had a mechanic's kit with a mean wrench he could swing around -- it also let him repair gadgets scattered around the level faster. Meanwhile, my backpack water blaster did little more than stagger enemies, relying on a one-two combo with the shock kit carried by our now-dropped-out squad mate.With my weak melee and frequent deaths, Booker and I barely made it back to the elevator to finish the job. For the rest of our preview, we stuck to the easiest difficulty. The equipment kits, called Crisis Kits, come in three varieties: Jump Kit with shock area attacks, Fix Kit with a wrench and deployable turret and Splash Kit with a water cannon and healing humidifier. Remedy EntertainmentSquad up or die tryingTechnically, you can drop into a "job" all by your lonesome, but I wouldn't recommend it. They're built to be challenging for three people, and I can attest how it's a difficult enough experience with two, even on an easier setting. Four-person squads just weren't balanced, as Remedy developers previously told me, which made sense as I fought tooth-and-nail through narrow hallways, roomy offices and spacious mines that would've felt crowded with more than two other teammates.There are other tools at your disposal to take into jobs, like grenades, deployable equipment to use with your backpack kit and a rechargeable super ability-- all gradually unlocked as you level up. Decked out in more gear, we stood a better chance of withstanding hordes of enemies. When I slammed down a jug filled by my water backpack that sprayed healing in a radius around it, we withstood waves of foes that had previously wiped us out.But we still weren't eager to tip the difficulty back up to normal, and how much players struggle may be a make-or-break point for Firebreak's player experience. It's a balance that could be tweaked in many ways before the game comes out in June, from enemy health and behavior to kit effectiveness and ammo availability. Remedy reinforced that the preview we saw was a work in progress, so I'd expect some tinkering to come, but the game walks a tricky line in encouragingcooperation through its unique mechanics and tasks while allowing player flexibility -- after all, the strangers filling your online co-op squad will come in a variety of skill levels and attitudes.In its current state, getting swamped by wave after wave of Hiss while feeling my kit's inadequacy is a bit worrisome. The game shows promise with its unique setting, gameplay and niche in the multiplayer shooter space -- one that favors weirdness and intriguing mechanics over sweaty gunplay. Remedy EntertainmentCo-op in the Alan Wake universeAs the FBC Firebreak developers explained in our briefing before the preview, the game was designed with three core pillars. The most obvious of those was on display when we booted up the game: there should be as little standing between players booting up the game and getting to the action. No cutscenes, plot diversions or dense dialogue to get in the way of jumping into a job.That leads to the game's second pillar: every player gets the same content -- no progression roadblocks or paid DLC to split up a squad. For the entry fee, players will get whatever the Firebreak developers introduce to the game -- which at the moment are two additional jobs coming sometime after the game's launch. This ties into one of my main annoyances during the preview: progression felt too slow to unlock enough items that made me feel effective in the field. It makes sense if Remedy wants a longer progression runway to keep players coming back -- for new equipment, better weapons and more cosmetics to outfit their Firebreak workers.The last pillar was the one I saw the least of -- mainly because we didn't see much of the game: that FBC Firebreak delivers action and moments found "only in Control." From the preview, this bore out in the reliance on kit equipment over guns -- even without my third squad mate following up with an electricity blast, I discovered my water gun could stagger enemies when charged up, leaving my other squad mate to batter them with his wrench. This mixes in a dose of absurdity with the frenetic terror of Hiss hordes. Remedy EntertainmentIn practice, FBC Firebreak feels like a mixture of Left 4 Dead and Ghostbusters, which is a fun and funky blend that shakes up the tired squad shooter genre. But its focus on quickly moving players in and out of jobs leaves little room for the kind of secret-hunting and lore-digging that defined past Remedy games. To that end, it's tough to imagine whether the studio's diehard fans will embrace Firebreak's loops running the same missions without heavy storytelling, let alone standout moments like Control's Ashtray Maze or Alan Wake II's We Sing musical sequence. Firebreak's developers previously told me they don't believe those memorable moments really fit in a multiplayer game, especially if it means forcing players to relive them repeatedly. They're probably right, but it means the new game will need to rely on emergent moments born from unpredictable, often ridiculous situations -- the kind of had-to-be-there memories that help a game stand out.With no more of FBC director Jesse Faden's story until Control 2, and no required story content in Firebreak, the new game seems poised to truly stand on its own. And without any detail on how Firebreak ties into the greater Remedyverse storyline shared across the studio's games, or how much lore it has tucked away waiting for players to discover, Firebreak will sink or swim based on how fun it is to run around as an office drone saving your workplace with wild gadgets and guns. A lot of that remains to be seen.  Watch this: I Attended the Public Nintendo Switch 2 Experience
#fbc #firebreak #handson #saving #office

The 20th-anniversary iPhone stands to offer a major jump forward in on-device processing, with memory changes potentially increasing AI response speeds in leaps and bounds.The 20th-anniversary iPhone's memory could make Siri and Apple Intelligence lightning fast. Apple is fighting to keep its iPhone lineup relevant in a marketplace infatuated with artificial intelligence. While it has a considerable advantage in working in AI for years already, including the use of its self-developed AI-focused chips, it could soon make other major changes to improve performance.According to sources of ETNews, Apple is seriously considering the possibility of adding mobile high-bandwidth memoryto its 2027 iPhone range. This would include the 20th-anniversary iPhone, which is expected to include other display and battery changes. Rumor Score: Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums
#apple039s #20thanniversary #iphone #ram #upgrade

Open shelving looks gorgeous on Pinterest and Instagram, until you try it yourself and end up with a chaotic mess of mugs, books, and random bowls. If you’ve ever stared at your shelves wondering why they don’t look effortlessly chic like the ones online, you’re not alone.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be an interior designerto make your open shelves look stunning. The trick is knowing how to style them intentionally, balancing form and function without sacrificing your sanity or creating unnecessary clutter. Whether you’re dealing with a kitchen, living room, or even bathroom shelves, these 14 practical tips will help you master the art of stylish storage.

1. Leave Breathing Room

Image Source: Jeniffer pacca interior

One of the biggest mistakes with open shelving is trying to fill every inch. But here’s the truth: space is a design choice. Leaving “breathing room” between objects creates a sense of calm and control. It allows the eye to rest, and helps your favorite pieces stand out. Don’t be afraid of a nearly empty shelf or an open corner, negative space gives your layout balance and sophistication. 

Think of it like a well-designed room: not every wall needs art, and not every table needs something on it. In fact, on Instagram and in styled homes, some of the most elegant shelves are the least crowded. Try styling one shelf with just three objects and let the rest be open. It may feel weird at first, but the visual clarity it brings is worth it.

2. Stick to a Cohesive Color Palette

Image Source: House Beautiful

A cohesive color palette can make your open shelving look clean, organized, and pulled-together. Limit your colors to 3-4 tones that complement your room’s overall design. For example, pairing shades of white, beige, and soft green with natural wood accents can create a serene, cohesive look. 

You don’t need to match every item, but when colors are repeated across the display, it helps the shelves feel like a curated collection rather than a chaotic mix. Instagram is full of examples where people use neutrals like beige, black, and white with pops of color to create harmony. It’s about repetition and rhythm, not matching everything exactly.

3. Mix Decorative and Functional Items

Image Source: Stevie storck

Open shelving is the perfect opportunity to display things that are both functional and decorative. Instead of only showcasing decorative trinkets, mix in everyday items that you use, like mugs, bowls, or utensils, but in a way that enhances the space. 

For example, store your favorite cookbooks in a neat stack and top them off with a small decorative object. In your living room, place a few stylish baskets next to a framed family photo. Instagram-worthy shelves often combine these elements effortlessly: function meets beauty. This approach helps avoid the “too-styled” look and makes the shelves feel lived-in and real.

4. Create “Moments” or Zones

Image Source: Stieves Storck

Instead of filling your shelves with a random collection of objects, create distinct zones or “moments” that each tell their own little story. One shelf could be all about your favorite kitchen essentials, think jars of spices, a colorful bowl, and a stack of neatly arranged plates. Another zone could focus on artwork, a candle, and a potted plant. Instagram shelves often feature this technique, grouping like-items together while still leaving room for space to breathe. Each shelf or corner should feel like its own little vignette, rather than a disjointed pile of stuff.

5. Keep It Simple

Image Source: House Beautiful

Sometimes the best shelves are the simplest ones. You don’t need tons of stuff to make open shelving look good,just a few well-chosen pieces can do the trick. Think a small stack of books, a nice candle, maybe a little plant or framed photo. That’s it.

When you keep things simple, your space feels calm and intentional, not busy or overwhelming. Stick to a few colors or materials you love, and repeat them here and there. Simple shelves are easier to clean, easier to update, and they let your favorite items shine. Don’t overthink it, less really can be more.

6. Add a Touch of Lighting

Image Source: House Beautiful

Lighting can instantly elevate the look of your open shelves. Try adding small LED strip lights or puck lights underneath or around the shelves to highlight your display. Lighting not only draws attention to your favorite items but also adds ambiance, especially in the evening when natural light fades.

Whether it’s a dim glow from fairy lights or a soft lamp placed on a lower shelf, lighting creates warmth and dimension. Many Instagram shelf styling photos include clever lighting solutions to make the shelves appear even more stylish and cozy.

7. Lean Into Maximalism

Image Source: House Beautiful

Who says open shelves have to be minimal? If you love color, texture, and a little visual chaos,lean into maximalism. Layer in books, bold ceramics, framed art, vintage finds, souvenirs, candles, plants, and whatever else brings you joy. The key to keeping it from feeling messy? Organize your “clutter” with intention. Create groupings, balance heights, and play with repetition.

For example, a stack of books topped with a funky candle and framed photo can feel cohesive when echoed across the shelf in a different color scheme. Maximalist shelves should tell a story, your story. They’re less about perfection and more about personality. Some of the most scroll-stopping selfies on Instagram are bursting with layered detail, but every piece feels like it belongs.

8. Stack, Lean, and Layer

Image Source: The Spruce

Stacking and leaning objects is a great way to add dimension and interest to your shelves without making them feel too cluttered. Stack books horizontally to create a base for smaller objects, or lean framed art or cutting boards at the back. This layering effect adds depth and keeps the shelves from looking too flat.

 On Instagram, you’ll often see people layering items, stacking books or trays, and using vertical space to their advantage. Play around with these techniques,leaning a mirror behind a few smaller objects or stacking plates in a more creative way can make all the difference in the overall vibe.

9. Make Books Your Design Tool

Image Source: House Beautiful

Books do more than fill space,they shape it. Use books on open shelves not just for reading, but for structure. Stack them horizontally to lift a favorite object. Line them vertically to act as natural dividers. Color-code them for impact, or turn the spines inward for a softer, neutral vibe. 

Want to create a visual anchor? Use oversized art books on a lower shelf. Or go high-contrast by mixing dark covers with light ceramics. Don’t be afraid to mix in coffee table books, cookbooks, or even old novels, books make shelves feel lived-in and loved. Plus, they’re endlessly flexible: you can rotate them seasonally, by mood, or just when the layout needs a little shake-up.

10. Bring in Greenery

Image Source: House Beautiful

Plants instantly give open shelves that fresh, alive feeling, even if the rest of your styling is super minimal. Just one small potted plant can soften sharp edges and add a pop of color. Want something dramatic? Let a trailing vine like pothos or string of pearls spill over the side. Prefer low-maintenance?

Snake plants, ZZ plant, or faux greenerywork beautifully. Greenery balances out hard surfaces and breaks up too many square or angular shapes. It adds movement, softness, and that organic touch you didn’t know your shelves needed.

11. Consider a Metal Display

Image Source: House Beautiful

Want your shelves to feel fresh, unexpected, or even a bit industrial? Bring in metal. Brass, copper, black iron, or brushed gold can add edge and shine to a wood-heavy or all-white setup. Think wire baskets, metal trays, bookends, or even sculptural objects like orbs or candle holders. These pieces add contrast, both in texture and tone.

A warm brass vase next to matte ceramics? Chic. A black iron bowl with soft linens? Instant cool. Metal also reflects light, so it subtly brightens your shelf display. If your shelves feel too “safe” or one-note, try mixing in one or two metal accents to break it up. Just keep your finishes consistent across a few items so it doesn’t feel random. 

12. Give It an Industrial Feel

Image Source: House Beautiful

If your space leans modern or you love that raw, edgy look, give your shelves an industrial touch. Start with simple materials like black iron, weathered wood, or glass. Think metal bookends, wire baskets, or even a small concrete planter. These pieces bring in texture and character without feeling fussy.

Industrial style is all about function with style, so include useful items like canisters, jars, or folded linens, just in clean, structured shapes. Keep the color palette neutral: blacks, greys, warm woods, and maybe a little greenery to soften it up. This look works especially well in kitchens, offices, or anywhere you want a more grounded, unfussy vibe.

13. Use the Rule of Threes

Image Source: Diy.aus

There’s a reason stylists swear by the “rule of threes.” When you group items in odd numbers,especially threes,it instantly feels more natural and balanced. Our eyes are drawn to asymmetry, so a trio of objects looks more relaxed and interesting than two or four. Try styling a shelf with three items: maybe a candle, a small stack of books, and a vase.

Vary the height and shape of each piece to keep it dynamic. You can also layer within the group, like leaning a photo behind a shorter object. This idea works for any shelf, big or small, and helps prevent that stiff, over-styled look.

14. Mix in Something Old

Image Source: House Beautiful

Bringing a little age to your shelves can add depth and personality. Try mixing in a vintage item, a brass candlestick, an old book, a ceramic jug, or a framed black-and-white photo. These pieces don’t have to be big or pricey. Thrift stores, flea markets, and even your grandparents’ attic can be treasure troves.

The charm of something old lies in its imperfections, the patina, the texture, the story it carries. When you pair antiques with modern decor, it creates a nice contrast that makes your shelves feel layered and lived-in, not just styled for show. One or two well-placed vintage finds can warm up the whole space and make it feel more like home. It’s an easy way to add soul without adding clutter.

Wrap Up

Open shelving isn’t just about storage, it’s a chance to show off your style in a way that feels both personal and practical. Whether you lean minimalist, love a bold mix of colors and textures, or want to keep things simple and airy, these shelf styling ideas can help you strike the perfect balance between beauty and function. 

At Home Designing, we believe great design doesn’t have to be complicated, it just needs to feel like you. So whether you’re refreshing a single shelf or rethinking an entire room, we hope these tips give you the confidence to style with ease and keep the clutter away, without losing the character that makes your home yours.
#how #style #open #shelving #without

You’ve updated to Windows 11, changed all the settings to optimize the system, cleaned out the junk, and turned off Microsoft advertising.
You’ve gotten used to the new Start menu and other quirks.
In short, you’re warmed up to Windows 11.
So now what? Time to roll up your sleeves and become a power user with these tricks!
PowerToys
Jon Martindale / IDG
Microsoft has developed a bunch of smart features that the company has deemed a little too advanced or unique to fit directly into Windows.
Instead, they are included in something called PowerToys.
It’s a program you install from Github, the Microsoft store, or via Winget in Terminal (see below), which then acts as a setup and installation program for the many features included.
You can choose which features you want to enable, and can use PowerToys even if you’re only looking for one or two features.
Here are three of my favorites:
PowerToys: Workspaces and Fancyzones – pin layouts on steroids
Jon Martindale / IDG
Do you like Windows pinned layouts, but wish they were a bit more flexible and above all more permanent? Then you should look at Workspaces and Fancyzones.
Workspaces are a way of creating sets of applications whose windows are pinned to different parts of the screen, which you can reopen at any time, even after restarting.
Fancyzones are a more advanced version of the system’s built-in pinned layouts that allows you to create your own layouts.
You can then position application windows quickly and easily in any of the preset areas of the screen.
This is most useful on large, high-resolution screens — especially ultrawide screens where using applications in full-screen mode is a waste of space.
PowerToys: Run
An example of the Run commands as found on Microsoft’s web page for the utility.Microsoft
A launcher for more efficient keyboard control — press a keyboard shortcut, start typing the name of what you want to open and press return to open.
Can also be used as a calculator and for a range of other functions.
For example, you can start with a question mark to search for files, an equal sign for calculators, two exclamation marks to see previous commands, and so on.
Powertoys: Peek
Have a look with Powertoys.Foundry
Preview images and other files from Explorer with a keyboard shortcut.
Similar to the Overview feature on Mac.
You can choose the keyboard shortcut yourself and the preview can fill most of the screen, unlike the usual small previews that Explorer can show on the right.
Further reading: Hate Windows 11? These 9 free apps make it feel like Windows 10 again
Windows Terminal
Windows 11 and later updates of Windows 10 have a new and more modern program for control via text commands.
It’s basically a shell for the old Command Prompt and Powershell, and you can open tabs with both to access unique commands that only exist in one or the other.
In everyday computer use, there may not be much to do in Terminal, but it can be very handy to know how it works.
For example, there are system settings that can only be made from here, and it is often easier to add or change in the Windows registry.
However, there is one feature that even a regular user can benefit from in everyday life: the ability to install, update, and uninstall programs.
The system has a built-in tool called Winget that is used for everything in the Microsoft store.
For other programs and terminal commands, there are several third-party options, such as Chocolatey.
For example, here’s how to install Microsoft Powertoys for your user account.
Type the command and exit with return:
winget install Microsoft.PowerToys -s winget
If you type just winget and hit return, you will see a list of available features.
If you add –help (should be double hyphen-minus), the help file for a particular feature will be displayed — for example, winget install –help for info on how to use the install feature.
If you want to install a program for all users on your computer, you can add –scope machine after install.
Terminal and Winget.Foundry
You can also update installed applications via Winget instead of having to launch the application and check for updates.
Type the following command followed by return to update all installed applications for which Winget finds updates:
winget upgrade –all –silent
For applications that require admin privileges to install/update, you will need to approve each update, but you can bypass this by running Terminal as administrator.
Chocolatey is a package manager similar to ones you may have seen on Linux.
It’s a bit more complicated to install, so if you’re curious, I recommend reading the developers’ instructions.
Let the keyboard work for you
The keyboard is often a faster way to work with your computer than clicking around with a mouse or trackpad.
Both Windows itself and most programs are full of keyboard shortcuts that instantly perform a function, open a tool, or change a setting.
Sometimes it saves just one click on a toolbar, but often it shortens the work by several steps — and you don’t have to take your hands off the keyboard.
You’re probably already familiar with common keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+C/V for copy and paste, Ctrl+P for print and Ctrl+T for new tab, but there are many, many more.
Microsoft has a huge list of shortcuts in the system, but for third-party programs you either have to look in the menus yourself or search online.
Below I have collected some really useful examples.
10 handy keyboard shortcuts
Ctrl+W – close an open document or tab, normally without closing the program.
In Word, for example, closing the last open document takes you to the File menu.Ctrl+Shift+T – opens the last closed tab in a browser.
Handy as the undo function rarely works to undo when you have closed a tab by mistake.Ctrl+Alt+V – this one you have to activate first in Powertoys, but is incredibly handy.
Pastes text from the clipboard without formatting.Win+Point – displays the emoji and character selector.Win+Shift+S – displays the screenshot tool for screenshots and screen recordings.Ctrl+Shift+Esc – opens the Task Manager.Win+[number key] – opens the nth program from the left in the Taskbar, for example Ctrl+1 for Explorer if it is on the far left of the shortcuts.Win+D – display the desktop.Win+Ctrl+Shift+B – restarts the graphics driver, can sometimes save you from a reboot if the screen has gone black or is behaving strangely.Ctrl+arrow keys – navigate one word (left/right) or paragraph (up/down) at a time.
Combine with Shift to highlight.
While you’re at it, you can also learn that Ctrl+Backspace deletes backwards one word at a time and Ctrl+Delete forwards one word at a time.
Change the way your keyboard works with Autohotkey
Autohotkey is a versatile program that can extend the functionality of your keyboard in a variety of ways.
In short, it involves writing macros — text files with a kind of code — that add or change the way your keyboard works.
You can also download and use macros created by others, or copy the parts of a macro that you find useful.
As an example, I use a macro myself that makes the Windows keyboard work like the macOS, where it’s easy to type with diacritics that aren’t built into the keyboard layout.
For example, it’s easy to type ü by pressing Alt+U followed by U, or ñ with Alt+N followed by N.
Check out the Autohotkey Reddit group for help and inspiration.
Use a local account
Using a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows has some advantages.
For example, it’s easier to activate the system and you’ll be automatically logged into some Microsoft applications.
But there are also advantages to using a local account, and some people prefer it for ideological reasons.
In fact, the easiest way to use your computer with a local account is to start with a Microsoft account and then create a separate local account that you use normally.
If you need to do something with the Microsoft account, such as activate Windows, you can temporarily log in to it.
Open Settings > Accounts > Other users and click Add account.
In the dialogue box that appears, click on I don’t have this person’s login information and then on Add a user without a Microsoft account.
Now another dialog box will open where you fill in the username and password.
You can set a pin code or use your face to sign in with Windows Hello even with a local account.
Further reading: Speed up your Windows 11 PC: 12 must-do tweaks
Control the volume of individual programs
Volume mixer for individual programs.
Foundry
Windows has a built-in sound mixer that makes it easy to change the volume of individual programs.
The only trick is that the application must be open to be visible in the settings, but the setting is not reset when you shut down the application.
You can access the volume controls in several ways, either in Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer or by clicking the volume button on the far right of the Taskbar and then the button to the right of the volume slider (scroll down a bit to see each program’s slider).
Foundry
Right-click on the Start menu to display the X menu, also called the power user menu.
It brings together shortcuts to a wide range of advanced settings that you’d normally have to root around in the old Control Panel or find via the search function, like Device Manager and Disk Management.
Also the fastest way to launch Terminal as an administrator.
Phone Link connects your mobile to your computer
Microsoft
Windows 11 can have a really close connection to your mobile, thanks to the Phone Link feature.
Microsoft has also continued to develop it so that today it is more competent than a few years ago.
For iPhone users, you can now make and receive calls, manage notifications, read and send text messages, view contacts and share files.
For Android users, everything that’s on the iPhone is included, but you also get access to the photo library.
Type Phone Link into Windows search bar to get started.
Back up smart
Hopefully you’re aware of the importance of backing up important files, so that you don’t lose priceless photos or other important items just because a hard drive fails, a computer is stolen, or if disaster strikes and a fire destroys all your electronics.
Windows 11 has a built-in backup feature that can keep certain folders and your computer settings backed up to OneDrive.
Microsoft is keen for users to activate it and will nag you if you haven’t done so, but of course it’s not a requirement.
There are many other backup solutions that are more competent, and where neither Microsoft nor anyone else can access your files.
A common recommendation among security experts that I follow myself is called the 3-2-1 principle.
It means that you should always have at least three copies of your files, on at least two different media, with at least one backup physically located in a different place.
Having 10 different backups on different hard drives in your home won’t help if your house burns down.
Windows’ backup feature can be an easy way to accomplish the latter without, for example, subscribing to a cloud backup service.
But since having enough space on OneDrive requires a Microsoft 365 subscription, there’s a better, more privacy-protective way that also allows you to back up everything on your computer if you want to: Get a third-party online backup software that supports OneDrive as a target.
Skärmdump
I recommend Arq Backup or Duplicati.
Both of these encrypt the backups so that no one but you can ever access the files.
They use deduplication which means they can save many full backups without taking up huge amounts of space.
This way, you can open a months-old backup and restore individual files, or restore the entire disc from the last backup.
Further reading: Your PC’s Windows install needs spring cleaning too.
Here’s how to do it

Source: https://www.pcworld.com/article/2777316/these-13-tips-will-make-you-a-windows-11-master.html">https://www.pcworld.com/article/2777316/these-13-tips-will-make-you-a-windows-11-master.html">https://www.pcworld.com/article/2777316/these-13-tips-will-make-you-a-windows-11-master.html
#these #tips #will #make #you #windows #master

I hoard tech devices, but funny enough, I don’t keep piles of tech accessories.
I tend to buy cables, dongles, and organizational bits infrequently.
I wait until I need them, since I figure I can always buy them.
But that soon may not be the case, as a lot of such stuff comes from China.
Even as tariff policies are changing, shipments dropped pretty dramatically over the last month and a half.
Plus, when availability goes down, prices go up.
So I’m biting the bullet and finally stocking up on a few small but key items—the same things that many friends often grumble about not having on hand.
Chances are, you’ll want to grab some of these, too.
1) Cables
Anker
Somehow, I always need more USB-C cables.
(I recently rescued an e-reader and an unwanted phone, so that may have something to do with it.) Right now a pack of two is under $10.
I also recently decided to rework my layout for networking gear within my home.
Longer cords would make the project easier, and I may as well get faster ethernet cabling anyway.
A 50-foot CAT 6 cable is $28, but if I’m willing to forgo future-proofing, I can grab a CAT 5e variant for just $10.
Plus, I always need HDMI cables.
So at least one cheapie $9 six-foot one goes in the cart, too.
2) Zipties
HAVE ME TD / Amazon
A lot of zipties are made in the U.S.—but since I don’t know if their factories rely on materials and parts made overseas, I figure this is an easy buy now, too.
A pack or two of zipties doesn’t take much space or much money ($4/each).
I own Velcro ties as well, but I hoard my gigantic roll for PC building projects and other places where I may want to adjust or redo the cabling.
I won’t stay rich in Velcro ties if I use them everywhere.
(Even if they’re only $10 for 100, they’re preeeecciouuusss to me.)
Zipties are more versatile around the house, too.
For tech, I use them to tidy up cabling at my desk, behind my PC, and along the back of my entertainment center.
But they also come in handy with my plants, organizing craft supplies, securing loose pieces of (cheap) furniture, and the like.
Pretty much every time I’m grumbling about a twist-tie breaking but being too stubborn to use one of my precious Velcro ties, I should be using a zip tie.
So now I’ll have plenty.
3) USB dongles
StarTech / Amazon
So, in theory, USB ports can hold up to removing and inserting cables many times over.
In practice, death can come faster than expected.
(RIP to the charging port on my old laptop after someone tripped over the charging cable.)
Whenever I can, I buy USB extender dongles for USB ports I know I’ll be swapping devices in and out of frequently.
I’ve been making use of a few older USB 2.0 models I already had, but recently I started using gear needing USB 3.0.
So that gets an upgrade, and I’m getting two just in case.
(May as well, at $8 a pop.)
4) Cable adapters
Cable Matters / Amazon
I have a lot of HDMI cables.
(At least, in theory I do—they’re stashed all over my place so I can’t always find them right away.
Hence buying more because I may as well.) 
I don’t have many specialty display cables, like HDMI to mini-DisplayPort and HDMI to micro-HDMI.
I use them infrequently, but they’re valuable when doing tech support or stretching life out of older hardware.
I could buy more of the specialty cables, but I’m snagging adapters instead.
(Right now, I’m starting with a $10 HDMI to mini-DP option.) Converting a standard HDMI cable gives me much more flexibility, like if I need a longer cable than the specialty one I own.

Source: https://www.pcworld.com/article/2779222/4-overlooked-pc-accessories-im-rushing-to-buy-before-prices-go-up.html" style="color: #0066cc;">https://www.pcworld.com/article/2779222/4-overlooked-pc-accessories-im-rushing-to-buy-before-prices-go-up.html
#overlooked #accessories #rushing #buy #before #prices

Is it one screen or two? Why not both? LG Display has developed an innovative micro-LED display that can separate into a pair of panels and merge back together again. We got a look at the concept product at the SID Display Week show in San Jose, California.
At first glance, it seems like you’re staring at a single screen.
But then the display seamlessly separates into two individual panels.
The screens can then merge back again with the press of a remote.
Throughout the process, the panels remain on, continuing to beam image or video.The concept certainly stands out from today's PC monitors, giving you a way to physically separate your desktop space for easier multi-tasking.
LG developed the concept to demonstrate its "zero bezel" screen technology, which eliminates the traditional black rims found on today’s displays.
With no bezels, the micro-LED screens can seemingly merge together.
On closer inspection, you can sometimes make out the line separating both panels.
But most of the time, it’s invisible or hardly noticeable. Recommended by Our EditorsThe company’s spec sheet says that each panel is 22 inches across, with a 480-by-540 resolution and refresh rates from 48 to 144Hz.
Each display can then be packed together to create a large display in custom shapes or sizes. (Credit: PCMag/Michael Kan)It's unclear if the concept will ever become an actual TV or monitor.
But an LG representative said the company is close to reaching the production stage for its zero bezel micro-LED screens.
No exact price was given, but the screens will be “expensive,” the rep added. Samsung showed off a similar concept involving “Bezel Less” OLED tiles at MWC in March.

Source: https://me.pcmag.com/en/tvs/29824/two-is-better-than-one-lg-debuts-shape-shifting-micro-led-panel">https://me.pcmag.com/en/tvs/29824/two-is-better-than-one-lg-debuts-shape-shifting-micro-led-panel">https://me.pcmag.com/en/tvs/29824/two-is-better-than-one-lg-debuts-shape-shifting-micro-led-panel
#two #better #than #one #debuts #shapeshifting #microled #panel

Check out that display.

Credit: ZTE
China's ZTE's got a new flagship phone, the ZTE Nubia Z70S Ultra, and it's coming to the U.S.
So what does that have to do with the iPhone 18? Hear me out.
ZTE's phones don't always reach U.S.
shores, which is a pity as the company has been producing excellent smartphones for more than a decade.
The new ZTE Nubia Z70S Ultra is a good example of that: It's an absolute powerhouse of a phone, with a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip inside, 12 or 16GB of memory, a triple, 50/64/50-megapixel camera sensor on the back, and a monster, 6,600mAh battery.

The phone has a 50-megapixel wide camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera that doubles as a macro camera, and a 64-megapixel telephoto camera with 2x optical zoom.

Credit: ZTE
And, according to Android Police, the Nubia Z70S Ultra will be available in the U.S., as well as Europe and other global markets.

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From the back, the phone looks like a compact camera, and ZTE sells a Retro kit that actually makes it look just like a camera, with additional physical controls for photographers.

Less is more.

Credit: ZTE
But the Nubia Z70S Ultra's biggest highlight is its display.
It's a 6.85-inch AMOLED display with a 2,688 x 1,216 pixel resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, and no camera cutout of any kind.
That's right, the display is just an uninterrupted rectangle, with no notches, islands, punch-holes, or anything else that gets in the way of viewing.
Add to that the super-slim bezels surrounding the display, and you get a phone that finally offers a zero-distraction display.

Related Stories
The optional retro kit really turns the phone into a compact camera.

Credit: ZTE
The 16-megapixel selfie camera is there, of course, but it's hidden beneath the display — a technology that's been around for a while but somehow never reached the mainstream.
Now, we've heard word that Apple is working on an under-display Face ID system for its iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max phones, paving the way for an iPhone with a fully uninterrupted display.
So, if you want to see what that's like, checking out ZTE's new Nubia phone is probably your best bet.

SEE ALSO:
New leak gives fresh info on 'all-screen' iPhone
The ZTE Nubia Z70S Ultra is actually a lot cheaper than the iPhone, too: It starts at $780 (€770 in Europe), and there's a $40/€40 discount if you pre-order it by May 28, which you can do here.
Topics
iPhone
Stan Schroeder
Senior Editor
Stan is a Senior Editor at Mashable, where he has worked since 2007.
He's got more battery-powered gadgets and band t-shirts than you.
He writes about the next groundbreaking thing.
Typically, this is a phone, a coin, or a car.
His ultimate goal is to know something about everything.


Source: https://mashable.com/article/zte-nubia-under-display-camera">https://mashable.com/article/zte-nubia-under-display-camera">https://mashable.com/article/zte-nubia-under-display-camera
#ztes #new #usbound #phone #teaser #for #the #iphone

Airbnb has taken a major step forward in its journey to become an all-in-one travel booking app.
The app now lets you book service providers, such as chefs, trainers, or hairstylists, and experiences, such as cooking classes, museum tours, water sports, and more for your trips. "People choose hotels for their services.
People choose Airbnbs for the space… Now, we're giving you the best of both worlds—amazing homes with services that make them even more special," says Brian Chesky, co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, in a press release.The updates are live on the latest version of the app, with the homepage showing two new tabs: Experiences and Services. Services at your doorstepAt launch, Airbnb's services are spread across 10 categories in 260 cities, with more to be added later on.
You can now get chefs, photographers, massages, spa treatments, personal trainers, hairstylists, makeup artists, nail specialists, ready-to-eat meals, and catering services delivered to your Airbnb. (Credit: Airbnb)All service providers will have an average of 10 years of experience, Airbnb says.
They will be added to the app only after they complete an internal verification process and submit relevant licenses and certifications. Those looking to enroll as service providers can submit an application on Airbnb's website.While booking, users will be able to view each host's qualifications, offerings, and pricing on the details page.
In our time with the app so far, we even found portfolios of photographers on their details page.
Airbnb says that many services will have an entry-level option of $50 or less.Experiences: Explore like a localThe Experiences tab is designed to help you move around a city with locals who know it the best.
At launch, the feature is available in 650 cities, with more being added every day. Recommended by Our EditorsA quick look at the tab displayed the experiences available for each popular tourist city around us.
Airbnb classifies its experiences into these categories: landmark, museum, and other cultural trips; food tours, cooking classes, and dining experiences; outdoors, water sports, and wildlife experiences; gallery tours, art workshops, and shopping experiences; workout, wellness, and beauty experiences. (Credit: Airbnb)Like Services, you can select your preferred Experiences after learning about who is hosting them, what they entail, and how much they'd cost.
We looked into a cultural trip around Goa, and we could see the name, rating, and reviews of the host, in addition to the places included in the trip and the time required.
If you're interested in hosting such experiences, Airbnb is accepting applications for that, too. The platform has also launched a premium version of Experiences called Airbnb Originals, hosted by celebrities.
You can get beach volleyball lessons from Olympian Carol Solberg in Rio de Janeiro or pastry-making lessons from chef Raphaelle Elbaz in Paris.
Airbnb is also promising a day on set with pop star Sabrina Carpenter in the future.A future update to the app coming later this year aims to make it more social.
Airbnb says you'll be able to see who has taken the experience before and ask them about it "with simple and transparent privacy controls."Along with the introduction of new features, Airbnb has made several other changes to its app experience.
For example, the Messages tab now lets you share photos and videos, and the Profile tab adds a list of your past trips and people you have met.All of the above updates are part of a $200+ million Airbnb revamp that's just kicked off.
The next two stages involve making your Airbnb profile more robust so it's "almost like a passport" and the inclusion of more AI tech, Chesky tells Wired.

Source: https://me.pcmag.com/en/mobile-apps/29826/airbnb-now-lets-you-book-meals-haircuts-museum-trips-and-more" style="color: #0066cc;">https://me.pcmag.com/en/mobile-apps/29826/airbnb-now-lets-you-book-meals-haircuts-museum-trips-and-more
#airbnb #now #lets #you #book #meals #haircuts #museum #trips #and #more

Credit: Mashable Photo Composite/Apple
Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication.
Learn more about how we select deals.

SAVE $70: As of May 14, the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm) is on sale for $359 at Amazon.
That's down from its list price of $429, saving you 16%.
Opens in a new window

Credit: Apple
Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm)

$359
at Amazon
$429
Save $70
There have been some great deals lately on a wide variety of Apple products.
If you've had your eye on the brand's smartwatches, you're in luck as a few are still discounted to low prices.
In particular, the Apple Watch Series 10 is on sale at Amazon right now, allowing you to pick it up for under $400.The Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm) has received a 16% discount that has dropped its price from $429 to $359, allowing you to save $70.
There are a few color options marked down to this price as well, so you can choose between the jet black aluminum case with a black sport band, the rose gold aluminum case with a light blush sport band, or the silver aluminum case with a denim sport band.Whether you want it for working out or to just stay on top of your general health and wellbeing, the Apple Watch Series 10 boasts plenty of features to help you out.
Not only does it include heart rate and sleep tracking, it also comes with a Training Load feature that helps you keep track of the intensity of your workouts, Activity Rings (which are useful for keeping track of calories and movement), and safety features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS.
All of this comes on top of a bigger display than its predecessors and a comfortable design that you can easily wear on the go.
If you've been hoping to pick up the Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS, 46mm), now is a great time to do it.
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Another one of our favorite deals at the moment is also over at Amazon, where you can score the iPad mini for under $400.
The best deals this week, hand-picked by Mashable's team of experts
Energizer AA Batteries (24 Count), Double A Max Alkaline Battery
—
$13.31


(List Price $21.98)

Roku Ultra 4K Ultimate Streaming Player (2024 Release)
—
$79.99


(List Price $99.99)

Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker
—
$99.95


(List Price $149.00)

Roborock Qrevo Master Robot Vacuum and Mop
—
$799.99


(List Price $1599.99)

Peloton Bike
—
$1,145.00


(List Price $1445.00)

New Apple iPad Mini (A17 Pro): Apple Intelligence, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP Front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life — Purple
—
$399.00


(List Price $499.00)

Hannah Hoolihan
Hannah Hoolihan is a freelance writer with Mashable.
She’s written for various entertainment websites since 2017, covering everything from tech to games to film.
You’ll currently find her work on IGN and Fangoria alongside Mashable, but she also has bylines at Rock Paper Shotgun, Collider, Screen Rant, and more.
When she’s not writing, she enjoys catching up with the latest films and shows — horror, in particular — and has a deep love of FromSoft games, which she continues to happily replay.

Source: https://mashable.com/article/may-14-apple-watch-series-10-deal" style="color: #0066cc;">https://mashable.com/article/may-14-apple-watch-series-10-deal
#score #off #the #apple #watch #series #amazon