-
How Microsoft’s Kernel Changes May Impact Anti-Cheat Software
Microsoft is changing how security software works in Windows, and it could have a big impact on PC gaming. After a failed update from CrowdStrike caused millions of computers to crash, Microsoft is moving antivirus and security tools out of the Windows kernel. This matters for gamers because many anti-cheat systems also run in the kernel, which is the core part of your computer's operating system. The kernel controls memory, hardware, and other low-level functions.
If Microsoft limits access to it, games may need to find new ways to stop cheaters. In this article, we will explain what kernel-level software is, why Microsoft is making these changes, which games use kernel-level anti-cheat, and what it all means for gamers and developers.
What is kernel-level software, and why does it matter for gaming?
The kernel is the core part of your computer’s operating system. It controls how software talks to your hardware. That includes memory, storage, input devices, and graphics cards. Because it has full access to the system, software that runs at the kernel level can do powerful things. But it can also cause serious problems if it crashes or gets exploited.
Kernel-level software is often used by antivirus programs and anti-cheat tools. In games, it helps detect advanced cheating methods that try to hide from regular monitoring. By operating deep inside the system, it can catch cheats before they even reach the game.
But this power comes with risks. If something goes wrong, it can crash the entire system. It can also raise privacy concerns because kernel-level tools can see almost everything on your computer. This is why Microsoft’s new policy matters. It could change how games handle security and fairness from the ground up.
Why is Microsoft changing how the kernel works?
In 2024, a broken update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike caused a global Windows crash. Over 8 million machines were affected. The problem came from a kernel-level driver, a small piece of software that had deep access to the system. When it failed, the result was a widespread Blue Screen of Death, with many businesses and users unable to recover their systems quickly.
This incident exposed a major flaw in how Windows allows security tools to operate. Giving third-party software full kernel access increases the chance of a serious system failure. It also makes it harder for Microsoft to ensure the overall stability and safety of Windows.
In response, Microsoft is working with security vendors like CrowdStrike, ESET, and Bitdefender to move antivirus and endpoint detection tools out of the kernel. The goal is to reduce risk, improve system recovery options, and make sure no single vendor’s mistake can crash millions of devices again.
Where do anti-cheat systems fit into the picture?
Just like antivirus tools, anti-cheat systems often run in the kernel. This gives them deep access to your computer, allowing them to detect hidden cheat software that runs outside the game itself. Games like Valorant, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Destiny 2 all use kernel-level anti-cheat to catch cheaters who try to bypass normal security checks.
The problem is that these systems carry the same risks as antivirus tools. A bug or security flaw in a kernel-level anti-cheat driver can crash your system or open the door to hackers. It also raises privacy concerns. Giving a game that much control over your computer can make some users uncomfortable, especially when the company running it has ties to foreign governments or handles large amounts of user data.
Now that Microsoft is changing how kernel access works, anti-cheat developers will need to find new ways to monitor for cheats without relying on deep system access. This could reshape how competitive multiplayer games are built and secured in the future.
What anti-cheat systems use kernel-level access? (Top 6)
These six anti-cheat solutions are widely used and run at the kernel level, offering deep system insight and cheat protection, but not without controversy.
1. Vanguard
* Used in: Valorant, League of Legends
* Made by: Riot Games
* Starts with your computer, runs in the kernel to prevent cheats early, but raises privacy and always‑on concerns.
2. Ricochet
* Used in: Call of Duty: Warzone, Modern Warfare II/III
* Made by: Activision
* Kernel‑mode driver detects cheats trying to manipulate the game from outside.
3. EA AntiCheat
* Used in: FIFA 23, Battlefield V, and other EA titles
* Made by: Electronic Arts
* Works at the kernel level to block code injection and system tampering.
4. BattlEye
* Used in: PUBG: Battlegrounds, Rainbow Six Siege, Escape from Tarkov, Arma 3
* Made by: BattlEye Innovations
* Can run in kernel mode when enabled; known for aggressive protection that can sometimes conflict with other software.
5. Easy Anti-Cheat (EAC)
* Used in: Fortnite, Apex Legends, The Finals, Dead by Daylight
* Made by: Epic Games
* Supports kernel‑level modules for advanced cheat detection, mostly in competitive games.
6. XIGNCODE3
* Used in: Black Desert Online, Phantasy Star Online 2, Dragon Nest
* Made by: Wellbia
* Kernel‑mode driver widely used in MMOs, though often criticized for performance impacts.
For a full list of anti-cheats that run on the kernel level and the games they support, check out this link.
How can this impact gamers? (The good and the bad)
Microsoft’s decision to limit kernel-level access could have a big effect on how games work and how players experience them.
The good:
* Better privacy and security
Kernel-level anti-cheat tools can see everything on your system. Moving away from this approach could lower the risk of data collection or unwanted background activity.
* Fewer crashes and bugs
When a kernel-level driver fails, it can crash your entire computer. If anti-cheat systems are moved to safer parts of the system, players may see fewer blue screens and system errors.
* More control for the user
Some kernel-level tools keep running even when the game is closed. These changes may give players more control over what runs on their PC and when.
The bad:
* Weaker cheat detection, at least for now
Kernel-level access helps anti-cheat tools catch cheats that run outside of the game. Without this access, it may be harder to stop advanced hacks until better tools are created.
* Growing pains for developers
Developers will need time to update or replace their current systems. Some anti-cheat tools may need to be rewritten, which could lead to bugs or security gaps during the process.
* Possible performance changes
Performance may improve or drop depending on how developers build the new detection systems. The results will likely vary between games.
What are game developers going to need to do?
Game developers who rely on kernel-level anti-cheat systems will need to rethink how they detect and prevent cheating. Microsoft is not banning kernel access right away, but it is making it harder to use and encouraging developers to move away from it. In the long term, more restrictions are likely.
To keep up, developers will need to start using new security APIs that Microsoft is building as alternatives to kernel access. These APIs aim to provide strong protection without giving software full control over system memory or hardware. Developers will also need to work closely with Microsoft and other partners to stay informed about the changes and help shape how the system evolves.
Many games may need to rebuild or upgrade their anti-cheat tools so they work without touching the kernel. This process will take time, testing, and possibly major code changes. Developers will also need to find the right balance between detecting cheats and respecting user privacy. Clear communication about how their anti-cheat tools work, and why they are necessary, will be important to keep player trust during the transition.
What will happen going forward?
Microsoft's shift away from kernel-level access marks a major turning point for Windows security and for PC gaming. In the short term, antivirus and endpoint protection tools will be the first to move out of the kernel. Anti-cheat systems will follow more slowly, since game developers need time to adjust and find new ways to fight cheating without deep system access.
Some games may continue using kernel-level drivers for now, but the long-term trend is clear. Microsoft wants to reduce the risks tied to kernel software and create a safer, more stable platform. That means developers will face increasing pressure to update their tools and follow the new guidelines.
For players, this could lead to fewer crashes, better privacy, and more control over what runs on their machines. But it may also mean a period of change, as developers test new methods and deal with growing pains. In time, if the new tools are built well, the end result could be a more secure and transparent gaming experience for everyone.
-
Goodbye Blue Screen of Death, Hello Black Screen of Death
Alas, the dreaded blue screen of death is something that many of us PC users are familiar with. Newsflash! Going forward, when your (not-so) trusty computer crashes, prepare to see the Black Screen of Death. In today’s article we’re going to unearth the truth behind Microsoft’s decision to paint it black, while equipping you with all the info you need to know about the blue SOD, as well as the black SOD. In case you’re confused about the BSOD meaning, it's got nothing to do with turf, but means both Blue, and Black Screen of Death.
Did Microsoft retire the BSOD?
If you missed the memo, or are still using Windows 10, then the answer is yes, Microsoft went ahead and changed the infamous BSOD from blue to black. First spotted in early Windows 11 Insider preview builds, the BSOD was later made official, and is now featured in all Windows 11 24H2 devices.
If you’re seeing the BSOD in blue or black, you may feel that you’ve got more to worry about than the color of the screen. Either way, the Black Screen of Death is here to stay, as part of an aesthetic and functional update in Windows 11. More on that later, first let’s dig deeper and discover what is the Blue Screen of Death!
What is BSOD?
Since the first version of Windows (1.0) in 1985, the Blue Screen of Death has been the stop error screen that appears when Windows encounters a critical system fault that it can’t bounce back from. Also known as a system crash, kernel error, or bug check, the fatal error forces the system to shutdown to prevent any further damage to your PC. In the early days, the BSOD displayed lengthy series of text -sometimes intelligible, other times complete gobbledygook. With the release of Windows 8 back in 2012, the Blue Screen of Death became slightly more relatable, displaying a frowning face emoticon and a simple message.
What causes the BSOD?
The causes of the dreaded BSOD are many, but the most common include:
* Computer Drivers. Drivers are the essential files, mostly provided by hardware manufacturers that allow devices to communicate with your operating system. According to Microsoft, around 70% of crashes are caused by third-party driver code.
* Hardware. Malfunctioning physical components may also be to blame for PC crashes. These commonly include faulty RAM, a failing hard drive or SSD, a malfunctioning motherboard, processor, or even a problematic power supply unit.
* Software. Incompatible or poorly optimized software can lead to system conflicts and a Blue Screen of Death.
* Overheating. If your system overheats from dust buildup, bust cooling fans, or excessive hardware strain it may trigger a BSOD to protect itself from damage.
* Malware. Finally, let’s not forget that viruses or other malicious software that corrupt essential system files or processes can also take you on a trip to the Blue Screen of Death.
And what’s the BSOD for?
Never a welcome sight, the BSOD is actually there to protect your PC and data integrity, providing advanced users with error codes, memory dump info, and a QR code to help you navigate to Microsoft troubleshooting. While most of us will cross our fingers and dutifully restart our computers, advanced users or pros can use the error code to identify the failure, and attempt to fix it.
For example, if the Blue Screen of Death displays: “IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL" this tells us that a driver or system process tried to access a memory address at an inappropriate interrupt request level (IRQL). Likely the issue is caused by a faulty driver, or possibly hardware issues or other software conflict. You can see how BSOD can help IT pros to repair the BSOD by pinpointing the issues causing the crash, ideally with the help of tools such as WinDbg or BlueScreenView.
Black is the new blue?
As you may have gathered from the above paragraphs, the BSOD is now black, and no longer blue, hence the Black Screen of Death. If you’re a Windows 11 user, and your PC crashes, the BSOD will never again be blue, but black forevermore, or until there’s another update in 40 years or so. The BSOD is now a simplified black screen, and Microsoft have dropped the frowning face emoticon and QR code. More similar in appearance to the black screen displayed during a Windows update, the BSOD now lists the stop code and faulty system driver that might not have been displayed during a crash dump.
In case you haven’t yet laid eyes on the Black Screen of Death, it is officially launched this summer on Windows 11 24H2 devices, so be on the lookout! The change is part of a visual, aesthetic update, modernizing the feel and UI/UX of Windows 11. Whether you’re a fan of the old blue, or the new black, the goal behind the new BSOD is for a cohesive feel from startup to shutdown, or (potentially) crash, and the backgrounds are now black.
So why the change?
Without getting into too much detail, it seems that the intention behind the Black Screen of Death is to move away from the scary Screen of Death mentality, and transform it into a screen of recovery. According to the Microsoft Windows Experience Blog, they are "streamlining the unexpected restart experience.” This includes various other features such as quick machine recovery, intended to lessen the disruption of unexpected restarts. While they don’t touch on color choices in the blog post, the focus is on simplifying the UI, and pairing it with a shortened downtime for unexpected restarts. The ultimate goal is to improve readability and alignment with Windows 11 design principles, while still supplying the technical information advanced users require.
Out of the blue and into the black
Well that’s about all we’ve got time for today, we hope that you’re now ready to bravely face the Black Screen of Death, or a bug check, kernel error, or however else you choose to refer to it! Next time you see the “Your device ran into a problem and needs to restart” message, try to frame it as a step on the path to PC recovery, not a step into the screen of death!
-
10 Best Roguelite/Roguelike Games to Play in 2025
Looking for the best roguelike and roguelite games to play in 2025? This list highlights the top titles to check out this year, with a focus on challenging gameplay, procedurally generated levels, and the thrill of starting over. These genres have grown in popularity thanks to their deep mechanics and strong replay value. Fans of all experience levels can find something exciting to try in 2025. Before we dive into the list, it’s important to explain the difference between roguelikes and roguelites.
Roguelike vs Roguelites
Roguelike games are based on a few strict rules. When you die, you usually lose everything and have to start over from scratch. These games use turn-based movement, random maps, and permanent death, which means no progress carries over between runs. The classic game Rogue from the 1980s is what gave the genre its name.
Roguelites, on the other hand, are more forgiving. While they still include random levels and challenging combat, they often let you keep some progress after each run. This can include character upgrades, new weapons, or shortcuts. Roguelites tend to feel faster and more modern, blending elements from other genres like action, platforming, or deckbuilding.
In short, roguelikes focus on pure survival with no safety net. Roguelites reward you a little each time you play, helping you slowly grow stronger.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at some of the best roguelite and roguelike games you can play in 2025. Whether you prefer intense combat, strategic thinking, or creative builds, there’s something here for every kind of player.
10 Best Roguelite/Roguelike Games to Play in 20251. Balatro
Starting with a heavy hitter from 2024, Balatro is a roguelike deck-builder that surprised everyone with just how addictive it could be. What looks like a poker-inspired card puzzler quickly reveals itself as a deep, chaotic, and endlessly replayable strategy game. Instead of combat or traditional storytelling, Balatro focuses entirely on building and breaking card synergies. You begin each run with a basic deck, aiming to beat score thresholds by crafting powerful poker hands. How you get there is where the magic lies.
Jokers are the star of the show. These cards can completely shift the direction of a run, offering unique effects and massive score multipliers. Combined with tarot cards, planet cards, and shop upgrades, the game becomes a playground for wild combos and clever experiments. Even when you fail, Balatro makes you want to dive right back in, chasing that next high-scoring hand.
The game won Best Independent Game, Best Debut Indie Game, and Best Mobile Game at The Game Awards 2024. It was also nominated for Game of the Year. In 2025, it remains one of the most creative and replayable roguelikes you can play.
2. Garden of Witches
If you’re looking for a roguelite that blends cozy aesthetics with clever gameplay depth, Garden of Witches is worth a look. Still in early access, this action roguelite casts you as Sil, the Witch of Threads, on a mission to gather her fellow witches for an annual tea party that keeps a dream goddess asleep. It sounds lighthearted, but the gameplay is no joke.
Combat revolves around fast-paced arena battles, spell builds, and powerful synergies. You choose two spells at the start of each run and can collect randomized upgrades that alter how they work. These synergies interact in creative ways, letting you build around fire damage, summoned crows, area-of-effect spells, and more. Whether you go melee or magic-focused, the game encourages experimentation and on-the-fly adaptation.
The art style is hand-drawn and full of charm, the soundtrack ranges from jazzy to intense, and the writing is surprisingly engaging. Boss fights grow more intense with each chapter, offering a real challenge, though cooldowns and melee combat still need fine-tuning. Even so, Garden of Witches already feels like a complete experience, and the developers have confirmed more content is on the way.
It’s short, sweet, and packed with personality. Keep your eye on this one.
3. Hades II
Following up a genre-defining classic is never easy, but Hades II is already hitting all the right notes. And it’s not even out of early access yet. Set in the same mythological world as the 2020 hit (Hades), Hades II puts you in control of Melinoë, the daughter of Hades, as she battles through the Underworld and the surface above. The combat is fast, stylish, and deeply satisfying. While the core gameplay will feel familiar to fans of the first game, every system has been reworked just enough to feel new. Weapons, boons, and abilities have all been redesigned, and the addition of mana-powered Omega attacks brings a new layer of depth to each run.
What makes Hades II stand out is its incredible build variety. Every run feels meaningful, and the expanded progression systems like Arcana cards and incantations give you more long-term goals to chase. Outside of combat, you’ll find well-written characters, new side activities, and meaningful choices that shape your experience.
Even though it's still in development, Hades II already plays better than many finished games. With its full release planned for later in 2025, it is almost certain to become one of the year’s standout roguelites.
4. Elden Ring Nightreign
FromSoftware is best known for Soulslike games, but Elden Ring Nightreign marks a bold shift into roguelike territory. Instead of exploring an open world at your own pace, players drop into fast-paced co-op expeditions, racing against a closing Nightreign and tackling tough bosses before time runs out. Every run features randomized gear, changing objectives, and escalating difficulty, giving it the feel of a high-stakes dungeon run mixed with battle royale elements.
Each of the eight playable classes, called Nightfarers, offers a distinct playstyle with fixed stats and unique skills. Runs revolve around gathering relics, upgrading gear, and unlocking story chapters through a system of “Remembrances.” While the storytelling is thinner than in Elden Ring, the individual class arcs still give you a reason to come back. The combat is as satisfying as ever, with faster pacing, new class skills, and plenty of ways to experiment with iconic weapons from the main game.
Despite a heavy reuse of assets and limited progression depth, Nightreign succeeds at capturing the fun of repeated runs with friends. It may not top the original Elden Ring, but as a roguelike spinoff, it’s surprisingly engaging and worth playing with a dedicated group.
5. Soulstone Survivors
After nearly three years in early access, Soulstone Survivors finally launched its 1.0 version in June 2025. It’s one of the most polished and content-rich entries in the bullet heaven genre, blending the fast-paced chaos of a survivors-like with the long-term depth of an action RPG. You start with simple attacks and basic movement, but over time you unlock dozens of characters, hundreds of skills, and countless build combinations.
This is a roguelite in the purest sense. Each run earns you resources to invest in permanent upgrades, new weapons, and massive skill trees for every hero. The combat is mostly automated, but you control movement, dashes, and targeting, creating a fast and reactive gameplay loop. The further you push into a run, the harder it gets, with curses and boss rushes scaling the difficulty into absurd territory.
What sets Soulstone Survivors apart is how much control it gives the player. You can customize everything from UI to targeting systems, and the game is packed with endgame modes like Titan Hunts, boss arenas, and a short story campaign. If you love fine-tuning builds, chasing loot, and powering up through endless progression, this is easily one of the best roguelites to play in 2025.
6. Dave the Diver
You might not expect a laid-back fishing and sushi sim to qualify as a roguelite, but Dave the Diver blends progression-based exploration, randomized deep-sea dives, and persistent upgrades in ways that make it one of the most charming roguelites you can play. The loop is simple but addictive. You dive into the ever-changing Blue Hole by day, catch exotic fish, uncover mysterious ruins, and then run your chaotic sushi restaurant by night. The further you go, the more tools, story events, and underwater secrets you unlock. Somehow, it never stops being fun.
What really sets Dave the Diver apart is its nonstop post-launch support. The game has received several free crossover DLCs, including Dredge, Godzilla, and Like a Dragon. But the most exciting update is still on the horizon. In the Jungle, a full expansion that takes Dave out of the ocean and into a dangerous rainforest, was originally planned for 2025 but has been delayed to early 2026. In this case, that's a good sign. A delayed game is eventually good, but a rushed game is forever bad.
If you haven’t played Dave the Diver yet, now is the perfect time to dive in.
7. Risk of Rain 2
Risk of Rain 2 is one of the most replayable roguelites out there, transforming the 2D platforming of the original into a chaotic 3D co-op shooter. You pick from a roster of unique survivors, each with their own skills, and fight through waves of enemies while collecting over-the-top items that stack in ridiculous ways. The longer you survive, the harder the game gets, scaling difficulty in real time until every moment feels like a bullet hell marathon.
Since its launch, the game has received two major DLCs, with a third one on the way. Survivors of the Void brought Void-tier items and new survivors, while Seekers of the Storm added five new environments and a challenging new route. The next expansion, Alloyed Collective, is expected later this year, featuring six new stages, two survivors, and expanded drone mechanics. Gearbox has been actively patching the game, and most of the launch bugs have been smoothed out.
Whether you're playing solo or with friends, Risk of Rain 2 remains a standout roguelite in 2025. With more content on the way and a strong community behind it, this is the perfect time to revisit the storm.
8. Cult of the Lamb
Cult of the Lamb blends fast-paced roguelike combat with charmingly dark cult management. You play as a possessed lamb resurrected by a mysterious deity, tasked with spreading your own religion while battling through procedurally generated dungeons. Between runs, you return to your growing cult village to build structures, perform rituals, and manage the faith of your followers. It’s a strange but incredibly satisfying balance of action and strategy.
Since launching in 2022, the game has received multiple free updates that expand on both sides of the experience. These include the Relics of the Old Faith expansion, a post-game storyline, new relic systems, and improved combat. There have also been seasonal events, a Don’t Starve Together crossover, and even a local co-op mode in the Unholy Alliance update. Cosmetic DLC packs have also been released, though all gameplay content so far has been free.
The game has sold over 4.5 million copies and won several awards, including Best Indie Game and Game of the Year from multiple outlets. While updates have slowed in 2025, the developers have confirmed that more content is still in the works. If you enjoy your roguelites with a touch of chaos and cuteness, this is an easy recommendation.
9. Drop Duchy
Drop Duchy answers a question you didn’t know you had: what if Tetris were a roguelike, and also a medieval war game? It’s a puzzle game at its core, but adds deep layers of strategy and progression. Instead of clearing rows to remove blocks, you build resource lines by matching terrain types. Plains give food, rivers give gold, and forests supply wood. Every completed line feeds into your growing stockpile of materials for the run.
Once you’ve gathered enough resources, you can build structures like shipyards or watchtowers. These generate different unit types, which you use in turn-based battles that play out at the end of each stage. Each battle becomes a puzzle of its own, where you need to predict enemy moves and play to your army’s strengths. Along the way, you collect tech cards that act as permanent upgrades and passive buffs, drawn from three unique faction decks that favor different playstyles.
The minimalist visuals, satisfying sound design, and steadily rising challenge all come together in a package that’s easy to pick up but hard to put down. Drop Duchy might seem niche at first glance, but it’s one of the most original roguelite puzzle hybrids you can play in 2025.
10. Slay the Spire 2
Slay the Spire 2 isn’t out yet, and no public demo has been shown, but it’s already one of the most anticipated roguelikes in development. The original game helped define the deckbuilding genre, setting the standard for countless titles that followed. Now, with a new Spire awakening, players are eager to see what comes next.
The official Steam page confirms a return to strategic, run-based gameplay with new cards, relics, potions, and a mix of new and returning characters. The Spire itself is described as more twisted and dangerous than before, with ever-changing paths and layered challenges that reward careful planning and creativity.
Although many of the gameplay details are still under wraps, the game is slated to enter early access sometime in 2025. If Mega Crit can build on the foundation of the original, Slay the Spire 2 has the potential to become one of the genre’s defining titles once again.
-
Copilot+ in Action: How AI Can Help You Right Now
You may have heard it a lot lately, but AI is no longer on the horizon - it’s here, and it’s already reshaping the way we work right now. With the launch of Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs, they have taken the bold step of seamlessly integrating AI capabilities directly into the traditional Windows experience. These devices are designed to help professionals work more efficiently, communicate more clearly, and create with ease.
While much of the early buzz has centered around the upcoming Recall feature, there are already several powerful Copilot+ tools available now that are capable of providing immediate value for businesses. From real-time captions to enhanced productivity tools in Microsoft 365, these features are built to support the modern hybrid workplace.
Let’s explore a few of the Copilot+ features you can use today and see how they can help unlock productivity, creativity, and smarter communication at your business.
Copilot Chat
Copilot is at the heart of the Copilot+ PC experience, and Copilot Chat brings that power directly into your workflow. Integrated across Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint, it acts as a responsive AI assistant that understands natural language and helps users complete tasks faster, with less friction.
Whether you need to draft a report, summarize meeting notes, analyze data, or build a presentation, Copilot Chat lets you ask questions and give instructions in plain English without needing to learn any new software or commands. In Word, it can help rephrase or expand a paragraph. In Excel, it can explain trends or generate formulas. In PowerPoint, it can outline slides and suggest visuals. Everything happens in context, right alongside your content.
Live Captions for Any Audio
Have you ever come across a meeting partner who doesn't speak English well, or a video in another language that doesn't come with any subtitles? Worry no more - Live Captions is a real-time transcription feature that near-instantly converts spoken audio into on-screen text across virtually any application. Whether it’s a video call, a recorded meeting, or a clip without subtitles, Copilot+ can detect the audio and display live captions directly on your screen. It even works when you’re offline, and you can customize how captions appear to suit your preferences. You can also include microphone audio, making it easier to follow in-person conversations and live discussions.
For businesses, this offers immediate advantages. It improves accessibility across teams, especially for employees who are deaf or hard of hearing. It enhances clarity during international meetings where varying accents or audio quality may pose challenges, and is currently capable of translating spoken content from 44 languages into English. In open or noisy work environments, captions provide a quiet way to follow meetings without headphones. And for busy professionals multitasking across windows, Live Captions helps ensure nothing important gets missed.
Windows Studio Effects
Ever felt self-conscious in a video call because of background noise or poor lighting? Windows Studio Effects uses AI to enhance video and audio quality during calls, applying features like auto framing, eye contact correction, background blur, and voice focus in real time. These effects work in real time with minimal impact on performance - something only possible with the AI acceleration built into Copilot+ PCs.
For professionals working in hybrid or remote settings, Windows Studio Effects helps ensure a more polished and engaging presence during meetings and presentations. Eye contact correction uses AI to subtly adjust your gaze so that it appears you’re looking into the camera, creating a natural sense of connection. Auto framing keeps you centered in the frame as you move, giving you the freedom to be more expressive without breaking focus.. Background blur uses AI to detect and separate you from your environment with clean, professional results, while voice focus suppresses distracting background noise, even in open offices or busy homes.
Whether you're meeting with clients, pitching to stakeholders, or leading a team discussion, Studio Effects helps you show up with clarity and confidence.
Cocreator in Paint
What if a few words could turn your ideas into images? Cocreator in Paint is an AI-powered image generation tool built directly into the Windows Paint app we all know and love. With just a few keywords, users can prompt the AI to create pieces of art or visual concepts, making it possible to go from idea to image in seconds - no expertise required.
For businesses, Cocreator offers a fast and accessible way to bring your ideas into reality. Marketing teams can mock up campaign concepts without waiting on external resources, and product managers can quickly generate rough visuals for presentations or feature proposals. Teams will be able to create reports, newsletters, or slide decks using Cocreator to add that extra polish.
Importantly, Cocreator also supports responsible AI use. A built-in content filter helps prevent the generation of inappropriate images, and Microsoft ensures privacy and safety by processing prompts securely and transparently. Together, these safeguards make Cocreator a lightweight, creative tool that lowers the barrier to image design while staying mindful of trust and security.
Auto Super Resolution
Have a high-res image or video that looks choppy or blurry on your screen? Auto Super Resolution (Auto SR) uses AI to upscale visuals and optimize performance, especially for
graphically demanding content. Whether you’re working with images, videos, or real-time applications, Auto SR enhances clarity and smoothness without overloading your system.
While often highlighted as a boon for gaming, this feature also benefits business users handling high-resolution media or multitasking across visual-heavy workloads. Designers, marketers, and engineers can preview assets more fluidly, even when running multiple applications. Teams working with 3D renderings, product mockups, or video editing tools will see improved responsiveness without needing a high-end GPU setup.
Getting Started with Copilot+
The Copilot+ features mentioned above aren’t experimental - they’re already available on your favorite Acer TravelMate devices. To take full advantage of them, you’ll need a Copilot+ PC equipped with the latest AI hardware, such as a neural processing unit (NPU) optimized with over 40+ TOPS of on-device AI performance.
Acer TravelMate Copilot+ PCs are purpose-built to meet the needs of modern professionals. With enterprise-grade security, powerful Intel® Core™ Ultra processors with Intel vPro®, military-grade (MIL-STD) durability, and built using environmentally conscious PCR materials, they’re built to go the distance - while helping your business do the same with Copilot.
Conclusion
AI is already transforming the way we work, and with Copilot+ PCs, that transformation is being built into the tools we use every day. From simplifying communication with live captions to accelerating content creation and boosting productivity in Microsoft 365, these features are ready to support the demands of modern businesses right now.
Remember to stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll explore some of the more newer and upcoming Copilot+ features planned for the not-so-distant future.
-
What to Expect When Windows 10 Reaches End of Support
Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 EOS (End of Support) will be on October 14th, 2025. Windows 10 will not magically disappear from computers after this date, but free technical assistance, feature updates, and security updates will no longer be available. This article will explore the wider implications of the Windows 10 EOS and give tips on how to navigate it as smoothly as possible.
What happens after the Windows 10 EOS?
The Windows 10 EOS is fast approaching. But what does that mean exactly? Here’s a rundown of what will happen after the Windows 10 EOS in October this year.
1. Security updates stop
Free Windows 10 security updates will end on October 14th, 2025. This means that computer systems will no longer receive the security patches that protect them from harmful malware, making them more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Microsoft has introduced extended security updates (ESU) for users who sync their PC settings to the cloud using their Microsoft account. The ESU program costs $30 USD and will end on October 13th, 2026.
2. Bug fixes and improvement updates stop
Fall of 2025 also marks the end of free Microsoft 10 bug fixes and improvement updates. It is part of the natural Windows lifecycle, and users should make additional provisions to ensure their devices are as secure as possible.
3. No more new features
Microsoft will also cease to provide new Windows 10 features alongside security updates and bug improvements. This means that there will be no more new features for Windows 10 after the EOS date.
4. No free Microsoft support help
Windows 10 users have been able to enjoy product assistance if something goes wrong. However, official technical support from Microsoft will end in October 2025, which may be challenging for IT teams and users around the world.
What can I do about the Windows 10 EOS?
Although Microsoft is not forcing users to update their software, and Windows 10 computers will still function, there are risks involved in not updating to Windows 11. Here are some suggestions about how to handle the Windows 10 EOS.
1. Upgrade to Windows 11 if possible
The simplest way to overcome the Windows 10 EOS is to upgrade to Windows 11 if possible. However, an estimated 400 million Windows 10 computers around the world cannot upgrade to Windows 11, leaving them potentially vulnerable to cyberattacks unless they make alternative arrangements.
2. Pay for or get free extended security
Windows 10 users can take advantage of the extended Microsoft security updates until October 2026.
3. Switch to a different operating system
Operating systems are software that manages the hardware resources on a laptop or PC. There are other operating systems available besides Windows. Linux is an open-source operating system that users can install on as many computers as they like for free. Linux may not be a household name like Windows, but it is the brains behind many systems, such as Android. Users can use Linux to download applications just as they would on a Windows device.
4. Purchase a new PC
For some users, the Windows 10 EOS may be an ideal opportunity to purchase a new PC. Acer Swift is a range of thin and lightweight laptops designed for users on the go. They are made with premium hardware to handle demanding software requirements and display images in stunning true-to-life colors. There are also AI-powered Swift laptops available.
Moreover, the Acer Aspire range offers all-inclusive laptops that are great for everyday use. They are packed with features and come in various designs and size options while helping to protect the planet with post-consumer recycled materials and recyclable packaging.
Conclusion
Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14th, 2025. Although these devices will not stop working after this date, the millions of Windows 10 users around the world must decide how to navigate this transition. The extended security updates give users little breathing room, but they will still have to make provisions like paying for security updates or moving to another operating system before the 2026 deadline. We also have some tips on how to upcycle or recycle a Windows 10 PC. If now might be a good time to consider upgrading to a new Windows 11 device, check out the Acer online store for a range of powerful devices.
-
What is PNG 3.0 and Why PNG is Making a Comeback
What is PNG? PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics. It’s a type of image file that supports lossless compression, meaning it keeps all the image data without sacrificing quality. Unlike JPEGs, which compress by removing detail, PNG files are perfect for images where clarity and sharp lines matter, like logos, charts, or screenshots. They also support transparent backgrounds, which is why they’re often used in web design and digital art.
When people search for how to make a PNG, they usually mean creating an image with a transparent background or saving a high-quality version of a picture without losing detail. Most modern photo editors like Photoshop, GIMP, or even online tools like Canva let you export images as PNGs in just a few clicks.
Why did PNG lose the spotlight?
Although PNG files remained popular for things like screenshots, UI assets, and transparent images, the format started to feel outdated. While other image formats like WebP, HEIF, and AVIF pushed forward with better compression and new features, PNG hadn’t seen a major update since 2003. For over two decades, the PNG spec stayed mostly the same, even as the internet, software, and display technology changed around it.
Formats like WebP offered smaller file sizes with good quality, which made them ideal for websites trying to load faster. AVIF brought built-in HDR support. PNG, by comparison, lacked animation, didn’t officially support Exif metadata, and had no HDR options. So while it was never abandoned, PNG slowly lost its edge in areas where innovation mattered most.
That’s what makes PNG 3.0 such a big deal. It’s a long-overdue refresh that brings the format back in line with modern expectations.
What is PNG 3.0 and what does it bring to the table?
PNG 3.0 is the biggest update to the format in over 20 years, and it’s more than just a version bump. It brings key upgrades that make PNG competitive with modern image formats again, while still keeping what made it great in the first place.
Here’s what’s new:
* HDR support: PNGs can now display High Dynamic Range images, which means brighter highlights, deeper shadows, and a wider range of colors, especially useful on newer displays. This is done efficiently, adding just 4 bytes to the file plus standard chunk overhead.
* APNG support: What is APNG? It stands for Animated Portable Network Graphics. Think of it as a PNG with multiple frames, allowing for smooth, high-quality animations. It’s like a modern upgrade to the GIF, but with better color, sharper images, and full transparency. While APNG has existed unofficially for years, mainly in Firefox, it’s now officially part of the PNG spec. This opens the door to more consistent support across browsers and creative tools.
* Exif metadata support: Just like JPEGs, PNGs can now include Exif data: info like camera settings, GPS coordinates, copyright notices, and more. This is a major improvement for photographers and digital asset management.
* Spec cleanup and fixes: The update also includes general tidying up, fixing old errors, clarifying language, and aligning with how the format is actually used in real-world software.
All of this makes PNG 3.0 not just a refresh, but a serious step forward for a format many thought had stopped evolving.
What does this mean for us?
For bloggers, designers, and web developers, the return of PNG is more than just technical news. It’s a practical upgrade to a tool many of us already use every day.
* Better visuals without changing formats: You don’t need to adopt a new file type to get modern features. With HDR and animation now supported, PNG 3.0 lets you do more with the same trusted format. Think sharper images on Retina and HDR displays, smoother UI animations, and cleaner visuals without relying on WebP or AVIF.
* Simplified workflows: Support for Exif metadata makes PNGs more useful for photo-heavy blogs and design portfolios. You can now include copyright info, camera settings, and geotags without switching to JPEG.
* Consistent browser and tool support: Most modern browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox) and creative tools (Photoshop, DaVinci Resolve) already support the new spec. You can start using PNG 3.0 features right away without waiting on ecosystem adoption.
* APNG for lightweight animations: Want to animate a button, logo, or banner without loading a bulky video or third-party plugin? APNG gives you high-quality, transparent animations that are ideal for responsive websites and mobile apps.
* Future-proofing your content: The spec is now actively maintained, with more updates like better compression and parallel decoding already in the works. PNG is no longer standing still. It is evolving with the web.
In short, PNG is no longer just the safe choice. It’s the smart one too.
How to start using PNG 3.0
You don’t need a special file extension or a “Save as PNG 3.0” button to begin using the new features. If you’re using up-to-date software, you’re likely already producing PNG 3.0-compliant files. Programs like Photoshop, DaVinci Resolve, and Aseprite support many of the new capabilities, including HDR color, animation, and metadata. For HDR images, exporting with modern color profiles like Rec. 2100 will automatically embed the necessary data. If you’re working with animation, tools like APNG Assembler or ffmpeg allow you to create high-quality animated PNGs with transparency and smooth playback. To include metadata such as GPS location, copyright, or camera settings, apps like ExifTool or modern photo editors can embed that information directly into the file.
Even though the files still use the standard .png extension, they now carry more advanced features under the hood. If you want to check what’s inside your PNGs, you can use tools like ImageMagick, ExifTool, or pngcheck to inspect the color space, metadata, and animation chunks. The key is to keep your tools updated and explore the new options available during export. As the ecosystem catches up, PNG 3.0 will quietly become the new default in many workflows.
Conclusion
PNG was never truly gone, but with the launch of PNG 3.0, it’s more capable and future-ready than ever. With support for HDR, animation, and metadata now officially part of the spec, this long-standing format is stepping back into the spotlight. Whether you're a designer looking for cleaner visuals, a web developer adding lightweight animations, or a blogger managing image-heavy content, PNG 3.0 gives you modern features without forcing a shift to unfamiliar formats. It’s a quiet revolution, but one worth paying attention to.
