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| PC World - 30 Aug (PC World)Black Myth: Wukong immediately appealed to my 1980s nostalgia. Fueled by my memories of the TV show Monkey Magic, I naturally jumped at the chance to play the iconic Monkey (in this case Monke) in a game similarly inspired by the classic Chinese tale Journey to the West.
I’m in good company according to the game’s Developer Game Science, which reported initial sales of 10 million downloads in the first three days of its release. That astounding figure even beats sales of FromSoftware’s Elden Ring, which says a lot.
If you haven’t bought the game yet, it’s pure magic — from its fast-paced combat to mad boss fights, there are many hours of staff-splitting fun to be had.
That said, one thing puzzles me: Why on earth are people calling it a Soulslike? Black Myth: Wukong isn’t a Soulslike, even if it does borrow some of FromSoftware’s game mechanics. It is, however, a refreshing new take on an action game that I really want to see more of.
FromSoftware’s brilliant Souls mechanics are diffusing into the broader action category – even into titles that are brave enough to be quite different…
What is a Soulslike game?
Developer FromSoftware’s games have given rise to the genre “Soulslike,” which is testament to how groundbreaking they really are.
I cut my teeth in this genre with Dark Souls, but Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree really refined the experience with their enthralling mix of environments and ghoulish beasts. A whole bunch of other games have followed suit capitalizing on that winning formula, games like Lies of P and Ashen.
What makes these games Soulslike is a complex conflagration of FromSoftware-like gameplay mechanics and design. But to name a few of the hard-to-ignore hallmarks, most have large intricate maps with circular pathways, high difficulty, and gameplay that hinges on the use of stamina bars. Their player combat mechanics lean heavily on dodge-and-roll melee attacks, and they also feature tons of boss fights.
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring is a true Soulslike that’s been lauded as one of the best games of its kind.
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring is a true Soulslike that’s been lauded as one of the best games of its kind. FromSoftware
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring is a true Soulslike that’s been lauded as one of the best games of its kind. FromSoftware
FromSoftware
Adding to that list of mechanics, these games have checkpoint systems with player progression hinging on them reaching set locations. Most also have upgradeable items and player abilities and enemies that respawn. Players also get penalized when they die, either losing loot or XP.
Soulslike gameplay, then, revolves around a balance between risk and reward. There’s a lot at stake in venturing out into the world to take on foes, which makes any kind of progression hard but thoroughly satisfying.
Why Black Myth: Wukong isn’t a Soulslike
Black Myth: Wukong doesn’t thumb its nose at all those mechanics. Rather, it incorporates the best parts of each while forging its own path.
That’s refreshing, because it means it appeals to players that love action games but simply don’t like, or are getting a little fatigued with, the sameness of Soulsian mechanics.
But how exactly is the game different?
Take the boss battles, for instance. Like most Soulslike games, bosses are plentiful, and some are as hard as heck to defeat. But while boss attacks in Soulslikes tends to focus on intensity and high damage in hits, bosses in Black Myth: Wukong have smarter combat mechanics and a greater variety of moves. There’s not as much emphasis on cheaply won attacks either.
That keeps gameplay fluid and engaging. It also demands more from you the player. I found myself in deep concentration most of the time, my eyes glued to my screen watching intently for opportunities to deliver my blows — such was the intricacy of battles.
In Black Myth: Wukong combat is intricate.
In Black Myth: Wukong combat is intricate. Game Science
In Black Myth: Wukong combat is intricate. Game Science
Game Science
If you invest in developing skills, they won’t go to waste as they can in Shadow of the Erdtree, where you could easily run afoul of cheeky area of effect (AOE) attacks from big bosses. You will last a little longer each attempt, which ultimately is more of a kick when you finally take down bosses like Erlang or Supreme Inspector.
That doesn’t mean combat is easy. Unlike Elden Ring, in Black Myth: Wukong there are more nuances to combat to learn. There’s no block or parry to lean on, for instance. Similarly, button mashing won’t get you very far. There aren’t as many combos as in the Soulslike Star Wars Jedi Survivor, either.
Indeed, rather than just seeming to be cloned from FromSoftware’s master moves archive, like Yaske’s in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows could be — yawn! — Monke’s moves feel new and exciting. To succeed, you must time your attacks and apply special moves.
Black Myth: Wukong’s story is inspired by the classic tale Journey to the West.
Black Myth: Wukong’s story is inspired by the classic tale Journey to the West. Game Science
Black Myth: Wukong’s story is inspired by the classic tale Journey to the West. Game Science
Game Science
The maps, too, are also completely non-Soulslike, in that they’re not vast open spaces requiring endless exploration. Instead, you must follow a beaten path between bosses. In Black Myth: Wukong linear progression makes complete sense. It syncs nicely with the game’s backstory, one that’s steeped in Chinese mythos and history.
You are, in fact, experiencing an interpretation of an ancient tale that you’re invited to get engrossed in. Journey to the West, written in the 16th Century, is one of the most influential stories in East Asia even today, and so it’s a tale worth knowing. It’s also easier to follow than most Dark Souls games.
Monke’s moves keep gameplay interesting.
Monke’s moves keep gameplay interesting.
Game Science
Monke’s moves keep gameplay interesting.
Game Science
Game Science
The linear progression also makes comparing and contrasting progress with friends a little easier too. The experience ultimately feels closer to God of War than any Soulslike game I’ve ever played.
Checkpoints do play a part in your player’s progression, but while you could get seriously bogged down in Elden Ring or Dark Soul’s III, in Black Myth: Wukong progression doesn’t feel as stagnant or prone to luck. That’s mostly because there is no penalty for dying.
It’s also due to the fact that your stamina bar is a little more forgiving. Yes, managing stamina is required to pull off moves in combat but after a few upgrades it has a lot less effect than in some Soulsian titles.
One thing I also can’t overlook is the game’s support for Nvidia DLSS Super Resolution and AMD Fidelity FX Super Resolution right out of the box — unlike some janky Souls titles. That may seem trivial to some, but it’s no small thing for us at PCWorld, where we’re forever trying to optimize games for our hardware.
Why a mislabel isn’t helpful
The fact that Black Myth: Wukong has been mislabeled a Soulslike speaks volumes about what’s happening in the action genre right now.
FromSoftware’s brilliant Souls mechanics are diffusing into the broader action category — even into titles that are brave enough to be quite different. While that’s understandable, it’s not helpful to label all of these titles “Soulslike.” Doing so infers that the action genre is somehow static, which is certainly not the case.
Black Myth: Wukong proves the action game genre is evolving.
Black Myth: Wukong proves the action game genre is evolving. Game Science
Black Myth: Wukong proves the action game genre is evolving. Game Science
Game Science
Black Myth: Wukong proves action games are continually evolving — taking the best parts of what’s come before but adding a whole lot of new and exciting mechanics of their own. That’s an encouraging sign.
It’s also testament to Game Science’s development process. The company has obviously put making the best game possible ahead of trying to conform to a formula — one that may have struck a chord in the past, but that some players are getting a little tired of. That’s great news for everyone. Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | Stuff.co.nz - 24 Aug (Stuff.co.nz) New hazard maps for Nelson`s controversial Plan Change 29 are already causing “panic” for insurers and house buyers, experts warn. Read...Newslink ©2025 to Stuff.co.nz |  |
|  | | PC World - 20 Aug (PC World)Robot vacuums have become a staple in many homes, offering a convenient way to keep floors clean with minimal effort. But getting the most out of your robot vacuum isn’t as simple as pressing “start” and walking away.
A little strategy is needed to enhance its performance, extend its lifespan, and ensure your floors are as clean as possible.
Whether you’re a new owner or a seasoned user, these practical tips will help you maximize your robot vacuum’s effectiveness and make it a trusted household helper.
Tip #1: Place the charging dock in an accessible location
It might seem like a small detail, but the location of your robot vacuum’s charging dock can make a huge difference in terms of battery life and cleaning efficiency.
Place the charging dock in an open, accessible area where the vacuum can easily return to recharge. Avoid placing it in tight corners or behind furniture, where the vacuum might struggle to get in and out or find its way back.
By giving it a clear path to the dock, you ensure that your vacuum is always charged and ready to go when you need it.
Placing your robot vacuum’s charging dock in an open area will help optimize its battery life and ensure it’s always ready to go.
Placing your robot vacuum’s charging dock in an open area will help optimize its battery life and ensure it’s always ready to go.Michael Ansaldo/Foundry
Placing your robot vacuum’s charging dock in an open area will help optimize its battery life and ensure it’s always ready to go.Michael Ansaldo/Foundry
Michael Ansaldo/Foundry
Tip #2: Declutter and secure loose cables before cleaning
Robot vacuums are designed to navigate around your home autonomously, but they aren’t always adept at dodging clutter.
Before you send your vacuum to work, take a few minutes to pick up any loose items like toys, clothes, or cables that might be lying on the floor. These obstacles can cause your vacuum to get stuck or even damage the device.
Further reading: From bump to SLAM: Robot vacuum navigation tech explained
Securing loose cables is particularly important, as they can easily get tangled in the vacuum’s brushes, potentially causing malfunctions.
Decluttering your space before each cleaning will not only prevent interruptions, but it will also allow the vacuum to move more freely, resulting in a more thorough clean.
Robot vacuums are designed to navigate autonomously, but they sometimes struggle with obstacles. Decluttering before cleaning can prevent it from bumping into things or getting stuck.
Robot vacuums are designed to navigate autonomously, but they sometimes struggle with obstacles. Decluttering before cleaning can prevent it from bumping into things or getting stuck.iRobot
Robot vacuums are designed to navigate autonomously, but they sometimes struggle with obstacles. Decluttering before cleaning can prevent it from bumping into things or getting stuck.iRobot
iRobot
Tip #3: Use virtual barriers and no-go zones
Many robot vacuums come equipped with smart mapping technology and the ability to set virtual barriers or no-go zones through their companion apps. These features are incredibly useful for protecting delicate items or keeping the vacuum out of areas where it might get stuck.
For instance, if you have a room with lots of tight spaces or fragile objects, you can set up a virtual barrier to prevent the vacuum from entering that area.
This not only helps avoid potential mishaps but also ensures that your vacuum can focus on cleaning the areas that matter most without unnecessary interruptions.
Tip #4: Schedule strategically for optimal cleaning
A convenient feature of most robot vacuums is the ability to schedule cleanings. It works best if you think strategically about when your vacuum should be running.
In most cases, the best time to schedule cleanings is during periods when your home sees the least foot traffic—this could be when you’re out of the house for work, or during the night when everyone is asleep.
By scheduling your vacuum to clean during these low-traffic times, you minimize the chances of it being interrupted or needing to dodge obstacles, leading to a more efficient and thorough cleaning session.
Additionally, if you have pets, scheduling cleanings at times when they’re less active can prevent the vacuum from getting tangled in pet toys or encountering accidents.
The key is to align the cleaning schedule with your household’s routine to ensure the vacuum can work uninterrupted, leaving your floors spotless without you even noticing it’s been at work.
Tip #5: Adapt cleaning modes to different floor types
Most robot vacuums boast cleaning modes that can be tailored to different surfaces, such as carpets, hardwood, or tile. It’s crucial to utilize these modes according to your specific flooring.
On carpets, for example, you might want to select a mode with stronger suction to pull dirt and debris out of the fibers. On hardwood or tile, a gentler mode with a slower brush speed might be more appropriate to avoid scratches while still picking up dust and debris effectively.
Some advanced models can automatically detect the type of surface they’re cleaning and adjust the mode accordingly. However, if your vacuum doesn’t have this feature, taking a few moments to manually switch modes can make a big difference in cleaning quality.
Tip #6: Determine your ideal cleaning frequency
Finding the right cleaning frequency for your home depends on several factors, including the size of your household, the presence of pets, and the amount of foot traffic your floors receive. There’s no universal solution, but here are some general guidelines:
Daily cleaning: If you have pets, suffer from allergies, or your home experiences high foot traffic, daily cleaning is ideal. This routine helps to keep pet hair, allergens, and dirt at bay, ensuring that your floors are consistently clean, and your robot vacuum doesn’t get overtaxed by high debris levels.
Every other day: For homes with moderate activity levels and no pets, cleaning every other day can be sufficient. This schedule helps keep your home clean while also preserving the battery and extending the lifespan of your vacuum.
Weekly cleaning: If your home has low activity levels or there are areas that are used infrequently, a weekly cleaning might be all that’s needed. This approach works well for guest rooms, formal living areas, or other spaces that don’t see daily use.
Remember, more frequent cleaning doesn’t necessarily mean better. It’s about finding the right balance to keep your home clean without overworking your vacuum.
Tip #7: Keep brushes and filters clean
It’s important to perform regular maintenance to keep your robot vacuum running smoothly. Over time, the brushes and filters of your vacuum will accumulate dust, hair, and other debris, which can hinder its performance if not cleaned properly.
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning the brushes and filters at least once a week, but this can vary depending on how often you use the vacuum and the conditions in your home.
Regular maintenance of your robot vacuum’s brushes and other components is essential to keep it cleaning effectively.
Regular maintenance of your robot vacuum’s brushes and other components is essential to keep it cleaning effectively.Ben Patterson/Foundry
Regular maintenance of your robot vacuum’s brushes and other components is essential to keep it cleaning effectively.Ben Patterson/Foundry
Ben Patterson/Foundry
Start by removing the brushes and clearing any hair or fibers that have wrapped around them. For the filters, tapping them out to remove loose dust or rinsing them (if washable) can help maintain strong suction power. It’s also a good idea to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for any specific maintenance tips.
Further reading: Your Roomba is filthy. Here’s how to get it completely clean
Regular upkeep of these components will extend the lifespan of your vacuum and ensure it continues to clean your home as efficiently as possible.
Tip# 8: Don’t forget smart mapping and learning features
Many of the latest robot vacuums come equipped with advanced smart mapping and learning capabilities. These features allow your vacuum to create a detailed map of your home over time, which it then uses to navigate more efficiently. By taking full advantage of these features, you can significantly enhance your vacuum’s cleaning performance.
For instance, once your vacuum has mapped your home, you can set specific cleaning zones or direct the vacuum to clean a particular room or area. This is especially useful if you only need to clean a high-traffic area like the kitchen or living room without having the vacuum clean the entire house. Smart mapping also allows the vacuum to remember obstacles, reducing the chances of it bumping into them or getting stuck.
Some models even allow you to save multiple maps, making them ideal for multi-level homes. This way, you can move the vacuum to a different floor, and it will know exactly where to clean without needing to remap the area.
The more your vacuum learns about your home’s layout, the better it becomes at navigating efficiently and covering every inch of your floors.
The final sweep
Embracing the convenience of a robot vacuum is about more than just automating your cleaning routine—it’s about enhancing the way you maintain your home.
By approaching your vacuum’s usage with a bit of strategy, you can unlock its full potential and enjoy a home that’s consistently clean without the usual hassle.
As you experiment with different settings, schedules, and features, you’ll likely discover new ways your vacuum can work for you and be a better ally in keeping your home tidy. Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | PC World - 16 Aug (PC World)While using a VPN you may have noticed the option to select a VPN protocol. You know, those weird, seemingly random IT-sounding names that sometimes resemble alphabet soup: OpenVPN, WireGuard, IKEv2, SSTP, etc. So what exactly are those protocols, do they make a difference, and why should you care?
Every VPN uses protocols to establish a connection between your device and a VPN server and then securely transmit data. Choosing the right protocol option can have a big impact on the overall speed and security of your connection. Here I’ll explain what a VPN protocol is, discuss the most common protocols you’re likely to come across, and give advice to help you make an informed decision on which to use.
Choosing the right protocol can help, but they are only as good as the VPN provider itself. Remember to pair a good protocol with a top VPN service to get the best results.
What is a VPN protocol, anyways?
Simply put, a VPN protocol is a set of rules that determine how data is encrypted and sent between a device and a VPN server.
All internet-connected devices need a protocol in order to travel between your device and the internet or other devices on a network. They usually follow the Internet Protocol, or IP, which every device already knows and runs. Think of it like the Google Maps of the internet: You provide the source and the destination, then Google Maps finds the route and directs you on how to get there based on predetermined traffic laws.
A VPN protocol on the other hand, redirects your data traffic through a secure, encrypted tunnel before reaching its destination. This redirection and encryption requires a different set of rules than the standard IP, and these new rules are the VPN protocol. Since the VPN reroutes your data through its own servers, your device isn’t familiar with it and requires new instructions.
Much like traffic laws, a VPN protocol provides instructions on where to go, how fast to go, and how safely your data travels to its destination. To continue with the Google Maps analogy, a VPN protocol is like a separate, secret GPS that only your device knows and it might take you on a different — likely less efficient — route, but it’ll be safer because only your device knows it.
Most common VPN protocols
OpenVPN
Most VPN providers will allow you to choose your OpenVPN protocol preference.
Most VPN providers will allow you to choose your OpenVPN protocol preference. Sam Singleton
Most VPN providers will allow you to choose your OpenVPN protocol preference. Sam Singleton
Sam Singleton
OpenVPN is an extremely popular open-source protocol created back in 2001. It is known for both its security and versatility. This is down to the fact that it can be run on either TCP (transmission control protocol) or UDP (user datagram protocol). Without boring you too much with the details of these two, TCP maintains a strong connection between a receiver and sender and allows for great reliability. UDP, on the other hand, is connectionless, meaning you may lose some data transfer reliability, but the speeds will be faster.
OpenVPN is one of the most commonly used VPN protocols due to its mix of security and speed. And due to its open-source nature, the community-supported open source software (OSS) project allows developers to continually examine and update the OpenVPN code for vulnerabilities.
It is generally best to use OpenVPN for private web-surfing and other activities, especially when done over unsecure public Wi-Fi networks. Since OpenVPN is one of the most secure protocols, it does a excellent job of keeping you safe when you have to connect to potentially risky networks.
IKEv2/IPsec
IKEv2 is most often found on mobile VPN apps due to its on the go capabilities.
IKEv2 is most often found on mobile VPN apps due to its on the go capabilities.Sam Singleton
IKEv2 is most often found on mobile VPN apps due to its on the go capabilities.Sam Singleton
Sam Singleton
Internet key exchange version 2 (IKEv2) and Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) are often used in tandem. IKEv2 was jointly developed by Microsoft and Cisco and creates a secure tunnel connecting a device to a VPN server. IPSec then provides the encryption and authentication.
IKEv2’s best feature is that it can easily and quickly re-establish connections after network disruptions or while switching networks. This advantage allows for seamless switching between different network interfaces, such as from Wi-Fi to cellular.
Due to its network switching agility, IKEv2 is best used when you expect to frequently change network connections, such as while traveling or on the move when your mobile device may alternate between Wi-Fi and cellular.
WireGuard
WireGuard is a lightweight and fast protocol.
WireGuard is a lightweight and fast protocol. Sam Singleton
WireGuard is a lightweight and fast protocol. Sam Singleton
Sam Singleton
WireGuard is the newest and fastest protocol currently taking the VPN industry by storm. It uses state-of-the-art cryptography that outperforms even OpenVPN. And just like its forbearer, it is also open-source.
Released in 2015, WireGuard emphasizes simplicity making it extremely lightweight, efficient, and easy to build around. The latter has allowed many VPN providers to work off of WireGuard in order to build their own proprietary protocols — looking at you NordLynx.
Since WireGuard is hands down the fastest protocol currently available, it is best used when speed is a priority. Whether you’re streaming, playing online games, or downloading files, WireGuard should be your go-to.
SSTP
SSTP, or Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol, was created by Microsoft and is primarily available on Windows systems. It provides comparable speed and security to most other protocols on this list, but its lack of compatibility means it isn’t as widely used.
SSTP is an absolutely fine protocol to use for Windows users, but Mac and Linux users may need to consider other options.
L2TP/IPsec
L2TP, or Layer 2 Tunneling protocol, and IPsec are another common protocol duo. L2TP is one of the oldest protocols — developed in the 1990s. It connects a user to a VPN server, but does not encrypt or authenticate. Therefore, it relies on the tools found in IPsec to accomplish these security tasks instead. Despite its wide compatibility, L2TP is one of the slowest protocols still available.
L2TP/IPsec isn’t very common among modern VPN providers, but its compatibility and long history of use means that companies often use it to connect separate branches into one network.
PPTP
PPTP, or Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol, was developed by Microsoft in the late 1990s and is one of the earliest VPN protocols. It still relies on outdated encryption and is therefore considered to be rather weak and susceptible to security vulnerabilities.
It is rarely used by VPN providers today, who instead opt for other protocols with much stronger and more advanced encryption ciphers.
I can’t honestly recommend that the average VPN user work with the PPTP protocol. Almost any other option on this list would be better. Besides, you aren’t likely to find PPTP as a protocol option from your VPN provider anyways.
Which VPN protocol should you use?
If you’re ever unsure of which protocol to use, it’s best to default to WireGuard.
If you’re ever unsure of which protocol to use, it’s best to default to WireGuard. Sam Singleton
If you’re ever unsure of which protocol to use, it’s best to default to WireGuard. Sam Singleton
Sam Singleton
The best VPN protocol for you will come down to preference and what you’re trying to do. The context in which you’ll use a VPN is going to ultimately dictate which protocol will be most effective. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
If you’re feeling the need for speed, then WireGuard should be your go-to protocol. It is currently the speediest protocol on the market and offers quicker connection times than its counterparts. This means that if you’re streaming, downloading large files, or gaming, stick with WireGuard to ensure you’re getting the best performance from your connection.
For activities such as online shopping, banking, and other things that benefit from strong security then opt for either OpenVPN or WireGuard. Both of these protocols offer robust encryption and security features. OpenVPN utilizes AES-256 bit encryption, which is deemed so secure it’s currently used by the military. Alternatively, WireGuard uses the comparable XChaCha20 encryption protocol, which is increasingly favored by cybersecurity experts.
If you want stability on your mobile network, such as when you’re connected to a VPN on the go, it’s probably best to use IKEv2/IPsec. This is down to the fact that it can seamlessly switch between Wi-Fi and cellular networks without disconnecting from the VPN — disconnections like this can be a security risk as they leave your private data exposed.
In the end, each VPN protocol is unique and should be utilized according to your own specific needs and situation. If you’re at a loss for which to choose or uncertain based on your current activity, then you really can’t go wrong with WireGuard. Its lightweight design makes it extremely fast and strong encryption provides excellent security. When in doubt, I usually default to WireGuard. Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | PC World - 13 Aug (PC World)The smart home trend hasn’t let up as all kinds of internet-connected devices continue to make home life more efficient and convenient. But what happens when these smart gadgets are hacked?
In a presentation at the Defcon hacking conference, security researchers showed that it’s possible for malicious actors to exploit the smart vacuums and mowers by Ecovacs to secretly hack their microphones and cameras for spying, as TechCrunch reports.
Related: Level up your office with these work-from-home gadgets
Ecovacs smart robots are frighteningly easy to hack
After analyzing several Ecovacs products, security researchers Dennis Giese and Braelynn found a number of problems that could be abused to remotely hack the robots via Bluetooth and secretly switch on their microphones and cameras.
According to the researchers, the main vulnerability is that the Ecovacs robots allow any smartphone owner to connect. Hackers could theoretically take control of the robots from a distance of up to 425 feet (130 meters) — and once that’s done, the hackers could potentially connect to the robots from even greater distances, as the robots are also connected to the internet via Wi-Fi.
“Their security was really, really, really, really bad,” Giese said in an interview with TechCrunch before the talk. According to the security researchers, it’s also possible to read Wi-Fi login data and stored room maps as well as access microphones and cameras with little effort, all done directly via the robot’s Linux operating system.
Related: Smart tricks to keep your home network secure
Robot mowers are more vulnerable than robot vacuums
The security researchers clarified that the robotic lawn mowers are more vulnerable because their Bluetooth connections are always on, whereas the robotic vacuums are only Bluetooth-active when first switching on and when automatically restarting once per day for 20 minutes.
These smart devices have no hardware light or indicator to show that their cameras and/or microphones are on, which makes it hard to know if they’re spying.
Some models technically play an audio file every five minutes to indicate an active camera, but this can easily be disabled by hackers who know what they’re doing. “You can basically just delete the file or overwrite it with an empty file. The warnings are therefore no longer played if you access the camera remotely,” said Giese.
More security issues with Ecovacs robots
In addition to the above risks, the security researchers also identified other vulnerabilities.
For example, data stored on Ecovacs’ cloud servers is retained even after a user deletes their account — and that includes the authentication token, meaning someone could sell their robot vacuum after deleting their account and possibly spy on the next owner.
Another example is the anti-theft mechanism, which forces the user to enter a PIN whenever the robot is lifted. This feature has been programmed half-heartedly at best, as the PIN is stored in the device in plain text, making it extremely easy for hackers to read.
Incidentally, once an Ecovacs robot is compromised, other Ecovacs robots can be subsequently hacked if they’re within range.
The following devices were analyzed by the security researchers:
Ecovacs Deebot 900 series
Ecovacs Deebot N8/T8
Ecovacs Deebot N9/T9
Ecovacs Deebot N10/T10
Ecovacs Deebot X1
Ecovacs Deebot T20
Ecovacs Deebot X2
Ecovacs Goat G1
Ecovacs Spybot Airbot Z1
Ecovacs Airbot AVA
Ecovacs Airbot ANDY
The researchers said they contacted Ecovacs to report the vulnerabilities but never received a response. The company also didn’t respond to an enquiry sent to them by TechCrunch.
Further reading: Burglars are jamming Wi-Fi security cameras Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | PC World - 10 Aug (PC World)Yesterday ushered in the start of this year’s QuakeCon, the Dallas gaming convention organized by developer id Software. New editions of the legendary shooters Doom and Doom II were presented there, complete with technical improvements and expanded content.
Both games are now available together on all the major digital storefronts — including Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store — for just $10. But if you already own one of the two games? You can upgrade to the new version free of charge.
Related: Classic PC games you should play again
What’s new in the enhanced games?
Both Doom and Doom II have been given prettier looks and boosted performance, able to reach 120 FPS at 4K resolution now.
The games now also support cross-play multiplayer, meaning you can play online on any platform and compete against players regardless of their platform (i.e., PC, Xbox, PlayStation).
The games also include several new deathmatch maps as well as an extended co-op mode for up to 16 players. Thanks to mod support, you can also create new content yourself.
Lastly, you’ll find never-before-seen chapters in the Doom story along with a special episode called Sigil, developed by John Romero himself, that fits into the timeline between Doom and Doom II.
Related: Ducky’s Doom keyboard is limited to 666 pieces
Play the new Doom and Doom II now
This freshly updated Doom + Doom II bundle is available immediately while previous versions will disappear.
If you already own either game, you can either keep them as they are or upgrade to their newer versions for free. Of course, all the new content and improvements are only available by upgrading. See publisher Bethesda’s official release notes for more info.
These upgraded Doom games were released on August 8, 2024 for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch, more than 30 years after Doom‘s first release in 1993. Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | PC World - 31 Jul (PC World)Did you know Google Maps has a feature called Travel Time that lets you to see approximately how far you can travel in a given time limit?
As of now, this feature works with Walking and Driving navigation, but not Cycling or Public Transportation. It’s also only available in the web version of Google Maps, not the Android or iOS apps.
Here’s how you can turn on Travel Time in Google Maps and what makes it such a useful feature to start using.
How to enable Travel Time
Navigate to maps.google.com in your web browser (you don’t need to be logged in with your Google account), then hover over the bottom-left icon labeled Layers to open a menu.
In the hover menu, click More, then look under the Map Tools section and click on Travel Time to enable the feature:
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Once you enable Travel Time, you’ll see a new panel appear at the bottom-center of Google Maps, and this panel will have grayed-out options for selecting a time limit and method of travel:
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Now click anywhere on the map to set a starting location. Once a starting location is set, you’ll be able to select a time limit and method of travel, which will then reveal how far you can go in that time.
How to use the Travel Time feature
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
With Travel Time, you can choose the following time limits when Walking is the method of travel:
15 minutes
30 minutes
And these time limits with Driving selected:
15 minutes
30 minutes
1 hour
2 hours
3 hours
4 hours
6 hours
You’ll see a shaded region on the map that shows everywhere you could travel within the time limit via the method of travel. The shaded region won’t necessarily be a circle because different paths may allow for greater travel in certain directions (or be blocked off entirely).
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Depending on the time limit selected, you may have to zoom out of the map to be able to view the entire shaded region:
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
Joel Lee / IDG
There are two drawbacks to Travel Time as of this writing:
The estimate doesn’t take into account traffic conditions and only represents a general idea of where you could go. It may be inaccurate during rush hour or if there’s an accident somewhere.
Not every location currently has Travel Time data, and some locations may only have Driving data but not Walking data.
Despite these shortcomings, the Travel Time feature is pretty cool to play around with and can be useful for getting a general idea of where you could possibly go given certain parameters. Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | PC World - 29 Jul (PC World)When you install Windows 11, you get a wide variety of programs and apps (in the Windows world, these words get mixed up a lot, and they really mean the same thing).
Many of them are linked to the operating system itself. For example, you use Explorer to manage your files and Microsoft Defender to protect your computer against attacks.
Windows 11 Pro
But there are also plenty of free programs that add new features to your computer, such as the drawing program Paint and video editing software Clipchamp.
We have collected the most important programs to know about here. They are built into your computer and you access them by clicking the Start button > All apps — or via the Search tool. If any of them are missing from your PC, you can install them yourself via Microsoft Store, the built-in tool that lets you download programs to your computer.
Clipchamp: Free video editing at last
Mark Hachman / Foundry
Mark Hachman / Foundry
Mark Hachman / Foundry
Nowadays, Windows 11 includes an excellent video editing tool called Clipchamp. It can do all sorts of basic editing of your films. For example, you can trim them, removing the bad material at the beginning and end of most films. You can also split a clip into several parts so that you can remove the bad ones. You can also move the clips around and make the transitions smoother by, for example, inserting a fade or sweep between two clips.
Other powerful features include the ability to change the speed of a video clip, apply filters, or adjust lighting and colors. Of course, you can also add music, sound, text, and various graphic elements to your film.
All the essential basic features are free, but you can get more if you get a paid subscription.
Download Microsoft Clipchamp in the Windows Store.
Edge: Smarter browsing with AI
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft’s Edge browser keeps getting better. Built on the same technical foundation as market leader Google Chrome, it has no problem displaying some web pages, and you can use most extensions created for Chrome.
Edge has a lot of smart tools, the most interesting of which is its connection to Copilot, Microsoft’s AI service. If you tap on the Copilot icon in the top right, you’ll get a toolbar where you can access the same kinds of features as in the AI service Chat GPT. In other words, you can ask questions and get answers directly. You can also let Copilot write everything from appeal emails and blog posts to birthday speeches and poems.
Download Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Photos: Keep track of all your photos
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
The Photos app does two things: It keeps track of all the photos on your hard drive and on various cloud services, and lets you do advanced searches and fun slideshows.
Second, Photos has an editing feature with all the basic functions. For example, you can crop and rotate your photos, and you can adjust light and colors. If you don’t want to do it manually, you can enhance your photos automatically or use different filters. Recently, Photos also got smart AI tools that let you remove backgrounds or unwanted objects.
Download Microsoft Photos in the Windows Store
Outlook: More than an email client
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft has retired the Email and Calendar tools and replaced them with Outlook.
The most important component here is the email part, which allows you to manage all your email accounts. These include Hotmail, Live, or Outlook addresses — but Outlook can also handle Gmail, Yahoo, and other email services.
Outlook also includes Microsoft’s other productivity tools, i.e. Outlook Calendar, To Do list, and People address book. You can also add shortcuts to other Microsoft services.
Download Outlook in the Windows Store
Paint: Draw and paint like the pros
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft Paint is a program you use to draw and paint. It can also edit your photos in a more advanced way than the Photos app.
Recently, Paint got two new features. The first is an AI feature that lets you remove backgrounds on your photos. The second is called Layers and makes it easier to do more advanced image work.
Download Paint in the Windows Store
Quick Assist: Help your friends
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Quick Assist is a tool for those who usually help friends and family with their computer problems — and for those who usually need help. What it does is let someone take control of a computer remotely.
Using Quick Assist is simple. As a support assistant, click on Help someone and log in to your Microsoft account. You will now receive a code that you give to the person you are helping. They enter the code under the heading Security code from the assistant in the same program. The support assistant can choose between just looking at the computer or checking it completely — and the person to be helped must authorize this.
Download Quick Help in the Windows Store
Phone link: Connect your computer and mobile phone
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
Pairing a Windows computer with an Android mobile phone is now easy. The Phone Link application allows you to send text messages from your computer, and you can also access photos and notifications. If you can’t find the application on your computer, you need to open Settings > Bluetooth and devices > Phone Link and activate it. For Phone Link to work, you’ll also need to install an app on your mobile phone and make a number of settings. Getting started can be tricky, but when you open the Phone Link application on your computer, a clear guide will show you how to do it.
Windows Backup: Automatic backup
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
If you have plenty of space in Microsoft OneDrive, you may benefit from Windows Backup. It copies all files located in the Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Music folders to OneDrive — and even your settings are safe.
When you open Windows Backup for the first time, a wizard starts to help you set up what and how you want to back up and synchronize. Then, when you get a new computer or reinstall Windows, you’ll get a prompt to restore material from the backup.
Notes: Simple word processing with tabs
Microsoft
Microsoft
Microsoft
The built-in Notepad application has received several smart innovations in the latest Windows updates. The most interesting is the tabs that allow you to work with multiple notes at the same time. The layout is the same as in most browsers.
To use the tabs, press the plus icon at the top right. You can also select File > New Tab (or Ctrl+N). This will open a new tab in the program. Close it with the cross on the right or via the File menu.
Another welcome addition is that Notepad now has a spell checker. To control it, you can tap the gear in the top right and make sure Spell Check is enabled. You can also select Auto-correct, which is a function that fixes spelling mistakes itself.
More great free programs
Family. A tool for those with children who want to control their browsing, gaming, and screen time.
Sticky Notes. A digital equivalent of those yellow Post-it notes. Make a note of what you want to remember and stick the note anywhere on the screen.
Game Bar. A tool that allows computer gamers to record and share video and still images. In addition, there are tools for making performance measurements of the games. Game Bar is opened with the keyboard shortcut Windows+G.
Calculator with graphing function. Microsoft’s calculator can handle both basic maths and more advanced calculations.
Camera. Use your computer’s camera to take pictures or film.
Maps. Microsoft’s equivalent of Google Maps.
Getting started. A simple beginner’s guide that shows you how to use Windows 11.
Audio recorder. Use your computer’s microphone to record audio.
Media Player. A stripped-down tool that plays music, audio, video, and other media files.
Teams. Microsoft’s tool for video meetings.
Tips. This app gives you smart ideas from Microsoft’s own engineers.
Todo. A to-do list that you can also access via mobile and browser.
Xbox. Some of the gaming features from Microsoft’s Xbox game console are available in a Windows 11 app of the same name. Read...Newslink ©2025 to PC World |  |
|  | | RadioNZ - 15 Jul (RadioNZ) The pair didn`t have basic survival equipment, maps GPS or a locator beacon while temperatures dropped to -4 degrees . Read...Newslink ©2025 to RadioNZ |  |
|  | | BBCWorld - 15 Jul (BBCWorld)See how close a gunman got to former US president Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Read...Newslink ©2025 to BBCWorld |  |
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