News

29 December 2025 Windows & Technology

Windows File Explorer Gets Major Performance Update: Lighter and Faster File Searching

Microsoft introduces Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 with reduced memory and processing usage in File Explorer, making it lighter for file and software searches.

Windows File Explorer Update
AI Summary

Microsoft introduces Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 update that reduces memory and processing usage in File Explorer application, making it lighter for file and software searching. The previous File Explorer pre-activation feature didn't show significant differences in application usage. This latest update is offered to Windows Insider program users with the promise of lighter computer resource usage, especially in speeding up the search process through File Explorer.

Performance Improvements

Microsoft has introduced the Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 update, which is reported to reduce memory usage and processing in the File Explorer application, making it lighter when used, especially for file and software searches.

The search through File Explorer no longer overlaps, thus speeding up the search process. This latest update is offered to Windows Insider program users with the promise of lighter computer resource usage.

Previous Attempts and Improvements

Previously, Microsoft introduced the File Explorer pre-activation feature that was expected to speed up application usage, but testing found no significant difference.

The new update addresses these issues by optimizing resource usage and eliminating the overlapping search processes that previously slowed down performance.

Windows Insider Program

This latest update is offered to Windows Insider program users, with the promise of lighter computer resource usage, especially in speeding up the search process through File Explorer.

Typically, features and updates in the Windows Insider program will be implemented into the general version of Windows 11 in the future. If this test is successful, it's expected to be introduced in one of the upcoming updates.

Key Features of the Update
  • Reduced Memory Usage - Lower RAM consumption during File Explorer operations
  • Faster Search Process - Eliminated overlapping search operations
  • Lighter Resource Usage - Optimized CPU and memory utilization
  • Improved Performance - Enhanced overall File Explorer responsiveness
Expected Timeline

If the Windows Insider testing proves successful, this performance enhancement is expected to roll out to all Windows 11 users in one of the upcoming cumulative updates, bringing improved File Explorer performance to millions of users worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Windows 11 Build 26220.7523 is a preview update released through the Windows Insider program that focuses on improving File Explorer performance by reducing memory usage and optimizing search processes.

The update reduces memory and CPU usage by eliminating overlapping search processes and optimizing resource allocation, resulting in faster file searches and overall lighter application performance.

If the Windows Insider testing is successful, the performance improvements are expected to roll out to all Windows 11 users in one of the upcoming cumulative updates, though no specific date has been announced yet.

The previous pre-activation feature was designed to speed up File Explorer but testing showed no significant performance improvements. The new update addresses these shortcomings with more effective optimizations.
Related Topics
Windows 11 Updates

Latest features and improvements in Windows 11

Windows Insider Program

Get early access to Windows features and updates

28 December 2025 Security Alert

Trust Wallet Exposes Serious Backdoor! Over $6 Million USD Assets Stolen, Official Version Becomes Hacker Attack Target

(December 26, 2025) – Cryptocurrency wallet Trust Wallet issued an emergency security warning early today, confirming that version 2.68 has serious security vulnerabilities. Official users using this version should stop using it immediately and upgrade to security version 2.69 through Chrome as soon as possible.

Trust Wallet Security Breach

Cryptocurrency wallet Trust Wallet confirmed serious security vulnerabilities in version 2.68.

Critical Security Alert

According to blockchain security organization PeckShield monitoring, attackers have used this vulnerability to steal crypto assets worth more than 6 million US dollars. Assets worth $4 million have been quickly transferred to multiple central trading platforms.

Asset Transfer Details
ChangeNOW

About $3.3 million transferred

Kucoin

About $447,000 USD converted

FixedFloat

About $340,000 USD transferred

How Did the Official Version Contain Hacker's Backdoor?

As the event unfolded, the security team of Slow Mist conducted an in-depth audit of the code of the new and old versions. By comparing the existing version 2.68.0 with the fixed version 2.69.0, analysts found that the attacker planted a piece of malicious code for the data collection service in the official code.

Malicious Code Analysis

Code analysis showing malicious data collection service planted in official code.

The code uses a data analysis tool called PostHog, which secretly collects sensitive user information, including the wallet's mnemonic phrase.

Attack Timeline
December 8

The attacker began carrying out preparations.

December 22

Backdoored version 2.68 was officially released.

December 25

Attackers used Christmas holidays to start large-scale theft of funds.

Security Expert Analysis

Slow Mist Technology's Chief Information Security Officer 23pds points out that the attacker is very familiar with Trust Wallet's extension, which shows that Trust Wallet's developer equipment or code repository may have been compromised. He strongly advises affected users:

Emergency Security Measures
  • Immediately disconnect from the network
  • In offline mode, export your mnemonic phrase and transfer assets to a brand new, secure wallet
  • After asset transfer is completed, perform wallet extension upgrade operation again

It is worth noting that although the 2.69.0 patch cut off malicious data transmission, it did not completely remove the relevant code base of PostHog.

History Repeats When Official Channels Are No Longer Safe

This Trust Wallet "official poisoning" event once again exposed the vulnerability of the crypto industry in terms of software supply chain security, and also made the market think of similar attacks.

Supply Chain Attacks
  • Ledger Connect Kit (Dec 2023) - Hardware wallet giant's front-end code library had malicious code planted, contaminating many mainstream dApps
  • Hola VPN (2018) - Chrome extension compromised through developer account hack, specifically used to monitor and steal MyEtherWallet user private keys
Code Defects
  • Slope Wallet Mnemonic Leak (Aug 2022) - Solana ecosystem large-scale piracy event, investigation pointed to certain versions sending user mnemonics in plain text to Sentry monitoring server
  • Trust Wallet Previous Incident (CVE-2023-31290) - Browser extension had insufficient entropy in key generation process, allowing attackers to violently crack wallet addresses
Security Warning: When Official Channels Become Attack Vectors

The software downloaded from official channels itself becomes an attack tool, which greatly compresses users' security space. Whether it's Slope's plain text logs or Trust Wallet's malicious backdoor, the lessons of history repeatedly warn us: in an encrypted world, do not blindly trust any single software or hardware terminal.

Essential Security Practices

Every user must establish their own security line, including:

Distribute Assets

Don't put all eggs in the same basket, use multiple wallets to distribute storage assets

Periodic Inspection

Periodically inspect and cancel unnecessary dApp contract authorizations

Stay Alert

Be wary of unusual software updates, prioritize getting information from official trustworthy channels

Current Status

At the time of writing, the official Trust Wallet is still continuing to encourage users to upgrade, and the chain of stolen funds is still continuing. Users are urged to take immediate action to protect their assets.

27 December 2025 Email & Services

Your Gmail Name Can Finally Be Changed! Google Will Soon Support Changing @gmail.com Addresses

Google is about to roll out a major update allowing users to change their @gmail.com email addresses, a boon for users who want to update their online identity without creating a completely new account. This highly anticipated feature will provide users with greater flexibility and control!

Gmail Address Change Feature

This highly anticipated feature will provide users with greater flexibility and control!

Major Gmail Update

Google is rolling out a groundbreaking feature allowing users to change their @gmail.com addresses for the first time. Previously, only non-Gmail addresses could be changed, while @gmail.com addresses were permanent once created.

According to a new Google support document, the company is rolling out this new feature gradually. Previously, Google only allowed users to change non-Gmail email addresses associated with their Google accounts, while @gmail.com addresses could not be changed once created.

How the New Feature Works

This new feature allows users to choose a new @gmail.com address, and the old address will automatically become an alias for the new address. This means that emails sent to the old address will still be delivered to the user's inbox, and the user can continue to use the old address to log in to their Google account.

Key Features
  • Data Retention
  • Dual-address email reception
  • Login convenience
  • Old address retention
Feature Benefits
  • All data remains unaffected
  • Both addresses receive emails
  • Single inbox aggregation
  • Flexible login options
Detailed Feature Breakdown
Data Retention

All of your data, including emails, photos, Drive files, and purchase history, will remain unaffected.

Dual-address Email Reception

Both your old and new @gmail.com addresses can receive emails and aggregate them into a single inbox.

Login Convenience

Users can log in to all Google services using either the new or old address.

Old Address Retention

The original @gmail.com address will be retained as an alias and cannot be registered by other users.

Feature Limitations and Precautions

To prevent abuse, Google has imposed some limitations on this new feature. Users cannot change or delete their @gmail.com address again within 12 months of changing it. Furthermore, each account can only change its @gmail.com address a maximum of three times in its lifetime, meaning an account can have a maximum of four associated Gmail addresses.

Important Considerations

Google reminds users that while most services will transition seamlessly, some third-party services and calendar events created before the address change may still display the old Gmail address. Chromebook users should exercise extra caution when changing their addresses and are advised to back up their local files beforehand.

Rollout Scope and Timing

The rollout of this new feature will be gradual. Initially, the support documentation was only available in Hindi, suggesting the feature might be tested first in India. As of now, Google has not officially announced a global rollout timeline for this feature.

Interested users can check if the option to change their email address has appeared in their Google account settings. This option is usually located in the "Contact Information" section under "Personal Information."

Comparison with Other Email Services

This Gmail update puts it in line with other mainstream email services like Outlook and Proton, which have long allowed users to manage their emails using multiple aliases. This is undoubtedly a long-awaited but welcome improvement for users who might feel embarrassed by an early username or need to update their email address due to a name change or other reasons.

26 December 2025 Hardware & Components

Global Memory Component Prices Continue to Rise Due to AI Demand

The price of global memory components continues to rise due to a shortage of supply and high demand from component builders and AI data centers who are willing to pay multiple prices.

Memory Component Price Rise

This move is seen as interesting because ASUS previously only relied on other semiconductor chip manufacturers.

AI Summary

The price of global memory components is increasing due to a shortage of supply and high demand from component builders and AI data centers. Laptop manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo are predicted to raise device prices next year. ASUS is said to be considering producing its own RAM memory to reduce costs, unlike other manufacturers who still rely on other semiconductor chip manufacturers.

This situation is expected to force laptop manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo to increase the price of their devices next year.

However, latest report claims that ASUS is considering producing its own RAM memory to reduce costs. This move is seen as interesting because ASUS previously only relied on other semiconductor chip manufacturers.

ASUS's Strategic Shift

Unlike Acer and Lenovo, which have their own memory brands but still use chips from Samsung and Micron, ASUS is reportedly looking to develop DDR5 and LPDDR5X memory production.

If true, ASUS will need expertise on par with major manufacturers such as Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron, in addition to large-scale manufacturing facilities. Collaboration with small memory manufacturers is also possible if the main goal is to reduce costs for their devices.

Manufacturing Challenges

For ASUS to successfully produce its own memory, they would need to develop expertise comparable to industry giants like Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, along with establishing large-scale manufacturing facilities. This represents a significant strategic and financial commitment.

Industry Impact

The rising memory costs are being driven by unprecedented demand from AI data centers and component builders who are willing to pay premium prices for limited supply. This creates a challenging environment for laptop manufacturers who must balance cost increases with competitive pricing.

Market Factors
  • Supply shortage
  • High AI demand
  • Premium pricing
  • Component builder competition
Manufacturer Responses
  • Price increases expected
  • ASUS considering own RAM
  • Acer/Lenovo using Samsung/Micron
  • No official ASUS announcement
Quick Facts: Quick Answers From AI

A: Shortage of supply and high demand from component builders and AI data centers.

A: Rising global memory component prices will force them to raise device prices.

A: ASUS is considering producing its own RAM memory.

A: ASUS intends to produce its own DDR5 and LPDDR5X memory, unlike Acer and Lenovo which still rely on chips from Samsung and Micron.

A: If ASUS really produces its own memory, they need expertise on par with major manufacturers such as Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, as well as large-scale manufacturing facilities.
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Related Topics
#Samsung #MemoryChips #ASUS #AIHardware #ComponentPrices
26 December 2025 Social Media & AI

Photos uploaded to X can now be edited, regenerated using AI

Social media platform X is introducing a new feature that allows uploaded photos to be edited and regenerated using artificial intelligence (AI), further integrating AI-powered technology into platform.

X AI Photo Editing Feature

There is currently no option to prevent photos from being edited by others.

AI Summary

Social media platform X is introducing a new feature using artificial intelligence that allows uploaded photos to be edited and regenerated with text commands, further integrating AI technology into platform. Users can now edit photos shared by others by selecting a photo and giving text commands to produce two different results, raising concerns about spread of fake photos.

Social media platform X is introducing a new feature using artificial intelligence that allows uploaded photos to be edited and regenerated with text commands, further integrating AI technology into platform.

Users can now edit photos shared by others by selecting a photo and giving text commands to produce two different results, raising concerns about spread of fake photos. There is currently no option to prevent photos from being edited by others, with feature enabled on website and expected to come to mobile app soon.

How the Feature Works

While previously X only offered text-based image generation, users can now select a photo shared by anyone and make edits using text commands. Each uploaded image will display an edit button, and when clicked, users can give instructions to regenerate the image with two different results.

Privacy and Misinformation Concerns

This move raises concerns because it potentially opens up the possibility of fake images being spread. Currently, there is no option to prevent images from being edited by others, which has significant implications for content authenticity and user privacy.

Feature Availability

This feature has been enabled on the web version of X and is expected to come to the mobile app soon. The integration represents X's continued push to incorporate AI capabilities across its platform.

Feature Capabilities
  • Edit any uploaded photo
  • Text command interface
  • Generate two variations
  • AI-powered regeneration
Current Limitations
  • No opt-out option
  • Web version only
  • Potential for misuse
  • Privacy concerns
Quick Facts: Quick Answers From AI

A: Social media platform X is introducing a new feature that allows uploaded images to be edited and regenerated using artificial intelligence (AI).

A: Users can select images shared by anyone and make edits using text commands.

A: The concern is because the feature potentially opens up the possibility of fake images being spread.

A: Currently, there is no option to prevent photos from being edited by others.

A: This feature has been enabled on web and is expected to come to mobile app soon.
Click here for FAQs related to this article
22 December 2025 Artificial Intelligence

Meta Develops New AI Model 'Avocado', to Replace Llama

MENLO PARK — Meta is reportedly developing a new generative artificial intelligence (AI) model codenamed Avocado, which will replace the existing Llama model.

Meta Avocado AI Model

Avocado will be dedicated to Meta use only and will not be offered in open source form like Llama.

AI Summary

Meta is developing a new generative artificial intelligence (AI) model named Avocado to replace the existing Llama model. Avocado will be dedicated to Meta use only and will not be offered in open source form like Llama.

This model is said to be dedicated to Meta use and will no longer be offered in open source form like Llama before. A new model for image and video generation is also being developed by Meta and is expected to be introduced in mid-2026.

Key Differences from Llama

Unlike its predecessor Llama, which was open source and available to developers and researchers worldwide, Avocado will be exclusively for Meta's internal use. This strategic shift represents a significant change in Meta's AI development approach.

Avocado Model
  • Dedicated to Meta use only
  • Not open source
  • Will replace Llama
  • Enhanced capabilities
Future Plans
  • Image/video model in 2026
  • Compete with Google & OpenAI
  • Focus entirely on AI
  • Improve Meta AI performance
Image and Video Generation Model

In addition to the text model, Meta is also developing a new model for image and video generation, which is expected to be introduced in the first half of 2026. This model is expected to offer capabilities comparable to those offered by Google and OpenAI.

Meta AI Challenges

The previously introduced Meta AI is still seen to have failed to attract much attention and has not provided satisfactory responses to various questions. The industry is now waiting to see how the development of this new model will lead to improvements to Meta AI.

2026: AI Focus Year

With this development, 2026 is expected to be a period when Meta focuses entirely on AI technology. The company aims to strengthen its position in the competitive AI landscape against major players like Google and OpenAI.

Quick Facts: Quick Answers From AI

Avocado is designed specifically for Meta use only compared to Llama which was previously offered in open source form.

Meta is expected to be able to offer capabilities comparable to those offered by Google and OpenAI through this new model.

2026 is believed to be Meta's focus on AI technology due to the development of new models that have been announced.
Click here for FAQ related to this article
21 December 2025 Technology

Samsung Introduces Exynos 2600 Chip Based on 2nm Architecture, First for Smartphones

SEOUL — Samsung has officially introduced the latest chip under the Exynos series, the Exynos 2600, which is expected to power the upcoming smartphones in the Galaxy S26 series.

Samsung Exynos 2600 Chip

The Exynos 2600 comes with 2-nanometer GAA (Gate-All-Around) architecture, bringing 10 CPU cores based on Arm v9.3 architecture.

AI Summary

Samsung has introduced the latest Exynos 2600 chip with 2-nanometer GAA architecture, which will be used in the Galaxy S26 series smartphones for higher performance and energy efficiency.

The chip features Arm v9.3-based CPU cores, including the main C1-Ultra core, three performance C1-Pro cores, and six C1-Pro cores, supported by the Xclipse 960 GPU and an updated NPU for better AI performance.

Revolutionary 2nm Architecture

With support for the 2-nanometer architecture, the chip offers higher performance and at the same time is more energy efficient, making Samsung the first manufacturer to come up with a 2nm chip for smartphones, ahead of Qualcomm and MediaTek.

CPU Configuration
  • 1x C1-Ultra @ 3.8GHz (Main)
  • 3x C1-Pro @ 3.25GHz (Performance)
  • 6x C1-Pro @ 2.75GHz (Efficiency)
  • Arm v9.3 architecture
Graphics & AI
  • Xclipse 960 GPU
  • Updated NPU core
  • 113% better AI performance
  • Advanced thermal management
Enhanced Features & Support

Samsung has also improved thermal management to address issues that have been faced by previous Exynos chips. Other support includes up to 320-megapixel cameras, LPDDR5X, UFS 4.1, HDR10+ and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Expected Device

Samsung has not confirmed which devices will use this chip, but it is expected to be present in the Galaxy S26 model which may be marketed in a limited number of countries.

Market Impact

This breakthrough positions Samsung ahead of competitors like Qualcomm and MediaTek in the race to develop advanced mobile processors. The 2nm architecture represents a significant leap in semiconductor technology, promising substantial improvements in both performance and power efficiency for future smartphones.

Click here for FAQs related to this article
18 December 2025 Government

Malaysia to Roll Out MyDigitalID as Single Login for All Government Apps

KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian government is set to further accelerate its digital transformation agenda by introducing MyDigitalID as a unified login system for all major government applications and online public services.

MyDigitalID Unified Login System

MyDigitalID will serve as a single sign-on solution for all government digital services in Malaysia.

One Digital Identity for All Government Services

Citizens and permanent residents will be able to access multiple government platforms using one secure digital identity, eliminating the need to remember different usernames and passwords for each application.

Under this initiative, the government aims to modernize public service delivery and enhance digital trust as part of Malaysia's broader MyDIGITAL strategy. The unified login system is expected to be integrated across a wide range of government applications and systems.

Key Services to be Integrated

Once fully implemented, MyDigitalID will provide access to:

Core Services
  • MySejahtera
  • MyKad Digital Services
  • MyTax & LHDN e-Filing
  • MyJPJ & Road Transport
  • MySPR & Voter Services
Additional Services
  • Healthcare Portals
  • Education Services
  • Social Welfare
  • Housing & Local Gov
  • Religious & Zakat
Enhanced Security & Privacy

The government has emphasized that data privacy and user consent will remain top priorities. The system will use advanced biometric verification and encrypted credentials to ensure secure authentication while complying with Malaysia's data protection laws.

Security Features
  • Biometric authentication (fingerprint/facial recognition)
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Multi-factor authentication
  • User-controlled data sharing
Implementation Timeline

The nationwide rollout will be conducted in phases, starting with high-impact services before expanding to all government applications. Public awareness campaigns and user education programs are also planned to assist citizens in registering and using MyDigitalID effectively.

Digital Inclusion

The unified system aims to support digital inclusion, particularly for rural communities and senior citizens, by simplifying access to essential services like healthcare, taxation, education, and welfare assistance.

Future Vision

With MyDigitalID at the center of its digital ecosystem, Malaysia aims to position itself as a leading digital government in the region, delivering seamless, secure, and citizen-centric public services.

How to Register for MyDigitalID

For step-by-step instructions on registering for MyDigitalID, check out our comprehensive guide:

View Registration Guide
Source

This article is based on official government announcements and statements from relevant authorities.

16 December 2025 Exclusive

Meta Allegedly Earns High Revenue from Fraudulent Ads in China

Advertisements involving fraud, gambling, and banned content are nothing new to social media users.

Meta's Social Media Platforms

Meta's platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are reportedly generating billions from questionable ad practices.

Key Points
  • Meta expected to generate $18B in China advertising revenue for 2024
  • Approximately $3B from fraudulent ads and prohibited content
  • 25% of fraudulent ads originate from China
  • China ad enforcement team reportedly disbanded

While tech companies often claim they are doubling down on their efforts to combat fraudulent ads, a Reuters report revealed that Meta is aware of the high revenue from such ads but is not serious about tackling the issue.

Revenue Breakdown

Internal documents obtained by Reuters show that Meta is projected to generate $18 billion from advertising in China by 2024 across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Shockingly, approximately $3 billion of this amount is estimated to come from fraudulent ads, illegal gambling, pornography, and other prohibited content.

Meta's China Ad Revenue (2024)
  • Total Revenue $18B
  • From Fraudulent/Prohibited Content $3B
  • Percentage from China 25%
Impact & Response
  • China ad enforcement team reportedly disbanded
  • Anti-fraud measures suspended
  • Global fraud crackdown claimed
Regulatory Response

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) recently announced plans to summon Meta representatives for clarification following reports that 10% of the company's advertising revenue comes from fraudulent sources. This move comes after numerous complaints about fake ads featuring local celebrities like Khairul Aming and MrBeast.

Meta's Official Statement

In response to the allegations, Meta denied claims that CEO Mark Zuckerberg ordered the dissolution of the China ad enforcement team. The company stated that it is "redoubling efforts to combat fraud globally" and emphasized that these efforts are not limited to China.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meta is expected to generate around $3 billion from fraudulent ads, illegal gambling, and prohibited content in 2024, out of a total of $18 billion from China.

Meta's internal investigation found that around 25% of fraudulent ads and prohibited products originate in China.

Despite having a dedicated team, Meta reportedly suspended its China ad enforcement team and lifted restrictions on new ad agencies from China. The company claims to be focusing on global fraud prevention measures.
Source

This article is based on a Reuters investigation and official statements from Meta and regulatory bodies. For more information, please refer to the original report.