CUDA compatibility with AMD and Intel GPUs isn't a pipe dream anymore
Why it matters: Nvidia introduced CUDA in 2006 as a proprietary API and software layer that eventually became the key to unlocking the immense parallel computing power of GPUs. CUDA plays a major role in fields such as artificial intelligence, scientific computing, and high-performance simulations. But running CUDA code has remained largely locked to Nvidia hardware. Now, an open-source project is working to break that barrier.
Vivaldi is a dream browser for those who want total control. Version 7.5 debuts with several privacy enhancements, it introduces color-coded Tab Stacks for grouped tabs and adds support for DNS over HTTPS (DoH), providing extra security to protect your browsing activity. Check out more in our essential apps feature.
High school student helps strengthen Microsoft's digital defenses
Editor's take: At an age when most teenagers are just beginning to explore the possibilities of technology, one high school junior has already made a name for himself in the world of cybersecurity. Dylan, now 17, first caught the attention of Microsoft's Security Response Center at just 13, when he reported a critical vulnerability in Microsoft Teams. The discovery ultimately reshaped the company's bug bounty program and set Dylan on a unique professional path.
Remote desktop access remains a critical utility, especially for support, collaboration, or accessing files on the go. RustDesk has emerged as a modern, privacy-conscious alternative to options like TeamViewer. It's open-source, fast, and works seamlessly across platforms without the usual bloat. Check out more in our essential apps feature.
TL;DR: If you're looking for a powerful productivity suite without recurring subscription fees, Microsoft Office 2021 is available for just $39, the lowest price so far this year, for a limited time – an incredible deal. This offer provides all the essential tools you need for work or personal projects at over 80% off the regular price.
Nvidia is offering a free Adobe Creative Cloud subscription through the Nvidia App rewards section. Owners of GeForce RTX 30 or 40 series GPUs get one free month, while RTX 50 series users get up to two months. The offer is available via the Nvidia App under the Rewards section.
In brief: Just over one billion active devices use Windows for their operating system, according to Microsoft. That sounds like an impressive statistic, but the company isn't as quick to point out that three years ago, the figure stood at 1.4 billion, meaning 400 million devices are no longer running the OS.
Why it matters: The kernel space is the core component of a computer operating system, where critical hardware management and device driver code reside in memory. If a kernel-level driver malfunctions, the entire OS can behave erratically – or simply crash and burn with a BSOD. Microsoft has stated that it is working on a significant change to the Windows architecture to help prevent another large-scale incident like the one involving CrowdStrike a year ago.
Microsoft Edge 138 introduces a new AI-powered history search that helps users find previously visited sites using synonyms, phrases, or even misspelled words. The update also adds performance notifications. When a slowdown is detected, the browser can alert and suggest optimization tools.
Frame rate improvements were quite drastic for games like Returnal
That's called progress: SteamOS started life as a lightweight Linux-based system built for Valve's Steam Machines that never really picked up steam (pun intended). Now, it powers the Steam Deck and various other handhelds. New benchmarks show that the gaming OS outperforms Windows 11 on similar hardware.
Clipboard managers can become huge productivity boosters if you use them right, by letting you access and reuse copied text, images, and links. Power users should check out ClipClip for Windows and Flycut for macOS. Check out these and more recommendations in our Essential Apps feature.