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    How to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and how it helps your system run better)

    Kerry Wan/ZDNETIf your computer desktop looks a little chaotic and you’re noticing some performance slowdown, it might be time to do a cleanup. The best way to keep things running smoothly is to ensure you’re running the most updated version of Windows (you’d be surprised how many folks’ devices are several updates behind). But if you’re up-to-date, there are other things you can do to optimize.Also: This 2-in-1 Windows tablet I found is designed for creatives and lasts all dayWindows has a few helpful utilities that can free up some space (and they’re already on your PC). These utilities aren’t intended for large-scale repairs but can help make things run faster by cutting excess weight.Regular computer usage results in stored cache files that can become corrupted and outdated, leading to operational quirks and slower boot times. Clearing this cache and other temporary files can improve performance and keep things running optimally. Here’s how.  More

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    Google releases responsible AI report while removing its anti-weapons pledge

    400tmax/Getty Images The most notable part of Google’s latest responsible AI report could be what it doesn’t mention. (Spoiler: No word on weapons and surveillance.) On Tuesday, Google released its sixth annual Responsible AI Progress Report, which details “methods for governing, mapping, measuring, and managing AI risks,” in addition to “updates on how we’re operationalizing […] More

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    Don’t want to pay for ChatGPT Deep Research? Try this free open-source alternative

    Eoneren/Getty Images Since DeepSeek challenged OpenAI two weeks ago, the open- vs. closed-source AI competition has shown no signs of stopping. Also: Why Mark Zuckerberg wants to redefine open source so badly Just two days after OpenAI announced Deep Research, a new AI agent within ChatGPT that can sift through online sources for you, its open-source counterpart has already emerged. Hugging […] More

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    Dumping open source for proprietary rarely pays off: Better to stick a fork in it

    Adrienne Bresnahan/Getty Images LONDON — Over the past decade, companies such as Redis, Elastic, MongoDB, and HashiCorp have abandoned their open-source license roots and switched to proprietary models. The companies cite competition from cloud providers and investor pressure, but the decision is all about making more money. However, there’s a fly in this soup: The strategy […] More

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    Sonos’ next big product wants to take over your TV – and it might just be worth it

    ZDNETIt’s been a rough few month for Sonos, but the company is hoping to bounce back with its newest product. For the first time ever, Sonos is getting into video.A fairly standard streaming boxOver the next several months, Sonos is set to release a streaming media box. The company itself hasn’t revealed much, but a report from The Verge dropped some details.Like similar products, Sonos’ new device (codenamed Pinewood) will combine content from streaming platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and Prime Video and include a universal search function, voice control, and a physical remote with shortcuts.Also: Sonos’ latest audio products transformed the way I watch movies at home – here’s howSo far, it’s a fairly standard streaming box. Here’s where it starts to get a little different, though.HDMI switch of sortsSonos’ box will also be an HDMI switch of sorts, as it has multiple HDMI inputs with passthrough so you can connect multiple devices to your TV. It will wirelessly transmit audio to Sonos soundbars, potentially letting you upgrade your home theater sound beyond the TV’s original capabilities.You’ll even be able to make your own dedicated left and right audio channels for a makeshift surround sound system with other Sonos speakers instead of relying on a soundbar (but it’s not clear exactly which speakers will be compatible).As far as the interface, The Verge called it “beautiful,” according to a source. There wasn’t a mention of whether or not it contained ads, but it was reportedly developed by an advertising firm.   More

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    I tested an E Ink tablet that runs on Android – and can’t go back to a Kindle

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Onyx Boox Page has a seven-inch E Ink display and sells for $219 across major retailers. It runs on a simplified version of Android 11, so you can download any app you want, including Kindle, TikTok, Google Docs, and more. Don’t expect the tablet to receive the latest Android updates. […] More

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    The best Wyze Cam alternative I’ve tested is only $20 with this deal

    <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Blink Mini 2 is available for $40 on its own or bundled with a weather-resistant power adapter for $50 With a stronger construction, improved video quality, a new spotlight, person detection, and weather resistance for outdoor use, the Blink Mini 2 is a definite upgrade from the first generation As […] More