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Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 3

 Contents
5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

6 News ChatGPT browser has arrived, but

Amazon’s
only on Macs
tangled web
10 Question of the Fortnight How did
p10
Amazon’s bug cause the internet to collapse?

11 Protect Your Tech

Sharp rise in Winter Fuel Payment scams

12 Letters I forced my laptop to run

Windows 11 and it’s faster than ever

14 Consumeractive Why has McAfee

charged me for a second antivirus?

16 Grow Your Family Tree

Search Battle of Jutland crew lists

18 Best Free Software

Wintoys [Link] GMKtec NucBox
M6 Ultra
21 Named & Shamed Google advertises its
earbuds on its homepage
p22

Reviews
22 GMKtec NucBox M6 Ultra
Impressive mini PC is all you need

23 Medion Erazer Bandit P20

Desktop PC is game for anything

24 Raspberry Pi 500+
PC in a keyboard is hard-pressed

25 Fairphone 6
Repairable phone gets into a fix Medion
Erazer
26 Nothing Ear (3) Bandit
pxx P20
Pricey earbuds take the mic
p23
28 Keychron B36
Budget keyboard makes the switch
Edifier ES20
Mini speaker of some note

29 LaCie Rugged SSD4

Robust SSD makes for a harder drive

30 Buy It/Competition
Win Shokz OpenDots ONE headphones

4 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 GET 3
Subscribe now! ISSUES
See page 58 for our special subs offer FOR
£5

Workshops & Tips Public image limited

35 
How to… Upload your photos to p35
share publicly

38 
Use webmail to record
your notes and reminders

40 R
 eaders’ Tips
Change skip times in podcasts

42 Browser Tips
Turn any website into a web app

43 AI Tips Transform videos using the

new Restyle tool

44 Phone and Tablet Tips Simplify web

pages with Vivaldi’s Reader View

46 Make Windows Better

Annotate screenshots before saving
BIN YOUR CO
FEATVER

SIM CARD
UR
47 Make Office Better P50 E
Redact words in PDFs

48 In the Club
Schedule group calls in WhatsApp Why you must switch to an eSIM
– CHEAPER, EASIER, SMARTER!
49 What’s All the Fuss About?  Slash roaming bills
Gold in your PC  Scam-proof your phone
50 COVER FEATURE  Use different numbers
Bin your SIM card  Switch networks instantly
We explain why eSIMs are the easier, How to find the best deals
cheaper and smarter choice for your phone

60 Stop Meta spying on you

Stop Meta
Thwart new efforts by Facebook, Instagram
and WhatsApp to grab your personal data

spying
62 Play games on your TV
Why you don’t need a costly console to play
games on your home’s big screen

64 Problems Solved Can I connect my retro

computer to my modern TV? on you
71 Reader Support
Why can’t I download Linux?

72 Jargon Buster p60

74 Easy When You Know How Protect your Meta data

Robert Irvine browses the web using AI

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 5

 News The top stories in the world of technology

ChatGPT’s browser has

arrived, but only on Macs
O
penAI has launched 1 2
a ChatGPT browser
in a direct challenge
to Google Chrome, but it’s
currently available only on
Apple Macs.
Called Atlas, it doesn’t show
an address bar by default.
Instead, you type your request
into a bar in the middle of the
screen and wait for ChatGPT
to answer.
In effect, this means Atlas
uses ChatGPT as the default you need to click the arrow button at the top right 2 coming to Android, iOS
search engine. But instead of icon to launch the site (see opens a sidebar where you and Windows “soon”.
seeing links as in traditional screenshot 1 ). You can also can ask follow-up questions. Its launch comes a few
search results, it shows the say the name of the site you It has familiar features like weeks after fellow AI giant
information you need. want to launch. tabs, bookmarks, password Perplexity made its Comet
Type a URL into the bar and Clicking the ‘Ask ChatGPT’ autofill and an incognito browser free (see page 74).
mode. Both firms are hoping that
WHAT WE THINK It’s free to search with building AI tools directly into
Atlas, but automated tasks a browser will attract users
OpenAI will have to do better people will ever pay to browse like filling in forms and away from Google Chrome
than this if it wants to dethrone the web – a lesson Perplexity summarising content and Microsoft Edge.
Chrome. Ignoring Windows at has already learned. We’ll requires a paid subscription Watch Atlas in action at
launch is bad enough, but it’s test Atlas thoroughly when it (from £20 a month). [Link]/56790
barmy to restrict so many AI arrives on Windows, but first OpenAI didn’t say why Atlas and download it for macOS
tools to subscribers. Very few impressions are underwhelming. was launched on macOS first, from [Link]
but did confirm it would be atlas.

File Explorer blocks previews of web downloads

F ile Explorer in Windows 11
no longer shows previews
of files you download from
preview a file by clicking the
Preview button or pressing
the keyboard shortcut Alt+P.
‘if you trust the file and
the source you received
it from’.
the web. But now, if you try to You can also override
Microsoft made the change preview a file you’ll see a the block to preview a
via October’s Patch Tuesday message saying ‘the file you file by right-clicking it
security updates, released on are attempting to preview then selecting Properties.
14 October, saying it prevents could harm your computer’. Next, click the General
your computer leaking The change doesn’t affect tab, then tick Unblock (see
passwords if you preview Windows 10. screenshot) and click OK.
files that contain HTML tags You can still click to open
([Link]/56793). a file, but the warning states
Previously, you could you should only do this

You’ll like this… but not this…

NordVPN is making a VPN for Amazon’s Russian hackers claim they’ve stolen RAF
new Fire TV Stick ([Link]/56797) files ([Link]/56796)

6 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

Thousands switch to Linux distro IN BRIEF

as Windows 10 support ends APPLE LAUNCHES

‘FASTEST EVER’ IPAD
Apple has

A Linux distro that’s been

designed to look and
feel like Windows says it’s
launched a new
version of its iPad
Pro (pictured) that
had record growth since it claims is the
Microsoft ended support for fastest ever iPad,
Windows 10. and the first to
Zorin Group, which runs be powered by its advanced
Zorin OS, said version 18 of M5 processor. Prices are
the operating system had been the same as 2024’s model:
downloaded over 100,000 from £999 for 11in and from
times since launching on £1,299 for 13in ([Link].
14 October – the same day com/56760). We’ll review it
Microsoft axed Windows 10. in our next issue.
It said on X that this was its
“biggest launch ever” (www. META AXES MESSENGER
[Link]/56769) and that Zorin’s default layout has a more familiar. WINDOWS APP
72 per cent of downloads clean, polished Windows- Version 18 (see screenshot) Meta will remove the
came from Windows users. esque look, including a ‘Z’ redesigns the desktop with Facebook Messenger app
It’s a sign that increasing icon as a Start button a more rounded appearance, for Mac and Windows on 14
numbers of Windows 10 (pictured above). while backgrounds and December. You’ll still be able
users are switching to Linux You can use the Zorin sidebars “have an increased to send messages through
rather than upgrading to Appearance app to customise tint, making it more the Facebook app itself
Windows 11. the desktop so it feels even comfortable on the eyes”. ([Link]/56764)
Zorin has also added or online ([Link].
OneDrive support, letting com). Meta recommends
FIREFOX TO KEEP
you access online files directly users back up their chats
SUPPORTING WINDOWS 10
from its file manager – just before the app is removed
Mozilla has said Firefox will keep supporting as you can in Windows. For – for instructions see www.
Windows 10 for the “foreseeable future”. This means you’ll details visit [Link]. [Link]/56763.
continue to receive all Firefox updates, including new features com/56775.
and bug fixes, not just security patches. Read more on Mozilla’s Have you switched from TOMORROW’S
blog: [Link]/56770. Windows to Linux? Let us WORLD
know: letters@[Link]
We don’t expect much from
robots – just water the plants,
No more Android Auto updates on old do the laundry, wash the
dishes and don’t kill us while
phones and tablets we sleep. This one, from
US firm Figure AI, does the

G oogle will soon stop

supporting Android Auto
on old phones and tablets
move to allow
Android 8 users
to receive updates
first three. So as long as it
avoids the fourth it could be
a hit. Though we can’t see it
running Android 8.0, for longer. working as well in reality as
following a recent update. The company says in this video: [Link].
It released version 15.5 of that only around one com/56756.
the in-car operating system in per cent of Android users run in September, has been
October, though for now it’s a version 8.0 on their phones slammed by many users for
beta designed for early testers. and tablets, while three per breaking the Quick Controls
It means that devices cent run Android 8.1. feature.
running Android 8.0, which Any device bought since This lets you control music
came out in 2017, will be 2019 is likely to be running and view directions even when
stuck on version 15.2. Android 9.0 or later. To find you’re using another app.
Google warned users out what your device runs, Several users have complained
about this change last year open the Settings app then on Google’s forums (www.
by updating the ‘What you look in the About section. [Link]/56776), prompting
need’ section at [Link]. The last full update for the ‘Android Auto Team’ to
com/56777, but delayed the Android Auto, to version 15.2 investigate.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 7

 News
IN BRIEF Three accused of child abuse
VIRGIN SENDS HUB 5
TO CUSTOMERS
after BT engineer crossed wires
Virgin Media has begun
sending its Hub 5
router (pictured)
P olice wrongly accused
three people of child
abuse after a BT engineer
to customers still accidentally crossed internet
using the Hub 3 wires in a street cabinet, it has
or 4. Released in been revealed.
2021, it supports Cops investigating the
Wi-Fi 6 and downloading and sharing of
has a 2.5Gbps indecent images of children
Ethernet port. It traced the location of an
will be sent for free, and IP address with BT’s help
customers will be notified in under the Regulation of
advance. The rollout won’t Investigatory Powers Act
be complete until 2026. 2000 (RIPA).
Read more at [Link]. Dyfed-Powys Police then
com/56734. issued two search warrants for
an address, in August 2016 None of the individuals for child-abuse offences.
HACKERS STEAL LNER and January 2017, and seized were charged, and were The tribunal ultimately
EMAIL ADDRESSES electronic devices. released from further ruled in favour of Dyfed-
Train operator LNER has Officers dropped the case investigation. Powys Police, saying the
emailed customers whose when they couldn’t find any The details have come out in requests to search their homes
names and email addresses wrongdoing, but kept seeing a report by the Investigatory under RIPA were lawful.
were stolen in a data breach evidence from BT that images Powers Tribunal (IPT), raised However, it noted that
in September. It said no of child abuse were being by the falsely accused trio, having their properties
payment details, account downloaded from the address. who said their rights to a searched was “distressing
information or passwords BT then reinvestigated private family life had been for each of the claimants and
were leaked. Customers the case and found that infringed. led to serious consequences
with questions should email approximately eight years It found that BT discovered which impacted upon their
datainfo@[Link], where previously an engineer had the real culprit was living family and work lives”.
they’ll be read by LNER’s inadvertently crossed wires “very close” to one of those These included a child being
Data Protection Officer leading to the home with wrongly accused, and was then removed from her mother and
(‘John’). Read more at another address. “identified and prosecuted” job offers being withdrawn.
[Link]/56731.

THE WORLD’S
GONE MAD!
YouTube adds transparent icons and
reply threads to videos 2
David and
1
Tammy
Carvey
(pictured)
G oogle has redesigned its
YouTube video player
with semi-transparent icons
from and buttons (see screenshot 1 )
Michigan to make watching videos
won $100,000 on the “more visually satisfying
Powerball lottery after while obscuring less content”.
‘using’ ChatGPT to pick the It said this makes
numbers. Several excited YouTube “cleaner and more
Credit Michigan Lottery Connect

websites presented it as a immersive”, and appears on

way to beat the system, as the mobile, web and TV by double-tapping. This will screenshot 2 ). This makes
though no luck was involved. versions. now be “less intrusive” while it easier to see an entire
Still, we could do with the Google also says it has you’re watching a video. conversation and is common
money, so ChatGPT suggested improved the ‘Seek’ feature, In addition, it now has a on online forums such as
these for the National which skips forward and back “structured system” for Reddit.
Lottery: 3, 12, 19, 25, 36, 44. in videos on phones, tablets showing replies as threads Read more on Google’s blog:
and touchscreen computers under a comment (see [Link]/56733.

8 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

Retro channel Talking Pictures IN BRIEF
coming to Freely in 2026 TURN KOBO E-READERS
BY REMOTE CONTROL

N ostalgia TV channel
Talking Pictures will
come to Freely in 2026 – one
Kobo has released a
remote control for
its ebook readers
of 10 new channels being that lets you turn
added to the TV service. the pages of
Launched in 2015, Talking ebooks without
Pictures shows classic British touching the
films and TV series from the screen. The
1930s to the 1980s. It regularly Kobo Remote
attracts about four million is available in
viewers a month - for its black or white
schedule visit [Link]. (pictured) and
com/56667. costs £24.99 from
Until it arrives on Freely you include business and financial ([Link] covering [Link]/56655.
can watch Talking Pictures on news from Bloomberg TV+ London, Birmingham, Bristol, It requires one AAA battery
Freesat (channel 306), Freeview and five channels from US Cardiff, Leeds, Liverpool, that Kobo says provides
(82), Sky (328), Virgin Media AMC, including True Crime London North Wales, Teesside “months of uninterrupted
(445) and YouView (82). UK and AMC Reality. and Tyne & Wear. reading”.
The other nine channels There’s also Local TV Everyone TV, which runs
Freely, said more channels from OPENREACH AXES
Channel 5 and ITV will follow. COPPER IN 94 AREAS
FREESAT BOXES LOSE PRIME Openreach has named the
In October, Channel 4
VIDEO SEARCH RESULTS
became the first UK broadcaster next 94 areas where BT will
Freesat 4K boxes no longer boxes, also to launch streaming-only stop selling copper-based
show search results from lets you access Channel 4’s channels – 4Homes, 4Life and phone and broadband,
Amazon Prime Video after an on-demand content by 4Reality – exclusively on including exchanges in
update released on 13 October. scrolling backwards in the TV Freely. None of these will Barnsley, Colwyn Bay, Great
You can still watch shows Guide. For details visit www. appear on Freeview or Freesat. Yarmouth and Walsall (see
through the Prime Video app. [Link]/56669. Freesat’s To see Freely’s TV schedule them all at [Link].
The update, which doesn’t 4K boxes cost £230 from visit [Link]/56668. com/56653). It’s the 22nd
affect older Humax Freesat [Link]/56671. • Why I don’t want to watch
Freely – Letters, page 12
‘tranche’ of exchanges, taking
the total to 1,732.

WAYBACK MACHINE HITS

Google lets you hide sponsored results ONE TRILLION PAGES

– but you need to see them first

The Internet Archive has
now saved one trillion
webpages in its Wayback

G oogle will soon let you

hide adverts in its search
results, but only after you’ve
Google said this button
lets you “collapse text ads
with a single click” if you
Machine, which captures and
preserves old versions of
websites. It hit the milestone
seen them. want to see only “organic” in October, almost 30 years
Currently, Google labels (unpaid) results ([Link]. after it started. It has also
each paid result as com/56665). saved 100,000TB of files
‘Sponsored’. But it will soon It added: “In our testing, we during that time. Read more
show a section at the top of found that the new design at [Link]/56654
results, with a single, larger helps people navigate the top and search the Wayback
label that stays in view as of the page more easily. The Machine at [Link]
you scroll. new design keeps the size of [Link].
You can click a button at ads the same and you’ll still
the bottom of the section to never see more than four
‘hide’ the sponsored results text ads in a grouping.” new design is rolling out
(see screenshot right), but Google introduced ads in worldwide on PCs and mobile.
you’ll have to scroll through
them first.
search results in 2000, calling
them ‘Sponsored links’. The
• Google’s mixed messages
on adverts – page 21

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 9

 Questionof
Question ofthe
theFortnight
Fortnight
How did Amazon’s bug cause
the internet to collapse?
A massive technical fault brought the web to a standstill

M
onday 20 October was
all set to be another THE FACTS
busy day online, with
trillions of clicks, searches and • Thousands of websites and
transactions. But a problem programs stopped working
was developing in one of for 24 hours after a huge
Amazon’s huge US data technical fault at Amazon
centres in northern Virginia. Web Services
At 3.11am (8.11am in the UK) • It prevented millions of
its DNS started to fail. Within people from performing
minutes much of the internet everyday tasks online, such
worldwide had stopped as pay bills and send emails
working. • The problem lay in the
You might wonder what an DNS used by the database
online retailer like Amazon DynamoDB, which stopped
has to do with running the responding to requests
internet. The answer is from websites and
Amazon Web Services (AWS), software
launched in 2006, which rents
out computing power and
tools so businesses can run Microsoft Teams, Office 365, So what went wrong? 32 per cent of the market,
websites, apps and online Outlook, Reddit, Ring, Roku Amazon posted a 3,700-word with Microsoft Azure second
services without building and Zoom. explanation on 23 October (22 per cent) and Google
their own data centres. Oh, and Amazon itself. ([Link]/56806), Cloud third (10 per cent).
but only IT experts would have Experts have been warning
a chance of understanding it. for years how risky it is for
Millions couldn’t do things they Put simply, a hidden fault in companies to depend on just
the database DynamoDB one company for its online
take for granted: play games, pay meant it couldn’t provide the services. This outage could be
necessary data when websites the wake-up call that prompts
bills, read forums, send emails and programs asked for it. them to spread their websites
That fault lay in its DNS, and software across other
It’s the biggest such service Millions of people were which turns a service’s name providers.
in the world, ahead of rivals unable to perform online (like Lloyds Bank) into an Amazon apologised for the
from Google and Microsoft. tasks they now take for IP address that computers can outage, acknowledging it
And it makes Amazon a lot granted: play games, pay bills, locate and connect to its “impacted many customers in
of money – $30.9bn in the read forums, send emails and website ([Link]. significant ways”. It added:
third quarter of 2025 alone, much more. com). It then cascaded “We will do everything we
which was nearly 20 per cent It even affected ‘smart’ beds through other vital parts of can to learn from this event
of its overall revenue. that use the internet to control AWS, deepening the problem. and use it to improve our
But its importance and temperature and elevation. DNS is automated, without availability even further.”
size means that when things Some people complained their much human involvement. For the average user, it’s a
go wrong, the impact is beds overheated and it was The scale of the outage reminder how much we rely
catastrophic. Listing all the like sleeping in a sauna, while highlighted just how badly not just on the internet for
sites and software that were others got stuck in an inclined things can go wrong when everyday tasks, but on
knocked offline would take position ([Link]. that automation fails. incredibly complex systems
several pages, but main com/56807). Most services It also brought home that make those tasks
casualties included Apple resumed within 24 hours, but just how reliant tech possible. When they stop
Music, Fortnite, GoDaddy, not before the online world companies are on Amazon’s working, so does much of
Halifax, HMRC, Lloyds Bank, raged at Amazon’s failure. infrastructure. AWS has about the modern world.

10 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

Protect your tech
Scams and threats to avoid, plus new security tools
WATCH OUT FOR...

Sharp rise in Winter Fuel Payment scams

What’s the threat? mid-November and
There’s been a sharp increase in scam December 2025. You
text messages urging you to apply for don’t need to apply for
2025-2026 Winter Fuel Payments. Reports them, so ignore any
of these rose by 153 per cent in the final messages requesting
week of September, the Government said, this and report it to the 1
following a decline over the summer. National Cyber Security
The messages typically claim to be from Centre by texting 7726.
the Department for Work and Pensions Visit [Link] to find 2
(DWP), and say it hasn’t received your out if you’re eligible for
application to receive the payments payments: [Link].
( 1 in our screenshot) or that a “prior com/52471. The site
application was unsuccessful” 2 . contains all the contact
It tries to add some urgency by saying info you need.
“late submissions will not be accepted” 3 . Scammers will
The link appears genuine because it begins continue to send 3
‘[Link] 4 – clicking just that messages throughout the
section takes you to [Link]’s homepage. winter, trying various 4
But the rest of the URL is fake and leads tactics such as claiming
to a scam site that steals your details. to be from different Government Government policy, announced in June,
departments. Last year, for example, they that pensioners earning up to £35,000
How can you stay safe? sent texts from the ‘UK Government will receive payments. HMRC says it has
Winter Fuel Payments worth up to £300 Living Allowance Office’. Also beware taken down 4,600 scam sites related to
will be issued automatically between any messages mentioning the change in the payments.

New tools Scam warnings in

Google Messages
ScamWatch
Readers warn readers

Google Messages now warns you if 1 2 ‘Insurer declined

you tap a link in a suspicious text. Licence Fee payment’
It says ‘Link blocked’ (see screenshot Over the years I’ve received a few
1 ) and the only way you can visit it scam emails and texts about my
is by marking it as ‘not spam’. TV Licence payment being refused.
It’s one of several new features But a recent email adopted a slightly
Google has added to boost security. different angle by claiming my
Another clever tool is Key Verifier, ‘insurer’ has declined my Direct
which lets you scan a QR code Debit. What would my insurer have
when a trusted contact gets in to do with it? Perhaps the scammers
touch, to confirm they’re genuine were hoping to trick people by first
and not an impersonator 2 . This confusing them, then hoping to
works on devices running Android reassure them if they clicked the
10 (released 2019) and later. link in the email.
Just as useful are Google’s new It didn’t work on me because I
Recovery Contacts, which let you paid for my licence in one go earlier
select trusted friends or family [Link]). this year, and I know the money has
members to help verify your identity if Visit [Link]/56691 to already gone out.
you’re ever locked out of your account. see all the tools Google has launched. Les Moxon
You can do this by clicking Security on They’re being rolled out to all users Warn your fellow readers about scams
the left in your Google Account (https:// worldwide. at letters@[Link]

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 11

 Letters
Tell us what’s on your mind

Upgrade to Windows 11? his armchair five feet away was too The infrared remote control is only
I’ve never left Windows 7! much effort! compatible with my system, which
It was interesting to read about Roger Coxhill means my setup will come to an end
people migrating “backwards” when Virgin forces us to upgrade. I’m
from Windows 10 to 7 (Issue 721, page 7). Upgrading Virgin TV box now looking at replacing the V6 with a
I never left Windows 7, nor XP before will ruin my setup Manhattan Freeview box, and cancelling
that, or even DOS for In Issue 720, you my subscription channels.
absolute mission- mention Virgin TV Andy Maguire
critical work. pushing us to upgrade the
There could be a V6 box to the TV 360 (page Forget Freely – I’m sticking
backlash against 69). I want to make people with Freeview
Microsoft and its aware of another reason not I agree with James Ross (Star Letter,
insistence on to upgrade. My TV setup Issue 720) that not everyone will
‘upgrades’ being must be similar to what be embracing Freely, either because they
forced on to Windows 10 and 11 users, many readers have. I have a V6 box in one are not online or
much as when some phone updates room and use an RF digital modulator to because they prefer
can leave third-party software unable to convert the signal from the V6 HDMI what they know.
run. I had this problem when my output to an RF Coaxial cable, which I’ll be keeping a
Samsung phone updated and my own – through an RF distribution box – goes tight hold of my
software stopped working. Result? I to several TVs throughout my house. Freeview service
never update my phone now. Android For each TV I have an infrared ‘magic for as long as I can, despite having a fast
shoots itself in the foot. eye’ – a small sensor that receives signals internet connection, because I record
I guess that fewer people actually from the remote and sends them back everything and watch whenever I like.
trust Microsoft but have to suffer these to the V6 box. This lets me control the I can do that with streaming, but I can’t
updates due to a fear of malware that box from any room, so I can pause a fast-forward through adverts, and
seems to abound in greater numbers with programme in one room and resume streaming services delete programmes
each passing day. In addition, Windows it in another. I also have remote controls and series on a whim.
10 and 11 offers me absolutely nothing for additional rooms. We’ve used this Freely prohibits recording on any
extra that I can’t do in XP and 7. However, system for years and it works well. device. For me, this will be a huge step
I can’t guarantee that my utopia won’t be The reason I haven’t upgraded is backwards. It takes me 40 minutes to
ruined by a pesky update. because I wondered why Virgin had to watch an hour-long programme recorded
Dr Alec Butterworth send you a new remote control to work from a commercial channel and my
with TV 360. The original V6 box can use recordings don’t disappear.
My dad rejoiced when both infrared and RF remote controls. But Ethel Trueman
he could skip TV adverts the new V6 software only works with RF.
Bill Fleming is right to point out This means it doesn’t need to ‘see’ the V6 We live near the final approach
that the quality of adverts has been box, but has a limited range. Virgin says it flight path for our local airport.
deteriorating since the 1980s (Letters, works from a distance, but I’m unable to The terrestrial TV signal is broken every
Issue 721), but I still think he’s looking use the remote from another room. time a plane lands – very annoying. We
back with rose-tinted glasses. I remember
my father rejoicing when he got his first
What’s the Issue…?
?
TV with a remote control, some time in
the mid-1970s. His main cause for
celebration was being able to switch I recall reading a very clever When You Know
channel easily from ITV to BBC 1 or 2 How To recently on backing up How’ column – Issue
(only three channels back then!) so he two-factor phone codes. When was it? 714, page 74. Buy a back
didn’t have to watch “those bleedin’ James Reynolds issue from [Link]/56629.
adverts”. I guess before then getting off
CA SAYS In Issue 713, page 35. Buy a When did you explain how to
Computeractive is a member
back issue from [Link]/56628. use Shotcut’s AI to add subtitles
of the IPSO (Independent Press to videos?
Standards Organisation) which
regulates the UK print and digital I can’t find the best mobile Peter Barlow
news industry. We abide by the
Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding reception in my new house. Didn’t
the highest standards of journalism. If you think that you explain how an app can do this? CA SAYS In Issue 698’s Workshop
we have not met those standards and want to make a
complaint, please contact legal@[Link] Richard Greene (page 38). Read it on our 2024 Back
If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would Issue USB Stick: [Link].
like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code,
contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit [Link]
CA SAYS Robert Irvine did in his ‘Easy com/53180.

12 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Email: letters@[Link]
Facebook: [Link]/computeractive
@ComputerActive
[Link]/ComputerActive

were recommended Freesat instead,

which works well, though we lose HD STAR LETTER
signal during storms. But now one of

I forced my laptop to run Windows 11

our Freesat receivers is playing up and I
believe Freesat is on the way out, so
Freely may become our only option.
Also, in Issue 719 (page 53) you and it’s faster than ever
mentioned that Amazon added a ‘Live’ I’ve just and settings. I also
tab to its Fire Sticks. This sounded perfect successfully followed Issue 720’s
to me so I ordered one, but it simply upgraded an old Windows Workshop (page 38) on
displays the associated TV channel apps 10 Acer laptop to 11 using Flyoobe to remove
and a TV guide app which, when despite it not meeting junk that comes bundled
selected, takes some time to populate the Microsoft’s technical with Windows 11.
guide with the programs for the ‘live’ requirements. This came The overall result is a
channels. Once you select a program to as a pleasant surprise. revitalised laptop that
view, it still has to load the player app But what came as an even runs Windows 11 faster
and before loading the selected program. bigger surprise is that the than it ever used to run
To make matters worse, the default ITV laptop is running smoothly. Windows 10. I realise I may have got
channel is ITV1, which is fine if you don’t Every time you’ve given instructions lucky and my laptop might eventually
live in Scotland (or didn’t put a Scottish on bypassing Microsoft’s technical struggle when it attempts to install
postcode in at setup). Selecting a restrictions to upgrade from Windows Windows updates. I probably wouldn’t
programme on ITV1 loads the ITVX 10, you’ve mentioned that it carries have tried the trick if my laptop had
player, which tries to load the selected risks. I’m sure you’re right to do so. been newer. But then, if it was newer,
programme but eventually shows the It’s responsible journalism. But if it almost certainly would have met
message ‘This show isn’t available’ along your laptop is rather old, what have Windows 11’s specifications.
with the comment that ‘You can try you got to lose? So yes, there’s a risk involved, but
finding it on STV’. I had a choice in early October: attempt it’s less of a risk than actually running
This happens even when the same show this bypass trick or spend money I Windows 10 unsupported. And you
is being broadcast simultaneously on ITV1 don’t really have on a new computer. can easily mitigate that risk by
and STV. This is not Amazon’s fault – it’s So I followed the instructions in Issue backing up your system using Hasleo
down to a far from seamless relationship 718’s ‘Windows 10 Survival Guide’ on ([Link]/56040). I did
between ITV and STV, but there may be using Flyoobe ([Link]/56031) that, but fortunately didn’t
implications for other UK regions. to get round Microsoft’s requirements. need to use it.
I’m sharing this so you can understand, I was impressed that it kept your files Larry Peterson
and perhaps share with readers, some of
the problems with live TV over broadband. The Star Letter writer wins a Computeractive mug!
I hope that when the Humax Freely box
is released, it addresses the issues I have
with the Fire Stick alternative. browser extension ([Link]. CA SAYS Christmas may have come
com/56649, pictured below). The early for Tom this year, because in
CA SAYS It’s clear many readers remain download function is complicated and October YouTube redesigned its
unconvinced by Freely. But at least the not worth the bother. Also, the playback video player (see page 8). What do
service now has a decent range of channels, options don’t work on every video. you think of it?
and is adding more all the time – see I live in forlorn hope that YouTube
page 9. will reduce the Premium cost to make Online shopping prevents
it more generally appealing, but first haggling
Dear Santa: tell YouTube they need to massively improve their Although I happily embrace
to improve its player expensive and basic player. These gripes online shopping, I do find it
In response to Graham aside, a renewal will be top of my Santa kills the opportunity to haggle over
Hollingsworth’s tip on reloading wishlist again this year. prices. Purchasing such things as house
Adblock Plus to block YouTube adverts Tom McCleary insurance, mobile-phone packages
(Issue 720, page 40), for Christmas last and furniture with a few clicks of the
year I asked for an upgrade to YouTube mouse takes away the chance to ask the
Premium, which removes ads. I resented vendor, “What’s your best price?” –
having to pay £12.99 myself for it. and then looking unimpressed with
While my ad-free YouTube would now their answer. Chatbots don’t really give
be hard to live without, it’s still poor value. a proper human response, so we’re
It gives access to YouTube Music, but I increasingly being forced to accept the
prefer Spotify. I find YouTube’s playback asking price without questioning it.
tools pathetic compared with those in the Where’s the fun in that?
free and wonderful ‘Enhancer for YouTube’ Alan Thomas

Views expressed don’t necessarily reflect those of Computeractive Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 13
 Consumeractive
We stand up for your legal rights

Why has McAfee LEAD Should Evri

charged me for a CASE compensate me
for damaging
second antivirus? item I sold?
I’ve been her into a subscription I have a problem with Evri
Q using McAfee
antivirus on
(which is illegal), or
Patricia unintentionally
Q damaging an eBay item I sent to
someone. I’ve refunded the buyer
my PC, two laptops and agreed to it. despite it being Evri’s fault, but I haven’t
a smartphone, paying We also need to find received any word or compensation from
£109.90 a year for out how McAfee got Evri despite filling in the compensation
protection across Patricia’s bank details form. Am I due compensation?
unlimited devices. Last and why it chose the Steve Knight
June, I bought another same subscription
laptop, which had a (unlimited) she’s It depends what item Steve sent
trial of McAfee on it.
However, because of
already paying for.
It seems odd that
A via Evri and what it was worth.
Evri includes standard parcel
severe illness I wasn’t McAfee didn’t identify cover of up to £20 on most deliveries
able to set up the laptop for six weeks. Patricia as a customer with an existing ([Link]/56704), which you
When I finally did this, I found that subscription who therefore didn’t need can increase to £999 for an extra fee –
McAfee had started another unlimited another one. Patricia says she has now typically four per cent of the item’s value
subscription on it, and charged me deleted McAfee from all her devices, plus VAT. Some items, such as glassware,
another £109.90. I obviously don’t want even though she was entitled to use the electronics and collectibles, are excluded
or need this, but I can’t contact McAfee existing subscription until January. from compensation if they’re damaged in
about this. Will you be able to help? But that won’t get her money back, transit – see [Link]/56703.
Patricia Goodall so Patricia should tell her bank the Steve did the right thing in refunding
payment was unauthorised and the buyer. If he hadn’t the buyer could
We’ll certainly do our best demand a chargeback. She has 120 days have raised this case through eBay’s
A because it seems that McAfee
began Patricia’s subscription
to make this claim. McAfee took the
money in August, so she has until some
Money Back Guarantee ([Link].
com/56705). We’ve asked Steve for more
automatically after the free 30-day trial time in December. We’ll also contact information on the item he sent. We’ve
ended on her new laptop. If so, we need McAfee and try to work out what’s also told Evri to stop ignoring his request
to find out whether it automatically opted happened. for more information.
CASE ONGOING CASE ONGOING

CASE UPDATE

Currys refunds reader after router came with two-pin plug

Currys has agreed to give Paul nonsense because as the retailer it had full
Ferris a full refund of £79.99 responsibility for dealing with Paul.
for the Acer Predator Connect We’re glad he’s been refunded, but Currys
W6x router he bought online should not be selling the router with a two-
(see Issue 718). The retailer had initially pin plug. Under the Electrical Equipment
rejected his complaint that it hadn’t made it (Safety) Regulations 2016, retailers must
clear the router comes with a continental convert it to a three-pin plug, or include an
two-pin plug, making it incompatible with the adapter for using it in a three-pin socket.
UK’s three-pin system. It wouldn’t be enough for Currys to simply
Paul couldn’t have used a shaving adapter electric toothbrushes. state in the listing ([Link]/56710,
as a solution because they’re designed for Currys had said Paul should contact pictured) that the plug is two-pin. We’ll tell
low-power devices such as shavers and Acer for a replacement or refund. This was Currys this and let you know if it responds.

14 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Contact us so we can investigate your case
Email: consumeractive@[Link]
Please include your name, phone number and address.

Can I keep a router TalkTalk sent in error?

I recently signed up for another make the effort to collect
Q two-year contract with
TalkTalk and was sent a new
the router, rather than ask
him to go to a post office
router. I decided to use it and keep my or contact a courier.
previous one as a spare. I later received That said, Gavin could
a letter from TalkTalk explaining that argue that because he’s
the new router was sent in error and set up the new router he
asked for it to be sent back. Do I have wants to carry on using it. He could then
to return it? offer to return the old model instead,
Gavin Hay saying he shouldn’t be forced to reset
However, Gavin doesn’t have to pay to his options and passwords just because
Yes, legally Gavin should return return it, or inconvenience himself to do of TalkTalk’s error. TalkTalk could
A the router. By law, goods sent in
error still belong to the sender,
so. TalkTalk did supply a return bag and
postage label, so he has no right to keep
refuse his request, but it should at least
consider it and give him a reason for
unless they explicitly tell you otherwise. it. He can however tell TalkTalk it must its decision.
CASE CLOSED

Are rights for eBay A No, buying an item

by auction doesn’t
Back Guarantee scheme (www.
[Link]/56709). This not only
auction wins change Liam’s rights.
They’re the same as when
covers faulty items and those that
don’t arrive, but also goods not
different to normal buying new or second-hand
goods: you’re entitled to all
matching the description.
If the amount is over £100 and
purchases? your money back for goods
not as described. You can also say they
you used a credit card you could
instead lodge a claim with your card
are not fit for the purpose they were said provider under Section 75 of the Consumer
What are my rights if I win an to be. The issue should be resolved by the Credit Act. You can also ask your bank for
Q auction on eBay, but the product
that’s delivered bears no
eBay seller, but it’s unlikely you’ll have
much luck if they are conning you,
a chargeback if you used a debit card.
However, a chargeback is not a legal right.
resemblance to what I bid on? I know I especially if they’re based overseas. If your bank refuses, escalate your claim to
can return items bought outright, but If the seller doesn’t respond or refuses the Financial Ombudsman Service which
does the process of bidding change this? to help after three days, you should would investigate, but it’s not guaranteed
Liam Prendergast escalate the complaint to eBay’s Money you will get a refund.
CASE ONGOING

CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE

I bought Iiyama monitor at 4pm – it arrived next morning

I’ve twice bought More recently, I treated emailed for assistance. They replied within
Iiyama monitors myself to a £500 55in an hour with instructions that were easy to
from Continental ProLite 4K Iiyama monitor follow. Superb company. They’ve never let
Ltd ([Link]- (pictured). I ordered it at me down.
[Link]) and the 4pm and it arrived the next Steven Palmer
service has been excellent on morning – amazingly fast,
both occasions. A few years ago, I ordered and well packaged too. Contact
two items in one purchase, and they emailed After a couple of days’ use I still couldn’t
me to say they’d be arriving in two separate work out how to control the LED bar, so I
Continental
deliveries. This was very helpful. The lady Has a company impressed you with its • Online form [Link]/56716
I spoke to was polite and seemed to know customer service? Please let us know: • Phone 01452 855 222
monitors inside out. editor@[Link]

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 15

 Grow Your
Family Tree
If your ancestors fought in World War 1’s largest naval battle,
follow Richard Holt’s advice to…
Search Battle of Jutland crew lists
T
he Battle of Jutland, fought off the Browse crew lists from
coast of Denmark between 31 May 1 Battle of Jutland Project
and 1 June 1916, was the largest 2 Ancestry’s data is taken from the
naval engagement of World War 1. It Battle of Jutland Crew Lists Project,
began when 151 Royal Navy ships run by volunteers. Search its lists by
encountered 99 from the German fleet. visiting [Link]/56658
Around 100,000 men took part, with then clicking one of the ships listed.
Germany losing 2,551 and Britain 6,097. It colour-codes names to indicate the
More than half of the British losses came probability they took part, from green
from the sinking of HMS Indefatigable, (confirmed) to yellow (unconfirmed
HMS Invincible and HMS Queen Mary.
3
canteen staff) – all explained at www.
Ancestry’s results show that Edward Fassnidge [Link]/56659.
Filter results by dates, died on HMS Chester on 31 May 1916 The website has information not
rank and ship names found in Ancestry, including photos. I
You can search Ancestry’s ‘Battle of Ancestry told me Edward was a Private found one for Edward Fassnidge ( 1 in
Jutland Crew Lists, 1916’ database for in the Royal Marines Light Infantry ( 1 in our screenshot below left), which
free, though you do need to sign up for a our screenshot above). He joined HMS shows green 2 to confirm he served.
free account ([Link]/56656). Chester on 2 May 1916 2 and died during That photo was taken from the
Its 61,495 records include both men the battle on 31 May 3 . It mentions a Imperial War Museum’s ‘Lives of the
confirmed as taking part in the battle, document at The National Archives, which First World War’ website ([Link].
and those who may have been present. led me to his entry in the Register of com/56660, see screenshot below),
Sign into Ancestry then visit www. Service ([Link]/56661) – from which cited a letter sent to Edward’s
[Link]/56657 where you can search where I downloaded it. It showed that mother explaining “he died fighting
by name, filtering by dates, rank, ship HMS Chester was Edward’s first ship. bravely at his gun”.
name and more. Searching for a
ship’s name without any other 1 2
details shows its crew list.
None of my ancestors fought,
so instead I checked whether
anyone from my hometown
(High Wycombe) was present.
This led me to Edward Fassnidge,
born in 1897, who initially joined
the Isle of Wight Rifles, but was …which led him to Imperial War Museum’s
discharged for being underage. Richard found a photo of Edward Fassnidge… ‘Lives of the First World War’ site

Your Genealogy Problems Solved

I’m trying to trace a couple of great-aunts though you’ll need to subscribe. First look in ([Link]/56662). Finally, try the
who were sent to Canada as British the Home Children Inspection Reports ‘HomeChildren Board of Guardian Records’
‘Home Children’ in the 1910s – or possibly ([Link]/56663), which contains ([Link]/56664) for children
1920s. Where should I start? children in Canadian foster homes and the sent to Canada from English workhouses.
Kath Slater agency that sent them. You can use this info Have a genealogy question for Richard?
to search the ‘Canada, Home Children Email letters@[Link] with
There are three records at Findmypast, Immigration Records Index, 1869-1930’ ‘Grow Your Family Tree’ in the subject line.

16 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722 Next issue: Research coroners’ inquests

 Best Free Software
Robert Irvine recommends new programs that won’t cost you a thing
SYSTEM TOOL

Wintoys [Link]
[Link]/55189
What you need: Windows 10 or 11

Wintoys is one of our favourite free tools for optimising everything is junk”.
Windows, and is particularly useful for removing junk files Wintoys has improved its ‘Startup apps’
and unwanted software (see page 20 for instructions). It’s feature to list all programs and services that run
been updated with a host of new features and enhancements, on Windows startup in a pop-up box. This makes them
which give you even greater control over how your PC works. easier to browse, disable and enable – Wintoys also tells you
Wintoys’ Storage cleaner can now clean the caches of how long your PC last took to boot.
different versions of browsers, including Chrome Canary, Another change is to the Performance benchmark
Edge Beta and Firefox Nightly, as well as Windows logs. A function on the Home screen. This now rates your PC’s
new Others option removes junk from built-in Windows performance using a score out of 10, rather than a star
features, such as Widgets and Remote Desktop, and Wintoys rating, which Wintoys’ developer says was ‘confusing’.
now scours more thoroughly for temporary files. There’s also a handy new ‘Driver updates’ option in the
Usefully, you can now see how much free space is available Health section. This automatically updates your device
on your main hard drive before you perform a clean-up, and drivers when you install a Windows update or connect
the number and total size of files you’ve selected to delete. new hardware.
Wintoys also tells you how much space system restore points Wintoys is fully compatible with Windows 11 25H2, and
are consuming, and warns you that deleting them all is will continue to support Windows 10. Additionally, it’s now
irreversible (“consider a backup”). The Storage cleaner was possible to run it via Command Prompt, by typing wintoys
previously called Junk, but has been renamed because “not and pressing Enter.

1
2

1 The Performance feature on 2 Click the (separate) 3 Click the Health icon to 4 To change which section
Wintoys’ Home screen uses Performance icon in the left- access the ‘Cleanup’ options. is displayed each time
the Windows Experience hand menu to access the As well as the Storage cleaner you launch Wintoys, click
Index to evaluate the ‘Startup apps’ feature. This mentioned above, Wintoys the Settings cog in the
performance of your PC’s controls what runs when can clear the Microsoft Store bottom-left corner. Click
processor, memory, graphics your PC boots. You can also cache, File Explorer history the dropdown menu next
and main hard drive, and stop programs running in and system restore points, and to ‘Landing page’ to choose
score it out of 10. Click the background and disable reset your network settings. between Apps, Services,
the flame icon to run the Windows search indexing. Performance, Health and
benchmark test. Tweaks.

18 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

PRIVACY TOOL
SHOULD I PAY FOR…?
O&O ShutUp10++ 2.0.1009 Choose the right version of software
[Link]/56757
What you need: Windows 10 or 11
Bluetooth Battery Level
Although it’s due a [Link]/56774
new name, O&O Price: 79p Free trial period: 7 days
ShutUp10++ remains What you need: Windows 10 or 11
one of our favourite
free tools for Bluetooth has revolutionised the way we connect devices
tweaking invasive to our PCs, eliminating the need for unsightly cables. You
and annoying don’t even have to insert a USB receiver, as you do with
Windows settings. wireless mice and keyboards. The only snag is when a
This new version device runs out of battery and requires recharging.
– the first since Bluetooth Battery Level offers a convenient way to
February – takes aim monitor the battery levels of all your Bluetooth-connected
at Copilot, with a new tab devoted to Microsoft’s AI assistant devices in one place. These include your mouse, keyboard,
(see screenshot). This lets you disable Copilot functionality in headphones and speakers, as long as the manufacturer
the Windows registry, and remove the Copilot app if you provides this information.
never use the chatbot. The removal option is powered by its Although you can view battery status in the ‘Bluetooth &
sister tool O&O AppBuster to ensure all traces of Copilot devices’ section of Windows Settings, this Microsoft Store
are erased. O&O ShutUp10++ can also deactivate the app makes it much easier to do so. Simply click its icon
controversial Recall feature on Copilot+ PCs and delete all the in your system tray – this looks like the standard Bluetooth
screenshots it’s captured. Usefully, the program now displays logo, but with a connection symbol on the right – to view
the number of available settings for the Current User and a list of detected devices (these must already be paired
Local Machine (your entire PC) on their respective tabs. with your PC).
You’ll see the current battery level next to each entry
COMPRESSION TOOL (see screenshot). Click the down arrow to change the
device’s icon and add it to your system tray, so you can
PeaZip 10.7 hover your cursor over it to view the battery status. You
[Link]/56761 can also change the icon’s colour.
What you need: Windows 10 or 11, macOS or Linux Bluetooth Battery Level lets you set up notifications,
to alert you when a device’s battery level drops below a
This popular tool certain percentage. Click the Settings cog to set the app
for creating and to run automatically when Windows starts.
extracting archives
has been updated
to improve its file
manager. It now
includes an image
viewer that shows
thumbnails of files,
in addition to their
names, to ensure you
add the right items to archives. This option is disabled by
default but you can switch it on by clicking the Organize
menu and selecting ‘Show picture thumbnails’ (see
screenshot). PeaZip’s image viewer can also display full-size
pictures in a new window when you right-click them and
choose ‘File manager’ then ‘Show images’ – or select them
and press the Space bar. This even works with images inside OUR VERDICT: Pay for it
archives. Additionally, PeaZip has increased its number of For the bargain price of 79p, this is an essential app if you
supported archive formats to 242. PeaZip triggers a have several Bluetooth devices. Try it for free to make sure it
SmartScreen warning, but it’s safe to use so just click ‘More detects the ones you’ve paired with your PC.
info’ then ‘Run anyway’.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 19

 Best Free Software

What should I download?

We advise you which software and apps to use
Is there an app that lets me
What’s a simpler type large letters on my phone?
junk remover than I live with someone with
Q
BleachBit?
communication difficulties
and often have to write
messages in very large letters for
I’ve been a long-time user of BleachBit (www. them to understand. Bit of a long
Q [Link]), but I’m finding it harder to use.
It still removes junk when I set it to, but it seems
shot, but is there an app that I can
type large letters into? I use a
to have added so many settings that I don’t need. Is there a Samsung Galaxy A53 phone
simpler alternative? running Android.
Roy Lawrenson Dawn Hutchins

We agree that BleachBit’s settings can appear Yes, try ‘Large Text –
A daunting, and may do more harm than good if
you change, remove or disable something you
A Signboard’ ([Link].
com/56630), which also lets
shouldn’t. A far simpler alternative is Wintoys, which you you add emojis as a visual aid (see
can download for free from the Microsoft Store (www. screenshot). It remembers your past
[Link]/55189). It has a beautifully simple design messages, which you can show again
that’s similar to Windows itself. with a single tap. Light and dark themes are free and should be
First, click the Health icon on the left ( 1 in our screenshot) enough for most people, but you can pay for more expressive ones.
then Cleanup 2 . This gives you options to tidy up Storage,
File Explorer, Microsoft Store, Network and ‘System restore’.
Click ‘Storage’, for example, and you’ll see tickboxes for
removing items such as temporary files, Windows updates,
Can I remove scrollbars from
error files, browser caches (including for Brave and Opera scrolling screenshots?
since version [Link], released in April) and more 3 . It
shows below how much space you’ll free up 4 . Is there a screenshot program that lets you remove
Uninstalling unwanted software is also easy. Click Apps
on the left, then find the program you want to remove. Now
Q the scrollbar from screenshots it takes? These always
appear at the bottom when I take scrolling
click the three horizontal dots at the far right followed by screenshots, and I’m fed up having to always crop them out.
Uninstall. If you’re unsure what a program is, click Search Malcolm Dempsey
to read about it online. This works reliably for well-known
software, but when we tried it for Perplexity’s Comet ShareX ([Link] added this option to
browser (see page 74) it took us to news reports of the
interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS! See page 18 to discover what’s
A version 17, released in January. It ignores the bottom
50 pixels of your screenshot, which means the
new in the latest version of Wintoys. horizontal scrollbar won’t be included. Click ‘Capture’ at the
top left then
2 ‘Scrolling capture’.
2 You can also set a
1 keyboard shortcut to
trigger a scrolling
screenshot by
1 clicking ‘Hotkey
3 3 settings’ ( 1 in our
screenshot) then
Add 2 followed by
4 ‘Screen capture’
then ‘Start/Stop
scrolling capture’ 3 .

20 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722 Email us your questions at letters@[Link]

Named & Shamed
Keumars Afifi-Sabet puts the boot into tech villains,
jargon-spouting companies and software trying to trick you

SOFTWARE WARNING!
Google advertises its earbuds on its homepage

I
’ve come to expect rows Google should
of sponsored listings leave its
homepage for
muddying Google’s search searching, not
results. But it’s now showing advertising its
me adverts before I’ve even typed products
anything. This recently appeared on
Google’s homepage ([Link])
just below the search box: ‘New! Pixel
Buds 2a deliver rich audio and a great fit
at an even better price’ (see screenshot
right). Well, that’s good to know –
thanks Google!
It’s presented as an innocent link, as
though Google has some important news
to deliver. But click it and you’re taken
to Google’s online store ([Link]. become a problem. And with the other
com/56651), where you can buy the it shoves ads on to its own homepage.
Buds for £129 (see screenshot right). Such behaviour demonstrates why
The earbuds have ‘unbelievable comfort’ the Government wants to restrict
and ‘unreal sound’, apparently. I’d say Google’s search dominance in the UK
Google’s marketing shows unbelievable ([Link]/56650). Unbelievable comfort and unreal sound? More like
cheek and unreal arrogance. Of course, Google might claim it’s unbelievable cheek and unreal arrogance
I spotted the ad on the same day Google not an advert, but a promotion for its
announced it was letting users ‘hide’ own product. This is the kind of nonsense an advert, then it’s an advert.
sponsored results (see page 9). Talk about Microsoft comes up with when stuffing Which neatly brings me to my favourite
mixed messages. With one hand Google notifications for its apps across Windows. alternative search engine: DuckDuckGo.
finally admits that sponsored results have If it looks like an advert and quacks like Use that instead.

WHAT ARE THEY KEUMARS’ VILLAIN OF THE FORTNIGHT

TALKING ABOUT?
Det Con Niall Thubron
WHAT THEY SAY
Opera on its new browser cat (pictured) Instead of writing anything was working
[Link]/56648 here, I’m tempted to just type hard catching
“We know you love Opera Air’s built-in ‘HHHHHHHHHHHHHH criminals rather than
mindfulness tools, and so we thought you HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH’. watching reruns of Traffic
might love a digital companion too – and Yes, that’s the letter H Cops. But at a Durham
what better than that most mindful of pressed 30 times, which is Police misconduct hearing
creatures, the cat? Always in the present, all Detective Constable Niall in September it was
hyper aware of sensory experiences, Thubron (pictured) did while revealed he pulled this
masters of non-judgmental acceptance of working from home for 90 trick on 38 occasions across
the self – cats have much to teach us minutes on 3 December 2024. 12 separate days between December
if only we’d watch and learn.” To be fair, he then upped the pace 2024 and January 2025.
by pressing the ‘I’ key more than Thubron, who resigned in May,
WHAT THEY MEAN 16,000 times. has been banned from working for
We’re mindful that we may have He thought this ‘keyjamming’ the police again. Who’s going to
Credit: X

completely lost the plot. Time for a catnap. would fool bosses into thinking he hhhhhiiiiire him again?

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 21

 Reviews
New products tested by our experts New products tested by our experts

MINI PC I £430 I from Amazon [Link]/56684

GMKtec NucBox M6 Ultra

Watts: the big idea

In Issue 719 we tested Chinese

manufacturer GMKtec’s NucBox G10
([Link]/56114), and while
it’s very cheap at just £270 and delivers
solid performance in office software, its
six-year-old processor gave us pause for
thought. It left us wondering whether
GMK could squeeze more power out of a
mini PC with more cutting-edge
components. The M6 Ultra goes some
way to answering that question.

Lets you choose 35, performance is significant. We ran the doubles to two the number of 2.5Gbps
M6 through our usual benchmark tests, Ethernet ports. Wireless connections
45 or 50 Watts to stop using its 50W profile in various demanding are provided by Bluetooth 5.2 and the
processor tasks, and it comfortably much faster and more reliable Wi-Fi 6E
it overheating beat the G10. In gaming, the gap was standard.
even more pronounced, and thanks to If these power improvements still
Where the G10 is built around the the superior graphics on the Ryzen 5 aren’t enough, GMKtec also sells the M6
AMD Ryzen 5 3500U chip (released 7640HS, the M6 Ultra came out on top. Ultra without the memory and storage
in 2019), the M6 comes with the That said, don’t expect to play the latest (£222 with postage) so you can add
two-year-old Ryzen 5 7640HS. You not games on maximum settings. your own. Upgrades are easily done by
only get two additional cores and four The difference was less noticeable in popping the lid off and removing four
more threads (for six cores and 12 office-based programs and browsing, screws around the fan.
threads in total) to ensure improved however, with both mini PCs performing The M6 Ultra offers well-rounded
video and image-editing. It also well – particularly when using multiple performance, solid build quality and
includes support for DDR5 memory monitors. broad connectivity. But it doesn’t replace
and PCIe 4.0 SSDs for much faster The M6 is slightly larger than the G10 GMKtec’s NucBox K11 as our favourite
file-transfer speeds. at 44x112x117.5mm (HxWxD) – the extra mini PC (see page 32) because it’s slower,
All that extra muscle is not without its room is needed to accommodate the and lacks the OCuLink link for graphics
drawbacks. More cores means higher larger fan, which is very effective at cards. However, at this price, you’d be
power consumption and temperatures. keeping the newer processor cool. hard-pressed to find better.
To tackle this, GMKtec has included There’s also a set of vents below the ports,
three separate power profiles that let you enabling plenty of airflow and a VESA
swap between 35, 45 and 50 Watts, mount so you can attach it to your VERDICT With strong performance
depending on the level of performance monitor and save desk space. levels and a reasonable asking price,
you need. 35W would be ideal for a little It has plenty of ports too. The M6 has a the M6 Ultra is an ideal choice for
browsing or light productivity tasks. 3.5mm audio jack, three USB 3.2 ports anyone looking for a capable mini PC
For image or video editing, or a quick (one more than the G10), a front-facing on a budget
session in Microsoft’s Flight Simulator, USB-C port, a rear USB 2.0 port, plus
you’d need 50W. HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. It also
★★★★★
These improvements to the G10 come ALTERNATIVE GMKtec NucBox G10
with a steep price increase — from £270 to SPECIFICATIONS £270 It may not rival the M6 in more
£430. While that might seem justified, Six-core AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS processor • 16GB demanding gaming
the M6 Ultra has 500GB less storage – the RAM • AMD Radeon 760M graphics • 512GB SSD • and editing tasks,
basic model now includes only a single Wi-Fi 6E • Bluetooth 5.2 • 2x2.5Gbps Ethernet ports but at this
• 1x HDMI port • 1x DisplayPort • 1x USB-C port • 3x
512GB SSD and 16GB of RAM. That makes USB 3.2 ports • 1x USB 2.0 port • Windows 11 Pro
price, it’s a real
the higher price a little harder to swallow. • 44x112x117.5mm (HxWxD) • One-year warranty bargain
However, the improvement in [Link]/56684

22 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 HOW WE TEST
Computeractive is owned by Future PLC,
PC I £1,000 from Game [Link]/56688 which employs a team of specialist
technical reviewers. You’ll often read

Medion Erazer Bandit P20 references to our benchmark testing,

which is a method of assessing products
using the same criteria. For example, we
All guns blazing test the speed of every PC and the battery
life of every phone and tablet in exactly
the same way. This makes our reviews
authoritative, rigorous and accurate.
We know gaming isn’t for everyone, but Future PLC also owns the magazines
if you’re interested in other resource- PC Pro, T3 and What Hi-Fi, and the
hungry tasks such as video and image websites Tom’s Hardware (www.
editing, a gaming PC will make your life [Link]), TechRadar (www.
so much easier. That’s why Medion’s [Link]) and Windows Central
latest Erazer Bandit P20 is such a ([Link]). This means
tempting offer. The German PC we can test thousands of products
manufacturer has delivered a nicely before choosing the most relevant for
compact desktop PC that crams some Computeractive.
of the best current components into its
slender case, all at a price that won’t FAIR AND IMPARTIAL
break the bank. Our writers follow strict guidelines to
processor is cooled by a Cooler Master ensure the reviews are fair and impartial.
Hyper4 OEM air tower, while five fans The manufacturer has no involvement in
Medion has done a push air through the case. As with many our tests.
PCs designed for gaming, the fans emit
great job of balancing coloured light and there’s no way to OUR AWARDS
control this or turn it off, which could be We award every product
a compact design, a pain if you’re downloading something that gets five stars our
Buy It! stamp of approval.
power and price overnight and need to leave the PC on.
The fans also produce a noticeable hum It means we were
even when you’re just browsing the web. extremely impressed by the product,
Inside is a 10-core Intel Core i5-14400 Connectivity is provided by two USB-A and we think you will be too.
processor. Although Intel recently ports, a 3.5mm jack plug and a USB-C
Every product that gets a
replaced this with the Ultra Core series, port on top of the case where they’re
four-star review is given the
the older chip is actually significantly within easy reach. At the rear there are
Recommended award. We
better at tasks that require higher two USB 2.0, a 10Gbps USB-C, two USB
highly recommend these
clock speeds such as video editing and 3.2 ports and a 1Gbps Ethernet socket.
products, although they just fail to meet the
gaming. On the downside, it uses more The Bandit also supports Wi-Fi 6E and
high standard of our Buy It! winners.
power than the more efficient Ultra has three audio ports: Mic in, Line in
chips, but you get faster editing and and Line out. PRICES
better in-game performance, particularly You get a lot for your money here. Our reviews contain a link to the best price
at Full HD resolution. From the handy size and high build we found online at the time of press.
The processor is backed by 16GB of quality to the fantastic performance in
RAM, a 1TB SSD and one of Nvidia’s demanding software, Medion has done a
latest RTX 5060 8GB graphics cards. It great job of balancing performance and
achieved impressive results in our price. The RGB light show and fan hum VERDICT A powerful and compact
benchmark tests at both 1080p and 1440p are disappointing, and we’ve seen more desktop PC that’s as comfortable
resolutions. Frame rates rarely fell below memory in models with a similar price gaming as it is video editing
60fps – and that was at 1440p with high and specification (such as PCSpecialist’s
graphical settings. There are many games Frostbyte Elite, reviewed in Issue 715
★★★★★
that will push the graphics card a little [Link]/55417). Nonetheless, ALTERNATIVE
harder than our tests, but with the help the Bandit is an excellent all-round PCSpecialist
of Nvidia’s AI upscaling technology desktop PC for those who want Frostbyte Elite
(known as DLSS) even those will run at productivity, creativity and a bit of fun. £999 With twice
50fps or more, ensuring smooth, as much RAM,
beautifully crisp visuals. SPECIFICATIONS the Elite is slightly
Ten-core Intel Core i5-14400 processor • 16GB RAM
Medion has squeezed all this into a • 8GB Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 graphics card •
better at intense
tight little case that measures just 1TB SSD • Wi-Fi 6E • Windows 11 Home • Two-year editing tasks
347x215x401mm (HxWxD). The warranty [Link]/56688

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 23

 Reviews
PC/KEYBOARD ❘ £192 from The Pi Hut [Link]/56693

Raspberry Pi 500+
Blows the budget

A blend of classic 1980s Commodore

design and modern hardware, we
were very impressed by the original
Raspberry Pi 500 (£96 from [Link].
com/56696) when we reviewed it
in Issue 702. Having a Linux-based
budget PC hidden away inside a reliable
chiclet keyboard, ready to go, made it
far easier to set up than previous
generations of the Pi, and its performance
levels were good enough to handle light
office work and web browsing – all at a tactile response and audible feedback Compared with the original 500
respectable price. from each key press is a delight, but it you’re effectively paying £96 extra for a
won’t be for everyone. It’s very similar small SSD, twice as much RAM and a
to typing on the classic IBM Model M decent keyboard. In fact, the price is not
Its new SSD makes keyboard ([Link]/56697). The far off what you might pay for a mini
keys are fully illuminated, with RGB PC or Chromebook.
the 500+ remarkably lighting, all of which can be controlled For example, GMKtec’s G10 (www.
through Raspberry Pi’s included software. [Link]/56114), which we reviewed in
snappy, but it costs Otherwise, the main specifications Issue 719, is just £80 more, and you get
remain practically identical. You still far superior performance, an SSD that’s
almost the same get two microHDMI ports (capable of four times the size, and Windows 11.

as a mini PC supporting 4K monitors), two USB 3.2,

one USB 2.0 and a Gigabit Ethernet
When you also consider it has the
same processor as both the 500 and the
socket (all pictured below). Raspberry Pi 5 (released in 2023), which
It wasn’t perfect, however. The lack There’s also dual-band AC wireless, has almost the same specs but is even
of a dedicated SSD meant load times Bluetooth 5.0, that microSD card slot, cheaper at just £76.80 for the 8GB model
were slow, and RAM was limited. Enter and the same ARM processor running ([Link]/56695), it makes the
the Raspberry Pi 500+. as fast as before. It also runs the same 500+ difficult to justify.
This new piece of kit from the Raspberry Pi OS, based on Debian Linux.
British manufacturer fixes that first Performance is strong in every area. SPECIFICATIONS
downside by introducing an easily That SSD makes the 500+ remarkably Four-core Broadcom BCM2712 ARM processor • 16GB
accessible, full-sized 256GB SSD (it snappy, with rapid load times of under RAM • VideoCore VII graphics • Wi-Fi 5 • Bluetooth
5.0 • 2x USB 3.2 ports • 1x USB-C port (power only) •
still has a microSD card slot as well). 20 seconds for the operating system,
1x USB 2.0 port • 2x microHDMI ports • MicroSD card
Simply remove four Phillips screws while moving files around feels seamless slot • Gigabit Ethernet port • 40-pin GPIO header •
from underneath the keyboard, then compared with the microSD limitations 35.76x312x123mm (HxWxD) • One-year warranty
use a plastic pry tool to pop off the base, of the original 500. In our testing for [Link]/56693
and you’ll see your M.2 slot. Meanwhile, light office and web browsing, the 500+
the RAM has doubled to 16GB, letting you performed smoothly with no major
run more apps simultaneously without issues. In fact it’s easy to forget you’re VERDICT Its storage, RAM and
your desktop freezing. using such a small PC. keyboard have all been improved, but
The other major change involves the The big problem, however, is the price. it’s simply too expensive
keyboard. Raspberry Pi has ditched the The Pi 500+ costs £192 for the base
chiclet version of the older 500 model model. That goes up to £211.20 if you
★★★★★
and opted for a fully mechanical setup want the desktop package, which ALTERNATIVE Raspberry Pi 500
instead (available in white only). This includes a mouse, beginner’s guide, £96 The original 500 delivers similar
replaces those soft key-switches for clicky power cable and microHDMI-to-HDMI performance, but at half the cost
ones, which feel great to type on. The cable ([Link]/56694).

24 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Reviews
SMARTPHONE ❘ £474 from [Link] [Link]/56754
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SPECS
Fairphone 6 LiDAR
Right to repair
What is it?
Standing for Light Detection and
Ranging, LiDAR is a remote sensing
Dutch company Fairphone has been method for measuring distances and
around since 2013, but has operated in creating high-resolution 3D models of
the shadows of the likes of Samsung, the Earth’s surface and other objects.
Apple and others. That’s a shame
because the Fairphone 6 is unique for How does it work?
being the the only smartphone you can It bounces infrared light out into an
easily repair yourself. environment, either through tiny
The overall specification is fairly fixed-angle mirrors or via a rotating
average. The processor is Qualcomm’s mirror mechanism. The former, known
Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 from 2023, which is as consumer
good enough for everyday use, performing MIL-STD-810H protection, along with LiDAR, is found
well in our benchmarking tests, but not IP55 dust and water protection. in high-end
as powerful as, say, the Exynos chip in More importantly, its hefty design smartphones
Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 FE (£650 lets you replace almost every component such as the
from [Link]/56702). in the phone, if needed. By removing iPhone 12 Pro
just a few screws on the back, and by (pictured)
watching Fairphone’s video tutorials and later.
Its hefty design lets ([Link]/56711), you can Phones
install a new battery for just £34.78, or use LiDAR for
you replace almost the entire screen for £78. features such

every component In fact, you can replace all the camera

lenses, USB ports, speakers, microphones,
as adjusting autofocus in real time to
enhance your photos. This is especially
the lot – all at reasonable costs. This helpful in low light, because LiDAR tells
It has 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, should help the Fairphone 6 last longer the camera exactly where objects are
which again is a little disappointing. than many rival phones. Fairphone in 3D space. Augmented-reality apps
Battery life is also modest. Although a promises seven years of software support can use it to calculate the size of rooms,
single charge will last you a day – thanks too, taking you up to Android 25. people and objects with a high degree
to its 4,415mAh capacity – it does take a The camera setup – although it works of accuracy.
while to recharge due to its limited perfectly fine – lacks the post-image Rotating mirrors are used in robot
30-Watt charging speed (giving you 50 processing of more expensive phones, vacuum cleaners for avoiding walls and
per cent in around 25 minutes), and and therefore colours often look washed furniture, and mapping the fastest way
there’s no wireless charging. As for out or dull. It still has a 50-megapixel to clean a room. Drones also use it to
connectivity, you get Wi-Fi 6E, main lens, a 13-megapixel ultrawide avoid objects.
Bluetooth 5.4 and a USB-C port. unit, and a 32-megapixel front-facing
The design, though, is something else. camera, but you’ll be spending a lot of What are the specs?
Available in black, white or green, and time editing snaps afterwards to really Many manufacturers don’t reveal
measuring just 156.5x73.3x9.6mm bring them to life. the specs of their LiDAR in phones.
(HxWxD), with a 6.3in 2484x1116-pixel Instead it’s best to look at how a device
OLED screen, it’s remarkably compact, performs in certain conditions. How
yet surprisingly thick. VERDICT Average performance, but well smartphones handle low-light
That chunkiness is mostly down to the its repairability means it’ll last much photography is a good indicator,
recycled plastic plating around the longer than many rival phones because LiDAR uses infrared light
display. This gives it military-grade to create superior shots in low-lit
★★★★★ conditions.
ALTERNATIVE
SPECIFICATIONS
Octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 Samsung Galaxy Can I change it later?
processor • 8GB RAM • 6.3in 2484x1116-pixel S25 FE £650 More You can’t remove or turn off LiDAR on
resolution 120Hz OLED touchscreen • 256GB storage expensive, but the devices that include it, but as LiDAR has
• 50-megapixel rear camera • 13-megapixel ultrawide performance level and no downsides, there’s no real reason to
rear camera • 32-megapixel front camera • IP55
ingress protection • Wi-Fi 6E • Bluetooth 5.4 • Android
design are leagues do that. It draws a very minimal amount
15 • 156.5x73.3x9.6mm (HxWxD) • 193g • Five-year ahead of power when in use.
warranty [Link]/56701

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 25

 Reviews
EARBUDS ❘ £179 from Amazon [Link]/56749

Nothing Ear (3)

Nil paid

Nothing, the quirkily named British Nothing’s previous model. The Ear (3)s
company, has gained a reputation for provide an incredibly energetic sound, no
delivering exceptional smartphones and matter which genre of music you play.
earbuds since launching its first phone in There’s perhaps a little too much
2022. We reviewed its Nothing Ear (a) emphasis on high frequencies, but
earbuds back in Issue 684 when they the ANC performs admirably thanks
were £80, but Amazon has been selling to the three microphones in each bud.
them for £70 recently ([Link]. In our testing it cut out all but the the plus side there’s Bluetooth 5.4,
com/56753) and they remain among the harshest of noises (even blocking out a waterproofing up to IP54 rating, and
best budget ANC earbuds available. In hairdryer). Nothing has also included LDAC codec support for high-resolution
fact, you’d be hard pressed to find better extensive support in its app, with an audio on Android devices.
– with the only close competition being equaliser sound optimisation test, a The problem lies with the price.
Sony’s WF-C700Ns (£69 from www. find-my-headphones tool, and a fit test Without a Nothing phone for that
[Link]/56707). that helps you to identify the most voice-note transcription, the Super Mic is
The beautifully designed Ear (3)s are comfortable ear tips. nothing special. And while the ANC and
effectively the successor to the Ear (a), The star of the show, however, is what audio quality are excellent, they’re no
but they come with one major caveat, Nothing calls its ‘Super Mic’. This is a better than the much cheaper Ear (a)s.
and that’s the price – a steep £179. dual-beamforming microphone array
That’s far higher than any of Nothing’s built into the case that you can use like
previous buds, and only £40 cheaper a walkie-talkie. If you own a Nothing VERDICT Brilliant audio and noise
than Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 line (www. phone you can make voice notes by cancelling, but it doesn’t justify paying
[Link]/56708) – though they come holding down the button on the side £100 more than the Ear (a)s
with heart-rate monitoring, live of the earbuds’ case and have them
translation and longer battery life. transcribed to Nothing’s app.
★★★★★
The good news is that, from our testing, Alternatively, you can simply use it as a ALTERNATIVE
audio quality is just as good as on mic to take calls, and its active noise Nothing Ear (a)
cancelling is incredibly effective. £69 Fantastic noise
SPECIFICATIONS Battery life is a little disappointing with cancelling, decent
12mm drivers • Active-noise cancellation • 38-hours
the buds lasting just five hours 30 minutes battery life, high-
listening time (with noise cancelling off) • Bluetooth
5.4 • 56x55.5x22.25mm case (HxWxD) • 71.4g with ANC enabled, and 22 hours with quality audio and
(including case) • One-year warranty [Link]. the case. But you do get 10 hours and 38 getting cheaper
com/56706 hours respectively with ANC disabled. On

WHAT SHOULD I BUY? We solve your buying dilemmas

What’s the best 16in laptop for my requirements?

I need a new laptop with a We recommend the Acer Swift OLED screen, with vibrant colours,
Q 16in or 17in screen, 32GB
RAM, 1TB SSD, Windows 11
A AI 16 (pictured). Although we’ve
not reviewed this exact model,
and a super-smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
As for connectivity, you get Bluetooth
Home, a built-in webcam and we did take a look at the smaller 14in 5.3 and Wi-Fi 7. There’s an impressive
microphone, Bluetooth 5.1, and version in Issue 696 (page 23). It’s Quad HD webcam, along with an
multiple USB ports. I’ve always found available from Currys for £1,299 (www. integrated microphone.
Intel processors [Link]/56744) and it’s perfect for If you do need additional USB ports,
excellent, but I’m what you need, despite being £200 buy Acer’s £28 hub ([Link].
open to other under your budget. com/56745). This gives you additional
options. My It has two USB 3.2 and two Thunderbolt 4 USB 3.0, Ethernet, HDMI, SD card
budget is up USB-C ports. It’s also got 32GB RAM, a reader and VGA ports.
to £1,500. 1TB SSD, an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, Do you need advice on what you should buy?
Evelyn Reid and an outstanding 16in 2880x1800-pixel Email us at letters@[Link]

26 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

KEYBOARD ❘ £50 from Keychron [Link]/56712

Keychron B36
Flip the switch

At £50 the B36 keyboard from

Chinese manufacturer Keychron
is aimed at those looking for a
no-frills unit with plenty of
versatility. This isn’t a backlit,
gaming keyboard with mechanical 800mAh battery giving you around 320 elevated key switches, but otherwise
switches, but for the price it’s impressive. hours of use – or alternatively you could the B36 is a great keyboard.
Typing is incredibly comfortable. simply keep the cable plugged in.
Keychron uses scissor switches, instead The best feature is dual-system
of the usual membrane option you’d compatibility. A simple switch on the VERDICT A budget keyboard that lets
find at this price. These are taller than back lets you swap between macOS and you instantly swap between operating
the typical low-profile switches and Windows profiles – all of the key caps systems and connection types, and it
lubricated, making them exceptionally are labelled for use on both operating has incredibly quiet keys
quiet and smooth to use. systems. ★★★★★
There’s wireless connectivity, with There’s another switch next to this,
Bluetooth 5.2 and a Wireless 2.4GHz allowing you to instantly swap between ALTERNATIVE Dell Pro Wired
USB dongle, as well as a wired USB-C Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Simply connect Collaboration Keyboard KB525C £40
connection. That’s backed up by an the B36 to your Mac via Bluetooth and Built with Microsoft Teams and video
to your Windows PC with the Wi-Fi calls in mind, it’s ideal for anyone
SPECIFICATIONS dongle, for example, and the switch who just
Full-size layout • Bluetooth 5.2 • Wireless 2.4 GHz •
will let you flip between the two wants the
USB-C • Scissor switches • 26x437x131mm (HxWxD)
• 320-hour battery life • 650g • One-year warranty machines in seconds. essentials
[Link]/56712 It does take a while to get used to those

BLUETOOTH SPEAKER ❘ £50 from Amazon [Link]/56713

Edifier ES20
Sounds amazing

Edifier’s on a roll with its latest speaker but it’s hard to distinguish between
models, and the ES20 is perhaps the most them and none are configurable.
interesting of the lot. This tiny handheld The ES20 also features a noise-
unit (at just under 10cm tall) with lush cancelling microphone that lets you take
retro-styling delivers exceptional audio calls directly, and there’s a little ambient
quality for an incredibly low price. backlighting that does impact battery life,
In our testing, music output was but can be disabled if you prefer. ability to adjust those equaliser profiles, the
punchy, with well-balanced, warm bass Charging is handled by a simple USB-C ES20 could be the perfect small speaker.
and mid tones, while trebles really stood cable, and you can expect around 15
out. At this size, you’ll never get the hours of battery life at 50-per-cent
beefiest bass notes, and when you do volume from a full charge with lighting VERDICT Affordable with impressive
ramp up the volume, there’s noticeable switched off. This beats rivals like the JBL audio and a timeless design, the ES20
compression at higher frequencies, creating Clip 5 (£46 from [Link]/56714), may just be the best portable speaker
a little distortion, but it’s a small quibble. which only manages 12 hours. available
Edifier does provide a set of equalisers Other notable features include IP67
in its ConneX app – including Music, ingress protection; four buttons on top to
★★★★★
Gaming, Movies and Outdoor modes – control playback and connectivity; a nifty ALTERNATIVE JBL Clip 5
leather travel strap; and support for the £46 It’s small, with
SPECIFICATIONS SBC codec (although no LBAC for hi-fi top-quality audio, although
6W total power output • 15-hour battery life •
Bluetooth 5.4 • USB-C for charging •
audio lovers). Connectivity is handled you can’t stand it up, and
93.7x90.4x49.7mm (HxWxD) • 326g • One-year by Bluetooth 5.4 alone. the equaliser is limited
warranty [Link]/56713 With a slight upgrade to the app and the

5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Reviews
EXTERNAL SSD I From £204 from Scan [Link]/56722
DO I REALLY NEED...
LaCie Rugged SSD4 A toilet bowl
Tough choice smart camera?
What is it?
LaCie’s line of external hard drives The Dekoda from
enjoy a reputation for being among US firm Kohler
the most rugged in the business. With Health (www.
their distinctive orange rubber bumpers [Link]/56773)
and lifeboat-style design, they certainly is a battery-
look the part. powered smart camera (pictured) that
The French/US manufacturer has just attaches to the rim of your toilet, facing
released four capacities of its latest down into the bowl. It uses multiple
USB 4.0-compatible SSD, and they’re sensors to analyse your family’s waste.
certainly not cheap. 1TB starts at £204
([Link]/56723); 2TB for £420 What does it do?
([Link]/56724); and 4TB for Through spectrometry, it looks at your
an eye-watering £600 ([Link]. excretions, and studies the shape,
com/56725). size, consistency and how light reacts
The reason they’re so expensive is with it to provide an insight into your
because they can take advantage of gut health. It’ll even spot blood and
that nifty USB 4.0 connection standard, non-waterproof USB port means it’s other warning signs, and alert you via a
which gives them a theoretical maximum only IP54 rated and can handle a few smartphone app.
speed of 40Gbps on devices that support splashes, but that’s about it.
it. Compare that with USB 3.2 drives, Another frustration is that it only What’s the catch?
which top out at just 10Gbps. File comes with a USB-C-to-USB-C cable. If It costs $599 (about £450), while
transfers are effectively four times as fast, you need to connect to a USB-A port, the app requires a $12.99 monthly
making it fantastic for transferring video you’ll have to buy your own adapter, subscription, increasing in price
and photos while out and about. although that will be limited to USB 3.2 depending on how many people you
This isn’t the first USB 4.0 drive speeds. Included software is also fairly have in your household.
we’ve tested – Corsair’s EX400U (£180 basic, comprising simple backup tools.
for 2TB from [Link]/53939, LaCie doesn’t throw in any online So can I do without it?
reviewed in Issue 705) was similarly back-up services or any additional Yes. If you do have any health
equipped, but over £20 cheaper. That features, outside of a three-year data- concerns, you should consult a medical
drive reached impressive speeds in our recovery service. professional, not a smart toilet.
tests, maxxing out at 3,625 MB/s on Despite these drawbacks, its blistering
write speeds and 4,050 MB/s on read speed makes it a great purchase -
speeds. During benchmarking, the especially if you need tough protection NEXT ISSUE
SSD4 consistently beat that, scoring for your files when outside.
4,058 MB/s on reads and a staggering
SPECIFICATIONS On Sale Weds 19 Nov
3,741 MB/s on writes.
Available in 1TB, 2TB and 4TB capacities • USB 4.0 •
We did encounter one small problem Speeds up to 4000MB/s • Backup software included
during testing. Initially, we were using Wired2Fire AMD
• 67x106x106mm(HxWxD) • 108g • Three-year
one of GMKtec’s EVO-T1 mini PCs warranty [Link]/56722
R8845
Powerful British-
(£1,156 from [Link]/56726),
made mini PC –
with an external graphics card. To is it worth £600?
activate that card, the PC effectively had VERDICT The fastest external hard
to throttle the max speed on its USB 4.0 drive we’ve ever tested, and is robust iPad Pro
port to just 20Gbps. So bear in mind, enough to survive most falls Comes with
even though you might have a USB 4.0 the mighty M5
port, it may not run at full speed. Check
★★★★★
processor, but
your PC manufacturer’s specifications ALTERNATIVE what else is new?
before committing to purchasing any Corsair EX400U £180
USB 4.0 drive. Cheaper, and it’s These and much more...
The rubber sides add a decent layer almost as fast, with Subscribe to Computeractive at
of protection, and is rated to survive a the same IP54 rating. [Link]
three-metre drop. However, the

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 29

 Buy It Find out which other products we liked.
Buy our 2024 Back Issue CD:
£19 from [Link]/53433

Our pick of products that have won the Buy It award

LAPTOP DESKTOP PC APPLE iPAD

MSI Prestige A16 AI+ Palicomp AMD Cobra Apple iPad 11

£1,100 from [Link]/55962 £400 from [Link]/43515 £329 from [Link]/54887
Tested Issue 718 Tested Issue 643 Tested Issue 711

With a faster processor and increased

storage (from 64GB to 128GB), the
A powerful Copilot+ laptop with 32GB This fast PC is a mouth-watering 2025 edition of the iPad is simply
of RAM and a 1TB SSD to guarantee bargain, with 16GB of RAM, a 2TB SSD stunning. Battery life is over 11 hours,
fast performance. Screen is excellent and a six-core processor – though it which is better than any other iPad,
too, while battery lasts an impressive lacks USB-C ports and built-in Wi-Fi. including more expensive models.
17 hours.
ALTERNATIVE Wired2Fire Ultima WS ALTERNATIVE iPad mini 7 The 2024
ALTERNATIVE PCSpecialist 16 Fusion Home Office Workstation Blisteringly version of the mini improves the colour
British-made laptop with superb screen fast PC, powered by an overclocked accuracy on the 8.3in screen and has a
and built for advanced AI tasks. £956 eight-core processor and 1TB SSD. more powerful processor. £499 from
from [Link]/55094 £613 from [Link]/41500 [Link]/52573

ANDROID TABLET APPLE iPHONE ANDROID PHONE P

DRRIC
OP E
OnePlus Pad 3 Apple iPhone 16 Samsung Galaxy A56
£529 from [Link]/55302 £699 from [Link]/53981 £424 from [Link]/54585
Tested Issue 714 Tested Issue 695 Tested Issue 709

With an incredibly fast processor

and stunning 13.2in screen, this is
the best ever Android tablet, and
rivals the iPad Air. At launch both the This is the best new iPhone for years, The successor to Samsung’s mid-
12GB RAM/256GB and 16GB/512GB boosted by a processor that’s as fast as range A55, this has a stunning screen
versions were £529, so grab the latter much more expensive models. The screen and lasted over 29 hours in our tests.
as soon as possible. is excellent, while the new Camera Control It’s faster than Google’s Pixel 7a in all
button gives lots of ways to take photos. tasks, and has AI-powered photo tools.
ALTERNATIVE Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Has a much brighter screen than its ALTERNATIVE iPhone 14 Now heavily ALTERNATIVE Google Pixel 7a Cheaper
predecessor, making it ideal for watching discounted, this remains a speedy version of Google’s flagship phone, it
TV. Also has a faster processor, speeding phone with great features and an uses AI to improve photos and lasts 10
up tasks. £584 (128GB) from www. impressive camera. £495 (128GB) from hours. Has fast processor and 8GB RAM.
[Link]/50039 [Link]/53982 £460 from [Link]/56073

30 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Buy It
Our pick of products that have won the Buy It award
MINI PC EBOOK READER SECURITY SOFTWARE

GMKtec NucBox K11 Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Norton 360 Deluxe 2025
£700 from [Link]/54341 £160 from [Link]/52730 £14.99 from [Link]/54797
Tested Issue 707 Tested Issue 698 Tested Issue 629

Norton has always performed strongly

A fast and powerful machine, but The sixth version of the Paperwhite in our antivirus tests, regularly making
what really sets it apart are the ports has a larger screen (7in), faster page the top three. Owned by US firm Gen
letting you upgrade it – such as the turns and longer battery life (12 weeks Digital, it’s available at a discount on
OCuLink connection for graphics – up from 10). Its glare-free finish our Software Store. Use the link above
cards. Also has six USB ports, 32GB RAM means you can easily read it in bright for a three-device, two-year licence at
(upgradeable to 96GB) and a 1TB SSD. sunlight, and its 300ppi resolution a special discount price. Other versions
makes text a joy to read. are available.
ALTERNATIVE Geekom A8
Too small to accommodate many ports, ALTERNATIVE Kobo Libra Kobo’s first ALTERNATIVE Bitdefender Total
but makes up for it with a 2TB SSD and colour e-reader, with over 4,000 tones to Security Another top performer that
SD card slot for adding storage. £779 make illustrations and photos leap out. we’re offering at a discount. £24.99
from [Link]/55383 £210 from [Link]/50192 from [Link]/41141

WEBCAM PC MONITOR SOLID-STATE DRIVE

Obsbot Meet SE Philips 27E1N1600AE Corsair MP600 Pro LPX 1TB

£67 from [Link]/54725 £182 from [Link]/54190 £84 from [Link]/52658
Tested Issue 710 Tested Issue 692 Tested Issue 630

An affordable 27in monitor with a In our tests, this M.2 SSD hit speeds
The Meet SE from Chinese firm Obsbot sharp resolution, impressive image of 7,364MB/s and 6,870MB/s when
beats the picture quality of our previous quality and a sturdy build. It has an reading and writing data – astonishingly
favourite, Logitech’s C925e. Colours HDMI port, a USB-C port and two USB fast scores. It’s compatible with the
are vibrant and accurate, with terrific 3.0. The hefty base means you can new PCIe 4.0 standard, which is twice
detail even in poor lighting thanks to a raise and tilt the monitor easily using as fast as PCIe 3.0. The 1TB model
relatively wide aperture. just one hand. costs £84; 2TB costs £170.

ALTERNATIVE Creative Live Cam Sync 4K ALTERNATIVE Asus ROG Strix XG27ACS ALTERNATIVE Crucial MX500 500GB
Affordable 4K webcam with high- Another excellent 27in monitor with As fast as an SSD can get in the
quality video that can also capture 1440p resolution and a fast refresh traditional 2.5in SATA format, this
voice from a distance. £45 from rate aimed at gamers. £229 from is a great-value upgrade. £85 from
[Link]/56585 [Link]/49898 [Link]/53808

32 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Buy It

COMPETITION

Win 1 of 2
Shokz OpenDots
ONE headphones
Winner of a Recommended award in listen to your music, your way
Issue 719 (page 28), the OpenDots and Dolby Audio ensures you’ll
ONE are Shokz’s first clip-on style feel every note, every beat, every To enter this competition, answer
earbuds. Lightweight and compact, nuance. the question at [Link].
they offer up to 10 hours of rich, DirectPitch Technology minimises com/56618 and submit your details
immersive audio in total comfort. sound leakage, so your music stays by midnight Tuesday 18 November.
With a durable nickel-titanium plate between you and your earbuds. Good luck!
combined with a soft silicone grip, the They last for up to 10 hours of
OpenDots ONE stay securely in place listening off one charge, and a total You can buy Shokz OpenDots One
whatever you’re doing. This innovative of up to 40 hours with the included headphones for £179 from John
design ensures a comfortable, secure charging case. A quick 10-minute Lewis at [Link]/56172.
fit for every ear shape. charge gives you up to two hours For more Shokz headphones visit
With 4 pre-set EQ modes, you can of listening. [Link]

PRINTER SMART TV ROUTER P

DRRIC
OP E
HP OfficeJet Pro 9135e Bush 43UT24SB TP-Link Archer BE550
£181 from [Link]/53101 £180 from [Link]/53637 £180 from [Link]/55981
Tested Issue 700 Tested Issue 703 Tested Issue 718

It’s rare to find a 43in TV this cheap,

A versatile cartridge printer-scanner especially with a superbly bright screen.
for the home office that makes printing Sound isn’t bad either, and it offers most This tri-band router is the first Wi-Fi
jobs quicker and easier than most of of the streaming services, including 7 model to be our top choice. It had
its inkjet rivals. Colour prints cost a Freely. Its TiVo operating system is enough bandwidth across our test house
reasonable 6p per page, while mono very easy to use. to stream six 4K movies simultaneously,
costs 2p. Printed text is superb and and has five 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports.
photos are pretty good too. ALTERNATIVE Sharp GM6245K
Has a fantastic 43in screen with ALTERNATIVE Asus RT-AXE7800
ALTERNATIVE Epson EcoTank ET-1810 superb contrast, and 4K content looks Our previous favourite is also tri-band,
Not the fastest printer, but comes with especially detailed. Comes with TiVo for but only on Wi-Fi 6E. That still delivers
enough ink for 4,500 mono and 7,500 paid-for streaming and Freely for free incredibly fast speeds that stretched
colour pages. £140 from [Link]. live channels and catch-up. £230 from deep into our test house. £180 from
com/52191 [Link]/55940 [Link]/52957

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 33

Computeractive 2024
Back Issue CD & USB Stick
Both the CD and Stick contain all 26 issues from 2024

LE NOW!
ON SA

SOLD OUT
BACK IN
STOCK!

Buy the CD from us at Buy the Stick from us at

[Link]/53433 [Link]/53180
 Pull Out
& Keep

Workshops & Tips Issue 722

14 pages of easy-to-follow workshops and expert tips

35 U
 pload your photos to 40 Readers’ Tips PLUS
share publicly 44 Phone & Tablet Tips 47 M
 ake Office Better
42 Browser Tips
38 U
 se webmail to record 46 M
 ake Windows 48 In the Club: Schedule
43 AI Tips: Transform
notes and reminders Better group WhatsApp calls
videos using Restyle

HOW TO...
Upload your photos to
share publicly by Nik Rawlinson

What you need: Images to share Time required: 20 minutes

A
t the end of September, many can stop data being
forum users in the UK noticed served to certain
blank spaces where images used regions. It’s often
to be. The missing pictures had been used to block requests
hosted on Imgur, a service that made it from known spam or
easy to share images without creating an malicious servers,
account or paying for web space. You although in this case This is all you see when you visit Imgur’s site in the UK
simply uploaded a picture, copied the it’s to stop UK users
link and then posted it in your forum accessing content ahead of possible Visit [Link] and you’ll see the
message. However, people in the UK action by a UK authority. message ‘Content Not Available’ (see
stopped seeing those images because Imgur is owned by MediaLab AI, based screenshot above).
Imgur introduced geofencing to block in San Francisco. In September the UK’s If you’re thinking this doesn’t affect
access for the whole country. data watchdog, the Information you because you don’t use Imgur, think
When a site uses geofencing, its servers Commissioners Office (ICO), told again. The service has long been a
check the IP address of the computer MediaLab AI that it intended to fine the popular way for people to post images
requesting data – such as an image – and company over how it checks the ages of online that they later embed in a social
decide whether or not to allow it. If the users and what it does with children’s media or forum post. So even if you’ve
rules permit access only from a specific data. MediaLab AI can appeal the ICO’s never shared images this way, you’ve
region, the server responds only to IPs decision, but in the meantime it has probably been viewing Imgur-hosted
registered there. Likewise, geofencing blocked its service to users in the UK. pictures without knowing it.

Use a VPN to get round VPNs, including Opera ([Link].

1 the block
If you still want to see those 2
1 com), which we’ll use here. Open it,
then click the three horizontal lines
pictures, one workaround is to use a VPN to the right of the address bar to open
to make it appear as if you’re browsing its Settings menu ( 1 in screenshot left).
from a different country. Our favourite Click ‘Enable in Settings’ to the right
free VPN is ProtonVPN ([Link]. of VPN 2 .
com), while the best paid-for version is When an alert appears warning you
NordVPN ([Link]). However, Click ‘Enable in Settings’ next to VPN to turn that your connection speed might be
many browsers now have free built-in on Opera’s browser affected, click ‘I understand’. You’ll now

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 35

 Choose
1
3 whether
your images
are family
1 safe and set
2 thumbnail
2 dimensions
3
4
Opera is routing our internet traffic through a
server in Africa, letting us access Imgur 6
see VPN in a box on the left of the
address bar ( 1 in our screenshot above). 5
Click this, then click the power button
in the menu that appears. Opera will
choose a location and connect you to a Once you’ve selected your files, click option if you’re uploading multiple
server in that country. In our example, the menu beside content type and choose images 4 . If you do, enter a name for
Opera is routing our internet traffic whether you are uploading ‘family safe’ the gallery in the box under this menu,
through a server in Africa 2 so we or adult content ( 1 in our screenshot then click Add More 5 and choose which
should be able to access sites that are above). Now use the thumbnail menu to other images you want in the gallery.
unavailable to UK users even if we’re decide the size of the thumbnail (between When you’ve finished, click ‘Start
browsing from the UK. 100 and 800 pixels square) 2 . You can upload’ 6 and Imgbox will upload the
If the VPN connects you through also choose between ‘square’ and ‘resized’ images to its servers. Uploading four
a server in the UK, any site that’s thumbnails, depending on where in the images of around 3MB apiece over our
blocked to UK users will continue to be menu you choose the dimensions. fibre broadband connection took less
unavailable. In this case you’ll need to If you choose ‘square’, Imgbox will than 30 seconds.
switch your virtual browsing location resize the image so its smallest dimension Once your pictures have uploaded,
manually. To do this, click ‘Optimal fills the specified area, even if the largest you will see an information screen
location’ 3 and select either Americas dimension exceeds it. Any parts of the showing the links you can use to share
or Asia to avoid any chance of the image that don’t fit within your specified the images with others. The addresses
VPN connecting you to another dimensions will be cropped out – so you in the Links Only box ( 1 in our
UK-based server. would lose the top and bottom portions screenshot below) directly load each
This isn’t a perfect solution, because of a portrait-orientation image, and image. However, there are two other
it means anyone in the UK who wants the left and right edges of a landscape- interesting options, which are the
to see the images you upload to Imgur orientation image. HTML-code 2 and BB-code boxes 3 .
will also need to use a VPN. A better way If you choose ‘resized’, Imgbox will HTML code embeds images in a
around the problem is to upload your shrink the image so its largest dimension webpage if you want to use the Imgbox-
images to an alternative service. This fits within the specified area instead. As hosted pictures on a website you’re
applies even if you don’t use forums this means the smallest dimension will building. You can sometimes use these
but want an easy way to share pictures also fit, nothing will be cropped away. codes in forum posts, too, though many
with others online. Thankfully, there are Next, decide whether or not you use what’s known as BB code instead –
several alternatives, three of which we’ll want to let viewers comment on your these are displayed in the third box. Note
look at here. Imgbox and Postimages offer images 3 . Then, from the Gallery Option that there is a ‘delete’ link at the bottom
a no-fuss upload service, while Flickr menu, specify whether you want it to 4 – save this somewhere in case you
provides more advanced features. create a gallery, which may be a good need to delete images.
Imgbox gives
Upload your images you links for
2 to Imgbox
Imgbox ([Link] is
your images
and HTML
refreshingly easy to use. Simply drag an code for
2 3 embedding
image you want to share from Windows them into
File Explorer into the browser window. 1 websites
Imgbox will upload it and present you
with a form, which you need to complete
before it can make the image public. It
works with JPEG, GIF and PNG images
of 10MB or less. The service says it
stores images for a “life time”, and there
are no limits, even if you don’t register. 4
However, it notes that you should always
keep backups of your files.

36 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Upload your photos to share publicly

How I share images

On the rare occasions I’ve needed to share images in an ad-hoc
manner, I’ve usually used Imgur, so I’ll have to use one of the
alternatives we’ve explored here for the time being. Thankfully,
most of my image sharing is work-based, which means I share
collections of screen grabs and other pictures, rather than one-off
You can specify when your images should shots. For these I tend to use traditional online storage.
disappear with Postimage Nik Rawlinson
How do you share images online?
Upload your images Please let us know: letters@[Link]
3 to Postimages
Postimages ([Link]
org) is a similar service to Imgbox.
However, while Imgbox hosts your
images for life by default, you can set
your uploads in Postimage to expire
between one hour and one year after 2
you upload them (see screenshot above).
Postimages offers both free and
premium accounts. If you use a free
account, anything you upload is
downscaled to 1280 pixels in the widest 1
dimension, and files must be no larger
than 32MB. Neither restriction should
pose a problem if you’re uploading
images to share on forums. If you pay
for a premium account, which starts
at $14.99 a month (about £11.14), you
can link to images at their original
resolution, and the maximum file size Flickr is a fully featured photo storage service that also lets you embed your images elsewhere
increases to 64MB.
Visit Postimages and, in the first menu, Upload your images £74 a year or £124 for two years, and
select whether your uploads should be
resized. The second menu lets you choose
4 to Flickr
Flickr ([Link]) was
allows unlimited photos, of which as
many as you want can be private.
when they should expire. Now click ‘Choose founded in 2004 as a traditional image- Pro users also won’t see ads.
images’ and in File Explorer select the sharing website. For the past 20 years If you’re only using the service to host
image you want to share. It will be uploaded or so, users have reportedly uploaded images you want to share on forums or
instantly, and a table of nine different several billion photos to the service, with friends and family, rather than as a
linking methods will appear, including either for viewing on Flickr itself or way to keep a permanent photo library,
HTML ( 1 in our screenshot below), forum embedding on other sites. the 1,000-image cap may be enough,
codes 2 and direct links 3 . The last link is Like Postimages, Flickr has options especially if you get into the habit of
the removal link 4 . Keep a note of this if for both free and paid accounts. Free- removing old photos.
you set your images not to expire, or if account holders can upload a maximum To link to an image you’ve uploaded to
you think you might want to delete them of 1,000 photos, only 50 of which can be Flickr, click the arrow icon beneath it
before the expiry time is reached. private. A Pro account costs £9 a month, ( 1 in our screenshot above). This shows
options for Share, Embed, Email and
Postimages
provides a wide BBCode 2 . Copy the address on the Share
selection of linking tab if you want to post it to social media.
options, plus a Switch to Embed if you want the HTML
removal link 2 code you’ll need to embed it on a website
you’re designing, and use the code on the
1
BBCode tab to post it to a forum.
3 The Email tab doesn’t provide a code,
but there are boxes for an email address
and message. Fill in each of these, then
4 click Share and Flickr will send the
recipient a thumbnail of the image and a
link to the original.

Next issue: Access cloud storage through File Explorer Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 37
 Workshop
Use webmail to record
your notes and reminders
What you need: Gmail or other webmail account
Time required: 20 minutes

I nstead of using an app or program

to take notes, try the drafts feature
in your webmail service. That way,
friend’s browser. It’s a beautifully
simple solution – and it’s free. We’ll
show you how to get started using
your reminders and notes are Gmail ([Link]) but the
accessible whether you’re sitting at principle is the same in other
your computer, out and about with webmail services, including
your phone, or logging in through a Outlook/Hotmail.

STEP Open Gmail and click Compose 1 . If

1 you’re using the Gmail app rather than

the browser, the button floats at the
bottom of the window. You can also achieve the
same thing using the iPhone/iPad’s default Mail
app by tapping the new message icon (pen in a 1
square) at the top right (iPad) or bottom right
(iPhone) of the screen. If your Gmail address
isn’t shown in the From line, tap that line and
select your Gmail account from the menu that
pops up.

2
1

Use the Subject line 1 to give the note a meaningful 2 3 4 5

STEP
2 title, then type the note into the body of the email 2 .
You can leave the Recipients line 3 blank as you won’t
actually be sending the message to anyone. The best thing about STEP If you want to emphasise any part of the note, click the
creating reminders, notes and tasks this way is that you can
attach any supporting documents, photos or other files, by
3 Formatting icon 1 to reveal the formatting toolbar 2 .
Here, you’ll find controls for bold, italic and underline
clicking the attachments icon 4 . This lets you keep everything 3 , as well as numbered and bulleted lists 4 . Click the down-
you may need to refer to in one place. pointing arrow 5 to reveal more formatting options.

38 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 1

STEP When you’ve finished typing your note,

4 click the close button (x) and it will be saved STEP Now, when you want to find a synchronised notes you’ve made, in
in the Drafts folder. If you’re using the
Android Gmail app, tap the left-pointing arrow 1
5 the browser version of Gmail tap the Drafts folder 1 on the left-
hand sidebar. You can find this on the iPhone/iPad Mail app by
instead. If you’re using the iPhone or iPad’s default tapping the left-pointing arrow in the top left of your inbox. This takes you
Mail app, when you tap the ‘x’ at the top of the app back to Mailboxes, then scroll down to Gmail and tap Drafts. On Android,
window it will ask if you want to Delete Draft or tap the three lines on the left of the search box at the top of the screen,
Save Draft. Tap ‘Save Draft’. followed by Drafts.

2
3

1 1

STEP Now, when you want to find your draft

7 notes separate from draft emails, click

Note in the Gmail sidebar or, in the
Gmail app, tap the three lines in the search box at
STEP You’ll notice that all your notes appear alongside any other draft the top of the message list, then tap Note 1 on

6 messages you’ve created, which can become cluttered over time. If

you’re using Gmail in your browser, you can apply labels to your
the menu that appears. You’ll notice in our Step 6
screenshot the option to ‘Nest label under’. If you
notes to make them easier to sort. Open the message and click the three dots want to create sub-categories, like notes for
bottom right 1 , hover over Label, click ‘Create new’ and call it Note 2 , then home, office or weekend, you can type these in
click Create 3 . You can’t add labels to unsent notes in the Gmail app or the the ‘Please enter a new label name’ field, then
iPhone/iPad Mail app. choose Note in the ‘Nest label under’ menu.

Next issue: Smart new ways to remotely access PCs Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 39
 Readers’ Tips
TIP OF THE FORTNIGHT

Change skip times in podcasts 3

1
Pocket Casts’ online player (www. Settings 2 . Now type the
[Link]/56647) deserved its place durations you want in the boxes
in Issue 721’s Cover Feature on stuff – I’ve gone for 120 seconds
that’s now free (page 50). But one thing forward and 30 seconds back 3 . 2
that flummoxed me for several weeks When you’ve made the change
was how to change the duration times the new figures will appear
4
when you skip forward and back. By in your playback controls at
default these are set at 45 seconds the bottom left 4 .
forward and 10 seconds back, which I also like the Intelligent
5
are too short for my liking. Playback Resumption option 5
To tweak these, click the top-right which resumes episodes a little back from back into an episode.
profile icon ( 1 in our screenshot) then where you left off. This nicely eases you Mike Sachs

Mike wins a copy of our 2024 Back Issue CD Buy it from us at [Link]/53433

SOFTWARE in our screenshot below left) and Undo 2 .

Rename masses of files in one go Recently, I found almost 2,000 JPEG
In Issue 719’s Problems Solved files in 60 folders on my computer. I
(page 67), you suggest using selected them all then dragged them to
Microsoft PowerToys ([Link]. the files window 3 in File Renamer, 1
com/55899) to rename hundreds of file where I could rename them quickly and
names in one go. A simpler solution is easily. It’s simply a brilliant product. 2
Winsome File Renamer (https:// Ian Thow
[Link]), which I’ve been using
for years. It costs $19.95 (about £15) for DESKTOP you don’t have to do this every time. My
one Windows computer and comes with Stop games adding shortcuts desktop is messy enough without
many options including Live Preview ( 1 I’ve rediscovered the pleasure of shortcuts for games cluttering it!
playing games on my PC after Kevin McNamara
downloading Google Play Games (www.
[Link]/56404, Issue 720, page 18). PASSWORDS
I love trying the different flight Store KeePass database
2 1 simulators, but one thing I recommend on your home network
when installing a game is to make sure I use KeePass ([Link]),
the game doesn’t add a shortcut to launch one of the password managers that
3 it from your desktop. This option appears didn’t make the cut in Issue 720’s Cover
when you click Install – just select ‘Don’t Feature. When I started to use KeePass it
add’ ( 1 in our screenshot above right) and annoyed me that it didn’t store your
tick ‘Remember for future games’ 2 so passwords online. This makes sharing

Why I stopped using…

Google Maps alternative to Google to detail.
There’s no single reason why I Maps on my OnePlus I’ve not seen a single advert nor been
abandoned Google Maps beyond Android phone until pestered by any nags to upgrade. My
a general drift away from Google’s I read about Organic only gripe is by default the text for
products because of the endless adverts Maps (https:// place names is a little small. I found a
and gathering of personal data. I had [Link]) in way to change this in Settings. Tap the
already switched from Gmail and Issue 720 (page 44). three horizontal lines (see screenshot)
Google Drive (to Proton Mail and You mentioned that then Settings and turn on the slider
Drive respectively). the latest update adds ‘Increase size for map labels’.
bus routes, and showing Graham Hodge
And what I use instead... whether there’s a bench Tell us why you stopped using a website, app
I hadn’t thought about using an or shelter shows an impressive attention or program: letters@[Link]

40 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Handy hints and tips from your fellow readers
Email us your tips: letters@[Link]

Reader recommends…
Obsbot Meet SE webcam
£79 from Amazon [Link]/54725

My family in Australia had been I’m somewhat past my

urging me to buy a decent prime so I wasn’t sure
your database with your devices more webcam to improve the quality of our whether to be pleased
difficult. However, I’m now glad I stayed weekly video chats. I therefore made a about this! I impressed
with KeePass for that very reason. It note of your five-star review of the them more when I used Obsbot’s tool
means I don’t have to worry about my Obsbot Meet SE in Issue 710 (page 26), for zooming into part of my screen.
password manager being hacked. and saw that it was good enough to The purchase has changed my family’s
What I’ve done is store my KeePass become your Buy It! webcam (see perception of me. They used to think I
database on a networked drive and page 32). was a bit of a luddite. But now they
blocked anyone from outside my home I snapped it up for £67 a few weeks take my purchase recommendations
network accessing it. I keep my various after your review, £12 cheaper than the seriously. About time!
PCs up to date using SyncBackFree full price. It has proved a bargain. My Robin Jones
([Link]/56645, pictured above). family couldn’t believe the difference it Want to recommend hardware or software
Storing the database this way means I can made. They said they could see me in to fellow readers?
update it from any of my devices when at more detail than ever before, though Email letters@[Link]
home and sync it with my other PCs. I
use a similar app for my Android devices.
You can also do this by connecting an folder (mine is called Temp) where I save A simple solution is to give each
external drive to the USB socket of your files I’m not going to need more than USB stick a single-digit label (‘A’,
router, if it has one. once. You can clear this regularly to stop for example) and keep a file elsewhere
Fraser Drummond the build-up of unwanted files. containing the contents of each. Using
Andy Hunt the numbers 0 to 9 and letters A to Z
DESKTOP will give labelling options for 10 plus 26,
Show just recycle bin USB which equals 36 drives. Two-character
and link to Shortcuts folder Attach sticks to key rings IDs would allow for 36 squared, which
In Issue 719’s Readers’ Tips Graham In Issue 719’s Letters Rod Grover is 1,296 options!
Dragon explained how he keeps his asks for ideas on labelling USB Alan Thomas
desktop organised by having only the sticks. I’ve been attaching keyring tags
recycle bin and two folders (‘Occasional to the hole that exists on most sticks PRINTING
Access Files’ and ‘Frequent Access Files’) (pictured below). You can order them Print Quicken files as PDFs
on it. I have an even cleaner desktop, from Amazon in packs of 10 for just over In Issue 720 (page 66) Jim
just sporting the recycle bin ( 1 in our £7 ([Link]/56643). Winnett wanted to know how he
screenshot below). On the taskbar I have Ken Ford can print from his old Quicken tool,
a link to File Explorer 2 , which contains which he has moved from Windows XP
a folder called Shortcuts that has links to to 11. I’ve been using Quicken since the
all the files I need to access regularly. 1980s and still use the last UK version,
Another useful tip is to have a temporary released in 2004.
Without knowing the exact problem
Jim has, may I suggest the following
option which has been working for me in
1 Windows 10 and now in Windows 11. It’s
ideal for printing the Quicken reports.
Within Quicken select File then Printer
Setup followed by ‘For Reports and
Graphs’. Now select ‘Microsoft Print to
PDF’ (or similar PDF printer installed)
and click OK.
When printing reports it will be saved
as a PDF that’s easily read on a PC, tablet
or smartphone. On my PC I save the file
in a Google Drive folder which can then
2 be opened and printed, or read on my
mobile devices using the Google Drive
app. It also works with Dropbox.
Nigel O’Coffey

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 41

 Browser Tips Secret settings and the best extensions

BRAVE
FIREFOX
Choose the correct
ad-blocking filters
Like AdGuard – see our Workshop
in Issue 721 (page 38) – Brave lets
Turn any website into a web app
you block more ads and other online Firefox 143 (released in September) Click the new ‘Add tab to taskbar’
annoyances by enabling extra filter lists. finally adds support for progressive icon at the end of the Firefox address
These boost the protection offered by web apps (PWAs), a feature long available bar – this looks like a down arrow
its Shields feature, provided you know in Chromium browsers such as Chrome, above a desktop (see screenshot) –
which filters to use. Edge and Brave. This lets you open to convert the current site into a web
Version 1.83 of the browser, released websites in simplified windows you app. This displays the site in a new
in early October, makes things easier by can pin to and run from the Windows window, without the browser’s
providing descriptions of its filter lists – taskbar – ie, outside of the main browser. toolbars and other clutter.
rather than just their names. To view Unlike Chromium browsers, Firefox It also creates a taskbar shortcut you
them, click Brave’s three-line menu can turn any website into a web app, can use to access the site even when
button and select Settings then Shields, not just those that support PWAs. Firefox is closed. To remove this
followed by ‘Content filtering’. Mozilla doesn’t use the term ‘PWA’, but shortcut, right-click it and choose
In the ‘Filter lists’ section, you’ll now the feature works in a similar way. ‘Unpin from taskbar’.
see descriptions of all available filters,
such as ‘EasyList Cookie – Removes
obtrusive cookie law notices’ (see
screenshot below). Select the filter lists
you want to use and they’ll be added
to Brave Shields.

OPERA
Skip videos and ads on YouTube
Opera 122, released in October,
introduces a handy Video Skip that feature to be turned on. However,
option. This jumps straight to the end of it’s still an experiment so it may not
the YouTube video you’re watching, so always work.
you can move on to the next clip in the
channel or playlist – or a related video if CHROMIUM
you have Autoplay enabled. Switch between search engines
That may not sound particularly exciting, Unlike
but the feature also has the benefit of Firefox,
skipping video ads, without waiting for Chromium browsers don’t let you switch
the Skip button to appear. Simply hover between different search engines without
your cursor and click the new Video Skip going into their settings and changing the
button (see screenshot below). default search provider. A new extension
Opera says Video Skip complements its called Snappi ([Link]/56419)
built-in ad blocker, and doesn’t require fixes this problem by letting you instantly
switch between search engines.
Click its toolbar button to choose from
options including Google, Bing and
DuckDuckGo (see screenshot above right), you may get an Enhance Safe Browsing
as well as Ask, which is surprisingly still warning, but just click ‘Continue to
going. Type a query into your address bar install’. Snappi is safe to use, though
and your browser will use your new requires permission to change your
search provider. search settings. Click ‘Keep it’ if Google
When you install Snappi in Chrome, warns about that too.

42 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

AI Tips Clever new tools and tweaks

COPILOT
META AI
Discover the new
‘home experience’
Microsoft has redesigned the
Copilot app for Windows 11 to
Transform videos using the new
provide a new ‘home experience’. This
resembles a personalised start page, with
Restyle tool
various modules and a photo background. Meta AI’s new Vibes
The modules include ‘Jump back feed ([Link]. 2
into your files’, which displays your com/56533), which lets
recent files so you can ask Copilot to you create, remix and
summarise or look up information about share AI videos in its
them. The ‘Get guided help with your mobile app, isn’t yet
apps’ module lets you select a Windows available in the UK. But
app, such as Settings, Edge or Paint, it has finally added video
then share your screen using Copilot editing to its web version
Vision to get help using it. ([Link]), four
1
The new home screen includes buttons months after it launched
for creating different types of image in the US.
(see screenshot below) – for example, This lets you ‘restyle’ clips of up to 10 longer than 10 seconds, you can trim it
photorealistic or watercolour. There’s seconds in length using dozens of fun to the desired segment. Click ‘Browse’
also a module showing your recent chat and artistic filters. These change the in the panel on the right ( 1 in our
history, so you can resume a conversation location, outfit and even the species screenshot) to explore the full range of
with Copilot. of the subject of your video, with filters, then select one and click Restyle.
options including 1800s, Starship and Meta AI will apply the filter to your
Illustration (pictured). clip – this takes a few minutes – and let
To get started, click the plus-sign you download and share the result. The
button below the message box, choose restyled videos are of excellent quality
‘Add media’ and upload a video. If it’s and you can also add music 2 .

left-hand menu of the

Gemini website. In the
My Gems section, click
the Share button next to
GEMINI the name of the gem (see
Share your Gems screenshot below), and
with other people enter the name or email
Gemini’s Gems feature lets you address of the person
create personalised chatbots for you want to share it with.
performing specific tasks – similar to Choose whether to make
custom GPTs in ChatGPT. It’s now them a Viewer or an Editor,
possible to share your ‘gems’ with then click Send. Your gem
friends, family and colleagues, to serve will then be added to their
as a communal resource for obtaining Gemini account. ChatGPT features they can use.
and generating relevant content. We explained how to use Gemini Gems To set up parental controls, click your
To do so, click Explore Gems in the in our Easy When You Know How section username in the bottom-left corner of
in Issue 712 (page 74). the ChatGPT website (the feature isn’t yet
available in the mobile apps) and choose
CHATGPT Settings, then ‘Parental controls’. Click
Set up parental ‘Add family member’ (see screenshot
controls above) to invite your teenage child to
As we reported in connect their ChatGPT account.
Issue 720 (page 9), Once they accept, you can manage
OpenAI now allows parents their account settings, by – for example –
to link their ChatGPT setting quiet times when ChatGPT can’t
accounts with those of their be used, turning off voice mode and
teenage children (minimum disabling image generation. You can’t
age 13). This protects young read their chats, but ChatGPT will
users from unsuitable notify you if it detects signs of “serious
content and limits which safety risk”.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 43

 Phone and Tablet Tips
ANDROID & iOS Tap ‘Choose’ and blog post, to simplify the
Translate foreign-language download the relevant article. In Vivaldi for iOS,
messages in WhatsApp language pack – you you can customise Reader
WhatsApp can now translate only need to do this the View’s colour, brightness,
messages you receive in certain first time you translate font style and text size –
foreign languages. This saves you copying that language. hopefully those options will
the text to a translation app such as Press ‘Continue’ then come to Android soon.
Google Translate to find out what it means. Translate ( 1 in our In the meantime,
The translation feature works with screenshot below left) – Vivaldi’s Android users can
messages in both individual and group the Android app has an try the browser’s new
chats. In WhatsApp for Android, you additional option feature for organising
can currently translate six languages – for translating all new bookmarks into folders.
including Spanish, Hindi and Portuguese messages in the chat 2 . When you add a page as a
– while the iOS app supports 19. WhatsApp will replace bookmark, by tapping the
To try the new option, long-press a the foreign text with its ‘V’ menu and choosing ‘Add
foreign language message, then tap the English translation and Page to’ then Bookmarks,
three-dot menu icon and select Translate. mark it as ‘Translated’. you can now specify a
To revert to the original language, long- folder to save it in.
press the message, tap the three-dot menu Press the Bookmarks link to open
icon and choose ‘Remove translation’. the ‘Edit bookmark’ screen, select the
default bookmarks location and tap New
ANDROID & iOS Bookmark Folder. Name the folder and
Simplify web pages with tap the tick icon. Future bookmarks will
Vivaldi’s Reader View be saved to this folder unless you choose
Vivaldi has updated its browser a different location.
for Android ([Link].
com/56622) and iOS ([Link]. ANDROID & iOS
com/56623), and – as usual – each app Exclude songs from
has different additions. The big new Spotify recommendations
2 feature in the iOS version is Reader View, Spotify has introduced the
which is already available on Android. useful option to exclude specific
This makes web pages easier to read songs from your ‘taste profile’. This
by removing all the clutter to focus on prevents the service from including those
the text and main images. Just tap the tracks in automatically generated playlists
1 Reader View icon in the address bar (see and using them as the basis for its
screenshot above) when viewing long recommendations of similar music.
passages of text such as a news story or When you’re playing a song you don’t

BEST NEW APPS What you should install this fortnight

Opera FreeStuffSpot Scream TV

Free Free Free
Android [Link]/56633 Android [Link]/56632 Android [Link]/56635
iOS [Link]/56634 This new app from the website of the same iOS [Link]/56636
Opera has brought ‘advanced’ tab name rounds up the latest free samples, Watch hundreds of horror films for free on
management to its iOS browser, two months giveaways and Scream TV’s new app. Browse categories
after it added it to competitions from including Monster,
Android. This lets you reputable brands. Supernatural and
view your open tabs Unusually for such Psychological, to play
in a list or grid, easily apps, it’s not stuffed an eclectic mix of
sort them into groups with ads, though movies. These include
and – in the iPad some promotions classics such as
version – create ‘tab involve completing Peeping Tom and The
islands’ (customisable surveys. At the Stepford Wives, and
strips of tabs). You can time of writing, the recent, gorier fare. You
also search the titles freebies included can also watch Scream
of tabs to find the toothpaste, cat food TV on Freeview on
page you want. and 2026 calendars. channel 271.

44 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Brilliant things to do on your device

shot is displayed as a full-screen preview,

which you can edit and annotate before
want to skew your manually saving it.
Spotify listening On devices that support Apple’s
experience, tap the Visual Intelligence feature, which is part
three-dot icon in of the broader Apple Intelligence AI
the top-right system, these full-screen previews let you
corner. Select analyse the content of your screenshots
‘Exclude track and look up information about specific
from your taste elements. But many iPhone and iPad
profile’ (see users prefer the old, less obtrusive way of
screenshot right) previewing screenshots, and find the
– you can still enjoy it in the moment, but change more annoying than useful.
it won’t influence future recommendations. Thankfully, it’s possible to disable
The new option is available to both Free full-screen previews and return to the Capture. Switch off the option Full-
and Premium users across Spotify’s previous method. To do so, open the Screen Previews (see screenshot above)
mobile, desktop and web apps. Settings app and tap General then Screen and they won’t bother you again.

ANDROID & iOS

Customise Outlook’s BEST APPS FOR... Snack lovers
actions toolbar
Microsoft has made a welcome Yuka
improvement to its Outlook app Free*
for Android ([Link]/56626) Android [Link]/56637
and iOS ([Link]/56627). It iOS [Link]/56638
has moved the actions toolbar, which Yuka helps you find healthier snacks. It scans
contains shortcuts for replying to and the barcodes of food products to summarise
deleting emails, as well as marking them their negative effects on your health – such as
as unread, to a more convenient position containing lots of additives, sugar and saturates
at the bottom of the screen. – and their positive impact, including the amount
What’s more, you can now customise of protein and fibre. It then recommends more
the toolbar to nutritious alternatives.
include other Best For Avoiding unhealthy snacks
actions of your
choice. Tap the Sidekick
three-dot icon Free*
and choose Android [Link]/56639
Reorder then iOS [Link]/56640
drag the If you prefer to prepare your own snacks,
shortcuts you Sidekick offers loads of simple, tasty recipes,
want to add to the based on the ingredients and time you have
Pinned section available, and your preferred cuisines – including
of the list (see British. Add three quick meals to your weekly
screenshot left). plan to create a shopping list and see the
Options include equipment you’ll need to make them. Pay £6 a
Snooze, Block Sender and Forward. You month to unlock all recipes.
can remove existing actions to avoid the Best For Creating your own snacks
toolbar becoming overcrowded.
Eat Crisps
iOS Free
Disable full-screen previews Android [Link]/56641
for screenshots iOS [Link]/56642
One of the most notable changes in This new app for crisp lovers invites you to share
iOS and iPadOS 26 is to the built-in your favourite brands and varieties, and rate
screenshot feature. Previously, when you them for flavour and texture. Browse a feed of
took a screenshot on your iPhone or other users’ choices to discover new crisps from
iPad, the captured image appeared as a around the UK and read their reviews. The Eat
thumbnail in the corner of your screen. Crisps leaderboard is currently topped by the
This disappeared after a few seconds, Co-op’s Sea Salt & Chardonnay Wine Vinegar.
with the screenshot automatically saved Best For Crisp connoisseurs
to the Photos app. In iOS/iPadOS 26, the
*Contains in-app purchases

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 45

 Make Windows Better Expert tips for every version

WINDOWS 11
WINDOWS 11
Use the opacity slider in
Microsoft Paint
Microsoft has added an opacity
slider to Paint, letting you change
Annotate screenshots before saving
the transparency of strokes made You can now edit and
with the Pencil ( 1 in our screenshot annotate screenshots 3 4
below) and Brush 2 tools. Click either taken in Snipping
and the opacity slider appears on the Tool before saving them. Press
left side of the canvas 3 . The slider above Windows key+Shift+S to open
it is Size, for changing the width of the Snipping Tool, then click the
brush/pencil stroke. ‘Quick mark-up’ icon at the top 2 5
so it turns blue (see screenshot
below). If you don’t see this,
press Ctrl+E. Now drag your
1
cursor as usual to set the You can change their thickness in
screenshot area and a row of editing the Outline menu.
1
2 options will appear at the bottom ( 1 in In our example we’ve used a yellow
our screenshot above right), including highlighter 2 , red ellipse 3 and arrow
shapes (which also contains emojis) 4 and purple tick 5 from the emoji
3 and pens (ballpoint and highlighter). options. Click ‘Capture’ to save.

WINDOWS 10 & 11
Set start and end times
for light and dark mode
PowerToys 0.95, released
on 15 October, adds the installed, you’ll be prompted to update to means PCs, laptops and routers show
Light Switch tool for version 0.95 when you next open it. If up easily, but anything in low-power
automatically switching your computer you don’t have it installed, download it mode, like smart speakers, TVs, printers
between light and dark mode. from [Link]/56718. and phones not using Wi‑Fi, can go
Launch PowerToys then click System undetected.
Tools in the menu on the left, followed by WINDOWS 10 & 11 NirSoft’s new tool LANIPScanner
Light Switch. Make sure the ‘Enable Light See every device connected (pictured below) goes further by using
Switch’ slider is on ( 1 in our screenshot to your home network more methods at once. It still checks
below), then leave Manual selected in the NirSoft already has ARP and NetBIOS, but adds ping
Mode dropdown menu 2 and set times tools for seeing which (asks devices to reply); mDNS (used by
for dark mode to be turned on and off 3 . devices are connected Apple devices and some smart gadgets
Alternatively, switch Manual to ‘Sunset to to your network, including Wireless to announce themselves); and SSDP
sunrise’ and it’ll activate dark mode when Network Watcher ([Link]. (common for smart TVs and media
the sun sets, automatically changing the com/56720), but they mostly only find devices). In other words, it shows every
time throughout the winter and beyond. devices that actively respond to certain device on your network, giving you
You can also choose whether Light methods, like ARP and NetBIOS. more chance of spotting those from
Switch will apply to your whole system ARP matches IP addresses to neighbours piggybacking on your Wi-Fi.
(including taskbar and Start menu) 4 physical devices on your network, To install it, visit [Link]/56719
or only programs that support it 5 . while NetBIOS is an older Windows then scroll down to the Feedback section
If you’ve already got PowerToys method for identifying computers. That and click the download link.

1
3

5 4

46 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

Make Office Better Top tips for the best office programs

ONLYOFFICE

Redact words in PDFs

Version 9.1 of OnlyOffice, 2
released in October, lets you
redact sensitive information in 4
PDFs. First, update to 9.1 by clicking
About at the bottom left of OnlyOffice’s
main page followed by ‘Check for
updates’. Install any that appear.
Next, open a PDF in OnlyOffice’s
PDF Editor then click Edit PDF ( 1 in
our screenshot). Now click Redact 2 1 3
at the top followed by ‘Mark for 5
Redaction’ 3 . Highlight the text you
want to be redacted then click Apply
Redactions 4 . A black bar will appear
across the text 5 . There are also options
for redacting entire pages and for
finding specific words to redact.

2 2

1 3

3
4

1
[Link]/56700 and click ‘Download words and only part of the next word.
LIBREOFFICE CALC & latest’. Now open the file and it should For example, we want to highlight ‘My
MICROSOFT EXCEL appear highlighted in LibreOffice’s name is Chris’ from ‘My name is
Place same data in the same Extensions box. Click ‘Add’, Tools, Christopher’. To do this, click File top left
cell across spreadsheets Extensions, then highlight ODF2PDF and then Options at the bottom followed by
You can quickly place the click Add. Install the file it takes you to, Advanced on the left ( 1 in our screenshot
same data in the same then restart LibreOffice. below). In the ‘Editing options’ section
cell across multiple Now click the ‘Batch export to PDF’ untick ‘When selecting, automatically
spreadsheets, saving you loads of time. icon top left ( 1 in our screenshot above) select entire word’ 2 . Click OK to confirm.
First, select all the spreadsheets you want and tick the boxes to indicate the file types We can now click and drag our cursor
to use by holding down Ctrl and clicking you’re saving 2 . Now select the source over the words so it stops after ‘Chris’ 3
each tab at the bottom. In our screenshot folder (where your ODF files are 3 ) and – or indeed at any point in any word.
above we’ve selected sheets 1 to 5 1 . Notice the destination folder (where you want Before applying this setting Word would
that these have been called a ‘Group’ in the them to be saved as PDFs 4 ). Finally click highlight every word as soon as the
workbook’s title 2 . Now type anything Next followed by Export. cursor moved over the first letter.
into cells 3 and it’ll be repeated in the
other grouped spreadsheets. MICROSOFT WORD
Select only parts of words 3
LIBREOFFICE By default, Microsoft Word tries 1
Convert batch of ODF to highlight entire words when
files to PDF you click and drag your cursor
The LibreOffice extension ODF2PDF over them. This is fine if you need to copy,
makes it easier to convert a batch cut or delete the whole words, but it’s 2
of ODF files into PDFs. Visit www. frustrating if you want to just select some

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 47

 In The Club
Run a club or society? Here's how your tech can make it easier

Schedule group calls in WhatsApp

3
1
2
1
1

3
2

Members can add the meeting to their

Type a name and description, set a time and The meeting event will appear in your messages calendar, while you can copy a link to the
date, then choose video or voice call – tap the calendar icon to see its details meeting to send to others

I
n August, WhatsApp added the option choose ‘Remove end time’ if you don’t Another new option in WhatsApp lets
to schedule audio and video calls, need one. Next, tap ‘Call type’ 3 and call participants tap the ‘Raise hand’
giving club members time to place select Video or Voice (audio). Now tap the button ( 1 in our screenshot below) to
them in a calendar so they don’t forget. green send button and choose who you indicate they want to speak 2 .
You can send invites to individuals, or to want to invite. You can select any group
groups and communities you’ve created. or community you’ve created.
All participants will be notified when the
call is about to begin, and during the call Add the meeting to your calendar
you’ll be notified when someone joins. Tap the send button again, at the
bottom right, and the meeting will 2
Set a time and date appear in the message you share with
Open WhatsApp on your phone or tablet the people you invited ( 1 in our screenshot
and tap Calls at the bottom right. Now tap above). The ‘Edit event’ button 2 lets
the green ‘+’ button (with a phone icon you make changes, including the option
inside), then tap ‘Schedule call’. By default, to cancel. Tap the message itself and
it will be called ‘Yourname’s call’ – tap you’ll see who’s going and who hasn’t
this to change it (‘Xmas Quiz’ in our responded yet. Tap the calendar icon in
screenshot above 1 ). You can also add a the message 3 and you’ll see details of
description underneath 2 . the meeting.
That day’s date will be default. Tap this This includes an option to add the
to pick another one on the calendar. Now meeting to your calendar ( 1 in our
tap the time to move the clock face to screenshot above right) – you should
when the meeting is due to begin. If encourage your club members to do this.
that’s too fiddly, tap the keyboard icon at The calendar that appears will be the one
the bottom left to type a time instead. that’s set to open by default on the device
1
Leave the second date as it is – assuming – normally Google or Apple Calendar.
the meeting ends on the same day. But There’s also an option to copy the link to
tap the time to the right and set an end the meeting 2 , to include in emails and Call participants can ‘raise their hand’ to
time for the meeting. Alternatively messages in other apps. indicate they want to speak

48 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722 Next issue: Collaborate for free in OnlyOffice
What’s All the
Fuss About...
Gold in your PC
There’s a fortune in Windows 10 machines, but you won’t see any of it
What is it?
There’s gold in them there computers! UK
electrical-waste specialists BusinessWaste
([Link]/56681) estimates there
could be a whopping £1.8 billion worth
of gold and other precious materials
hidden inside UK computers that have
been rendered obsolete by Microsoft
axing support for Windows 10.

What’s gold used for in

computers?
Along with silver it coats the connectors
and chips on printed circuit boards,
including RAM (see main picture),
motherboards and graphics cards, as it
resists corrosion and improves data
transfer. Palladium and platinum also
appear in capacitors and solder, while
copper runs through almost every wire
and circuit. Even your hard drive contains estimates at 14.4 million. It then uses Windows 10 was installed on a billion
rare-earth metals such as neodymium data relating to metal-recovery rates PCs back in its 2020 heyday (www.
in its magnets, while older solder often from India-based electronic recycling [Link]/56683), but it may have
includes silver. specialist E-Parisaraa, to calculate the been exaggerating. Also, many Windows
amount of each precious metal contained 10 users will continue to use their
So, I’m gonna be rich? in that many PCs, including an estimated computers, either by upgrading to
Afraid not. That £1.8 billion figure 12,750,000kg of copper, 18,730kg of Windows 11 or switching to an alternative
represents a theoretical total value of the gold, 30,130kg of silver and 6,240kg of operating system, such as Linux and
precious materials contained in all the other precious metals. Multiplying these ChromeOS.
computers in the UK that don’t meet weights by the current market value of All of which means the true number
Microsoft’s system requirements for each metal gives you the £1.8 billion of devices left stranded by Microsoft’s
Windows 11. An individual PC, for figure. strict hardware requirements could be
example, might contain as little as 0.2g significantly lower than 400 million. But
of gold – that’s less than £20 at today’s And how do they know how whatever the true figure, Windows 10’s
trading prices. many PCs still run W10? demise will still generate a lot of e-waste.
Good point. BusinessWaste claims that
How did they come to “400 million devices are expected to Is there any way of salvaging
that figure? be affected globally” without really those metals?
BusinessWaste’s calculations appear to be explaining how it reached this figure. Yes, but it’s not as simple as cracking
based on the total number of Windows 10 Digging into this a little, we can see that open your old PC and melting down
computers in the UK that could be in line analysts Statcounter reckons Windows 10 the parts. The gold, silver and copper
for the scrapheap, which the company still accounted for just over 40 per cent of inside can only be recovered safely by
the worldwide Windows market share licensed Waste Electrical and Electronic
in September 2025 ([Link]. Equipment (WEEE) recyclers, who use
com/56682). If you apply that share to an specialised chemical and mechanical
estimated global installed base of around processes to extract them without
one billion PCs, you end up with roughly releasing toxins. You can see this
400 million machines still running demonstrated at [Link]/56752
Windows 10, which is probably how (pictured left).
BusinessWaste arrived at its number.
Shall I bother?
Don’t try this at home: you need specialist Is that an accurate figure? No. It’d be easier to extract gold teeth
equipment to extract gold from your PC Hard to know. Microsoft claimed with a nutcracker.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 49

 COVER FEATURE

BIN YOUR
SIM CARD
Physical SIM cards
are fiddly to insert,
restrictive to use
and susceptible
to theft. Robert
Irvine explains why
switching your phone
to an eSIM is easier,
cheaper and smarter

T
he SIM is an essential element of technology gives you a more convenient phone number, authentication keys and
any mobile phone, letting you and flexible way to connect to a mobile network settings, which is the same
make calls, send texts and – on network. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a data stored on a physical SIM card.
smartphones – access the internet. small chip soldered directly on to the Unlike a traditional SIM, the eSIM
Over the years, the size of SIM cards has motherboard of your phone. can be reprogrammed with new
shrunk to mini, then micro then nano, Although the chip is physical, the eSIM network information, so you don’t
but you can now avoid using one at all. works digitally by downloading and storing need to remove it to change provider
The growing popularity of eSIM your network profile. This contains your or plan. The technology is standardised
by the GSM Association (GSMA, www.
[Link]), which ensures only
WHAT YOU CAN DO companies with GSMA-certified servers
can send eSIM profiles to your phone.
• Check if your phone is compatible •P
 ay less for internet access when you’re In this feature, we explore the
with eSIMs on overseas trips benefits of ditching your SIM card for
• Switch to a new mobile network in •C
 onvert your physical SIM card into an an eSIM and explain how to do so. We
a few minutes eSIM also reveal which devices and mobile
• Find the cheapest deals on eSIM •T
 ransfer your phone number to an eSIM networks now support eSIMs, and
mobile plans in a new phone why you should use a travel eSIM on
your next holiday.

50 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 BIN YOUR
SIM CARD
WHY YOU SHOULD SWITCH TO AN eSIM
Faster to set up than eSIMs spare
physical SIMs you the fiddly
business of
When you order a new or replacement swapping
SIM card from a mobile network, you physical SIM
have to wait a day or two for it to arrive. cards
You then need to remove the old SIM
from your phone and insert the new one.
This can prove fiddly if you can’t get the
card tray to pop out using a SIM-eject tool
(see photo right) or paperclip, or if you
drop the tiny nano SIM in the process.
With eSIMs there’s no waiting time or
physical card to insert. You simply scan a
QR code with your phone’s camera, enter
details manually or use your network
provider’s app, to activate your new Save money on roaming fees phone, they can’t be removed and used in
mobile plan in minutes. The other reason travellers love eSIMs is another device, and are encrypted to
We provide full instructions for that it cuts the cost of using the internet stop them being extracted or cloned.
setting up an eSIM on page 56, whether while abroad. As we explained in our Additionally, eSIMs can’t be deleted or
you’re requesting a new one from a ‘Don’t pay for mobile roaming’ feature replaced without your authorisation,
mobile provider or want to convert your in Issue 712 (page 60), the roaming so thieves can’t resell the stolen phone.
existing SIM. policies of UK mobile networks can be See page 57 for more on this.
expensive and confusing – especially
Switch between when travelling outside Europe - and You may soon need one
multiple networks typically require buying a travel add-on for a new phone
Although dual-SIM phones let you insert or pass. For example, an O2 Travel As we reported in Issue 719 (page 10),
two SIM cards to switch between two ‘bolt on’ (pictured below left) costs £7 a Apple’s new iPhone Air (pictured below),
phone numbers, eSIMs offer much day. If you exceed your data allowance, which went on sale in September, is the
greater flexibility and convenience. you’ll face a hefty bill when you return first phone from a major manufacturer
Because an eSIM is digital, you can store from your holiday. to be sold globally without a SIM-card
multiple eSIM profiles on your phones – With a dedicated travel eSIM, you can slot (US models of the iPhone 14 and
up to eight on many devices. buy a cheap data-only plan before you newer are eSIM-only). This gives you
These can all use different networks go abroad, and avoid paying any roaming no choice but to use an eSIM, because
with different numbers, which you can charges for the duration of your trip. We you simply won’t be able to insert a
switch between as required – though only explain more about travel eSIMs on page 55. physical SIM.
one eSIM number can be active at a time. Apple says removing the SIM-card
If you own a dual-SIM phone, you can Protect your number slot from the iPhone Air “saves space
use an eSIM in tandem with a standard from thieves internally, helping enable the unbelievably
SIM, and have two active numbers with If your phone is lost or stolen, its contents light and thin form factor”. It also creates
separate data and calling plans. may be protected by your PIN or a space for a bigger battery, so the phone
That’s one reason eSIMs have become biometric lock, but the SIM card can be will last longer between charges.
so popular with travellers, allowing them easily removed and inserted in another While it’s unlikely that other
to use mobile internet abroad while phone. This allows thieves to use your manufacturers will fully abandon SIM
keeping their home number – and all number for malicious purposes, until cards for another few years, eSIM-only
without having to swap SIMs. you get your network to block the SIM. phones could eventually become the
Physical SIM cards are also vulnerable to standard. In the meantime, an increasing
SIM-swapping attacks, whereby criminals number of phones now support both
transfer your number to a new SIM. connection methods, which we’ll look at
Because eSIMs are embedded in your on page 52.

The ultra-thin iPhone Air is

A travel eSIM will help you avoid paying high the first mainstream phone
prices for data roaming when abroad without a SIM slot

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025

 WHICH DEVICES NOW SUPPORT eSIMs?
Smartphones
The Google Pixel 2, released in September
2017, was the first smartphone with a
built-in eSIM chip, though this was
limited to US users on the Google Fi
network. Since then, all Pixel phones –
from 3 to 10 – have offered dual eSIM and
nano-SIM support, including in the UK.
However, it was the launch of Apple’s
iPhone XS and XR in September 2018
that kicked off the eSIM revolution, and
all subsequent iPhones have included
eSIMs. The iPhone 14 (from 2022) was
the first to be eSIM-only in the US, The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active5 tablet Some new Microsoft Surface laptops connect
and the new iPhone Air extends that supports eSIMs to 5G using an eSIM
around the world.
Samsung introduced eSIMs to its phone ([Link]/56673); and the Sony now use eSIMs as well as traditional SIM
range with the launch of the Galaxy S20 Xperia 10 VI for £349 ([Link]. cards. Microsoft’s Surface range is the
in 2020, and all its ‘flagship’ (high-end) com/56674). You can browse a full list most notable example – its new Copilot+
models since then have included them. of eSIM-compatible handsets at www. Surface Pro laptop (pictured above) has
Many budget and [Link]/56676. dual eSIM and nano SIM support, but
mid-range Samsung To check whether your current phone only its 5G, 13in model (£1,029 from
phones, such as supports eSIMs, open the Phone app and [Link]/56680).
M-series and older FE dial *#06#. A pop-up panel will open Laptops with eSIMs are currently
models, don’t have showing device information – if you see aimed at business users rather than
eSIM chips. But the new an EID (Embedded Identity Document) consumers, with prices to match. These
Galaxy A36 and A56 5G serial number (see screenshot below left), include Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 series,
– released in March, then your phone has an eSIM chip. priced from £1,600 ([Link].
priced £399 and £499 com/56686), and the Dell Latitude 7450,
respectively – do. Tablets which costs nearly £1,900 with the
Happily, you don’t Although most tablets connect to the required modem ([Link]/56685).
need to spend a internet over Wi-Fi, some models also Hopefully, prices will come down as
fortune to get an eSIM have SIM-card slots that let you use a 4G eSIM technology becomes more popular.
smartphone. Dozens of or 5G mobile network. These slots are
budget and mid-range now being replaced or complemented Smartwatches
Motorola devices now by eSIM chips, making it even easier to An eSIM in a smartwatch helps keep the
The Moto G35 support eSIMs, including get online when Wi-Fi isn’t available. design slim and light, and allows the
5G is currently its latest G3x and G5x Unsurprisingly, Apple was the first wearable to work independently of your
the cheapest company to add eSIM support to its smartphone. This means you can make
models. The cheapest
phone with
eSIM support is the Moto G35 5G tablets, and all new ‘Wi-Fi + Cellular’ and take calls, send and receive messages,
(pictured above left), iPads since 2019 have eSIM chips – and access apps such as maps and music
which costs just under £100 (www. including Pro, Air and Mini models. streaming, without having your phone
[Link]/56670). Apple’s newest devices, including the to hand.
Other mid-range phones with dual iPad Pro (8th Gen) that went on sale in The Apple Watch Series 10 and 11
eSIM and nano-SIM support include October ([Link]/56677), are support eSIMs, as do the Samsung Galaxy
Oppo’s Reno13 5G series, priced from eSIM-only and “not compatible with Watch 8 and Ultra, and the Google Pixel
£329 ([Link]/56672); the physical SIM cards”. Watch 3 ([Link]/56687,
Nothing (3a) Pro, which costs £394 Samsung’s latest Galaxy Tab tablets pictured below). Just make sure
support eSIMs as well as nano SIMs, you choose the model
including the S9, S10 and new S11 series, with 4G or 5G
and the Galaxy Tab Active5 ([Link]. (sometimes called
com/56679, pictured above). See www. LTE or Cellular),
[Link]/56678 for the full list of eSIM- though note
compatible Samsung devices. Other this will bump
tablet manufacturers have yet to catch up, up the price.
at least with their devices sold in the UK.

Laptops A smartwatch with

an eSIM works
If your phone has an EID number then it has a As with tablets, some laptops offer both independently of
built-in eSIM mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity, and can your phone

52 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 BIN YOUR
SIM CARD
WHICH UK NETWORKS SUPPORT eSIMS?
All the major UK mobile providers - Quickly find the
EE, O2, Three and Vodafone - now best eSIM deals
using a price-
support eSIMs. You can either convert comparison site
your current SIM into an eSIM, or get such as SIM Only
one with a new SIM-only plan and add Finder
it to your phone.
The networks also offer eSIMs when
you sign up for a pay-monthly contract
for a compatible phone. Most of the
pricier phones we mentioned on the
previous page are available through
mobile networks, which will cut the
cost of buying them outright (though
you’re likely to pay more over the course
of your contract).
With Vodafone, for example, if you
choose a phone with an eSIM such as the
Samsung Galaxy S25 FE, iPhone 17 or
Motorola Moto G35, the eSIM option will
be pre-selected at checkout (see screenshot That leaves 1pMobile, which says it will
below). Unless you choose ‘SIM card’ “hopefully offer them in the next few
instead, you won’t receive a physical SIM months”, and Asda Mobile.
with your new phone, so all you need to To get an eSIM from an MVNO, simply
do is activate your eSIM. sign up for a pay-as-you-go, rolling or
Vodafone and Three also provide pay-monthly (contract) plan, and select
eSIMs without a contract, through their eSIM as the SIM type. If you don’t see that
SIM-only pay-as-you-go plans. Again, Smarty has finally introduced eSIMs - but option, order a standard SIM and convert
just select the eSIM option at checkout. only for existing customers it to an eSIM later. Some MVNOs let you
The network will send you an email bundle your eSIM with a compatible
containing the QR code required for networks of the big four providers phone, but – unlike the big providers
activation, so you can switch to the new (technically three since Vodafone and – they don’t have high-street shops you
plan in a matter of minutes – without Three merged), now support eSIMs. These can go to if you have any problems. The
waiting for a SIM to arrive in the post. low-cost services include Giffgaff, Sky exceptions are Tesco Mobile, which offers
To swap your existing SIM card for an Mobile and Tesco Mobile (which use the in-store support, and iD Mobile, which is
eSIM, you’ll need to go through your O2 network); ID Mobile, Honest Mobile partnered with Currys PC World.
online account with the relevant provider and Voxi (VodafoneThree); and Lyca
– or pop into one of the network’s Mobile, Mozillion and Spusu (EE). Compare the latest eSIM deals
high-street stores. We’ll provide more Smarty finally introduced eSIM support Because eSIMs are now available with all
detailed instructions on page 56. in September (see screenshot above), but SIM-only contracts from the main UK
only for existing customers – new ones networks, and most plans from MVNOs,
Get an eSIM from a virtual will be able to order eSIMs soon (www. comparing all available deals would take
mobile network [Link]/56690). And Lebara is rolling all day. To make things easier, visit a
Most UK MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network out eSIMs in a ‘phased manner’, initially price-comparison site such as SIM Only
Operators), which ‘piggyback’ on the to new customers with an iPhone Air. Finder ([Link]) or
GoCompare’s SIM-Only Deals section
([Link]/56692).
These let you specify how much data
you need per month, your preferred
contract length and the maximum
amount you’re willing to pay. They then
filter their results to show matching
plans, so you can click through to buy the
most suitable. SIM Only Finder has the
useful option to show eSIM deals only
(see screenshot above).
These websites don’t cover deals from
every network, only their partners, but
they include the four main providers and
around a dozen MVNOs. It certainly saves
Choose ‘eSIM’ when you sign up for a new phone or SIM-only contract you time visiting multiple sites individually.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 53

 READER OFFER! ADD A
DISC FOR
£5.95

Upgrade to Windows 11
Pro for just £49.99!
Your PC almost certainly came with Windows 11 Home. But did
you know it’s easy to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro to get advanced
features like BitLocker drive encryption?
There’s no need to install a new version of Windows – just take
your new Professional key, go to System, Activate, then select
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To upgrade, visit [Link]/50563
and click the red Buy Now button on the right.

JUST SO YOU KNOW…

This offer can be used by one person only, and
expires at midnight on 18 November, 2025.
It’s a lifetime licence for one computer.
 BIN YOUR
SIM CARD
WHY YOU NEED A TRAVEL eSIM
The eSIMs from UK mobile networks Firsty’s Free plan
and MVNOs are designed to replace provides unlimited
data - albeit with a
your physical SIM as your means of couple of catches
making calls, sending messages and
accessing the internet. Travel eSIMs, in
contrast, work alongside your current
SIM or eSIM and are intended for
short-term use when you go abroad.
They give you a tailored data plan for
whatever country you’re travelling to and
connect you to local 4G and 5G networks.
Choose the amount of data you’ll need,
and how long the travel eSIM will work
for – from a few days to a whole month –
to cover the duration of your trip. also offers unlimited data for dozens of BEST FOR CALLS
With most providers of travel eSIMs, destinations ([Link]/56699, Airhub
you install the eSIM on your phone before see screenshot below left). [Link]
you depart, then activate it on your You can manage your travel eSIM Airhub offers ‘Data & Voice’ plans for
arrival. You can top up your data as through Airalo’s highly rated mobile app, all its travel eSIMs, spanning over 190
required and use the eSIM next time you and top up your data when necessary. countries. These assign you a local
travel by adding a new plan. Airalo’s prices are impressively low number for that destination, so you
Not only does a travel eSIM save you (though provided in Euros), and it’s been can make and receive calls, and send
money on roaming add-ons and fees, but operating since 2019, with more than text messages.
it ensures you enjoy speedy, reliable 10 million users worldwide. There are several options to choose
internet access wherever you go in your from for many countries, depending on
destination – often faster than at home. BEST FOR VALUE how much data and how many minutes
It also means you can avoid using often easySIM you’ll need. Airhub’s US prices are
slow and sometimes dangerous Wi-Fi [Link] particularly cheap, starting from $3.49
hotspots while you’re on holiday. Although easySIM can’t compare with (£2.60) for unlimited data, calls and
Most travel eSIMs are data-only, which Airalo for choice of destinations, its travel texts for one-day use. But expect to pay
makes them easy to set up and means eSIMs for many countries are often from $30 (£22) for other regions.
you don’t need to be assigned a local cheaper in terms of gigabytes per pound.
phone number or worry about For example, a United States plan that BEST FOR CRUISES
international calling charges. If you need gives you 10GB of data for 30 days costs GigSky
to call and message people back home, just £16, compared with €20.50 (£18) [Link]
you can use WhatsApp to do so over the from Airalo. Seven-day eSIMs for many GigSky travel eSIMs save you paying for
local mobile network. Here are the best European locations are priced as low as an expensive Wi-Fi package on your
services for different travel needs. £2.99 for 1GB of data. cruise. They use maritime satellite
Owned by the company behind easyJet, networks on more than 200 cruise ships
BEST FOR CHOICE easySIM is – aptly – easy to use, though it – simply specify which line you’ll be
Airalo doesn’t have a mobile app. sailing on – to deliver reliable internet
[Link] on the open sea.
Airalo offers travel eSIMs for more than BEST FREE OPTION GigSky’s ‘Cruise+Land’ data plans
200 locations, and lets you choose Firsty (see screenshot below) also cover your
between local, regional and global [Link] excursions in ports, by connecting to
coverage (the Global option includes calls If you don’t want to pay for a travel eSIM, local mobile networks. But note they’re
and texts). Its data plans range from 1GB Firsty has a completely free, unlimited- much pricier than other travel eSIMs –
for three days to 50GB for 30 days, and it data plan (see screenshot above) that for example, $35 (£26) for 1GB on a
covers Europe, North America and the seven-day European cruise.
Asia-Pacific region. However, there are
two catches: connection speeds are very
slow and you need to watch 30-second
ads every 60 minutes.
Beat those restrictions by upgrading to
its high-speed Comfort+ plan, priced
from €1 per day, or its extra-high speed
First Class plan, which costs from €2 per
day and lets you use your phone as a
Airalo offers a huge choice of travel eSIMs, hotspot. Everything is controlled GigSky’s travel eSIMs provide internet access
including unlimited-data plans through the Firsty app. at sea and on land

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 55

 HOW TO SWITCH FROM YOUR CURRENT SIM
Set up a new eSIM on your phone Settings then Connections and select receive an email containing a QR code
Provided your phone has an eSIM chip, ‘SIM manager’. Tap ‘Add eSIM’ followed and activation instructions. Scan the QR
switching to an eSIM is very straightforward. by ‘Scan QR code’. code and tap ‘Set up’, then enter the
First, sign up for an eSIM plan with a mobile On an iPhone, simply go to Settings confirmation code provided.
network, as we explained on page 53. then ‘Mobile data’ and choose ‘Add eSIM’. Your eSIM will now be activated – go
You’ll be given a QR code to install Either scan the QR code or manually to Settings then ‘Network & Internet’ or
the eSIM with – this is usually sent by enter the details provided by the mobile Connections, and tap ‘SIMs & mobile
email. You should view this code in your network. network’ (or similar) to switch it on. You
desktop browser, because you’ll need to should be prompted to make it your
scan it with your phone’s camera. Convert your current SIM default for calls, messages and internet.
On Android phones, the steps for to an eSIM To confirm the eSIM works, turn off
activating eSIMs vary according to the Rather than start a new mobile plan, you Wi-Fi and try making a call or sending
device. We used the following method can convert your physical SIM card to an a text.
on our Motorola Moto G54, which runs eSIM, and transfer your phone number On an iPhone, converting your old
Android 15 - check your phone and current plan. Doing so will deactivate SIM is much easier. Just open Settings,
manufacturer’s support site for your old SIM, meaning you won’t be able select Mobile Service and tap ‘Convert
instructions for your device. to use it again – though you can order a to eSIM’.
Open the Settings app and tap ‘Network replacement from your provider.
& Internet’ then ‘SIMs & mobile network’. To switch to an eSIM on an Android Transfer your eSIM
Press ‘Download new SIM’ then ‘Set up phone, log into your online account to a new phone
an eSIM’ (see screenshot below) and scan with your mobile network – either Another advantage of eSIMs is that you
the QR code provided by the mobile through its website or mobile app. Look can transfer your number to another
operator. If that doesn’t work, tap ‘Enter for a ‘Replace my SIM’ option or similar phone without inserting the SIM from
activation code’ and type the code from in your plan or SIM settings, and select your old device. Provided both phones
the email that begins with 1$ or LPA:1$. eSIM (see screenshot below). O2 has are on the same Wi-Fi network, you
Press ‘Download’ to install and activate reportedly removed this option from can perform the transfer wirelessly.
the eSIM, then go back to the ‘SIMs & online accounts, so you’ll need to call On a new Android phone, go to the
mobile network’ screen to switch it on. the network or go to an O2 store. ‘SIMs & mobile network’ screen (see
On Samsung Galaxy phones, go to Choose to activate the eSIM and you’ll above), tap ‘Download new SIM’ and
choose ‘Transfer a SIM from another
Compatible Ask your
phones include mobile device’. Scan the QR code with your
an option for network to old phone’s camera, then open the link
setting up replace your and follow the instructions on the new
an eSIM SIM with an phone to transfer your eSIM.
eSIM
On a new iPhone, go to Settings then
Mobile Service and select Set Up Mobile
Service – or ‘Add eSIM’. Tap ‘Transfer
From Nearby iPhone’ (see screenshot
below), then tap Transfer on your old
iPhone. Tap ‘Set Up eSIM’ on your new
iPhone, then ‘Transfer from Another
iPhone’.

Safely dispose of your old SIM

Once you’ve set up your eSIM, you can get icon and choose Delete. Next, remove the SIM
rid of your old SIM card – but don’t just bin card and cut it up with a pair of scissors.
it. Although iPhone SIMs don’t contain any Slice through the gold chip area several
personal data, those in Android phones times to destroy the integrated circuit.
may store your contacts (though these are You can now put the bits in the bin, or
also backed up to your Google account). – to be more environmentally friendly –
To wipe this data, open the Contacts app place them in an e-waste bag with other
and choose ‘Manage SIM’ (or similar). Select small electronic items, and take the lot to
all listed contacts, tap the three-dot menu a local recycling centre. Transfer your eSIM from your old phone to a
new device

56 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 BIN YOUR
SIM CARD
YOUR eSIM QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Can I move my phone number An eSIM
to a new eSIM?
Yes. If you’ve ordered an eSIM from a
lets you
find and Get ready for iSIMs
remotely
new mobile provider, you can transfer lock a lost With eSIMs now widely supported by
your phone number in the same way as or stolen the latest phones, manufacturers are
with a standard SIM. Request a porting- phone already developing the next generation
authorisation code (PAC) from your of SIM technology: iSIM (integrated
current network, by texting PAC to 65075. SIM). An iSIM is directly built into your
Enter the PAC when you sign up with device’s processor, rather than needing
the new eSIM provider, and are asked a separate chip.
whether you want to keep your current This allows smartphones and other
number (see screenshot below). If you smart devices to become even thinner
skipped this step, log into your online and smaller. An iSIM also uses less
account once you’ve set up your eSIM, Hub (see screenshot above). battery power, because fewer active
find the option to transfer your old For peace of mind, ask your mobile components are drawing current.
number and enter the PAC. network to disable the eSIM, to stop As with an eSIM, you download an
thieves making calls or sending texts iSIM profile from the relevant provider.
from your number, should they be able However, there are currently no phones
to unlock your phone. All major UK that support iSIMs, and the technology
providers offer dedicated 24/7 support is mainly being used in ‘Internet of
for this purpose. Things’ devices such as smart meters
Once you have a new phone (or and smart glasses.
have dug out an old one), request a
replacement eSIM from your network
through your online account – or by
speaking to customer service.
Transfer your old number to a new eSIM
using the PAC you requested What happens if I delete
my eSIM?
Will switching to an eSIM If you delete your eSIM after your physical
affect network performance? SIM has been deactivated, your phone will
No. Because an eSIM connects you to the lose all mobile service, including calls, texts
same mobile network as a physical SIM, and data. A ‘No service’ or ‘No SIM’ message
switching has no effect on signal strength, will appear at the top of your screen,
call quality or internet speed – for better though you’ll still be able to use Wi-Fi.
or worse. However, when you add a travel All compatible phones require Deleting an eSIM from your phone requires
eSIM (see page 55), connection speeds confirmation to delete eSIMs (see confirmation
depend on the overseas networks used screenshot above right), so you’re
by the provider. unlikely to do so accidentally. In any What if my phone
case, only the eSIM profile is erased, not stops working?
What happens if my phone your mobile plan, so you can quickly If your phone breaks and will no longer
is lost or stolen? download a new one from your provider. turn on, contact your mobile network
As we mentioned on page 51, no one can Again, this is different for travel eSIMs, and explain what’s happened. They’ll
clone or extract the eSIM from your which can be deleted without affecting deactivate the eSIM profile and issue a
phone – or even access it if your device is the mobile service from your primary new one for your replacement device.
protected with a biometric screen lock. SIM or eSIM. You’ll also need to delete This is one disadvantage eSIMs have
Your eSIM will also let you track and your eSIM when selling your phone – compared to traditional SIMs, which can
remotely lock a lost or stolen phone using this can be done manually or with a be removed from a broken phone and
Apple’s Find My service or Google’s Find factory reset. transferred to a working device.

NEXT ISSUE On sale Wednesday 19 November

ON SALE
Weds
19

Amazon hacks
Nov
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Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 57

 Stop Meta
spying
on you
Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp
have introduced new ways to collect
your personal data. Robert Irvine
explains how to protect your privacy
from Meta’s snooping

F
acebook has always been including your status updates, photos, Stop Meta spying on you
notorious for collecting its users’ videos and comments, to train its AI through other apps
data for advertising purposes. models. This doesn’t include private The most unnerving way Meta spies on
Although its parent company, messages to friends and family, but you you is by collecting data about your
Meta, boasts of investing over $8 billion may still feel uncomfortable about your activities across other apps and websites.
in ‘privacy progress’ since 2019 (www. personal data being analysed by Meta AI. This happens even when you’re not
[Link]/56750), Facebook and its Although Meta doesn’t provided a currently using Facebook or Instagram
fellow Meta apps Instagram and WhatsApp dedicated option to switch off AI training, on your phone, tablet or PC.
continue to make changes that compromise under GDPR regulations you have the The data is collected through hidden
your privacy rather than respect it. right to object to your data being used for code, trackers and ad links in third-party
Here, we explain how to stop Meta this purpose. You can’t do much about apps and websites, which share details
spying on you through its social and content that’s already been used to train of content you view, actions you perform
messaging tools, and using your personal AI, but you can ask Meta to stop doing it and even products you buy. Meta then
data for its own gain. via an online form. uses this information to build a profile
In your desktop browser, go to of your interests and target you with
Stop Meta using your [Link]/56746 and sign into personalised ads.
Facebook data to train its AI your Facebook account to access the Thankfully, it’s possible to disable this
Since June, Meta has used content you objection form. Enter your email address underhand data collection, though Meta
publicly share on Facebook and Instagram, and reason for objecting, such as ‘I do not deliberately tucks the option away. In the
consent to my content or Facebook mobile app, tap the three-line
data being used to train AI menu button and choose ‘Settings &
models’ and click Submit privacy’ then Settings (on the Facebook
(see screenshot below left). website, click your profile icon top right
Meta will confirm your to access these options).
objection in an email. Select ‘See more in Accounts Centre’
Your objection also covers in the Meta Account Centre section,
your Instagram account, as and tap or click ‘Your information and
long as it uses the same permissions’. Here you’ll find the
Facebook login – if not, use all-important ‘Your activity off Meta
the Instagram form at www. technologies’ settings.
[Link]/56747. There’s Choose ‘Recent activity’ and enter
also a form for objecting to your Facebook password to see which
AI training through companies have been sharing details of
WhatsApp ([Link]. your activities with Meta. Some listed
com/56748), but – as we’ll apps will have no obvious connection
explain later – it’s easier to with your Facebook account, but because
You can object to Meta using your public data to train its AI avoid sharing data with they use Meta’s business tools, they’re
models Meta AI in that app. able to tell it what you’ve been doing.

60 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 To stop this
happening, tap Meta to use AI to
or click ‘Clear
previous activity’
personalise ads
(see screenshot Meta will soon combine AI with
left) to delete data advertising to personalise the content
that’s already and ads you see on Facebook and
been collected. Instagram. It says this update will
This will also “improve the recommendations we
disconnect the Stop Facebook using your profile information provide for people across our platforms,
listed apps and to target you with ads so they’re more likely to see content
Clear data Meta has websites from they’re actually interested in” (www.
collected about you via
other companies your Facebook match your interests, such as ‘Vehicle [Link]/56751).
account – if not, insurance’ or ‘Snack foods’. That means your interactions with AI
choose ‘Disconnect specific activity’ to You can select a topic and choose ‘See features on Facebook and Instagram will
do so manually. less’ to encounter fewer ads of that type, now tailor the content and ads you see.
Now go back to the ‘Your activity off but to protect your privacy it’s better to Unlike ChatGPT and Gemini, Meta AI
Meta technologies’ screen and tap or disable personalisation altogether. Choose doesn’t have a ‘private mode’, so
click ‘Manage future activity’. Select ‘Ad settings’ on the ‘Ad preferences’ anything you ask it can be shared with
‘Disconnect future activity’ (see screen, followed by ‘Activity information Meta’s advertising partners.
screenshot below) to stop Meta collecting from ad partners’. Tap or click ‘Review That’s a huge invasion of privacy and a
information about you from third-party setting’ and select ‘No, don’t make my ads good reason not to use Meta AI,
companies. They’ll still share data with more relevant by using this information especially as you can’t opt out of your
Meta, but it won’t be linked to your (see screenshot above)’. data being used to personalise ads.
Facebook account. Next, choose ‘Categories used to reach Thankfully, the UK and EU won’t (yet)
Disabling this setting should also stop you’. Tap or click each entry under ‘Choose be getting the new AI-powered
your activity data being shared with profile information’ and select No for ‘Use recommendations when they’re
Instagram. Double-check by choosing this information to personalise your ads’. introduced in December.
Accounts Centre in your Instagram Tap/click ‘Remove’ for the ‘Categories
settings and choosing ‘Your information associated with you’ to stop seeing those ads.
and permissions’ then ‘Your activity off end-to-end encrypted.
Meta technologies’. Tap ‘Manage future Switch on WhatsApp’s Advanced Chat Privacy, which sparked
activity’ and ensure ‘Disconnect future Advanced Chat Privacy the misleading warning, prevents
activity’ is selected. In August, a message began circulating people you chat to from exporting your
on social media regarding WhatsApp’s conversations and automatically saving
new Advanced Chat Privacy feature. It photos and videos you share to their
warned that, unless you enable the phones. It also disables options to ask
option, “AIs can open group messages, Meta AI questions, and to create images
see phone numbers, and even retrieve or summaries in the chat (which you
personal information from your phone”. can’t yet do in the UK), which is
That claim was strongly refuted by presumably where the confusion arose.
WhatsApp and isn’t true (see www. To enable Advanced Chat Privacy in a
[Link]/56732), but the fact so many one-to-one chat, tap the three-dot icon
people believed it – and shared the and choose ‘View contact’ (in WhatsApp
Prevent Meta from spying on your future message – suggests there’s little trust in for Android), or the name of the chat (on
activities Meta’s privacy policies. And suspicions iOS). Select ‘Advanced chat privacy’ and
about how WhatsApp treats our data switch the option on (see screenshot left).
Stop Facebook showing you were heightened by the addition of the In a group chat, select ‘Group info’ in
personalised ads unremovable Meta AI assistant the three-dot menu (on
Unless you pay for Meta’s new ad-free earlier this year (last year in Android) or tap the group
subscription (see our news story in Issue the US). name (on iOS), and turn on
720, page 7), it’s impossible to completely In response to the false viral ‘Advanced chat privacy’. If
avoid ads on Facebook. However, you can post, WhatsApp explained that you don’t see that option,
stop Meta showing you personalised “Meta AI on WhatsApp can tap ‘Group permissions’
adverts “based on topics that we think only read what you choose to followed by ‘Edit group
you like from your activity”. share with it (it does not have settings’.
Go to the Accounts Centre, as access to all your chats or If you don’t want to –
mentioned earlier, and tap or click ‘Ad contacts)”. It clarified that you or forget to - activate
preferences’. Here you can review your need to directly invoke or Advanced Chat Privacy,
‘Recent ad activity’ – namely, ads you’ve message Meta AI to switch it simply avoid interacting
interacted with, whether intentionally or on, and it can only see (and with Meta AI and your
Advanced Chat Protection
accidentally – and your ‘Ad topics’. These collect) data you share with it disables some AI features WhatsApp chats will be
are the categories of ads Meta believes – your chats otherwise remain in WhatsApp chats completely private.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 61

 Play games
on your TV
(without a console)
Think you need an expensive console to play
games on your telly? Think again. Jonathan
Parkyn explains why your phone, laptop or
streaming stick could be all you need

G
aming doesn’t often crop up in casting standard, and be on the same Similarly, with an iPhone or iPad,
Computeractive, but maybe it Wi-Fi network as the TV, stick or box. swipe down from the top right of the
should. Ofcom research last It’s not always obvious which wireless screen to open the Control Centre, tap
year ([Link]/56742) display standard(s) your devices support. Screen Mirroring, then select your
revealed that gaming is definitely not just As a rule, Apple devices work with AirPlay-compatible TV.
for kids – around 52 per cent of adults AirPlay 2; most Android devices use On a Windows 10 or 11 PC, press
regularly play games too. Their popularity Cast/Chromecast; and most Windows 10 Windows key+K and select your TV (see
is partly down to the rise of TV gaming, and 11 laptops use Miracast. To find out screenshot below left). You may also need
and there’s a great variety (it’s not just which standards your TV supports, check to press Windows key+P to choose your
blasting aliens and zombies). Here’s what its instructions or manufacturer’s web page. display mode – the best option is usually
you need to do to game on your TV. ‘Second screen only’, treating your TV as
Cast your games wirelessly a second monitor.
Cast from your phone, Precise Android settings vary depending
tablet or laptop on your model. In most cases, pull down What if you can’t cast
Casting from your device shows whatever the Quick Settings from the top of the wirelessly?
is on its screen on your TV – and that can screen and tap the Screen Mirroring icon If your TV doesn’t support your
include games. You’ll need a TV (or a – this may be labelled Screen Mirror, Cast device’s wireless display standard,
connected TV stick or set-top box) that or Smart View (as on this Samsung phone consider buying a TV stick or set-top
supports Miracast, Apple’s AirPlay 2 or – 1 in our screenshot below left). Select box that does. For example, iPhone
Google’s Cast/Chromecast. Your phone, your TV 2 in the list that opens and owners with TVs that don’t support
tablet or laptop must support the same follow any instructions. AirPlay 2 could buy an Apple TV box
(from £140, [Link]/56759).
For Android, there’s Google’s TV
Streamer (£99 from [Link].
com/56762), which supports Google Cast
for mirroring games and apps from most
2 Android phones and tablets.
For Windows laptops and Android
devices that only allow full display
mirroring via Miracast, you could
consider adding a Miracast receiver
dongle to your TV (if it doesn’t support
1 Miracast). There are lots available online,
but don’t buy cheap unbranded devices.
A safer option is to use an Amazon Fire
On this Samsung phone you tap Smart View In Windows, press Windows key+K to open all TV stick (from £40 at [Link].
then select your TV casting options, then select your TV com/56765), which works with Miracast.

62 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

Connect your device
with a cable Connect a controller for smoother games
If you can’t get wireless casting to work,
try a wired connection instead. This Using a wired (USB) or wireless
has the added benefit of eliminating (Bluetooth) game controller instead of
problems like delays, which are a your TV’s remote provides smoother
common downside of casting wirelessly. gameplay. Many smart TVs support
Most modern laptops have an HDMI controllers (check its specifications), as do
socket you can use to connect them to most TV sticks and set-top boxes. Plug a
your TV with an HDMI cable. Phones and wired controller into a spare USB port – it
tablets are a little trickier. may be recognised automatically. If not,
Many modern Android go to your TV’s settings under ‘remote
devices support wired and accessories’ to set it up.
display connections via Setup instructions vary for Bluetooth ‘Bluetooth & devices’ then ‘Add device’.
DisplayPort Alt Mode – this controllers. You’ll usually need to start by In iOS, tap Settings, then Bluetooth,
requires a basic USB-C-to- putting your controller into pairing mode while Android users should tap Settings
HDMI adapter (such as this (check its instructions), then navigate to followed by ‘Connected devices’.
£10 model from [Link]. your TV’s settings and look for pairing If you don’t already have a gamepad
com/56766). Check your options. On recent LG TVs, for example, or controller, you can buy one cheaply
device’s specs go to Settings, General, External Devices, online. We recommend 8Bitdo’s
before buying. then Connect Bluetooth Controller. Xbox-like wired controller for £17
For iPhone and To cast games from a phone or laptop, ([Link]/56771, pictured),
iPad you’ll need connect a controller directly to your and Bluetooth model for £40 (www.
either Apple’s USB-C device. In Windows 11, click Settings, [Link]/56772).
Digital AV Multiport
Adapter (£60 from
Connect your iPhone [Link]. access to games, with no extra charge. Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV devices
or iPad to your
com/56767, pictured However, TV gaming is still in beta and offer games in their app stores, for
TV using Apple’s
USB-C Digital AV left) or Lightning available only to selected users on example.
Multiport Adapter Digital AV Adapter supported TVs. Check if you can play by
(£50 from www. opening the Netflix app on your TV and Use an online gaming service
[Link]/56768), depending on the looking for a row or tab labelled Games. These work much like Netflix streams
age and connector on the device. There You’ll have to play with your phone or films. Powerful hardware in the cloud
are cheaper third-party options, but only tablet. Select a game then scan the QR runs the game, and your TV receives the
use those that are MFi-certified (Made code (pictured below left). In Android, video feed. That means you can play
for iPhone/iPad). Once everything is this opens the Netflix app and connects graphically impressive titles without
connected, select the correct HDMI input your device as a controller. On iPhones needing a high-end console or PC under
on your TV and your device’s screen and iPads, it will prompt you to install your telly. Popular game-streaming
should appear automatically. the separate Netflix Game Controller app. services in the UK include Xbox Cloud
Gaming, Nvidia GeForce NOW and
Play games on Netflix Download games to your TV Amazon Luna (pictured below).
Until recently, you could only play Netflix Some smart TVs offer games you can
games through its Android/iOS apps, but download and play directly on the TV
it now lets you play them on its TV app. itself. Models running the Android TV
All Netflix subscription tiers include operating system, Samsung TVs using
Tizen OS, and LG sets running webOS,
Scan the QR
code to play
for instance, usually include a ‘Games’
Netflix games section in their app store. Launch your
with your TV’s app store and see if any game titles
phone are listed for installation.
or tablet Amazon Prime members get some Luna
Most of the games you’ll find in these games every month
stores tend to be casual in nature, rather
than full console-grade blockbusters. Look for these services in your TV’s app
Examples include racing games like store, or you may be able to install them
Asphalt 8 (on Android TV), Tetris on a TV stick or set-top box, such as an
(Hisense and Sharp models running Apple TV or Fire TV device. To use Xbox
Roku OS) and Sudoku (LG models). Cloud Gaming you’ll need to subscribe
In many cases you can play using your to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (£14.99 a
TV remote as controller, though for month), while Nvidia GeForce NOW
faster-paced titles you’ll want a physical starts at £8.99. Amazon Prime members
controller (see box above). If your TV’s get a small selection of Luna games every
app store doesn’t offer a games section, month, but for more you have to pay
your TV stick or set-top box might. £8.99 a month.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 63

 Problems Solved
Our experts solve all your tech problems

PROBLEM OF THE FORTNIGHT

Can I connect my retro computer

to a modern TV?
Having owned several
Q computers when I was
younger, I recently bought an
old Atari ST PC bundled with a few
games. I was rather fond of my ST
years ago, so this was just for nostalgic
reasons. It’s now been delivered but
when I plugged it in I realised it won't
fit any of the connections on the back
of my various TVs (d’oh!).
I have looked on places like eBay
and Amazon but none of the results
I’ve found are very clear about what I
need and, if I’m honest, I found it all a
bit confusing as to which lead or
connection is required.
Linkfor’s SCART-to-HDMI
Could you point me in the right converter supports RGB
direction? I can’t wait to get stuck into conversion
the classic Dungeon Master game again,
so I’m really hoping you can help! understandable reasons, the required SCART-to-HDMI converter; and a
Jamie Arthur cables and converters tend to be niche standard HDMI-to-HDMI cable. The
products – this is both generally true, and last of these is commonplace these
Technology marches ever also specifically in your case. So, while days so you might have one lying
A onwards so the problem of
older gadgets not working
you might find what you need on eBay
or Amazon, it won’t necessarily be easy.
around, but if not Amazon sells them
cheaply for around £4 ([Link].
with newer devices is a perennial one. Instead, anyone wanting to revive a com/56381).
Though there isn’t always an easy computer from a previous era would be You can pick up the RGB-to-SCART
solution, it’s usually possible to string wise to immerse themselves in machine- from a specialist supplier like
together a solution to connect a retro specific retro websites and forums – where Retro Computer Shack (www.
computer to a modern TV using a subjects like this are regularly discussed. [Link]) for around
series of cables and adapters. Specifically with your ST, you’ll £17, but be sure to buy one designed
We think your question will be of probably need three components: an for your specific ST model (www.
wider interest to owners of other retro RGB-to-SCART lead (pictured below); a [Link]/56382). As for the SCART-
systems, so we’ll talk in both general to-HDMI converter, you can buy these
and specific terms. on eBay and Amazon easily enough but
Now, specifically with your Atari ST, avoid the temptation to buy the very
it’s important to understand that there cheapest, as you need one that supports
are several different models. These RGB conversion – such as the Linkfor
could output to a traditional (RF/UHF) model pictured above (£34 from www.
TV or an RGB monitor – or both. So, [Link]/56383).
the first step is to determine exactly Finally, you just need to connect
which model you’ve bought. If you’re them all. Plug one end of the RGB-to-
not sure, the information should be SCART lead into your Atari ST, and the
displayed on the serial-number sticker other end into the SCART converter.
on the machine’s underside. Then plug the HDMI cable into both the
With that noted, it’s time to head to You’ll need an RGB-to-SCART lead to connect SCART converter and your TV and you
the shops. Well, not quite. For an old PC to a modern TV set should be good to go.

64 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 Email us your problem and we’ll try to help:
noproblem@[Link]

How fast are my Use Nirsoft’s

USBDeview

laptop’s USB ports? tool to

analyse the
speeds of
I always thought a blue USB port
Q meant
your PC’s
fast USB 3.0, but a friend ports
of mine reckons that’s not true.
Who’s right here? Either way, is there an
easy way of telling which standard or
speed a particular USB port is? My HP
laptop, which is a few years old, has two
blue ports – how can I tell which speed that to 10Gbps; and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 goes ports, and to test their performance.
they are? up to 20Gbps. It’s a free download from [Link].
Dougie Holden There are also different connector com/56384. The program gathers a lot of
types. There’s the rectangular USB-A data about ports and connected devices,
While it’s generally true that a port, which you have on your laptop, but and displays much of this as code
A blue USB socket indicates USB
3.0, it’s not a strict standard —
USB 3.0 and later versions can also use
USB-C connectors, which look different,
numbers. You’ll need to look up the
meanings of yours on the USB-IF’s
more a recommendation from the USB being a smaller, oval connector. Defined Class Codes database at www.
Implementers Forum (USB-IF, [Link]. So, while blue ports often mean USB [Link]/56385.
org) when USB 3.0 was first launched 3.x speeds, of between 5 and 20Gbps, the To test the speed using USBDeview,
over a decade ago. So, a rectangular USB colour alone isn’t a foolproof guide. If you right-click a connected USB device and
port with blue plastic inside is probably look closely at the ports themselves they then choose Speed Test (see screenshot).
USB 3.0, but it’s not guaranteed. Besides, might be labelled with an SS symbol, Now click Start Test and wait while the
the colour doesn’t reliably tell you the which stands for SuperSpeed – perhaps test proceeds.
actual speed. with the number 5, 10 or 20 to indicate a A result measured in tens of megabytes
Things get more complicated because 5, 10 or 20Gbps transfer rate. (MB) per second suggests a USB 2.0 port
USB-IF’s branding of the standards is a Alternatively, we’d suggest using (or device), while USB 3.x sockets and
total mess. USB 3.0, for example, NirSoft’s free USBDeview tool to analyse devices should return MB/s values in the
supports up to 5Gbps; USB 3.1 doubles the specifications of your HP laptop’s hundreds.

Why won’t my Android Chrome app zoom into websites?

After years of being locked 1 2
Q into iOS with my Apple
iPhone, I decided to break free
by jumping to Android and Google’s
Pixel 10 phone – and I love it! I’ve fixed
several small annoyances, but one that
still catches me out is the fact that I can
no longer pinch to zoom on some
websites. This feature does work on
some sites, but it’s pretty random as to
which. If I view the same websites on
my iPhone, I can zoom in – so it seems
to be an issue with Android. Do you To zoom into websites via Chrome on Android, …then tap Accessibility and switch on the
know how to resolve this? tap Settings in the browser’s menu… ‘Force enable zoom’ slider
Paul Thurston
ignores any hard-coded instructions thankfully, it’s easy to make Chrome
It is to do with Android, or more along these lines, so users of that browser behave like Safari in this regard. First,
A specifically its default Chrome
web browser. Some developers
should be able to pinch to zoom on
almost any website. But by default
tap to open the Chrome menu (three
dots, top right), then tap Settings (see
include code in their websites to disable Chrome does respect developer wishes, screenshot 1 ). Next, scroll down and
the ability to zoom, presumably to ensure so that explains the difference. tap Accessibility. Finally, switch on the
the layout appears how they intend. We happen to think it’s pretty silly that ‘Force enable zoom’ slider 2 , and you
Android and Google’s effectively developers impose such restrictions but, can now zoom into any content.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 65

 Problems Solved
Do I need to ditch my TP-Link router?
How can I enable
my TPM chip?
I have one of the TP-Link The TL-WR940N
Q routers that you suggested
should be replaced because of
is one of TP-
Link’s older
routers that
My desktop PC is an Acer security considerations (see Issue 713, should be
Q Aspire XC-705, purchased in
2016. Microsoft says this
page 7). I am using it solely as a wireless
access point downstream of my ISP
replaced for
safety reasons
isn’t suitable for upgrading to Windows router and have disabled the DHCP
11. In Issue 714’s Letters section, Roy function. Do I still need to replace the
Rolt said he found the TPM 2.0 chip router? Thank you for a most useful
in his BIOS, enabled it, and his magazine.
computer was then fine for Michael Wild
upgrading to Windows 11. I’ve looked
in my BIOS but don’t know where to For the benefit of other readers,
find TPM 2.0. Please can you tell me
where I can find it?
A the specific routers in question
are the TL-WR940N (versions 2
Mike Whitehead to 4, pictured right), TL-WR841N (8 to 10)
and TL-WR740N (1 and 2). All these
What Roy was talking models are well over a decade old, and no on your wider network, but that does not
A about is what’s known as a
‘firmware TPM’, or fTPM,
longer supported by TP-Link – so the
flaws identified by the US Cybersecurity
make it safe. The security problems with
your router are serious. While the chances
rather than a distinct TPM chip. This and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA, of your setup being directly targetted are
technology has been integrated into [Link]) will never be fixed. Those low, vast numbers of online bots are
PC processors for a number of years flaws are real and CISA says that they’re constantly searching for vulnerabilities
but sometimes isn’t enabled (see being actively exploited ([Link]. – so it’s probably only a matter of time
screenshot below). Doing so via the com/56386, see screenshot below). before your system is ‘sniffed’ out.
UEFI/BIOS will indeed add TPM We know that your router is purely In short, we’re afraid the only truly safe
capabilities to a PC. Just to be being used as an access point and is not option is remove this broken router from
awkward, Intel brands it Platform itself handing out IP addresses to devices your setup.
Trust Technology (PTT), rather than
fTPM, so that’s what you may need to
look for in the BIOS – if the feature
exists at all.
Your nine-year-old PC has an Intel
Core i3-4160 processor. Sadly, this
does not have fTPM/PTT. This CPU
is also several generations below
Microsoft’s supposed minimum
requirements for Windows 11. You
could in theory still force an upgrade
using registry tweaks, but your
particular processor’s generation is
significantly below where even we
would say this might work.

US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency says that several of TP-Link’s older
routers are now being actively exploited by cyber-criminals

Q: Can I fit a second drive in my

laptop?
A: Issue 695, page 66 – find it on
our 2024 Back Issue CD
fTPM isn’t always enabled in your PC’s Buy it from
BIOS [Link]/53433

66 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 How do I rip my collection of CDs and DVDs?
I have a collection of about
Q 100 CDs and 15 DVDs that I’d
like to dispose of to make
some cupboard space, but I’d like to
keep the contents. I have an external
disc drive connected to a Geekom IT12
mini PC, and I was thinking of copying
the discs to an external hard drive. Is 1
this a feasible option? What’s the 2
easiest way to transfer them?
Neil Howells

Yes, this was once a

A commonplace and pretty
straightforward task. As time
marches on we suppose many people
will have forgotten how to do it – so Click the folder icon then the Make MKV button
we’re happy to recap.
First, for the CDs, just open Windows OK, and then you’re good to click the Rip ( 1 in our screenshot), before clicking
Media Player. Insert a disc into your CD button. the Make MKV button 2 .
drive and wait for a moment, then a For DVDs, we’d recommend the free Note, this produces an MKV file
Rip CD button should appear. You can MakeMKV app ([Link]). that can be viewed in many popular
just click this but we’d advise first The process is very similar to CDs. Insert players these days, such as VLC (www.
adjusting a couple of key settings. So in a disc then click the drive icon to open [Link]). If you want to convert
the same menu, click ‘More options’, the DVD or Blu-ray, at which point MKV files to the MP4 standard for
then the Rip Music tab. In the ‘Rip MakeMKV will automatically strip out wider compatibility, grab the free
music to this location’ section, click the any copy protection it finds on the disc. HandBrake program (from https://
Change button then use the Browse Then, just click the folder icon under [Link]) – and use that to
box to choose your external drive. Click ‘Output folder’ to choose your hard drive transcode between formats.

What’s this message

when upgrading
VirtualBox?
After reading about VirtualBox
Q ([Link]) in your
magazine I’ve been using it for
years to run old software in Windows XP.
I’m currently on version 6.0 but keep
getting urged to upgrade to 7.1. I eventually
gave in to the nagging, but when I tried It’s safe to click ‘Yes’ to continue upgrading Avoid receiving the message entirely by
to install 7.1 I was met with a warning VirtualBox when you see this message tweaking this section of the installation process
message about Python and ‘missing
dependencies’. I’m reluctant to proceed nothing to worry about. It relates to continue. You wouldn’t have seen this
in case I end up breaking my current some advanced and niche features that message before because the Python-
VirtualBox setup. I don’t recall such most people will never use. In short, they related aspect was introduced only
problems when upgrading VirtualBox in allow software developers to control with VirtualBox 7.
the past. I'm running Windows 10 (and VirtualBox using custom scripts. We should also say that this message
will be one of those reckless souls who So, in effect the message is telling you can be avoided entirely by tweaking the
will continue to do so). Can you help? that, without Python installed, these installation instructions at the start.
Allan Postgate advanced aspects will be unavailable – To do this, click to expand the
at least until such time as Python is VirtualBox Python Support dropdown
The warning message you’re installed. But 99 per cent of people menu and then choose ‘Entire feature will
A encountering is worded
alarmingly, but it’s actually
won’t ever need them, so you can safely
click Yes (see screenshot above) to
be unavailable’ (see screenshot above)
– then click Next to proceed.

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 67

 Problems Solved
How can I get a
driver without
internet access?
I recently purchased an Epson
Q ET-2830 printer, but there was
no installation disc in the box.
1

I don’t have an internet connection at

home. So I had to visit an internet cafe to
download what Epson’s instructions said.
When I got home again to use it, this 2
turned out to be just an ‘installer’ that
was of no use to anyone lacking internet
access. Is there anywhere I can get an ISO Avoid the Epson Product Setup file (v5.0) file Untick this option to stop the driver looking for
file that contains the printer drivers so I and download ‘Driver (v3.80.00)’ instead online updates in future
can write them to CD?
Paul Holt basically the correct one. The bad news is labelled ‘Driver (v3.80.00)’ 2 , under the
that you unfortunately downloaded the Drivers heading – a bit lower down the
Few printers these days wrong file when at the internet cafe. page. So, you’ll need to return to the
A include an installation disc.
Manufacturers assume that most
We think you downloaded the Epson
Product Setup (v5.0) file ( 1 in our
internet cafe and click the Download
button here, instead.
people will have an internet connection, screenshot above), which is under the Finally, to avoid further problems after
and it allows them to ensure that only the Product Setup heading on the Epson setup, be sure to remove the tick from the
latest versions of drivers are installed. support website for your model (at www. ‘Automatically update software’ box (see
But that reality doesn’t help you. The [Link]/56388). However, what you screenshot above): this will stop the
good news is that your own solution was actually need is the full driver package, driver looking for online updates.

Can I watch Freeview or Freesat on my Samsung TV set?

I recently purchased a
Q Samsung S90D TV set. I
mainly stream TV programmes
but I cannot work out if this TV has
Freeview or Freesat included, or if I
2
need to buy a separate receiver.
Dave Butler
To add Freeview
There’s plenty of confusion 1 channels via the
A about whether new Samsung
TVs have Freeview (or
initial setup of
your Samsung
TV, follow these
indeed Freesat) – mainly due to poor steps
documentation and confusing setup.
Your TV’s specifications do include a 3 4
DVB-T2CS2 tuner, which in the UK
means Freeview over a traditional
RF/UHF cable – typically from a
rooftop aerial. Your set’s built-in
tuner does not support Freesat.
The trouble is that, unless the tuning
option is chosen during initial setup,
the Samsung TV Plus app forces its
way to the fore – and then it seems
impossible to add Freeview channels. by All Settings, and then ‘General & screenshot top) followed by Auto
The trick is to start again by performing Privacy’ followed by ‘Factory data reset’. Tuning Settings and then Auto Tuning
a factory reset. When that’s done, return to All Settings 2 – and then follow the prompts 3
To do this, choose Settings followed then choose Broadcasting ( 1 in our and 4 .

68 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

 ?? WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN...
i7, Core 7 and Core Ultra 7 processors?
My HP all-in-one desktop PC,
Q bought in 2019, is beginning
to show its age. So, I’ve started
to look for a replacement.
Previously, I’ve looked for the term
‘i7’ when shopping for PCs, which told
me something about the speed of the
computer’s processor. My understanding
was to never purchase any laptop or
desktop below i7, because they would
be too slow for me.
Now I see wording such as ‘Ultra 7’
when looking at new desktop PCs. Is Intel’s Core Ultra
processors are at the top
Ultra 7 the new equivalent of i7? If not, of Intel’s performance
what words should I be looking for the hierarchy
equivalent of i7 to ensure it won’t go
at a snail’s pace? apparently decided that the ‘i’ prefix graphics and AI features.
Lynn Sharpe sounded a bit old hat, harking as it did So, while a Core 7 is effectively a
back to earlier days of computing, so it direct successor to your trusty Core i7,
Not so long back, buying a ditched it from consumer branding. This a Core Ultra 7 will usually outperform
A PC could be more or less as
simple as you describe. Intel
resulted in Core 3, 5, 7 and 9.
At the same time, the chip-maker
it in raw speed and extra features.
Fortunately, your old rule of thumb can
offered a range of consumer processors introduced a higher-tier range under the still be broadly applied. Whatever PC
branded as Core i3, i5 and i7 – with i7 name ‘Core Ultra’ — Core Ultra 5, 7 and 9 you buy, if the processor is a Core 7 or
as the top dog. The company did later (there’s no 3). They now sit at the top of Ultra 7, you know it’s up to snuff.
add an i9, but by opting for an i7, you Intel’s performance hierarchy, in the Want to know the difference between
knew you’d get a speedy machine. world of consumer PCs at least, with technical terms? Email noproblem@
But a couple of years ago, Intel extra bells and whistles like enhanced [Link]

Where do I plug my phone into a new router?

Do faster routers have a end of this plugs into a standard Ethernet
Q dedicated telephone socket? I’ve
never seen this mentioned in the
socket on the back of any modern router,
while the other end provider a socket
various reviews I’ve read. I’m on full- for a BT 431A plug (as pictured left).
fibre broadband and currently have a BT If not, or you simply want to plough
Smart Hub 2. My landline phone plugs your own furrow with a VoIP-compatible
into a standard phone socket on the back router of your choice, buy an adapter for
– coloured green. If I decided to upgrade around £5 ([Link]/56389).
my router or ISP, how would I connect
my phone? To use an ISP’s VoIP service, you’ll need to
use an adapter like this ON SALE
Emm Archer
three-pin mains plugs. That’s why few if Next Issue Weds
19 Oct
The Smart Hub 2 is pretty any other routers have a socket for this
A unusual in having a built-in
socket specifically designed for
plug. BT includes it because its own
Digital Voice offering, as its VoIP service
• Will my software licences
work in Windows 11?
a traditional UK landline phone terminal, is known, accepts traditional landline •H
 ow do I clear out my inbox?
technically known as a BT 431A plug. This phones – so customers can just plug in •C
 an I download all my
plug-and-socket combo was introduced and go. Google photos?
by British Telecom in the early 1980s. Many other ISPs offer their own VoIP ...And many more
Obviously, it then became a standard in services and some will supply their own
the UK. router when you sign up for broadband. Subscribe to Computeractive at
However, beyond our shores BT 431A is If you additionally sign up for a VoIP [Link]
little more than a curiosity, much like our service, they’ll send you an adapter. One

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 69

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Why can’t I download Linux? Norton Antivirus software has Proton’s VPN, mail and storage, as well as
I had decided even before reading quarantined it, warning that it contains its calendar and password manager.
Q your Windows 10 Survival Guide
in Issue 718 that I was going to
a Trojan called ‘[Link]. Is this a
false positive? Is it safe to install Ventoy
switch to Linux Mint or Zorin. I visited Peter Varley and run Linux on my USB?
DistroSea ([Link]) as you In Issue 716’s Cover Feature
suggested in order to test them, but was Files 4.0 is perfectly safe, so Q (‘Stop wasting your USB stick’)
unable to download either Mint or Zorin.
I tried it on three different browsers
A this is almost certainly a false
positive, as you suggest. You
you gave instructions on using
Ventoy ([Link]/55677) to
(Chrome, DuckDuckGo and Edge), all should be able to restore the download install Linux distros on a USB stick. I
without success. Can you help? from Norton’s quarantine and install it as followed your advice but when I try to
Geof French normal. According to Norton’s support install Ventoy I get the warning ‘Careful
pages ([Link]/56624), you do not to install on PC’. Should I abandon
DistroSea isn’t for downloading this by clicking Security, Security History, the installation or press ‘Install’ on my
A Linux distros – it’s for trying them
in a browser window before you
then selecting Quarantine in the Recent
History dropdown menu. Select ‘Files’ in
stick? I’m reluctant to install over my
current version of Windows. I’ve looked
install them. On the homepage, you’ll the list, then click the menu (three online, but I can’t find any help.
find icons for both Linux Mint and Zorin horizontal dots) next to it and choose Philip Thompson
OS. Click either one, then click the ‘Create exception & restore’.
version of the distro you’d like to try (we You’re right to be cautious. That
recommend the latest Cinnamon edition
of Linux Mint – see screenshot below –
Can I sign up to all of
Proton’s services?
A warning appears because
Ventoy’s installer can overwrite
or the latest Core64 version of Zorin OS). I want to stop being bombarded any drive you select, including your
Q by adverts, emails and trackers,
so I’m keen to try Proton’s
Windows system drive, so you definitely
don’t want to click ‘Install’ with anything
various privacy-focused tools, having other than your USB stick selected.
been interested in several of your recent The safe way to proceed is to insert
recommendations. But I’m not sure your USB stick, making sure it’s the
whether I can sign up to all of Proton’s only removable drive connected to your
services (email, VPN, storage etc) in one computer, so you don’t accidentally pick
subscription – making it cheaper than the wrong one. Open the Ventoy installer,
Select the latest version of Cinnamon in paying for each separately. select the USB stick as the target ( 1 in our
DistroSea to try it in your web browser Simon Bennett screenshot below), then click Install 2 .
This will set up Ventoy on the USB stick
If the DistroSea site is busy, you may Try Proton’s Unlimited only. It will erase any existing data on
need to wait in a queue. Tick the ‘Verify
you are human’ box, if prompted, then
A subscription tier ([Link].
com/56625). It costs £10.59 a
that stick, but your PC and Windows
installation remain untouched.
click the Start Zorin OS/Linux Mint button month; £8.19 a month if you commit to a
and wait until your chosen distro loads. year (see screenshot below); and £6.59 if
If you decide you want to download you commit to two years. It includes
1
one after trying them, head to www.
[Link]/54892 (for Zorin OS) or
[Link]/56593 (for Linux Mint).

Is Files 4.0 safe to download?

I downloaded Files 4.0 from 2
Q [Link]/56242, as
you recommend in Issue 719
(page 18), and it seems to be a marked Proton Unlimited costs £8.19 a month if you In Ventoy, make sure your USB stick is
improvement on File Explorer. But my commit to a year selected before clicking Install

Issue 722 • 5 – 18 November 2025 71

 Jargon Buster
1080p/1440p Common types of Code Written instructions that tell Graphics card PC component that MIL-STD-810H A US military
high-definition video of 1920x1080 software how to execute tasks. produces the image on a monitor. standard that tests durability of
and 2560x1440 pixels respectively. devices under extreme conditions.
Codec A file that tells a PC how to HDMI Connection that transmits
4G/5G Technologies that deliver record or play a type of media file. high-definition video and audio. Miracast Wireless standard for
faster mobile broadband. sending video and audio from one
Copilot+ An enhanced version of Hotspot A public area covered by device (like a phone or laptop) to
4K Video with a resolution of at Microsoft’s Copilot AI tool. a Wi-Fi network that allows you to another (like a TV or monitor).
least 3840x2160 pixels. access the internet.
Core Units on a processor that Mirror To display on your TV
ANC Active noise cancelling. carry out program instructions. HTML The language used to write what’s on your PC or tablet screen.
Method for reducing unwanted most web pages.
sound by adding a second sound Dark mode Showing white text MKV An open-source type of
designed to cancel the first. on a black background. Hz Hertz. Measures the frequency video file that can contain audio,
something happens: 1Hz equals video and text for subtitles.
ARM Processors that are more DDR5 The newest, fastest type of once a second.
energy-efficient than those made computer memory. MVNO A mobile provider that
by AMD and Intel. Incognito mode A browser mode piggybacks on another network.
Digital modulator Converts data into that doesn’t save your history
ARP Address Resolution Protocol. a broadcast signal for transmission. NetBIOS Network Basic Input/
Maps a device’s IP address to its IP address A unique set of numbers Output System. Old protocol
physical MAC address on a local DisplayPort A socket for used to identify computers and that lets computers identify
network. connecting monitors. websites on the internet. themselves on a local network.

Augmented reality Lets you Distro A version of the Linux OS IP54 Provides limited protection Noise cancellation See ANC.
view the real world on a screen and the programs that go with it. from dust and water.
and add virtual elements. OCuLink Connectivity standard
DNS A technology that associates IP55 Indicates a device has been that allows high-speed data
Beamforming A technique for computers with their addresses on tested against dust and water for transfers between devices using
microphones to pick up on specific the internet. up to 55 minutes PCI Express.
sources of sound and reduce
background noise. Driver A file that tells Windows how IP67 Resistant to dust, general ODF Open-source office format
to work with an external device. dirt and sand, and can be placed supported LibreOffice and OnlyOffice.
Benchmarking Comparing underwater for 30 minutes.
software and products with an Emoji A small graphic that can be OLED A thin-film organic light-
accepted standard. inserted into a text or email. ISO file A type of image file that emitting diode used in computer
contains data from a CD or DVD. displays and television screens.
Beta A version of software that’s End-to-end encryption
being tested. Encrypting messages so only the JPEG A common type of image file PAC A unique code that lets users
sender and recipient can read them. created by most digital cameras. retain their mobile phone number
Biometric Using measurable when switching operators.
personal characteristics, such as Equaliser Changes the tone of LED Light-emitting diode. An
fingerprints, for identification. music produced by a PC or player. electronic device that emits light. PCIe A faster version of PCI - a
slot on the motherboard for sound
BIOS Software built into every PC eSIM A virtual SIM card that’s built M.2 A standard specification for PC and memory cards.
that connects the vital components. into a phone. expansion cards and connectors.
Ping A way to measure how
Bot Automated software designed Ethernet A standard used for mAh Milliamp hours. A unit that quickly your device gets a
to perform specific tasks. almost all wired computer networks. measures (electric) power over response after sending a request
time. The higher the mAh, the for information via the internet.
Cache A temporary space for Factory reset Restoring a device to longer a battery will last.
storing information. the manufacturer’s default settings. PNG A format for images that
mDNS Multicast DNS. A network shrinks file sizes.
Chatbot An AI program designed to False positive When an antivirus protocol that lets devices on the same
recreate conversation with humans. program wrongly detects a local network find each other without Progressive web app A website
malware infection. needing a central DNS server. that looks and works like an app.
Chiclet Small, flat, square keys
with rounded corners. Frame rate Number of still images, Membrane keyboard Keyboards Python A simple programming
or frames, shown per second (fps) that use rubber domes that language popular with beginners.
Clock speed The speed at which a to create a moving image. connect to small electrical contacts.
processor can perform operations. QR code A barcode that can be
Measured in Gigahertz (GHz). GDPR 2018 EU law strengthening Micro HDMI An HDMI connector read using smartphones.
people’s privacy. measuring 6.4x2.8mm.
Coaxial A type of cable where one Read speed How long it takes
wire is surrounded by insulation, GIF A type of image file often MicroSD card A small type of a hard drive to ‘read’ data, and
then surrounded by another wire. used on the web. memory card. respond to it.

72 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722

Refresh rate The number of times SIM The smart card used by all Thunderbolt A very fast port for VESA A standard mount for
per second that the image on your digital mobile phones. connecting external storage to a PC. attaching monitors on to stands,
monitor is redrawn. walls and PCs.
SpectrometryA technique for TPM A chip that stores keys which
RF Radio Frequency. Part of the measuring properties of light or encrypt data on your hard drive. VGA An older standard socket for
electromagnetic spectrum used other electromagnetic radiation to connecting a monitor to a PC.
for wireless communication. identify materials or chemicals. Trojan A malicious computer
program that’s disguised as a VoIP Voice over IP. The routing of
RGB An image created on a SSD Solid-state drive. Storage that different, harmless program. voice conversations over the web.
monitor by combining a value for uses no moving parts.
red, green and blue channels. UEFI A modern replacement for VPN Keeps all internet
SSDP Network protocol that helps the BIOS communication safe and private.
RGB keyboard Advanced type of devices find each other.
LED backlit keyboards. UHF Radio waves with frequencies Wi-Fi 6 Wi-Fi standard with speeds
Switch Mechanism under a from 300MHz to 3GHz, used for up to 10 times faster than 802.11ac.
Roaming charge Fee incurred for keyboard that determines whether TV, radio and wireless devices.
using your phone to receive data a key has been pressed. Wi-Fi 6E Wi-Fi 6 extended to
via overseas mobile networks. Ultrawide Offering a field of view include the 6GHz band.
System restore point Collection that’s wider than digital cameras.
SBC codec Audio compression of system files to which Windows Wi-Fi 7 Has speed of around
format used mainly in Bluetooth can revert if a problem occurs. Upscale Creating a larger version 46Gbps.
headphones and speakers. of a photo without sacrificing
Tag A keyword used to describe a clarity and detail. Widget A small program that runs
Scissor switch Keys that have two file or web page. on the Windows desktop.
plastic pieces that interlock in a USB 2.0/3.0/3.1/3.2/4.0 Faster
scissor-like fashion. Temporary file Created by sites to successors to USB. Wireless access point A device
store info for a specific purpose. that lets Wi-Fi devices connect to a
Script A short program stored on a USB-A The original type of USB wired network and the internet.
server to control part of a website. Thread Smallest sequence of connector, released in 1996.
instructions that can be managed Write speed How long it takes a
SD card A type of memory card. by a processor. USB-C A connector that’s reversible. hard drive to save data.
 Easy when you
Know How
Now Perplexity has made its new Comet browser
available for free, Robert Irvine tries to…

Browse the web using AI

L
ook – up in the sky! It’s a search Robert used
engine, it’s a chatbot, it’s a browser 2 Comet’s agentic
AI to perform
- it’s Perplexity Comet! And it tasks such as
promises to let you do anything, which is drafting an email
a bold claim. Even Superman has his limits.
As a fan of Perplexity’s AI-powered 3
‘answer engine’ ([Link]), I’ve
been eager to try its new AI browser
Comet since it launched in July. But I
certainly wasn’t going to pay $200 (about
£150) a month for the privilege, so was 1
pleased when – as we explained in our
Cover Feature in Issue 721 (page 56) –
Perplexity made Comet available for
free in October. to sign in with my Perplexity account which it immediately did, then to find me
to “unlock the full power of Comet”. I the best deals on smart TVs. It searched
duly obliged, clicked ‘Skip for now’ when Amazon, loaded the results in the main
I was again asked to import browser data tab then used ‘reasoning’ to analyse the
and make Comet my default, and finally prices and customer ratings of the TVs. It
got a proper look at the browser. settled on a 32in Samsung set for £179,
An exciting way to Its minimalist appearance is similar to which was a bit small but undoubtedly a
Chrome’s – unsurprising as Comet is good deal.
browse and leaves based on Chromium – and the homepage Next, I told Comet Assistant to open
is essentially the same as the Perplexity Gmail and draft me an email 3 . It got
Chrome in the website’s. It features a large search/message the first part right, but for the second I
box containing icons for switching the AI needed to enter a ‘Compose an email’
(space) dust model, attaching files and activating voice prompt. I fixed this by enabling the
mode, and a left-hand sidebar with tabs ‘Gmail with Calendar’ connector in
for Perplexity’s Discover and Spaces my account settings, so when I repeated
features. the request, Assistant leapt into action,
An ‘Edit widgets’ button at the bottom opened a Compose window in Gmail
of the page ( 1 in our screenshot above) and generated a message based on my
I downloaded the new browser from lets you customise the homepage with instructions.
[Link]/56646, ran the installer widgets including a clock, weather Sadly, after trying a few more prompts I
and clicked Launch Comet. I was greeted forecast, to-do list and a game called hit my limit for free Perplexity Pro requests,
by a celestial animation with an ambient ‘wormhole’. However, I hadn’t installed which ruled out further ‘agentic’ tricks
soundtrack and a ‘Welcome to Comet’ the browser for its widgets, but to explore for the day – a subscription costs $20
message. I clicked ‘Get started’ and Comet its advanced AI capabilities. (about £15) a month. However, I could
gave me the option to import my The main AI tool is Assistant, which still get answers to questions, enjoy
browsing history, settings, bookmarks you access by clicking that button in the Comet’s fast and ad-free browsing, and
and passwords from another browser. But top-right corner 2 or the Try Assistant install extensions from the Chrome
because I wanted a clean start, I chose option at the bottom of the homepage. Web Store.
‘Do this later’. This opens a right-hand side panel where It’s early days for the AI browser, and
Next, I entered a profile name and you can chat to Assistant, ask it to the restrictions of Perplexity’s free plan
selected an astronomical avatar. Comet summarise the current page and take could prove annoying, but Comet
asked for my permission to set it as my screenshots of specific elements to learn promises to be an exciting new way to
default browser, among other requests. I more about them. So far, so Copilot, but browse the web and leaves Chrome in the
declined all for the time being and Comet’s ‘agentic’ aspect means it can also (space) dust.
clicked Start Comet. perform tasks for you. Need help with other AI tools? Let us know:
The browser opened and prompted me I asked it to open Amazon in a new tab, noproblem@[Link]

74 5 – 18 November 2025 • Issue 722 Next issue: Robert tries to transfer files by scanning codes
9000