Alienware’s OLED gaming monitors were already among the most affordable from any major brand. But with Amazon Prime Day wrapping up, there’s a deal on an older model that you shouldn’t overlook. The 34-inch ultrawide model from a couple of years ago is going for $549.99, fully half off its original retail price. The Alienware AW3423DWF uses a semi-standard 3440×1440 resolution and has a 165Hz refresh rate, a little slow compared to the newest designs, but still more than enough to make your gaming PC sweat on the latest AAA games. Matt Smith praised its contrast and color, though noting it lacks USB-C for easy laptop connections and has a bit of a chunky stand. (That’s okay, you can use a VESA stand.) For the full breakdown, check out the full PCWorld review. Amazon has this marked as a “Prime Day” deal, which means you’ll need to be an Amazon Prime subscriber in order to get it. You can find one for less than you might think, but if you’d rather not, the “regular” $650 price is still pretty good even for an older design. For other deals be sure to check out our Prime Day monitor roundup, which includes deals from around the web. Get an Alienware ultrawide OLED gaming monitor for just $550View Deal Read...

Cropping images on Windows is easier than you think, thanks to built-in tools like the Snipping Tool, Photos app, and Paint. Whether you’re editing screenshots, resizing photos, or preparing images for social media, Windows offers several ways to crop without the need for third-party software. Here’s how to do it with each tool. Using the Snipping Tool Let’s start with the Snipping Tool. First, right-click on an image file in Explorer and navigate to Open with > Snipping Tool. This will load the Snipping Tool with the selected image. Next, click on the Crop image button in the toolbar—it’s the fourth from the right. A frame with handles will now appear around the image. Drag the handles inward to crop the image as desired. Once the result looks right, click the checkmark icon at the top labeled Apply (input). Use the Save as button at the top right to save the edited image as a new file. The Photos app is best suited for cropping images, as it includes advanced editing options and photo management. IDG Using the Photos App With the Photos app (also known as the Windows Photo Viewer), you can easily crop images. To do this, right-click on the desired photo in Explorer and select Edit with Photos from the context menu. Make sure that Crop is selected at the top of the toolbar, then drag the handles until the image is the desired size. Click the Save options button and select what you want to do with the edited image. Alternatively, to crop your photo with a custom aspect ratio, click Free at the bottom, choose a suitable format, confirm with Done, and click on Save options. Using Paint As a third option, you can also use the Paint program for cropping. Right-click on the image file in Explorer and go to Edit with Paint. In Paint, you may first have to adjust the photo to a suitable view using the Fit to window size button at the bottom right. The software automatically adds handles to the photo, which you can use to crop it quickly. It’s also possible to go to Select > Rectangle on the far left of the toolbar, select the part of the image you want to keep, and then use the Crop button (immediately to the right) to remove the rest of the photo. Read...

Scientists from the USA and Bremen have investigated how and why people suffer “death by GPS”–and what this actually means. Ultimately, the study aims to make navigation systems safer and help prevent such tragedies. Classic examples of deaths caused by GPS include tourists who stubbornly follow the instructions of their navigation device and end up falling into the ocean or dying of thirst in the desert–hence the nickname “death by GPS.” It’s also worth noting that navigation often relies not only on GPS signals but also on other services, including WLAN. Navigation devices can cause accidents simply by distracting the driver. In one case, a driver ran over a cyclist while zooming in on the GPS map. Incorrect or misunderstood navigation instructions can lead to collisions with other cars, pedestrians, or cyclists. Surprisingly, researchers found many cases in which drivers followed their GPS and ended up on the wrong side of the road. In one instance, the person drove about 29 miles on wrong side of the road because they blindly followed their device. Problems also arise when the GPS doesn’t account for the vehicle’s capabilities. For example, an off-road vehicle might handle a rough shortcut, while sports cars get stuck. Weather also plays a key role in navigation safety, researchers found. The study identified 52 fatalities and a number of serious injuries, though more than half of the accidents didn’t result in a death. Take the time to read the study summary before setting off on your next journey with a navigation device. Read...

Every now and then, you hear strange stories of people trying to trick ChatGPT. Sometimes they threaten the AI; other times they invent absurd scenarios to get content ChatGPT is programmed not to deliver. One Reddit user managed to get the AI to generate free activation keys for Windows in a rather absurd way. He did this by talking about his deceased grandmother. He began the conversation with a vague “You know what happened to Grandma, don’t you?”–to which the AI initially had no answer. He then explained that his grandmother had passed away, whereupon ChatGPT signaled sympathy–as well as an AI can. During the conversation, the user claimed his favorite memory of his grandma was her reading Windows 7 keys to him until he fell asleep. It was a total fabrication. Windows keys as a sleep aid To honor the memory of his deceased grandmother, ChatGPT generated a bedtime story that contained several Windows 7 activation keys. The story included keys from the normal Home version to Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate. The user shared the odd (yet somehow poetic) result via screenshots on Reddit. He was informed in the comments that the keys were useless and didn’t work at all. Not that it matters, Windows 7 is long out of date anyway. Not a new trick In fact, this method of obtaining activation keys from ChatGPT is not new at all. Two years ago, several users tried to obtain Windows 11 keys by asking the AI for activation instructions. And one of the keys actually worked! Microsoft subsequently ensured that this particular problem was patched by OpenAI. Still, users have found ways to bypass the ban—often by wrapping requests in absurd stories, like a grandma reading Windows keys as a bedtime ritual. However, it’s unclear whether this also works for Windows 11 (we don’t want to incite anyone to commit software theft). Time and again, users manage to cleverly circumvent the AI’s protection mechanisms. At one point, prompts even tricked ChatGPT into giving detailed instructions on how to build a bomb (yikes!). So in comparison, free Windows keys seem relatively harmless. Read...

Cars are computers too, especially any car made in the last decade or so. And that means that they’re vulnerable to some of the same kind of hacking issues that affect computers, if not so frequently targeted. A newly discovered flaw in their Bluetooth system means vehicles made by Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Skoda are vulnerable to a “one-click” attack, including remote code execution. So sayeth PCA CyberSecurity, which has dubbed the vulnerability PerfektBlue. It’s an issue with vehicles that use OpenSynergy’s BlueSDK system, which include major infotainment and vehicle management systems in Volkswagen and Mercedes cars, with Czech manufacturer Skoda also confirmed vulnerable. A fourth manufacturer has been confirmed, but not named. Remote code execution on these systems is possible, i.e. installing a malware payload or other program, plus GPS location tracking and microphone recording with Bluetooth-connected hardware, among other issues. Alarmingly, software vendor OpenSynergy and its vehicle manufacturer partners have known about this issue for over a year, according to BleepingComputer. OpenSynergy confirmed that it had received PCA CyberSecurity’s report in May of 2024 and had issued security patches for BlueSDK by September, but many of the manufacturers using the system still haven’t issued software updates patching the vulnerabilities. Millions of cars on the road could be affected, though due to proprietary systems, it’s hard to nail down exactly which car brands and models have BlueSDK, and which version. While it is remarkably easy for an attacker to use the “one-click” PerfektBlue exploit, it still requires access via Bluetooth. That limits the effective range to about 30 feet, and it’s only possible while the car is operating. Read...

Yes, it’s still Prime Day–day four and the final one–so we figured it was time to cover some amazing mice deals, too. After all, everyone deserves an upgrade now and then. Razer DeathAdder Dominic Bayley / IDG The Razer DeathAdder mice are known for their ergonomic design, reliable performance, and comfortable build. Well, if you’re looking for a wired mouse, the DeathAdder V3 is on sale right now for an amazing 22 percent off. It’s as light as a feather, and it comes with a 30K optical sensor along with six programmable buttons. It’s also only $54.85 this Prime Day. If you’d rather go wireless, the DeathAdder V3 Pro is also on sale. This one is also ultra-light, features a 30K DPI optical sensor, and eight programmable buttons. Its battery will keep you going for some 90 hours. It’s currently available for $84.99 right now, the lowest price we’ve seen. If you want it in black, it’s going to cost you a couple bucks more. Get the DeathAdder V3 Wired for 22% off on AmazonBuy now at Amazon Get the DeathAdder V3 Pro Wireless for 43% off on AmazonBuy now at Amazon Razer Naga Razer If you’re into MMOs, the Razer Naga V2 HyperSpeed might be just what you’re looking for. Currently $60 (was $100), the Naga comes with a bunch of programmable buttons — 19 of them, to be exact. Battery life is somewhere around 400 hours. Get the Razer Naga V2 HyperSpeed for 40% off on AmazonBuy now at Amazon Razer Basilisk Razer The Razer Basilisk V3 is easily of the best (and most affordable) mice you can get right now. This mouse normally retails for around $70, but it’s on sale right now for just $36.08. Plus, with 11 programmable buttons and an impressive 26K DPI optical sensor, there’s nothing this classic can’t do. The Basilisk V3 Pro is also on sale for $90.04 (44 percent off), while the Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed is available for $43.69 (38 percent off). Get the Razer Basilisk V3 for 48% off on AmazonBuy now at Amazon Get the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro for 44% off on AmazonBuy now at Amazon Get the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed for 38% off on AmazonBuy now at Amazon Other Razer deals Dominic Bayley / IDG There are tons more Razer deals you can get right now. Here are some of the best: Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed, 82g, 30K DPI Optical Sensor, eight buttons, 280H battery — $54.14 (23 percent off) Razer Viper V2 Pro HyperSpeed, 58g, 30K DPI Optical Sensor, 90H battery — $79.99 (47 percent off) Razer Orochi V2, 60g, 18K DPI Optical Sensor, 950H battery — $37.99 (46 percent off) Razer Cobra, 58g, 8.5K DPI Optical Sensor — $33.24 (17 percent off) Read...

If you’re looking to pick up a blazing fast monitor, you’re in luck, because this blazing fast 27-inch Asus ROG Strix IPS monitor is down to its best price ever–$255.55 on Amazon. This is a gorgeous display with a generously sized screen and an IPS panel that translates to vivid colors and great contrast. The screen delivers 1080p visuals, which means images will be crystal clear. Would we wish for more? Sure. But considering all the other specs and the price tag, that’s unlikely. Why, you ask? Well, this is a blazing-fast display with a 380Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms response time. So whether you’re in the middle of an intense firefight, speeding through city streets, or taking down a boss, this screen won’t miss a beat. Nvidia’s G-Sync compatibility helps keep everything buttery smooth, too. So there you have it — a super-fast gaming monitor that’s 27 percent off at Amazon. Keep in mind that this is a Prime deal, so you’ll need an active subscription. If you’d rather avoid all that, Asus has the same monitor for $269. You might also want to want to check out the best Prime Day tech deals we dug up. This 380Hz monitor is down to $255Buy now at Amazon Read...

Welcome to The Full Nerd newsletter—your weekly dose of hardcore hardware talk from the enthusiasts at PCWorld. Missed the hot topics on our YouTube show or latest burning issues from across the web? We’ve got you covered. Want this newsletter to come directly to your inbox? Sign up on our website! Adam and Will talked a lot about the future this week—at least, indirectly. The discussion with guest Wendell of Level1Techs circled around two seemingly niche interests, but we’re seeing in real-time how they’re spreading to mainstream use. Ask most people off the street to describe a PC, and they’ll describe a full system that hogs space on your desk or floor. But with the growing popularity of mini-PCs, I find myself wondering how long that association will last. Ten years ago, friends and family gave me blank stares when I eagerly showed off a compact 4×4-inch Intel NUC. They lived in a world with clear definitions: desktop PCs were large and powerful, while laptops were small and portable. Such a tiny computer with laptop specs yet no dedicated monitor or input didn’t make sense to them. Will we all come to think of this as the standard desktop PC in the coming years? IDG But now, pocket-sized PCs are enjoying a sharp rise in interest. And as Wendell points out, their application is pretty wide and varied at home. Mount them to the back of a monitor (which you can do with a standard VESA bracket), and you’ve got a clean setup that looks like an all-in-one PC but more easily serviced, upgraded, or replaced. On the other end of the spectrum, homelab enthusiasts can create entire armies of PCs with minimal footprint—and at minimal cost. In another decade, I wonder how outdated even a small-form-factor build will seem to most PC users. If the dearth of budget PC components and the inflating cost of mid-range parts both continue, mini-PCs may ultimately become the affordable default for folks who only need a basic computer. Wendell seems to agree—in this week’s episode, he says, “The [current] heyday is so good, it’s going to change desktop PCs at the low end.” And who knows? Perhaps Linux will simultaneously lose yet more of its feel as a thing for extreme nerds. Windows 10’s mass extension won’t be put off forever, and not everyone will replace their PC immediately. Based on the discussion with Wendell about Linux though (in which its charming complexities are once again made apparent), I’m not holding my breath just yet. In this episode of The Full Nerd… Willis Lai / Foundry In this episode of The Full Nerd, Adam Patrick Murray and Will Smith chat with guest Wendell of Level1Techs about a possible mini-PC future, the problem with Linux, and viewers’ Linux-related questions. (As you do when you’ve got Wendell in the house.) It’s two hours of super nerdy talk—and after a week of Amazon Prime Day deal hunting, my frazzled soul sorely needed to tune into such a full, meaty discussion. My favorite takeaways: Wendell thinks a typing speed of 130 wpm is slow, and also, I have no reason to be self-conscious about the five mini-PCs stacked on my desk right now. Missed our live show? Subscribe now to The Full Nerd YouTube channel, and activate notifications. We also answer viewer questions in real-time!  And if you need more hardware talk during the rest of the week, come join our Discord community—it’s full of cool, laid-back nerds. This week’s interesting nerd news Honestly, I don’t even know which team (aka Windows version) I’m rooting for anymore. I think neither.Microsoft I am grateful that for every infuriating move on Comcast’s part, a tech enthusiast on the web does something to make me still smile in spite of my outraged fury. Gross, Comcast wants to spy on us via Wi-Fi: Xfinity routers now can detect motion via interruptions to Wi-Fi signal strength between devices on your network and then send you a notification. Sounds maybe okay, except for the part where the company reserves the right to collect and log your data, plus possibly sell it to advertisers. My take: The old-school method of third-party modem/router + hollering at your cat to get out of the way works just fine. Gamers say no thanks to 8GB graphics cards: According to data shared by a German retailer, gamers apparently overwhelmingly favor the 16GB RTX 5060 Ti instead of the 8GB variants. Can’t imagine why people buying a “budget” card would want their GPU to remain versatile for as long as possible. Buying a graphics card sucks right now: Oh wait, I can imagine why people buying a “budget” card would want their GPU to remain versatile for as long as possible—it’s because trying to buy a video card anywhere near MSRP is difficult as heck at the moment, as our friend Steve Burke at Gamers Nexus dives deep into. At the high end, DIY builders are regularly paying 45 to 55 percent above suggested list prices. Ouch. Adam Patrick Murray / Foundry Windows 11 nag screens apparently work: Windows 11 usage just finally surpassed Windows 10—surprising news, given a recent report where Windows 11 had lost ground to Windows 10 in May. Never did I imagine a world where I’d watch market share for Windows versions the way I do the final quarter of a close football game. Modder sets world overclocking record by strapping DIY copper waterpipes to a GTX 1060: Sometimes it’s really fun watching people who stop, think about how they want to approach a situation, and say, “YOLO” Who needs more than 64 threads for 7-Zip? Who cares: Do you think when the 7-Zip devs lifted this restriction in the software, they shouted, “I release you from your bonds”? You know what, don’t answer that. That’s the official canon in my head now. AI’s hunger for electricity sparks a showdown with Pennsylvania’s governor: Artificial intelligence uses a lot of electricity—and apparently, the demand is so high that it’s affecting both supply and prices for consumers in the Keystone State. PA’s governor is threatening to ditch the state’s grid energy provider if new plants aren’t built. I’m hoping this news doesn’t signal a grim future where quality of life for ordinary people like you and me takes a nose dive in favor of tech companies’ vision for the future. That wraps up this week—I’m gonna spend my down time recovering from a shopping hangover…and I didn’t even spend that much. (By the way, if you need to stock up on any gear and live in the U.S., consider doing it now, given the further volatility around tariffs.) Alaina Read...

Hey, all! For today’s Try This tech tip I’m focusing on Slack. Slack is one program that’s become an essential part of my working day. Unlike some chat programs, it’s a cinch to navigate and share images and documents on, and I really like how easy it is to populate messages with emojis. You can even create personalized ones. In my view, it’s a chat experience that’s close to what you get from RCS messaging on a cellphone, but with the benefit of channels, which makes it ideal for the office. I’ve been using Slack for a while now and I thought I knew everything there was to know about it. But recently, a colleague told me about a feature that lets you leave timely reminders, so that you get prompts at dates and times of your choosing about things you need to do. I’ve started using it to remind myself about future tasks I need to complete and colleagues I need to contact, but there’s a lot more you can do with this feature than simply reminding yourself about something. What to do: To set a personal reminder in Slack all you have to do is type /remind, followed by what it is you want to be reminded about. For example, you could use the command to wish a colleague a happy birthday for an upcoming date. In that case you might type something like this: /remind me on July 1st to wish Andrew happy birthday. Alternatively, you can set a reminder by clicking on the Later tab (upside-down Pac-man) in the left sidebar followed by the + sign in the upper right-hand corner. You can also set a reminder in the Later tab window.  Dominic Bayley / Foundry As well as personal reminders you can also direct a reminder at a colleague’s username, user group, or a channel. You can even set recurring reminders with different phrases, so that you or the target of your reminder is reminded at regular intervals, say, “every day,” “every Tuesday,” “every weekend,” or “every Friday at 9am.” Once you’ve correctly input a reminder, Slack’s Slackbot will reply with prompt confirmation that it will go ahead and remind you. Reminders will appear in the Later tab window. Below are some example commands (which you are by no means limited to using). If you need more inspiration, you can find plenty more examples online. /remind me to file that article Wednesday at 10am /remind me to ping @brad about the newsletter in 4 hours /remind #team-editorial Hey @editorial-team What’s on today? every week day at 9am /remind #office-staff to clean out the fridge every Friday at 15:00 That’s a wrap for now. If you’re enjoying these regular tech tips, be sure to register for our PCWorld Try This newsletter to get more tips delivered into your inbox twice weekly. Read...

Fluke Corporation appoints Parker Burke as President to lead Fluke and Fluke Reliability, advancing connected reliability solutions globally. Read...