https://lounge.forum/ Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:25:22 +0000 MyBB https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=57 Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:21:34 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=57
It's one of the applications that has been used most worldwide and on daily basis, but not allowing basic functionality or not having any alternatives was everyone's pain. Being hit with "Pro version" ad, or taking forever to open a single page, or glitching out because AI is initialising in the background.

By far the best alternative I found is Stirling PDF - https://stirling.com/

They do have "Pro" and "Enterprise" versions, but you get 60+ PDF tools for Free. On top of that it loads faster than Adobe PDF due to reduced bloat.

If you want an app for your phone - ReadEra. Although made for books, it loads PDFs on your phone without ads and very quickly, just like Stirling PDF.

I must also warn, Stirling PDF is not great on phones yet. When opening PDFs in non-standard size it takes long to open, and zoom doesn't work correctly as of date.

So these are great alternatives that I've been using that have absolutely no compromises, instead giving you tools that you haven't used yet if you never wanted to subscribe to $12.99 to be able to rotate a page twice a year.]]>
It's one of the applications that has been used most worldwide and on daily basis, but not allowing basic functionality or not having any alternatives was everyone's pain. Being hit with "Pro version" ad, or taking forever to open a single page, or glitching out because AI is initialising in the background.

By far the best alternative I found is Stirling PDF - https://stirling.com/

They do have "Pro" and "Enterprise" versions, but you get 60+ PDF tools for Free. On top of that it loads faster than Adobe PDF due to reduced bloat.

If you want an app for your phone - ReadEra. Although made for books, it loads PDFs on your phone without ads and very quickly, just like Stirling PDF.

I must also warn, Stirling PDF is not great on phones yet. When opening PDFs in non-standard size it takes long to open, and zoom doesn't work correctly as of date.

So these are great alternatives that I've been using that have absolutely no compromises, instead giving you tools that you haven't used yet if you never wanted to subscribe to $12.99 to be able to rotate a page twice a year.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=56 Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:08:15 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=56
When you have the USB ready, there's also a basic checklist to unWindows yourself.

• Backup your C:\ drive
  
• Download Rufus to "burn" image to USB stick (At least 8GB): https://rufus.ie/en/#download
  
• Download Zorin OS: https://zorin.com/os/download/
  
• Write Zorin OS to the USB stick
  
• Check for your motherboard's "BIOS Boot selector key" that will allow you to select the USB to boot from
  
• You may need to re-select your "boot storage device" after Zorin OS is installed, just keep that in mind if you get "No bootable device found" after your install it.
  

Some of the issues encountered:

1. In Windows power settings, make sure to uncheck "Turn on fast startup" - Windows locks drive C:\ when shutting down and may prevent new OS installation
   
2. If on older hardware, sometimes Windows was working with IDE storage configuration, make sure to set BIOS storage to AHCI just so that you're running storage at it's full potential
   
3. Reset overclocking to stock clock speed - Linux is less stable with overclocking and may freeze due to voltage spikes or bad voltage config
   

All things considered, one only other issue is Linux may require you to select a driver for your graphics card. Due to Linux still adapting to new hardware, you may need to play around with what works. You may even reinstall the operating system to retry something.

So far after the upgrade, my system is running smooth, but knowing Linux it's best to have a backup solution.

Things to also consider:

• Zorin OS has a "Software" app that has extensive list of apps that can be installed
  
• LibreOffice is preinstalled, but may look into installing OpenOffice
  
• Download the IDEs, Thunderbird, Steam to get going
  

For the most part software alternatives are already made to work on Linux, and it's nice to see Memory usage at 14% instead of 50% just to idle with 24GB of memory.

If you encounter an issue with freezing, make sure to first try - hold ALT+PrtScn while pressing individual keys R+E+I+S+U+B. The key presses are separate instructions that store, terminate and prepare the system for safe restart.

Often if that doesn't work, your option is likely only to press the reboot button to carry on doing what you need to do.

After getting through the hurdles, I'm glad to have a functioning alternative to Windows and not having to be a lab rat for it's new updates and never ending decisions how to screw you over without giving you any choice.

You won't know if you will be recorded by a ghost "Recall", if your files will be trained on by their AI, or if Copilot comes back to haunt your rented office suite, or files will be copied to OneDrive without your explicit permission, or make you sign in into MS account for any reason even just to boot up your PC first time. They've been looking how to disable local account for a while, which is a big no-no to IT community. It's a big violation of privacy to play with user's data as they please. Also they easily comply with regulations that ask for ID verification/face scan/biometrics planned in the future. It's just too far, and too much to be considered normal.

Old outlook is also to be phased out by 2029, while I'm sure Thunderbird is picking up on the black hole Microsoft is creating.

Another notable thing that comes to mind about Linux, is the speed. It may not be noticeable at times, but some sites will load in fraction of the time. While their "Software" app seems to lag a bit as they don't take advantage of redistributing installers using other people's computers like Windows.

All-in-all, linux can be fiddly and sometimes doesn't allow you to run software that you may need or used to in Windows. I'm hoping Linux will remain true to it's users with minimal bloat and everincreasing support by developers to allow users to have freedom of usage of their own hardware.

It turns out as a bit of "Windows hate", but most will agree that not knowing how your data is being misused and restricted is not a nice feeling.

With their K2 project, I think they will only debloat system, they're very unlikely to undo Copilot, Office subscriptions and Recall may get a new use. 

I'm sure Zorin OS will have it's struggles, especially as all Linux distros, sometimes to install or configure, you may use the terminal to dowload/install a package. But otherwise, it's a capable system worth giving a good shot.]]>
When you have the USB ready, there's also a basic checklist to unWindows yourself.

• Backup your C:\ drive
  
• Download Rufus to "burn" image to USB stick (At least 8GB): https://rufus.ie/en/#download
  
• Download Zorin OS: https://zorin.com/os/download/
  
• Write Zorin OS to the USB stick
  
• Check for your motherboard's "BIOS Boot selector key" that will allow you to select the USB to boot from
  
• You may need to re-select your "boot storage device" after Zorin OS is installed, just keep that in mind if you get "No bootable device found" after your install it.
  

Some of the issues encountered:

1. In Windows power settings, make sure to uncheck "Turn on fast startup" - Windows locks drive C:\ when shutting down and may prevent new OS installation
   
2. If on older hardware, sometimes Windows was working with IDE storage configuration, make sure to set BIOS storage to AHCI just so that you're running storage at it's full potential
   
3. Reset overclocking to stock clock speed - Linux is less stable with overclocking and may freeze due to voltage spikes or bad voltage config
   

All things considered, one only other issue is Linux may require you to select a driver for your graphics card. Due to Linux still adapting to new hardware, you may need to play around with what works. You may even reinstall the operating system to retry something.

So far after the upgrade, my system is running smooth, but knowing Linux it's best to have a backup solution.

Things to also consider:

• Zorin OS has a "Software" app that has extensive list of apps that can be installed
  
• LibreOffice is preinstalled, but may look into installing OpenOffice
  
• Download the IDEs, Thunderbird, Steam to get going
  

For the most part software alternatives are already made to work on Linux, and it's nice to see Memory usage at 14% instead of 50% just to idle with 24GB of memory.

If you encounter an issue with freezing, make sure to first try - hold ALT+PrtScn while pressing individual keys R+E+I+S+U+B. The key presses are separate instructions that store, terminate and prepare the system for safe restart.

Often if that doesn't work, your option is likely only to press the reboot button to carry on doing what you need to do.

After getting through the hurdles, I'm glad to have a functioning alternative to Windows and not having to be a lab rat for it's new updates and never ending decisions how to screw you over without giving you any choice.

You won't know if you will be recorded by a ghost "Recall", if your files will be trained on by their AI, or if Copilot comes back to haunt your rented office suite, or files will be copied to OneDrive without your explicit permission, or make you sign in into MS account for any reason even just to boot up your PC first time. They've been looking how to disable local account for a while, which is a big no-no to IT community. It's a big violation of privacy to play with user's data as they please. Also they easily comply with regulations that ask for ID verification/face scan/biometrics planned in the future. It's just too far, and too much to be considered normal.

Old outlook is also to be phased out by 2029, while I'm sure Thunderbird is picking up on the black hole Microsoft is creating.

Another notable thing that comes to mind about Linux, is the speed. It may not be noticeable at times, but some sites will load in fraction of the time. While their "Software" app seems to lag a bit as they don't take advantage of redistributing installers using other people's computers like Windows.

All-in-all, linux can be fiddly and sometimes doesn't allow you to run software that you may need or used to in Windows. I'm hoping Linux will remain true to it's users with minimal bloat and everincreasing support by developers to allow users to have freedom of usage of their own hardware.

It turns out as a bit of "Windows hate", but most will agree that not knowing how your data is being misused and restricted is not a nice feeling.

With their K2 project, I think they will only debloat system, they're very unlikely to undo Copilot, Office subscriptions and Recall may get a new use. 

I'm sure Zorin OS will have it's struggles, especially as all Linux distros, sometimes to install or configure, you may use the terminal to dowload/install a package. But otherwise, it's a capable system worth giving a good shot.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=55 Sun, 19 Jul 2026 22:24:05 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=55
As hard as Argentina began to push in extra time, the team could not play well together to put a goal through.

Spain was a team that went to the world cup to win and you could see it, they persuaded Argentina to give way. With most of the possession, and 20 shots taken at the goal posts.

The biggest show by Argentina, was Fernandez (Argentina) sending Cubarsi (#22 - Spain) into a front flip:
]]>
As hard as Argentina began to push in extra time, the team could not play well together to put a goal through.

Spain was a team that went to the world cup to win and you could see it, they persuaded Argentina to give way. With most of the possession, and 20 shots taken at the goal posts.

The biggest show by Argentina, was Fernandez (Argentina) sending Cubarsi (#22 - Spain) into a front flip:
]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=54 Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:23:12 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=54
You can get wallpapers that have texture and feel to them, as well as specialized plaster wall finishes that can have a pattern or certain look to them.

e.g. wallpaper with decorative golden strips, or marble looking walls.

Also the type of furniture makes a difference. Glass top tables are nice. At times size needs to be considered to be merciful on shins of your guests.

Interior is your living environment that can set the mood for your life. If it's clean, comfortable and looks good, it can relax and give you needed peace of mind that you're in the right place.

Small things that you don't fix can be a nuisance that can make you worry just enough to throw off your comfort.

If you're not into interior, consider making yourself comfortable just a bit - it makes a huge difference to feeling accomplishment.]]>
You can get wallpapers that have texture and feel to them, as well as specialized plaster wall finishes that can have a pattern or certain look to them.

e.g. wallpaper with decorative golden strips, or marble looking walls.

Also the type of furniture makes a difference. Glass top tables are nice. At times size needs to be considered to be merciful on shins of your guests.

Interior is your living environment that can set the mood for your life. If it's clean, comfortable and looks good, it can relax and give you needed peace of mind that you're in the right place.

Small things that you don't fix can be a nuisance that can make you worry just enough to throw off your comfort.

If you're not into interior, consider making yourself comfortable just a bit - it makes a huge difference to feeling accomplishment.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=53 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 21:20:14 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=53
It's more engaging to see interesting topics, and minimises navigating.

Although categories are structured, users rarely stick to just one topic to go straight to specific discussion category.]]>
It's more engaging to see interesting topics, and minimises navigating.

Although categories are structured, users rarely stick to just one topic to go straight to specific discussion category.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=52 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 21:12:48 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=52  Better than any social media to post and share personal thoughts.

https://lounge.forum will be growing only exponentially with like-minded people that want to feel comfortable posting their whole outlook on their interests and daily thoughts.

Although not forbidden, this space doesn't need to "make news" for even more worries, this is where you can relax and share honest opinions without concerning yourself with limitations and toxicity of other social media platforms.

Expressing yourself shouldn't be bottled up or limited to who you can talk to.

Let's keep growing!]]>  Better than any social media to post and share personal thoughts.

https://lounge.forum will be growing only exponentially with like-minded people that want to feel comfortable posting their whole outlook on their interests and daily thoughts.

Although not forbidden, this space doesn't need to "make news" for even more worries, this is where you can relax and share honest opinions without concerning yourself with limitations and toxicity of other social media platforms.

Expressing yourself shouldn't be bottled up or limited to who you can talk to.

Let's keep growing!]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=51 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 20:57:12 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=51
Colour to be changed to something darker to be easy on the eyes and the stories to put night readers to sleep easier.]]>
Colour to be changed to something darker to be easy on the eyes and the stories to put night readers to sleep easier.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=50 Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:43:26 +0000 burro]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=50
Some use MS Access to store and manage data, and with Windows updating their T&Cs to own every soul that has it installed.

The rush for user data is behind the scenes agenda to provide quality data about individuals, for overall "security" and "accuracy" on your insurance.

Most times it feels like they're working backwards - data required, how to get it on the system, get users to use it.

Linked in was so good at it, that it seems to be the only reason Microsoft bought them. Now you're linked to people that you talk to digitally even before you add them anywhere.

Meta is in the same pond. They have every cellphone number, and cover by making some business and AI subscriptions.

So a lot of services resort to saying "we may share your data with third party providers", and that pretty much is a wildcard to do whatever they like and when they get caught, they get a parking ticket in fines to pay.

All the concerns above and ongoing squeeze of privacy, alternatives often begin to look more enticing to lift the concerns and move on.
Back to MS Access compatibility issue, looks like instead of waiting for Linux support, it's time to migrate to another application that can do the same job.

The disadvantage with Linux e.g. Ubuntu distro, is that it's often updated to have new look, minor patches, but even one unsuccessful tinkering moment you're left with a brick. So don't jump too far too fast.
Some prefer Fedora and Mint due to their stability. Ubuntu is beginner friendly testing ground that can do everything, but it also depends what you're looking to do if you have to have specific functionality.

As few examples:

• Ubuntu (provider - Canonical) - polished interface and functionality.
  
• Mint (From Ubuntu LTS, provider - Canonical) - overall just stable OS, the middle ground
  
• Fedora (provider - Red Hat) - up to date software if you have brand new PC or need latest software
  
• Ageless (community driven) - removes and forbids any kind of identification that is being introduced by "5 eyes", the countries that are abusing privacy for "security" for the last 2 decades.
  
• POP_! OS - for designers and gamers
  
• OpenSuse - more for system management, very flexible configuration, for low powered devices and enterprise hardware.
  
• Kali - specialized for "senior" Linux guys that work with more than 1 machine and deal with computer security.
  
• Zorin OS - Windows like behaviour and interface
  
• ... if you want me to list all 600 distros and what they do - don't hold your breath, because no one knows. It's more of word of mouth and praise of their community that makes them more popular. Just like Mint is a spinoff from Ubuntu, a lot of other distros are based on other distros as well. e.g. Manjaro based on Arch.
  

So if you're looking for distro, just pick what you do more of. A lot of users are locked with Windows though due to working environment or requirement for software. For everyday use, it's just like using Mac instead of Windows, except instead of spending, you get to use opensource software that doesn't cost a dime. 

Due to budget friendly community, you can expect a bit less of a flashy software as well. e.g. Mozilla Thunderbird - it's very flexible, but you must be indifferent to it's look if you don't instinctively go to find a theme. It does have themes, so try them out first thing after setting up your email.

Although, it seems as if everyone has extended knowledge of distros, the reality is that very few professionals have experimented with large number of distros. So if you're looking to test drive a new OS to take advantage of it's light weigh/debloat and speed up your system, just make a choice depending on where you are and what you're looking for out of the box. It makes little difference really, it's mostly the drive e.g. POP_!OS attracts creators. If you begin to have trouble doing something, or some issued are not easy to resolve even with community, then just look up the distro community that solves your issues better - that's why there're so many distros, everyone needs different branches of functionality more in depth.  

Technically Linux distros are the same across the board, the only difference is what they have and what their icons and start menu look like. The distro is more of a fashion statement in the PC world rather than major functionality difference, as you can often install what you need. The most that I've seen that makes real difference is the CPU and GPU which require specific support. For older hardware just about any distro should do, newer PCs is where most get caught. e.g. Steam OS (not available for PCs at the moment) mostly supports AMD, while Intel is buggy. So in some cases latest support is more crucial than other features. If you're running system components from before 2023-2024, distros become just a preference of overall feel because hardware support is mostly polished.

If you're new and looking to install Linux on your laptop, then Ubuntu or Mint is likely the best option. If your laptop has something like a fingerprint reader, on Fedora you will need to install it manually, which is not difficult, but not beginner friendly introduction to new OS when your laptop doesn't function in it's entirety, or you may even think OS is not good because it "doesn't have it" and requires tinkering which can take down your new system.

Every computer guy came across tutorials that have at least one questionable directory that prevents you going through the manual installation steps. A folder doesn't exist, or something is in different directory, or you got jdk mixed up with jde. So as a rule it's best to have preconfigured/preinstalled software. That's where "if it's not broken, don't fix it" applies.

So yeah, after using mostly windows, it's not something that wants to provide users with personal choices, the biggest dealbreaker is disregard for privacy that tips users over into Linux. What holds Linux distros is different universe that requires new adaptation by the users or even abandonment of existing software and learning alternatives. 

Due to windows being for profit, they're maximizing where they can.
So far in windows we've seen:

• MS Store Ads in start menu e.g. candycrush
  
• "Settings" that supposed to replace Control Panel, does half of what you need.
  
• MS account requirement for their software
  
• OneDrive moving your files and uploading it like it owns it creating duplicate directories that you realise only later on that you need to undo
  
• Then account requirement to start using new PC/laptop
  
• Bing Wallpaper - could've been made 20 years earlier, with perfect wallpaper views, come June pride - your PC automatically flying flag colours of "minor attracted people"
  
• Edge - same as Bing wallpaper - an update shows you a "brand new theme to celebrate a spectrum of identities". Such manipulation and influence to use common computer for ideology is likely when the Edge use tanked.  
  
• Preloading of Defender, XBox stuff for some reason, Edge that went from clean and fast to "reward bloatware" copilot, picture viewer, video player, phone connect
  
• MS Office - subscription only with pretty much discontinued support for offline use
  
• Right click context menu "loading...", important options hidden under "view more".
  

Today, in Windows 11, it can take most modern computers with 12 cores and 16GB RAM to open notepad/calculator/task manager or most times even file explorer a few seconds to open.  


Windows 7 - as if remastered Win XP, was the last best version we got to use as telemetry started taking off. Vista (before Win 7 ) - bloat test. Win 8 - no comment. Win 10 - testing all the boundaries. Win 11 - breaking all of them.

Microsoft seems to have announced it's K2 project that debloats itself, but at this stage some things are "standard" that you still won't have control over. Definitely excessive telemetry, account linking and user device tracking are there to stay, features of Win 11 with performance of Linux is what they will primarily go for - this version is better for the users and fast, so users won't mind few things staying. So will be worth trying, but it's to keep users, not to exclude what users don't like. All those additions are still part of their explanation to major investors as positive progress and growth.

Microsoft made a promise that Win 10 would be the last OS. They missed out on a massive opportunity to optimize then create good software, e.g. take on Adobe to make alternative software for users, because rotating a PDF shouldn't cost you $20. Mac understood the assignment. Windows relied on purchase of new OS by PC manufacturers and datacentres. We saw attempts with some software, but they went after media e.g. half functioning video player, which has the best functioning free alternative - VLC. It's apparent that their software is supposed to work with OneDrive and cloud storage type of deal.

"We made it better for you even though you didn't ask for it" model doesn't work.

All in all, the space for user choice is splitting and as a user worth considering choices between Win/Linux/iOS for everyday user. 

• Windows - needs to listen to the users
  
• Linux - needs a breakthrough for software independence and large use
  
• iOS - works if your pocket does.
  

]]>
Some use MS Access to store and manage data, and with Windows updating their T&Cs to own every soul that has it installed.

The rush for user data is behind the scenes agenda to provide quality data about individuals, for overall "security" and "accuracy" on your insurance.

Most times it feels like they're working backwards - data required, how to get it on the system, get users to use it.

Linked in was so good at it, that it seems to be the only reason Microsoft bought them. Now you're linked to people that you talk to digitally even before you add them anywhere.

Meta is in the same pond. They have every cellphone number, and cover by making some business and AI subscriptions.

So a lot of services resort to saying "we may share your data with third party providers", and that pretty much is a wildcard to do whatever they like and when they get caught, they get a parking ticket in fines to pay.

All the concerns above and ongoing squeeze of privacy, alternatives often begin to look more enticing to lift the concerns and move on.
Back to MS Access compatibility issue, looks like instead of waiting for Linux support, it's time to migrate to another application that can do the same job.

The disadvantage with Linux e.g. Ubuntu distro, is that it's often updated to have new look, minor patches, but even one unsuccessful tinkering moment you're left with a brick. So don't jump too far too fast.
Some prefer Fedora and Mint due to their stability. Ubuntu is beginner friendly testing ground that can do everything, but it also depends what you're looking to do if you have to have specific functionality.

As few examples:

• Ubuntu (provider - Canonical) - polished interface and functionality.
  
• Mint (From Ubuntu LTS, provider - Canonical) - overall just stable OS, the middle ground
  
• Fedora (provider - Red Hat) - up to date software if you have brand new PC or need latest software
  
• Ageless (community driven) - removes and forbids any kind of identification that is being introduced by "5 eyes", the countries that are abusing privacy for "security" for the last 2 decades.
  
• POP_! OS - for designers and gamers
  
• OpenSuse - more for system management, very flexible configuration, for low powered devices and enterprise hardware.
  
• Kali - specialized for "senior" Linux guys that work with more than 1 machine and deal with computer security.
  
• Zorin OS - Windows like behaviour and interface
  
• ... if you want me to list all 600 distros and what they do - don't hold your breath, because no one knows. It's more of word of mouth and praise of their community that makes them more popular. Just like Mint is a spinoff from Ubuntu, a lot of other distros are based on other distros as well. e.g. Manjaro based on Arch.
  

So if you're looking for distro, just pick what you do more of. A lot of users are locked with Windows though due to working environment or requirement for software. For everyday use, it's just like using Mac instead of Windows, except instead of spending, you get to use opensource software that doesn't cost a dime. 

Due to budget friendly community, you can expect a bit less of a flashy software as well. e.g. Mozilla Thunderbird - it's very flexible, but you must be indifferent to it's look if you don't instinctively go to find a theme. It does have themes, so try them out first thing after setting up your email.

Although, it seems as if everyone has extended knowledge of distros, the reality is that very few professionals have experimented with large number of distros. So if you're looking to test drive a new OS to take advantage of it's light weigh/debloat and speed up your system, just make a choice depending on where you are and what you're looking for out of the box. It makes little difference really, it's mostly the drive e.g. POP_!OS attracts creators. If you begin to have trouble doing something, or some issued are not easy to resolve even with community, then just look up the distro community that solves your issues better - that's why there're so many distros, everyone needs different branches of functionality more in depth.  

Technically Linux distros are the same across the board, the only difference is what they have and what their icons and start menu look like. The distro is more of a fashion statement in the PC world rather than major functionality difference, as you can often install what you need. The most that I've seen that makes real difference is the CPU and GPU which require specific support. For older hardware just about any distro should do, newer PCs is where most get caught. e.g. Steam OS (not available for PCs at the moment) mostly supports AMD, while Intel is buggy. So in some cases latest support is more crucial than other features. If you're running system components from before 2023-2024, distros become just a preference of overall feel because hardware support is mostly polished.

If you're new and looking to install Linux on your laptop, then Ubuntu or Mint is likely the best option. If your laptop has something like a fingerprint reader, on Fedora you will need to install it manually, which is not difficult, but not beginner friendly introduction to new OS when your laptop doesn't function in it's entirety, or you may even think OS is not good because it "doesn't have it" and requires tinkering which can take down your new system.

Every computer guy came across tutorials that have at least one questionable directory that prevents you going through the manual installation steps. A folder doesn't exist, or something is in different directory, or you got jdk mixed up with jde. So as a rule it's best to have preconfigured/preinstalled software. That's where "if it's not broken, don't fix it" applies.

So yeah, after using mostly windows, it's not something that wants to provide users with personal choices, the biggest dealbreaker is disregard for privacy that tips users over into Linux. What holds Linux distros is different universe that requires new adaptation by the users or even abandonment of existing software and learning alternatives. 

Due to windows being for profit, they're maximizing where they can.
So far in windows we've seen:

• MS Store Ads in start menu e.g. candycrush
  
• "Settings" that supposed to replace Control Panel, does half of what you need.
  
• MS account requirement for their software
  
• OneDrive moving your files and uploading it like it owns it creating duplicate directories that you realise only later on that you need to undo
  
• Then account requirement to start using new PC/laptop
  
• Bing Wallpaper - could've been made 20 years earlier, with perfect wallpaper views, come June pride - your PC automatically flying flag colours of "minor attracted people"
  
• Edge - same as Bing wallpaper - an update shows you a "brand new theme to celebrate a spectrum of identities". Such manipulation and influence to use common computer for ideology is likely when the Edge use tanked.  
  
• Preloading of Defender, XBox stuff for some reason, Edge that went from clean and fast to "reward bloatware" copilot, picture viewer, video player, phone connect
  
• MS Office - subscription only with pretty much discontinued support for offline use
  
• Right click context menu "loading...", important options hidden under "view more".
  

Today, in Windows 11, it can take most modern computers with 12 cores and 16GB RAM to open notepad/calculator/task manager or most times even file explorer a few seconds to open.  


Windows 7 - as if remastered Win XP, was the last best version we got to use as telemetry started taking off. Vista (before Win 7 ) - bloat test. Win 8 - no comment. Win 10 - testing all the boundaries. Win 11 - breaking all of them.

Microsoft seems to have announced it's K2 project that debloats itself, but at this stage some things are "standard" that you still won't have control over. Definitely excessive telemetry, account linking and user device tracking are there to stay, features of Win 11 with performance of Linux is what they will primarily go for - this version is better for the users and fast, so users won't mind few things staying. So will be worth trying, but it's to keep users, not to exclude what users don't like. All those additions are still part of their explanation to major investors as positive progress and growth.

Microsoft made a promise that Win 10 would be the last OS. They missed out on a massive opportunity to optimize then create good software, e.g. take on Adobe to make alternative software for users, because rotating a PDF shouldn't cost you $20. Mac understood the assignment. Windows relied on purchase of new OS by PC manufacturers and datacentres. We saw attempts with some software, but they went after media e.g. half functioning video player, which has the best functioning free alternative - VLC. It's apparent that their software is supposed to work with OneDrive and cloud storage type of deal.

"We made it better for you even though you didn't ask for it" model doesn't work.

All in all, the space for user choice is splitting and as a user worth considering choices between Win/Linux/iOS for everyday user. 

• Windows - needs to listen to the users
  
• Linux - needs a breakthrough for software independence and large use
  
• iOS - works if your pocket does.
  

]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=49 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:10:31 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=49
What makes great movies great is that they're written as a story and not just a movie. 


  dune3.jpg (Size: 94.34 KB / Downloads: 6)

If part one and two got you interested, then it's for you. 

The part that I missed at first is why they use air snorkels. Well, they're not breathing extra oxygen, they're collecting their own exhaled moisture as an adaptation to the planet's environment meant to reuse majority of their water. 

If I would get something stuck up my nostrils, I would lose water through my eyes..

I think Zendaya acts well to not put you out of immersion. The main dude going nuts is questionable, but how else do you bend character behaviour for the plot. Will this be a movie about a guy going nuts, or perseveering for one in a million outcome? - I think that's where the interest lies.

Overall the cast is solid from the start - with popular actors and actresses. Likely very anticipated by ladies, they seem to love this movie franchise for it's emotional rollecoaster. For guys, it's likely slightly insane how characters lose themselves, but the original writer of "Dune (1969)" is a guy (Frank Herbert), so it still makes sense to watch. Although there's 20+ books of "dune universe" so this is by far not the last part, this is hollywood's "Fast and Furious" moment.

• My anticipation 6/10 - keen to watch something different and already familiar.
  
• Production is 10/10, so definetely immersive type of movie which works with the flow of storytelling. Production guys are gold while acting and directing gets the credit.
  
• Logic - it's not that type of movie. Dragonfly helicopters are fine.
  
• Not a chick flick anymore, this is serious - guy got bald.
  

]]>
What makes great movies great is that they're written as a story and not just a movie. 


  dune3.jpg (Size: 94.34 KB / Downloads: 6)

If part one and two got you interested, then it's for you. 

The part that I missed at first is why they use air snorkels. Well, they're not breathing extra oxygen, they're collecting their own exhaled moisture as an adaptation to the planet's environment meant to reuse majority of their water. 

If I would get something stuck up my nostrils, I would lose water through my eyes..

I think Zendaya acts well to not put you out of immersion. The main dude going nuts is questionable, but how else do you bend character behaviour for the plot. Will this be a movie about a guy going nuts, or perseveering for one in a million outcome? - I think that's where the interest lies.

Overall the cast is solid from the start - with popular actors and actresses. Likely very anticipated by ladies, they seem to love this movie franchise for it's emotional rollecoaster. For guys, it's likely slightly insane how characters lose themselves, but the original writer of "Dune (1969)" is a guy (Frank Herbert), so it still makes sense to watch. Although there's 20+ books of "dune universe" so this is by far not the last part, this is hollywood's "Fast and Furious" moment.

• My anticipation 6/10 - keen to watch something different and already familiar.
  
• Production is 10/10, so definetely immersive type of movie which works with the flow of storytelling. Production guys are gold while acting and directing gets the credit.
  
• Logic - it's not that type of movie. Dragonfly helicopters are fine.
  
• Not a chick flick anymore, this is serious - guy got bald.
  

]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=48 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 20:05:01 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=48
They are 3 variations that differ with increased capabilities in the same order.

Sol is promising to make use of multiple agents to separately process requirements that have the same goal. e.g. aimed at developers who need to write code, design interface and manage databases. As any AI, it can be used for general question/answer.

It's yet a new frontier of AI. When using Sol, it spins up agents that breakdown large tasks into smaller steps. This helps with precision and quality of answers. As well as the new problem - it can sometimes do "more than asked". So when you write a prompt without specifisity, it will think deeply about what you need and what could be missing and take it upon itself to implement extra work and results.

Thinking models were created just for that, to try and clear up ambiguity, then act from "clarified" parameters - finishing thoughts on your behalf.

Now that the world is hooked on AI and can't affrd it monthly, you can get your bill for the usage:

• Sol million tokens in - $5 / $30 out 
  
• Terra million tokens in - $2.50 / $15 out 
  
• Luna million tokens in $1 / $6 out
  

This release of GPT was available only to vetted users thorugh Open AI on July 9th, as they don't want it to be in the wrong hands from the get go. And with a slow rollout some users are starting to see the model available in their UI.

Also such changes to AI now seem to require government approval to make sure it doesn't cause damage, and is restricted enough to be used by the public.

Some optimization was done to make it respond faster with less compute.

While OpenAI is making progress making universal type of AI tool, Deepseek is not too far behind. Flagship models can now cache prompts to save tokens, and keep previous context in mind to know your preferences better, so now you really need to be careful what you share with your artificial companion.]]>
They are 3 variations that differ with increased capabilities in the same order.

Sol is promising to make use of multiple agents to separately process requirements that have the same goal. e.g. aimed at developers who need to write code, design interface and manage databases. As any AI, it can be used for general question/answer.

It's yet a new frontier of AI. When using Sol, it spins up agents that breakdown large tasks into smaller steps. This helps with precision and quality of answers. As well as the new problem - it can sometimes do "more than asked". So when you write a prompt without specifisity, it will think deeply about what you need and what could be missing and take it upon itself to implement extra work and results.

Thinking models were created just for that, to try and clear up ambiguity, then act from "clarified" parameters - finishing thoughts on your behalf.

Now that the world is hooked on AI and can't affrd it monthly, you can get your bill for the usage:

• Sol million tokens in - $5 / $30 out 
  
• Terra million tokens in - $2.50 / $15 out 
  
• Luna million tokens in $1 / $6 out
  

This release of GPT was available only to vetted users thorugh Open AI on July 9th, as they don't want it to be in the wrong hands from the get go. And with a slow rollout some users are starting to see the model available in their UI.

Also such changes to AI now seem to require government approval to make sure it doesn't cause damage, and is restricted enough to be used by the public.

Some optimization was done to make it respond faster with less compute.

While OpenAI is making progress making universal type of AI tool, Deepseek is not too far behind. Flagship models can now cache prompts to save tokens, and keep previous context in mind to know your preferences better, so now you really need to be careful what you share with your artificial companion.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=47 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:37:35 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=47
Somehow completely Korean packaging ended up on the shelves, with pretty enticing packaging that promises some taste other than chicken flavoured salt.

• First time trying - empties the packet, waits for it, tries it, ends up blowing in tissues.
  
• Second time - put less spices
  
• Third time - entire packet is actually better for taste, I will keep tissues nearby
  

That was my experience with them. But at some stage I came across information that it contains so much sodium, that regular consumption gives people kidneystones.

Something that turns you yellow, gives you back pain and requires a doctor's visit - maybe not a great product to indulge in.

Tasty though. What other nice and spicy "everyday" meals that would be good to try?]]>
Somehow completely Korean packaging ended up on the shelves, with pretty enticing packaging that promises some taste other than chicken flavoured salt.

• First time trying - empties the packet, waits for it, tries it, ends up blowing in tissues.
  
• Second time - put less spices
  
• Third time - entire packet is actually better for taste, I will keep tissues nearby
  

That was my experience with them. But at some stage I came across information that it contains so much sodium, that regular consumption gives people kidneystones.

Something that turns you yellow, gives you back pain and requires a doctor's visit - maybe not a great product to indulge in.

Tasty though. What other nice and spicy "everyday" meals that would be good to try?]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=46 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:22:41 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=46

• mRNA vaccines - they promise the world, if they don't clot you up. Taken too lightly on what it is. It literally circumvents body functions to demand body reaction.
  
• cancer vaccines - now that few countries came out making progress, they will be competing who says they can do more. Final product coming right after fusion reactors.
  
• off topic related: fusion reactors - energy plant research started in 1932, scientists still say "coming soon, in about 30 years" for the last 90 years.
  
• tooth enamel regeneration - in human trials, TBA 2027
  
• something about reversing aging - very likely all companies bought out 100 times and got handed new NDA's
  

What's cooking in other bat labs - everything that we don't want probably.]]>

• mRNA vaccines - they promise the world, if they don't clot you up. Taken too lightly on what it is. It literally circumvents body functions to demand body reaction.
  
• cancer vaccines - now that few countries came out making progress, they will be competing who says they can do more. Final product coming right after fusion reactors.
  
• off topic related: fusion reactors - energy plant research started in 1932, scientists still say "coming soon, in about 30 years" for the last 90 years.
  
• tooth enamel regeneration - in human trials, TBA 2027
  
• something about reversing aging - very likely all companies bought out 100 times and got handed new NDA's
  

What's cooking in other bat labs - everything that we don't want probably.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=45 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:10:35 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=45
Busy individuals in their flow don't notice a change.

Weather is looking good for the weekend. Time to make some plans and go shopping for things. 

A lightbulb went out that I need to replace, catch up on personal chores, and re-energize.]]>
Busy individuals in their flow don't notice a change.

Weather is looking good for the weekend. Time to make some plans and go shopping for things. 

A lightbulb went out that I need to replace, catch up on personal chores, and re-energize.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=44 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:01:24 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=44
Recommendations for specific change are welcome, even the order of topics.]]>
Recommendations for specific change are welcome, even the order of topics.]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=43 Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:49:15 +0000 BoxPressured]]> https://lounge.forum/showthread.php?tid=43
Social media is frying out brains to rely on them to be satisfied with what's around you. But it's a hack of human nature that requires you to interact with your surroundings.

Making use of yourself and to gain that consistency it takes some time getting used to, but it's necessary to make real changes long-term. Being blinded or isolated makes you feel like everything is going ok, and you don't need much. That's a mediocre lifestyle. To achieve your best self, you need to do something that challenges your interests. Make plans for holidays, go to new places, write a message to someone you haven't spoken with for a while. But make a dedicated effort somewhere. Don't make a point of succeeding in everything either - your work may interrupt your plans, or someone ghosts you. Keep in mind that you want to experience more than "nothing" that social media offers.

Work on your schedule to read, exercise, make plans or take on your own project that you think can ground you to the reality rather than mental illnesses of the internet.

If you're not that self aware, just check your phone usage and reflect on what you've gained. If you're not communicating with others and scrolling entertainment, it won't benefit you in any way. If you think it's a lifestyle that many live, you would be right and wrong. 

"Introverts" often don't like to get involved in physical world and rather peak at their interests on the internet. "Extroverts" think less and have nothing to do on the internet even for entertainment, social issues sometimes catch their attention.

What makes you feel alive is expanding your frontiers in real life. So put aside some time to read a book, take a walk, work out exercises that you can do well to keep you active.

What else am I missing? What can bring joy to everyday people in a surprising way while growing personally?]]>
Social media is frying out brains to rely on them to be satisfied with what's around you. But it's a hack of human nature that requires you to interact with your surroundings.

Making use of yourself and to gain that consistency it takes some time getting used to, but it's necessary to make real changes long-term. Being blinded or isolated makes you feel like everything is going ok, and you don't need much. That's a mediocre lifestyle. To achieve your best self, you need to do something that challenges your interests. Make plans for holidays, go to new places, write a message to someone you haven't spoken with for a while. But make a dedicated effort somewhere. Don't make a point of succeeding in everything either - your work may interrupt your plans, or someone ghosts you. Keep in mind that you want to experience more than "nothing" that social media offers.

Work on your schedule to read, exercise, make plans or take on your own project that you think can ground you to the reality rather than mental illnesses of the internet.

If you're not that self aware, just check your phone usage and reflect on what you've gained. If you're not communicating with others and scrolling entertainment, it won't benefit you in any way. If you think it's a lifestyle that many live, you would be right and wrong. 

"Introverts" often don't like to get involved in physical world and rather peak at their interests on the internet. "Extroverts" think less and have nothing to do on the internet even for entertainment, social issues sometimes catch their attention.

What makes you feel alive is expanding your frontiers in real life. So put aside some time to read a book, take a walk, work out exercises that you can do well to keep you active.

What else am I missing? What can bring joy to everyday people in a surprising way while growing personally?]]>