NEWS to do a better job

NEWS to do a better job of informing you of what areas it’s defending within your PC. As part of that proactive process, Microsoft will push you harder to secure your PC. “Account Protection will encourage password users to set up Windows Hello Face, Fingerprint or PIN for faster sign in, and will notify Dynamic lock users if Dynamic lock has stopped working because their phone or device Bluetooth is off,” Microsoft says. Smarter HDR sensing is included within Windows More and more GPUs and displays are gaining HDR capability, though the technology hasn’t quite pushed into the mainstream. Windows is moving in that direction, too. Can your PC support HDR? Windows will let you know here 8 TECH ADVISOR • MAY 2018 Worldmags.net

NEWS If you visit Settings > Apps > Video playback, you’ll see a test video, together with a couple of options. If Windows thinks your PC and display is HDR-capable, you’ll have the option to configure and toggle on HDR video, where applicable. (By default, HDR video uses the full brightness of your screen, so it consumes a little more battery, Microsoft says.) You’ll also see the option for Windows to adjust standard dynamic range (SDR) video to account for ambient lighting, if your PC has the appropriate sensors. Eye tracking gains shortcuts Not everyone will use Eye Control, an eye-tracking technology which Microsoft pitches as an assistive technology. One problem with Eye Control is the laborious steps needed to do anything: You need to focus on a particular icon, then use a precise mouse control to line up the icon you need to interact with. In Build 17093, a series of shortcuts, from to the ‘Start menu’ icon, to Timeline, and to Settings, are available, as is a ‘pause’ icon. ‘Pause’ essentially allows your eyes to wander around the screen and focus on what you wish – a character’s face during a streamed movie, for example – without making Windows think you’re trying to click. A prettier Game Bar Microsoft really wants you to game and stream using its Mixer app, so it’s given the Game Bar a makeover to help you out. There are a number of new icons to toggle off recording, mute your microphone, and more. Worldmags.net MAY 2018 • TECH ADVISOR 9