Month: December 2022

How to erase backgrounds in our pictures

At some point in your life, you have ended up playing with your cellphone camera or digital camera. You’ve taken a selfie or asked someone to take a picture of you with a group of friends, but you end up noticing that the background of the photo completely clashes with the rest.

You may have had extra people you didn’t want in the background, or simply the place where you took the photo leaves a lot to be desired, yet everything else in the photo is perfect. So, you’ve probably thought to yourself, “How can I remove that background?”

Well, believe it or not, there are a lot of options, and they are all within reach of your cell phone. Mobile apps called “background remover” with the most ideal option to get rid of those backgrounds or even edit the photo as you want. In both Android and IOS, you can enjoy them by downloading them from the store corresponding to your operating system.

So here we will recommend the best ones to solve these setbacks and you can make the most of those special photos with friends.

Adobe Express

Among the most popular editing applications, Adobe Express is arguably the most popular. It is a simple and fast app that gives us several editing options and among them is the one to remove backgrounds from photos.

By simply uploading the image, we only need to press “remove background,” and it will cut out the people found in the photo so that we can customize it to our liking.

Adobe Express offers its service for free, but it requires us to create an Adobe account. This way, we will be able to enjoy the application in exchange for giving our data to the company that will send us advertisements and the like. Additionally, the application will constantly show us a message asking us to subscribe to its premium version.

This version has several added features that we will surely enjoy, but it is up to us whether we want to use it or not.

How to erase backgrounds in our pictures

Remove.bg

Not so long ago, we didn’t have free options in apps to remove backgrounds in our photos, so the first option was to go online and head to remove.bg without hesitation. Its excellent results spoke for the site, which made it quite famous.

Today their app doesn’t differ much from the service their site used to provide, but it has increased its versatility a lot. The fact that it specializes only in background removal has made it especially good in this area.

The app is straightforward, plus free, and without annoying ads. In addition to that, the app not only removes the background but allows you to edit it in a single step if what you need is speed.

It is currently only available for Android.

How to erase backgrounds in our pictures

Erase.bg

If you were interested in remove.bg, Erase.bg is another similar application that prioritizes speed first and foremost. By simply installing it and giving it the necessary permissions, we can quickly load the image and remove the background. If we have the image within a website, we can even add the image using a URL.

The application also allows you to add backgrounds of different types: plain colors, patterns, various motifs, and much more. With a maximum of 5000 x 5000 pixels, any mobile photo qualifies to be edited quickly in this app.

Unlike remove.bg this one is also available for iOS and is also free of charge and without ads.

How to erase backgrounds in our pictures

PhotoRoom

If you are not only looking to remove the background, but also an application that helps you to edit it later, PhotoRoom seems to be the right solution. This application allows you to edit the photo afterward, as well as decorate those photos where we remove the background.

It has an intuitive use that does not need much experience, and just by installing and running it, we will be loading our photo to modify. By pressing “Start from a photo” we will remove the background completely and we will see the different editing possibilities and additions that come with the app.

PhotoRoom is available for both iOS and Android. Plus, its Pro version gives us unique extra editing features that we must buy if we can do it.

How to erase backgrounds in our pictures

YouCam Perfect

Finally, if you want to enjoy several functions without having to pay, YouCam Perfect is a perfect application. Both when it comes to removing backgrounds and customizing the photo, this app has several completely free tools to help us.

Just like the previous apps, it is intuitive to use. Just by uploading your image and selecting the cropping tools, you will quickly get what you want to remove from the background. Once this is done, the time for editing begins.

There are thousands of possibilities when it comes to adding backgrounds, creating collages, additional editions and much more. Whether we have an iOS or Android device, we will surely enjoy this app to the fullest.

How to erase backgrounds in our pictures

Meet Addy, an AI email assistant that helps you write emails 10x faster

We’ve been publishing a lot of content about a new writing AI technology called ChatGPT lately. It looks like developers are making use of this new open-source system. Meet Addy, a new program that integrates with your Gmail to complete emails and respond on your behalf.

The Addy AI system has been in development for a few weeks now. It works by asking for the preferred tone you want to write in, completing your emails in record time. For it to be efficient, you need to integrate it with your Gmail account. It will take a few emails for it to learn your style and how you like to reply before it becomes automated.

Let’s look at the pros of Addy. There are many people out there who don’t know how to respond to emails properly. They stare at the screen, wondering what the best type of response would be. What would usually take me a few seconds to compile may take someone else an hour, as an example. Addy eliminates this frustration, completing the email within seconds for you to check.

Addy AI can write emails quickly

So, what are the cons? Based on the description of Addy, it looks like it only works with Gmail for now. Also, you’re giving it access to your accounts. Even though the developer says it doesn’t store or steal information, it’s still risky. Imagine a hacker gains control of the Addy system and infiltrates your emails and personal details.

It’s also putting those of us who write emails for companies out of work. Sure, that’s a pro for companies who want to save money on paying for content. Yet, it’s another example of technology taking food away from humans who need to eat and feed their families.

But just like the industrial revolution and factories did the same thing, us writers will find a way to evolve and find a new use for our skills. For now, Addy is in Beta testing for anyone who wants to sign up and see how the AI can benefit them.

Check the Craziest Twitter Reactions to Greta Thunberg Responding to Andrew Tate’s Mocking Tweet

Here’s what happens when you try to mock someone on Twitter who’s passionate about the environment in the public eye: they hit back. Andrew Tate thought he had one up on environmentalist Greta Thunberg. She surprised him and everyone else when she responded in a way that had everyone laughing, dying, and commenting like crazy.

Let’s start at the beginning. Andrew Tate is a self-professed misogynist and sexist who believes you are all cowards for not achieving anything in life. He clearly had some issues with teenage environmentalist Greta Thunberg making a speech about how humans contribute to emissions and destroying the planet. He decided to post on Twitter that he would gladly send her a list of his car collection and how many emissions they deliver to the planet.

Her response? 

Twitter reactions to Greta Thunberg response

Boom! Adult influencer slammed by a teenager, and a female at that. Twitter went rampant for a few hours, with many commenting on how she had slapped him so hard with her comeback. And all he could muster back at that moment was, “How dare you!?” 

The types of comments were insanely hilarious, and here are only a few examples of them:

There were plenty more, but it’s clear that Tate didn’t have any proper response at the time. Greta didn’t add to the conversation, and it’s clear that she didn’t need to. Personally, I’m glad to see her stand up for herself and the environment against this cyberbully who only cares about himself and his wealth. Karma has a funny way of catching up with you. There are more personal ways that cars and emissions can kill.

So, did Tate ever find a good comeback? Well, he had a comeback, but I wouldn’t say it’s good. He basically turned her response back on her, pretending it was a reflection of her. Had it been done sooner after her response, it might have saved him. Instead, commenters went to town trying to explain her joke to him as if he’s an imbecile.

AI in 2023: What can we expect?

Even though AI has been creeping into more and more of our daily lives for a while now, it feels like 2022 has been the year when it has really broken through into the public’s consciousness. Interestingly, it is not scarily inaccurate and equally dystopian biometric facial recognition, or that public governance is increasingly being delegated to automated decision-making systems that struggle to understand who most of us are that has done it. Rather, everybody is talking about AI because of the creative flourishes it has shown this year, as major generative protocols such as DALL-E 2, Stable Diffusion, and most recently ChatGPT have come into the public domain.

ChatGPT Access Now

These powerful AI engines combined with the almost infinite creativity of the internet have come together to create some truly breathtaking works of art and literature, as well as all sorts of unique creative and useful endeavors, piquing everybody’s interest. It is in this context then, that we are peering into 2023 to see what we can expect from AI. Behind us, we have a year of impressive commercial AI applications overlaid onto a complicated mix of broader and more insidious applications that are starting to have real sway over how the world around us is run and what our place is in it. Let’s take a look.

AI vs Search Engines?

One of the big things that has come out of the rapid rise of ChatGPT, is its ability to offer rich and impressive responses to queries and prompts that look a lot like search terms you’d type into Google. In fact, the New York Times recently said we are going through a code red moment for search and developers have even built Chrome plugins that will automatically overlay ChatGPT responses onto the Google Search results page every time you search for something. It looks then as though 2023 will be a battleground year between traditional search engines and AI generative chat machines.

It is key here, however, to point out that as impressive as these AI tools have been this year and as good their responses can look, there have been a lot of examples of the responses given being nothing more than fancy-looking nonsense. They are not fact and therefore, not something that can be relied upon in the same way a traditional search engine can be, which is exactly what OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman recently said himself. This, however, doesn’t mean that there won’t be a battle, as the likes of Altman will be aware that this lack of factual reliability in answers given by their tools is one of the major current drawbacks and will, therefore, be working to address the issue. How much progress they make next year will be very interesting to see.

DALL-E Access Now

GPT-4

With everybody getting so excited about ChatGPT it is easy to forget that it is actually a reworking of the Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3 (GPT-3) protocol, which launched back in June 2020. GPT-3, however, was only released to researchers and other noted professionals rather than the general public. This meant that while news of its capabilities was breaking through into the public consciousness, it was nothing like we’ve seen over the last few weeks.

This might be different, however, when those same researchers and noted professionals get their hands on GPT-4 which is heavily rumored to be launching early next year. Little is known about what we can expect from GPT-4 but it is almost certain that more people will be paying attention this time around, following the massive fame achieved by ChatGPT.

Text-to-video AI to grab some headlines

We’ve already seen a text-to-video AI protocol in 2022, thanks to Meta’s impressive Make-A-Video tool. The tool converts short descriptions into short GIFs, with users able to choose between three video styles: surreal, realistic, and stylized. Make-A-Video uses a layer of unsupervised learning to understand motion and apply it to traditional text-to-image generation, addressing the challenge of generating video from text rather than static images.

However, professors at Stanford University’s Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence have highlighted generative video as one of their most expected AI developments for 2023. Associate professor of computer science, Percy Liang said:

“We may be getting to a point next year where we won’t be able to distinguish whether a human or computer generated a video. Up to today, if you watch a video, you expect it to be real, but we’re seeing that hard-line start to evaporate.”

Furthermore, with OpenAI also having recently unveiled POINT-E, which can create 3D models from text prompts, we may even see AI-generated items turning up in video games as well as being used as background props in movies.

POINT-E 3d model tool

Troublesome implementations of unsafe AI products

Sticking with the Stanford professors for a moment, another one of the things they expect to see in AI in 2023 relates to the buzz that currently surrounds the subject. With so much interest currently swirling around the topic, it is highly likely that many developers may rush their products to market in order to capitalize on the hype.

This is a big deal because AI is shaping up to be a truly transformational technology. Even if a lot of the buzz that has been whipped up by ChatGPT in recent weeks often sounds like hyperbole, it is an early iteration of a product that has been put out into the wild so that the developers can learn about how it works and what potential problems may be. It is going to get better and it will transform many aspects of our modern life. This means, that if people are rushing out products without fully testing them or considering the effects they will have on society, things could get messy really quickly.

More talk of regulation

Governments and lawmakers stepping in to regulate the use of AI to ensure it is used safely is something that has been on the cards for a while now. The EU AI Act is the most prominent example of this, which is currently being debated by the European Union. If passed, the Act will be the first horizontal law to regulate all uses of AI, categorizing applications into three risk levels. The first category includes applications that pose an unacceptable risk, such as government social scoring, which would be banned. The second category includes high-risk applications, such as CV-scanning tools, which would be subject to legal requirements. The third category includes applications that are not explicitly banned or listed as high-risk, which would largely be unregulated. The EU AI Act will likely come into force in 2023 or 2024, and even if that does happen there will then be a 24-36 month grace period before the main requirements come into force.

In the United States, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy has released a Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, which outlines five principles to guide the design, use, and deployment of automated systems in the age of AI. These principles include ensuring that AI systems are fair, transparent, and accountable; protecting privacy and civil liberties; promoting access to the benefits of AI; encouraging collaboration and innovation; and ensuring that AI systems are sustainable and safe. However, this blueprint is not binding legislation and is more of an educational tool to raise awareness about AI issues. This means it is something to build on rather than something to rely on.

In addition to the EU AI Act and the AI Bill of Rights, there are a number of other national regulations being developed in countries such as Canada, China, the UK, and Brazil. These laws may address issues related to human rights and protecting citizens from potential AI-based abuses. However, it remains to be seen how effective these laws will be in practice. Additionally, there is a concern that the development of AI laws and regulations may not keep pace with the rapid advancement of the technology, leaving gaps in the legal framework. Overall, it is clear that the development and implementation of laws and regulations to govern AI is a complex and ongoing process that will go well into 2023 and beyond.

Chat GPT: What is it, How to Use it, and all About AI

You might’ve read about ChatGPT recently, and how it threatens to destroy all we hold dear and sacred about our civilization. Well, maybe not to that extent, but it’s surely making waves on the Internet, thanks to its impressive features. 

But in case ChatGPT doesn’t ring a bell, here’s a quick overview: It’s a chatbot that interacts conversationally with you. You’d be pardoned if you wonder what’s all the fuss about. After all, isn’t it the same as those infuriating chatbots which supposedly help you when you have an issue with your mobile provider or other services?

As it turns out, ChatGPT is a very special chatbot, and that’s just the beginning: it can also write software, poems, songs, and short stories.

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Incredible feats by ChatGPT

The power of ChatGPT relies on its amazing, human-like responses. Not only that, but since it also possesses an incredible amount of data, it’s able to cross-reference things, extrapolating data to create new outcomes.

In a striking example, a user shared the software code they wrote with this chatbot and asked what was wrong. The bot responded very naturally, explaining it didn’t know what the problem was, and asked if it could have more context. When the user couldn’t provide more context, ChatGPT pointed out some potential issues with the code in a natural way.

And perhaps the best is an example from ChatGPT’s main website. A user asked the bot about Fermat’s Little Theorem. After the explanation, the user asked how it was used in cryptography, with its corresponding response. Now comes the best: the user asked the bot to write a limerick about it, and summarize the conversation, which ChatGPT did, flawlessly.

The list goes on and on, but the main concept is, it goes far beyond simple answers. It can also seemingly develop its own thoughts, and solve problems.

You can also try it for free by simply going to ChatGPT’s website and opening an account. Then, in a simple interface, you just write what you want the bot to do, such as “explain the differences between Star Wars and Star Trek”, or “write an essay about mud”. 

All about ChatGPT An incredible piece of software

What’s behind ChatGPT?

ChatGPT has a complex design under the hood, but there’s no techno-magic involved. It all comes to Machine Learning (ML). In software powered by Machine Learning algorithms, humans “train” the software by giving it large amounts of data, and then teaching the software about the right answers.

There are different techniques to do this, but suffice it to say it involves the software “learning” from its mistakes and fine-tuning itself until it gives precise information. In the case of ChatGPT, human trainers provided both sides of the conversation, and after more steps, it was transformed into a dialogue-type format. 

But how does it know which one’s the more human-like answer? It was trained using a rewards model, that is, humans fed it with responses ranked by quality. It allows the bot to “understand” what’s the best way to articulate an answer.

All about ChatGPT An incredible piece of software

Are we in the future?

It all sounds fantastic, and it’s really impressive. You might wonder what comes next: walking robots among us or flying cars. However, ChatGPT isn’t without its issues, and some of these come from design.

One of the major issues is that it can sometimes give completely false but very articulate answers. This is a difficult problem to solve since there’s no source of truth during its training. If they program the bot to be more careful, it declines questions that it’s able to answer.

Another problem is inappropriate requests. Even though they have programmed it to refuse them, it sometimes doesn’t. There were some issues when it was released, where the developers decided to “ban” certain themes and topics. It can also sometimes make biased answers.

As you can see, there are still lots of things to polish. The problem is that some of these issues are inherent, so it’s anyone’s guess whether they can be fixed. Even though this model is impressive, it’s still nowhere as near as a human in terms of adaptability.

About AI and Machine Learning

There are a lot of ideas circulating about AI, including whether it’s a dangerous technology that will dominate us. Let’s take a look at what AI is, and in which state we currently are.

AI, or Artificial Intelligence, means that a machine has the capacity for autonomous thought. Your toaster, for instance, can do something: it can toast your bread. However, you “command” it on how to do it, specifically: you turn it on, put the bread in, set the toasting level, and then it does it.

AI-powered software and devices don’t work that way. They have the capacity of analyzing the situation and adapting to the circumstances to perform their job. A good example of this is robot vacuum cleaners. They can sense obstacles, and avoid them. They even know how to go back to their charging station.

These abilities make people wonder if devices can suddenly go crazy and kill everyone, or install themselves as our overlords. Thankfully, this is far away from us, and some of the fear comes from a misunderstanding in terminology. AI’s ubiquity also means anything can be a suspect of AI manipulation.

There are many types of AI, and the definitions are constantly changing. To make it less confusing, AI can be cataloged based on its functionalities, including terms like Reactive Machines, Limited Memory, Theory of Mind, and the dreaded Self-aware AI.

But it can also be categorized based on how they work, and that’s when Machine Learning, Deep Learning, NLP, Robotics, and other terms show up. So, an AI model can be a Reactive Machine and Deep Learning at the same time.

However, the main term you need to worry about is General Artificial Intelligence, which is also called Self-Aware AI. This is a theoretical concept still, in which a machine can become self-aware and have consciousness and emotions. There is currently no software or device that has this ability, at least that we know of.

The problem with this is that nobody really knows how consciousness works in the first place, much less how to create it or make it happen. Even if they did, there are many ethical issues, such as it having rights, and if it’s a valid goal to pursue.

All about ChatGPT An incredible piece of software
AI technology brain background digital transformation concept

ChatGPT, yes; General AI, no

Summing up, ChatGPT is a valid tool that’ll probably be enhanced to a point where it will be indistinguishable from a human, but it’s still not there. Software developers will still need to code and writers to write.

But the big question is what comes next. Will AI be able to replace humans in language-related tasks, too? And if it does, will it go after everything else? Will we live in a jobless utopia where only machines work or a dystopian nightmare with sentient-like devices enslaving us? Nobody knows, but just in case, don’t forget how to remove batteries.

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The Most Popular Windows Apps Downloads Of 2022

Whether or not we realize it, we depend on apps for multiple reasons, personal and professional. Windows has a multitude of apps to choose from, and it’s common to wonder which ones are worth investing your time in and which ones should be avoided.

A smart way to judge which apps are good is by checking the number of downloads. Here’s a list of the most popular Windows apps downloaded in 2022.

Zoom Meetings

Number of Downloads – 1816140

With virtual interactions becoming more prominent, Zoom Meetings became one of the most downloaded apps in 2022. Founded in 2011, Zoom was noticed more than ever when people stayed home and couldn’t travel either to work or to meet their loved ones.

Zoom became synonymous with virtual meets since 2019, and the number of downloads started to increase rapidly. Zoom is free to use with the basic features, but you need to pay a fee if you wish to use it on a larger scale and for longer durations. Many companies integrated the app into their system to seamlessly connect with coworkers without having to worry about geographical restrictions anymore.

Zoom Popular Windows App 2022

Microsoft Word

Number of Downloads – 1328569

Microsoft Word was first released in 1983 and has since become the most popular word processing tool to be used to date, with several upgrades since its first release. Today, Microsoft Word comes with built-in intelligent features that make it easy to create documents seamlessly. The documents can now be used for collaboration too, and people can edit and update the document conveniently. It offers various localizations and language correction tools as well.

Microsoft Word Popular Windows App 2022

Anydesk

Number of Downloads – 1018830

Remote access was once a distant dream, but thanks to Anydesk, it’s now something that’s not only possible but also comes with an array of features one never thought possible. Released for the first time in 2015, Anydesk took virtual workspaces to a whole new level by enabling people to access their work computers even when they were away from the system, thereby preventing any delays in the workflow. It’s no wonder this app was one of the most downloaded apps in 2022.

Anydesk Popular Windows App 2022

Roblox

Number of Downloads – 721170

Game development is one of the most promising careers today, and the best way to learn the skill is to practice regularly. Roblox is a gaming platform and creation system that helps young minds discover their passion for developing games using simple tools. Released in 2006, this platform is loved by people of all ages, and it’s no surprise the app is so heavily downloaded even today.

µTorrent

Number of Downloads – 1136624

Downloading large files is no longer a struggle thanks to apps like µTorrent. Torrents are easier to download because it pushes smaller portions of a large file, so you get the best download speed. Whether it’s a high-definition movie clip or a large file that you’re unable to email to your coworker, this app is the best way to share these files. Released in 2005, µTorrent is simple to use, making it a popular choice for sharing large files.

µTorrent Popular Windows App 2022

Netflix

Number of Downloads – 709828

Over-the-top streaming apps have gained a lot of popularity since the introduction of smart televisions, but Netflix was one app that people downloaded even on their computers way before smart televisions became a thing. The app was so popular people relate it to binge-watching while relaxing at home. Although the app is available on televisions, it’s still one of the most downloaded apps on windows devices.

Netflix Popular Windows App 2022

Whatsapp

Number of Downloads – 870952

When was the last time you sent out a conventional text message to someone? Whatsapp has taken over text messages for the better by making them more interactive, creative, and accessible. The free-to-use app is compactable with almost any mobile device and offers features that make conversations a breeze, irrespective of the location of the sender or recipient.

Released in 2009, Whatsapp gave Blackberry a run for its money by introducing cross-platform messaging. Today Whatsapp offers a plethora of features, including making calls, sharing images, locations, and even payments in certain countries.

Whatsapp Popular Windows App 2022

Microsoft Excel

Number of Downloads – 696650

Spreadsheets are the most effective way to compile information, compare statistics, draw up graphs or make notes of tasks to do. Microsoft Excel comes with computation capabilities that offer limitless options to edit and create spreadsheets that are capable of storing any sort of information. From basic calculations to complex formulas that help separate data, you can get it all done using Microsoft Excel, and that’s just scraping off the tip of the iceberg. Microsoft Excel is so extensive, people take courses to learn how to make optimal use of the app.

Microsoft Excel Popular Windows App 2022

Norton 360 Deluxe

Number of Downloads – 26462

People today have become more aware of security, and that’s where Norton 360 Deluxe comes into the picture. Back in the day, one wouldn’t know the difference between Norton 360 – an antivirus, and Norton 360 Deluxe, an antivirus on steroids. Norton 360 Deluxe not only protects against viruses, but it also provides dark web protection, parental controls, a VPN, and more. This app became a hot favorite at corporates, making it a highly downloaded app.

Norton 360 Deluxe Popular Windows App 2022

VLC Media Player

Number of Downloads – 835135

Imagine having to download multiple apps to listen to music, watch videos in different formats or play clips shared on your device. It’s not convenient, is it? That’s where VLC Media Player comes into the picture. The app enables cross-platform media storage and allows you to watch videos or listen to music using the same app. It’s a great way to share video presentations on multiple devices without worrying about the format getting messed up or the file not opening on the recipient’s end.

VLC Media Player Popular Windows App 2022

Apps You’ll Love

The apps mentioned above are from different walks of life and come in handy at some point or another, whether it’s on the personal or professional front. Considering how popular they are, you won’t regret giving any one of them a try.

Best Windows Games to Look Forward to in 2023

The current year is almost over. That means another one is coming with new games. Many games are released in critical seasons like Summer or the Holidays, but in 2023 we can expect some very anticipated games as soon as January.

Thankfully, 2023 seems packed with top-anticipated games that have been years in the making, such as Starfield, and probably instant hits like Diablo IV. These games are expected later in 2023, but there’s no need to wait: great games are coming sooner.

Best Windows games for the first quarter

These are some of the most anticipated games for Windows systems from January to March. The first quarter isn’t typically littered with new releases, but there are still noteworthy titles that’ll help you endure those long winter nights or summer days, depending on where you are. Below are the highlights.

Forspoken – 24 January 2023

This is a new franchise from Luminous Productions and Square Enix. In case these names aren’t familiar, Square Enix is responsible for nothing less than the Final Fantasy franchise, which started in 1987, whose games became some of the most popular JRPGs of all time. Luminous Productions is a subsidiary of Square Enix, whose biggest hit is Final Fantasy XV.

In this case, they aim to recreate Final Fantasy’s success with a new proposal. In this case, you play a young woman from New York who somehow gets into a magical realm. As you can imagine, the story is king here, since it’s very well developed, at least as far as the preview allows us to check.

Another important feature is combat. Since you’re in a magical realm, you soon find out you have special powers. In fact, there are more than 100 spells, many of them with different attack modes which work just like regular weapons.

Forspoken the hottest games for Windows in 2023

Hogwarts Legacy – 10 February 2023

Isn’t Harry Potter so 2000s already? That’s the notion Hogwarts Legacy tries to combat. First of all, the action develops in the same universe as the Harry Potter books, but with different characters. The story unfolds about 100 years before the books and has you attending classes to, later on, deal with a major menace.

This is a third-person action game where you learn spells at Hogwarts and later use them against enemies or solve puzzles. You can also create potions and, apparently, go on a dark path for some interesting character development. There are many NPCs to interact with, but there’s no multiplayer.

Avalanche Studios is behind the game, and they clarified JK Rowling wasn’t involved in any aspect of its development. Among Avalanche’s biggest hits are Rage 2 and the Just Cause franchise.

Hogwarts Legacy the hottest games for Windows in 2023

Wild Hearts – 17 February 2023

Wild Hearts is poised to be “the” 2023 monster hunting game. Clearly inspired by the Monster Hunter series, this EA game expands the concept in many ways. This game has incredible graphics and a distinctive combination of gameplay elements. You can hunt, craft, and build aside from exploring a vast world.

The setting is also intriguing since it incorporates a lot of elements from feudal Japan, something that’s not very common in action games, and gives it a unique feel. Even though combat is immensely satisfying, the other major innovation is a Fortnite-like ability to create items instantly and use them in combat.

Aside from this, it features up to three players in coop-multiplayer mode. The best of all? It’s cross-platform, so you can play with your PS5 or Xbox friends in the same session.

Wild Hearts the hottest games for Windows in 2023

Skull and Bones – 9 March 2023

This Ubisoft game is hotly anticipated by a lot of players since it had many development problems. It’ll finally set sail in March, and it’s looking up to be a great pirate simulator.

In Skull and Bones, your task is to rise from being an outcast to the terror of the seas. You have nothing, and through your deeds must build a fleet to dominate the Indian Ocean. It’s set in the Golden Age of Piracy, between 1650 and 1730, with an open-world setting.

Unlike its main competitor Sea of Thieves, you control all functions in your ship such as crew management and combat, instead of individually making use of your ship. You need to ensure your ships are in top shape, as well as your crew’s morale since you’ll be competing with other players in this multiplayer-only experience.

Skull and Bones the hottest games for Windows in 2023

Star Wars: Jedi Survivor – 17 March 2023

This incredibly anticipated sequel to Fallen Order continues with the adventures of Cal Kestis. Following its predecessor, your task is to survive Order 66 to kill all Jedi. Even though it’s a sequel, there are novelties as well.

These novelties include five new fighting stances, new characters, and new traversal mechanics that make exploration easier. The new story still doesn’t change the game’s main genre, an action-adventure title.

Like Fallen Order, this title is a single-player experience, boasting incredible graphics and effects. The new fighting stances make lightsaber combat more satisfying than ever.

Star Wars Jedi Survivor the hottest games for Windows in 2023

Resident Evil 4 Remake – 24 March 2023

Resident Evil 2 had a remake and it was a success, so why not remake Resident Evil 4? This Capcom game differs, however, in its approach. While Resident Evil 2 Remake was a major one, here it’s more nuanced, trying to bring this 17-year-old game to current times.

Graphics received a major update, and scenes now feel a lot more haunting even though the events play out almost the same. Combat is very similar, but has some important changes. One of them is the ability to move while you aim. You can also crouch now, which allows for new ways to deal with old problems.

However, the developer was wise enough to include many small elements that will surprise original fans, such as going to a previously safe place only to find it’s not safe in this version, or cows catching fire.

Resident Evil 4 Remake the hottest games for Windows in 2023

Other games to look forward to

The rest of the year is also packed with important titles. Here’s a list of what to expect from April onwards.

The Best Mobile Apps of 2022

Mobile phones have become so much more than just a device used to make phone calls. There’s a lot that you can do with a smartphone and the right apps, and while there’s a plethora of apps available, it’s always smart to know which ones are the best.

Here’s a list of some of the best mobile apps in 2022.

Instagram

Sharing pictures and videos gained a lot of popularity in 2022 and Instagram topped the charts when it came to apps that enable sharing of this information. With the introduction of reels, Instagram now has over 2 billion active users and is the 4th most popular social media platform out there.

People love following celebs and Instagram stars on the platform and even enjoy placing a hashtag before a few words hoping it’ll go viral. If you thought users don’t spend a lot of time here, you’ll be surprised to know that an average Instagram user spends up to 53 minutes a day on the platform.

Instagram Best Mobile Apps 2022

Amazon

One of the largest e-commerce platforms out there, your phone is incomplete without the Amazon app. Whether it’s online retail therapy or e-window shopping, there’s a sense of satisfaction when you browse through Amazon. You can also order your groceries and more from the platform and have them delivered on the same day. Amazon also has a wide range of ebooks that you can buy or download if you have a kindle membership.

Amazon Best Mobile Apps 2022

Facebook

Still at the top of the charts, Facebook continues to remain the most popular social media platform in 2022 with over 2.90 billion active users. Whether it’s sharing your feelings, pictures, or random posts, Facebook is a great platform to connect with friends new and old. From the days when you could poke someone on Facebook to being able to lock your profile to protect it from unnecessary prying eyes, Facebook has come a long way and earned its way to the top.

Facebook Best Mobile Apps 2022

Spotify

Listening to music happens to be one of the most popular hobbies worldwide and there’s no denying that Spotify is ideal for this. Enabling people to listen to popular tracks on the go, Spotify is one of the best music apps you’ll find.  The app has over 450 million subscribers and about 195 million paid subscribers.

Spotify Best Mobile Apps 2022

Snapchat

This instant messaging service does exactly what its name says, allowing you to use snaps to chat. With numerous filters and fun background music, you can create funny snaps and videos to share with your friends both on the platform and off it. Snapchat is best known for the viral filters that keep coming up based on what’s trending. For example, during Halloween, you’ll have a ton of scary filters to add to pictures when sharing.

Snapchat Best Mobile Apps 2022

WhatsApp Messenger

WhatsApp messenger has replaced the need to send text messages to people. It’s free to use and available in almost every country. WhatsApp comes with highly interactive features that not only allow you to chat with a person but also make video calls. You can add statuses, display pictures, and even share files. Whether it’s personal or professional, WhatsApp groups help people stay connected.

WhatsApp Messenger Best Mobile Apps 2022

Netflix

There’s nothing more fun than OTT streaming apps and Netflix is right up there when it comes to watching some of the best series and movies. The best part about Netflix is that you can download the app on your phone to enjoy binge-watching no matter where you are. The app has a ton of original content that’s not available anywhere else including documentaries that are worth watching.

Netflix

HBO Max

HBO Max is one of the top streaming apps. It comes with all that HBO offers along with additional TV shows, Max Originals, and blockbuster movies. This app gives you everything you love, under one umbrella. The best part about this app is you can stream all your favorite content at any time and as per your convenience. With HBO Max, you get unlimited access to hours of entertainment for everyone in your household. From action movies to murder mysteries and animations, HBO Max has it all.

HBO Max Best Mobile Apps 2022

Facebook Messenger

If you wanted to get in touch with all your friends on your Facebook list but have no intention of sharing your phone number then using Facebook messenger is the best way to do that. This app has features similar to WhatsApp, and you can even call people on it just like you do on Facebook. It comes with an easy-to-use interface and makes it convenient for long-lost friends to catch up without having to type everything.

Facebook Messenger Best Mobile Apps 2022

Zoom Cloud Meetings

Virtual meetings took a new turn with the introduction of work from home or remote locations. Today, a ton of businesses function completely remotely. The most effective way for these organizations to stay in touch with each other is with the help of virtual meetings and there’s no better way to do it than Zoom. 

With the ability to share files, computer screens, and so much more, Zoom has become a household name not only for working professionals but also for people who have loved ones living far away. The platform is also popularly used for online classes and can accommodate up to 1000 users in one meeting.

Zoom Cloud Meetings Best Mobile Apps 2022

Making The Most Of Your Phone

Whether you’re looking for entertainment or staying in touch with family and friends, these apps do it all. Most of these apps are part of people’s lives and have become integral to their daily functionality. With 2023 around the corner, it’s time to check out these top apps and welcome the new year with the best entertainment and networking apps.

The Most Popular Windows Games Downloads of 2022

The gaming industry reached a record-breaking value of $90.13 billion in 2022, and there’s no sign of this market slowing down. New gamers are emerging each day, and their one aim is to find popular Windows games to play. 

If you’ve got hooked on gaming and you’re keen to know the best games for Windows desktop, then here’s a list of the most popular game downloads on Softonic for 2022.

ROBLOX

Number of downloads – 228121

Roblox is an online game and game creation platform available on Windows desktops. Developed by Roblox Corporation, it’s one of the most downloaded games in 2022. Initially released in 2006, Roblox is a multiplayer game that allows your imagination to run wild. From creating virtual avatars to dressing them up in detail, Roblox has it all.

It’s a great way to channel your kid’s creativity by enabling them to try creating their games and play games created by others on the platform. The game currently has more than 164 million monthly active users and is one of the largest platforms for kids to learn how to develop games. While downloading the game is free, those interested in selling their games need a membership to do so. The highest-earning creators on Roblox have bagged in over $100,000 yearly. With returns that high, it’s no wonder this game tops the charts when it comes to the highest downloads.

ROBLOX Popular 2022 Windows Games

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

Number of downloads – 201542

GTA has been a hot favorite for two decades, and there’s no sign of its popularity slowing down. Developed by Rockstar North, Grand Theft Auto has many versions, but Vice City remains a hot favorite. Whether it’s the vintage theme that appeals to people or a setup mimicking Miami Beach, GTA Vice City is the most downloaded single-player game in 2022.

This faced-paced game is fun and there’s never a dull moment making players passionate about playing. Unlike most games that take a while to catch up, Vice City gained popularity from the get-go. It sold over 17.5 million copies in 2002, the year the game was released, making it the highest-selling game that year. Although controversial, GTA Vice City is highly appealing to people, and it’s unlikely it’ll ever lose its charm.

Grand Theft Auto Vice City Popular 2022 Windows Games

Grand Theft Auto V

Number of downloads – 189567

Given the popularity of GTA, Rockstar North introduced a new version of the game called Grand Theft Auto V. Initially released in 2013, this game might not have been around that long, but it’s managed to keep up with the popularity of its predecessor. With better graphics and a multiplayer option, the 15th version of GTA is based in Southern California.

Grand Theft Auto V broke all game sales records when it first hit the market and sold over $800 million on the very first day. It crossed $1 billion within the first three days and went on to win the title of being one of the best video games ever made. In 2018, GTA V was the best video game ever made, with over 170 million copies of the game sold worldwide.

Grand Theft Auto V Popular 2022 Windows Games

Among Us

Number of downloads – 134973

Developed by InnerSloth LLC, Among Us is a multiplayer game that can accommodate 4-15 players. The aim is to get your spaceship ready for departure on time while trying to figure out which crew member is an imposter waiting to kill everyone.

The game was initially created as a party game but ended up being a popular choice for Microsoft players who want to stay connected with friends while playing a fun game. The game allows cross-play, which is also one of the reasons why it’s so popular.

Among Us Popular 2022 Windows Games

Stumble Guys

Number of downloads – 96025

Stumble Guys is a recently developed game by Kitka Games and has managed to become a hot favorite when it comes to group multiplayer games. You can accommodate up to 32 players in a game, making it a great party game to enjoy with friends and family. This is a non-fuss game that’s simple to play, thereby encouraging people of all age groups to give it a try.

The more players there are in the game, the more fun it gets as you make it through level after level stumbling on bizarre obstacles and challenges till you knock out all your friends. This game is full of laughs and comes with cute little avatars that move as per your instructions.

Stumble Guys Popular 2022 Windows Games

The Sims 4

Number of downloads – 71220

Social stimulation games happen to be a popular genre, and The Sims 4 is surely the most popular game under that umbrella. Designed by Eric Holmberg-Weidler and Matt Yang and developed by Maxis and The Sims Studio, this adventurous single-player game is a hot favorite game that’s popular with girls too. The main motto of the game is to create a Sim, which is a virtual person. This creation will go through 7 stages of life and will come with its personality traits. This is a highly engaging game that enables players to stay hooked for hours on end.

The Sims 4 Popular 2022 Windows Games

Project IGI

Number of downloads – 148673

Project IGI has come a long way from its initial release in 2000 when people didn’t appreciate the game as much. Today, it’s one of the most downloaded single-player games developed by Innerloop Studios. This tactical shooting game did take a while to catch up to the competition, but it managed to make its mark and also to this list, considering the number of downloads it had in 2022.

Project IGI Popular 2022 Windows Games

IGI 2: Covert Strike

Number of downloads – 67384

Developed in 2003 by Innerloop Studios, IGI 2: Covert Strike is a sequel to Project I.G.I. and has been in the news ever since. The game offers better graphics and has a multiplayer option which was missing in the previous version. The tactical game is detailed and involves skill and planning, which makes it a fun game to play, especially with friends.

IGI 2 Covert Strike Popular 2022 Windows Games

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Number of downloads – 89412

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is the 7th installment of GTA and one of the more popular versions the franchisee has. Released in 2004, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas became the bestselling game that year and sold over 27.5 million copies worldwide. Even after all these years, the craze for this version is still high, and it’s considered one of the greatest games ever made. This is the first version where players can switch from single players to multi-players making it even more addictive and fun.

Grand Theft Auto San Andreas Popular 2022 Windows Games

EA Sports Cricket

Number of downloads – 92560

Even though EA Sports Cricket was released in 2006, it’s still one of the more popular Windows games downloaded on Softonic. With the cricket season hot again, there’s a good chance that players want to get in on the action. The game offers realistic graphics and gameplay, and you’ll almost feel the heat of the sun on you. It still receives updates, with the latest one being in November 2021, adding to its popularity.

EA Sports Cricket Popular 2022 Windows Games

2022 Was a Year Filled With Fun Games

As we wrap up the year, there’s a lot to look back at. There’s also a lot to take forward, and some of these games will surely make it to the list. With so much to offer, one can only imagine what the gaming industry has in store for 2023. Until a new game comes around that’s out to impress, you can continue to enjoy the ones already out there.

The Best Windows Games of 2022

Some of the best PC games have been released in the past ten years, putting PC gaming on par with the most recent consoles. Gaming on a PC may even be superior to gaming on a console due to the technological advantages that the greatest graphics card and CPU can offer.

Some of these advances include higher frame rates, resolutions, features like ray-tracing and HDR, the best gaming display that can provide incredible immersive experiences, and more. Whether you have a high-end PC gaming setup or are looking for games to play on your laptop, we’ve put together a list of the best PC games of 2022 you can find right now.

Elden Ring

Elden Ring is the topic of everyone’s conversation these days and with good cause. You can be sure that FromSoftware’s newest punishment simulator won’t pull any punches with a story created by Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin and all the well-known Souls-like touchstones expanded into an open universe.

FromSoftware is developing a patch to address a number of performance problems with the PC version of the game. Despite these issues, it is unquestionably one of the best games the business has ever produced.

Since Demons’ Souls was released, we have been staunch fans of the studio’s work. Therefore, we don’t give that kind of praise lightly. You must, however, earn it, just like in the Souls-like genre, which FromSoftware unquestionably does with Elden Ring. 

Best Windows Games of 2022

God of War Ragnarok

God of War is a game series that has been running since 2005. The most recent installment, Ragnarok, has given the game new vitality despite the fact that it has had several throughout the years. This may be as a result of the new location—you aren’t anymore traveling through a horrible version of Greece—or the inclusion of Kratos’ travel partner.

As you and his kid ascend a mountain to disperse his wife’s ashes, you’ll be plunged into a Norse-inspired mythical realm while playing as Kratos, the demigod who almost destroyed the entirety of the Greek pantheon in the prior games. Naturally, you’ll have to fight your way through a variety of animals and deities along the way.

Best Windows Games of 2022

Hitman 3

Hitman 3, the final game in the rebooted trilogy, completes the franchise and perfectly captures what makes these games unique. Although the gameplay isn’t entirely new, it does include six new places and wraps up the story that began in Hitman in 2016.

You may go to many places worldwide with the maps in Hitman 3, including England, China, Dubai, and more. If you’ve never experienced Hitman’s gameplay, you’re in for a treat. In this hitman game, you assume the character of Agent 47, whose job it is to surreptitiously and stealthily go over vast spaces, such as an English manor, in pursuit of and killing targets.

Given that you can play the same map repeatedly to find new routes or alternate plot lines to eliminate your targets, this edition, like the previous ones, offers the kind of replay value you don’t often see in other games.

Best Windows Games of 2022

Death Stranding Director’s Cut

You would be in for a treat if the mention of Death Stranding brought Norman Reedus to your notice. However, the fact that this game has well-known actors like Mads Mikkelsen and Léa Seydoux associated with it is not the only reason it is attracting so much interest. 

To transport vital goods, you heroically cross the post-apocalyptic United States as porter Sam Bridges while avoiding terrorists, robbers, and strange invisible beings known as Beached Things. 

The wonderful plot, which may be similar to the present epidemic, the enjoyable quests, the excellent gameplay, and the stunning music and visuals of this award-winning action game make it a delight for all the senses as well. 

Best Windows Games of 2022

Forza Horizon 5

Microsoft’s racing franchise gets better with each new iteration, and in many ways, this spin-off has topped the main Forza Motorsport series as the best PC racing game right now. They’re unquestionably more entertaining, bringing a splash of arcade excitement to the stunningly rendered vehicles and race circuits we’ve come to expect from Forza. 

Without a doubt, Forza Horizon 5 is among the greatest PC games available right now. After visiting America, France, Italy, and Australia in the previous three games in the franchise, this one takes the racing to the United Kingdom. 

Now, you can speed through quaint towns, beach resorts, and the capital of Edinburgh over miles of backroads and dirt roads. It’s really exciting, hectic, and quick. It might have been released in November 2021, but it’s still one of the best PC games for 2022.

Best Windows Games of 2022

Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered

Finally available on PC, Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered hits hard (pun intended). The action and web-slinging transitions are flawless, and the improvements to resolution and framerate reflect how carefully this remastered port was made. 

Ray-tracing, NVIDIA DLSS, NVIDIA DLAA, and monitor configurations like ultrawide 21:9, panoramic 32:9, and NVIDIA Surround multi-monitor are just a few of the additional capabilities available in this PC edition. The DualSense controller for the PlayStation 5 and the mouse and keyboard are also fully supported.

Best Windows Games of 2022

Silt

In Silt, a strange underwater puzzle-adventure game, a lone deep diver investigates the dark depths of the ocean in an effort to uncover its mysteries. The imaginative game Silt, developed by Spiral Circus Games and published by Fireshine Games, effectively captures the emotions of wonder and horror.

Its darkly atmospheric gameplay has been improved because it is a single-player game. If you’re looking for a platformer puzzler with a more methodical story delivery and controls that keep everything feeling fresh until the very end, this game is worth buying.

Silt distinguishes itself from most other games in its genre because of its gorgeous yet depressing black-and-white graphics. The contrast between the bright and dark areas softly but successfully sets the tone, masterfully depicting the inherent terror and danger of exploring the deep ocean while coming across terrifying creatures.

Best Windows Games of 2022

What’s next for games

We anticipate nothing less than a continuation of the trend of PC gaming being one or two steps ahead in the coming year. The enormous wheezing towers continue to advance in terms of technology and gaming performance, even in the early years of a new console generation. 

It’s the most diverse method to play video games when you consider the broader number of genres that are available, such as complicated strategy and MMO, the immensely lively indie industry, and how PC tends to avoid the “exclusivity” of console wars. Any of the aforementioned games ought to be able to grab your interest and hold it for a long period.