10 Feb 2025
 
It feels like we have a gadget for everything these days, doesn’t it?
 
The average office worker now carries around three devices to get through the day. Think laptops, tablets, headphones… and even multiple phones.
 
Technology keeps teams connected and helps us work smarter – but there’s a downside: Managing so many devices can get a little overwhelming.
 
What happens every time we add a new device to our daily work routine? There’s something else to charge. Another thing to carry. One more item to keep track of. 
 
In fact, carrying around all this tech adds up to an average 4.1 kg of extra weight. That’s like carrying an air fryer to work every day!
 
Another issue is the mental load. Many professionals say they feel bogged down by the notifications they get across all their devices. It’s common to get dozens of notifications every day, and the constant flow of alerts can be such a distraction.
 
One way to get around gadget overload is to try out devices that handle many functions, like foldable phones, or hybrid laptops. This way, one device could do the same thing two or three of your devices are doing.
 
Another great strategy is to upgrade to a smarter system, like Windows 11. 
 
Windows 11 makes it easier to switch between tasks, reducing the need for extra devices. With a smoother, more integrated experience, your team might not feel they need as many gadgets to stay productive. 
 
Need help streamlining your setup? We can help walk you through the options. Get in touch.
03 Feb 2025
 
Still holding on to Windows 10 in your business? It’s time to start thinking about making the move to Windows 11. 
 
Three years after its release, Windows 11 is making major headway, with its market share reaching 35.55% in October 2024. While Windows 10 still holds around 60.97% of the market, change is on the horizon – and there are some compelling reasons to consider the switch.
 
First, let’s talk about the big news: From 14th October, Windows 10 will no longer receive free support from Microsoft. Although this doesn’t mean Windows 10 will stop working, it will stop getting important updates, such as up-to-date protection against malicious software and cyber threats. 
 
Microsoft will be offering extended security support for Windows 10 for an extra year, but this will cost businesses $30 (around £23) per device and could get expensive. And this is only a temporary solution.
 
So, why has interest in Windows 11 spiked recently? 
 
For one, the PC market has picked up. This is partly because of the rise of "AI PCs", which use hardware that is more capable of handling AI-based tasks. People want to make sure their devices are compatible with the latest software, including Windows 11. There’s also buzz around the rollout of “Windows Intelligence” – a possible rebrand of some Windows 11 AI features.
 
Upgrading to Windows 11 isn't just about keeping up with the latest tech, though. Another reason people are moving to Windows 11 is that it offers a more streamlined and user-friendly experience. New features include customisable widgets and an improved File Explorer, helping you to get things done faster.
 
Another major benefit to businesses is that Windows 11 brings improved security, offering better protection against cyber threats like:
 
·       Ransomware, where you get locked out of your files and held to ransom for their (possible) return 
·       Phishing attacks, where you get tricked into revealing sensitive information through things like fake emails
 
If you want to stick with Windows 10, Microsoft’s one-year extension could offer you a bit more time. But if you want our advice? You’d only be delaying the inevitable, while missing out on the benefits of upgrading. 
 
We can help make the switch stress-free. Get in touch.
26 Jan 2025
 
Imagine turning on your computer and having all the apps you need for the day already open and ready to go. That’d be useful, right?
 
Windows 11 lets you set your favourite apps to launch automatically when you log in. 
 
Setting it up is easy. And it’ll help you and your team dive into work faster. 
 
For some apps, you can set up auto-launch like this: 
 
·       Head to Settings
·       Click Apps
·       Then select Startup
 
Here, you’ll see a list of apps that support auto-launch. Flip the toggle for the apps you want to open when you start your computer, and they’ll be ready for you next time you log in.
 
If an app doesn’t appear in the Startup area of Settings, don’t worry. You can set the app to auto-launch another way. 
 
For this, head to the special Startup folder in Windows 11. Here you can add shortcuts to any app you want to launch automatically. 
 
Here’s how you do it:
 
·       Hit “Windows Key + R” to open the Run tool 
·       Type ‘shell:startup’
·       Click OK
 
Now you’ll be able to add a shortcut to your chosen app using its executable file (usually shown as an .exe file in Program Files).
 
If the thought of doing this makes you feel ill, get us to do it for you.
 
One thing to remember, though. While it's tempting to set all your favourite apps to launch automatically, opening too many at once can slow down your computer. Stick to the essentials.
 
Need help getting your tech set up for your business? We can do that, get in touch.
 
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