Microsoft tests new Xbox night mode

Source: The Verge

Microsoft is experimenting with a new night mode for its Xbox consoles. The company is trying it out with Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring. Its features include dimming the screens, controller LED brightness, and even the Xbox power button. There are other customization options like different dimming levels and an optional blue light filter. You can even set an Xbox to switch to the system dark mode and disable HDR when the night mode is enabled.

As with night or dark modes in other systems, the Xbox night mode can be set to a schedule, either manually or automatically, enabling at sunset and disabling at sunrise.

Source: The Verge

Microsoft plans to merge OneNote apps by end of 2022

Before the end of next year, Microsoft plans to offer one OneNote app only. There are currently two versions available: one installed with Office and the other with the Windows 10 app available in the Microsoft Store. The company plans to update the app to get features exclusive to the Windows 10 option and give it a visual refresh to fit in with the upcoming Windows 11 update.

This new OneNote app will also access the latest Microsoft pen and ink features and the latest navigational UI layout option. Those using the Office version will just have to wait for the updates to roll out. In comparison, those using the Windows 10 option will get an in-app invite to upgrade once the app is ready. Microsoft plans to send out invites in the second half of 2022, and it advises organizations to use the OneNote app so they won't need to upgrade next year.

Source: Engadget

'Evil Dead: The Game' gets pushed back to Feb. 2022

The film turned video game Evil Dead: The Game was initially scheduled for a 2021 release. But developers Boss Team and Saber Interactive tweeted that the game will be released in February 2022. The delay will give their team "some extra time for polish and to ensure this is the ultimate Evil Dead experience you're all waiting for."

According to the team, "This additional time is also allowing us to implement a single-player option that will let you enjoy the game when you are without your co-op compadres." The game will feature Bruce Campbell's Ash alongside Kelly and the crew working to fight Deadites led by a powerful demon. Evil Dead: The Game will offer "multiplayer co-op and PvP for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch," according to the developer's website. 

Source: Engadget

Duolingo wants to help your kids learn math

Source: Duolingo

You may know Duolingo for its language-learning app, but the company is looking to expand beyond that. According to TechCrunch, Duolingo is working on a new app that will help kids learn math. The company's CEO, Luis von Ahn, mentioned it in a recent interview, saying we will learn more about it later this month during Duocon, its annual conference.

Hints about this new app were seen around May when Duolingo posted a new job opening for a learning scientist with a Ph.D. in mathematics. According to the job description, the employee will work with a "small cross-functional team" to develop a new app, which will likely be focused on younger students between the 3rd and 8th grades. The company wanted candidates who know about teaching K-12 level math.