PCWorld reports that Google Chrome 156 introduces a new Media understanding feature, allowing users to ask Gemini AI to summarize or explain videos and audio content directly in the browser.

PCWorld reports that Mozilla has released Firefox 158, introducing an AI-powered Smart Windows feature for automatic form filling and adding support for the efficient JPEG XL image format. The update patches 77 security flaws, including 30 high-risk vulnerabilities, with 24 capable of allowing malicious code execution and eight potentially enabling attackers to escape the browser sandbox. Users are advised to update Firefox immediately to close these dangerous security gaps. Firefox 158 is out for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. This version brings improved PDF support, the ability to fill forms with the help of "AI," as well as fixes for over 75 security vulnerabilities. Updates are also available for Firefox ESR versions. Firefox 159's release is scheduled for October 27th, 2026.

PCWorld reports that Microsoft set a record by fixing 1,416 security vulnerabilities in its October 2026 Patch Tuesday update, surpassing any previous single-month total. The update addresses 85 critical flaws, including 67 remote code execution vulnerabilities, a dangerous SharePoint elevation of privilege issue, and one actively exploited Windows Shell flaw. Windows and Office users are urged to apply these updates immediately to avoid serious cyberattacks and unauthorized system access. Yesterday was October Patch Tuesday, and Microsoft's security updates addressed 1,416 new vulnerabilities. Not only is that another record broken, but it's also the first time over 1,000 flaws were fixed in a single month.

PCWorld notes that Firefox 157 introduces the Nova redesign, the browser's biggest visual overhaul in years, featuring rounded corners, subtle color gradients, and 12 unique themes with light and dark modes. A new Compact Mode helps users save screen space, making Firefox more practical for smaller displays. Mozilla also released ESR security updates fixing dozens of vulnerabilities, with older system support continuing until March 2027. Firefox 157 is out for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android and the biggest change in this version is the new Nova design, which brings a more modern look to the browser. Mozilla has also fixed over 70 security vulnerabilities, and updates are also available for the Firefox ESR versions. The release of Firefox 158 is scheduled for October 13th, 2026.

PCWorld reports that Google has released Chrome 154, fixing 108 security vulnerabilities, including 11 classified as critical risks. The update is available across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, with external researchers helping identify 32 of the patched issues. Users are strongly advised to update Chrome immediately via the Help menu to protect against these serious security flaws.

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Microsoft Defender is causing slow VLC startups. Here's what you can do to fix it For some time now, there have been complaints across various online forums about how the popular VLC Media Player takes several seconds (sometimes half a minute!) to start up. The problem occurs regardless of size or the type of media file you wish to play. There's also some unfounded accusations against the VideoLan developers; one often reads claims that Microsoft is deliberately slowing down the open-source media player.

PCWorld reports that Google has patched 42 security vulnerabilities in Chrome, with three classified as critical risks affecting Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS users. Many of the fixes address use-after-free memory flaws, and while none have been exploited yet, the risks are serious enough to warrant immediate action. Users should update Chrome now via the About Google Chrome menu to stay protected.

The September Windows 11 update set a new patching record with almost 1,000 security flaws fixed. Lance Whitney is a technology journalist with an IT background. He's written for TechRepublic, PCMag, Macworld, and Time, among others, He also teaches classes in AI, cybersecurity, and social media. The September Windows update finally lets you move the taskbar to any side. It also enhances the Start menu and Search window.

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Mozilla's latest Firefox update fixes 10 high-risk security flaws and rolls out small but useful features, from Switch Pro controller support to sortable tabs. The newest major release of Firefox 155 for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android brings a number of improvements, including support for Nintendo Switch Pro controllers and sortable tab groups. Mozilla has also patched over 30 security vulnerabilities, and updates are also available for the ESR versions of Firefox for older systems. The release of the next major version, Firefox 156, is already scheduled for September 15th, with time for a bug-fix update on September 8th.

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Google's latest Chrome update fixes 327 security flaws. None are being exploited in the wild, but you should update anyway. According to Google, none of the patched vulnerabilities are being exploited in the wild yet. Google has also released Chrome for Android 152.0.7977.64 and Chrome for iOS 152.0.7977.64 this week.