Nine stories. What changed. Why it matters.
SearchUseful applications, browser features and the choices that shape everyday computing.
The Software desk at Next F9 follows applications, browsers and the settings that shape everyday computing, with release dates and what changes for the people using them. News covers releases such as Chrome 154 and GitHub’s new default policy for Copilot features; explainers cover passkeys, browser extension permissions and local-first apps that keep your files on your device.
Apple says granting an app access to everything on a Mac will require very explicit user action. It has not said when.
GitHub's policy preserves explicit choices and sets a default for eligible unconfigured Copilot features.
Chrome 154 adds content-sized embeds, scroll-marker modes and text-decoration controls.
Encryption protects a message between its endpoints.
App codes avoid phone-number delivery, but app and SMS codes can both be phished.
A small device that proves it is you when you sign in, and that a fake login page cannot trick.
Compare an extension's requested access with the task you expect it to perform.
Local-first software keeps a usable copy on your device and synchronizes it with other copies.
A passkey lets you sign in with your fingerprint, face or device PIN instead of a password.
