WINDOWS 10 & 11Create an account without signing into Microsoft
In Issue 679’s ‘Question of the Fortnight’ we explained how to disconnect from the internet in order to set up a new PC with a local account, rather than having to create an online Microsoft account. Another way to do this is to create an account using a fake email address and password – such as example@example.com (see screenshot below) and asdf. Because Microsoft prevents this account from being created, the Windows setup process will respond by letting you create a local account.
WINDOWS 11Remove the ‘Show hidden icons’ button
The system tray on Windows 11’s taskbar lets you open several important tools, like volume, internet connection and power status – as well as other icons depending on the apps and services you’re running. You can access these by clicking the ‘Show hidden icons’ arrow ( 1in our screenshot below).
If you never open these tools from the system tray, you might want to hide the arrow. First, tap Windows key+I to open Settings. Next, click Personalisation on the left, followed by Taskbar on the right, then ‘Other system tray icons’. Look for the ‘Hidden icon menu’ slider and set this to Off 2 . You’ll see the arrow vanish on your system tray.
WINDOWS 11Remove objects from photos
In the Moment 5 update for Windows 11, released in late February, Microsoft added a Generative Erase tool to its Photos app that lets you “fix and remove distractions” from your pictures.
Open the Photos app and choose a photo from your Pictures folder. Doubleclick to open it, then click ‘Edit image’. In the new window, click the Generative Erase button ( 1in our screenshot below), then, with the brush tool, draw over the object you want to remove.
In our example, we removed the lamppost 2 . When you erase an area, you’ll see ‘Area or object erased’ message at the bottom 3 . Click ‘Save options’ at the top then choose how to save your image.
LIBREOFFICE IMPRESSUse the Small Caps effect
Small Caps is a text effect that capitalises words or sentences, and makes the first letter of every word larger. LibreOffice has now added this tool to Impress, its presentation tool, so you can use it in your slideshows.
It’s part of LibreOffice 24.2, released in January, so check whether you’re using that version. Click ‘Help’ at the top of any LibreOffice tool, followed by ‘About LibreOffice’ at the bottom of the menu. In the box that appears, look for the numb
