account management Archives

AppWizard

May 15, 2025

No, your Steam info isn’t being sold on the dark web: Valve confirms the Steam leak was just a bunch of old, harmless texts and “you do not need to change your passwords”

Valve addressed concerns about a potential data leak affecting Steam accounts, confirming that while a data leak did occur, it was limited to outdated text messages containing one-time validation codes that expire after 15 minutes. The only information potentially accessed was the phone numbers to which these messages were sent, which poses minimal risk. Valve stated that users do not need to change their passwords or phone numbers due to this event.

Winsage

May 5, 2025

Microsoft silently fixes Start menu bug affecting Windows 10 PCs

Microsoft has resolved a problem that disrupted the functionality of Start Menu jump lists on Windows 10, version 22H2. The issue originated from a Controlled Feature Rollout (CFR) initiated in March 2025, which aimed to enhance account control but led to complications. Microsoft paused the rollout in late April 2025 after receiving user feedback about the inability to view jump lists for apps. The problematic rollout was halted on April 25, 2025, preventing new devices from encountering the glitch. The issue mainly affected users of Windows 10 Home and Pro editions. Affected users are advised to ensure their devices are connected to the internet and to restart their systems to apply the fix.

AppWizard

April 13, 2025

Google app removing Assistant settings on Android

The Google app version 16.12+ has removed the link to "Google Assistant" from the profile menu under Settings, affecting how users access Assistant settings. Users can still manage Assistant settings through the Google Home app or by navigating through System Settings on their mobile device. Some users have also noted that "Gemini" is not present in the Google app settings, which primarily focuses on Google Search functionalities.

Winsage

March 29, 2025

Microsoft cracks down on Windows 11 users who don’t log in with Microsoft accounts

Microsoft is increasingly favoring the use of Microsoft accounts over traditional local accounts in Windows 11, reflecting a trend towards online connectivity. The ability to create local accounts has been further restricted, with the removal of the bypassnro.cmd script that allowed users to set up local accounts without internet access. Users must now complete the setup process with internet connectivity and a Microsoft account. Third-party tools like Rufus still allow the creation of local accounts during installation, providing a workaround for those who prefer local accounts.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Keeper Security Enhances WearOS App and Android Offline Mode

Keeper Security has enhanced its Keeper WearOS app, previously known as KeeperDNA, to improve security and user experience for smartwatch users. The app now aligns with Google's Android guidelines, featuring a modern interface that allows users to securely view stored credentials and utilize Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) more easily. Key features include Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) code viewing, Watch Favorites for quick access to frequently used logins, and improved offline functionality that allows users to access Keeper data without an internet connection. The account setup process has been simplified, and users can manage offline access and 2FA settings separately. The updated app is available on the Google Play Store and supports zero-knowledge encryption. Future updates are planned to include passkey support and standalone functionality for managing security directly from wearable devices.

AppWizard

February 25, 2025

What’s new in Android’s February 2025 Google System Updates [U: 2/24]

The monthly "Google System Release Notes" detail updates and features for various platforms, including Play services, Play Store, and Play system updates for Android devices, Wear OS, Google/Android TV, Auto, and PC. Key applications in the "Google System" include Google Play Services, Google Play Store, Google Wallet, and Android System Intelligence. The appearance of a feature in the changelog does not guarantee immediate availability. Recent updates include: - School Time: A feature for parents to manage phone functionalities during school hours on supervised phones. - Google Play services v25.07: Notifications for available phone updates and alerts for digital ID card issuer availability. - Google Play Store v45.1: Updated deep link experience and user experience for purchase offers. - Android System Intelligence V.21: Resolved user interface issues in Live Captions. - Google Play services v25.06: New developer features for Utilities-related processes and enhancements for digital wallet processes. - Google Play Store v45.0: Sponsored suggestions now include descriptions and improved search for Play Collections. - Google Play services v25.05: New developer features for Device Connectivity and improvements to Quick Share. - Google Play Store v44.9: Availability of Collections on Android 10-12 devices and remote installation of watch faces. - Google Play services v25.04: Simplified family group management and support for Machine Learning & AI processes for developers. - Google Play Store v44.8: UI updates for Play Games profile creation and updates for evaluating app quality on tablets and ChromeOS devices.

AppWizard

February 11, 2025

T-Mobile has finally pulled the plug on its legacy app

The T-Mobile app has reached the end of its lifecycle and is now non-functional. T-Mobile removed the app from the Play Store and App Store in November. Users are prompted to update to the new T-Life app, which reflects T-Mobile's strategy to enhance online support for account management. The transition to the T-Life app indicates a shift towards digital solutions, with concerns about potential reductions in physical store locations. Downloading the T-Life app is now essential for managing accounts without visiting a store.

AppWizard

February 8, 2025

The PlayStation Network has been taken completely offline across all platforms for more than half a day, preventing online gaming, store purchases, game updates, and more

Access to the PlayStation Network (PSN) is being restored for some PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 users after an outage that began on February 8, 2025, at 1 AM CET. The outage affected PSN logins and services across all platforms, including PS5, PS4, PS3, PS Vita, and PC, and lasted over 16 hours. Sony acknowledged the issue via a tweet but has not clarified the cause of the disruption. Users have reported difficulties with offline gaming due to dependencies on PSN, such as digital rights management (DRM) checks and day-one updates. The situation has led to increased panic and confusion among customers, reminiscent of the 2011 PSN hack and outage.

AppWizard

December 16, 2024

Google Account switcher gets fullscreen redesign on Android, starting with Gmail

Google is rolling out a fullscreen account switcher in its first-party applications, starting with Gmail for Android. This new design replaces the previous overlay style and fully occupies the display, featuring Dynamic Color theming and a simple closure option. Users see their email address and profile image prominently, along with a "Manage your Google Account" button. The interface includes a collapsible list for account management and maintains a "Storage used" line, along with links to the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of service." While this design aims for cross-device consistency, it raises questions about the necessity of a fullscreen interface for quick actions like account switching. The familiar swipe gesture for power users remains available. Currently, this interface is observed in Gmail for Android version 2024.11.24.x and is not yet widely deployed.