ads Archives

Winsage

August 9, 2025

3 apps that are saying ‘no’ to Microsoft’s invasive Recall tool, and how you can too

Microsoft's Recall tool is currently available only on Copilot+ PCs, and users can easily disable it. There are concerns that Recall may become an integral part of Windows, limiting user control. Signal has developed a workaround to prevent Recall from capturing data by enabling screen security, which uses Microsoft's DRM to keep its windows blank during screenshots. Brave has implemented a similar strategy by labeling every browser window as a private browsing session, preventing Recall access while allowing screenshots. AdGuard has updated its functionality to specifically target Recall, providing an additional layer of protection for users concerned about data privacy.

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

I switched to this YouTube client and I’m never going back

YouTube has evolved into a platform filled with ads and a complex algorithm since its launch in the late 2000s. In response, many users have turned to NewPipe, an open-source streaming client developed in 2015, which offers a lightweight and efficient viewing experience without user data collection. NewPipe allows ad-free video playback, offline downloads, background playback, and picture-in-picture mode, while enabling users to create local playlists. However, it lacks features such as posting comments, YouTube Shorts, and algorithm-driven recommendations, which may limit content discovery. Although using NewPipe does not violate laws, it contravenes YouTube's terms of service, and while it eliminates ads, creators do not receive compensation through this platform. NewPipe is available on F-Droid and operates independently using publicly available data.

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

The Essential Android Apps You Should Try This August

As of August 2025, Android users have access to a variety of applications aimed at enhancing productivity, creativity, communication, and personal development. Notable apps include: - Stream Deck: Transforms Android devices into customizable control centers for tasks like live streaming and video editing. - Bit Chat: Enables offline communication via a Bluetooth mesh network, useful in areas without Wi-Fi or cellular service. - Cantra: Allows users to remove pre-installed apps without root access, improving device performance and storage. - GM Way: Customizes social media interactions by hiding notifications and ads to create a distraction-free environment. - Textband: Facilitates the creation of shortcuts for frequently used phrases, streamlining communication. - Timeark: Adds real-time timestamps, geotags, and labels to photos and videos for accurate documentation. - Rare Vision: Offers 1980s VHS-style video effects for retro-inspired content creation. - Adobe Firefly: Uses AI to simplify design tasks, enabling users to generate images and videos easily. - Nomad Table: Connects users to local events and meetups for networking and community engagement. - Imprint: Provides bite-sized lessons on various topics, making learning accessible for busy individuals.

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

I’m so tired of being advertised at, man

The digital landscape is saturated with advertisements, infiltrating various platforms such as e-readers, televisions, and music streaming services. This saturation has led to a focus on advertising over product quality, diverting resources from enhancing user experience to creating compelling promotions. While some alternatives like indie games and physical books still prioritize user satisfaction, they are becoming rarer. The aggressive advertising strategy aims to maximize revenue through volume, raising concerns about sustainability and the impact on consumer attention. The current trajectory suggests a need to reconsider the relationship between advertising and media consumption.

BetaBeacon

August 7, 2025

ACMarket App Free Download for Android

AC Market is a platform where Android users can get paid apps and moded games for free without the need to root their phone. The app has a user-friendly interface, fast download speed, daily updates, and a built-in app manager. It offers safe and scanned content, does not require sign up or login, and provides access to a variety of mod games and apps.

Winsage

August 7, 2025

Microsoft sneakily disguises Windows 11 Start menu ad as a warning

Microsoft has introduced a notification in the Start menu of Windows 11, urging users to back up their PCs with OneDrive. The alert, which reads “Action advised — back up your PC,” suggests users may risk losing access to files, apps, settings, and passwords. Users can either engage with the prompt to access OneDrive backup options or dismiss it, but there is no straightforward way to permanently disable the notification. OneDrive offers 5GB of free storage, with additional space requiring a Microsoft 365 subscription starting at .99 per month for 100GB or .99 per month for 1TB. Users in the European Union are exempt from this notification due to regulations that restrict Microsoft's promotional practices.

AppWizard

August 4, 2025

Over 11,000 Android devices hit by fake login RAT hidden in Meta Ads and fake Google Play store

A campaign has infected over 11,000 Android devices with a new variant of the PlayPraetor remote access trojan (RAT), identified by cybersecurity experts from Cleafy. The malware spreads through deceptive Google Play Store pages promoted via Meta Ads and SMS campaigns. Once installed, PlayPraetor can log keystrokes, steal credentials, and monitor the clipboard. Researchers have identified at least five distinct variants of PlayPraetor, including "Phantom" and "Phish."

AppWizard

August 4, 2025

These are my 5 favorite e-book reader apps, but one leaps out from the page

Traveling with a single book can be challenging for avid readers, leading many to use e-readers like Android tablets, which support various e-book reader apps. Readera is highlighted as a top choice for Android e-book reading, compatible with older devices and supporting multiple file formats (EPUB, DOC, MOBI, DJVU, CHM, AZW3). It features a nostalgic interface, customizable reading options, and a free version with a premium upgrade for additional features. Moon+ Reader is noted for its visually appealing library interface and excellent file management capabilities, including integration with cloud services and online libraries. It offers various themes and an innovative highlighting system, with ads that can be removed for a fee. Librera has a clean interface with search and sorting options, multiple reading modes, and context menus for web searches and dictionary lookups, though it lacks some advanced features of other apps. FBReader is recognized for its straightforward design and essential features, suitable for users who prefer simplicity. It supports plugins for expanded functionality and has a free version that meets most users' needs. Lithium is a lightweight reader that automatically organizes e-books and offers fast loading speeds, enhancing the reading experience on modern devices.

AppWizard

August 3, 2025

How To Play Your Steam Games On Any Chromebook

The gaming landscape on Chromebooks has changed with the introduction of Steam, allowing users to play a variety of games if their device meets the minimum requirements: an Intel i3 or Ryzen 3 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of storage. Users can download Steam by searching for "Steam installer" in the launcher, and once installed, they can use Valve's Proton to play Windows games on their Chromebook. Consulting ProtonDB can help users check game compatibility. Additionally, cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW enable access to Steam libraries, allowing high-resolution game streaming on Chromebooks. GeForce NOW supports up to 4K resolution and offers subscription options starting at .99 per month, with a free tier available.

AppWizard

August 3, 2025

15 Android Apps You NEED to Download in August 2025

A selection of 15 Android applications for August focuses on enhancing user experience through privacy, productivity, customization, media management, utility, and specialized needs. Ad-Blocking and Privacy: - Athena: Open-source app that blocks ads, trackers, and malware, allowing detailed control over internet access for individual apps. - App Lock: Secures sensitive applications with passcodes, fingerprints, or facial recognition. Customization and Widgets: - My Launcher: Feature-rich launcher with live tiles, widgets, and extensive customization options. - 1 UI Widgets: Offers over 240 customizable Samsung-style widgets for clocks, calendars, and more. Productivity Tools: - Tomato: Pomodoro timer for breaking tasks into manageable intervals. - My Mind: Minimalist app for organizing bookmarks, notes, and media. Media and Content Management: - Material Player: Ad-free video player supporting multiple formats and streaming. - Raven: Lightweight, open-source RSS newsreader for updates from favorite news sources. Utility and Accessibility: - Screenshot Editor, Blur Text: Edits screenshots and blurs sensitive information. - Speak That: Reads notifications aloud with customizable settings. - Screen Stream: Shares screen locally or globally for presentations and tutorials. Specialized Apps: - Torrent Search: Open-source tool for searching and downloading torrents. - Airplanes.live: Tracks real-time flight data for nearby aircraft. - One URL: URL shortener that generates QR codes and allows custom aliases. Rooted Device Tools: - Reddit: Removes ads from the official Reddit app for a cleaner browsing experience.