Airbnb Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 12, 2025

Defendnot: A Tool That Disables Windows Defender by Registering as an Antivirus

Cybersecurity developers have created a tool called defendnot, which disables Windows Defender by utilizing undocumented Windows Security Center (WSC) APIs. This tool is a successor to the no-defender project, which was taken down due to DMCA challenges. The developer reverse-engineered WSC’s validation algorithms and identified Taskmgr.exe as a suitable process to host the necessary code. Defendnot persists across reboots by adding itself to Windows autorun and can be managed via a command-line interface with options to disable Windows Defender and Windows Firewall. Unlike its predecessor, defendnot does not use third-party antivirus code. Security experts warn that disabling protection mechanisms should only be done in controlled environments by knowledgeable users.

AppWizard

April 11, 2025

I really wish these 7 apps worked on Android Auto

Google's Android Auto has the potential to enhance the driving experience through the integration of various apps, which are currently limited due to safety concerns. Anticipated additions include: - Google Tasks: Allows access to to-do lists and checklists directly from the car dashboard, facilitating pre-trip preparations and reminders. - Google Keep: Provides quick access to stored information like road trip plans and addresses, improving efficiency for passengers. - Airbnb: Enables reading host messages aloud and accessing check-in procedures and contact information while driving. - Google Drive: Offers quick access to important documents and reservation confirmations on the Android Auto screen. - Slack: Could allow users to manage workplace communication and respond to messages safely while on the road. - Fitbit: May provide insights into health metrics like heart rate during driving, potentially suggesting optimal driving times and rest breaks. - YouTube: Could allow access to audio content while driving, with video playback available when parked. These apps could significantly enrich the Android Auto experience, making it safer, more enjoyable, and efficient.

AppWizard

November 19, 2024

This app brings the Pixel Screenshots experience to any Android device

PixelShot is an Android app developed by Mehul Kanzariya that enhances screenshot management for all Android devices, extending features previously exclusive to the Pixel 9 series. It uses on-device AI to analyze screenshots, allowing users to search for extracted text and relevant information. Users can add notes, organize screenshots into collections, and the app is free and ad-free for devices running Android 11 or later. While it does not upload screenshots to the cloud, it sends extracted text for summarization using a cloud-based AI model, with assurances that the text is not stored online. Limitations include the potential introduction of in-app purchases or ads as the user base grows, the inability to process images without text, and the need for manual checks to ensure screenshots are processed, as the app does not analyze them in the background.

AppWizard

October 28, 2024

Disgraced ex-TV chef promotes Airbnb on messaging app

Former television chef Pete Evans is promoting an Airbnb getaway in Byrill Creek, New South Wales, available for short stays from November to January. Since launching in July 2023, the property has received five-star reviews and is described as a health retreat featuring amenities like a sauna, ice bath, mineral spa, magnesium pool, and natural swimming holes. Additionally, Evans and his partner have secured an offer for their wellness retreat, Evolve Sanctuary, which accommodates up to 17 guests and is recognized in wellness tourism. The property is being marketed with options for new owners to start a business or maintain rental operations with Evans. Evans has also recently changed his hairstyle, dyeing his hair blonde.