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Winsage

June 9, 2026

Microsoft Releases June 2026 Patch Tuesday Updates

Microsoft's June 2026 Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 11 include enhancements for versions 25H2, 24H2, and the new 26H1, which is designed for new PCs with Qualcomm ARM chips. Key features of the update include: - Shared audio allowing two users to listen to the same audio stream via Bluetooth LE audio accessories. - NPU usage displayed in Task Manager for devices with NPUs, including optional columns for NPU and NPU Engine. - Multi-App Camera support enabling multiple applications to access the camera stream simultaneously. - Improvements to the Magnifier feature for clearer announcements and support for magnifying protected content. - Customizable user folder names during setup. - Optimized Windows Search functionality for locating local files with just two characters. - Performance enhancements through a “Low Latency Profile” for faster app launches and core shell experiences. The update also addresses a BitLocker security bypass vulnerability (CVE‑2026‑45585) that could allow attackers to circumvent BitLocker Device Encryption. The KB5095051 patch for version 26H1 includes support for shared audio over Bluetooth LE and features from the previous month's update, such as Xbox mode and expanded archiving support in File Explorer.

AppWizard

June 9, 2026

Android Auto vs. Android Automotive: 5 major things that separate the two

Android Automotive is an operating system that runs directly on a vehicle's hardware, allowing access to features like navigation and music streaming without needing a smartphone connection. It manages various car functions, including climate control and seat ventilation, and can interact with Google’s Gemini for system control. In contrast, Android Auto mirrors a smartphone's interface on the car's display and primarily provides access to screen and audio output. Updates for Android Auto are managed through the smartphone, while Android Automotive updates are delivered by the vehicle manufacturer, which can vary in timeliness. Android Auto is widely available across many vehicles, whereas Android Automotive is less common and requires manufacturers to integrate it into the car's architecture.

Tech Optimizer

June 9, 2026

I trusted Malwarebytes to secure my PC for a month

Malwarebytes is an effective antivirus solution that provides robust protection against cyber threats, identified and blocked threats efficiently during usage. The software features a user-friendly interface with a Dashboard that includes tools such as a system scanner, VPN, and Trusted Advisor, which assesses system security. The Privacy, Identity, Tools, and Scam Guard sections offer additional functionalities, including monitoring for data breaches and identifying fraudulent emails. Malwarebytes operates with minimal CPU resource usage while effectively blocking malware and phishing attempts. An independent evaluation by MRG Effitas confirmed its high performance, earning a Level 1 certification. Pricing for Malwarebytes Premium starts at an annual fee for the Standard plan, with additional options available.

AppWizard

June 9, 2026

The 5 Best Android Apps For Quick Photo Editing

Mobile photography has gained popularity due to high-end smartphone cameras, leading to a demand for convenient photo editing apps. Mainstream applications like Photoshop Express and Snapseed can be overwhelming for users seeking quick edits. Several user-friendly alternatives for Android users include: - Google Photos: Offers an Auto option for one-tap enhancements and organizes tools into categories like Actions, Markup, Filters, Lighting, and Color. It saves edited images as copies. - InFrame: Features instant editing tools with frames, filters, and effects, but lacks manual aspect ratio adjustments. It displays ads unless users subscribe to InFrame Pro. - Lensa: Provides an AI-powered Smart Adjust feature and over 60 filters. It includes sliders for manual adjustments and an Object Removal tool. - Adobe Express: A simpler alternative to Adobe's complex apps, offering an Auto Enhance feature and built-in Photoshop filters. It is free to download and use without an Adobe account. - Instasize: Focuses on a minimalist editing experience with over 130 filters and manual adjustments. Some advanced features require a subscription to Instasize Premium. The selection of these apps was based on their support for quick editing, straightforward interfaces, high ratings (minimum of 4.4 stars), and significant downloads (over 10 million).

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

NotebookLM just got a big upgrade, and research could get a lot easier

Google has upgraded NotebookLM to enhance its capabilities beyond simple document summarization, making the research process more efficient and reliable. The new features include: - NotebookLM can now automatically search the web and recommend sources, reducing manual reference gathering. - A cloud-based system allows NotebookLM to perform background tasks and generate various file types, including PDFs, spreadsheets, charts, images, and presentations. - The advanced Gemini 3.5 and Antigravity models improve the accuracy of responses and the handling of complex projects. - The tool previously relied on user-uploaded files for information but now offers more precise responses without placing the burden of reference collection on users. - Some features are currently available to Google AI Ultra subscribers and Workspace customers, with broader access expected soon.

Winsage

June 8, 2026

Meet the hidden Windows 11 tool that reveals what Task Manager misses

Microsoft has integrated Sysmon into Windows 11 through a system update, allowing it to operate in the background and log activities in the Windows Event Log. Indicators of suspicious processes include the absence of icons or descriptions, incorrect parent processes, spelling errors in names, unsigned executable files, packed executables, suspicious DLLs or services, open TCP/IP endpoints, and unusual URLs or character strings. To install Sysmon, users must access the Control Panel, enable Sysmon, and restart their PC. Activation requires running a command in the Command Prompt. Sysmon logs can be viewed in the Event Viewer under Microsoft > Windows > Sysmon > Operational. Users can filter events using an XML configuration file. After analysis, suspicious processes should be scanned with antivirus software, and files can be uploaded to VirusTotal for further examination. Sysmon continuously logs events, while Process Monitor captures snapshots of running processes, and both tools are available for free from Microsoft.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Android Sideloading in 2026: Which Apps Are Worth Installing Outside the Play Store

VidMate apk is a widely used application that operates outside the Play Store and continues to do so into 2026. Sideloading is the process of installing an Android app from a source other than the Google Play Store, using the APK file format. Android supports sideloading, allowing users to enable installations from unknown sources in their device settings. As of 2026, Google requires developers distributing apps outside the Play Store to register, verify their identity with a government-issued ID, and pay a one-time fee. This policy aims to enhance security without eliminating sideloading. Enforcement began in select countries in September 2026 and will continue globally through 2027. Concerns have been raised about the potential barriers this creates for independent developers. In 2026, apps from developers with official websites and established histories are considered safer, while those from anonymous sources carry increased risks. Notable categories of sideloaded apps include video downloaders like VidMate, open-source YouTube clients like NewPipe, ad-blocking browsers, and privacy-focused tools. To install sideloaded apps safely, users should enable the option to install from unknown sources in their device settings and download from official developer websites or trusted repositories like APKMirror, F-Droid, or GitHub. Users should avoid sites that do not identify the app's creator or host unverified uploads.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Pirated PC games are delivering password-stealing malware

A surge in Windows malware campaigns has been identified, with malicious software hidden in pirated PC games and modified installers for popular franchises like Far Cry, Need for Speed, FIFA, and Assassin’s Creed. Over 400,000 devices globally have been affected, with around 30,000 cases in the United States. The malware, known as the "RenEngine loader," is disguised as a legitimate game launcher and infects systems when users download cracked games. It aims to deploy an infostealer called ARC, which can capture sensitive information such as passwords and cryptocurrency wallets, and may also install other harmful payloads like the Rhadamanthys stealer and Async Remote Access Trojan (RAT). Users often remain unaware of their infection until significant damage occurs. Recommendations for safety include avoiding unofficial downloads, using up-to-date anti-malware protection, and regularly updating software.

Tech Optimizer

June 8, 2026

I trusted Malwarebytes to secure my PC for a month

Malwarebytes is a cybersecurity solution that provides robust antivirus protection and features like a system scanner, VPN, and Trusted Advisor for security assessment. The installation process is simple, and users can navigate its intuitive interface easily. Trusted Advisor helped improve a user's security score from 49 to 83 by suggesting enhancements. The software includes sections for Privacy, Identity, Tools, and Scam Guard, which analyzes suspicious emails and screenshots. During testing, Scam Guard successfully identified a fraudulent email. Malwarebytes operates in the background with minimal CPU usage, effectively blocking threats and providing a detailed history of blocked malware. An independent evaluation by MRG Effitas awarded Malwarebytes a Level 1 certification for its performance. Pricing for Malwarebytes starts at an annual rate for the Standard plan, with additional options available for families and small businesses. It is recommended for its comprehensive protection compared to typical antivirus solutions.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Google Enables Android Apps With AppFunctions For Gemini

Google has introduced AppFunctions, a framework for Android that allows applications to expose callable functions to AI assistants, currently in experimental preview. This framework enables apps to register capabilities with an OS-level registry, requiring specific permissions for callers, including agents and assistants, to maintain user privacy and security. As of May 2026, integration with Gemini is in a private preview for select testers. AppFunctions targets devices running Android 16 or higher and provides developers with tools like an agent skill and Jetpack tooling for creating Kotlin bindings. The framework aims to enhance Gemini's capabilities, allowing it to use multiple extensions and execute background agent skills, facilitating automation of tasks for users.