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How to stop audio from auto-playing on Android Auto
AppWizard
October 20, 2026

How to stop audio from auto-playing on Android Auto

Many drivers experience unexpected audio playback when starting their vehicle with Android Auto, as the last listened-to content resumes at the previous volume. To stop this autoplay, users can disable the "Start music automatically" option in Android Auto's settings under Settings > Connected devices > Android Auto. If this does not resolve the issue, it may be related to Bluetooth interactions. Users are advised to remove their phone from the car's Bluetooth memory and reconnect via USB. Additionally, Bluetooth devices paired with the phone can influence autoplay behavior, and users should test different devices to identify the cause. Keeping Spotify and device software updated may help, but a universal solution is not guaranteed. If necessary, users can remove Spotify from Android Auto, though this will limit access to the app through the car's display.
Why Windows 11 still won't let you name a file CON, and Microsoft's explanation goes back to MS-DOS
Winsage
October 19, 2026

Why Windows 11 still won’t let you name a file CON, and Microsoft’s explanation goes back to MS-DOS

In Windows 11, certain names such as CON, PRN, AUX, and NUL are reserved as they correspond to specific devices, preventing users from naming folders with these terms. These reserved names date back to DOS 1.0, where folders did not exist. The names have specific functions: CON refers to the console, PRN to the printer, AUX to an auxiliary device, and NUL to a null device that discards output. Attempts to rename a folder to any of these names result in an error message indicating the device name is invalid. Adding extensions to these names does not bypass the restriction, as names like NUL.txt are still treated as equivalent to NUL. Despite some changes in Windows 11, the prohibition against using these reserved names for files or folders remains in place due to legacy compatibility concerns.
Why Windows 11 still ships with Windows 95’s memory manager hidden inside it
Winsage
October 19, 2026

Why Windows 11 still ships with Windows 95’s memory manager hidden inside it

Windows 11 includes a compatibility feature called EmulateHeap, which allows legacy applications to access Windows 95’s memory management system. This feature is present in the Windows 11 26H2 version and enables users to run older applications that depend on the original memory manager. Microsoft modified Windows 95's memory management specifically for the game SimCity, creating a workaround that prevented memory from being freed immediately. EmulateHeap was developed to address compatibility issues for various applications that relied on Windows 95's memory management quirks. It works by redirecting an application’s heap calls to mimic the behavior of Windows 95. EmulateHeap is part of the Compatibility Administrator tool within the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK), which supports Windows 11 26H2. Users can locate EmulateHeap in the Compatibility Administrator by creating a new database and searching for compatibility fixes. Despite this support, some users have reported issues with certain games after updates. Microsoft continues to support Windows 95’s heap manager for select older applications but has discontinued support for others, like 3D Pinball, due to technical limitations.
How to protect your PC from malware
Tech Optimizer
October 16, 2026

How to protect your PC from malware

Malware, short for "malicious software," is designed to gain unauthorized access to computers or networks for purposes such as data theft and surveillance. It can be introduced through disguised software or deceptive links. To protect against malware, it is essential to install antivirus software, scan external drives before connecting them, be cautious about downloads, avoid suspicious websites and emails, update applications regularly, enable Tamper Protection on Windows, minimize file sharing, enable Firewall protection, watch out for phishing attacks, and back up data regularly. The future of malware protection may involve leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance detection and analysis of threats.
Malware Found Pre-Installed In Thousands Of Budget Android Phones - Here's What We Know
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Malware Found Pre-Installed In Thousands Of Budget Android Phones – Here’s What We Know

A report from Bitdefender reveals a malware campaign named "Midnight Mimosa" affecting budget and midrange Android smartphones, particularly those using low-energy MediaTek chipsets. This malware, embedded in devices marketed under various labels like Cubot and Doogee, operates through an application called "System" (package name com.android.system.lite) that displays hidden ads and can allow hackers to control the devices. Thousands of devices have been tracked with this malware, with 13% of affected devices located in Mexico, 8% in the United States, and less than 3% in Canada. The malware's source traces back to Android ODM Shenzhen Zediel. Additionally, Bitdefender identified 13 other ad fraud-related apps signed by the same entity that were previously available on the Google Play Store. Major manufacturers like Google, Motorola, and Samsung have security protocols to protect their firmware, unlike the affected budget brands.
"A new PC is a meaningful purchase" — Microsoft thinks Windows 11 is finally good enough to be the selling point
Winsage
October 15, 2026

“A new PC is a meaningful purchase” — Microsoft thinks Windows 11 is finally good enough to be the selling point

Microsoft has announced significant updates to Windows 11, including enhancements to the Photos app, an upgraded Search experience currently being tested with Windows Insiders, and improved phone integration. Key features include faster Bluetooth pairing with AirPods, which is up to 15 seconds quicker, and gaming improvements through Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) that reduce initial game load times for titles like Forza Horizon 6 and Gears of War: E-Day. Microsoft has also introduced an Xbox 25th Anniversary bundle with over 0 worth of games, including Skyrim Special Edition, Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Age of Empires II Definitive Edition, Minecraft Dungeons, and Gears of War: Reloaded. The company is encouraging users to consider new hardware as it implements changes based on user feedback through its Windows K2 initiative.
Microsoft admits a Windows 11 bug is causing stutter in games, and it’s not your mouse or drivers’ fault
Winsage
October 14, 2026

Microsoft admits a Windows 11 bug is causing stutter in games, and it’s not your mouse or drivers’ fault

Microsoft released the October 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5127648) for Windows 11, which fixes a mouse input stuttering bug affecting certain games. This issue was acknowledged in the release notes, stating that the update resolves the stuttering problem. The fix was not included in the optional preview released on September 22. While specific causes and affected games were not disclosed, anecdotal evidence suggests the problem originated from Windows itself. Users reported erratic mouse behavior in games like Star Wars: The Old Republic and Final Fantasy XIV, with persistent issues even after trying various fixes. The update brings Windows 11 versions to Build 26300.9711 for 26H2, Build 26200.9711 for 25H2, and Build 26100.9711 for 24H2, marking the final release for Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro. An offline installer is available for those having trouble with Windows Update. If stuttering continues, users are advised to check for outdated drivers or other potential issues.
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