cellular data Archives

AppWizard

April 8, 2026

Google’s $135M Android data settlement is getting closer, and you can now set your payout method

Android users in the US can claim payouts from a million settlement with Google related to a class action lawsuit over unauthorized data collection. Eligible users must have used Android with cellular data between November 2017 and the final approval date. Payout options include PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, ACH, or a virtual card. The maximum payout is estimated to be around [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: What you need to know Android users in the US can now start the process of claiming payouts as Google begins settling the 5 million data lawsuit case. Eligible users must have used Android with cellular data between November 2017 and the final approval date. Users can choose payouts via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, ACH, or virtual card through the settlement website. Final payouts depend on claims and approval, with a maximum of about 0 expected per eligible user. In an unexpected turn of events, Android users across the United States are now presented with an opportunity to claim their share of a 5 million settlement from Google. This follows a class action lawsuit that has been in the spotlight since November 2020, where allegations surfaced regarding the unauthorized collection and transfer of users' cellular data. The lawsuit contended that Android devices were engaging in "passive data transfers" even when users believed their phones were inactive—apps closed, location services disabled, and the device seemingly idle. As Google moves towards settling this case, eligible users can now visit the settlement website to select their preferred payment method. Options include popular platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, ACH, or even a virtual Mastercard. It's important for users to complete the payment election form; otherwise, the Settlement Administrator will make attempts to send payments without a specified method, which could lead to complications in receiving funds. However, California residents should note that they are excluded from this settlement due to a separate lawsuit totaling 4 million. For those eligible, the maximum payout is estimated to be around 0 per person, although the final amount will fluctuate based on the number of claims submitted and necessary deductions for administrative costs, taxes, and legal fees. While users can currently only file their payment preferences, actual payouts will be processed following the final approval hearing set for June 23, 2026. Payments will only be issued if the settlement receives the green light at that time. Android Central's Take The prospect of receiving free money is always appealing, yet this situation also serves as a reminder of how casually our data can be utilized in the background—without any admission of wrongdoing from Google. While 0 may not be a life-altering sum, for those eligible, there’s certainly no reason to forgo the opportunity to file a claim." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] per eligible user, depending on claims and administrative costs. California residents are excluded from the settlement. Actual payouts will be processed after a final approval hearing set for June 23, 2026.

Winsage

February 26, 2026

Windows 11 February 2026 Update Is Now Available With 3 New Features

Microsoft has released a non-security feature preview update for Windows 11, designated as version KB5077241, which introduces performance and visual enhancements. This optional update is available for all Windows 11 users and is not yet part of the stable channel, with a full release expected on March 10. Key features of the update include: 1. A built-in network speed test accessible via the taskbar, allowing users to evaluate their network connection's performance. 2. Improvements to the taskbar search function, enabling result previews without opening additional windows. 3. Minor system upgrades, including backup and restore options for select Windows Professional devices, new emojis, an updated accounts menu, a built-in system monitor, and a revamped widgets settings menu. 4. Enhancements to printing services, nearby sharing features, and Windows Update, along with new camera settings for supported devices. 5. Performance improvements in File Explorer, including more reliable window opening using shortcuts and the introduction of an "Extract All" option for non-ZIP archived folders. 6. Optimizations in the Network page of File Explorer for better device display and improvements in display responsiveness after sleep.

AppWizard

January 20, 2026

How to Get Samsung Galaxy’s Best Feature on Your Pixel (or Any Android)

The Panels app developed by Fossor Coding is an alternative to Samsung's Edge Panels, offering features such as custom icon packs, quick search shortcuts, and floating widgets. Users can customize the app by repositioning the trigger point, setting up multiple columns (up to seven), and adding various items to the sidebar, including applications, shortcuts, app pairs, accessibility options, system preferences, websites, floating widgets, folders, contacts, and quick search. The free version allows for three columns and nine rows, while the paid version offers additional capabilities for .50. To customize, users must install the app, grant permissions, and use the View button to set up their panel. A pro tip for efficiency includes keeping a thumb on the screen after swiping in to quickly select and launch apps or shortcuts.

Tech Optimizer

December 30, 2025

How to Run an iPhone Malware Scan: Find and Remove Viruses

iPhones do not support traditional antivirus applications due to iOS's app sandboxing feature, which limits apps' access to system-level data. Users can identify potential malware by monitoring for unusual behaviors, such as overheating, fast battery drain, unexpected data usage spikes, unwanted Safari pop-ups, unfamiliar apps, repeated login prompts, and strange messages sent from their accounts. To investigate for malware, users should check device performance, review storage and data usage, monitor battery usage, and look for jailbreak indicators. If malware is suspected, users can take steps such as updating iOS and apps, restarting the device, deleting suspicious apps, clearing Safari data, removing unknown profiles, resetting network settings, restoring from a clean backup, or performing a factory reset as a last resort. iOS includes built-in protections against malware, such as App Store reviews, sandboxing, code signing, and regular security updates. However, iPhones are not completely immune to threats, and jailbreaking increases vulnerability. To protect against malware, users should keep iOS and apps updated, use strong passcodes, avoid jailbreaking, be cautious with links and attachments, use secure browsers, and consider using a VPN on public Wi-Fi. CyberGhost VPN can provide additional security on unsecured networks by encrypting internet traffic. While iPhones do not have built-in malware scanners, they incorporate various protections to prevent malware from reaching the device. Signs of potential malware include overheating, rapid battery drain, unexpected data usage spikes, and unusual app behavior. Malicious apps can occasionally bypass App Store scrutiny, and users should take immediate action if they suspect an infection. Generally, iPhones are considered more secure than Android devices due to stricter app controls.

Winsage

December 25, 2025

Long-lost Windows 10 Andromeda firmware surfaces for first-gen Duo

The DuoWOA Project has released the Windows 10 Andromeda OS firmware and installation instructions for the first-generation Microsoft Surface Duo. This OS was originally designed for the device before Microsoft switched to Android. While users can now explore Andromeda OS, several functionalities, including sensors, cellular data, sleep mode, and brightness control, are not operational. Users may also experience elevated device temperatures while using Andromeda OS. The Surface Duo features two 5.6-inch AMOLED panels with a resolution of 1800×1350, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor, 6GB of RAM, and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, along with a 3,577 mAh battery that supports 18W charging.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

5 Free Android Apps That Act As Digital Burner Phones

The demand for burner phone numbers has increased due to privacy concerns, leading to the availability of several free applications that provide temporary phone numbers. Hushed is an Android app that offers burner numbers with support for over 300 area codes in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, ensuring user anonymity and features like voicemail, call forwarding, and auto-reply. It operates on VoIP and requires a subscription after a free trial. Burner allows users to create temporary numbers while maintaining anonymity, using actual cell phone minutes. It includes spam-blocking and Do Not Disturb features and is available for free with a trial on the Google Play Store. Call.com supports multiple burner numbers (up to four) from various countries and allows cost-effective international calling via VoIP. It requires a subscription for full access, with in-app credits available for testing. Second Number enables users to create numbers from over 20 countries and supports VoIP, call forwarding, voicemail, and group conference calls. It offers the option to port numbers to major carriers and is available for free on the Google Play Store. Text Me allows users to create multiple phone numbers from various countries and supports VoIP for calls and messaging. It includes features like call forwarding and blocking and is also available for free on the Google Play Store.

Winsage

August 29, 2025

Microsoft is Removing the Mobile Plans App from Windows 11

Microsoft will retire the Mobile Plans app in Windows 11 by February 2026 to simplify the process of connecting PCs to mobile data. Users will manage cellular plans through web browsers and the Settings app instead of the app. The Mobile Plans app, which allowed users to discover mobile operators and manage pay-as-you-go plans, is becoming redundant as these tasks can now be done online. Existing eSIM profiles will remain functional, but management will shift to carriers' websites. Notifications about the app's end of support will be sent to users, and it will be removed from the Microsoft Store after February 27, 2026. Cellular carriers are adapting their systems for web-based activations to support this transition.