COM Archives

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Windows 11 is finally getting better, and the Windows Central Podcast breaks down all the improvements that have been announced and delivered since March

In the latest episode of the Windows Central Podcast, hosts Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden discuss significant updates to Windows 11, including revamped context menus, enhancements to File Explorer, and a new feature that allows apps to launch in full-screen mode. Key highlights include: - Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 chips outperform Intel and AMD in recent laptop evaluations. - New customizable context menus in Windows 11 Insider builds improve speed and third-party app management. - File Explorer has received performance enhancements, eliminating freezing issues and providing a more polished user interface. - A new setting enables users to automatically launch applications in full-screen mode. - A retrospective look at quality-of-life improvements introduced to Windows 11 since March.

Tech Optimizer

August 24, 2026

Fake Microsoft security scans trick victims into uninstalling their antivirus

A surge of fraudulent websites claiming to verify antivirus software functionality has emerged, using the name SysScan and misleadingly asserting that Windows no longer supports third-party antivirus solutions. These sites conduct fake security scans, gather personal information, and set up a refund scam. Eleven such websites were found hosted on a single server, executing similar deceptive tactics. They can access basic browser data but cannot conduct genuine security scans. Microsoft continues to support third-party antivirus software, and legitimate refund processes do not require uninstalling security tools. The scams instruct users to remove their antivirus software to facilitate further manipulation and to collect information about the antivirus in use. The customer information forms collect extensive personal data and are designed to send this information to a Telegram bot API. Victims are promised a refund call after submitting their information, which is part of the scam's manipulation. Signs of such scams include claims of deep problems with the computer, consistently negative diagnostic results, requests to uninstall antivirus software, and demands for banking information. If affected, victims should disconnect from the internet, remove remote-access tools, and contact their bank. The hosting IP address for these sites is 157.230.180.90, with multiple associated domains listed.

BetaBeacon

August 24, 2026

PPSSPP vs Dolphin vs RetroArch Android: 127 Cores

PPSSPP is a dedicated PSP emulator that does not require a BIOS file to boot a game. Dolphin emulates GameCube and Wii consoles and requires newer Android versions for better performance. RetroArch is a frontend that loads separate cores for different systems, offering a wide range of emulation options.

Tech Optimizer

August 24, 2026

Malwarebytes Review 2026: Safe, But is Free Tier Enough?

Overall Rating: 4.3/5 ⭐ Protection: 4.3 ⭐ Performance: 3.9 ⭐ Features: 4.4 ⭐ Support: 4.8 ⭐ Value: 4.2 ⭐ Pricing starts at .99 for the first year, verified August 2026. Malwarebytes earned the AV-TEST TOP PRODUCT award in March-April 2026, scoring 17.5 out of 18 points. It successfully removed all infections in remediation tests and had no false detections across 1.5 million legitimate samples at AV-TEST. The software can coexist with other antivirus solutions and offers a free version with limited features. The free version lacks ongoing protection after 14 days, while the paid version provides real-time protection. Malwarebytes has a privacy policy stating it does not sell customer data and collects only necessary identifiers. The company was founded in 2008 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, California, having raised a total of 0 million, including a recent investment from Vector Capital in September 2022. It acquired AzireVPN in November 2024. Malwarebytes offers various plans, including Standard, Plus, and Total, with consistent renewal pricing. The Windows version includes comprehensive features, while the Mac version targets adware and browser hijackers. The Android app provides scanning capabilities and phishing protection, and the iPhone app focuses on scam text filtering. Customer support is efficient, with quick responses.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

XRPPower Launches Its Android App on Google Play, Expanding Access to AI-Powered Digital Asset Services

XRPPower has launched its mobile application on Google Play for Android users, enhancing accessibility to its digital platform with AI-driven tools and services. The app allows users to manage accounts, navigate the platform, and access support directly from their smartphones. It features a user-friendly interface and robust security measures, including encrypted data transmission and account authentication. The company aims to broaden access for global users, focusing on multilingual and mobile-oriented features. Since its inception in 2023, XRPPower has attracted over 3 million registered users across 180+ countries.

Tech Optimizer

August 23, 2026

Best cheap antivirus software 2026, reviewed by an expert

Your personal computer contains sensitive information that needs protection from threats like viruses and malware. Windows 11 includes Microsoft Defender, but users may opt for additional antivirus solutions. Effective antivirus options should be user-friendly and efficient. Many antivirus programs offer extra features such as VPNs and identity theft protection. The best cheap antivirus services in 2026 are: - Best overall – Norton 360 Deluxe: £29.99, Norton.com - Best premium option – Bitdefender Premium Security: £59.99, Bitdefender.com - Best for multiple devices – McAfee+ Premium: £49.99, Mcafee.com - Best with extra features – Surfshark One: £38.85, Surfshark.com Prices reflect the first year of service, and costs may increase in subsequent years. Disabling auto-renewal can help manage subscription expenses.

Winsage

August 23, 2026

Missing Link: 30 Years of Windows NT 4

Windows NT 4.0 was released in August 1996, marking a significant shift in the PC industry from 16-bit DOS to 32-bit operating systems. It combined the stability of the NT architecture with the user-friendly interface of Windows 95, featuring a familiar Start menu and a robust 32-bit kernel. NT 4.0 was available in both workstation and server variants, allowing Microsoft to compete with UNIX workstations and Novell NetWare in the network operating system market. It laid the groundwork for future operating systems, including Windows 2000 and Windows XP, by enabling a unified management interface for servers and workstations. At the time, PCs typically had at least 8 MB of memory, and installation required booting from a floppy disk with files sourced from a CD.

AppWizard

August 22, 2026

What is the ‘Android Pulse’ app that just appeared in Google Play Store updates?

Users may have noticed an app named “Android Pulse” in their Google Play updates, which appears as a blank square. This is a first-party Google application for "Defining anomalies for debugging," aimed at facilitating rule distribution for anomaly detection related to critical system resource consumption within the Android operating system and its applications. The app is integrated into Pixel devices as “Pulse” and has a heart rate-inspired green icon. “Android Pulse” has been available since March, with over 10 million downloads, and this is the first time it has appeared in the Play Store for manual installation.

Tech Optimizer

August 22, 2026

Bitdefender vs McAfee: How to pick the right antivirus for you in 2026

Viruses and malware pose ongoing threats to personal computers and sensitive data. Windows Defender is a free antivirus option, but dedicated solutions like Bitdefender and McAfee offer enhanced security. Bitdefender was established in 2001 and McAfee in 1987. Bitdefender Premium Security has a rating of 4.5/5, offers various plans, and is user-friendly with minimal system impact. Its pricing includes £59.99 for the Premium Security plan, which features a password manager, unlimited VPN, and other protections. McAfee+ Premium also has a rating of 4.5/5, is visually appealing, and includes a smart scan feature. Its pricing starts at £49.99 for the Premium plan, which protects unlimited devices and includes various security features. Bitdefender's pros include an affordable standard plan and a basic VPN, while cons include a requirement for a family plan for more than five devices and significant price increases in subsequent years. McAfee's pros include unlimited device protection and excellent security monitoring, with cons being potential high costs. Both antivirus solutions offer significant first-year discounts, with Bitdefender's basic protection starting at £17.99 for one device and McAfee's basic package starting at £29.99 for one device. In terms of features, Bitdefender includes a comprehensive suite with a password manager, while McAfee offers scam detection and a social privacy manager. Bitdefender's dashboard is user-friendly but may feel cluttered, while McAfee's dashboard is visually appealing and organized. Both provide 24/7 support, but Bitdefender's phone support may incur charges. The evaluation criteria included ease of use, features, value for money, and performance.

Winsage

August 22, 2026

Microsoft built a dedicated app that forces Bing everywhere on Windows 11, including Chrome, Firefox, and Brave

Microsoft has introduced a standalone application called MicrosoftSettings.exe that prompts users to change their default search engine to Bing across all browsers on their PC. This application is not force-installed via Windows Update or available in the Microsoft Store; it can be downloaded from Microsoft's official servers. Upon installation, it encourages users to add a Chrome extension named Microsoft Bing Homepage & Search, which alters search settings and directs users to the Microsoft Rewards page. The installation process features a welcome screen with a pre-set toggle for changing the search engine to Bing, applicable to Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, and Google Chrome. The extension has a 4-star rating and claims 5 million users, but it triggers alerts from Chrome regarding its permissions. Microsoft has also launched a sweepstakes for Bing users and made it possible to sign into Bing using Google or Apple accounts. Despite efforts to promote Bing, Microsoft has committed to decluttering MSN and simplifying its offerings in other areas.