consumer experience Archives

AppWizard

November 13, 2025

While we eagerly await the second coming of Steam Machines, it’s worth remembering what a gloriously awful mess Valve got itself in over a decade ago

Valve is reintroducing Steam Machines, a concept that initially faltered nearly a decade ago. The original Steam Machines were announced in 2013 alongside SteamOS and the Steam controller but faced challenges due to Valve's partnership model with various vendors, leading to a disjointed consumer experience. The gaming landscape shifted with the success of Windows 10, which solidified its dominance over Linux. Despite the original Steam Machines' failure, Valve launched the Steam Deck in February 2022, taking direct control of hardware and software, which proved successful. The new generation of Steam Machines will feature a custom AMD APU with a Zen 4 CPU and RDNA 3 GPU, aiming to provide a better big-screen gaming experience, although it may have limitations in upgradeability. The reception of this new iteration remains uncertain as it approaches its market debut in 2026.

Tech Optimizer

October 7, 2025

MENXTT NG, Kecaam Tech To Bundle Bitdefender Antivirus On Devices

MENXTT NG has formed a strategic partnership with Kecaam Technologies Limited to enhance digital security for consumers in Nigeria. The collaboration will see MENXTT NG bundle Bitdefender Antivirus software with every laptop and tablet purchased through its platform, ensuring that devices arrive equipped with protection against malware and other online threats. This initiative aims to provide customers with a secure digital experience and reflects MENXTT NG's commitment to integrating cybersecurity with high-quality tech products. The partnership addresses the increasing cyber risks faced by consumers and positions MENXTT NG as a leader in the Nigerian tech retail market.

Tech Optimizer

September 12, 2025

Best Antivirus for Windows (September 2025): Avast Awarded Top PC Security Solution by Software Experts

Avast has been recognized as the top antivirus solution for Windows in Software Experts' September 2025 annual review. The evaluation highlighted Avast's effectiveness in addressing cybersecurity threats and its commitment to enhancing digital protection, privacy, and user experience. Avast Premium Security offers real-time threat protection, anti-scam intelligence, email and web safety, and integrates AI-powered tools for enhanced security. Avast Ultimate combines Avast Premium Security with additional tools like SecureLine VPN and AntiTrack, allowing activation on up to 10 devices. Additionally, Avast received recognition from AV-TEST as one of the best Windows antivirus software for home users in evaluations conducted during May and June 2025.

Tech Optimizer

September 11, 2025

Best Antivirus (September 2025): Avast Named Top Cybersecurity Software by Software Experts

Avast has been recognized by Software Experts as a leading cybersecurity provider, particularly for its antivirus solutions, including Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate. These products have shown exceptional performance across various platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Avast Premium Security offers multi-layered protection against threats like ransomware and phishing, while Avast Ultimate includes additional features like a VPN and anti-tracking technology. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, highlighting its perfect scores in protection, performance, and usability. AV-Comparatives recognized Avast as a Top Rated Product 2024 and awarded it the Real World Protection Award, while Virus Bulletin rated it with an A+ for a 99.69 percent detection rate. Avast has over 435 million users globally. The company’s products are designed to protect against various online threats, with features tailored for different operating systems. The latest innovation, Scam Guardian Pro, includes AI-powered tools to combat online fraud. Avast Ultimate combines multiple premium offerings under one subscription for comprehensive digital security.

Tech Optimizer

September 9, 2025

435 Million Users Protected: Avast Crowned Best Antivirus with Perfect 10/10 Security Score in 2025

Avast has been recognized by Software Experts as a top cybersecurity provider in its report on the best antivirus solutions for consumers and businesses. The recognition highlights Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate, which protect users across various platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Avast Premium Security offers multi-layered protection against threats like ransomware, phishing, and scams, while Avast Ultimate includes additional features such as a VPN, anti-tracking technology, and device cleanup utilities. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, achieving perfect scores in protection, performance, and usability. AV-Comparatives named Avast a Top Rated Product 2024 and awarded it a Real World Protection Award. Virus Bulletin granted Avast an A+ grade with a 99.69 percent detection rate and zero false alarms. Avast's Banking Mode was approved by the AV Lab Internet Banking Protection Test for secure online transactions. Avast Premium Security is the most widely adopted antivirus product, designed to defend against various threats while providing privacy and identity safeguards. It features Scam Guardian Pro, an AI-powered tool that protects against online fraud. Avast Ultimate combines four premium solutions under one subscription for up to ten devices, integrating VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for comprehensive digital security. Avast has over 435 million users globally and continues to adapt its solutions to evolving cybersecurity risks, emphasizing the importance of antivirus software in modern computing.

AppWizard

August 27, 2025

Spotify Adds In-App Messaging to Boost Social Sharing

Spotify is introducing an in-app messaging feature that allows users to engage in direct conversations within the app. This feature supports one-on-one chats and requires approval for new chat requests. Users can react with emojis, and messages are stored in the app's Messages section. The feature is currently available on mobile only for users aged 16 and older in select Latin and South American markets, with plans to expand to the US, Canada, Brazil, EU, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Messages are encrypted during transit and at rest, but not end-to-end encrypted. Users can disable the feature if desired.

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Spotify Launches In-App Messaging for Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks – Tech | Business

Spotify has launched a messaging feature that allows users to share music, podcasts, and audiobooks within the app, aimed at enhancing its social aspect. This feature is limited to one-on-one conversations among users with existing Spotify connections. To start a conversation, a request must be sent and approved. Users can also receive chat requests from links shared on external platforms. Conversations can be accessed in a new Messages section, where users can react with emojis and revisit shared content. The feature is encrypted but not end-to-end, and Spotify will scan chats for harmful content. Users can report and block accounts, and have the option to disable messaging. Currently, the feature is available to users aged 16 and above in select Latin American markets, with plans for expansion. Both free and premium users can access it on mobile devices. Some users have raised concerns about the potential clutter from added features.

AppWizard

August 8, 2025

Warner Bros. Discovery Adds 3.4 Million Streaming Subscribers, But “Minecraft” and “Sinners” Power Q2

Warner Bros. Discovery reported second-quarter earnings with a revenue of .8 billion, a slight increase from the previous year. Net income rose to .6 billion, a recovery from last year's loss, while adjusted EBITDA increased by 9% to billion. The studio segment generated .8 billion in revenue, a 55% year-over-year increase, driven by successful films like Minecraft and Sinners. The company plans to release 12 to 14 new films annually, including major tentpole films and titles from DC Studios and New Line. Streaming growth included the addition of 3.4 million subscribers, leading to an 8% revenue increase to .8 billion. The linear TV segment faced challenges, with revenue down 9% to .8 billion and adjusted EBITDA declining by 24% to .5 billion. WBD completed six major carriage renewals and is preparing for a strategic split, creating a new entity for its studios and HBO, while linear networks will become a separate company named Discovery. CEO David Zaslav emphasized limiting library content licensing to enhance HBO Max's appeal and highlighted ongoing efforts to revive franchises like Superman and Lord of the Rings. The company is also expanding into gaming and theme parks, with Bruce Campbell leading these initiatives. Zaslav discussed plans for bundling streaming services to improve consumer experience and noted the resilience of the TV advertising market despite economic pressures.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

Android users get another option to pay later with Klarna on Google Pay

Klarna has integrated with Google Pay, enhancing Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options for consumers during online checkout. This integration began on June 24 and will be available on select Android apps and websites that support Google Pay. Klarna's chief commercial officer, David Sykes, stated that this partnership advances the company's mission to offer transparent and adaptable payment solutions. Google Pay has been expanding its BNPL offerings since 2024, incorporating providers like Affirm and Zip. Additionally, Google has updated its card information interaction methods to include biometric security measures. There are also indications of a new feature for Google Wallet that would allow users to add cards via NFC technology, although users will still need to enter the card's CVV for security. The NFC Forum has suggested plans for broader NFC technology capabilities.