control Archives

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

I tried the redesigned Google Wallet app, and it fixes my 2 biggest complaints

Google has redesigned its Google Wallet app, introducing a new interface that has received positive user feedback. The updated design features passes displayed as small squares, allowing users to see double the number of passes on their screens. Users can now customize which passes are visible upon opening the app by starring their preferred passes. The app retains the ability to rearrange passes and access detailed information through barcodes or QR codes. A new "View more" button provides access to a comprehensive list of transactions and passes, along with a search bar for easy navigation. However, accessing the full list of passes requires a two-step process, which some users find cumbersome. Suggestions for improvement include adding a "View all passes" button and a search bar on the home screen for enhanced usability.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

Former Escape From Tarkov dev says “no amount of millions of dollars can save a weak product”

The shooter game market is currently saturated with both successful and unsuccessful multiplayer titles, making it challenging for developers to stand out. Dmitri Ogorodnikov, co-head of Nomion Games, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the complexities of creating a successful shooter. He points to the failures of games like Concord and Highguard, which struggled due to lackluster character design and muddled identities. Ogorodnikov believes that many big studios lose the essence of their games by relying too heavily on marketing and formulas. In contrast, Nomion aims to focus on quality gameplay and a clear vision for their upcoming title, Rush is Real, which is still in the prototyping phase. He asserts that the game will not be just another generic shooter and will prioritize unique ideas and quality over following market trends.

Tech Optimizer

April 11, 2026

Antivirus protection built into Windows

Windows 11 includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which is active from the moment the device is powered on and integrated into the operating system. It continuously updates to protect against various threats, including malicious files and unsafe links. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen evaluates the safety of websites and downloads, providing warnings for dubious content. Smart App Control prevents untrusted applications from executing, while Controlled folder access protects personal files from unauthorized modifications. Users can verify the operational status of Microsoft Defender Antivirus through Windows Security settings. Best practices for maintaining security include keeping the antivirus updated, using a single real-time antivirus engine, and enhancing security habits. Microsoft Defender Antivirus is generally sufficient for everyday risks, but additional third-party antivirus solutions may be considered based on individual needs.

Tech Optimizer

April 11, 2026

Overcoming barriers to database modernisation in the AI age

Enterprises in Malaysia are transitioning from legacy systems to modern infrastructure to facilitate AI deployment. A roundtable discussion highlighted the challenges of AI integration, emphasizing the need to reduce costs associated with outdated systems. Organizations are adopting hybrid cloud approaches and utilizing various databases to manage extensive data across multiple applications. The push for AI is driven by management and customer expectations, but employee willingness to upskill remains a challenge. Not all challenges require AI solutions, and starting with smaller use cases can lead to successful scaling. The adoption of open-source database systems like Postgres is increasing, necessitating reliable support to address issues and ensure application availability. Data sovereignty is a concern for enterprises operating in mixed environments, and EDB Postgres AI offers a platform that combines security with cloud agility. Reducing infrastructure costs is essential for freeing up resources for new initiatives.

Winsage

April 11, 2026

Big changes coming with Windows 11. Microsoft might be bidding goodbye to the Control Panel

Microsoft is set to launch a significant update for Windows 11 in April 2026, focusing on enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. The update will streamline the Settings interface, align dialog boxes with dark mode, and aim for a more intuitive user experience. Under design director March Rogers, the initiative seeks to address historical criticisms of Microsoft's design approach, emphasizing the alignment of form and function. Key features of the update include a clearer Settings layout, dark mode for legacy dialog boxes, the ability to move the Taskbar, voice input for File Explorer, and AI integration with Narrator. Additionally, the update will adapt to evolving hardware needs with improved stylus configuration for 2-in-1 devices. User feedback is being prioritized in design decisions to create a cleaner, more cohesive system.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

US government wants gamers to become air traffic controllers

The U.S. government is launching a campaign to attract gamers to become air traffic controllers, with Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy promoting the initiative on social media. The air traffic control sector is facing a staffing shortage of approximately 4,000 controllers, with only 11,700 certified professionals and trainees available. This shortage has been worsened by a government shutdown that resulted in 44 days of unpaid work for controllers, leading to retirements. The average salary for an air traffic controller reaches 0,000 after three years. Duffy described the hiring process as "supercharged" and emphasized the need to adapt communication strategies to engage younger demographics. Recent incidents, including a crash at LaGuardia Airport, have raised concerns about staffing levels, although Duffy stated that no critical safety personnel were affected by previous staff reductions.

BetaBeacon

April 11, 2026

Amazon’s idea of improving Luna involves stripping back most of it

Amazon Luna is removing game purchases, third-party subscriptions, and game stores, simplifying its offerings starting on April 10. Subscriptions to Ubisoft Plus and Jackbox through Luna will be automatically canceled after one final renewal at the end of the current billing cycle.

Winsage

April 10, 2026

France to Ditch Microsoft Windows as Europe’s War on American Tech Rages On

France has announced its intention to transition some of its government systems from Windows to Linux to reduce reliance on American technology. The initial phase will involve machines used by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs (DINUM), although a timeline for the transition has not been established. French Minister David Amiel stated that this move is part of a broader effort to regain control of digital sovereignty. Earlier this year, France banned public officials from using American videoconferencing platforms such as Google Meet, Zoom, and Teams. The European Commission is drafting legislation to promote tech sovereignty, but there are concerns about the security implications of moving away from American technology. Transitioning to Linux will require French government employees to adapt to open-source software, potentially replacing Microsoft Office 365 with alternatives like LibreOffice.

AppWizard

April 10, 2026

22 of Russia’s 30 most popular Android apps monitor whether users have VPN enabled, study finds

Recent research by RKS Global found that 22 out of the top 30 Android apps in Russia monitor users' VPN status. Banking apps like T-Bank, Sberbank, VTB, and Alfa-Bank are leading this trend, along with Yandex and VK applications such as Yandex Browser and VKontakte. Online marketplaces including Wildberries, Ozon, MegaMarket, and Samokat also track VPN usage. In total, 18 of the 30 apps transmit VPN status data to their servers, while 24 send lists of installed applications. Yandex Browser uniquely searches for the Tor browser, and Samokat and MegaMarket retrieve lists of installed VPN apps. The Russian Digital Development Ministry has mandated that major internet platforms restrict access for users with VPNs by April 15.

Winsage

April 10, 2026

French government says it is ditching Windows for Linux, here’s why

The French government is transitioning from Microsoft Windows to the open-source Linux operating system as part of a strategy to reclaim control over national data and reduce reliance on American software. This initiative, led by the Interministerial Directorate for Digital Affairs (DINUM), aims to ensure that France's data and infrastructure are not dictated by external entities. The government is conducting an audit of its digital infrastructure to find sovereign alternatives and has already confirmed its exit from Windows. The National Health Insurance Fund is migrating its 80,000 agents to tools developed on an interministerial digital platform, and the government plans to migrate its health data platform to a trusted domestic solution by the end of 2026.