convert Archives

BetaBeacon

June 18, 2026

Fake virus alerts are invading mobile games

Cybercriminals sometimes manage to buy advertising space and use it to defraud gamers. The iCloud storage scam is a well-known scam that claims you need to expand your storage or all your files will be deleted. Scammers also use fake warnings to trick users into clicking links or downloading harmful software. Fleeceware apps lure users in with short free trials that quickly convert into hidden subscription fees. The best response to these messages is to ignore them and use an up-to-date anti-malware solution on your devices.

AppWizard

June 17, 2026

Pixel phones just got the biggest multitasking upgrade in years — here’s how to use it

The app bubbles feature in Android 17 is now available to all users, enhancing multitasking on devices like the Google Pixel 10a. Users can create app bubbles by long-pressing an app in the app drawer and selecting the Bubble option, allowing for up to five app bubbles at a time. This feature helps users manage multiple tasks more efficiently, as it allows for quick access to frequently used apps such as Slack, Gmail, YouTube, and Instagram. The setup can be customized based on personal usage habits, making it easy to integrate into daily routines.

Tech Optimizer

June 7, 2026

Implementing real-time change data capture with Debezium for Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL and Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL

Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition and Amazon RDS for PostgreSQL now support native streaming replication, allowing data changes to flow from source databases. Organizations often struggle to capture and propagate these changes in real time without affecting database performance. Traditional ETL pipelines can introduce significant delays, leading to outdated data and missed opportunities. Debezium is an open-source platform for change data capture (CDC) that monitors databases and streams changes to applications or data pipelines, enabling real-time data synchronization. The CDC solution combines PostgreSQL's logical replication with Debezium's change capture framework, focusing on Amazon Aurora for PostgreSQL. To implement this solution, logical replication must be enabled on Amazon Aurora through DB cluster parameter groups. Debezium connectors monitor the database's Write-Ahead Logging (WAL) via logical replication slots, converting transaction logs into structured event streams. Key components of the solution include: - Amazon Aurora for PostgreSQL as the source database with logical replication enabled. - A Debezium PostgreSQL connector running on MSK Connect for change capture. - Amazon MSK for message streaming. - An Amazon EC2 instance for testing and consuming change events. Steps to implement the solution include: 1. Creating an Amazon Aurora for PostgreSQL DB cluster and enabling logical replication. 2. Creating an Amazon MSK serverless cluster. 3. Setting up an Amazon EC2 instance to install Kafka and connect to the database. 4. Creating a custom plugin for Amazon MSK to replicate changes from RDS for PostgreSQL. 5. Uploading the custom plugin to an Amazon S3 bucket. 6. Storing credentials in AWS Secrets Manager and creating an IAM role for MSK Connect. 7. Testing the solution by verifying data replication and monitoring real-time changes. Monitoring can be done through CloudWatch Logs and the MSK Connect console, addressing common issues like replication slot lag and connector failures. To avoid charges, resources created during the implementation should be deleted in the correct order.

Tech Optimizer

June 6, 2026

PostgreSQL vs SQL Server 2026: $0 vs $15K License

PostgreSQL has become the most utilized database for developers for two consecutive years as of 2026, while SQL Server has introduced native AI capabilities and vector search functionalities in its latest release. PostgreSQL is favored for new projects due to its permissive licensing, cross-platform operation, and extensive ecosystem of extensions, whereas SQL Server is preferred by organizations already using Microsoft products for its robust tooling and enterprise support. As of June 2026, SQL Server ranks third in the DB-Engines popularity ranking with a score of 698, while PostgreSQL ranks fourth with a score of 688. Developer adoption trends show that 49% of respondents in the Stack Overflow 2024 Developer Survey use PostgreSQL, compared to 27% for SQL Server. The latest stable version of PostgreSQL is 18.4, released on May 14, 2026, while SQL Server 2025 (version 17.x) became generally available on November 18, 2025. PostgreSQL is free under a permissive license, while SQL Server's Enterprise Edition can cost upwards of ,123 per two-core pack, with an eight-core minimum. PostgreSQL supports various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD, while SQL Server operates on Windows and Linux. PostgreSQL uses PL/pgSQL as its primary procedural language, allowing for multiple procedural languages, whereas SQL Server uses T-SQL. PostgreSQL's JSONB type offers rich indexing, while SQL Server added native JSON support in its 2025 release. Both databases are capable of handling high transaction volumes, but PostgreSQL excels in read-heavy scenarios due to its multi-version concurrency control, while SQL Server's columnstore indexes provide advantages for analytical workloads. PostgreSQL supports tables up to 32 TB, while SQL Server can handle a maximum database size of 524 PB. SQL Server's high availability technology includes Always On Availability Groups, while PostgreSQL offers built-in streaming and logical replication. The security features of both databases meet enterprise standards, with PostgreSQL providing a transparent patching process and SQL Server integrating with Microsoft tools. Real-world usage examples include Stack Overflow using SQL Server, while Instagram and Reddit utilize PostgreSQL. Developer sentiment increasingly favors PostgreSQL for new projects, emphasizing flexibility and open-source solutions. For new startups or greenfield projects, PostgreSQL is recommended due to its zero license cost and compatibility. Existing Microsoft enterprises are advised to stick with SQL Server for its integration benefits. Migration from SQL Server to PostgreSQL is becoming common, with a structured approach required for successful transitions.

Winsage

June 3, 2026

Microsoft wants AI to help developers port apps for RTX Spark and Snapdragon X

Microsoft will showcase a session at Build 2026 focused on porting x86 applications to Windows on Arm using AI agents. This initiative is in collaboration with NVIDIA, introducing the RTX Spark chip designed for Windows on Arm, which enhances performance for native Arm applications. Microsoft reports that 90% of user activity on Windows on Arm PCs involves natively compiled applications. The session will explore the use of agentic AI to assist developers in automating coding tasks and improving efficiency. A resource called "Works on WoA" helps users check application compatibility, while the Prism emulation layer allows access to a wide range of apps on Arm systems, though some legacy and specialized applications may face issues. The session, led by Qualcomm's Gaurav Goel, will provide tools for developers and is scheduled for June 3 at 6:20 PM ET.

AppWizard

June 2, 2026

Gravity Circuit 2 announced for PS5, Switch, and PC

Publisher Dear Villagers and developer Domesticated Ant Games are releasing Gravity Circuit 2 in 2027. It is a side-scrolling action platformer for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam and Epic Games Store). Players will control Kai and Cable to confront the Hunter Army. The game features two playable characters with distinct fighting styles, over a dozen stages with unique bosses, customizable loadouts, and hidden collectibles. The soundtrack is composed by Dominic Ninmark. Domesticated Ant Games is an independent studio based in Finland, founded in 2021.

Winsage

June 1, 2026

How to watch Microsoft Build 2026: Windows 11, NVIDIA RTX Spark, AI agents, and more

Computex is currently underway, and Microsoft Build is set to start soon, focusing on advancements in Windows and artificial intelligence. Microsoft and NVIDIA have launched the NVIDIA RTX Spark platform with the N1x chip, aimed at transforming PC application development and supporting the transition of Windows apps to ARM architecture. Microsoft is working to increase the number of native applications for Windows 11 and will share insights during Build. The keynote by CEO Satya Nadella will be streamed live without registration, but full event access requires prior registration, which is now closed. The session catalog includes hundreds of offerings, with many exclusive to in-person attendees. Comprehensive coverage of key announcements will be provided throughout the week, and discussions can continue on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral.

AppWizard

June 1, 2026

4 Office Gadgets And Accessories Your Android Phone Can Replace For Free

Android smartphones can replace several traditional office gadgets, including: - Scanner: A smartphone camera can digitize documents using free document scanner apps, eliminating the need for a physical scanner. QR scanner apps can also read QR codes and barcodes. - IR Remote: Some smartphones have built-in IR blasters, while others can use a small adapter and an app to function as universal remotes. - Computer Microphone: Smartphones can be used as microphones for computers through apps like Micstream or AudioRelay, enabling communication on platforms like Discord or Zoom. - Computer: Android phones can mimic desktop PCs using applications like Samsung DeX or Remote Desktop functionality. Virtual machines can emulate different operating systems, but may struggle with demanding applications. Installing Windows directly onto a phone is possible but risky.

Winsage

May 30, 2026

How to Free Up Disk Space on Windows 11

Your C: drive may be full, causing Windows to send reminders about low disk space or updates failing to install. Windows 11 includes built-in tools to help reclaim disk space. The guide outlines methods for recovering space, starting with the quickest techniques. 1. Cleanup Recommendations: Navigate to Start > Settings > System > Storage > Cleanup recommendations to review and remove temporary files, large or unused files, and apps. Deleting the previous Windows installation can recover several gigabytes but is irreversible. 2. Clear Temporary Files Manually: Go to Start > Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files to manually select and remove temporary files. 3. Empty the Recycle Bin: Right-click the Recycle Bin and select Empty Recycle Bin to reclaim space from deleted files. 4. Find and Move Large Personal Files: Use File Explorer to locate and move large files from Videos, Music, Pictures, or Downloads to an external drive. 5. Uninstall Unused Apps: Uninstall applications via Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps, the Start menu, or Control Panel. 6. Turn On Storage Sense: Activate Storage Sense in Start > Settings > System > Storage to automate cleanups. 7. Configure Storage Sense Schedule: Adjust the schedule for Storage Sense cleanups in Start > Settings > System > Storage > Storage Sense. 8. Use Classic Disk Cleanup: Access the classic Disk Cleanup tool by typing "disk cleanup" in the search box to remove system files and items overlooked by the Settings scan. 9. Free Up Local Space with OneDrive Files On-Demand: Enable Files On-Demand in OneDrive settings to keep files in the cloud and free up local space. 10. Redirect Where New Content Is Saved: Change the default save location for new files in Start > Settings > System > Storage > Advanced storage settings. 11. Use External Storage to Install a Stuck Update: Connect an external USB drive with at least 10 GB of free space to assist with installing updates. 12. Rule Out Malware: Run a Windows Security antivirus scan if disk space continues to disappear unexpectedly. Deleting files in File Explorer moves them to the Recycle Bin, and space is not reclaimed until it is emptied. Deleting the previous Windows installation is irreversible and can only be done within 10 days of an upgrade. The KB5074105 update changed the scan context for Temporary files, preventing certain admin-restricted items from being detected. Storage Sense operates only on the system drive and does not automatically delete files in Downloads or OneDrive unless configured.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

Automate repetitive tasks with Power Automate Desktop on Windows 11 Pro

Windows 11 Pro includes Power Automate, a built-in application for automating routine tasks without requiring coding experience. Users can create "flows," which are sequences of actions, by dragging and dropping from an extensive library or by recording actions. Power Automate Desktop integrates with various software, including legacy applications and Excel files. Users can set up flows quickly, such as automating the opening and signing into Slack. Flows can also be scheduled using Windows Task Scheduler. Power Automate Desktop enhances productivity by allowing users to automate simple and complex tasks, reducing human error and saving time.