deactivation Archives

AppWizard

September 7, 2026

How to find and hide an app on Android Auto

The sudden disappearance of apps from the Android Auto launcher can be resolved by launching the app on your phone and reconnecting to Android Auto. This issue is often due to features in the Android operating system, such as Samsung's automatic disabling of unused apps to conserve battery life. To prevent apps from disappearing, users can disable the "Auto disable unused apps" setting in their phone's battery settings. Users can also customize the apps displayed in Android Auto by navigating to Settings > Connected devices > Android Auto > Customize launcher. Not all applications are compatible with Android Auto; only those designed for the platform will appear. While there is no dedicated "hide app" function, users can manage app visibility through customization options.

AppWizard

September 3, 2026

How to check if Motion Assist has rolled out to your Android 17 phone

Google has introduced a new feature called Motion Assist for devices running on Android 17, which is designed to enhance user experience while in motion. Users can access Motion Assist through the Settings app or by searching for it. The feature includes a preference menu to automatically start when in a moving vehicle and can be activated via a Quick Settings Tile. It offers customization options for color, shape, opacity, and randomization of dynamic shapes that adapt to the device's motion, potentially reducing motion sickness. Motion Assist is currently in early rollout, associated with version 26.33.32 of Google Play services, and is only available on select devices.

Winsage

September 3, 2026

Windows 11: Memory Integrity enabled automatically from October

Microsoft plans to automatically activate Memory Integrity on a broader range of eligible systems starting October 2026, rolling it out through standard Windows quality updates. Prior to activation, Windows will assess hardware, drivers, and performance to ensure compatibility. Memory Integrity, part of Virtualization-based Security (VBS), uses the Windows hypervisor to create a secure environment for integrity checks on kernel code. Compatibility with drivers is crucial, as many older applications may not meet the stricter standards required for HVCI. Potential compatibility issues may arise with anti-cheat solutions, third-party input methods, and banking protection programs, which could lead to software malfunctions or boot failures. A readiness check will evaluate hardware compatibility, with eligible systems including Intel processors from the 8th generation, AMD processors from Zen 2, and Qualcomm Snapdragon 8180 or newer, along with specific RAM and storage requirements. The rollout will be gradual, and users who previously disabled HVCI will not face unexpected reactivation. Microsoft recommends updating affected applications or drivers in case of compatibility issues.

Winsage

August 27, 2026

Microsoft is blocking the problem to fix Windows 11 KB5121003 restarts, crashes

Microsoft addressed printing issues and gaming-related complications linked to recent .NET Patch Tuesday updates. The problems were associated with RGB applications and the inpoutx64 system driver, which caused compatibility issues when certain games were launched. Microsoft has implemented a block to prevent the inpoutx64 driver from loading on affected devices, specifically targeting systems with the driver enabled and ARC Raiders installed. Users will receive a notification after the block is implemented, and the game should launch without further issues. The block is also being extended to systems running MARVEL Tōkon: Fighting Souls, while the issue with THE FINALS has been resolved. The resolution is being distributed automatically, and users need to restart their devices after the fix is applied. For enterprise-managed devices, IT administrators must manually apply the fix. Microsoft provided a temporary workaround by suggesting users disable the inpoutx64 driver through the Windows Registry. Users can change the Start value in the Registry Editor to 4 to disable the driver and may need to restart their devices for changes to take effect. Users are advised to back up the Registry before making modifications, and they can restore the driver by reverting the Start value back to its original setting.

AppWizard

July 7, 2026

Why There’s A Briefcase Symbol On Your Android Phone’s Screen (And How To Turn It Off)

Android has introduced a feature called Work Profile that creates a dedicated workspace on devices, separating professional applications from personal ones. This allows users to maintain distinct versions of applications, such as having separate Gmail accounts for work and personal use. The data within the Work Profile is encrypted and accessible only to an organization's IT administrators, ensuring privacy for personal applications and data. Users can identify work apps by a briefcase icon in the status bar, which disappears when the app is closed. To temporarily pause the Work Profile, users can access the Quick Settings panel or navigate to the app drawer and select the Work tab. When paused, work apps will vanish from the app drawer, and notifications will cease. Users can reactivate the Work Profile through the same methods. Additionally, Android's Digital Wellbeing settings allow users to schedule the activation and deactivation of the Work Profile. To permanently disable the Work Profile, users must delete it from the device, which removes all associated work apps and data. This can only be done if the device was originally owned by the user or if ownership has been transferred. The steps include accessing the Settings app, selecting Passwords and accounts, navigating to the Work tab, and tapping on Remove work profile. A factory reset can also delete the Work Profile but will erase personal apps and data as well.

AppWizard

July 6, 2026

Epic settles with Fortnite leaker who shared South Park, Minecraft and Overwatch collabs

Epic Games has settled its legal dispute with former contractor Hayden Cohen, who was accused of leaking sensitive information about upcoming Fortnite skins and events. The settlement prohibits Cohen from possessing, accessing, using, or disclosing any of Epic's confidential or trade secret information. The case highlighted Epic's commitment to protecting its intellectual property and maintaining confidentiality in partnerships. The settlement does not involve financial compensation. Cohen had previously shared leaked information on social media before his account was deactivated.

Winsage

June 25, 2026

The Useful Feature That Isn’t Enabled By Default On Your Windows 11 Laptop

The Night Light feature reduces blue light impact from screens, creating a warmer visual experience. Devices like Macs, iPhones, and iPads have a similar feature called Night Shift. Utilizing Night Light can enhance comfort during late-night work and alleviate eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule, lowering screen brightness, and enabling dark mode can further help with eye care. To enable Night Light on Windows, users can press Win + A to access Quick Settings or go through the Settings app by pressing Win + I, selecting System, then Display, and toggling the Night Light option. Third-party applications like f.lux can provide additional customization. Once activated, users can adjust the warmth using a "Strength" slider in the Night Light settings. Night Light also offers a scheduling feature to automate activation from sunset to sunrise or at specific times set by the user.

Winsage

June 23, 2026

Tested: Microsoft just debloated Windows 11 Search without Bing, and it’s crazy fast

Windows 11 has introduced a significant enhancement to its Search functionality, allowing users to completely eliminate web results through a toggle in Insider Experimental build 26300.8697. This feature prioritizes local results and improves search speed. The new toggles for Web Searches and Microsoft Store apps can be found in the Privacy & security settings under "Show suggested search results." Users can still see past web searches if the Search history toggle is active. The web toggle's deactivation leads to local files being displayed first, while the Microsoft Store results can be toggled independently. Disabling both toggles results in a "No results found" message if there are no local matches. The feature is currently experimental and requires enabling via ViveTool. Additional improvements include typo forgiveness for app queries and enhanced search responsiveness. Microsoft is also shifting its strategy to provide users with more control over their Windows experience.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2026

Subscription twist: Norton 360 Deluxe adds more than just antivirus

Norton 360 Deluxe is a mid-tier security subscription from Gen Digital that offers antivirus protection, a VPN, a password manager, dark web monitoring, and parental controls for up to five devices. It includes real-time threat protection, a firewall, ransomware shielding, and cloud backup of up to 50 GB for Windows users. The parental controls, known as Norton Family, allow monitoring of children's online activities. The Secure VPN encrypts internet traffic on public Wi-Fi and masks IP addresses. The package also features PC SafeCam for webcam security and a smart firewall. Norton 360 Deluxe is marketed with a promotional first-year rate, with higher renewal prices, and is available through digital subscriptions, app stores, and major retailers. The product is designed for households and individuals seeking comprehensive security solutions.

Winsage

June 7, 2026

В Windows On 11th, an official feature for disabling internet search will appear.

Microsoft is introducing new settings for Windows 11 that allow users to completely deactivate the Bing search engine within the system menu. This update addresses the issue of local files being mixed with internet search results, which has caused confusion and slowed device performance. Previously, users had to modify the system registry or use third-party tools to disable this integration. The new feature includes an official toggle in the privacy settings and will also allow users to eliminate app recommendations from Microsoft Store search. This change aims to ensure that system searches are strictly local, improving speed and reducing RAM consumption. The updates are driven by new legislative requirements in Europe for greater user choice and are expected to be available in upcoming benchmark builds.