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Microsoft design boss on why Windows 11 can’t please all 1 billion users: “Everyone has different preferences”
Winsage
October 11, 2026

Microsoft design boss on why Windows 11 can’t please all 1 billion users: “Everyone has different preferences”

Microsoft is planning a significant transformation of Windows 11, focusing on modernizing its user interface and legacy features while addressing diverse user preferences. The new Windows Search capabilities allow users to perform actions like toggling settings directly from search results, which has led to discussions about the relevance of the Start menu. Diego Baca, Vice President of Design at Windows, emphasized the challenge of designing for over a billion users while aiming to improve performance and customization. The Recommended/Recent section of the Start menu has received mixed feedback, with many users expressing discontent despite Microsoft viewing it as a valuable feature intended to enhance productivity. Scenarios for its use include displaying missed meeting recordings and suggesting frequently used apps. In March 2026, Microsoft acknowledged past oversights with Windows and committed to revitalizing the operating system, aiming to modernize interfaces and integrate more WinUI-based features. The company plans to deliver 100% native applications on the platform and is focused on providing greater customization options for users.
Android Malware Caught by Teaching AI to Read Apps as Pictures
AppWizard
October 11, 2026

Android Malware Caught by Teaching AI to Read Apps as Pictures

A research team from Turkey, led by Erdal Başaran and Ömer Okucu of Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen University, along with Yusuf Alaca from Hitit University, has developed an innovative detection framework for Android malware that utilizes a visual approach. This framework transforms key features of Android applications into images, allowing a Vision Transformer to differentiate between benign software and malware. The researchers created two types of images from static and dynamic analysis features: a conventional 2D grayscale image and a QR code image. Separate Vision Transformer models were trained on each image type, and spatial pooling features were extracted from deeper layers to create a comprehensive representation of application behavior. To refine the fused feature vector, Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) was employed, enhancing classification clarity and reducing computational load. The final classification utilized a majority-voting ensemble strategy, achieving a detection accuracy of 98.72 percent, surpassing standalone models. The study demonstrates that the multimodal system outperforms individual grayscale or QR code pathways. The dataset used is publicly available, promoting reproducibility. The framework's reliance on static and dynamic analysis features allows it to adapt to new threats, and the novel QR code representation offers distinctive visual signatures of malicious behavior. However, challenges remain regarding feature extraction quality and computational demands.
A practical guide to cost optimization with Lakebase Postgres
Tech Optimizer
October 11, 2026

A practical guide to cost optimization with Lakebase Postgres

Lakebase is a fully managed Postgres database designed for modern application development, featuring an architecture that separates storage and compute with a serverless compute layer. This design allows for cost efficiencies through various mechanisms: 1. **Branching**: Developers can create isolated environments for development, testing, or experimentation without duplicating storage costs, as branches share the same underlying storage. 2. **Autoscaling**: Lakebase adjusts compute resources based on activity levels, allowing users to pay only for the compute they use. It can scale down during low activity and can be suspended entirely after inactivity, reducing costs to zero. 3. **Read Replicas and High Availability**: The separation of storage and compute allows for adding read replicas and high availability without incurring additional storage costs, as these instances utilize the same storage layer. 4. **Synced Tables**: Integration with the Databricks Intelligence Platform enables efficient data syncing, allowing users to sync only the necessary working set of data, which helps avoid unnecessary storage and sync costs. 5. **Sync Modes**: There are three sync modes (Snapshot, Triggered, Continuous) for transferring data from the Lakehouse to Lakebase, each with different cost implications based on data freshness requirements. 6. **Right-sizing Compute**: Users can set the initial compute range during project provisioning to avoid over-provisioning and unnecessary costs. 7. **Monitoring and Metrics**: The Lakebase Metrics dashboard provides insights into working set size and cache utilization, helping users optimize their compute sizing and performance. 8. **Point-in-Time Restore (PITR) and Snapshots**: PITR maintains history for recovery within a configurable window, while snapshots offer discrete recovery points. Both are priced lower than standard storage, making them cost-effective options for data recovery. Lakebase costs are categorized into compute, storage, and serverless pipeline compute for syncing data. Compute is measured by CU usage, while storage includes branch storage, PITR history, and snapshot storage, all tracked separately. Users can access detailed usage and cost information through system billing tables.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

Nivalis Nights might not have any combat, “but that doesn’t mean it’s a cosy game,” so says its lead writer

The game Nivalis Nights is designed to be intentionally overwhelming at the start, reflecting the stress of a cyberpunk world without traditional elements like player death or boss fights. Players navigate a chaotic environment where every app demands attention, mirroring modern life's pace. The game allows for various paths to success, including unconventional achievements, and emphasizes the complexity of relationships through its dating mechanics, aiming for authenticity and unpredictability. The game's narrative explores themes of technological advancement and societal pressures, inviting players to actively engage rather than passively receive rewards.
Asus Googlebook 14 Review: For Android, By Android
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

Asus Googlebook 14 Review: For Android, By Android

Googlebook 14 features Googlebook OS, which is based on Android and incorporates elements from ChromeOS, offering a familiar user experience for Android users. The interface resembles that of Android devices, with home screens, quick settings, and app access similar to smartphones. Integration with Android phones allows users to access apps, notifications, and files directly from the laptop. The "Continue On" feature enables users to pin phone apps to the Googlebook taskbar for easy transitions between devices. However, Googlebook OS lacks support for traditional desktop software, limiting the functionality of Android apps available through Google Play. Google is addressing compatibility issues by labeling apps for desktop use in the Play Store. New features like Magic Pointer, Proactive Suggestions, and Rambler are introduced, but the OS still requires significant improvements in app compatibility and desktop interface optimization. Google has faced challenges in developer support for optimizing applications for Googlebook OS.
Minecraft Dungeons 2 Review
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

Minecraft Dungeons 2 Review

Minecraft Dungeons 2 is developed by Mojang and Double Eleven, published by Xbox Game Studios and Mojang. It is available on Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PS5, with a release date of September 29, 2026, priced at £24.99. The game serves as an accessible introduction to the action RPG genre, targeting younger audiences, particularly Minecraft fans. It features a semi-open-world structure, allowing exploration of various areas, but the main quest line and side quests can be completed in approximately seven to ten hours. Combat mechanics are straightforward, with rapid loot acquisition and a system that can frustrate players due to hidden stats. The narrative involves ill-intentioned Illagers and lacks variety in quests. The game includes a co-op mode for up to four players and cross-platform online play, but players cannot transfer offline characters online. The Deluxe Edition includes additional content such as a Soul Cape, hero skins, and access to DLC packs.
Be warned: Nivalis Nights may not be the cozy game you expect: 'If you want a cozy existence in this city, you're going to have to earn it'
AppWizard
October 10, 2026

Be warned: Nivalis Nights may not be the cozy game you expect: ‘If you want a cozy existence in this city, you’re going to have to earn it’

Nivalis Nights is a user-generated tag on Steam that is described as a cyberpunk shop/life simulation game, with elements of management and relaxation. However, the game presents an overwhelming volume of quests and notifications, creating a chaotic experience that contrasts with traditional notions of coziness. Lead writer Thomas Welsh acknowledges that the game reflects life in a capitalist society, where players face burdensome debt and bureaucratic challenges. Despite its harsh world, the game includes decorating and management elements, visually stunning graphics, character narratives, and a hint of romance. The initial overwhelm from the quest log and constant notifications contributes to the subjective interpretation of coziness in gaming.
Best antivirus for Windows PC in 2026: 7 apps to keep your PC safe
Tech Optimizer
October 10, 2026

Best antivirus for Windows PC in 2026: 7 apps to keep your PC safe

Robust antivirus software is essential due to the rise of sophisticated online threats, including AI-driven attacks. Various antivirus solutions for Windows include: - Norton: Comprehensive protection with a user-friendly interface. - Avast: Easy to use, ideal for straightforward experiences. - AVG: Budget-friendly without compromising essential features. - Avira Prime: Simple and effective for beginners. - McAfee: Focuses on privacy and safeguarding personal information. - Panda: Offers a wide range of features for comprehensive security. - Windows Security: A free option providing basic protection. Key features to consider in antivirus software include strong protection against malware, user-friendly interfaces, performance impact on systems, and additional tools like parental controls and VPNs. Norton 360 Deluxe includes parental controls and cloud storage, while Avast One is noted for its simplicity. AVG Internet Security is cost-effective, and Avira Prime offers beginner-friendly features. McAfee Total Protection emphasizes privacy but may be pricier.
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