device Archives

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Your Googlebook has a hidden app that turns its Glowbar into a disco

Google has introduced a hidden feature called the Glowbar Disco app in its new line of Googlebook laptops. This app transforms the laptop's lid light strip into a music-synced light show. The Glowbar is a design element across various manufacturers, indicating battery status and Gemini activity. Alexander Kuscher, Google’s Senior Director of Product for Laptops and Tablets, mentioned this feature during an interview, inviting users to explore it. Users had previously experienced the disco mode during demonstrations, but the method to access it was not disclosed until Kuscher's comments. The Glowbar is also functional, displaying essential information and responding to device activity, with plans for developers to create applications utilizing its capabilities.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

If you can’t tell what’s real or AI-generated anymore, this Android app is here to help

Generative AI is becoming a crucial part of various services and applications, leading to a series that will highlight notable AI innovations. A challenge for users is distinguishing between authentic and AI-generated content, which has become increasingly difficult. The C2PA Verify app helps users identify image origins by reading C2PA credentials, although these credentials can be erased, limiting the app's effectiveness. C2PA Verify is open-source, free, and developed by Dark Rock Studios. Other noteworthy AI applications include: - Retirement Planner: A web app powered by Claude Opus 4.5 that assists users in financial planning for retirement by calculating future portfolio value, drawdown rates, and tax implications, tailored for US and Canadian citizens. - Memoria: An Android gallery app that uses offline AI for natural language search, ensuring user privacy by keeping data on the device. It utilizes Apple’s MobileCLIP-S0 model for processing queries and is open-source and free to use.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

ATV Launcher’s latest update brings big home screen upgrades for your Android TV

ATV Launcher has released version 0.1.41 for Android TV, introducing significant updates that enhance aesthetics and functionality. Key features include ten fixed row layouts (Spotlight, Bookends, Centre Stage, Marquee, Hero Trio), the ability to place widgets within app rows (Weather, Digital Clock, System Info, Favorite App, Watch Next, Recommended, and standard Android widgets), and the launch of the "ATV Launcher Digital Clock Widgets" companion app with 15 clock styles. Visual enhancements allow folders to display contents in various preview styles, and the Configure Tile dialog now includes a live preview interface. The Watch Next and Recommended cards feature edge-to-edge artwork and progress bars. A modular status bar lets users toggle and reorder icons, select placements, and switch TV inputs. The update is available on the Google Play Store.

Winsage

September 25, 2026

Windows 11 KB5124010 update released with 46 changes and fixes

Microsoft has released the KB5124010 September 2026 non-security preview update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, introducing 46 enhancements, including improvements to Bluetooth functionality and the ability to remap the Copilot key. This update is optional and focuses on quality improvements without security fixes. Key features include support for Emoji 17.0, a new accessibility setting for maximizing app windows, and a recovery remote management plug-in. Bluetooth issues have been addressed, including crashes related to audio streaming and microphone compatibility. Users can remap the Copilot key to function as the Right Ctrl or Context Menu key. The update elevates Windows 11 25H2 and 24H2 devices to builds 26200.9550 and 26100.9550, respectively. Other highlights include the ability to use slideshow wallpapers across multiple desktops, enhanced gesture controls for precision touchpads, and a Camera roll backup feature for OneDrive. Microsoft has fixed a known issue with the File History backup feature and removed the PC-to-PC Migration tool, recommending Windows Backup instead. KB5124010 is the last preview update for Windows 11 24H2, which will reach end of support in October 2026.

Tech Optimizer

September 25, 2026

We Tested 10 Best Antivirus Software for 2026

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, with Verizon’s 2026 Data Breach Investigations Report indicating that 48% of breaches involve ransomware and 31% arise from software vulnerabilities. A review of leading antivirus programs assessed their effectiveness against various threats. Top antivirus software includes: - Bitdefender: Best overall, effective against various threats, perfect score from AV-TEST. - Norton 360: Best all-in-one suite, includes VPN and parental controls, perfect score from AV-TEST. - McAfee+ Premium: Best for families, unlimited device coverage, full marks from AV-TEST. - Malwarebytes: Best for simple protection, user-friendly interface, rated 5.5/6 by AV-TEST. - ESET NOD32: Best for advanced users, lightweight and fast, includes Gamer Mode. - Avast: Best free option, offers various scanning options, straightforward upgrade path. - Microsoft Defender: Built-in for Windows, essential protection, perfect score from AV-TEST. - Intego ONE: Best for Mac users, includes firewall and VPN. - Surfshark Antivirus: Combines antivirus and VPN services, real-time protection. - TotalAV: Best for beginners, combines antivirus with web security tools. The evaluation process included lab data from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, hands-on experience, and criteria such as malware protection, false positives, system performance impact, phishing protection, ease of use, platform coverage, additional security features, and pricing. Key metrics from antivirus lab tests include protection scores, false positives, and performance impact. The choice between antivirus software and internet security suites depends on individual needs. Antivirus software remains necessary, especially for Windows PCs, to complement other security measures.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Motorola just gave privacy fans a big reason to consider the Signature 27

Motorola's Signature 27 will be one of the first phones powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 chipset. GrapheneOS has confirmed initial support for the Signature 27, expanding beyond Google Pixel phones. GrapheneOS is based on AOSP and focuses on privacy, with optional Google Play services running sandboxed. The Signature 27 features a revamped camera layout and includes premium enhancements such as Audio by B&O. Motorola has not disclosed the release date or pricing for the Signature 27.

Winsage

September 25, 2026

Windows 11 24H2 Home and Pro editions reach end of updates on October 13, 2026 — here’s what you must do

Microsoft announced that the Home and Pro editions of Windows 11 version 24H2 will stop receiving updates after October 13, 2026. The Enterprise and Education editions of Windows 11 24H2 will continue to be supported until October 12, 2027. Windows 11 SE will also reach its end of support in October 2026, with no feature updates after 24H2. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 version 25H2 to extend their support window until October 2027. The upgrade requires Windows 11 version 24H2 and a specific cumulative update. If users do not upgrade, Microsoft will automatically push the 25H2 update to unmanaged Home and Pro devices.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Forget new models — Gemini’s working on what really matters: dark mode options

The Gemini app for Android is introducing new features aimed at enhancing user experience. Upcoming updates include innovative dark mode controls that allow users to override their device's system settings, enabling them to choose their preferred mode specifically for Gemini. This feature will be exclusive to the Gemini app and will not affect other Google applications. Additionally, a notification history feature will be added, allowing users to archive and review past notifications via a bell icon in the app. Users will also be able to long-press notifications to open or remove them. These developments are part of version 17.61.19.sa.arm64 of the Google app for Android, although not all features may make it to the final version.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

86Box Setup Guide 2026: Emulate a Windows 98 PC in 13 Steps

86Box is an emulator that meticulously reconstructs vintage PCs, allowing users to boot operating systems like MS-DOS, Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows XP. The latest version, 6.0, was released on May 31, 2026, featuring a native Windows ARM64 build and discontinuing support for macOS 10.13 High Sierra. It has approximately 2,400 monthly searches in the U.S., indicating a demand for setup guides among enthusiasts. Unlike DOSBox, which creates a generic DOS environment, 86Box emulates specific hardware components for authentic execution of various operating systems. Originally a fork of PCem, 86Box has expanded its supported motherboards and developed a community of contributors. Version 6.0 has established it as the preferred choice for retro-PC builders in 2026. Before installation, users need a minimum of a 64-bit Intel Core 2, AMD Athlon 64, or ARMv8 CPU, 4 GB of RAM, and a compatible host operating system. The installation process involves downloading the appropriate build, sourcing a legal ROM set, and configuring the virtual machine using the 86Box Manager. Users can select specific graphics cards and sound hardware to replicate the original systems accurately. The setup requires installation media for the guest operating system, which must be sourced legally. Common pitfalls during setup include ensuring the BIOS ROM is available, matching CPU speed to software era, and installing the correct drivers. A properly configured virtual machine should display a BIOS POST screen and boot the selected operating system. Troubleshooting common issues often involves checking for missing ROMs, uninstalled drivers, or performance settings. 86Box is open-source and legal to use, but users must ensure they have legitimate licenses for any software used within the emulator.

BetaBeacon

September 24, 2026

Google has allowed gaming on Android Auto – but there is an important restriction

Google has officially opened the games category for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS to the public. Games can only be played when the car is parked, with sound automatically muted when the car starts moving. Games are launched directly on the car screen and can be controlled via touch display or gamepads. Devices running Android 15 or later are required to play games on Android Auto, and games must be adapted to the car format and pass Google's review. Developers are encouraged to adapt games for different car displays.