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E-Reader companies are slow to adopt Android 16
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

E-Reader companies are slow to adopt Android 16

Google's Android operating system is evolving, with Android 16 being adopted by a few e-readers and smartphones, including the Viwoods AiPaper, BOOX Palma 3, Note Air6 C, and Boox Note Mini C. Android 16 offers improved app compatibility, integrated artificial intelligence, and enhanced hardware performance, allowing users to install modern third-party applications like Kindle, Kobo, and Google Play Books. The Viwoods and BOOX models feature native AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and DeepSeek, providing shortcuts for text summaries, translations, and document analysis. By 2027, more devices with Android 16 and access to the Google Play Store are expected, with companies like Viwoods, Bigme, and BOOX likely to expand their offerings. The Barnes and Noble NOOK operates on a customized version of Android, and Pocketbook has introduced a few models supporting Google Play, though this is seen as an exploratory move.
Android 17 QPR2 Beta 7.1 rolling out for Pixel
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 7.1 rolling out for Pixel

Google has begun the rollout of Android 17 QPR2 Beta 7.1, which includes a performance-enhancing fix but no significant user-facing changes. The build number is CP41.260831.019. The update is compatible with various Pixel devices, including Pixel 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold, 10a, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold. Users can report issues via the Android Beta Feedback app or engage with the community on Reddit. Beta 7 will be available as an OTA update for those on Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6.
NordVPN's CTO on redefining antivirus for the AI era, and his dream security tool
Tech Optimizer
October 16, 2026

NordVPN’s CTO on redefining antivirus for the AI era, and his dream security tool

NordVPN has introduced a new offering called "next-gen antivirus" (NGAV) to address evolving cybersecurity threats, particularly those from artificial intelligence. NGAV aims to redefine online security by protecting against sophisticated threats like socially engineered scams and phishing attacks, rather than just traditional viruses. It operates in the background, alerting users to potential scams, blocking ads and trackers, and removing malware without requiring extensive technical knowledge. The company recognizes that personal AI agents present a new cybersecurity challenge and is developing features to protect these agents. NordVPN has incorporated bespoke AI solutions into its NGAV, using efficient models that can identify phishing attempts while running locally on user devices. The company has also shifted to open-weight models to reduce costs while maintaining capabilities, although sensitive areas like payment processing remain unaffected by AI. Despite privacy concerns regarding AI, NordVPN has not faced significant pushback from customers about its AI features and emphasizes its commitment to not using customer data for model training. Briedis warns that over-regulation could hinder innovation in cybersecurity. Looking ahead, he envisions a comprehensive application that monitors users' digital environments and manages their data presence online, while NordVPN plans to focus on creating localized solutions rather than hardware development.
Windows 11 Is Finally Becoming the OS It Should Have Been From the Start
Winsage
October 16, 2026

Windows 11 Is Finally Becoming the OS It Should Have Been From the Start

Microsoft has announced updates to Windows 11, currently available in the Insider beta and set for full release later this year. Key enhancements include the ability to reposition the taskbar, a revamped Search function allowing direct access to controls, and a redesigned Photos app featuring semantic search and advanced editing options. The updates aim to improve user experience and address criticisms of Windows 11, particularly regarding performance on devices with limited RAM. Additionally, Microsoft will offer classic and contemporary games with new Windows 11 PC purchases starting in November.
Google Play Store starts selling… Samsung Galaxy phones
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Google Play Store starts selling… Samsung Galaxy phones

Users can access Google’s latest products, including the Pixel 11, Pixel Watch 5, and Fitbit Air, through the Play Store by selecting ‘Shop devices.’ Tech influencer Marques Brownlee reported that Samsung Galaxy devices, including the Galaxy S26, are now available for purchase on the Play Store, although users in the UK, India, and South Africa have not found Galaxy devices listed. The US and UK official webstores do not currently feature Samsung or other brand mobile devices. This development suggests a strategic partnership between Google and Samsung. The Google Fi app in the US offers access to various smartphones. There is speculation about the potential addition of more Samsung devices, like the Galaxy S27, to the Play Store and whether Google will expand its official web store offerings.
Faster protection, fewer interruptions: How Microsoft Edge is rethinking updates
Winsage
October 16, 2026

Faster protection, fewer interruptions: How Microsoft Edge is rethinking updates

Microsoft Edge is developing a seamless-updates prototype that allows security updates to be applied without interrupting users' work. Currently, the browser has a Restart to update on idle feature that applies updates when devices are not in use. The goal is to eliminate the need for users to click an update button, enabling background updates that do not disrupt ongoing tasks. Microsoft Edge can also issue patches independently of the Chromium release schedule for urgent security needs. Additionally, Security Update Alerts help organizations manage updates by notifying administrators about critical updates and vulnerabilities. These alerts are available for managed Windows devices through the Edge management service without additional licensing.
6 wild ways to make Android widgets more useful
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

6 wild ways to make Android widgets more useful

The Popup Widget allows users to access any widget at any time and summon two widgets simultaneously with a single tap. Edge Gestures provide quick access to favorite widgets with a swipe. Material Capsule features on-demand camera cutout widgets for dynamic customization. The volume key can trigger the appearance of a widget. Overlays offer a floating icon for ongoing access to essential tools. Smart Launcher introduces stacked widgets for efficient organization and space-saving design, with an easy setup interface for customization.
Googlebook review: Android on a laptop is still Android
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Googlebook review: Android on a laptop is still Android

Setting up a Googlebook for Android users involves scanning a QR code to transfer accounts, data, and applications, requiring Android 17 for optimal integration. Google’s “Better Together” services allow access to files, synchronization of notifications, and app mirroring from an Android 17 phone. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network for connectivity, and users may face limitations such as performance issues, incompatibility with system-level security apps, and the restriction of one app at a time. File access from the phone to the Googlebook is slow and one-way, with the Google Files app on the phone unable to access the Googlebook. The Files app on the Googlebook lacks features like tab support and network share compatibility, making the experience feel limited compared to traditional file management systems.
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