easier management Archives

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Google Contacts app looks a little different now, here’s what changed

Google has released version 4.49 of its Contacts app for Android, introducing several updates. A new card in the Organize tab displays the user's email address, total number of contacts, and the time since the last synchronization. An info icon explains that contacts sync automatically with the device and are accessible across Google services. The app now features a "Google Contacts sync settings" option for easier management of sync settings. Additionally, the account menu has been modified to require users to tap a chevron to view all signed-in accounts, creating a cleaner interface. Recent features also allow users to set emoji and monograms as contact pictures.

Winsage

February 7, 2025

Microsoft improves Windows Terminal: new features, bug fixes and better stability

Microsoft has released an update to Windows Terminal, version 1.22.10352.0, for all users outside the preview channel. The update includes support for Sixels, enhanced emoji functionality, command snippets, a refined Cascadia Code font addressing Arabic glyph issues, and a new colour palette named Ottosson currently in testing. The settings interface has been revamped, introducing a compatibility page and terminal emulation page within Profiles, allowing easier management of application compatibility settings. Users can now dictate path translations when dragging or copying files into the terminal with four available options. Changes include reselecting previously used commands saving them in history, updated translation modes for POSIX paths, and a new compatibility setting to block applications from writing to the clipboard. Bug fixes include proper functioning of the Ctrl+Insert hotkey and the Close Window action now requiring confirmation. Future updates promise enhancements in version 1.23.10353.0, including a complete rewrite of support for multiple windows, improved tray icon consistency, and a streamlined customization experience for the New Tab menu. New simple settings have been added, including rainbow suggestions and an icon picker feature. Users can now copy screen content with escape sequences and applications can utilize specific escape sequences for C1 controls. The full changelog and download options are available on GitHub and the Microsoft Store.

Tech Optimizer

November 19, 2024

Scaling Your Startup’s Data Infrastructure with PostgreSQL

Robust data infrastructure is essential for startup development as data requirements grow. PostgreSQL is a leading open-source relational database known for its scalability and comprehensive features. A Timescale survey indicates that 51.2% of users increased their PostgreSQL usage in the past year. PostgreSQL employs a multi-version concurrency control (MVCC) system and write-ahead logging (WAL) for data integrity and recovery. Vertical scaling enhances hardware capabilities, while horizontal scaling distributes loads across multiple servers through replication, partitioning, and sharding. High availability is achieved via replication and failover systems, with load balancing optimizing resource usage. Performance optimization techniques include regular indexing, query optimization, and routine maintenance. Monitoring tools like pgAdmin and Prometheus are crucial for maintaining database health and performance.

AppWizard

November 9, 2024

Many third-party Android apps could get RAW photo support

Samsung SmartThings recently introduced new features such as Home Insights, Daily Routines, Quick Remote, and Automatic Hub Backup. A report suggests that SmartThings may soon support Wi-Fi routers alongside the upcoming release of Matter 1.4. This update includes the "Enhanced Multi-Admin" feature for easier management of Matter-enabled devices across different ecosystems, allowing integration with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and SmartThings. Matter 1.4 will also enable Wi-Fi routers to function as Thread Border Routers, allowing control of Wi-Fi routers, modems, and set-top boxes through the SmartThings app. Additionally, it introduces support for energy management devices, helping users optimize energy consumption based on local electricity prices. Support for security cameras is expected in the future update, Matter 1.5. SmartThings is anticipated to integrate support for Matter 1.4 by 2025.

AppWizard

October 15, 2024

Android 15 has a cool trick to save my ‘storage full’ 128GB Pixel

Google's Pixel series smartphones, including the latest Pixel 9, have a base storage of 128GB. Android 15 introduces an "app archiving" feature that allows users to temporarily remove apps without losing data, enabling easier management of storage. Users can manually archive apps by tapping and holding the app icon, selecting the info icon, and choosing Archive. Additionally, users can set apps to automatically archive when storage is low by enabling "Manage app if unused." Archived apps can be restored by tapping their icon with a cloud download overlay. For devices not running Android 15, users can still archive apps through the Google Play Store by enabling the automatic archiving feature in settings.

Winsage

July 18, 2024

Microsoft is changing how it delivers Windows updates: 4 things you need to know

- Windows updates are currently cumulative, leading to larger update packages each month. - Checkpoint updates will be smaller and easier to manage, reducing the total download burden by 80% or more. - The new update packages are currently only available to beta testers. - The change to checkpoint updates probably won't be noticeable for most users until mid- to late 2025. - Windows 10 users will not be affected by the switch to checkpoint updates.