easier management Archives

AppWizard

June 10, 2025

Six new Android features just dropped, and you can try them out today

Android 16 introduces several new features, including enhancements to RCS group chats, a redesigned Google Photos editor, and improved functionality in the Google Home app. RCS group chat updates allow users to customize group chats with unique icons and names, check RCS status of friends, and mute notifications for specific groups. The Google Photos app features a new image editor with AI-driven suggestions, a Reimagine feature for creative expression, and an Auto frame function for better image cropping. The Google Home app now includes device-specific shortcuts for easier management of smart devices and an upgraded Safety Check feature for scheduling check-ins. WearOS smartwatches can now tap city transit cards even when the Google Wallet app is closed, provided the feature is activated.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

Microsoft wants Windows 11 to handle all updates centrally

Microsoft has initiated a limited public preview of Windows Backup for Organizations to simplify the backup and restoration of device settings for enterprise customers, facilitating the transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The company is developing a unified orchestration platform to manage all operating system and software updates, addressing issues related to the current fragmented update process. This platform will be built on the Windows Update stack and provide an API for developers to integrate their applications. Benefits include eco-conscious scheduling, a centralized notification system, holistic update history, streamlined troubleshooting, easier management for IT administrators, and support for common app types. The orchestrator is currently in early development and available only as a private preview, with a focus on enterprises, although a consumer-oriented solution may be possible in the future.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

An awesome new Android automation addition

The BuzzKill rule is a versatile feature designed to enhance operational efficiency in organizations. The latest version allows users to customize it according to their needs and includes a new "in pocket" option for added functionality. Automatic pocket detection is a core component, facilitating seamless interaction with the tool. Active rules are prominently displayed on the main BuzzKill screen, with a toggle feature confirming their status for easier management.

AppWizard

May 21, 2025

Major Google Play Store update grabs your attention with ‘browse pages’ and more

Google I/O 2025 announced new features for the Play Store aimed at enhancing user engagement. The "topic browse pages" will allow users to explore apps in a more interactive way, debuting in May in the U.S. with a focus on Media & Entertainment content. The "Where to Watch" feature will expand to users in Korea, Indonesia, the U.K., and Mexico, while developers will gain access to a hero content carousel for showcasing YouTube videos. "Audio samples" will be introduced on the Apps Home, starting with Health & Wellness content. Developers will receive new overview pages for Grow and Monetize statistics and can halt app rollouts if necessary. The Asset Library will be updated for easier management of app assets. Google is also streamlining the subscription process with "multi-product checkout for subscriptions," allowing users to bundle subscriptions with related add-ons. Enhanced controls for developers regarding subscription management and improved payment setup during device initialization are also part of the updates.

Winsage

April 7, 2025

Five reasons why every business needs Windows 11

Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025, leaving organizations without essential security updates and exposing them to cyber risks. Upgrading to Windows 11 on HP PCs with Intel® Core processors enhances security, improves system stability, reduces IT support strain, boosts employee productivity, and avoids the costs associated with delayed migration. BPC Commercial offers assistance for a smooth transition to Windows 11.

Winsage

March 11, 2025

Microsoft is adding image editing and compression to its Windows Share feature – and I couldn’t be happier

Microsoft has released a beta update for Windows 11 version 23H2 that enhances image editing and sharing capabilities. This update allows users to edit and compress images directly within the Windows Share interface, enabling cropping, adjusting, and filtering without the Snipping Tool. The feature is currently available in the beta version, but its future in subsequent updates is uncertain. This development aids users in managing file sizes when sharing larger images and may reduce reliance on third-party compression tools. Users have expressed satisfaction with the stability of version 23H2 compared to version 24H2.

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.