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Tech Optimizer

March 28, 2026

Trend Micro Maximum Security Review 2026: Is It The Best Protection?

Trend Micro offers five distinct subscription versions for online security, including a 12-month subscription to its Maximum Security Suite Pro Plus, which provides multi-device antivirus, anti-scam software, a VPN, and identity theft protection. The pricing starts at AUD for a basic subscription for one device, with additional costs for more devices and features. The tested plan costs 99.95 AUD per year for six devices. Key features include AI-scam detection, a Gamer Mode that pauses notifications during gameplay, and a minimalist user interface. Installation requires separate logins for each program, and the suite supports MacOS, Android, and iOS, though with limited features on Mac. The built-in VPN is developed in-house, and phishing protection is provided via a browser extension. Folder Shield protects against ransomware by securing specific folders. Independent lab tests show mixed results for Trend Micro's performance, particularly in real-time web-threat protection and ransomware defense, with some weaknesses in offline malware detection.

BetaBeacon

March 28, 2026

The Best 13 Android Games You Must Play in 2026

- Monster Hunter Outlanders completed its first round of closed beta testing in 2025 and is one of the most anticipated new mobile games of 2026. - Genshin Impact remains at the top of the free-to-play mobile scene with continuous updates to the story and events. - Honkai: Star Rail is a turn-based RPG with high-end action game polish and style, now available on Android phones and PC. - Destiny: Rising adapts the excellent shooting skills and MMO-style growth system of the console version to the mobile platform. - Goose Goose Duck, a mobile game released in 2026, attracted 5 million players in its first month and offers unique gameplay with a large number of characters. - Among Us is a global sensation in social deduction gaming where players must uncover the impostor among them. - Spaceteam is a local multiplayer game designed for 2 to 8 players to play together by shouting out technical terms to keep the spaceship running. - Chrono Trigger and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night are classic RPGs now available on Android devices. - Gwent: The Witcher Card Game and Hearthstone are deeply strategic card games with rich deck-building options. - Marvel Snap is a fast-paced competition game with Marvel heroes and a three-minute gameplay duration. - Nizhan Future is a sci-fi shooting game developed specifically for mobile platforms with a season-based design and data interoperability between PC and mobile platforms.

Tech Optimizer

March 27, 2026

Bogus Avast website fakes virus scan, installs Venom Stealer instead

A deceptive website impersonating Avast antivirus tricks users into downloading Venom Stealer malware, which steals passwords, session cookies, and cryptocurrency wallet information. The site conducts a fake virus scan, falsely reporting threats to encourage users to download a malicious file named Avastsystemcleaner.exe. This file mimics legitimate software and operates stealthily, targeting web browsers to harvest credentials and session cookies. It also captures screenshots and sends stolen data to the command-and-control domain app-metrics-cdn[.]com via unencrypted HTTP. The malware employs evasion techniques to avoid detection and is part of a long-standing cybercrime tactic that exploits user trust in security software. Indicators of compromise include the file hash SHA-256: ecbeaa13921dbad8028d29534c3878503f45a82a09cf27857fa4335bd1c9286d, the domain app-metrics-cdn[.]com, and the network indicator 104.21.14.89.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

6 ways I’m already using Android 17’s app bubbles to multitask better

Google has released Android 17 Beta 3, featuring app bubbles, which enhance multitasking by allowing users to keep applications floating on their screens for quick access. Users can create app bubbles by long-pressing any app icon and selecting the "bubble" option, which opens the app in a small floating window that can be minimized into a bubble. Multiple bubbles can be stacked, and tapping a stack expands it for easy management. Users can remove bubbles by dragging them to an "X" button, and on foldable devices, bubbles can be arranged in a taskbar-style layout. The app bubbles feature allows for various multitasking scenarios, such as responding to messages without switching apps, keeping notes open while shopping, watching videos while taking notes, checking maps during chats, planning trips without app switching, and copying information easily between applications.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

Android 17 Beta 3 lets you control which apps are forced into dark theme

In Android 17 Beta 3, Google introduces a feature allowing users to control the "Expanded" dark theme settings for individual applications. This feature enables apps that do not support dark mode to adopt a darker aesthetic while allowing users to disable forced dark mode for specific apps that may have readability issues. Users can access this feature through Settings > Display & touch > Dark theme > Expanded.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Project Helix will make things easier for game devs, says indie program lead, because “one Xbox build” is all you need

Chris Charla, with 16 years at Xbox and 13 years in the ID@Xbox program, discussed Project Helix, the next-generation Xbox system. It will allow users to play both PC and Xbox games, contrasting with competitors like Sony. At the Game Developers Conference, he highlighted the goal of simplifying game launches, enabling developers to create a single build for Xbox, PC, and cloud platforms. Project Helix will support easy PC and cloud gaming. Charla mentioned that developers currently working on Xbox and PC will benefit from Project Helix, with support for Xbox API, backend integration, and marketing. The system is expected to release in 2027 or 2028, and it may resemble a "gaming PC" running Windows 11.

BetaBeacon

March 25, 2026

How to Play PS5 Games on your Android…

- To play PS5 games on your mobile device using PS Remote Play, you will need a PS5 with updated system software, an Android phone with Android 10 or higher, a PSN account, stable internet connection, and a DualSense controller for a better gaming experience. - To download PS Remote Play on your phone, you can get it from the Google Play Store or APKPure. - The setup process involves enabling Remote Play on the PS5, completing settings on the mobile device, connecting the controller to the phone, and starting to play remotely. - Troubleshooting tips include ensuring both devices are signed into the same PSN account, restarting devices, using Ethernet connection for the PS5, connecting the phone to 5GHz Wi-Fi, and adjusting picture quality settings in the app.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Why So Many Apps Let You Try Things for Free

Most mobile applications now invite users to explore features freely before requesting payment, using strategies like free trials and unlocked levels. The initial moments in an app are crucial for user retention, prompting developers to design engaging experiences that capture attention quickly. Mobile gaming pioneered this approach by rewarding players with bonuses to familiarize them with game mechanics without immediate financial pressure. This user-centric model has extended to online entertainment platforms, which offer promotional credits or trial bonuses. The Android ecosystem supports this exploratory model, allowing developers to adapt onboarding strategies based on user engagement. First impressions are critical in the app economy, with seamless and inviting initial interactions increasing user retention.

Winsage

March 24, 2026

Linux or Windows? How Having Many Operating System Choices Makes Switching Easier on Dedicated Hosting

The choice between Linux and Windows operating systems can significantly impact business operations, influenced by factors such as cost, performance, management, security, and best use cases. Linux is free to use and has lower long-term costs due to its open-source nature, while Windows incurs licensing fees. Linux efficiently utilizes system resources, whereas Windows may consume more resources but can enhance functionality for businesses reliant on Microsoft tools. Linux offers extensive control through command-line interfaces, while Windows provides a user-friendly graphical interface. Security in Linux is supported by a robust permissions system and rapid updates, while Windows offers built-in security measures and centralized updates. Linux is preferred for web hosting and development, particularly with PHP and MySQL, while Windows is favored in enterprise settings using .NET and MSSQL. A multi-cloud strategy is increasingly adopted, with 89% of enterprises planning to implement it by 2025. In 2025, Linux holds 44.25% of the server OS market share, while Windows has a compound annual growth rate of 9.62%. When choosing an operating system, organizations should consider current requirements, future needs, and the ease of switching without significant downtime or complications.

Winsage

March 24, 2026

A closer look at the Windows 11 features businesses rely on most

Windows 11 is a foundational platform for businesses, offering integrated productivity tools and compatibility with Microsoft 365, which enhances cybersecurity and IT management. Key security features include the requirement for TPM 2.0, Windows Hello for Business for secure sign-ins, and BitLocker device encryption enabled by default. The integration of Microsoft 365 Copilot allows AI-driven assistance for document creation and data analysis, streamlining workflows across applications like Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. IT management is simplified with tools like Windows Autopilot for zero-touch provisioning and Microsoft Intune for remote device management. Windows 11 also improves performance with features like adaptive energy saver mode and Fast Startup, while plans to enhance user experience include reintroducing the ability to move and resize the Taskbar.