features Archives

AppWizard

September 17, 2026

Google Maps on Android Auto Is Finally Getting the Most Basic Customization Feature

Google has enhanced Google Maps on Android Auto by introducing a customization feature that allows users to personalize their driving avatars. This update enables users to change their vehicle icons directly from their infotainment screens, a capability that was previously unavailable. Additionally, Google Maps on Android Auto has introduced a speedometer feature, allowing users to view their current speed and speed limits even when navigation is not active. The rollout of these features is ongoing.

AppWizard

September 17, 2026

Google Pixel: Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 Released

On September 15, 2026, Google released the beta OS update "Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5" for Google Pixel devices in the Android Beta Program. This update includes support for new Pixel devices: "Pixel 11," "Pixel 11 Pro," "Pixel 11 Pro XL," and "Pixel 11 Pro Fold," while excluding "Pixel 6" and "Pixel 6 Pro." The update is distributed via Over-the-Air (OTA) to 23 models, including "Pixel 6a," "Pixel 7," and "Pixel 8 Pro." Key features include "Call Forwarding Hardening," which restricts access to call-forwarding USSD codes to enhance security against scams. The update also includes eight bug fixes, addressing issues with Bluetooth device type display, unexpected reboots, volume slider UI, text rendering, Private Space unlocking, HDR mode, Camera app crashes, and Bluetooth audio distortion. The build number changes to "CP41.260828.004.A8" or "CP41.260828.005.A6," with the Android security patch level updated to "August 5, 2026," and "Google Play services" upgraded to version 26.28.33 or later.

BetaBeacon

September 17, 2026

Best Free Bingo Apps for iPhone and Android in 2026

Bingo Blitz offers social bingo with variety and daily content, Bingo Story is casual and story-driven, Bingo Journey is classic and ticket-based, Live Play Bingo features live-hosted bingo shows, and MyVegas Bingo has a Vegas theme and loyalty rewards.

BetaBeacon

September 17, 2026

Rastar Games to Conduct CBT for ‘Three Kingdoms: Conquest of Nine Kingdoms’ on Android Devices Starting Sept. 22

Rastar Games is launching a pre-registration campaign for their upcoming strategy game Three Kingdoms: Conquest of Nine Kingdoms. The game will have a closed beta test for Android users on September 22, featuring dynamic combat and strategic elements. The game's monetization strategy focuses on player skill rather than pay-to-win mechanics. Players who pre-register on iOS can unlock special rewards and have the chance to win prizes through physical giveaway events.

Winsage

September 17, 2026

Microsoft explained why Windows 11 dropped these Windows 10 features

Windows 11 was released in 2021 and received mixed reactions, with users noting the removal of several familiar features from Windows 10. The taskbar was locked in place, preventing repositioning, and the ability to drag files onto taskbar applications was initially absent but restored within a year. The Start menu lost flexible resizing options, and Microsoft faced challenges in transferring established features due to the new framework. By 2026, Microsoft announced changes allowing users to relocate the taskbar, responding to user demand. The Start menu remained less flexible than its predecessor, leading to user frustration. Microsoft acknowledged the need for a movable taskbar, which was implemented in a preview by May 2026, coinciding with the September 2026 Patch Tuesday update. The integration of AI into development processes has accelerated feature implementation, but also introduced new stability issues.

Winsage

September 17, 2026

I ran a single command and found more garbage on my Windows 11 drive than Storage Sense cleaned all month

On Windows 11, the Storage Sense feature can reclaim space by cleaning user-level files, such as temporary data, items in the Recycle Bin, files in the Downloads folder, and cached OneDrive copies. It recently reclaimed approximately 1.67GB of space in one morning and a total of 10.2GB over the past month with default settings. Storage Sense only activates when the storage drive is nearing capacity unless the user adjusts the schedule. It can be configured to run daily, weekly, or monthly, and users can set parameters for emptying the Recycle Bin and deleting files in the Downloads folder. However, Storage Sense does not clean the entire drive or access the Windows component store, which holds outdated system files. The component store was found to contain approximately 11.84GB of data that Storage Sense cannot clean up. The total size of the component store is 20.14GB, with a significant portion comprising backups and disabled features. Users may need additional cleaning tools to manage the data that Storage Sense cannot address.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

Here’s everything new in Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 [Gallery]

Android 17 QPR2 Beta 5 has begun its rollout, with a stable release expected in December. The update includes new features and enhancements, with a detailed guide available for installation on compatible devices such as Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 series, and Pixel Tablet. Changes in Quick Settings include the introduction of a new Audio Streams Tile and the removal of layout customization. The Voice broadcast Tile has been moved under Connectivity. Fixes in this update include: - Resolved an issue with Bluetooth device icon updates. - Addressed a system stability problem causing unexpected reboots during UI scrolling in media-heavy apps. - Fixed a bug preventing the system volume slider from appearing when using hardware volume buttons while casting media. - Corrected a text-rendering issue causing unexpected background highlights in search fields and a navigation routing problem with Private Space. - Enhanced HDR mode remained enabled despite user settings. - Resolved touchscreen unresponsiveness when launching Google Wallet via the power button shortcut. - Fixed camera crashes during panorama processing. - Addressed Bluetooth audio issues with noise and distortion after calls.

Tech Optimizer

September 16, 2026

AI helps scammers build convincing antivirus renewal pages

Antivirus renewal scams often begin with messages claiming automatic subscription renewals, leading victims to counterfeit pages designed to collect personal information. These scams impersonate well-known brands and do not indicate that the sender has accessed the recipient's device. Responding to such messages can provide scammers with valuable data, including names and phone numbers, which can be sold or used for further scams. A specific scam site impersonating Avast targeted users in Belgium, falsely claiming a subscription renewal for €129.99. The site appeared polished and requested basic contact information without asking for sensitive data. It contained notes suggesting AI involvement in its creation, indicating it was a half-finished project. To identify antivirus renewal scams, individuals should verify any claimed charges directly with their bank, check subscriptions through official channels, be cautious of cancellation forms requesting phone numbers, treat follow-up calls as potential threats, and avoid installing remote access software. If engagement with a scam occurs, disconnect from the internet, remove any installed software, and change passwords. Tools like Malwarebytes Browser Guard can help block malicious sites, and Scam Guard can analyze suspicious communications.

Tech Optimizer

September 16, 2026

Best Antivirus for Windows 2026: 5 to Install, 1 to Avoid

Windows is the only desktop platform where antivirus software is essential. Microsoft has patched many vulnerabilities, but the OS still allows installations from unverified sources and connects to potentially untrustworthy networks. As of 2026, the top antivirus solutions for Windows include: - Norton 360: Best overall, with a full scan time of 13 minutes and 22 seconds, robust firewall, and up to 250 GB cloud backup. - Bitdefender: Best for older PCs, maintaining peak CPU usage at 11% and memory at 183 MB during scans. - Avast One: Best free option for Windows 11, achieving a perfect score in AV-TEST. - NordVPN Threat Protection Pro: Best for VPN users, blocking 90% of malware. - McAfee+: Best for households with multiple devices, offering unlimited coverage but is the slowest scanner. - Microsoft Defender: Best free option included with Windows, awarded Top Product by AV-TEST. Norton 360 has a 99.8% detection rate and offers a 60-day refund window. Bitdefender also has a 99.8% detection rate with low resource usage. Avast's free version is effective, while NordVPN provides integrated malware protection for existing VPN users. McAfee is suitable for large households but has slower performance. Microsoft Defender is adequate for single users practicing safe browsing but lacks multi-device support. Kaspersky is unavailable in the U.S. due to supply chain concerns.

AppWizard

September 16, 2026

These New ‘Minecraft’ Tubbz Are Anything but Square

Tubbz is expanding its Minecraft lineup with three new collectible rubber ducks: Alex, an Enderman, and a Zombified Piglin. The Enderman features a slack-jawed expression and purple eyes, the Zombified Piglin has a half-decayed look and a golden sword, and Alex is equipped with a diamond pickaxe. Each comes in a themed bathtub display with a sticker and an exclusive print. They are available for purchase at select retailers and on tubbzus.com, with a suggested retail price of .99 - .99.