guessing Archives

AppWizard

July 10, 2026

3 Big Changes Coming To Google Messages In 2026

Google Messages is set to introduce several improvements aimed at enhancing user experience, particularly in sharing and forwarding messages. The app will allow users to share content with both individual contacts and groups, recognizing pre-existing groups to simplify the process. Additionally, it will issue warnings when sending multimedia to mixed groups of RCS and MMS users. Another upcoming feature is the ability to forward multiple messages at once, including images, with a preview option before sending. These enhancements are currently in beta testing and may change before their official release.

Winsage

July 8, 2026

Windows 95 used a very basic “trick” to detect setup files

Microsoft developed Windows 95 with innovative detection mechanisms to prevent external installers from downgrading essential system components. The team used a heuristics-based approach to identify installer files by analyzing their names for keywords like "setup," "installer," or "inst," and also considered variations in other languages. If these keywords were not present, the system would check the file path for "setup." File checks were delayed until the next start to catch improperly modified files, as some setup programs would exit Windows to run batch files. Additionally, live file checks were conducted for multimedia driver installations via INF files, which was a special exception.

Tech Optimizer

June 27, 2026

How AI and Visual Tools Improve PostgreSQL Query Performance and Schema Management

PostgreSQL performance tuning and schema synchronization can be time-consuming and complex, often involving manual queries, EXPLAIN plans, and schema drift. The release of dbForge Studio for PostgreSQL 2026.1 introduces AI-assisted query optimization, a visual query builder, improved schema comparison and synchronization, and a visual table editor. The AI Assistant analyzes database indexes and suggests query optimizations, providing specific recommendations rather than generic advice. The new Query Builder allows users to visually assemble queries, simplifying the process of creating multi-table joins. The Schema Compare feature enables users to compare and synchronize schemas visually, reducing the risk of errors associated with manual synchronization. The visual Table Editor facilitates table design and maintenance, automatically identifying indexes and offering auto-completion for index names. The transition from traditional methods to these new capabilities enhances efficiency, allowing developers to save time on query writing, tuning, and schema changes. The integration of AI and visual tools streamlines workflows and reduces guesswork in performance tuning and schema management.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2026

I tested Norton’s Deepfake Protection — and it finally convinced me my next laptop needs an NPU

The landscape of online security has evolved significantly, with deepfake technology introducing new challenges. Users must be vigilant against both traditional malware and convincing fake images and videos. Antivirus software developers are enhancing their products by integrating cloud-based AI for better threat detection. For users with computers featuring neural processing units (NPUs), local solutions are available, such as Norton’s Deepfake Protection, which analyzes synthetic voices and images to flag potential threats. This feature operates in the background, providing peace of mind during online interactions. Norton 360 includes options for Deepfake Protection, Safe Web, and Safe SMS, but requires sufficient system resources to function effectively. Running this protection on older laptops may hinder performance, making NPUs a worthwhile investment for enhanced security against deepfakes and other online threats.

Winsage

June 15, 2026

Linux 7.2 To Better Communicate File-System Casefolding For Helping Windows NFS & More

The Linux 7.2 kernel has introduced enhancements for reporting case-folding behavior in local file systems, allowing file servers to accurately convey their case sensitivity capabilities. Linus Torvalds merged Virtual File System (VFS) related pull requests that enable local file systems to report case-folding behavior, benefiting services like NFSD and KSMBD, particularly for Microsoft Windows NFS clients. Filesystems can now report case-insensitive and case-nonpreserving behavior through new filekattr flags in their fileattrget implementations. Supported filesystems include FAT, exFAT, NTFS3, HFS, HFS+, XFS, CIFS, NFS, VBoxSF, and ISOFS, with others defaulting to POSIX behavior. NFSd uses this information to report case folding via NFSv3 PATHCONF and implement NFSv4 attributes for case insensitivity and case preservation. The enhancements aim to improve interoperability, allowing Windows NFS clients to function correctly by reporting case-insensitivity, which streamlines operations and avoids unnecessary requests. The Linux NFS client has previously supported case-insensitive shares, requiring adjustments to caching behavior. Accurate case folding reporting is crucial for servers operating in multi-protocol environments to maintain interoperability.

AppWizard

June 6, 2026

As someone with over 1,000 hours in Guild Wars 2, I hope ArenaNet has a better plan this time around

A sequel to Guild Wars 2, titled Guild Wars 3, was announced at the Summer Game Fest. The game has evolved through various updates and expansions, with ArenaNet alternating between seasonal updates and major expansions. Recently, they adopted an annual schedule for smaller expansions. The endgame structure has shifted from traditional raids to smaller-scale "strikes." Unlike World of Warcraft, which has a predictable update schedule, Guild Wars 2 has often left players uncertain about future content. The announcement of Guild Wars 3 aims to attract new players and rekindle interest among veterans.

AppWizard

June 2, 2026

Mario Kart World added to Nintendo Music as app adds CarPlay, Android Auto and web player

The soundtrack of Mario Kart World has been integrated into the Nintendo Music app, with most tracks available and Free Roam tracks to be introduced gradually. The update includes new features such as seamless integration with CarPlay and Android Auto, on-screen controls, and the ability to use Siri or Google Assistant for track selection. A web player has also been launched for streaming from browsers. The update was released on a Tuesday, maintaining the tradition despite speculation about a shift to Fridays.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Embark finally pulls back the curtain on Arc Raiders’ matchmaking systems

Arc Raiders is clarifying its matchmaking system, emphasizing that it is not limited to a binary division between PvP and PvE, but operates on a spectrum that embraces unpredictability. Players are not confined to specific lobbies, allowing for a more authentic gaming experience. The matchmaking system adapts to individual playstyles, aiming to pair players with compatible approaches to reduce friction and enhance enjoyment. Isolated acts of aggression do not significantly impact a player's reputation, and loadouts do not influence matchmaking. Upcoming changes will allow players to defend themselves without being penalized for engaging in combat, promoting a richer social interaction experience.

Winsage

May 20, 2026

Windows multi-monitor HDR bug: Why do your displays share the wrong calibration?

Windows has a bug that affects HDR calibration for multi-monitor setups, causing incorrect peak brightness data to be applied across different displays. This results in distorted colors and highlights, particularly impacting gaming experiences where games draw settings from Windows. The issue is suspected to be triggered by the device entering standby mode, waking from sleep, or physically swapping display cables. Microsoft has not officially recognized or fixed this problem, leaving users to manually check their display profiles or restart their systems as a workaround.

Tech Optimizer

April 21, 2026

Even trusted apps can infect your PC with malware now

Recent supply-chain attacks are increasingly targeting well-known software such as CCleaner, Steam games, and Notepad++, allowing hackers to distribute malware through legitimate updates. The introduction of artificial intelligence has accelerated the frequency and sophistication of these attacks, with hackers compromising developers or exploiting third-party tools to inject malicious code. Notepad++ was specifically affected by a supply-chain attack where a compromised third-party tool led to the distribution of tainted software. Attackers use various strategies, including hacking developers' credentials, purchasing access, or compromising tools relied upon by developers. Antivirus software is crucial for protecting users from malware, even from trusted sources, as modern solutions have minimal impact on system performance.