habits Archives

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

It’s in the SongDNA: an ‘immersive’ Spotify test that lets you discover everyone involved

Spotify has launched a beta feature called SongDNA for its global Premium users, allowing them to explore the songwriters, collaborators, and contributors behind their favorite tracks. Accessible through the Now Playing > SongDNA card, it provides information on collaborators, music samples, interpolations, covers, and the songwriters involved in the creation of the track. SongDNA complements the existing "About this song" feature, which focuses on the artist's creative process. Additionally, Spotify introduced "Taste Profile," which tracks users' musical preferences and curates recommendations based on their listening habits.

Tech Optimizer

March 20, 2026

Best Free Antivirus in 2026: What You Get (and What You Don’t)

Free antivirus solutions have improved significantly, providing users with protection that was once exclusive to paid software. Major players in the market include Avast, Bitdefender, AVG, and Malwarebytes, each offering distinct features and limitations. While effective against common threats like viruses and malware, these free tools often lack advanced privacy tools and comprehensive security coverage. Avast One Basic offers real-time scanning and basic tools like a VPN and system cleanup, while AVG AntiVirus Free provides a streamlined user experience with a focus on simplicity. Avira Free Security includes additional features such as a basic VPN and privacy management tools, making it a more comprehensive free option. McAfee Free serves as an introduction to its broader ecosystem but lacks depth in protection. Free antivirus tools remain popular due to improved everyday protection, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, especially for mobile users. They utilize cloud intelligence for better performance and can handle basic security needs. However, they may not suffice for users with high-risk profiles or those needing advanced privacy features. Key criteria for free antivirus solutions include core protection through real-time monitoring, seamless performance, user-friendly interfaces, and additional valuable tools. Limitations include basic protection against emerging threats, intrusive upgrade prompts, slower updates to threat databases, limited support options, and potential privacy trade-offs. Alternatives to free antivirus software include Bitdefender, Surfshark One, Norton 360, Avast Premium Security, and Avira Prime, which offer more robust protection and features.

AppWizard

March 18, 2026

Pragmata’s devs urge players to test out the demo beforehand to figure out whether controller or mouse and keyboard is best for them: ‘There are some people who find keyboard and mouse too tricky’

Joining PC Gamer led to a significant change in gaming habits, including the destruction of a PS5 and Switch, while controllers remain useful for certain games. Controllers are essential for titles like FromSoftware games, the Resident Evil series, and others, enhancing the gameplay experience. Director Cho Yonghee emphasized the careful design of control schemes for different platforms, noting that hacking mechanics in Pragmata are more fluid with a controller compared to a mouse. The free Pragmata sketchbook demo serves as a tutorial for essential skills and allows players to experiment with both control schemes. Yonghee acknowledged that preferences vary between players, and both control methods have been optimized for a great experience. Mastering controls is crucial for effectively navigating and combating AI-controlled adversaries in Pragmata.

Winsage

March 17, 2026

Microsoft Edge’s latest update is all about what you lose — but one removal is actually a good thing

The latest update of Microsoft Edge, version 146.0.3856.59, officially retires the Collections feature, preventing users from adding new items but allowing them to export saved content to Favorites. Edge version 150 will be the last compatible release for macOS 12 (Monterey), requiring users to upgrade to macOS 13 (Ventura) or later. The update also transitions Workspaces to an improved V2 architecture, migrating data from OneDrive/SharePoint to Edge Sync, while removing collaboration and sharing functionalities. Users will no longer be able to create a custom primary password starting with Edge 146, and this feature will be phased out by June 4, 2026, transitioning to device authentication. Additionally, passwords will not be included in the items cleared when deleting browsing data, addressing user concerns about unintentional deletions. Password management remains accessible through edge://settings/autofill/passwords.

Tech Optimizer

March 16, 2026

Avast One Basic Tops Free Malware Scanners in 2026 Amid Rising Cyber Threats

Avast One Basic has been recognized as the leading free malware scanner for PC protection in 2026, noted for its virus and spyware detection capabilities, Wi-Fi vulnerability scans, and seamless performance during resource-intensive tasks. It features automatic software updates and email spam protection. The tool conducts thorough system scans, manages app patches, and has a user-friendly interface. It outperforms competitors like Microsoft Defender in Wi-Fi analysis and has superior detection rates for emerging threats. Avast One Basic plays a crucial role in driving adoption for Gen Digital products, with high download numbers translating into premium subscriptions. It addresses rising cyber threats, including AI-powered attacks, and is compliant with stringent data standards in Europe. Future enhancements are planned to target zero-day attacks and integrate additional services.

AppWizard

March 13, 2026

In two years, PC games will surpass console games in revenue

The PC gaming segment is projected to grow at an average annual revenue rate of 6.6% from 2025 to 2028, while the console segment is expected to grow at 4.4% annually. By 2028, combined revenue from console and PC gaming is anticipated to exceed .7 billion, with PC games accounting for over half of this total for the first time in 13 years, up from an estimated .3 billion at the end of 2025. Microtransactions will contribute 48% of PC revenue in 2025, while game sales will make up half of console revenue. In 2025, 20 games generated two-thirds of console revenue across major markets. The PC gaming audience is expected to reach 966 million by the end of 2026 and surpass one billion by 2028, with significant growth from China and other Asian countries. The console gaming audience is projected to grow from 662 million in 2026 to 688 million by 2028. In 2025, gamers spent 1% less time on console and PC games compared to 2024, dedicating 48% of their gaming time to PCs, 34% to PlayStation, and 18% to Xbox. Over half (54%) of playtime in 2025 was on games older than six years, with 33% on titles aged one to five years, and only 13% on new releases. There is a trend among PC users towards less mainstream titles, with 42% of playtime in 2025 spent on games outside the top 20. Popular gaming IPs in 2025 included Roblox, Fortnite, and Call of Duty.

AppWizard

March 11, 2026

Meta Adds Scam Detection to Facebook, WhatsApp, and Messenger

Meta is introducing new scam detection tools for its platforms—Facebook, WhatsApp, and Messenger—to enhance security. Facebook users will receive alerts for suspicious friend requests, while WhatsApp will issue device-linking warnings to prevent unauthorized access. Advanced algorithms will analyze conversation patterns for signs of fraud, prompting users to report suspicious messages for AI analysis. Users can choose to block or report accounts based on these alerts, ensuring privacy through opt-in sharing of messages. The initiative responds to rising fraud statistics, with the FTC noting significant consumer losses and increased phishing attempts. Key metrics for success will include the interception of suspicious interactions and user engagement with reporting features. Users are advised to maintain skepticism toward unsolicited communications and enable two-step verification for added security.

AppWizard

March 11, 2026

Meta Taps AI to Combat Fraud Across WhatsApp and Facebook

Meta has launched a suite of AI-driven tools to combat scams on WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger, announced on March 11. These tools include a device linking warning on WhatsApp for suspicious linking requests, alerts on Facebook for dubious friend requests, and expanded scam detection capabilities on Messenger to additional countries. A report indicates that email and social media account for 19% of initial scam interactions, while users on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp faced around 15 billion high-risk scam ads daily, with total exposure, including organic fraud, reaching 22 billion instances.

Tech Optimizer

March 11, 2026

Best Antivirus for Windows 11: Fast, Lightweight & Secure

Windows 11 users face various cyber threats, making antivirus software essential. Many users mistakenly believe they are adequately protected by Windows Defender, which, while improved, may not be sufficient against modern threats. Effective antivirus solutions provide real-time protection, monitor behavior, and block phishing attempts, adapting to evolving threats. Key features to consider include low system impact, unobtrusiveness, and comprehensive protection across multiple devices. Popular antivirus options for 2026 include Bitdefender, Surfshark One, Norton, and Avast. Free antivirus tools offer basic protection but lack advanced defenses against phishing and ransomware. Paid solutions enhance security with features like real-time monitoring and additional privacy tools. Proper installation and configuration are crucial for optimal performance and protection. Users should choose antivirus software based on their individual habits and needs, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into their daily routines.

Tech Optimizer

March 11, 2026

XShield Review 2026: Don’t Buy Antivirus, VPN & Ad Blocker Before Reading This!

XShield is a multi-feature digital security suite operated by Xshield Technologies AG and Xshield USA Inc., governed by Swiss law. It combines six protection categories: antivirus, secure VPN, cyber privacy protection, anti-ransomware, dark web monitoring, and mobile security, supporting unlimited devices across iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. As of March 2026, XShield offers two pricing plans: a monthly plan at .99 and an annual plan at .99, both including full access to all features and 24/7 customer support. It provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for first-time purchases. XShield lacks independent third-party lab certifications. Contact information includes a phone number (+1 800 358 9107), email (care@xshield.com), and 24/7 live chat support.