investment Archives

Winsage

June 18, 2026

This $13 Windows 11 Pro offer is too good to ignore

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is currently available for .97, reduced from its regular price of 5.00, offering a savings of 5.03. Key features include BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V virtualization, Windows Sandbox, TPM 2.0 support, and advanced authentication protections. Productivity enhancements consist of Snap Layouts, improved desktop organization, voice typing enhancements, better search functionality, and seamless multi-monitor support. The integration of Microsoft’s AI assistant, Copilot, assists with content summarization, answering queries, generating writing prompts, and coding suggestions.

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.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2026

Companies turn to EnterpriseDB for AI data control

Organizations are increasingly adopting EnterpriseDB's EDB Postgres AI platform due to a rising demand for enhanced control over data in AI systems, particularly in sectors like banking, insurance, retail, and trading. Research from MIT Technology Review Insights indicates that prioritizing AI and data sovereignty significantly predicts success in AI initiatives, with such organizations achieving five times the return on investment. In South Korea, the Industrial Bank of Korea migrated 15 core systems to EDB Postgres AI, citing significant reductions in licensing costs compared to Oracle and improved scalability for future AI services. Shinhan EZ Insurance transitioned its core system to the public cloud using EDB, overcoming challenges related to legacy database licensing and emphasizing the importance of operational stability. Beyond finance, companies like MNTN, Euronext FX, and Kyobo Book Centre have adopted the platform to reduce vendor reliance, manage data workloads, and enhance compliance control. MNTN uses EDB for large-scale analytical processing, Euronext FX has implemented it across four data centers, and Kyobo Book Centre migrated from a costly data warehouse to the EDB solution. A common trend among these deployments is the use of a single Postgres-based platform for transactional processing, analytics, and AI tasks, reflecting an industry initiative to simplify operations and reduce costs. Hensley noted the critical convergence of AI systems with operational data, as AI agents operate against live data in high-volume workflows, highlighting the drawbacks of using separate platforms for transactions and analytics. EnterpriseDB has also received industry accolades for its data management and contributions to the open-source community, reinforcing its market position.

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2026

Why Oracle’s OCI Database with PostgreSQL matters for serious workloads

Oracle has launched the OCI Database with PostgreSQL, a managed PostgreSQL service designed for seamless deployment within the Oracle Cloud. This service includes lifecycle management, automated backups, and monitoring, allowing users to customize their database configurations easily. A key feature is the cross-region warm standby, which enhances disaster recovery by enabling users to create replica databases in secondary regions that replicate data from the primary database. The service enforces a strict 5-minute recovery point objective (RPO) and simplifies the setup process for operations teams. The OCI Database with PostgreSQL is positioned against offerings from AWS and Azure, targeting organizations that prefer a managed PostgreSQL experience. However, compliance challenges, such as the lack of FedRAMP certification, may hinder adoption for certain sectors. The product is available on OCI with usage-based pricing and is aimed at cloud teams needing managed operations and disaster recovery for PostgreSQL databases.

AppWizard

June 17, 2026

Guild Wars 3 hopes to solve the problem that made me quit Guild Wars 2 after thousands of hours with the series

Guild Wars 3 has been announced, with beta testing scheduled for 2027. ArenaNet has outlined core philosophies for the game: it will have no subscriptions, no pay-to-win mechanics, respect players' time, and aim to evolve the MMO genre. The game seeks to create an accessible experience for both new and veteran players, acknowledging the busy lives of its audience.

AppWizard

June 17, 2026

Android 17 brings enhanced parental controls with screen time and app management tools

Google has launched an enhancement to its Android Parental Controls with the introduction of Android 17, featuring tools for parents to manage children's screen time, app access, content restrictions, and digital wellbeing. Initially available on Pixel devices, it will roll out to all Android smartphones and tablets receiving the Android 17 update. Key features include the ability to set daily screen time limits, create downtime schedules, apply content filters, limit app usage, and block apps. The integration with Google Family Link allows for additional supervision tools such as School Time Mode, purchase approvals, location tracking, and device activity monitoring. Google has also increased its U.S. Digital Wellbeing Fund to support research and programs aimed at promoting healthy technology usage among children and teenagers. The new parental controls will be accessible through Android Settings on devices updated to Android 17.

AppWizard

June 17, 2026

“Valve has a customer for life”: Dad says Valve sent him a free Steam Deck case after his newborn threw up on his original

A Reddit user recounted an incident where his newborn child damaged an official Steam Deck case. He contacted Valve support to purchase a replacement, expressing his preference for the official case. Valve unexpectedly sent him a free replacement without any prompting. This gesture strengthened his loyalty to the brand, highlighting the importance of exceptional customer service. The incident occurred amid a recent price increase for the Steam Deck, making the free replacement a strategic public relations move to maintain customer goodwill.

Tech Optimizer

June 17, 2026

Best antivirus software 2026: free and paid picks

Viruses and malware have become more sophisticated, with phishing emails, AI-generated scams, and deepfake videos posing significant threats. In 2025, Americans lost .9 billion to online scams, affecting even tech-savvy individuals. Built-in malware protections on devices have improved, but the need for additional antivirus software depends on individual usage and risk tolerance. Microsoft Defender, integrated into Windows 11, scored 18/18 on AV-Test and provides real-time protection against various threats. XProtect on Mac updates malware signatures but may miss newer threats, while iPhone users generally do not need antivirus software due to iOS's sandboxing. Android users face higher malware risks and should consider dedicated antivirus solutions. Paid antivirus solutions often include features like VPN services, password managers, identity theft monitoring, and multi-platform coverage, justifying their cost. Many antivirus providers offer steep discounts for the first year, followed by significant price increases upon renewal, so it's advisable to disable auto-renewal and seek new customer rates. Bitdefender Total Security is recommended for its malware detection and light system impact, while McAfee+ Premium offers unlimited device coverage for families. Norton 360 Deluxe provides a comprehensive feature bundle, and Microsoft Defender is the only recommended free antivirus, achieving a perfect score on AV-Test without intrusive ads or upsells.

AppWizard

June 16, 2026

New expanded Android parental controls to support families around the world

Android is expanding its Parental Controls feature to all devices upgrading to Android 17, allowing parents to manage their children's screen time effectively. The controls include screen time management, downtime scheduling, app store filters, and app usage control, all accessible through Android Settings and secured by a PIN. The setup of Google Family Link is also facilitated through the Family Link app, which provides additional features like School Time and location alerts. Additionally, there is an increase in the U.S. digital wellbeing fund to over a million dollars to support initiatives promoting healthy technology interactions and resources to combat social isolation.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2026

Subscription twist: Norton 360 Deluxe adds more than just antivirus

Norton 360 Deluxe is a mid-tier security subscription from Gen Digital that offers antivirus protection, a VPN, a password manager, dark web monitoring, and parental controls for up to five devices. It includes real-time threat protection, a firewall, ransomware shielding, and cloud backup of up to 50 GB for Windows users. The parental controls, known as Norton Family, allow monitoring of children's online activities. The Secure VPN encrypts internet traffic on public Wi-Fi and masks IP addresses. The package also features PC SafeCam for webcam security and a smart firewall. Norton 360 Deluxe is marketed with a promotional first-year rate, with higher renewal prices, and is available through digital subscriptions, app stores, and major retailers. The product is designed for households and individuals seeking comprehensive security solutions.