issues Archives

Tech Optimizer

July 13, 2026

Best antivirus software for 2026, tested and reviewed by an expert

The digital landscape is increasingly threatened by scams and cyberattacks, necessitating robust antivirus solutions for various devices. Modern antivirus software has evolved into comprehensive security suites that include features like VPNs, email protection, and dark web monitoring. Users must balance feature richness with system performance, as costs can vary significantly after initial promotional rates. The best antivirus software includes: - Bitdefender Premium: Rated 4.5/5, priced from £49.99 per year, known for strong performance and a comprehensive feature set but limited to a single device for the free version. - Surfshark One: Rated 4/5, priced from £1.99 per month, recognized for its user-friendly interface but lacking some central features. - Norton 360 Deluxe: Rated 4/5, priced from £29.99 per year, praised for excellent performance and light system impact, though its interface is less polished. - Avira Free Security: Rated 3/5, free option available, offers basic protection but prompts users to upgrade frequently. - Avast One: Rated 4/5, free option available, features a modular design but includes persistent upgrade prompts. Each antivirus package provides solid protection against cyber threats, with many offering free trials for evaluation.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

How to Install Messaging Apps Safely on Windows PCs and Android Devices

Messaging applications are widely used for communication across various platforms, including Windows PCs and Android devices. Users often install these apps on both types of devices to facilitate conversations. The installation process requires careful consideration of the app's source, compatibility, permissions, and avoidance of counterfeit installers. Before installation, users should verify the app's source for transparency and security, ensuring it is from a trusted provider and appropriate for their device. For Windows users, a checklist includes confirming system compatibility, verifying the installer, and reading installation screens carefully. Android users should also confirm the app's source, check permissions, and avoid suspicious APK files. Fake installers and unsafe APKs pose risks, as they can contain modified versions of apps that compromise security. Users should be cautious of misleading download pages and links shared in online groups. Keeping messaging apps updated is essential for performance and security, and users should manage updates from trusted sources. Before logging into a messaging app, users should ensure it was downloaded from a reliable source, verify the file's compatibility with their device, review permissions, and safeguard verification codes. After logging in, users should check active sessions and remain vigilant against suspicious links and files.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

“Think Google Docs meets a creative sandbox like Fortnite or Minecraft”: Audiotool 3.0 turns its multiplayer online DAW into an open platform for creator-built music tools

Audiotool 3.0 has launched, introducing real-time multiplayer music creation capabilities via web browsers and tablets, with mobile applications planned. The update features NEXUS, an open-source SDK that allows users to create their own instruments, plugins, and AI tools within the Audiotool ecosystem. The platform aims to enhance collaboration by addressing issues like device discrepancies and incompatible plugins, boasting the lowest latency among online music production tools. Users can design custom instruments, effects, and applications, and the SDK supports AI integrations. Launch partners for NEXUS include Splice, Ujam, BandM8, and Fraunhofer, and Audiotool is hosting a hackathon series until August 23 to encourage innovation.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Palworld pulled in almost 900,000 players over the weekend, its second-highest peak ever

Palworld has transitioned from early access to its 1.0 launch without a price increase, resulting in a peak of 855,525 concurrent players on Steam. The game's all-time peak player count is 2.1 million, surpassing titles like Counter Strike 2 and Dota 2, with only Black Myth: Wukong and PUBG having higher records. Players have requested additional content and improvements, while some have raised concerns about game stability and mechanics. The developers aim to maintain a solid player base following the successful launch.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Windows 11’s smallest upgrade shows a big commitment from Microsoft

Windows 11 is set to receive an update that includes a slightly taller search box in the Start menu, increasing its height by four pixels. This change, currently in preview, is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative aimed at improving user experience by addressing inconsistencies in the operating system. The update was revealed in the release notes for a preview build, leading to humorous reactions from users. Despite the minor nature of this adjustment, it highlights ongoing design issues within Windows 11, such as misaligned windows and inconsistent menus, which contribute to a perception of incompleteness. Additionally, the context menus in the latest preview build feature more rounded corners, raising questions about UI consistency. The Windows K2 initiative aims to enhance both performance and visual appeal, improving the overall user experience.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Microsoft demystifies how Windows updates work

Microsoft has released a guide on the Windows servicing model, detailing monthly security updates, optional preview releases, hotpatch updates, and feature rollout mechanisms. Patch Tuesday occurs every second Tuesday of the month, delivering cumulative security updates to supported Windows versions. For consumers and small businesses, updates are managed through Windows Update, while enterprises can use various tools like Windows Autopatch and WSUS. Hotpatch updates, which focus on security fixes, can be installed without a restart, unlike quarterly baseline updates that require one. Optional non-security preview updates are released in the fourth week of each month for testing upcoming fixes and new features, available only for the latest supported Windows versions. Unmanaged devices can access these updates through Windows Update settings, while IT-managed devices depend on organizational policies. Microsoft also issues out-of-band updates to address urgent issues, which can be deployed through enterprise management tools. New features for Windows 11 are rolled out throughout the year via various channels, with a gradual rollout strategy to monitor quality and compatibility, using the Controlled Feature Rollout approach.

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Microsoft expands AI-powered Windows security

AI-driven security tools are enhancing Microsoft's ability to detect vulnerabilities earlier, improving the speed of Windows security responses. Microsoft is integrating AI into its Windows security strategy to expedite the discovery, analysis, and remediation of vulnerabilities in its software development process. This integration allows security teams to identify potential issues more quickly across large codebases, reducing the time between vulnerability identification and protective measures implementation. The updated strategy combines AI-powered security analysis tools with advanced multi-model agentic scanning systems to detect, validate, and prioritize high-confidence risks. Microsoft is also incorporating AI into engineering workflows to assist developers in investigating issues, recommending fixes, and enhancing testing, while ensuring human oversight. The company is investing in automated patching, vulnerability management, and deployment tools to facilitate efficient application of security updates. This approach reflects a shift towards continuous, AI-assisted security engineering, moving away from traditional periodic security updates.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Super Mario 64’s superior version is finally getting a PC port

Super Mario 64 is considered one of Nintendo's best games and is essential for Nintendo 64 owners. It was reimagined for the Nintendo DS, which introduced new playable characters (Yoshi, Luigi, and Wario) and levels, as well as multiplayer experiences. However, the DS version has drawbacks, including graphics that may not perform well on larger screens and controls that are less effective for a 3D platformer. A PC decompilation project led by tangosdev aims to improve these issues, potentially combining features from both the original and DS versions. Progress is ongoing, and while completion is not imminent, it may resolve the debate over which version is superior.

Winsage

July 12, 2026

This unofficial PowerShell script for improving Windows 11 gets a useful driver feature

This weekend, discussions emerged reflecting user frustration with Windows 11 and Microsoft products, particularly regarding updates. A recent cumulative update introduced a customizable Start menu but also fixed a bug that was consuming users' storage. Microsoft has mandated that users cannot ignore these updates, contributing to dissatisfaction. Many users are opting for third-party applications like Files and Win11Debloat as alternatives to the native Explorer app. The latest version of Win11Debloat, released on July 11, 2026, includes features to prevent automatic installation of unwanted OEM apps with drivers, a reboot warning for certain functions, and various fixes and enhancements. Notable additions include support for WhatIf in Get.ps1, disabling Windows Notifications, and improvements in handling registry-backup load failures. The app is available on its official GitHub repository or through the Neowin software stories page.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Going from skull-cracker to safecracker in Dishonored 2

The author reflects on their experience playing Dishonored and its sequel, detailing their initial chaotic playstyle that led to a High Chaos ending. They express a desire to adopt a stealth approach in the game, facing challenges from the Chaos system and the deteriorating state of the city. In Dishonored 2, they aim for a flawless run without kills or detections, which requires extensive planning and execution. The Clockwork Mansion mission tests their resolve, particularly when confronting the character Kirin Jindosh and solving the Jindosh Lock puzzle. The author ultimately finds satisfaction in solving the puzzle independently, using creativity and notes to aid in their success.