key Archives

Winsage

April 1, 2026

Microsoft wants to build ‘100% native’ Windows apps and ditch memory-hogging web apps

Microsoft is refocusing on native applications for the Windows operating system, as announced by Rudy Huyn, a Partner Architect at Microsoft. The initiative aims for applications to be "100% native," moving away from the reliance on WebView, which has been associated with increased memory usage and performance issues. For example, the WebView version of WhatsApp reportedly consumes significantly more memory than its native version. This shift aligns with Microsoft's strategy to improve foundational aspects of Windows 11, including minimizing disruptions from Windows Update and enhancing taskbar customization. The company aims to lower the baseline memory footprint of Windows, with transitioning app code from WebView to native frameworks being a potential contributor to this goal.

Tech Optimizer

April 1, 2026

Norton Review 2026: Solid Antivirus With Great Safe Browsing Tools and Parental Controls

Norton Antivirus has a score of 8.3/10. It offers extensive parental controls on some plans, cloud backups for sensitive data, and a high-quality safe browser. However, its identity theft protection features are limited to U.S. users, it has higher resource usage than most competitors, and reaching human customer support can be difficult. Norton provides a comprehensive cybersecurity suite that includes a password manager, safe browser, cloud backups, and privacy monitoring. Its antivirus software features real-time protection, manual and automated scans, and scan scheduling. Norton Family allows parents to implement controls on children's devices. Norton does not offer a free version but provides complimentary tools such as a password manager and data breach scan. Norton AntiVirus Plus is priced for basic security needs, while Norton 360 Standard and Deluxe offer additional features like dark web monitoring and enhanced parental controls. The setup process is user-friendly, and the software operates smoothly with moderate resource usage during scans. Norton’s additional tools include device optimization, a safe browser, and a privacy monitor, though some features may not meet expectations. Norton has received high marks in security rankings, maintaining a perfect security ranking from AV-Test for the past decade. It employs strong encryption protocols for its tools and adheres to a no-logs policy for its VPN. Customer support options include a community forum, knowledge base, and 24/7 live chat and phone support, though email support is absent. Norton’s pricing is competitive, especially for families, and it can cover up to 10 devices depending on the plan.

AppWizard

April 1, 2026

The Google Play Store has a serious problem with shady cast-to-TV apps

Recent investigations into the Google Play Store have revealed that a small group of developer networks is dominating the cast-to-TV and screen mirroring category, operating over 280 apps under deceptive accounts with a total of 1.8 billion installs. Users have reported that many of these apps do not function as advertised, displaying uncloseable ads, charging for "free trials," and promoting high weekly subscription fees. Key problematic networks identified include: - iKame/Begamob (Vietnam): Manages over four accounts and more than 130 apps, with approximately 1.5 billion installs. - MaxLabs (Hong Kong): Operates eight developer accounts with various app names. - Package ID ai.chatbot.alpha.chatapp: Originally an AI chatbot, now rebranded as a casting tool. - Nice – Polska Sp. z o.o.: Claimed to be a UK shell company run by an individual in Pakistan. - Incube Technologies (Pakistan/UAE): Offers app store optimization services under the name “SwiftBiz Apps.” Google is currently investigating these allegations and has stated that it will take appropriate action against apps violating its policies.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

The March Windows 11 Insider Update adds 9 fresh features and improvements worth knowing

- Microsoft has introduced several enhancements for Windows 11 through its Windows Insider Program, including previews for versions 25H2, 26H1, 26H2, and anticipated version 27H2. - The Pointer Indicator feature, starting with build 26300.8085, helps users with low vision locate the mouse pointer by overlaying a crosshair effect and offers customizable color options. - A redesigned Feedback Hub app aligns with Windows 11 aesthetics and improves user experience for feedback submission, including Bluetooth LE Audio device connections and main volume controls in Quick Settings. - The File Explorer context menu now displays application icons alongside the "Open" option for certain file types, available in the Canary Channel with build 28020.1743. - The Administrator Protection feature, introduced in builds 26300.8142 and 26220.8138, prompts an authorization dialog for unsigned or untrusted applications seeking privilege elevation, enhancing security. - Windows 11 now allows customization of the right-click zone size on touchpads, available under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touchpad, for touchpads with a pressable surface. - Task Manager updates include new columns for "NPU" and "NPU Engine" on various pages, as well as columns for "NPU Dedicated Memory" and "NPU Shared Memory" on the Details page. - A new icon in printer settings indicates which printers support Windows Protected Print mode, enhancing printing security. - The Windows Console is undergoing significant changes, merging improvements from Windows Terminal, including an optional Direct3D rendering path and enhanced Find dialog functionality.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

Speechify Launches with On-Device Voice AI for 1B+ Windows Users Worldwide

Speechify has launched a Windows application featuring real-time text-to-speech and speech-to-text functionality, allowing for both cloud-based and on-device processing. On-device processing ensures user voice data remains secure on the machine. The application utilizes the Windows ML stack and platform APIs to operate across x64 and Arm64 architectures, leveraging Qualcomm’s Snapdragon technology for enhanced performance. The ONNX Runtime's QNN execution provider facilitates real-time transcription on Snapdragon laptops, enabling a split encoder-decoder architecture that optimizes processing. The application includes features like system-wide shortcuts, auto-pasting of transcribed text, OCR functionality, and secure data handling through Windows DPAPI. The Speechify Windows application is available for x64 and Arm64 devices via the Microsoft Store.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

The Microsoft ecosystem glow-up: How Teams, OneDrive, and Windows 11 now work together without headaches

Windows 11 integrates seamlessly with OneDrive and Microsoft Teams, enhancing productivity and workflow efficiency. It comes pre-installed with these applications, allowing users to access notifications and features easily. Meeting recordings can be saved directly in OneDrive, and the search functionality allows users to find documents and messages across platforms effortlessly. The Fluent Design language provides a cohesive user experience, facilitating smooth transitions between tasks. Additionally, the Copilot AI feature assists users by summarizing missed communications, crafting meeting agendas, and simplifying file management in both Teams and OneDrive. This integration supports a focused work environment, minimizing distractions and interruptions.

AppWizard

March 31, 2026

Top 6 free crypto mining apps for Android in 2026

The appetite for free crypto mining applications on Android devices is increasing in 2026, with users seeking ways to earn Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies without investing in expensive mining hardware. Mobile mining solutions now utilize cloud-based infrastructures and reward systems, allowing users to generate daily crypto income with minimal technical skills. Key mining applications include: 1. AngelBTC: Offers daily sign-in hashpower with structured mining contracts, emphasizing renewable energy sources. 2. CryptoTab Browser Lite: Allows passive Bitcoin mining through daily web browsing, with modest earnings dependent on user activity and referrals. 3. StormGain: Combines a trading platform with mining features, enabling easy activation and reward monitoring. 4. ECOS: A regulated cloud mining provider offering trial access and structured contracts for new users. 5. MinerGate Mobile Miner: Supports multi-currency mining from mobile devices, though profitability is low due to hardware limitations. 6. NiceHash: A marketplace for buying or selling mining power, aimed at experienced users. In 2026, Android mining apps are categorized into three types: cloud mining, on-device mining, and reward-based systems. The most effective model combines cloud mining with engagement-based entry mechanisms. Industry trends include a shift toward structured entry models, transparent contracts, and a focus on renewable energy. Users should be cautious of unrealistic profit claims, withdrawal restrictions, and the potential for simulated mining rather than actual hashpower.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

Windows 11 Update Adds Support for Display Refresh Rates Above 1,000Hz

Microsoft's preview update for Windows 11, KB5079391, initially supported display refresh rates exceeding 1,000Hz, potentially reaching up to 5,000Hz. The update was applicable to Windows 11 versions 25H2, 24H2, and 26H1. It introduced enhancements such as improved auto-rotation and HDR reliability, better power efficiency for USB4-connected monitors, detailed image descriptions for Copilot and Copilot+ PCs using Narrator, and redesigned dialog boxes in the Accounts settings menu. However, Microsoft retracted the update on March 27 due to installation issues, with plans to roll out the enhancements in a future release.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

Fastfetch 2.61 System Information Tool Drops Windows 7 and 8 Support

Fastfetch version 2.61 has been released, discontinuing support for Windows 7 and 8, with Windows 8.1 as the oldest supported version. The GPU module on Windows now uses DXCore for improved detection accuracy, available only on Windows 10 and later. In the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), the GPU module has been optimized for speed but may have reduced accuracy due to the removal of directx-headers. On Linux, Fastfetch has transitioned to a pure C implementation, enhancing performance and simplifying the build process. New features include a brightness option for color display, detection of Bluetooth keyboards on Linux, display of empty memory slots, support for GlazeWM detection, identification of marketing product names on Asahi Linux, and recognition of M5-based Mac models on macOS. Improvements in hardware detection and system reporting have been made across all platforms, with enhanced SMBIOS data handling and reliability for Intel-based Macs. Stability improvements for terminating child processes on Windows have also been implemented. Critical fixes address missing memory device reporting, CPU cache deduplication issues, accurate window manager version reporting for niri, SSID decoding problems, and a Windows-specific issue affecting the command prompt code page.

AppWizard

March 31, 2026

These 16 Car Brands Just Got A Huge New Android Auto Feature

Google Maps is rolling out an update (version 25.44) for Android Auto users that will provide battery status monitoring for electric vehicles (EVs). This feature will support over 350 car models from 16 manufacturers, offering AI-driven recommendations for charging needs during long journeys. Users can enter their destination to receive insights on battery level upon arrival and estimated time of arrival (ETA), including necessary charging stops. To use this feature, users must add their EV to Google Maps by entering details such as make, model, year, and trim. The feature will not maintain a live connection to the vehicle, and its accuracy depends on the information provided by the user.