links Archives

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

Android 16 QPR1 delivers a colorful Settings app redesign [Gallery]

Android version 16 QPR1 introduces a redesigned Settings app featuring a vibrant palette of pastel colors, moving away from the previous monochromatic gray interface. This update aligns with Google's Material 3 Expressive design language, enhancing user experience through bold aesthetics. The lock screen has also adopted a bolder appearance. Each category in the Settings app is now represented by unique hues, aiding navigation, although color assignments do not follow a strict logic. The functionality of the app remains unchanged, with the redesign aimed at creating a more inviting user environment.

Winsage

May 20, 2025

Microsoft Makes Individual Developer Accounts Free Next Month

Microsoft is removing all onboarding fees for individual developers to publish applications on the Microsoft Store, effective next month. This change allows developers to publish without a credit card, making the platform more accessible. Company accounts will still incur a fee, but individual developers can utilize the built-in developer mode on Windows 10, 11, and Xbox consoles to create unsigned applications. The Microsoft Store will also see improvements in discovery, delivery, and user acquisition processes. While developer mode is popular for running emulation software, it remains limited by the deprecated UWP application platform, affecting Xbox console applications.

BetaBeacon

May 20, 2025

Someone ported the iconic pinball game from Windows XP to Android, and it’s free

"Space Cadet" pinball game from Windows XP has been ported to Android by developer Kyle Sylvertre. The game is optimized for touchscreens, supports 18 languages, integrates with Google Play Games for a leaderboard, and is less than 5MB in size. It is completely free with no ads or in-app purchases.

AppWizard

May 20, 2025

Otome Games Celebration PC Sale Starts on Steam

Valve has launched the Otome Games Celebration on Steam, running until May 26, 2025, featuring a selection of paid and free-to-play visual novels from the otome genre. The event includes significant discounts on titles from various publishers, such as Alaris, Bustafellows Season 2, Diffraction, Fate’s Masquerade, and Talents, as well as numerous indie otome games. It also highlights upcoming releases and demos, providing players with a preview of future titles in the genre.

Tech Optimizer

May 17, 2025

Do You Really Need Antivirus on Windows 11? Probably Not—Here’s Why

Windows 11 has robust built-in security features that may reduce the need for third-party antivirus software. Windows Security now offers comprehensive protection, including real-time malware detection, firewall protection, SmartScreen alerts, hardware-level security, account monitoring, and system health reports. According to AV-TEST results from January and February 2025, Microsoft Defender Antivirus scored 6.0/6.0 in protection, performance, and usability, effectively stopping advanced malware and phishing attempts with minimal system resource usage. Users of Microsoft Edge benefit from SmartScreen filtering, while those using other browsers receive system notifications for network protection. Basic digital hygiene practices, such as avoiding suspicious downloads and keeping software updated, are crucial for security. Third-party antivirus solutions may offer additional features but can lead to performance issues and privacy concerns. For casual users who maintain their systems and practice safe browsing, Windows Security is generally sufficient, while those handling sensitive information or needing advanced features may consider premium antivirus options.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

DMM Games and Too Kyo Games announce Shuten Order for Switch, PC

Publisher DMM Games and developer Too Kyo Games are collaborating on a new project titled Shuten Order, led by Kazutaka Kodaka, known for the Danganronpa series. The game will be available on Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam, with Spike Chunsoft publishing it in Western markets. Details about the genre and release date are not yet available. A teaser trailer has been released in both English and Japanese versions.

Winsage

May 16, 2025

Microsoft solves dual-boot problems with Windows and Linux

Microsoft addressed issues with dual-boot installations involving Linux that were caused by updates released in August, which disrupted many configurations and Linux boot media. The updates aimed to enhance security by blocking outdated boot managers but resulted in error messages indicating a security policy violation. To resolve these issues, Microsoft created the Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT) update to prevent installation on dual-boot systems, but the detection mechanism was often ineffective. The SBAT update was paused in September, and Microsoft announced that the problem was resolved with security updates released in May. Affected Windows versions include Windows Server editions from 2012 to 2022, Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2), and Windows 10 (versions 22H2, 21H2, and Enterprise 2015 LTSB). Microsoft also provided guidance for users to prevent the SBAT update and steps to restore dual-boot systems.

AppWizard

May 16, 2025

Google Maps has stopped showing alternate routes on app, Android Auto for some

Users are currently unable to view alternate routes on Google Maps for both mobile applications and Android Auto, a functionality that typically shows faster or slower route options. This issue has been reported by numerous users on forums and social media, and tests confirm that the Pixel 9 Pro Fold also does not display these suggestions when connected to Android Auto. The cause of the problem is unclear but may be related to recent software updates. There are also reports of lagging issues with Google Maps on CarPlay, although it is uncertain if the alternate route problem affects that platform.

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

Best antivirus software for Windows 2025, tried and tested

Antivirus software has been a common tool for PC users over the past two decades, with many opting for third-party solutions for enhanced protection despite Windows 11's built-in features. User behavior significantly impacts computer security, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unknown links and not reusing passwords. Antivirus packages are designed to combat threats like ransomware, spyware, and viruses. The evaluation process for antivirus applications involved testing on a Windows 11 PC with simulated virus attacks and scanning the SSD for performance metrics. The top antivirus apps for 2025 include BitDefender Total Security (£49.99), Avira Free (free), Malwarebytes Plus (£49.99), and Sophos Home Premium (£37.46).

AppWizard

May 15, 2025

A year later, research reveals Google’s AI Overviews ‘reimagined’ Search

Recent research from BrightEdge indicates that Google's AI Overviews have resulted in a 49% increase in search impressions, although click-through rates have declined as these overviews appear in about 11% of search queries. Jim Yu, CEO of BrightEdge, noted that rather than diminishing traditional search, AI is evolving it. Google has been refining its AI Overviews since May 2024, focusing on improving reliability and addressing inaccuracies. The AI includes in-line links for source verification, enhancing credibility. Despite challenges, such as the "glue cheese on pizza" incident, Google is committed to improving the AI's discernment of legitimate queries. The functionality of AI Overviews has recently expanded to include one-tap actions for users seeking contact information related to the Galaxy S25 series.