methods Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 11, 2026

Avast One: Security and privacy suite under the microscope

Avast One is the flagship consumer security suite from Avast (Gen Digital), combining antivirus, firewall, VPN, and privacy utilities into a single subscription for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It offers four primary areas: device security, online privacy, identity protection, and performance tools. Device security includes real-time antivirus, Web Shield, Mail Shield, and Ransomware Shield. The online privacy component features a full VPN service with bank-grade encryption and a no-logs policy. Identity protection includes data breach monitoring and, in some markets, credit monitoring. Performance tools assist with disk cleanup and system optimization. Avast One has three plan tiers: Avast One Essential (free), Avast One Individual (paid, supports multiple devices), and Avast One Family (paid, supports up to 30 devices). Pricing varies based on promotions, with Avast One Individual typically around per year and Avast One Family ranging from to 0 per year. The suite can be downloaded directly from Avast's website, with installers available for various platforms. Avast One includes automatic updates and is designed to operate lightly on modern hardware, with options to minimize system impact during scans. Customer support includes self-help documentation, community forums, and direct support for paying customers. Avast One aims to appeal to both non-technical users and power users, providing a user-friendly interface while allowing for advanced configurations. The product is positioned as a comprehensive solution for households looking to secure multiple devices with a single subscription.

AppWizard

June 11, 2026

Steam’s tired of gift card scams, so it’s killing them off for good

Valve will stop restocking Steam gift cards at retail locations due to increasing scams targeting consumers, particularly the elderly. The company estimates that these cards will no longer be available by the end of 2026, although unspent cards can still be redeemed after that date. Despite the discontinuation, Valve's guest checkout feature will allow digital gifting for gaming experiences.

AppWizard

June 10, 2026

I found a free Android app that makes deleting photos as easy as swiping left

The Sponge app helps users manage photos and videos on their devices by offering a user-friendly interface that allows for easy deletion through a swiping mechanism. Users can swipe left to delete unwanted images and right to keep them, with options to delete by date or collection. The app focuses on local device management, ensuring that deleted photos do not affect those stored in Google Cloud. The free version limits photo deletion to once a month, while a one-time in-app purchase of .49 unlocks the Premium version, which includes video deletion and collection management. Sponge is available on the Google Play Store and features a chronological display of photos, monthly reminders for maintenance, and a "Mission Accomplished" page that shows the number of images reviewed and storage space saved.

AppWizard

June 10, 2026

This hidden Gmail trick gives you virtually unlimited email IDs

In the digital age, users often consider creating new Gmail accounts to take advantage of subscription services and promotional offers. However, a simpler solution is to use Gmail aliases by adding a dot or a + sign to their existing email address. For example, variations like this.is.my.email@gmail.com or thisismyemail+ikea@gmail.com are recognized as the same address by Gmail. This method allows users to subscribe to services without creating new accounts and helps monitor the sharing of personal information. No special settings are required; users just need to modify their email before the @ symbol.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

NFCShare Android malware spreads via fake banking app updates on GitHub

New variants of the NFCShare Android malware are disguised as fake updates for legitimate banking applications and are targeting customers of various banks in Europe through a phishing campaign to steal sensitive payment card data. The malware prompts victims to place their cards near the NFC chip of their mobile devices, using Android’s IsoDep interface to read card information, including card number, type, expiry date, and a 4-digit PIN. The stolen data is exfiltrated to the attacker’s command-and-control host via a WebSocket channel. Recent attacks began on May 14, with victims directed to a phishing site that impersonates a legitimate bank and then to a GitHub repository hosting a malicious APK file. The repository has hosted 56 unique APKs impersonating banking applications primarily from Italy and Spain. The malware has evolved from initially targeting Deutsche Bank in Germany to a broader range of banks. The latest version features malformed APK packaging to complicate automated analysis. Users are advised to download banking applications only from Google Play and to be cautious of verification requests that ask for NFC card scans.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Fumito Ueda on why Gen Atlas has shooting but isn’t a shooter, cool robots, and generative AI

Fumito Ueda, the creator of Gen Atlas, shared insights about the game during a recent meeting. The game features a silent protagonist navigating a vast desert, encountering colossal robots, and engaging in combat. Ueda emphasized the importance of uniqueness in game design and the balance within the overall experience. He aims to refine familiar mechanics while introducing innovative elements, such as a shooting mechanic that enhances player agency without dominating gameplay. Ueda's narrative is influenced by personal experiences and cultural themes, particularly the relevance of robots and AI in today's society. Gen Atlas will be Ueda's first release on PC, allowing him to reach a broader audience. The game will also feature dynamic environmental interactions, contributing to its storytelling.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

‘This looks awesome’: there’s now an unofficial, open source app for reading Whoop data that doesn’t need a subscription

An independent developer has released an open-source application called Noop for Whoop bands, allowing users to access their Whoop data without a subscription fee. The app is available for free on Android and macOS and is compatible with Whoop 4.0, 5.0, and MG bands. Users need to sideload the app on Android devices, with installation instructions provided on GitHub. The app offers a cloud-free experience, appealing to those looking to avoid ongoing costs associated with Whoop subscriptions. Feedback on Reddit has been positive, although some users have requested help with installation. The developer has created algorithms to interpret raw data from Whoop devices, but it is uncertain how Whoop will respond to this app. Noop is part of a trend of alternative fitness applications, including Goose and Whoof.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Top messenger apps in Spain by downloads 2022| Statista

- There has been a significant rise in e-commerce sales, with consumers increasingly preferring online shopping over traditional retail. - Sustainability and ethical sourcing are becoming key factors in consumers' purchasing decisions, leading businesses to reevaluate their supply chains. - Companies adopting advanced technologies like AI and machine learning are experiencing improved efficiency and customer engagement. - Organizations that adapt quickly to changing market conditions are more likely to succeed, reflected in increased investment in research and development.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

2.5D Metroidvania game Gemini X announced for PC – inspired by 32-bit run-and-gun platformers

Toronto-based Komi Games has announced Gemini X, a 2.5D Metroidvania game aimed at fans of classic 32-bit run-and-gun platformers, set to launch on PC via Steam without a specific release date. The game takes place in a hijacked human space colony, Z.C.N. 02, where players can choose their path and face bosses in any order, influencing the game's outcome. The art style is vibrant and stylized, accompanied by a synth-and-hard-rock soundtrack reminiscent of the PS1 era. Key features include: - The Heretechs, a rogue faction of robotic freedom fighters, control the colony and players can gain their abilities. - Players can uncover hidden pathways and manipulate battles against the Heretechs. - Players act as disruptors, stealthily navigating the station to thwart the Heretechs' plans. - Players assume the role of Rook, a C.A.S.T.L.E. security officer, tasked with reclaiming the colony. - The gameplay involves fluid run-and-gun mechanics, allowing players to dash, jump, and shoot while discovering new powers. An announcement trailer and screenshots are available on the official website.

AppWizard

June 7, 2026

Solarpunk management game BioEden announced for PS5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, and PC

Publisher Focus Entertainment and developer Broken Arms Games are releasing the solarpunk management game BioEden on PC via Steam on September 3, with future releases planned for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Switch 2. A demo is currently available for PC users. In BioEden, players act as a Keeper, tasked with revitalizing a world by crafting biomes for various animal species and restoring ecosystems. Players will discover debris sites to recycle materials, build structures, and establish solar energy and water systems while managing resources and pollution. The game features a Cosmic Collective of five Guilds, each with unique identities and philosophies that influence gameplay. BioEden emphasizes exploration and transformation without fail states or time constraints.