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Tech Optimizer
July 2, 2026

From monolith to Lakebase to LTAP: rethinking the database from storage up

Sixteen years ago, the author began their PhD at UC Berkeley, where they were advised to focus on analytics rather than OLTP databases, which were considered a solved problem. However, upon developing Databricks, they found that OLTP databases were cumbersome, challenging to scale, and fragile. This led to the creation of Lakebase, a serverless Postgres database designed to address these issues by externalizing the write-ahead log (WAL) and data files into independent services. Lakebase architecture separates the WAL into a distributed service called SafeKeeper and data files into another service called PageServer, allowing for improved durability, scalability, and performance. This architecture eliminates data loss risks associated with disk failures and misconfigurations, simplifies high availability, and allows for elastic compute resources. Lakebase also introduces LTAP (Lake Transactional/Analytical Processing), which enables transactions and analytics to operate on a single data copy in real-time, avoiding the need for separate data copies and reducing costs. The system retains Postgres's ACID semantics while storing data in open columnar formats, making it accessible to both transactional and analytical engines without the delays and complexities of traditional replication methods. The architecture allows for unlimited storage, serverless compute, and instant branching, while ensuring that analytics can read the most current transactional data without affecting transactional workloads. LTAP aims to unify transactional and analytical processing by leveraging distinct compute engines for each workload while integrating at the storage layer.
Why Antivirus Is No Longer Just About Virus Protection
Tech Optimizer
July 1, 2026

Why Antivirus Is No Longer Just About Virus Protection

Antivirus software has evolved from focusing solely on detecting and eliminating computer viruses to providing comprehensive digital security solutions. The modern threat landscape includes advanced persistent threats, ransomware, phishing schemes, fraud apps, and AI-enabled cyber threats, necessitating a broader approach to cybersecurity. Current digital security systems must detect behavioral anomalies, protect user identities, monitor network activity, identify scam links, and provide multi-layered protection across various platforms. Contemporary antivirus solutions now incorporate AI-based threat detection, cloud intelligence, web protection, email security, identity protection, and ransomware monitoring, reflecting a shift from reactive measures to proactive prevention. Users are now active holders of digital identities, and antivirus software is expected to safeguard their entire digital lives.
Your Microsoft Store Office apps are losing security updates this year
Winsage
July 1, 2026

Your Microsoft Store Office apps are losing security updates this year

By December 2026, support for Microsoft Store versions of Office applications will cease, and they will no longer receive security updates. New feature updates for Microsoft 365 Apps installed via the Microsoft Store stopped in October 2025. Users are encouraged to transition to Click-to-Run versions to maintain access to updates and security features. Click-to-Run allows for immediate application usability while downloading in the background and updates automatically. The Office Deployment Tool (ODT) can assist users in transitioning to Click-to-Run versions.
Google rolling out new ‘Signatures’ app to Pixel and other Android phones [Gallery]
AppWizard
July 1, 2026

Google rolling out new ‘Signatures’ app to Pixel and other Android phones [Gallery]

Google is introducing a new utility app named “Signatures” for Android users, starting to appear on Pixel devices and select Android smartphones with the June 2026 Play system update. The app is operational on devices like the Google Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, but not on the Oppo Find X9 Ultra, despite the same update. The app serves as a repository for users' digital signatures, which can be drawn, typed, or scanned. Its integration with other applications remains uncertain, and it can only be accessed by manually launching its components. The app is designated as (com.google.android.signature), version “17,” and is compatible with Android 12 and newer versions. It is not available through the Play Store and is distributed exclusively via Play System Updates.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

A Disco Elysium writer once told Josh Sawyer that ‘we can do better than this now,’ and Sawyer agrees

Josh Sawyer, known for his work on Fallout: New Vegas, Pillars of Eternity, and Pentiment, discussed the collaborative nature of game development on the Human Can Opener Podcast. He expressed interest in critiques of his past work, particularly regarding narrative choice in RPGs. Sawyer shared that a writer from Disco Elysium reached out to propose a modern response to his earlier presentation, indicating progress in understanding narrative mechanics in the industry. He emphasized the importance of learning from each other and acknowledged the ongoing exchange of ideas among developers. Sawyer noted the traditional approach to branching dialogue in RPGs can feel constrained but believes there are always new methods to explore. He advocates for mutual respect and encouragement within the industry, emphasizing a shared goal of improvement and innovation.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 28, 2026

The Steam client was hurting PC gaming on Android — Valve’s VR headset accidentally solved it

Playing Windows games on Android has become feasible due to Winlator and open-source technologies like Wine, Box64, and DXVK. User-friendly applications such as GameHub and GameNative have emerged, enhancing mobile gaming experiences to rival dedicated handheld consoles. A major challenge was the reliance on the x86 Windows Steam client, which was resource-intensive on mobile devices. GameNative 1.0 introduced an experimental feature that eliminates the need for the desktop Steam client by using Valve's native Android libraries, improving the gaming experience significantly. Valve released Steamworks SDK version 1.63 in November 2025, which included native ARM64 libraries for Android, allowing for essential Steam functionalities without a translation layer. GameNative integrated these libraries, replacing the desktop client with a more efficient "bionic" Steam client that operates without a user interface, streamlining DRM and matchmaking processes. GameNative now supports Steam Guard TOTP sign-in, enabling smooth authentication and access to the user's Steam library. It downloads games natively, supports cloud saves, and is compatible with most single-player games with Steam DRM. The application boasts a high compatibility rate, with 221 out of 241 games in one user's library showing as compatible. GameNative 1.0 has improved performance with a Vulkan renderer and reworked controller stack. Despite its success, GameNative is not yet available on the Play Store, with nearly a million users sideloading the application. Developers aim to create a Play Store version that complies with Google's policies for easier installation.
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