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Is the tide turning? Jury holds YouTube and Meta accountable for addictive apps
AppWizard
March 25, 2026

Is the tide turning? Jury holds YouTube and Meta accountable for addictive apps

A jury has found YouTube and Meta liable for millions due to negligent and addictive app design, following a lawsuit by K.G.M., who experienced severe mental distress linked to her use of these platforms during her teenage years. K.G.M. filed her lawsuit in 2023, citing struggles with body dysmorphia and self-harm as a direct result of her experiences on these platforms. TikTok and Snap settled out of court, while YouTube and Meta contested the claims. The jury's ruling mandates that Meta and YouTube pay millions in compensatory damages, with Meta responsible for the majority. A spokesperson for Google disagreed with the verdict and stated intentions to appeal.
Avast VPN: An in-depth review of its speed, security and value
Tech Optimizer
March 21, 2026

Avast VPN: An in-depth review of its speed, security and value

Avast launched its VPN service, Avast Secureline VPN, in 2017, focusing on encryption, a no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection. The company operates outside the 5, 9, or 14 Eyes alliances, which limits data-sharing with intelligence agencies. In January 2020, Avast faced criticism for collecting user data for its subsidiary, Jumpshot, but ceased this practice shortly after. The VPN offers dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting, basic split tunneling, and a kill switch, but lacks comprehensive features compared to competitors. Supported protocols include WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IPsec, with encryption standards generally secure. Avast claims to operate 700 servers across 27 countries, with a limited selection of streaming-optimized servers. The app supports various platforms but lacks support for Linux or routers. Speed tests showed an average download speed of 275.69 Mbps, but performance in unblocking content was disappointing, with limited success on streaming services. Avast's privacy policy indicates extensive data collection, despite claims of addressing past issues. Customer support includes 24/7 access for paying customers. Pricing tiers include a 60-day free trial, with competitive rates but limited features. Pros include decent speeds and reasonable pricing, while cons highlight controversial data practices, limited information, poor streaming performance, and fewer features compared to competitors.
Top 5 PC games that are becoming learning tools for the new generation
AppWizard
March 14, 2026

Top 5 PC games that are becoming learning tools for the new generation

Video games are recognized as valuable educational tools that enhance student engagement, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Notable educational games include: - Minecraft: Used in classrooms to teach coding, mathematics, architecture, and environmental science. - Kerbal Space Program: Teaches rocket design and orbital physics, helping students understand gravity, propulsion, and aerodynamics. - Portal 2: Aids in teaching physics, spatial reasoning, and logical thinking through puzzle-solving mechanics. - Sid Meier’s Civilization VI: Familiarizes students with world history, diplomacy, and the consequences of policy decisions. - Eco: Focuses on sustainability, environmental policy, and resource management through collaborative gameplay. These games provide immersive experiences in various subjects, suggesting that gaming could significantly influence future educational methods.
Tesla finally brings a Robotaxi update that Android users will love
AppWizard
March 13, 2026

Tesla finally brings a Robotaxi update that Android users will love

Lucid Group has introduced its autonomous robotaxi platform, the Lunar Concept, during its investor day in New York. The Lunar is built on a new Midsize platform designed for both the robotaxi and consumer SUVs priced below 0,000. Lucid's Lunar features a two-seat design with no driver controls and incorporates a redesigned Atlas electric drive unit. The company is in advanced discussions with Uber to deploy vehicles based on this platform. Lucid has also announced a recurring software revenue model that includes an in-vehicle AI assistant and monthly subscriptions for autonomous driving, priced between and . Tesla's Cybercab, introduced in 2019 and showcased in 2024, is currently undergoing road testing and aims for mass production, with a target of one vehicle every ten seconds. Tesla's Cybercab is priced below 0,000, with operating costs as low as 20 cents per mile.
CAFC Reverses District Court’s Finding of Eligibility for Columbia Antivirus Software Claims
Tech Optimizer
March 11, 2026

CAFC Reverses District Court’s Finding of Eligibility for Columbia Antivirus Software Claims

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) reversed a district court's judgment that had deemed Columbia University's patent claims eligible for protection in the case of The Trustees of Columbia University of the City of New York v. Gen Digital Inc. The CAFC concluded that Columbia's claims, related to virus protection, were directed toward an abstract idea and did not introduce a novel method or enhance existing methodologies. The court vacated a contempt order against the defendant’s legal team, Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP, determining that the district court's Disclosure Order regarding potential conflicts of interest was invalid. The CAFC also indicated that one argument from Columbia regarding the "model of function calls" should be examined upon remand, as it may constitute an inventive concept. The court upheld the district court's interpretation of the "emulator" and denied judgment as a matter of law for Norton regarding willful infringement, while reversing the enhanced damages award and instructing a reassessment of attorneys’ fees.
XShield Review 2026: Don't Buy Antivirus, VPN & Ad Blocker Before Reading This!
Tech Optimizer
March 11, 2026

XShield Review 2026: Don’t Buy Antivirus, VPN & Ad Blocker Before Reading This!

XShield is a multi-feature digital security suite operated by Xshield Technologies AG and Xshield USA Inc., governed by Swiss law. It combines six protection categories: antivirus, secure VPN, cyber privacy protection, anti-ransomware, dark web monitoring, and mobile security, supporting unlimited devices across iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. As of March 2026, XShield offers two pricing plans: a monthly plan at .99 and an annual plan at .99, both including full access to all features and 24/7 customer support. It provides a 30-day money-back guarantee for first-time purchases. XShield lacks independent third-party lab certifications. Contact information includes a phone number (+1 800 358 9107), email (care@xshield.com), and 24/7 live chat support.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
March 5, 2026

Control Resonant is far more of an RPG than I expected, complete with talent trees, stats screens, and build-crafting that wouldn’t feel out of place in a Diablo game

Control Resonant features a new protagonist, a different environment, and shifts from gunplay to melee combat, incorporating RPG mechanics. Players can customize their experience in a hub called The Gap, where they refine combat builds. The combat system allows players to charge supernatural abilities through weapon attacks, creating a cycle of attack and power accumulation. Customization includes a shape-shifting weapon, Aberrant, which offers various forms for different playstyles. Players can equip abilities gained from defeating bosses and utilize extensive talent trees for enhancements. The game includes diverse monsters and aims to provide varied combat experiences, drawing inspiration from action titles like Devil May Cry.
Windows 12 won't be released in 2026, despite rumours
Winsage
March 4, 2026

Windows 12 won’t be released in 2026, despite rumours

There are no plans to release Windows 12 this year, according to sources familiar with Microsoft's roadmap. The focus is on enhancing Windows 11, addressing user feedback, and improving its reputation. Claims about Windows 12, codenamed Hudson Valley Next, and its features, including a modular CorePC architecture and deep AI integration, have been refuted. CorePC was a project from 2023 that aimed to revive the WCOS vision but is likely scrapped. The codename Hudson Valley is unrelated to Windows 12, and speculations about a redesigned interface and subscription model lack official backing. Zac Bowden from Windows Central suggests that if Windows 12 is released, it won't be before 2027. Windows 11 has recently reached a record high market share as support for Windows 10 ends.
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