privacy dashboard Archives

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

AppWizard

October 25, 2024

Android app permissions explained and how to use them

Since Android 6.0 Marshmallow, users have control over app permissions, allowing them to manage what information and features apps can access. Android app permissions determine an application's access to device functionalities, such as reading SMS messages, using the camera, or accessing location data. Users must approve permission requests through on-screen prompts when launching an app for the first time. Permissions can be modified later through the Apps menu, where users can see which permissions have been granted or denied. Permissions include access to body sensors, calendar events, call logs, camera, contacts, files and media, location, microphone, nearby devices, notifications, phone information, physical activity logs, and SMS. Users can also check permissions by type in the Privacy tab of the Settings menu, allowing them to see how many apps have requested each permission. It is advisable to deny unnecessary permissions, especially for apps that request access that does not align with their functionality. Android 12 introduced features for enhanced transparency, allowing users to disable camera and microphone permissions for all apps and receive notifications when these features are accessed. The Privacy Dashboard provides insights into app permissions used over the past 24 hours. Android 13 added a photo picker feature for sharing specific media without granting full file system access.

AppWizard

May 17, 2024

Wear OS 5 Developer Preview has two new features Google didn’t tell us about

- Wear OS 5 introduces a grid-based app launcher, which can be toggled within settings or accessed at the end of the app list.