screen Archives

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

What is Android System Intelligence and what happens if you turn it off?

Android System Intelligence (ASI) is a component created by Google that enhances user experience on Android devices, particularly on Pixel phones, by supporting features like Live Caption, Now Playing, Smart Autorotate, and app predictions. ASI operates within Android's Private Compute Core, introduced in 2021, and utilizes machine learning without direct internet access, relying on Private Compute Services for cloud updates. It collects data such as crash logs and device identifiers for analytics, with users having the option to disable this data collection. ASI is not a standalone app but an infrastructure that supports various features, including music identification and smart notification actions. It requests extensive permissions for functionalities like smart predictions and contact suggestions, though not all features require all permissions. The privacy framework of ASI is designed to limit direct internet access, and users can view a Network Usage Log on Pixel devices. Disabling ASI is possible but does not remove it; it can be turned off under Settings > Apps. Reports indicate that essential phone functions remain intact even when ASI features are disabled, such as Now Playing and Live Caption. Google has not stated that disabling ASI will cause instability in the Android operating system. For troubleshooting ASI issues, Google recommends restarting the device, updating software, force-stopping the app, or clearing its cache or data. ASI has over 5 billion downloads on Google Play.

Winsage

August 27, 2026

Windows 8 Remastered concept may make you forget your hate for the controversial OS

Windows 8 Remastered is a new concept by YouTuber AR 4789 that combines modern design with the original Windows 8 interface. It features a desktop experience with Live Tiles and Widgets, a traditional Taskbar with a Start button, and a redesigned lock screen. The File Explorer has been overhauled with Fluent Design principles and larger tiles, while the Charms bar has received cosmetic enhancements. The concept also includes Snap Assist and a redesigned Windows Settings app that retains personalization options from Windows 11. It is designed to work across various devices, catering to both touch-friendly and traditional desktop users.

Tech Optimizer

August 27, 2026

What The Tech: Beware of the anti-virus popup scam

A viewer encountered a popup warning claiming her device was infected with 120 viruses, which is a scam designed to induce panic and prompt users to download a deceptive app called “Total Cleaner.” This app has fake reviews, hidden costs, and privacy concerns. Modern smartphones typically do not need traditional antivirus programs, and such popups are ads from free apps or misleading websites. To protect oneself, it is advised to close the browser tab immediately, keep the device updated, and only download apps from official app stores after thorough research.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

7 Things to Check Before Installing a Messaging App on Your Laptop in 2026

Many students, remote workers, freelancers, and office professionals are integrating desktop messaging into their daily routines due to the efficiency of larger screens for longer conversations and document management. Installing a messaging app on a laptop requires checking compatibility with the operating system, available storage, and necessary permissions. Users should verify the legitimacy of the app's source and decide whether a desktop or web version is more suitable for their needs. Language settings should be configured early to avoid confusion, and notification settings must be adjusted to minimize distractions. Users should monitor storage for accumulated files from messaging apps and regularly review connected devices to maintain account security.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

Motorola details everything coming with its big Android 17 update

Motorola is set to enhance its smartphones with the upcoming Android 17 software update, which includes features such as stackable widgets, themed icons, and the ability to hide labels from Quick Settings tiles. The update will integrate support for Live Updates and AI-driven notification summaries, as well as machine learning models to identify low-priority notifications. Display capabilities will improve for HDR content, with adjustable brightness settings. New sharing methods include Tap to Share for one-on-one sharing and Quick Drop for group sharing. The update also promises enhanced security, app compatibility, performance improvements, bug fixes, and additional features like cross-platform Quick Share capabilities and Audio Sharing. Over 50 Motorola devices, including recent Razr and Edge models, will receive the update.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

How to sideload Android apps on your phone in 2026 – and what’s behind the changes

Google has revamped the sideloading process on Android devices with a new protocol called "Advanced Flow" to enhance user security while allowing the installation of applications from downloaded APK files. Users must enable sideloading, authenticate their identity, and confirm they are not being pressured into installation, followed by a device restart and a 24-hour waiting period. Users can choose to allow installations for seven days or indefinitely. To sideload apps, users need to download an APK file, disable Advanced Protection temporarily, install the app, and then re-enable Advanced Protection. Caution is advised when downloading APK files from unknown sources, with recommendations for trusted sites like APKMirror, F-Droid, and Uptodown.

Winsage

August 26, 2026

Microsoft tests new privacy controls for Windows 11 desktop apps

Microsoft is enhancing privacy controls in Windows 11, allowing users to manage camera, microphone, and location permissions for individual desktop applications. This feature is being tested in the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26340.9233. Users can access these settings through Settings > Privacy & security > Camera, Microphone, or Location, where they can grant or revoke access. Microsoft advises users to only grant access to trusted applications. This update follows a previous announcement about smartphone-style app permission prompts, aiming to give users more control over their personal data and device features. The rollout of these features will occur in phases, with adjustments based on user feedback. Additionally, Microsoft is testing a new accessibility setting to automatically maximize app windows upon opening.

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2026

AVG Antivirus Review 2026: Is the Free Version Enough?

AVG AntiVirus Free has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, with specific scores of 4.7 for protection, 4.3 for performance and features, and 3.5 for customer support. The software is available for free or can be purchased starting at .88 for the first year, with pricing verified in August 2026. It achieved a 99.77% malware detection rate with only four false alarms and offers features such as real-time protection and Ransomware Protection. However, customer support is rated lower, and there are upselling prompts after scans. AVG is owned by Gen Digital and has been in operation for over 35 years, originally founded as Grisoft in the Czech Republic. The free version includes essential features like File Shield, Behavior Shield, Web Shield, Email Shield, and Ransomware Protection, while some features like Enhanced Firewall and Fake Website Shield are exclusive to paid versions. AVG's performance on Windows 11 has been validated by independent tests, scoring 6/6/6 in AV-TEST and achieving a 96.3% offline detection rate in AV-Comparatives. The software is available across multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. AVG's customer support includes email and phone options, with a reasonable response time. The software is safe to install when downloaded from official sources, and it has been recognized for its effectiveness in malware detection.

Tech Optimizer

August 26, 2026

Catch Of The Week: The ‘Security Scan’ That Wants You Defenseless

Researchers at Malwarebytes have identified a network of deceptive websites posing as a service called “SysScan,” which pretends to conduct Microsoft security checkups. Users encounter these sites through search results, browser hijacking pop-ups, or unsolicited emails. The sites use Microsoft branding and a fake progress bar to create the illusion of a scan, but they only collect harmless data like operating system and location, which are then manipulated into alarming fake alerts. The fabricated security score is predetermined and does not reflect the user's actual security status. The scam misleads users into believing that Windows no longer supports third-party antivirus software, prompting them to uninstall their protections, which increases their vulnerability. Users are then asked to provide personal and banking information through a form that sends data via a Telegram bot. Eleven fraudulent sites have been traced back to a single server. Indicators of the scam include requests to disable antivirus software, installation of remote-access software, and solicitation of sensitive information. Microsoft does not initiate cold calls or scan computers through web pages. If someone has engaged with the scam, they should disconnect from the internet, uninstall any remote-access tools, reinstall antivirus software, and report the incident to authorities.

AppWizard

August 26, 2026

Wildberries released its own messenger

Wildberries has launched its messaging platform, WB Chat, which is now available for download on the App Store and Google Play. Users can log in using their WB ID. The app features a user-friendly interface with organized chat tabs, allows users to create groups or channels, and includes profile customization options. It supports photo and video sharing, message forwarding, replying to messages, setting statuses, and transcribing voice messages. WB Chat is published on Google Play under WB FZE, with a location in the Hamriyah Free Zone, UAE. The app is currently in beta testing. It is also available on RuStore, and a web version is being developed. Wildberries plans to expand the messenger internationally after its initial launch in Russia.