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Tech Optimizer

August 24, 2026

Fake Microsoft security scans trick victims into uninstalling their antivirus

A surge of fraudulent websites claiming to verify antivirus software functionality has emerged, using the name SysScan and misleadingly asserting that Windows no longer supports third-party antivirus solutions. These sites conduct fake security scans, gather personal information, and set up a refund scam. Eleven such websites were found hosted on a single server, executing similar deceptive tactics. They can access basic browser data but cannot conduct genuine security scans. Microsoft continues to support third-party antivirus software, and legitimate refund processes do not require uninstalling security tools. The scams instruct users to remove their antivirus software to facilitate further manipulation and to collect information about the antivirus in use. The customer information forms collect extensive personal data and are designed to send this information to a Telegram bot API. Victims are promised a refund call after submitting their information, which is part of the scam's manipulation. Signs of such scams include claims of deep problems with the computer, consistently negative diagnostic results, requests to uninstall antivirus software, and demands for banking information. If affected, victims should disconnect from the internet, remove remote-access tools, and contact their bank. The hosting IP address for these sites is 157.230.180.90, with multiple associated domains listed.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

What to try when an Android app keeps crashing

Developers frequently update apps on the Google Play Store to improve user experience and fix bugs, with app crashes often resulting from problematic updates. To troubleshoot an app, users should check for updates in the Play Store. If no updates are available, users can access the app's settings by long-pressing the app icon or navigating through Settings > Apps. Users can clear the app's cache and force stop it to potentially resolve issues. If problems persist, uninstalling and reinstalling the app may be necessary, although this may result in loss of locally stored data unless cloud backup is enabled. Users can also clear the app's data directly from the App info page. Restarting the device and checking for system updates can also help resolve app crashes. Users can sideload older versions of apps from trusted sources like APKMirror if needed. Lastly, using the app's web version can serve as a temporary solution.

AppWizard

August 21, 2026

Pixel 11 Pro Fold is changing how I multitask on a foldable with ‘App Handles’ [Gallery]

Google has introduced a new multitasking feature called "App Handles" in the Pixel 11 Pro Fold, which enhances user experience by providing a dedicated dock for floating windows. Users can drag apps to the bottom-right corner of the display to create floating windows that remain accessible while overlaying other tasks. The feature utilizes an intuitive swipe-up gesture to activate the app, allowing for easy switching between multiple apps stored in the corner. When the display is closed, apps set up as "Handles" turn into "Bubbles" on the cover display, maintaining accessibility. This functionality complements the existing side-by-side multitasking capability and offers a more organized approach to managing applications. There is potential for "App Handles" to be integrated into previous Android generations through future updates.

AppWizard

August 21, 2026

Set Up Google Play Games on PC: 12 Steps [2026]

Google Play Games Beta on PC allows users to play a selection of Android games on Windows machines, syncing with existing Play Store accounts. As of August 2026, it is in beta and available in over 100 countries, focusing on curated titles that meet Google's certification for PC compatibility. The platform features a rapid update cycle, requiring users to uninstall older versions before installing new ones. System requirements include Windows 10, a minimum of four physical CPU cores, 8GB of RAM, and an SSD with at least 10GB of free space, with hardware virtualization enabled. The installation process consists of twelve steps to confirm compatibility and download the installer. Google Play Games on PC offers a streamlined experience compared to third-party emulators like BlueStacks and LDPlayer, which allow broader access to titles but may lack the same level of certification and account synchronization.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

‘I would love that but we’re cheap and poor’: Jeff Kaplan speeds through everything players should know about his upcoming cowboy survival game, The Legend of California

Jeff Kaplan discussed Kintsugiyama's upcoming game, The Legend of California, set in gold-rush-era California around 1849. It is an open-world survival multiplayer game that combines exploration and player interaction, categorized as a first-person shooter rather than a simulation or traditional MMO. Players can engage in activities typical of a cowboy's life, such as trading, fishing, mining, and ranch building. Private servers will allow for player-versus-environment settings, while public servers can host up to 100 players, featuring competition and combat, but not building destruction. Server resets will occur monthly, changing the locations of key points of interest while retaining player unlocks. Future enhancements may include holiday events, pets, and horse breeding, with the potential for a "Toys to Life" concept. The game will undergo at least two more alpha phases before early access.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

This app does with Pixel 11 Pro’s HiLight what Google should have done in the first place

Google's Pixel 11 Pro series features a "HiLight" LED system that provides visual notifications for calls and activity during Gemini conversations. The HiLight LED is customizable through the open-source HiLight Studio app, developed by Dhananjay Bhosale. Users can sideload the app and manage permissions using Shizuku. HiLight Studio allows users to assign colors, create light patterns, and save presets for notifications. It includes six effects: Rainbow, Random, Comet, Pulse, Breathe, and Wave, with options to adjust saturation and brightness. The app respects Do Not Disturb settings and can pause during low battery. However, some users may experience conflicts with the base HiLight functionality, as noted by a user who found that the original LED notifications stopped working after installing the app.

AppWizard

August 20, 2026

A new Transformers Minecraft add-on lets you unleash chaos as both Autobots and Decepticons

A new add-on from Syclone Studios for Minecraft is now available on the Minecraft Marketplace, allowing players to take on the roles of twelve iconic Transformers characters, including Optimus Prime, Megatron, and Grimlock. This add-on expands on a previous standalone story map DLC from 2024 and offers flexible gameplay with unique vehicle transformations, abilities, and weapons for each character. Players can customize world settings to control the level of destruction caused by the Transformers and set up various PvP game modes. The add-on is priced at 1,340 Minecoins (approximately .99 / £7.99).

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Cozy photo adventure game Photo Roboto: A Timesnap Adventure announced for PC

Monomyth Games has announced the release of Photo Roboto: A Timesnap Adventure, a cozy photo adventure game featuring the Timewarp Camera, which allows players to capture images from different times. The game is set to launch on PC via Steam in 2027. Players will take on the role of Peppino, a robot aiming to earn a Timewarp Camera License while running a photography business on an Italian island. The gameplay involves exploring the island, engaging with over 100 unique characters, and solving a mystery related to a "Curse" imposed by the mayor. Players can collect new camera lenses for enhanced abilities and customize their shop and character. Key features include traversing a vibrant island, running a photography business, and delving into a scripted narrative.

Winsage

August 19, 2026

Is VLC taking an agonizingly long time to start up on Windows 11? Microsoft Defender is to blame

Users of VLC on Windows 11 have experienced delays of up to 33 seconds for MP3 playback due to a bug in Microsoft Defender that interferes with VLC's plugin cache. VideoLAN has clarified that this issue is not a reflection of VLC's reliability. Affected users can resolve the problem by adding the VLC folder as an exception in Windows Defender or by regenerating the plugin cache. Jonathan Blow, a game developer, highlighted the issue in a tweet, prompting discussions about the state of open-source software. Other users have reported similar delays, even on Windows 10. VideoLAN emphasized that the problem lies with Microsoft Defender, not with VLC itself.

BetaBeacon

August 19, 2026

Pokémon Emulator for Android: 12-Step Setup [2026]

- Android version 9.0 or newer (64-bit) is required for 3DS emulation via Azahar; 6.0+ covers GBA and most DS apps. - Snapdragon 835 or better is the documented floor for 3DS titles; Snapdragon 845+ is recommended for a smooth experience. - 4GB minimum RAM is required, with 6-8GB recommended for running multiple emulators simultaneously. - At least 4-8GB of free storage is needed for ROM dumps. - A file manager app is required to navigate to app-specific storage folders. - Own game cartridges or purchased digital copies are needed to dump ROMs legally. - A Bluetooth or USB-C controller is strongly recommended for anything past the GBA generation.