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Windows 11 hides a Windows 7 folder that beats the Settings app, and I use it every day
Winsage
October 11, 2026

Windows 11 hides a Windows 7 folder that beats the Settings app, and I use it every day

The "God Mode" folder in Windows is a hidden feature that provides a streamlined solution to navigating settings by offering an organized index within a single folder. Users can create this folder by right-clicking on the desktop, creating a new folder, and renaming it to "GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}". This transforms the folder icon to resemble the Control Panel, allowing quick access to various settings. The folder can be pinned to the Start menu or Quick Access for easier accessibility. It serves as a useful tool for users who frequently adjust settings, making tasks like managing USB settings or adjusting processor state limits more efficient.
Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL now supports direct querying of Apache Iceberg and Parquet data in your data lake
Tech Optimizer
October 11, 2026

Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL now supports direct querying of Apache Iceberg and Parquet data in your data lake

Amazon has introduced a new capability for Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL that allows users to query operational data alongside data stored in data lakes formatted in Apache Iceberg and Apache Parquet. This feature enables direct access to Iceberg REST Catalog-compatible catalogs, eliminating the need for data duplication or relocation. The integration of DuckDB within Aurora PostgreSQL allows users to query live operational data, including uncommitted writes, alongside data from data lakes using standard PostgreSQL syntax. This capability is available on Aurora PostgreSQL versions 17 (starting with 17.11) and 18 (starting with 18.6). Users must create an Aurora PostgreSQL cluster, attach an IAM role with the AuroraAnalytics feature, and enable the aurora_analytics extension to utilize this feature. They can create foreign tables referencing Iceberg or Parquet data in the data lake, and query them using familiar PostgreSQL commands. Aurora optimizes query performance through techniques like predicate pushdown and column pruning, and users can monitor query behavior with metrics provided by aurora_analytics_stat_statements(). Direct querying of Apache Iceberg and Parquet data is available across all commercial AWS Regions and AWS GovCloud (US) Regions without additional charges, aside from incremental Aurora compute and Amazon S3 request costs.
Best antivirus for Windows PC in 2026: 7 apps to keep your PC safe
Tech Optimizer
October 10, 2026

Best antivirus for Windows PC in 2026: 7 apps to keep your PC safe

Robust antivirus software is essential due to the rise of sophisticated online threats, including AI-driven attacks. Various antivirus solutions for Windows include: - Norton: Comprehensive protection with a user-friendly interface. - Avast: Easy to use, ideal for straightforward experiences. - AVG: Budget-friendly without compromising essential features. - Avira Prime: Simple and effective for beginners. - McAfee: Focuses on privacy and safeguarding personal information. - Panda: Offers a wide range of features for comprehensive security. - Windows Security: A free option providing basic protection. Key features to consider in antivirus software include strong protection against malware, user-friendly interfaces, performance impact on systems, and additional tools like parental controls and VPNs. Norton 360 Deluxe includes parental controls and cloud storage, while Avast One is noted for its simplicity. AVG Internet Security is cost-effective, and Avira Prime offers beginner-friendly features. McAfee Total Protection emphasizes privacy but may be pricier.
Spiritfarer dev's next game, At Fate's End, is one of the prettiest things I've ever seen
AppWizard
October 8, 2026

Spiritfarer dev’s next game, At Fate’s End, is one of the prettiest things I’ve ever seen

At Fate's End is a new game from the creators of Spiritfarer that combines visual novel elements with action-adventure gameplay. The protagonist, Shan Hemlock, is designated as the Princess of Swords and embarks on a quest to gather her family's blades using force or diplomacy. The game features stunning hand-drawn animations and a card system that allows players to gain new abilities with both benefits and drawbacks. Combat involves positioning-based battles and a skill tree, while exploration includes traversing the Hemlock estate and engaging in conversations to uncover family truths. Players will also experience brief skirmishes that unlock skill points or advance the storyline. The game is set to be released in 2027.
Microsoft Windows and Surface event
Winsage
October 8, 2026

Microsoft Windows and Surface event

A new initiative has been introduced to simplify the purchasing process by enhancing customer experience. Key components include: - Customers will provide essential location details: state, zip code, and country. - A dropdown menu will allow customers to select their state, reducing input errors. - The zip code input field will accommodate a maximum of seven characters for ease of entry. - A clear label will guide customers to specify their country, aiding in service customization. This redesign aims to improve user experience and operational efficiency.
5 reasons I'd buy the Pixel 11 Pro over any other Android phone right now
AppWizard
October 7, 2026

5 reasons I’d buy the Pixel 11 Pro over any other Android phone right now

The Pixel 11 Pro features a streamlined approach with minimal bloatware, offering essential first-party apps for a better user experience. It provides day-one software updates, ensuring longevity and relevance for older models. The integration of Gemini AI enhances usability, while features like Magic Capture and legacy tools improve convenience. Its camera system is notable for high-resolution sensors and natural color reproduction, appealing to photography enthusiasts. The design prioritizes user comfort with a premium build and ergonomic features, although the Tensor G6 processor's performance is not the main highlight. Overall, the Pixel 11 Pro combines impressive camera capabilities, extensive software support, and a user-friendly design.
Here's how readers sideload APKs on their Android phones in 2026
AppWizard
October 7, 2026

Here’s how readers sideload APKs on their Android phones in 2026

In mid-August, Google implemented sideloading restrictions on Android devices, introducing warnings and a 24-hour wait timer for installing apps from third-party sources. A reader poll with over 1,800 participants revealed that over 63% prefer manually downloading APK files directly from platforms like GitHub. Only 20.7% use alternative app stores, while 16% do not engage in sideloading and only use the Google Play Store. F-Droid is not recognized as a verified third-party app store by Google, but it is noted for its ease of use.
Microsoft might bring Windows XP's 3D Pinball to Windows 11, as Windows boss puts it on the list
Winsage
October 6, 2026

Microsoft might bring Windows XP’s 3D Pinball to Windows 11, as Windows boss puts it on the list

Microsoft's Windows chief, Pavan Davuluri, acknowledged a fan's request for the return of 3D Pinball during the Inside Windows podcast. While he noted that 3D Pinball is part of a "matrix for things to think about," he clarified that no team is currently working on reviving the game, nor is it planned for Windows 11. The absence of 3D Pinball is attributed to technical challenges during the transition to 64-bit Windows. The nostalgia for classic Windows games has been highlighted, with a desire to incorporate more engaging features into Windows 11. Microsoft has an upcoming event on October 7, which may present an opportunity for surprises, though there is no indication that 3D Pinball will be featured.
The Google app could soon get a cleaner, more organized settings page, and here's your first look
AppWizard
October 6, 2026

The Google app could soon get a cleaner, more organized settings page, and here’s your first look

Google is redesigning the settings page for its Google app to improve usability and accessibility. The new layout will transition from a list format to a card-based design, categorizing settings under labels like Your App Experience and Privacy & Safety. Key features such as Search personalization and SafeSearch will be more prominently displayed on the main settings screen. The redesign will follow Google's Material 3 Expressive design language, but it differs from a similar initiative for the Gemini app. The release timeline for the new settings page is currently uncertain.
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