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Tech Optimizer

May 11, 2025

Mac users once skipped antivirus software — here’s why that’s no longer a good idea

In 2024, 22 new Mac malware families emerged, up from 13 in 2022, indicating a rise in malware targeting macOS. Built-in security features include XProtect, which warns users about known malicious software; Gatekeeper, which prevents the installation of unsigned software; Sandboxing, which isolates applications to prevent unauthorized changes; Lockdown Mode, which restricts app functionality to protect user data; Safari protections against phishing and tracking; and password security measures that alert users about weak or compromised passwords. While Apple's built-in protections are robust, third-party antivirus software may provide additional security layers. Users are advised to practice good security habits, keep software updated, avoid unverified apps, and use a VPN on public Wi-Fi.

Winsage

May 11, 2025

Microsoft Build 2025: What to expect from Copilot, Windows 11 and AI agents

Microsoft's commitment to artificial intelligence and its Copilot initiative is ongoing, with a focus on AI at the upcoming Microsoft Build developer conference from May 19 to 22. The conference will highlight AI, which has become a central theme in recent years. CEO Satya Nadella and CTO Kevin Scott will host the opening keynote, available for viewing on the Build website, with real-time updates provided by Engadget. This year, discussions are expected to include the integration of AI agents into the Windows 11 Settings app, enhancements to File Explorer for easier file management, and upgrades to the start menu for app discovery. A notable feature for Copilot, called Copilot Vision, will allow the AI assistant to observe user activities and engage in relevant dialogue, with an expanded version teased for desktop environments. In March 2025, Microsoft introduced a "Researcher" tool within Copilot for Microsoft 365 subscribers, enabling research aggregation from various sources. There has been no announcement regarding its availability for free users, but potential plans may be revealed at Build 2025. Additionally, updates on Azure, .NET, and GitHub will be part of the conference agenda.

Tech Optimizer

May 10, 2025

Databricks looks to buy database startup Neon for over $1B

Databricks is in advanced talks to acquire Neon, a startup that provides a commercial version of the open-source PostgreSQL database, with the deal valued at over billion. Neon, based in San Francisco, has raised more than million from investors, including Microsoft's M12 fund. Neon’s PostgreSQL version features a serverless architecture, automatic hardware scaling, separate allocation of storage and computing power, and connection pooling to enhance performance. Neon also offers a security tool for user access management and the ability to restore databases to previous states. Databricks' interest in Neon is likely linked to AI applications, as Neon’s database supports vector storage and can launch new database instances in one second. Databricks has previously acquired several startups to enhance its AI capabilities, including Fennel AI, Lilac AI, and MosaicML Inc.

AppWizard

May 10, 2025

Weekend PC Download Deals for May 9: Sus

Among Us 3D was launched this week on PC by Schell Games, offering a new perspective on the classic game, available at a discounted price for the weekend. Blizzard is providing various deals, while Epic Games Store features exclusive titles and offers. Fanatical allows users to build their own Bethesda Bundle with select titles for specific prices. Gamebillet, Gamersgate, GamesPlanet, GOG.com, and Green Man Gaming are all offering competitive deals and discounts. Humble Bundle has a subscription option for .99 per month with various game offerings and tiered bundles. Ubisoft is running a promotion with a coupon code for discounts. Steam continues to offer a vast library and frequent sales.

AppWizard

May 10, 2025

Weekend PC Game Deals: Paradox specials, Xbox and bullet hell bundles, and much more

Humble has released an updated Choice bundle for May, featuring eight titles: The Thaumaturge, Amnesia: The Bunker, Evil West, Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, STAR WARS: Bounty Hunter, Ultros, and Corpse Keeper, available until June 3. Humble has also partnered with Microsoft to offer a bundle with two tiers, including games like Sunset Overdrive and Wasteland 3. Additionally, there is a 9-game collection focused on bullet hell games, priced at . The Epic Games Store is offering Deadtime Defenders and Touch Type Tale for free until May 15. Various discounts are available from publishers like Paradox and the GOG store, featuring DRM-free games. Availability and pricing may vary by region.

Winsage

May 10, 2025

I made my Windows Terminal exactly the way I want it, and it’s hard to go back to GUI apps

The author has been using Linux, specifically Ubuntu Server, for over a decade for cloud deployments, game server management, and media streaming. They primarily use a MacBook for daily tasks but also require Windows for gaming on a main PC, utilizing Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). The author has configured Windows Terminal to manage multiple command-line shells, including Windows PowerShell, Command Prompt, and WSL, all within a single application. Windows Terminal is pre-installed on Windows 11 version 22H2 or later and can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store for earlier versions. The author's Windows Terminal setup opens a WSL environment by default and includes options for Command Prompt, PowerShell, and Developer Command Prompts. They have customized their experience by removing trailing whitespace when pasting, organizing tab order, hiding the title bar, and using a Dark theme with the Monokai Remastered color scheme and JetBrains Mono font. The WSL configuration is set to access an Ubuntu terminal directly. Windows Terminal allows the author to connect to Proxmox hosts or virtual machines via SSH and supports multiple tabs for managing different systems. It features a "Quake" mode for quick command execution and the ability to create automated tools with keyboard shortcuts. The author plans to explore adding SSH profiles for easier server connections.

Winsage

May 10, 2025

Microsoft’s next Windows update isn’t at all what users were searching for

Microsoft's Bing search engine has a market share of 3.89%, while Google holds 90%. Users of Windows 11 have criticized the built-in search for its slow performance and irrelevant results. Giorgio Sardo, Microsoft's Vice President of App Store and Apps, announced an upcoming update that will integrate the Microsoft Store into Windows Search, allowing users to find and install apps directly from the Start menu or Taskbar. However, this update may not address the main issues of search performance and relevance, as it could add recommended apps to existing search results. Community feedback has been largely negative, with users expressing frustration over the search functionality. There is no official timeline for the feature's implementation, but it is expected to be released "soon."

Winsage

May 10, 2025

Best Windows apps this week

Windows 11, version 24H2 has officially rolled out, but some devices may face installation issues due to unresolved problems. This week features discounts on various apps, with users encouraged to check the Store for offers. BleachBit 5.0 has been updated, enhancing its functionality as a temporary file cleaner and secure file deleter, while discontinuing support for Windows 7 and earlier versions and addressing several DLL vulnerabilities. Sucrose is a new open-source wallpaper tool for Windows that allows users to download animated wallpapers or create their own, including transforming websites into dynamic wallpapers. Winhance 5 is a free utility for customizing Windows, allowing changes to system settings and removal of system apps, with a more intuitive graphical user interface compared to its predecessor.

AppWizard

May 9, 2025

These dangerous Android apps are installed 2.5 million times each month

Kaleidoscope is an ad-fraud attack targeting Android users by exploiting legitimate applications on the Google Play Store and offering malicious duplicates through third-party app stores. Approximately 2.5 million devices are affected monthly, with 20% of incidents occurring in India, and other impacted regions include Indonesia, the Philippines, and Brazil. Users unknowingly download legitimate-looking apps while malicious versions circulate elsewhere, leading to intrusive advertisements that disrupt user experience and generate revenue for cybercriminals. Google has removed flagged titles from the Play Store and is enhancing protections, but ad resellers often fail to properly vet their inventory. The adware causes device overheating, rapid battery drain, and sluggish performance, highlighting the need for user vigilance.

Winsage

May 9, 2025

How to upgrade your ‘incompatible’ Windows 10 PC to Windows 11

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 unless users enroll in the Extended Security Updates program. Upgrading to Windows 11 may be difficult for PCs older than five or six years due to strict compatibility requirements, including a CPU on the approved list and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. Users may encounter error messages if their hardware does not meet these criteria. There are workarounds for some users, particularly those with PCs designed for Windows 10, but older devices, especially with AMD processors, may face significant challenges. To upgrade, users must ensure their PC is configured to start with UEFI, supports Secure Boot, and has an enabled TPM. A registry edit can allow bypassing CPU checks and accepting older TPM versions. Alternatively, a clean installation of Windows 11 can be performed using installation media, which bypasses CPU compatibility checks but still requires TPM and Secure Boot support. Microsoft has introduced new restrictions with the Windows 11 version 24H2 update, requiring CPUs to support specific instructions (SSE4.2 and PopCnt). For those opting to use the Rufus utility to create installation media, it is essential to use version 4.6 or later to bypass compatibility checks. Users must download the Windows 11 ISO, prepare a USB drive, and follow specific steps to initiate the upgrade process.