subscription models Archives

Winsage

June 16, 2025

Goverments are ditching Windows and Microsoft Office — new letter reveals the “real costs of switching to Windows 11”

Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11, which has higher hardware requirements that may render many existing PCs obsolete. The Document Foundation criticizes Microsoft's push for Windows 11, suggesting it increases reliance on Microsoft services and raises costs due to subscription models. Users express frustration over the mandatory Microsoft account for Windows 11, and a petition warns that the end of Windows 10 support could lead to many discarded computers. Alternatives like Linux and LibreOffice are presented as viable options, with Linux being compatible with older PCs that ran Windows 10. Users are advised to test Linux on a secondary partition to evaluate compatibility and workflow needs.

Winsage

June 13, 2025

With support for Windows 10 ending, LibreOffice creator thinks you should switch to Linux instead of Windows 11

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, prompting users to consider upgrading to Windows 11, sticking with Windows 10, or switching to Linux. The Document Foundation (TDF) advocates for migrating to a Linux distribution as a cost-effective solution, arguing that the transition to Windows 11 involves hidden costs and is driven by Microsoft's interests in promoting cloud services and subscription models. TDF promotes LibreOffice as a viable alternative to Microsoft Office, highlighting its compatibility with Microsoft formats. They encourage Windows users to adopt Linux and LibreOffice for greater user freedom, community support, and transparency, free from licensing fees and invasive telemetry. TDF expresses disappointment over Microsoft's decision to phase out Windows 10 and suggests that users view this change as an opportunity for a new computing era. They recommend steps for transitioning to Linux and LibreOffice, including testing the software on a separate partition and hiring a consultant for migration assistance.

AppWizard

June 8, 2025

I used a self-hosted app to track all my receipts and it’s shockingly good

Receipt Wrangler is a self-hosted tool for managing receipts that offers a straightforward installation process and an intuitive user interface. It allows users to rename, tag, group, and search receipts easily, creating a consistent and searchable archive. The app prioritizes user experience by placing essential functions prominently and supports flexible tagging systems for personalized organization. Receipt Wrangler can connect to self-hosted AI models or external services for automatic scanning and tagging of receipts. Its self-hosting feature ensures data security and ownership, allowing users to back up their information as needed. The tool has transformed the receipt management process into a more efficient and enjoyable experience, encouraging timely filing and reducing procrastination.

AppWizard

June 8, 2025

Gamers, let’s not pretend PS Plus and Xbox Game Pass multiplayer subscriptions are okay – they’re exactly why PC gaming is arguably cheaper in the long term

Transitioning from console gaming to PC gaming involves challenges such as file management and technical adjustments, but it offers benefits like no multiplayer subscription fees. Console gamers often need to subscribe to services like Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus for online play, with exceptions for free-to-play games. While gaming PC hardware is more expensive initially, the long-term costs of playing games are lower due to access to affordable titles and frequent discounts on platforms like the Epic Games Store and Steam. In contrast, PlayStation games often retain their retail prices longer, limiting discount availability. The basic PS Plus plan costs .99 annually, similar to the price of a new game, while the 'Premium' plan costs 9.99 and lacks day-one title access. Xbox Game Pass offers better value with new games available on release day. Overall, while the initial investment in a gaming PC is high, the savings on games and lack of subscription fees make it a worthwhile choice.

Winsage

June 7, 2025

If you’re sick of software subscriptions, check this out

A Microsoft Office Pro lifetime license is available for .97, significantly reduced from its usual price of 9.99. This license includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. It allows installation on a single Windows PC and is tied to the device rather than a Microsoft account. The software supports all languages, includes complimentary customer support, and provides updates at no extra cost.

Winsage

May 2, 2025

20% off Windows 365 expires as Windows 10 support ends

Microsoft has reduced the price of Windows 365 and is encouraging Windows 10 users to consider this option as support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program allows users to receive security patches for a fee, starting at £35.60 per device per month in the UK, with costs doubling in subsequent years. Windows 365 provides access to a Windows 11 Cloud PC and offers a 20 percent discount for first-time users. Windows 365 currently costs £35.60 per user per month in the UK, €41.40 in the EU, and a similar amount in the US. Recent data shows Windows 10 holds 52.94 percent of the market share, while Windows 11 is at 43.72 percent. The offer for Windows 365 concludes on October 31, 2025.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

Jim Rossman: Do you really need separate antivirus software? Probably not

A conversation between two friends during a workout revealed insights into personal computing and cybersecurity. One friend was considering purchasing a new Windows PC and evaluating updated antivirus software after using a well-known suite for over a decade. He expressed concerns about the annual subscription model of his previous antivirus, feeling it was a recurring expense without a tangible return. The other friend informed him about the trend of one-time purchase antivirus software, which offers robust protection without ongoing fees, alleviating financial pressure and allowing users to maintain control over their software choices. Key points discussed included the cost-effectiveness of one-time purchases, flexibility in choosing or upgrading software, and enhanced features in newer antivirus programs.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Latest Market Trends for Android TV App Development in 2025

The smart TV market is projected to grow from USD 225.43 billion in 2023 to USD 252.41 billion in 2024, reaching USD 623.62 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.97% from 2024 to 2032. This growth is driven by increased global internet penetration and better access to high-speed broadband, allowing consumers to stream content on smart TVs. The rising popularity of smart TVs is attributed to the convenience of accessing various applications for streaming, gaming, and fitness. Businesses are investing in smart Android TV app development to engage customers effectively, as audiences spend more time on screens. Key trends in Android TV app development for 2025 include the use of AI and ML for personalized experiences, AR and VR for immersive interactions, 5G technology for enhanced performance, instant apps for improved user experience, cross-platform development, on-demand applications, and blockchain technology for security. The cost of developing an Android TV app ranges from ,000 to ,000, depending on complexity, with more intricate applications potentially exceeding 0,000.

AppWizard

March 22, 2025

All Xbox and PC Game pass subscription models | Esports News – The Times of India

Xbox Game Pass offers various subscription plans for gamers: - Xbox Game Pass Core: .99/month for Xbox consoles, provides access to a rotating selection of over 25 games, including titles like Doom Eternal and Fallout 4, focusing on multiplayer experiences. - Xbox Game Pass Standard: .99/month for Xbox consoles, offers full access to the entire game library, including RPGs and the latest releases, along with exclusive offers and discounts. - PC Game Pass: .99/month for PC platforms, includes the full catalog of PC games and access to EA Play, featuring franchises like FIFA and The Sims. - Xbox Game Pass Ultimate: .99/month for both Xbox consoles and PC platforms, combines features of all other plans, offers day-one access to new releases, and includes online multiplayer and EA Play. The recently introduced Xbox Game Pass Standard plan for console users is priced at .99/month and offers benefits similar to the Ultimate plan but does not include access to the PC Game Pass library.

AppWizard

February 23, 2025

Flixfox App: Your Free Gateway to Endless Entertainment on Android

The Flixfox App is a free Android application that allows users to access a wide selection of movies and TV shows without ads or complex subscription models. It requires Android version 7.1 or newer, at least 50MB of free storage, and a stable internet connection with a recommended speed of 5Mbps. To install the app, users must enable Unknown Sources in their device settings, download the APK from the official website, and follow the installation steps. Users can create an account using social media logins, email, or mobile number registration, providing details like username, age, and gender for personalized recommendations. Key features of Flixfox include an extensive content library, HD streaming, and personalized recommendations. The app prioritizes user security through advanced encryption and does not store payment details. Flixfox offers a Basic Plan with limited access and advertisements, and a Premium Plan for a fee that includes exclusive content, ad-free viewing, and additional features. Pricing for the Premium Plan ranges from .99 monthly to .99 annually.