tech Archives

AppWizard

July 27, 2026

My parents’ Android phones were ruined by invasive ads. Here’s how I fixed them for good

Mobile advertising on Android devices has seen a rise in deceptive pop-ups that mimic legitimate notifications or system updates, leaving many users, particularly less tech-savvy individuals, vulnerable. A personal experience highlighted this issue when a family member fell for a misleading PDF ad, leading to the installation of multiple fraudulent applications. Recently, similar deceptive ads were encountered on YouTube, raising concerns about the safety of family members who rely on their devices for important tasks. Discussions on platforms like Reddit have pointed out the prevalence of misleading ads on family-friendly platforms. The author expressed a desire to block all ads if companies cannot ensure their safety. To address the issue, the author sought an ad-blocking solution that allows for remote management and network-wide filtering, ultimately choosing NextDNS. This content filtering solution offers a free account with sufficient monthly DNS queries and supports individual profiles for tailored settings. The setup process for NextDNS involves creating profiles for each family member, allowing for distinct settings and blocklists, and configuring devices with the provided DNS-over-TLS endpoint details. While NextDNS is effective, it does not eliminate all ads, particularly those from platforms like YouTube, indicating that additional measures may be necessary for comprehensive security. Regularly reviewing app permissions and uninstalling unnecessary applications are also recommended for enhancing security.

Winsage

July 27, 2026

Stop putting off that Windows 11 Pro upgrade — it’s only $9.97 through 8/2

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, down from its original price of 9, until August 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Windows 10 will reach the end of its standard support in October 2025. Windows 11 Pro includes features such as BitLocker, Remote Desktop, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox, and has a rating of 4/5 from PC Magazine and TechRadar.

Winsage

July 27, 2026

You heard wrong, Microsoft isn’t ending pirated Windows 11 with TPM, and the new rule only affects enterprise KMS servers

On July 22, Microsoft announced the KMS Hardware-Secured requirement, linking Windows volume activation servers to a TPM chip. This initiative is aimed at organizations using Key Management Service (KMS) servers to enhance security by ensuring that KMS hosts verify their identity and integrity through the TPM before activating Windows machines. The motivation behind this requirement is to prevent unauthorized activation methods that exploit fake KMS servers. Organizations are advised to ensure their KMS hosts are certified and that TPM is enabled. The KMS Hardware-Secured measures do not target individual users with pirated copies of Windows, as most current piracy methods do not involve KMS servers. Microsoft has not pursued legal action against minor piracy instances, focusing instead on maintaining user engagement through subscriptions and services.

AppWizard

July 27, 2026

Ubisoft says the Black Flag remake has exceeded ‘annual expectations’ in just two weeks, shortly after it laid off a number of the people who made it

Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced sold 2 million copies within 24 hours of its release. Ubisoft's CEO, Yves Guillemot, stated that the game exceeded annual expectations within two weeks and is the highest-rated entry in the franchise since the original Black Flag. The game was developed with significant contributions from Ubisoft Barcelona, particularly in the underwater levels. Despite its success, the launch occurred amidst recent layoffs at Ubisoft, affecting hundreds of employees. Player reception has been mostly positive, but some critiques have emerged regarding day-one downloadable content, simplified swordfights, and an in-game shop. A review by PC Gamer described the game as "a well-made, but inessential remake that loses more than it gains."

Winsage

July 27, 2026

Hate the Copilot Key? Here’s How to Disable It Completely

In 2024, the introduction of the Copilot key on Windows PCs replaced the Right Control (Ctrl) key on many laptops, leading to user complaints about disrupted workflows and the loss of keyboard shortcuts. In response to the backlash, Microsoft is preparing to implement a "kill switch" for the Copilot key, allowing users to revert it back to its original function or disable it entirely. Users will soon be able to remap the key through Settings, and the option to disable it was not previously available. Microsoft acknowledged the challenges faced by users who relied on the Right Ctrl key and noted significant disruptions to workflows. While disabling the Copilot key may become straightforward, completely turning off Copilot is more complex, requiring users to avoid launching the Microsoft Copilot app for 28 days. Microsoft has also indicated a need to remove Copilot from applications where it does not perform well, following the removal of Copilot from several ineffective Windows 11 applications.

Winsage

July 26, 2026

Are you the family’s tech support? This Windows security checklist helped put an end to late night panic texts.

- A text message from the author's father prompted a discussion about using a password manager for cybersecurity. - The author's mother had a previous concern about an unexpected "tech support" notification on her computer. - The author created a cybersecurity best practices document to help their parents and others with technology. - Key security vulnerabilities to address include enabling Windows Hello, ensuring Windows Update is running, confirming Windows Defender is on, and turning on the 'Find my Device' feature. - One-time security measures recommended are switching from a local account to a Microsoft account with two-factor authentication, enabling device encryption, switching from a Windows 11 Administrator account to a Standard account, and using a password manager. - Good cybersecurity habits include learning to spot phishing scams, being cautious of unsolicited tech support calls, and avoiding the installation of unsolicited software.

Winsage

July 26, 2026

How I stopped being my parents’ emergency IT hotline — The complete list of Windows Security settings I made them fix once and for all

A family member inquired about the necessity of a password manager, reflecting growing cybersecurity concerns. A parent received a suspicious "tech support" message, indicating potential security risks. Windows Hello allows users to log in with a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition on Windows 11 PCs. Users can set it up via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Regular updates through Windows Update are essential for security, and users can check their status in Settings > Windows Update. Windows Defender is the built-in antivirus for Windows 11, typically enabled by default, but users should verify its status in Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection. The 'Find My Device' feature can be enabled in Settings > Privacy & security > Find my device to track and lock a lost or stolen laptop. Switching from a local account to a Microsoft account with two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances security, accessible via Settings > Accounts > Your info. Device encryption can protect sensitive data, available in Settings > Privacy & security > Device encryption for Home versions and BitLocker for Pro versions. Using a Standard account instead of an Administrator account reduces malware risks, managed through Settings > Accounts > Family. Password managers like NordPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden help generate strong, unique passwords for accounts. Users should learn to spot phishing scams, be cautious of unsolicited tech support calls, and avoid installing software suggested by unknown callers to maintain cybersecurity.

AppWizard

July 26, 2026

These are the first 5 apps I’d install on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 features an 8-inch unfolded display, making it a versatile tool for work and entertainment. The app categories that benefit most from the foldable's big screen are as follows: Reading (67%), Productivity and notes (17%), Video and streaming (17%), Maps and navigation (0%), Gaming (0%), and Other (0%). Key apps highlighted for the Fold 8 Ultra include: - Obsidian: Enhances project management with a desktop-like experience, allowing simultaneous viewing of notes and research. - Inoreader: An RSS reader that consolidates news consumption, utilizing dual-pane support for article lists and reading. - YouTube: Improved video browsing and multitasking capabilities, with features like Flex Mode for hands-free viewing. - Kindle: Offers a better reading experience with side-by-side page viewing, reducing eye strain. - Komoot: Optimized for outdoor navigation, allowing easier map viewing and route planning on a larger screen.

Winsage

July 26, 2026

Microsoft is using TPM chips to crack down on pirated Windows activations

Microsoft has mandated the inclusion of the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) as a standard feature in all new motherboards and CPUs to enhance the Windows activation process. The company has introduced an enhancement to its Key Management Service (KMS) that leverages TPM's security capabilities to authenticate the legitimacy of KMS servers. This new "TPM-based attestation" aims to mitigate exploitation risks associated with KMS by validating the cryptographic integrity of KMS servers. Starting in August 2026, TPM-based attestation will be required for KMS activation with the next release of Windows Server. Microsoft has also closed off the "KMS38" activation method in 2025, while traditional KMS activation remains functional. The Massgrave collective has developed an Online KMS method that may be impacted by the new TPM-based attestation.

Winsage

July 25, 2026

Today in Apple history: Windows scores big victory over Mac

On July 25, 1989, Apple faced a legal defeat against Microsoft in a copyright infringement lawsuit concerning the "look and feel" of the Macintosh and Windows operating system. Apple filed 189 counts of infringement related to Windows 2.0.3, but the judge dismissed 179 of these claims, allowing Windows to grow rapidly. The origins of the conflict began when Microsoft proposed a licensing agreement to Apple in 1985, which was rejected. Following this, Microsoft launched Windows 1.0 in November 1985, leading to tensions as Windows 2.0 more closely resembled the Macintosh interface. Apple filed a lawsuit on March 17, 1988, claiming copyright violations. The judge ruled that the existing licensing agreement covered many elements of Windows, contributing to a long-standing rivalry between the two companies and establishing a legal foundation for Windows' dominance in the 1990s.