tools Archives

BetaBeacon

September 24, 2026

Instead of helping you disconnect, Digital Wellbeing could soon expand into games

Google is working on a major update for its Digital Wellbeing app, which may include a flag trivia mini-game. The app is also getting a new interface for configuring screen time reminders, allowing users to select individual apps for reminders.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

uBlock Origin finally broke for me on Microsoft Edge, so I switched to Brave

Microsoft Edge users recently experienced a significant change as advertisements flooded the interface following the discontinuation of support for the uBlock Origin ad-blocking extension. This shift resulted from the transition away from Manifest Version 2 (MV2) extensions to Manifest Version 3 (MV3), which diminishes the effectiveness of ad blockers. As a result, users are considering alternative solutions or switching browsers. Brave has emerged as a viable option, maintaining support for MV2 extensions and offering effective ad-blocking features through its Brave Shields. Users can selectively block elements easily, although it lacks some features of uBlock Origin. The author plans to use Brave Shields for browsing while keeping the option to revert to uBlock Origin if needed.

Tech Optimizer

September 24, 2026

The Best Small Business Cybersecurity Suites for 2026

A small business is typically defined as one where the owner can personally name all employees, usually comprising a workforce of a few dozen. Licensing options for IT protection for small businesses vary, with Malwarebytes and Norton covering up to 20 devices, ESET offering plans for five to 25 devices, and Bitdefender providing options for three, five, ten, or 25 users. Avast and AVG allow licenses for one to 999 devices. All security suites support Windows, and most, except AVG, also support Mac devices. Four suites offer protection for Android and iOS devices, while Avast and AVG do not support mobile devices. Bitdefender, ESET, and Norton provide dedicated server editions, while Avast and AVG allow individual policy definitions for servers. Remote installation features vary in reliability, but all suites enable administrators to manage installations and monitor device status. Norton offers backup solutions and 500GB of shared hosted storage, while firewall protection is standard except for Malwarebytes. Bitdefender and ESET provide anti-theft systems for lost devices, and both ESET and Avast have measures against unauthorized device access. Malwarebytes and Norton offer 24/7 priority support, and Norton provides dark web monitoring for sensitive information.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Google’s classic ‘Text’ app is now an Android app for Googlebook on the Play Store

Chrome Unboxed offers a membership called Chrome Unboxed Plus, providing an ad-free experience and access to a private Discord community. Google has introduced a new "Text" editor app for Googlebook OS, available on the Google Play Store, which features broad syntax highlighting, a multi-file tabbed interface, large-screen desktop navigation, and standard code tools. This app is designed to be a lightweight, distraction-free text editor optimized for various screen sizes, including foldable and smartphone formats, and may eventually be extended to the broader Android ecosystem.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Survival RPG Everwind introduces a Minecraft-style sandbox mode in major new update

Everwind's latest update, Winds of Creation, introduces a sandbox mode that allows players to explore creativity without survival constraints. The update enhances the game with new features such as a revamped starting island for Arcanists, Wolverine-style claws for melee combat, and a Steamer Localizer device for locating points of interest. It also includes quality-of-life improvements like health and stamina restoration upon leveling up, streamlined item placement, and refreshed item icons and enemy names. The update is available as of September 24, and future developments are planned, including inter-ship teleportation and modding support.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

One $32.97 purchase gets you Windows 11 Pro and the full Office suite for life

The bundle includes a Microsoft Office Pro license for permanent installation of applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, OneNote, Publisher, and Access on a single PC, with Publisher support ending after October 2026. It also features Windows 11 Pro, which includes tools like BitLocker for data security, Remote Desktop for remote access, Hyper-V for running virtual machines, Snap Layouts for multitasking, and the Copilot feature for managing quick actions from the taskbar.

BetaBeacon

September 24, 2026

Qualcomm’s New Mobile Chip Could Make 2027 Android Phones Better At Gaming And On-Device AI

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chips can process more AI features on the phone itself, making responses quicker and keeping more data on the device. The Extreme chip's AI processor has 50% more memory to handle tasks independently, and the graphics chip includes AI-dedicated cores for gaming. The chip allows for 8K video recording at 60 frames per second and 4K slow motion at 240 frames per second. Manufacturers have the option to choose between the Extreme chip for advanced features or a standard chip for more budget-friendly smartphones.

Winsage

September 24, 2026

Microsoft tried to ban “Microslop,” and six months later it has given up

Microsoft has lifted its ban on the term "Microslop" in its official Copilot Discord server, which was initially blocked due to its use as a critical nickname for the company in response to its AI features. The term gained popularity around late 2025, leading to significant user frustration and the development of a browser extension to replace "Microsoft" with "Microslop." By March 2026, messages containing the term were being filtered in the Discord, prompting users to find ways around the restrictions. Microsoft later clarified that the filtering was a temporary anti-spam measure. Discontent with Copilot had been growing prior to this, with backlash against Windows chief Pavan Davuluri's comments about AI integration. In March, Davuluri announced a more intentional integration of Copilot, leading to changes such as the removal of the Copilot button from the Snipping Tool and the rebranding of features in Notepad. Microsoft also ceased the auto-installation of the Microsoft 365 Copilot app and promised a less cluttered user interface. The Copilot key has become customizable, although some users are frustrated by changes to the Copilot logo. Despite improvements, user backlash persists, with some expressing a desire for the "old Copilot." Microsoft is shifting from overt branding of AI features to a more integrated approach in user experience.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

6 ways Android Enterprise is evolving for the modern workforce

In modern workplaces, the balance between innovation and security is crucial as employees seek access to advanced technology while IT departments protect sensitive data. Android is enhancing its tools for workers through Android Enterprise, with key advancements expected by 2026, including: 1. Advanced AI agents and controls: - Smarter workflows will introduce next-generation AI agents with enterprise-grade controls. - The evolution of Gemini will enable management of complex workflows using real-time context, eliminating manual app switching. - Built-in safeguards will ensure work profile isolation, preventing personal agents from accessing corporate data. - Administrators will have granular control to configure or disable AI automation through Android Enterprise. 2. Next-gen manageable XR devices: - New hardware like the XREAL Aura wired glasses will enhance workforce capabilities. - IT administrators will manage a range of XR devices alongside standard mobile fleets using Enterprise Mobility Management consoles. - Employees will benefit from hands-free productivity with integrated displays, audio, and AI assistance while connected to enterprise tools.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

How I found tinnitus relief with free Android apps – and finally got some sleep

Two Android applications have been identified as helpful for tinnitus relief: one focuses on tonal therapy and the other on ambient sound generation. Both apps are free, with optional premium features. Tonal therapy involves using tailored sound frequencies to disrupt abnormal neural activity associated with tinnitus. Users must identify the pitch of their tinnitus, generate therapy tones, and play them in a staggered sequence. The Tonal Tinnitus Therapy app requires consistent use, with many users reporting significant symptom reduction over time. It offers a free version and a one-time purchase option for unlimited access. Recommended usage includes listening for at least four hours daily, starting with short sessions. The ambient noise generator app, such as Ambience: Sleep Sounds, creates soothing backgrounds to mask tinnitus sounds. It offers a variety of calming sounds and has both free and premium versions. Users can create personalized sound mixes to aid sleep, and reliance on the ambient generator may decrease as tonal therapy takes effect.