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Tech Optimizer

September 30, 2026

Do You Actually Need a Separate Antivirus, VPN and Scam Protection? McAfee’s All-in-One Plans Have You Covered

Antivirus software prevents malicious software from infiltrating devices. A VPN encrypts internet traffic, providing privacy, especially on public Wi-Fi. Scam protection tools use AI to scan for signs of fraud in texts, emails, and videos. McAfee offers bundled security plans that include antivirus, VPN, and scam protection, with higher tiers providing features like Personal Data Cleanup, credit monitoring, and identity-theft protection. Users can save over 0 in the first year by consolidating security subscriptions. Antivirus software typically costs to 0 annually, standalone scam protection apps range from to per year, and VPN access costs between to 0 annually. McAfee’s Basic plan is available for .99 for the first year for one device, while the Essential plan covers up to five devices for an additional fee. McAfee’s plans include different features based on tiers: - Basic: Covers one device with essential security tools. - Essential: Covers up to five devices with core security tools. - Premium: Unlimited devices with personal info scans. - Advanced: Unlimited devices with personal info removal and identity restoration. - Ultimate: Unlimited devices with extensive financial monitoring and identity-theft coverage. Setting up McAfee involves downloading the app, creating an account, following setup instructions, turning on the Scam Detector, configuring the VPN, and adding other devices. McAfee plans include unlimited VPN data and support multiple operating systems under a single subscription. McAfee's Scam Detector has an accuracy of over 99% and works on both iPhone and Android.

BetaBeacon

September 30, 2026

Lime3DS Setup Guide: Play Pokémon on Android [2026]

- Nintendo’s 2024 legal action against Tropic Haze, the team behind the Yuzu Switch emulator, ended with a $**.4 million settlement** and the shutdown of Yuzu. - Lime3DS rose out of the shutdown of Yuzu and Citra as a community-maintained Citra fork, but development stopped in April 2025, leading to the creation of Azahar. - Azahar is the successor project to Lime3DS, but the Android package name was not updated, causing confusion. - Azahar is the default recommendation for 3DS emulation, consolidating the scattered forks that emerged after the shutdown of Yuzu and Citra. - Azahar requires specific system files from a real Nintendo 3DS console, and users must dump their own game files legally.

BetaBeacon

September 29, 2026

Proton finds Russian and Chinese trackers in popular Android games

A study by Proton found tracker code associated with companies in China and Russia in many of the most downloaded free Android games in the US and Europe.

AppWizard

September 27, 2026

An Essential Google Maps Feature Keeps Disappearing For Some Android Auto Users

Google has introduced a speedometer feature in the Google Maps app on Android Auto, displaying current speed alongside the speed limit. Users have reported issues with the speedometer disappearing from their screens, with some having never accessed it. Other functionalities, such as real-time traffic updates and traffic light information, have also been inconsistently available. Some users have found temporary fixes by opting out of beta programs, using the latest stable versions of the apps, or clearing the cache. Currently, the speedometer is accessible only during active navigation, and Google is working on a feature for an always-on speedometer, but there is no timeline for its full rollout.

AppWizard

September 27, 2026

Android Auto 17.8 Now Available for Download for All Users

Google has begun rolling out Android Auto 17.8 for production devices, which will be available gradually through the Google Play Store. Users may receive updates in waves, and some may find their version already current. A stand-alone APK installer is also available for those seeking immediate access. The update introduces a new full-screen GameSnacks experience and restores signal bars for some users. Additionally, Google Maps has added new pop-ups for stop signs and traffic lights to enhance navigation. The full build number for this update is 17.8.6638.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

Google Maps Just Got A Useful New Traffic Lights Feature On Android Auto

Google Maps has introduced an update for Android Auto that provides pop-up notifications about upcoming intersections, including traffic lights and stop signs. This feature enhances the driving experience by transforming static map information into dynamic alerts, potentially reducing the chances of drivers missing stop signs. The update is being rolled out gradually and is also available on smartphones using Google Maps. Looking ahead to 2026, Google plans to implement features such as Gemini-powered conversational navigation, 3D route visualization, smart zoom, transparent building views, improved voice guidance, updated Street View, and enhanced route information regarding tolls and traffic conditions. Additionally, Android Auto will receive a redesign and new features in the coming months.

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

Five Ad Blocker Hacks Every Android User Should Know

Ads are prevalent on Android devices, leading users to choose between enduring them or paying for premium subscriptions. BlockAds is a free, open-source app that blocks ads on Android by creating a local VPN, filtering traffic without requiring device rooting. Users can also employ DNS filtering to block ads by changing their DNS server settings, with services like AdGuard and NextDNS available for this purpose. Firefox supports the uBlock Origin extension for ad-blocking on Android, while NewPipe allows users to watch YouTube videos ad-free and access premium features. The DuckDuckGo browser includes a built-in YouTube ad blocker, and the Brave browser automatically blocks ads and trackers without additional setup.

AppWizard

September 25, 2026

Ocean Browser , Secure Browser for Android

Ocean Browser is an Android application that provides a secure and private browsing experience by integrating advanced proxy technology, eliminating the need for separate VPN applications. It reroutes browsing traffic through its secure infrastructure, hiding users' actual IP addresses from websites. Ocean Browser offers features such as encrypted proxy connections, the ability to select proxy locations, and seamless management of proxy connections without complex settings. It is designed for everyday use, particularly on public Wi-Fi networks, and is available for free on Google Play.

Tech Optimizer

September 25, 2026

We Tested 10 Best Antivirus Software for 2026

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, with Verizon’s 2026 Data Breach Investigations Report indicating that 48% of breaches involve ransomware and 31% arise from software vulnerabilities. A review of leading antivirus programs assessed their effectiveness against various threats. Top antivirus software includes: - Bitdefender: Best overall, effective against various threats, perfect score from AV-TEST. - Norton 360: Best all-in-one suite, includes VPN and parental controls, perfect score from AV-TEST. - McAfee+ Premium: Best for families, unlimited device coverage, full marks from AV-TEST. - Malwarebytes: Best for simple protection, user-friendly interface, rated 5.5/6 by AV-TEST. - ESET NOD32: Best for advanced users, lightweight and fast, includes Gamer Mode. - Avast: Best free option, offers various scanning options, straightforward upgrade path. - Microsoft Defender: Built-in for Windows, essential protection, perfect score from AV-TEST. - Intego ONE: Best for Mac users, includes firewall and VPN. - Surfshark Antivirus: Combines antivirus and VPN services, real-time protection. - TotalAV: Best for beginners, combines antivirus with web security tools. The evaluation process included lab data from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, hands-on experience, and criteria such as malware protection, false positives, system performance impact, phishing protection, ease of use, platform coverage, additional security features, and pricing. Key metrics from antivirus lab tests include protection scores, false positives, and performance impact. The choice between antivirus software and internet security suites depends on individual needs. Antivirus software remains necessary, especially for Windows PCs, to complement other security measures.

AppWizard

September 24, 2026

Russia’s state-backed messaging app Max can secretly change how it surveils individual users, researchers at InterSecLab find

The Max messenger, developed by VK, has significant user tracking capabilities. A report from InterSecLab revealed that: - Max's features can vary for individual users without app updates. - It lacks end-to-end encryption, allowing VK access to messages, even in "secret chats." - Each account can be configured to perform specific actions, such as decrypting messages on VK's servers and blocking messages if a VPN is detected. - Upon launching, Max reports the user’s network environment to VK, including their public IP address and mobile carrier. - The app uploads users’ entire address books unencrypted to VK's servers, accessing contacts of non-registered individuals. - A phone number query can reveal extensive user information without notification. - Max stops functioning if it detects a VPN, requiring users to disable it to send messages, although workarounds exist. - New users receive a curated list of recommended channels, primarily featuring state media and pro-government figures.