usage Archives

AppWizard

September 8, 2026

Are Free VPNs for Android Actually Worth Using

A free VPN for Android can improve internet privacy, especially on untrusted networks, but it has limitations, such as not guaranteeing complete anonymity or security. The VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the device and the server, protecting traffic from local monitoring but not ensuring overall security if poorly implemented. Changing your IP address does not guarantee anonymity, as account logins and tracking technologies can still identify users. Free VPNs may be suitable for low-risk tasks, like occasional browsing on public Wi-Fi, but they do not protect against malware or phishing. Providers often rely on alternative revenue sources, such as advertising or data sharing, which necessitates careful examination of their privacy policies. Free VPNs may have limitations like data caps, slower speeds, and fewer server options compared to paid services. Users should evaluate the provider’s background, privacy policy, permissions, and performance before installation. A paid VPN generally offers better reliability, support, and transparency, making it a safer choice for sensitive activities.

Winsage

September 7, 2026

Want your PC to be a bit more like a Mac? The ‘Dynamic Island for Windows’ just got a big update.

Notchify, a Windows application emulating macOS's Dynamic Island feature, has received a significant update that improves performance and adds new functionalities. Key enhancements include optional GPU rendering for smoother animations, reduced CPU and memory usage, resolution of keyboard lag, improved fullscreen detection, and selectable frame rates. The app now features an integrated Clipboard history, drag-and-drop file tray functionality, an in-app notifications panel, to-do and notes sections with a calendar date picker, quick system actions, app shortcuts, and a connected device card for BLE devices. Additionally, a media player with various options has been included, along with quality of life enhancements like a hover-to-reveal feature, a redesigned settings interface, support for 10 languages, and improvements for multi-monitor setups. Notchify is priced at .99, with a free trial available.

AppWizard

September 7, 2026

How to find and hide an app on Android Auto

The sudden disappearance of apps from the Android Auto launcher can be resolved by launching the app on your phone and reconnecting to Android Auto. This issue is often due to features in the Android operating system, such as Samsung's automatic disabling of unused apps to conserve battery life. To prevent apps from disappearing, users can disable the "Auto disable unused apps" setting in their phone's battery settings. Users can also customize the apps displayed in Android Auto by navigating to Settings > Connected devices > Android Auto > Customize launcher. Not all applications are compatible with Android Auto; only those designed for the platform will appear. While there is no dedicated "hide app" function, users can manage app visibility through customization options.

AppWizard

September 7, 2026

Google Play Store will soon let you manage your downloads, and here’s a working demo

Google is introducing a pause and resume feature for app downloads on its Play Store, allowing users to halt downloads and resume them later. This feature is designed to enhance user experience by providing flexibility in managing downloads and data usage. It has been successfully activated in the latest version of the Play Store (v53.0) on test devices, indicating readiness for a broader rollout. Users will find paused downloads listed in a built-in download manager, simplifying the process. The feature aims to make installations more manageable, especially for those mindful of their data plans.

AppWizard

September 7, 2026

Xbox Cloud Gaming Caps Hours: 15 for Ultimate [2026]

On September 3, 2026, Microsoft announced that Xbox Game Pass subscribers will see a shift in cloud gaming access. Starting November 2026, unlimited cloud streaming will be replaced by a tiered hour bank system: 15 hours for Ultimate, 10 for Premium, and 5 for Essential subscribers. Once a subscriber exhausts their allotted hours, they must wait for the next billing cycle or purchase additional time. This change is the most significant since the beta launch of Xbox Cloud Gaming in 2019. The announcement was made on Xbox Wire, and the new structure is reflected on Xbox’s product pages. The new tiered system introduces a scarcity model, with every paid tier now having its own cloud gaming quota. Essential subscribers, who previously had no cloud access, will now receive 5 hours per month. The pricing for the Game Pass tiers is as follows: Ultimate at .99 for 15 hours, Premium at .99 for 10 hours, and Essential at .99 for 5 hours. The free ad-supported tier remains unchanged at 5 hours per month. Microsoft's rationale for the change is based on usage data indicating that most subscribers do not heavily utilize cloud streaming, coupled with the rising costs of operating cloud gaming services. The company has stated that additional hours can be purchased once a subscriber's monthly allotment is used up, although pricing details for these add-ons have not yet been disclosed. The new hour caps will take effect in November 2026, following a shorter notice period compared to NVIDIA's GeForce NOW service, which implemented a 100-hour monthly cap earlier in 2026. The response from gaming communities has been largely negative, with concerns about the limits falling short of typical usage patterns and conflicting with the marketing of Game Pass as offering unlimited access. The introduction of hour caps could impact Game Pass's subscriber base, particularly among those who rely on cloud gaming as their primary access point. Microsoft's internal usage data will determine the extent of this impact, as the company aims to control costs without raising subscription prices.

Winsage

September 6, 2026

These are the best power settings for your Windows or Mac system

Windows and macOS offer various power management features to optimize energy consumption for both laptop and desktop users. In Windows, users can access power options through Settings > System > Power (for desktops) or System > Power & battery (for laptops). Key features include: - Power Mode options: Best Power Efficiency, Balanced, and Best Performance. - Configurable screen, sleep, and hibernate time-outs to reduce energy use. - Energy Saver mode, which minimizes background activity and dims the display. - Customization of the Power & sleep button controls. In macOS, users can find power settings under System Settings via the Apple menu. Key features include: - Low Power Mode for laptops, which reduces background activity and dims the screen. - Energy Mode options for Macs with Apple Silicon: Low Power, Automatic, and High Power. - Options to prevent automatic sleep and optimize video streaming performance. - Screen time-out settings under Lock Screen to adjust display delay when idle.

Tech Optimizer

September 6, 2026

“Iran unveils second homegrown antivirus to counter malware and cyberattacks”

Iran has introduced its second domestically developed antivirus software, Ayyza, which utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to detect known and unknown cyber threats. The antivirus is designed to protect against malware, viruses, Trojans, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs). Ayyza's detection engine is developed in-house and operates at the Windows kernel level to enhance detection accuracy and speed while minimizing hardware resource consumption. It can receive updates offline or via Iran’s National Information Network. Ayyza's machine-learning capabilities allow it to identify emerging threats, including previously unknown malware and zero-day vulnerabilities. The company has also created complementary security tools, such as privileged access management (PAM) systems and data leakage prevention tools, to enhance overall cybersecurity. The company's products are currently used in various Iranian infrastructures, including banking, financial, and governmental systems.

Winsage

September 6, 2026

These are the best power settings for your Windows or Mac system

Power management options in Windows and macOS can help extend battery life for laptops and reduce energy consumption for desktops. In Windows 11, users can access power options via Settings > System > Power (for desktops) or System > Power & battery (for laptops). Key settings include Power Mode (Best Power Efficiency, Balanced, Best Performance), screen and sleep time-outs, Energy Saver mode, and Power & sleep button controls. In macOS 27 Golden Gate, users find power settings under System Settings > Energy (for desktops) or Battery (for laptops). Key features include Low Power Mode, Energy Mode options (Low Power, Automatic, High Power) for Apple Silicon Macs, and additional settings under the Options button. Screen time-out settings are found under Lock Screen in System Settings. Adjusting these settings can significantly impact energy usage.

AppWizard

September 6, 2026

Google orders Android apps to cut RAM use amid memory crunch

Google has introduced new performance standards for applications on Google Play to improve user experience and device efficiency by reducing memory consumption. Key areas of focus include dynamic memory management, efficient bitmap data utilization, and DEX code optimization. These standards aim to prevent system slowdowns and forced app closures due to insufficient memory. Google will provide tools within the Play Console for developers to monitor memory issues and access analytics through Android Vitals. The new performance thresholds will take effect in February 2027, with non-compliant applications facing publication restrictions. Additionally, all applications with login systems must support a zero-tap sign-in feature for enhanced user convenience and security.

Tech Optimizer

September 5, 2026

Malwarebytes vs Norton 2026: Which Should You Use?

Norton and Malwarebytes serve different purposes in cybersecurity. Malwarebytes Free is an on-demand scanner that lacks real-time protection, while Malwarebytes Premium offers a lightweight app with minimal settings. Norton provides comprehensive protection with a resident scanner included in all tiers. Norton excels in real-time protection, lab test scores, and features such as a firewall and parental controls, while Malwarebytes is effective at removing existing infections and has a free tier. Users can run Norton and Malwarebytes together, but it's recommended to use only one resident scanner to avoid conflicts. Malwarebytes maintains consistent pricing, while Norton has higher renewal costs. Malwarebytes is known for its user-friendly interface and quick installation, whereas Norton offers 24/7 support. In tests, both products effectively detected and removed threats, but Malwarebytes performed better in cleanup tasks.