useful features Archives

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Windows 11 tests Android screen mirroring from the Start menu

Microsoft has introduced a feature in Windows 11 that allows users to mirror their Android phone screens directly from the Start menu. Users can now access this functionality by clicking on their device's icon in the Start menu's phone companion panel, eliminating the need to open the Phone Link app. To use this feature, users must first link their Android phone to their Windows 11 computer using the Phone Link app. This connection also enables file transfers and the use of the phone as a webcam. Currently, the feature is available only to testers in the Windows 11 Insider Program and is compatible with a limited number of Android devices, with plans for a broader rollout by June.

Tech Optimizer

May 30, 2025

I put Bitdefender and Norton up against each other to see which was best, and the results were almost too close to call

Bitdefender has a detection rate of over 98% for malware, while Norton has a 97% offline detection rate and exceeds 99% online. Bitdefender's firewall is configurable but limited to its Total Security package, whereas Norton offers a powerful and customizable firewall. Bitdefender provides a separate Digital Identity Protection service for .33 per month, while Norton includes identity theft protection through its LifeLock service in higher tiers, offering features like credit monitoring and potential compensation up to million. Bitdefender includes a VPN with a 200MB daily data cap, while Norton offers an unlimited VPN in most subscription tiers. Both have password managers, but Bitdefender lacks two-factor authentication. Bitdefender offers straightforward parental controls, while Norton includes mobile GPS tracking. Bitdefender is recognized for its lightweight design, while Norton is noted for its speed. Bitdefender has a user-friendly interface, while Norton’s may be more complex for beginners. In independent tests, Bitdefender slightly outperforms Norton in offline detection. Norton's basic plan starts at .99 per year, while Bitdefender's Antivirus Plus starts at .99 per year.

Winsage

May 10, 2025

5 features I wish Microsoft would turn off by default on Windows 11

Microsoft's Windows 10 and 11 include features that some users find cumbersome, such as OneDrive, which is integrated but not preferred by all users. OneDrive automatically backs up default system folders during setup and offers only 15GB of storage without a Microsoft 365 subscription. Users can disable OneDrive through Computer Configuration settings. The Widgets feature, particularly the News widget, can interrupt workflow and can be disabled via Settings. The Start menu includes recommendations that some users view as advertisements, which can be turned off in Settings. Windows also has several applications set to run at startup by default, which can slow down boot times; users can manage these through Settings or Task Manager. Additionally, Windows collects diagnostic data, which raises privacy concerns, but users can opt out by adjusting settings in Privacy & Security.

AppWizard

May 8, 2025

Zomato on Android: Discover the most useful features

Zomato's Android app features an intuitive interface for browsing restaurant menus, allowing users to easily select items and add them to their cart. The checkout process supports various payment methods, including credit cards and digital wallets, ensuring a quick and tailored experience. Additionally, the app provides real-time order tracking, offering updates on the status of orders from the kitchen to the customer's doorstep.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

I turned my Windows PC into an EdgeBook — Microsoft’s web apps were the most glaring issue

Microsoft Edge was used as the sole application for two weeks to explore its capabilities as a potential alternative to ChromeOS for Windows 10 users. The experiment revealed that while Edge has useful features like the Sidebar and Edge Drop, the web versions of Microsoft Office were inadequate for daily tasks, often performing poorly and lacking functionality compared to desktop versions. Essential applications identified during the experiment included Snipping Tool, PowerToys, Microsoft Office apps, and a dedicated photo editor. The experiment also highlighted the possibility of uninstalling many applications from Windows 11, emphasizing the benefits of a clean install. Additionally, the potential of Windows 10X as a competitor to ChromeOS was noted, though it remains unrealized.

Winsage

April 23, 2025

Windows 10’s April update stealthily removed this Start menu feature

Microsoft's April update for Windows 10, designated as KB5055518, has removed the jump lists feature, which allowed users to access recent files associated with applications. This change has caused frustration among users, and the reason for the removal is unclear, with no official statement from Microsoft. Users can restore the jump lists by uninstalling the update, but this would also eliminate important security enhancements included in it.

Tech Optimizer

April 5, 2025

I put Trend Micro and McAfee antivirus in a head to head showdown – here’s how it went

McAfee and Trend Micro are two antivirus software options with distinct features. Specifications: - McAfee costs per year for a single user; Trend Micro starts at per year for 2 adults and 4 children. - McAfee supports Windows 10 and 11; Trend Micro supports Windows 8.1 to 11. - Malware protection is rated as good for McAfee and adequate for Trend Micro. - Both do not offer backup software. - System resource usage is light to heavy for both. Costs and Coverage: - Both do not have a free tier but offer a 30-day trial. - Trend Micro's entry-level Antivirus + Security is priced at , while McAfee's Basic plan typically retails for for a single device. - Trend Micro offers packages for 3 devices, 5 systems, and 10 systems, while McAfee's plans cover up to two adults and four children. Antivirus Protection: - Trend Micro uses heuristic behavioral analysis, while McAfee employs cloud-based infrastructure and machine learning. - Both provide periodic updates, but McAfee features Ransom Guard for monitoring file changes. Antivirus Performance: - McAfee has a 99.8% protection rate; Trend Micro has a 98.1% rate. - McAfee has fewer false positives (10) compared to Trend Micro (76). Security and Privacy Features: - Trend Micro includes a Firewall Booster; McAfee emphasizes phishing protection and personal data privacy. Performance and System Impact: - Trend Micro has minimal impact on system resources; McAfee uses more resources during scans. Interface: - Trend Micro's interface is user-friendly; McAfee's interface is simplified but less customizable. Installation and Support: - McAfee's installation takes under five minutes; Trend Micro's takes over twelve minutes. - McAfee offers 24/7 support; Trend Micro's support is limited to business hours unless on a premium plan. Overall, McAfee is rated higher in performance and features, while Trend Micro is noted for its efficient resource management and user-friendly interface.

AppWizard

March 10, 2025

Hall of fame: These are the Android apps I’ve been using the longest

Viber is a messaging app that has remained consistently used due to its reliability and the preference of the user's social circle. Weather & Radar is a weather application that provides accurate forecasts and useful features like a 14-day forecast and air quality reports. You Need A Budget (YNAB) is a financial management app that has helped the user save money and prepare for expenses over a decade, despite its learning curve and subscription cost. Bitwarden is a password manager that effectively stores login credentials and has proven to be superior to other alternatives tried by the user. Docusign is a document signing tool that has been used for nearly a decade, valued for its ease of use despite occasional technical issues.

Tech Optimizer

March 7, 2025

Webroot Premium

PCMag editors independently select and review products. Webroot Premium combines device-level protection with identity theft tracking and remediation, but its antivirus protection is limited compared to competitors. Webroot Premium costs .99 per year for five devices and one identity, with a family edition available for .99 covering ten devices and identities. Other competitors like Bitdefender Ultimate Security and Norton 360 With LifeLock offer more comprehensive features at similar price points. Webroot AntiVirus has been rebranded as Webroot Essentials, and older versions have been phased out. The installation process for Webroot Premium is straightforward, and it includes a firewall that monitors network activity. Webroot's antivirus effectively identifies malware, achieving a 100% detection rate in tests. It also offers a secure deletion tool and basic identity protection features, including credit monitoring, transaction monitoring, and dark web monitoring, though these features are less comprehensive than those of competitors. Webroot provides 24/7 support for identity restoration, with a monetary guarantee for remediation services up to million for ten family members. Overall, while Webroot Premium offers solid antivirus protection, its identity protection capabilities are limited compared to other security suites.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Messenger rolls out new safety, useful, and fun features

Meta has updated Messenger with new features focusing on privacy, usability, and enjoyment. Privacy and safety updates include the View Once Media option for single-view media messages, screenshot and screen recording blocks, in-app scam alerts via Spam Protection, and streamlined reporting and blocking of suspicious contacts. Usability improvements consist of HD photo sharing, enhanced HD video calls, noise-suppressed audio for clearer calls, and Siri integration for easier navigation. Expressive features allow users to personalize chats with themes, add music to notes, and use new sticker packs, including the Butterbear stickers. Social features encourage community building through Messenger Communities, enabling topic-based chats via QR codes, and engaging with public figures through Broadcast Channels.