useful features Archives

AppWizard

April 28, 2026

These 3 Android Apps Can Block Ads On Your Phone

Users are increasingly seeking effective solutions to enhance their browsing experience in digital advertising, with some opting for methods beyond traditional ad-blockers, such as configuring a private DNS server to filter ads at the system level. This method can face challenges, including certain applications circumventing settings and networks blocking custom DNS configurations, which may lead to connectivity issues. DNS-based ad-blocking can disrupt app functionality or create voids where ads would typically appear. NextDNS offers customizable blocklists for ad-blocking and functions as a customizable endpoint, requiring users to set it up through Android's native DNS settings. It provides a dashboard with parental controls, tracking protection, and analytics tools, free for up to 300,000 queries per month. AdLock focuses on system-wide ad-blocking across various platforms and requires users to download the APK and subscribe for use on multiple devices, starting at .05 per month. It does not allow ads to be displayed and includes a safety check feature for potential threats. Total AdBlock, developed by Total Security Limited, offers free and premium versions, with the premium version providing full functionality, including ad-blocking on YouTube. It has a high effectiveness score on the AdBlock Tester tool and includes features like content blocking and direct support access. The curated list of ad blockers targets options that do not require root access and are cost-effective, designed to operate at the device level for Android users, as the default Chrome browser does not support extensions. Trustworthiness and reputation were key factors in the selection process, focusing on maintaining a clean browsing experience without invasive tracking mechanisms.

AppWizard

April 27, 2026

I turned my $1,000 phone into a 1995 desktop computer with this quirky Android launcher

Most Android launchers focus on functionality, with options like Microsoft Launcher for productivity and Senior Home for a decluttered interface. The author struggles with organization, preferring a chaotic arrangement of apps and files. They decided to transform their Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra into a Windows 95 homage, inspired by nostalgia for the operating system. The community on the r/windows95 subreddit celebrates this legacy. To achieve the transformation, the author used Launcher95, which offers a free and paid version. The app provides a home screen reminiscent of Windows 95, featuring a Start button, alphabetical app listing, and customization options. While initially a novelty, the author found useful features like quick links to webpages. Launcher95 may not suit everyone, especially those with many apps, but it offers a unique charm and can promote a simpler digital experience when used minimally.

Winsage

March 12, 2026

5 reasons why Windows 11 Pro is so much better than Windows 10

Windows 11 Pro is actively promoted by Microsoft as the future operating system, with Windows 10 reaching its end of support in October 2025, meaning no more free security updates or technical assistance. Windows 11 Pro offers enhanced built-in security features, including mandatory TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, making it a more secure choice. It includes useful features like BitLocker for drive encryption, Remote Desktop support, Group Policy controls, and Hyper-V for creating virtual machines. Windows 11 Pro also enhances productivity with features like Snap Layouts and File Explorer tabs for better organization and navigation.

AppWizard

March 11, 2026

I wish more people knew about this free, open-source note-taking app

Megan Ellis from Android Authority explored productivity apps, highlighting the challenge of balancing features and user privacy. Notesnook emerged as a notable option, offering a free plan with multi-device syncing and user privacy. It includes features like a rich-text editor, reminders, and organizational tags without relying on third-party cloud services. Users can self-host if desired, and the app is open-source and compatible with major platforms. The free plan has limitations, such as compressed images, a cap on colors, tags, notebooks, and reminders, while paid plans offer additional features and higher limits. Notably, Notesnook has shown increased permissiveness in its offerings over time, contrasting with trends in the app market.

Winsage

February 14, 2026

Windows 11 users are celebrating — and roasting — Microsoft for bringing back classic taskbar features

Microsoft has announced plans to reintroduce movable and resizable Taskbar options in Windows 11. Users on platforms like Reddit and Windows Central have expressed mixed reactions, with some feeling that the return of these features is more of a restoration than an innovation. Comments from users highlight skepticism about the significance of this change, with some questioning why it is being presented as a major effort given the resources available to Microsoft. Overall, the community is sharing a blend of relief and frustration regarding the reinstatement of these classic Taskbar features.

Winsage

February 13, 2026

Windows 11 users are celebrating — and roasting — Microsoft for bringing back classic taskbar features

Microsoft has confirmed its intention to reinstate movable and resizable Taskbar options in Windows 11. This decision has generated mixed reactions from users on platforms like Reddit and Windows Central, with some expressing enthusiasm while others voice skepticism and frustration over the return of features that were previously removed. Users have commented on the ease of implementing these changes, questioning why it is being presented as a significant undertaking.

Winsage

February 13, 2026

Windows 11 users are celebrating — and roasting — Microsoft for bringing back classic taskbar features

Microsoft has announced its intention to reinstate movable and resizable Taskbar options in Windows 11. This decision has generated mixed reactions from the community, with some users expressing enthusiasm and others skepticism regarding the delay in reintroducing these features. Long-time Windows users view the return of Taskbar customization as a restoration rather than an innovation. Comments on platforms like Reddit reflect frustration over the perception that restoring these features is a significant undertaking, with some users questioning why it wasn't addressed sooner.

AppWizard

December 25, 2025

5 eye-opening Google Android app tricks from 2025

The author has shared various suggestions over the past year to enhance the experience with Android applications, revealing useful features and adjustments that can improve productivity and satisfaction. As the year ends, they have compiled a selection of favorite insights to help users navigate the information overload. They encourage exploring these curated insights during the holiday weeks and recommend subscribing to their Android Intelligence newsletter, which shares three tips each Friday to enhance the Android experience.

Tech Optimizer

December 2, 2025

This Surfshark One Cyber Monday Deal Protects Your Privacy and Security With VPN, Antivirus and More for $2 a Month

Many consumers are concerned about online data safety during Cyber Monday shopping. Antivirus software is crucial for maintaining a virus-free environment, and a VPN service can enhance privacy. Surfshark is offering a Cyber Monday promotion that includes antivirus software, allowing customers to secure a two-year subscription to Surfshark One for a reduced price, along with three complimentary months. This package includes Surfshark VPN, Antivirus, Search, Alert, and Alternative ID products. An upgraded option, Surfshark One Plus, includes additional features like Incogni, a data removal service, also available at a discounted rate. CNET's Attila Tomaschek praised Surfshark for its speed, extensive server network, and user-friendly interface. Surfshark recently raised prices by 33% but has improved services, including faster speeds. The current promotion offers an 88% discount on the Surfshark One deal, making it significantly cheaper than the standard price for 27 months. This promotion allows consumers to secure premium privacy protection at a reduced price.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2025

PostgreSQL 13’s Sunset: Why Database Pros Must Upgrade Before the Lights Go Out

Organizations using PostgreSQL 13 must upgrade before its end-of-life on November 13, 2025, as this will result in the cessation of security patches, bug fixes, and official support. Continuing to use an unsupported version exposes systems to vulnerabilities, which can lead to data breaches and compliance challenges. The last minor release for PostgreSQL 13 was 13.21 in May 2025. Upgrading to newer versions, such as PostgreSQL 16 or 17, offers performance improvements and enhanced features. Strategies for upgrading include using tools like pg_upgrade, pg_dump/pg_restore, and logical replication to minimize downtime. Compatibility issues may arise due to deprecated functions in PostgreSQL 13, necessitating code reviews. Managed services like those from Percona can provide support beyond EOL. The costs of not upgrading can be significant, with potential downtime from security breaches often exceeding migration expenses.