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Malware Found Pre-Installed In Thousands Of Budget Android Phones - Here's What We Know
AppWizard
October 16, 2026

Malware Found Pre-Installed In Thousands Of Budget Android Phones – Here’s What We Know

A report from Bitdefender reveals a malware campaign named "Midnight Mimosa" affecting budget and midrange Android smartphones, particularly those using low-energy MediaTek chipsets. This malware, embedded in devices marketed under various labels like Cubot and Doogee, operates through an application called "System" (package name com.android.system.lite) that displays hidden ads and can allow hackers to control the devices. Thousands of devices have been tracked with this malware, with 13% of affected devices located in Mexico, 8% in the United States, and less than 3% in Canada. The malware's source traces back to Android ODM Shenzhen Zediel. Additionally, Bitdefender identified 13 other ad fraud-related apps signed by the same entity that were previously available on the Google Play Store. Major manufacturers like Google, Motorola, and Samsung have security protocols to protect their firmware, unlike the affected budget brands.
Experts warn cheap Android phones are shipping with malware
AppWizard
October 15, 2026

Experts warn cheap Android phones are shipping with malware

Cybersecurity experts from Bitdefender have found that budget Android smartphones, such as the Doogee S200 X, Doogee Fire 3 Max, and Cubot KINGKONG X, may come pre-loaded with malware embedded in their firmware, posing significant security risks. This malware is introduced during the manufacturing process, particularly affecting devices with MediaTek chipsets. Thousands of users in around 150 countries, including Mexico, France, Italy, the United States, Germany, Brazil, and Spain, have been impacted. Bitdefender identified a network of 32 malicious applications disguised as legitimate utilities that generate fraudulent ad impressions. Some infected phones can function as residential proxies for criminal activities, including spam campaigns and DDoS attacks. Uninstalling the malicious app may not eliminate the infection if it is integrated into the system software, potentially requiring firmware-level remediation. Buyers of budget phones should research manufacturers' supply chain control and commitment to security updates.
Nothing OS 5.0 is rolling out, but not every phone gets it yet
AppWizard
October 12, 2026

Nothing OS 5.0 is rolling out, but not every phone gets it yet

Nothing OS 5.0 has begun rolling out for the Nothing Phone (3), built on Android 17. The update includes over 80 changes in design, performance, and AI features. Key enhancements involve a redesigned Home Screen with transparent widgets and an adaptive color scheme, a new Micrographics clock face on the Lock Screen, improved organization through Smart Collections, and faster transcription with Essential Voice. Users can also create AI-powered apps without coding through the Essential Apps Builder, which will be gradually introduced. Performance improvements include better touch response and resource management. Android 17 adds separate Notifications and Quick Settings panels, cross-platform Quick Share, enhanced privacy controls, and a redesigned Recents screen. The rollout will extend to the Phone (4a) and Phone (3a) series in November, with other compatible models to follow.
This Android TV launcher gave me screen time controls, but I'm still not switching from Monet
AppWizard
October 11, 2026

This Android TV launcher gave me screen time controls, but I’m still not switching from Monet

PLUI, or Premium Launcher TV UI, is an Android TV launcher that offers a feature-rich experience without premium fees. It features a vibrant interface with an app list, colorful widgets, and a sidebar menu, but can appear cluttered and overwhelming. The performance on devices like the Chromecast with Google TV can be sluggish compared to lighter alternatives. PLUI provides extensive customization options, including over 80 weather-related widgets, photo slideshows, and security camera feeds. Users can select backgrounds from sources like Reddit and NASA, and apply a blur effect. It supports multiple user profiles, accommodating up to ten accounts, and includes parental controls such as screen time limits. However, its performance and user experience may not surpass lighter launchers like Monet, which offers similar features in a more streamlined manner.
Видео. Ливень в регионе Валенсия превратил улицы Торрента в грязь и вывел из строя машины
TrendTechie
October 10, 2026

Видео. Ливень в регионе Валенсия превратил улицы Торрента в грязь и вывел из строя машины

In Torrent, a city with approximately 85,000 residents, severe flooding has caused streets to be covered in mud, damaging several vehicles and trapping 15 individuals in a fast-food restaurant, who were rescued by emergency services. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of engineering measures to prevent such flooding and raised concerns about the delayed warning from the Spanish emergency alert system, ES-Alert, which was issued after significant flooding had already occurred. The flooding followed torrential rains, with nearly 96 liters of rainfall recorded, including 71 liters in just 30 minutes. The Barranco del Poyo ravine and nearby town of Paiporta were also affected, although the stream did not overflow. Emergency crews are working to clear damaged roads and vehicles.
Microsoft Overhauls Windows 11 Search To Control Your PC Faster Than Ever
Winsage
October 10, 2026

Microsoft Overhauls Windows 11 Search To Control Your PC Faster Than Ever

Microsoft has released an update for its Insider Program that includes a revamped Search feature, enhancing user experience with a focus on more informative results and previews. The update integrates advanced capabilities through WinUI 3 and allows users to access quick details without launching files or navigating File Explorer. It introduces web previews for specific queries, such as local weather and stock market data, and includes "inline actions" that enable users to perform tasks directly from the search window, like sending SMS messages or changing themes. Users can explore these features by joining the Windows Insider Program and enabling Feature flags in the settings.
Microsoft reveals plan to make Windows 11 Search much less painful to use, including a performance boost
Winsage
October 10, 2026

Microsoft reveals plan to make Windows 11 Search much less painful to use, including a performance boost

Microsoft is transforming Windows 11 Search to improve user experience by enhancing performance, reducing memory consumption, and streamlining the interface. The redesign is currently being rolled out to Windows Insiders for feedback before a broader launch. Key changes include a new architecture using WinUI 3, which improves performance and memory efficiency, and a simplified interface that merges results into a cohesive list. The updated Search will better understand user intent, support typos and synonyms, and include features such as inline previews and expanded file information. Users will also be able to execute common Windows tasks directly through the Search interface, such as switching to dark mode or turning on Bluetooth.
Your Android phone could be infected before you turn it on
AppWizard
October 9, 2026

Your Android phone could be infected before you turn it on

Bitdefender researchers have identified a malware campaign called Midnight Mimosa that can be embedded in the software of low-cost Android devices before sale. This malware operates stealthily, allowing it to install and remove applications without user knowledge, generate fraudulent advertising activity, and convert devices into residential-proxy relay nodes for a botnet. It has been found on MediaTek-based, white-label devices marketed under misleading names. Users should be cautious of suspiciously cheap devices and look for signs of infection, such as unexplained ads, unfamiliar apps, sudden battery drain, and discrepancies in model names. Standard uninstallation or factory resets may not remove this malware, and users are advised to update their devices, review app lists, and contact sellers for refunds or replacements if they suspect infection. Mobile protection solutions can help monitor app behavior and alert users to potential threats.
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