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Tech Optimizer

July 29, 2025

Surfshark One Review

Surfshark has launched Surfshark One, a comprehensive security suite that includes a VPN, antivirus software, a data leak detection system, and a private search engine. Surfshark One features over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch. The antivirus component offers real-time protection and was awarded 'Top Product' by AV-TEST in June 2024 for a 100% detection rate against advanced malware. Surfshark Alert notifies users of data breaches involving sensitive information, while Surfshark Search provides an ad-free, private browsing experience. Users can choose from various plans, with competitive pricing and a seven-day free trial available. The interface is user-friendly and supports multiple devices, allowing protection for up to five devices per account. The antivirus continuously monitors devices, and users can conduct on-demand scans or schedule them. Surfshark's VPN offers features like NoBorders mode, Dynamic MultiHop, and a built-in speed test. Additional features include the Alternative ID for managing online personas and the option for a dedicated IP address for an extra fee. However, some features like a password manager and parental controls are not included.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

RECALL ROUNDUP: Burst-proof hoses, Minecraft slap bracelets and Frigidaire minifridges

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced recalls for several products due to safety concerns. 1. Winston is recalling approximately 3.6 million HydroTech Expandable Burst-Proof hoses due to reports of bursting, which have caused 29 injuries. These hoses were sold from January 2021 to April 2025 at various retailers. Customers can return the hoses for a refund. 2. Innovative Designs is recalling around 75,900 Minecraft Light-up Slap Ruler Bracelets because the button cell battery is accessible, posing a risk of injury to children. These bracelets were sold at Walmart from March to May 2025. Customers should stop using them and can obtain a refund by contacting the company. 3. Curtis International is recalling about 634,000 Frigidaire-brand Minifridges due to a potential short-circuiting issue that poses a fire risk. There have been 26 reports of these minifridges sparking or catching fire, resulting in smoke inhalation injuries. They were sold from January 2020 to December 2023 at Walmart and Amazon. Owners should stop using them and follow instructions for obtaining a refund.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

Minecraft Light-Up Slap Bracelets Recalled For Button Batteries

Innovative Designs of New York has recalled its Minecraft Light-Up Slap Bracelets due to safety concerns related to button batteries that children can easily access, posing a risk of injury or fatality. The recall affects approximately 75,000 units sold at Walmart between March and May 2025, priced at about . The bracelets, available in pink and green, feature the "MINECRAFT" logo and model numbers 718508MCR and 718075MCR. Consumers are advised to keep the bracelets away from children and to contact Innovative Designs for disposal guidance and refunds.

AppWizard

July 28, 2025

Android users may be able to scan QR codes faster with easier actions

Google is enhancing its QR code scanning experience on Android devices with a gradual rollout of a user-friendly interface. The updated link menu includes options like Copy text and Share, in addition to the traditional Open button. The viewfinder interface has been modified, featuring a minimized "Scan QR code" label, a flash icon at the bottom, and a new option to Scan from photo. This update improves the clarity of scanned links, indicating where they will direct users, such as to the Chrome browser. Google previously introduced the Circle to Search feature, which uses AI for visual lookup of barcodes and QR codes, providing a direct link to websites after scanning. Additionally, the Quick Share feature allows users to share files via a QR code that others can scan.

AppWizard

July 28, 2025

Swarovski and Minecraft team up in surprise collaboration

Austrian crystal giant Swarovski has collaborated with Microsoft's Minecraft to release a new line of collectible crystal figurines, including Minecraft Steve, Alex, Creeper, and Pig. These figurines are priced between £280 and £300, making them some of the most expensive Minecraft merchandise. Additionally, a special in-game item called the "Crystal Suit" is available for Minecraft: Bedrock Edition, which can be obtained by scanning a QR code. The collection is available for purchase at Swarovski stores and its official website.

AppWizard

July 28, 2025

Swarovski Gets Crafty With Minecraft Characters In New Collaboration

Minecraft has collaborated with Swarovski to create a collection titled “Your Adventures Crystallised,” featuring four crystal figurines: Alex, The Pig, The Creeper, and Steve. The collection also includes a special crystallised Character Creator item that players can redeem for free by scanning a QR code on the packaging. Additionally, a Crystal Suit, adorned with the Swarovski Swan emblem, is available as an in-game wearable. The collection is available at Swarovski stores and on their official website.

Winsage

July 27, 2025

Microsoft released Windows 11 KB5062839, KB5063689 setup and recovery updates

Microsoft has released dynamic updates for Windows 11, specifically for version 24H2 and Windows Server 2025, while Windows 10 users will not receive new enhancements. These updates improve the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and Setup binaries, ensuring the preservation of Language Pack and Features on Demand content during upgrades. The updates include KB5062839, which enhances Windows setup binaries, and KB5063689, which improves the Windows recovery environment. Both updates will be automatically downloaded and installed via Windows Update, but can also be accessed manually through Microsoft's Update Catalog.

AppWizard

July 27, 2025

Almost an hour of pre-alpha PC gameplay from Battlefield 6

YouTube user xLokord has released a nearly hour-long gameplay video of the pre-alpha multiplayer build of Battlefield 6. The gameplay was recorded on a PC with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, and while the video is in 4K, specific graphics settings were not disclosed. The footage may contain placeholders as it is pre-alpha material. The destruction mechanics in the game appear enhanced compared to previous titles, and Battlefield 6 may not be available on older console platforms. The game is expected to launch in October, featuring both single-player and multiplayer modes, with an official multiplayer reveal set for July 31st.

Winsage

July 26, 2025

How to Fix Windows 11 24H2 BSOD and Crashes

The Windows 11 24H2 update has caused complications, leading Microsoft to compile a list of affected hardware and software along with potential fixes. Users experiencing crashes can try the following solutions: 1. Remove Windows Hello: Users with laptops that have integrated cameras may experience system freezes. To fix this, navigate to Settings > Accounts > Sign in options, expand the Facial Recognition section, and click Remove. Optionally, remove fingerprint and PIN settings and set up a password. 2. Change Registry Settings for SSDs: The update has made certain SSDs from Western Digital and SanDisk incompatible. A temporary fix involves modifying the registry. Open the Registry Editor, navigate to ComputerHKEYLOCALMACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlStorPort, locate or create the DWORD HmbAllocationPolicy, modify its value to 0 or 2, and restart the PC. 3. Perform Windows Updates Again: Subsequent updates may resolve existing issues. Check for updates in Windows Update, download all related to the 24H2 version, and restart the PC as necessary. 4. Reroll Windows 11: Users can revert to the previous version within 10 days of the update if the option is available. Go to Settings > System > Recovery and select Go back. If the option is greyed out, users can download Windows 11 23H2 from Microsoft’s website for a clean installation, ensuring to back up data first.

Tech Optimizer

July 26, 2025

The best Android antivirus apps of 2025: Expert tested

Cyber threats targeting smartphones have evolved to include sophisticated malware and ransomware, with Android being particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks compared to iOS. Google recommends downloading apps only from the official Play Store, but some malicious applications can bypass these security measures. To protect Android devices from malware, investing in a reliable antivirus app is essential. Bitdefender Mobile Security is currently the top-rated Android antivirus app with a 4.7-star rating on Google Play, offering features like real-time web protection and app scanning. A free version is available, but a subscription is required for enhanced features. Sophos Intercept X for Mobile is a commendable free option with a 3.9-star rating, providing threat scanning and app protection. Other notable antivirus apps include Avast Security and Virus Cleaner, which has a 4.6-star rating and features a web shield and junk removal, and Malwarebytes Mobile Security, also rated 4.6 stars, known for its quick scans and digital footprint service. Norton360, with a 4.6-star rating, offers a comprehensive suite of features including antivirus scanning and a VPN. The best Android antivirus apps of 2025 include: - Bitdefender Mobile Security: Free, per year, 4.7 stars, 448K reviews - Sophos Intercept X: Free, 4.1 stars, 47.1K reviews - Avast: Ad-supported free, 4.6 stars, 7.34M reviews - Malwarebytes: Free, per year, 4.6 stars, 423K reviews - Norton360: Paid plans, 4.6 stars, 1.92M reviews The mobile malware landscape has reportedly increased by 151% since the beginning of 2025, with Google taking legal action against the BadBox 2.0 botnet targeting IoT devices, including Android. A new malware variant named ClickFix is also emerging, affecting macOS, Android, and iOS platforms. Relying solely on built-in protection and the Google Play Store is not advisable; a reputable antivirus app is recommended for additional security.