WhatsApp Archives

Winsage

January 11, 2026

I uninstalled Windows 11’s WhatsApp WebView2 and replaced it with the old native app with a new trick

WhatsApp's transition to a Chromium-based web wrapper has resulted in a significant increase in resource consumption for Windows 11 users, with RAM usage reportedly surging to 2GB, compared to less than 1GB for the older version. Users can revert to the older version, which utilizes native code and is more efficient, by following a series of steps involving enabling Developer Mode, downloading a specific package, and using PowerShell commands. The older version maintains a steady resource usage, with memory consumption peaking at 400 MB during status updates and remaining under 300 MB for general messaging. However, reverting to the older version will prevent users from receiving new updates, and it may eventually be phased out by Meta.

AppWizard

January 10, 2026

Slack Messenger: The Surprisingly Addictive Work Chat That Makes Email Feel Ancient

Slack Messenger organizes workplace communication through specific channels, allowing for easy access to relevant discussions. Its powerful search functionality enables quick retrieval of past decisions and documents. The platform integrates with numerous applications, minimizing context switching and centralizing notifications. Features like threads, mentions, and custom emojis promote focused discussions while fostering team culture. Slack Huddles facilitate informal collaboration, and Workflow Builder automates routine tasks, enhancing efficiency. Enterprise-grade security and compliance controls make it suitable for regulated industries. Users report increased productivity, reduced need for meetings due to integrations, and a supportive remote culture, although challenges such as notification overload and information sprawl exist. Many critiques arise from poor implementation rather than the platform itself. Compared to competitors, Slack is seen as faster and more intuitive, with preferred usability and cultural appeal.

AppWizard

January 10, 2026

Slack Messenger Review: Why This Workplace Chat App Still Owns the Modern Office

Slack Messenger is a cloud-based collaboration and messaging platform owned by Salesforce Inc. It is designed to organize workplace communication through channel-based messaging, allowing separate discussions for projects, teams, or topics. Key features include powerful search capabilities, integrations with over 2,000 apps like Google Drive and Zoom, audio/video huddles, workflow automation, enterprise-grade security, and cross-organization collaboration via Slack Connect. Users generally appreciate its organization, user experience, and integration capabilities, although some express concerns about notification overload, cost at scale, and a learning curve for new users. Compared to alternatives like Microsoft Teams, Google Chat, and Discord, Slack is seen as more responsive and suitable for structured environments. It is particularly beneficial for organizations already using Salesforce due to enhanced integration with Salesforce workflows.

AppWizard

January 9, 2026

Android 17’s native app lock may also hide notifications from locked apps

Google is enhancing notification management for locked applications in Android 17. Notifications from apps secured by the built-in app lock feature will be visible on the lock screen or as a bubble, but the content will remain concealed until the app is unlocked. This includes apps like WhatsApp, where a new message notification will appear without revealing the message details. The native App Lock API is in development, aiming to provide a system-level solution for locking individual applications, potentially eliminating the need for third-party apps. The feature may require biometric authentication for access and is expected to standardize privacy controls across the platform, particularly benefiting apps that handle sensitive information. Android 17 may debut with this native app-locking system for Pixel smartphones and other devices using the stock version of the OS.

AppWizard

January 7, 2026

Windows 11’s “almost full-screen” Android apps mirroring now available for everyone via Phone Link app with supported phones

Users can utilize the "Expanded screen" feature in the Microsoft Phone Link app, allowing up to 90% of desktop screen space to be used when streaming Android applications to Windows 11. This feature is available to all users and may require updates from the Microsoft Store for those who do not see it yet. The Phone Link app previously had a compact view for Android app streaming, but now allows apps to stretch across the desktop. The feature prompts the phone to relaunch the app in a wider layout, which is then streamed to the PC, though not all apps are compatible with this expanded view. The feature is described as "almost-full-screen," leaving about 10% of the screen unused. The "Apps" section in Phone Link may be absent if the device is not supported; compatible devices include select models from Samsung, HONOR, OPPO, ASUS, vivo, and Xiaomi. Microsoft has also introduced the ability to lock PCs directly from Android phones.

AppWizard

January 3, 2026

Free PC Games This Week: Epic Games Is Giving Away Two Titles, Amazon Prime Gaming Is Offering Deus Ex: Mankind Divided and More

Epic Games Store is offering two games: Total War: Three Kingdoms, available until January 8, 2026, and Wildgate, also available until January 8, 2026. Amazon Prime Gaming is providing three games: Dreamscaper, available until February 2, 2026; Living Legends: The Crystal Tear – CE, available until March 2, 2026; and Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, available until February 2, 2026. Additionally, the Steam Winter sale features discounts on popular titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2.

AppWizard

January 1, 2026

Vietnam’s dominant messaging app faces regulatory scrutiny over data policy update

Vietnam’s National Competition Commission (NCC) has ordered VNG Corporation to revise its updated service terms for the Zalo messaging app due to user privacy concerns. The NCC emphasized that users should not be forced to consent to personal data collection as a condition for using the app and that consent mechanisms need to be voluntary and clear. The updated terms require users to accept all data management provisions or face account deletion within 45 days, which has led to significant user complaints and a decline in app ratings. Zalo's average rating on Apple’s App Store has fallen to around two out of five stars, and it has slipped to 59th place in download rankings, while international apps like WhatsApp and Viber have become more popular. Zalo has around 78 million active users and operates over 17,000 official accounts used by government and businesses. The NCC intends to meet with VNG to discuss the updated policy, as part of a wider regulatory trend against coercive data practices in digital firms globally.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Google’s Android Automotive Adds PIN-Lock for App Privacy

Google has introduced the Sensitive App Protection feature in Android Automotive, allowing users to lock individual applications with a PIN to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information in shared vehicles. This feature aims to enhance privacy amidst the rise of ride-sharing and car-sharing services, addressing concerns about unauthorized app usage by valets and other users. Sensitive App Protection is applicable to family cars and rental vehicles, ensuring that protected apps remain inaccessible without the PIN, even in restricted modes. The feature is designed to improve user privacy in connected cars, coinciding with increasing regulatory scrutiny regarding data handling. User adoption will depend on awareness and ease of use, with early feedback being generally positive. Critics note that while PIN-locking is beneficial, it does not fully address vulnerabilities related to data transmission over unsecured networks. Google plans to transition to the Gemini AI platform, which may enhance security features further. Regulatory bodies are monitoring these developments closely, and ethical considerations regarding access to privacy features for different user demographics are being discussed.

Winsage

December 25, 2025

10 free Windows apps that improved my productivity (and I’d easily pay money for)

Open-source software provides flexibility and control for users. Notable applications for Windows include: 1. LibreOffice: A free office suite with tools similar to MS Office, offering a modern or classic interface and local data privacy. 2. Flow Launcher: A rapid file search and app launcher that is customizable and visually appealing, available for free. 3. Duplicati: A backup solution that allows data backup to various destinations, including cloud services, with features like scheduling and remote management, free for personal use. 4. Nextcloud: An open-source cloud service for file storage and collaboration, installable on Windows at no cost. 5. Franz: An application that consolidates multiple messaging services into one interface, free to install and use. 6. YAZB: A customizable top bar for Windows that displays system information and provides quick access to controls, enhancing desktop aesthetics and functionality. 7. File Converter: A tool for converting and compressing files directly from the Windows file manager, free to use. 8. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with essential features, free to use with a premium option for advanced features. 9. AutoHotKey: A tool for automating tasks through scripting, available for free installation. 10. Ollama: An open-source AI solution with a user-friendly interface, free to install and use on Windows.

Tech Optimizer

December 25, 2025

New malware can read your chats and steal your money

The Android banking trojan Sturnus has emerged as a significant cybersecurity threat, capable of taking control of a device's screen, stealing banking credentials, and accessing encrypted communications from trusted applications. It operates stealthily, capturing decrypted messages without breaking encryption. To protect against Sturnus, users should employ robust antivirus software, be vigilant with app prompts, and exercise caution with links and attachments, as malware is often spread through these channels. Attackers can remotely control devices to execute financial transactions without user knowledge.