Wi-Fi Archives

AppWizard

June 19, 2026

Commodore’s New Flip Phone Skips Android for Linux-Based Sailfish OS

A year after its revival, the Commodore brand is re-entering the mobile phone market with the retro flip phone called the Commodore Callback 8020. This device runs on a privacy-focused Linux-based operating system, Jolla's Sailfish OS, and features stringent software restrictions that block browsers and social media applications. It comes preloaded with WhatsApp and supports other messaging services like Signal, Telegram, and WeChat. The Callback 8020 is powered by a MediaTek Helio G81 chip, has 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of expandable storage. It features a 3.25-inch IPS display, a 1.77-inch exterior screen, and a tactile T9 keypad. The rear camera has a 48MP Sony sensor, and the phone includes a removable 1550mAh battery. Connectivity options include dual-SIM 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, hotspot, and GPS. The Callback 8020 will be available in five colors, with prices starting at .99, and units are expected to ship this winter.

AppWizard

June 18, 2026

5 Surprisingly Useful Android Apps That Aren’t On The Play Store

Google's sideloading process allows users to access applications beyond the Play Store, including open-source and free apps. Five notable apps highlighted are: - WriteOn: A minimalist note-taking app that supports checklists, numbered lists, images, an in-app calendar, and a calculator. It features a Scratchpad for temporary notes and allows exporting notes as TXT files. It also includes a Flashcards feature for studying. - Fridgey: An open-source app for managing fridge and pantry inventory, allowing users to catalog food items by freshness and expiration. Users can input item details and adjust quantities as items are consumed. - PrivacyFlip: An app that enhances privacy control for Android users, enabling toggling of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other features even when the device is locked. It includes a battery-saving feature and requires a straightforward setup process. - Timety: A productivity app that combines a to-do list, habit tracker, and focus timer. Users can categorize tasks, set priorities, and create subtasks. It features customizable habit tracking and a Pomodoro timer for maintaining focus. - Lune: An offline music player that supports Hi-Fi audio, allowing users to organize songs by various criteria and create customizable playlists. It includes equalizer adjustments and playback controls from notifications. These apps were selected for their open-source nature and utility in productivity and entertainment, with a focus on those that have received updates in the past year.

AppWizard

June 18, 2026

How Your Location Influences Android App Availability

The Google Play Store customizes its app offerings based on the user's location, which affects app availability and functionality. App developers often set distribution rules that vary by region, leading to differences in user experience even for identical apps. Android devices determine location through a combination of signals, including SIM card data, GPS, and Wi-Fi positioning. Connectivity issues, particularly in rural areas, can limit app usability, while social habits influence regional app demand. Developers analyze engagement data to adapt their offerings based on regional preferences, creating a feedback loop that affects app visibility and features. Users should verify app functionality based on their location and connectivity before assuming an app's absence is due to obscurity.

AppWizard

June 18, 2026

Simplify your routine with the new Google Home Speaker

The Google Home Speaker features a sustainable design with a custom 3D-knit textile and is available in Hazel and Porcelain colors. It includes a light ring underglow to indicate its status and a microphone mute toggle for privacy. The device assists with planning trips, providing kitchen help, and recommending entertainment. It is available for pre-order in Australia and New Zealand through various retailers. A purchase includes a 6-month trial of the Google Home Premium subscription, which is required for certain features. The device requires a Google Home app, Wi-Fi, and an internet connection.

AppWizard

June 18, 2026

Android 17 users are running into some strange problems with Wi-Fi data in certain apps

Android 17 has been released for Pixel phone users, introducing new features like Bubbles. However, users of devices from the Pixel 7 to the Pixel 10 series are experiencing Wi-Fi connectivity issues, where apps are not utilizing the Wi-Fi connection and instead using mobile data. This problem predominantly affects Google apps, although some still work over Wi-Fi. Discussions suggest that enabling IPv6 support on home routers might resolve the issue, but attempts to replicate the problem by disabling IPv6 and mobile data were unsuccessful. The issue has raised concerns about the thoroughness of testing prior to the update's release.

Winsage

June 16, 2026

“My jaw dropped”: Dell just launched its new $599 XPS 13, and I don’t think the Windows 11 laptop market will ever be the same

Dell's XPS 13 has been released with a starting price of 9 for students and ,199 for other customers. It features Intel Core Series 3 processors, a 13.4-inch display with 2.5K resolution, and a 120Hz refresh rate. The laptop includes Dolby Atmos tuning, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and a 1080p webcam with an IR sensor. Upcoming models will have Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors and an additional Storm color option. The XPS 13 allows RAM upgrades to 16GB or 32GB, unlike the MacBook Neo, which has a fixed 8GB limit. Initial reviews have been positive, highlighting its design and pricing.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2026

Subscription twist: Norton 360 Deluxe adds more than just antivirus

Norton 360 Deluxe is a mid-tier security subscription from Gen Digital that offers antivirus protection, a VPN, a password manager, dark web monitoring, and parental controls for up to five devices. It includes real-time threat protection, a firewall, ransomware shielding, and cloud backup of up to 50 GB for Windows users. The parental controls, known as Norton Family, allow monitoring of children's online activities. The Secure VPN encrypts internet traffic on public Wi-Fi and masks IP addresses. The package also features PC SafeCam for webcam security and a smart firewall. Norton 360 Deluxe is marketed with a promotional first-year rate, with higher renewal prices, and is available through digital subscriptions, app stores, and major retailers. The product is designed for households and individuals seeking comprehensive security solutions.

Winsage

June 16, 2026

Microsoft Teams will auto-detect when you’re at the office via Wi-Fi, roll out confirmed, but you can opt-out

Microsoft is rolling out a feature called "Workplace check-in" that allows organizations to track employee presence in the office through Wi-Fi connectivity, integrated with Microsoft Teams and configured via Microsoft Places. This feature, first noted in September 2025, will not be enabled by default. It logs an employee's location when they connect to the company’s Wi-Fi, such as when they arrive at the office. The rollout was delayed due to privacy concerns, but Microsoft is moving forward, ensuring users can control their participation. The feature does not provide real-time tracking like mapping services but indicates presence based on Wi-Fi connection. Users must grant location access through their operating system, and if they decline, IT policies cannot override this choice. Teams’ Workplace check-in is disabled by default and can be activated by IT administrators with two options: Inform mode, which notifies users of the feature and allows opting out, and Ask mode, which requests permission to share location data. Microsoft clarifies that the feature is not intended for surveillance and does not track movements over time. Employees can choose whether their presence is visible to others while on-site. The initial rollout is tied to organizations using the Microsoft Places directory, and as organizations set up the feature, more users will likely be affected. Additionally, Microsoft is enhancing Teams with improvements for speed and a new user interface for meetings.

Winsage

June 15, 2026

Microsoft’s controversial Wi‑Fi tracking in Teams is back — but this time with better privacy controls

A feature within Microsoft Teams, initially perceived as a surveillance tool for tracking employees' locations via Wi-Fi, has been officially launched after delays from mid-March to April 2026. Microsoft clarified that the feature, now rebranded from Automatic Update of Work Location to Workplace Check-In via Wi-Fi, is intended to enhance collaboration and facilitate employee coordination rather than serve as a monitoring mechanism. The feature will also be integrated into Microsoft Places later this year.

Tech Optimizer

June 15, 2026

How to safely stay online while travelling

Traveling exposes individuals to potential cyber threats and scams. To enhance online security during travels, consider the following strategies: - Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to protect sensitive information; instead, use mobile data or a global eSIM. - Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to conceal your IP address while browsing, but be aware of potential access restrictions on some websites. - Invest in a robust antivirus suite for all devices, including laptops and mobile phones. - Secure devices with login passwords and consider adding a password to your SIM card. - Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security on accounts. - Research local scams and cybersecurity threats specific to your destination before traveling. - Keep apps and phone firmware updated to ensure the latest security enhancements.