worth Archives

Winsage

February 11, 2026

Microsoft dials up the nagging in Windows, calls it security

Microsoft is introducing new security features for its Windows operating system, including "Windows Baseline Security Mode" and "User Transparency and Consent." The Baseline Security Mode will enforce runtime integrity safeguards by default, allowing only properly signed applications, services, and drivers to operate, with options for users to override these safeguards for legacy applications. The User Transparency and Consent feature will require explicit user consent for applications accessing sensitive resources, moving away from the current User Account Control prompts. Microsoft aims to enhance user security and privacy while providing clear and actionable notifications. CrowdStrike's Chief Technology Innovation Officer expressed support for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of user consent settings for security software effectiveness. Microsoft has a history of security initiatives, including the Secure Future Initiative, and plans to hold applications and AI tools to higher transparency standards. The rollout of these updates will occur in phases, although no specific timeline has been provided.

Tech Optimizer

February 10, 2026

Why Should Small Businesses Invest In Antivirus Protection?

53% of UK businesses experience cybercrime attempts at least once a month, and 70% of business owners anticipate a cyber attack in the near future, yet only 35% feel adequately prepared. 43% of cyberattacks are directed at small businesses, with over half potentially closing due to the damage. Antivirus software is a cost-effective solution that can prevent data breaches, reduce the likelihood of ransomware, and protect devices of remote workers.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

‘FreeTube Android’ is an Android app that allows you to play YouTube videos for free without ads or login.

The FreeTube Android app, launched on February 9, 2026, allows users to stream YouTube content without advertisements or a Google account. It is a soft fork of the original FreeTube, emphasizing user privacy and ad-free viewing. The app is available on GitHub, with the current version being 0.23.12.1, and is still in beta, which may result in bugs and missing features. Users must enable 'Installation of unknown apps' in their Android settings to install the APK file named freetube-0.23.12.1-Android.apk. Upon launching, users encounter a clean interface and can customize settings, including data acquisition methods, theme, player display modes, and privacy controls. The app allows straightforward content searching and channel subscriptions, although the order of displayed videos may sometimes be unexpected. Overall, FreeTube Android offers a privacy-conscious alternative for watching YouTube videos without needing an account.

Tech Optimizer

February 10, 2026

Why Should Small Businesses Invest In Antivirus Protection?

53% of UK businesses experience cybercrime attempts at least once a month. 70% of business owners anticipate a cyber attack in the near future, but only about 35% feel prepared. 43% of cyberattacks are directed at small businesses, and over half of these may face closure due to the damage. Antivirus software can prevent data breaches, is cost-effective, reduces the likelihood of ransomware, and protects devices of remote workers.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

Steam Opens the Gates: Four Major PC Games Are Free to Play This Weekend

Steam is currently offering free access to four PC games: Fallout 76, Deep Rock Galactic, Dead by Daylight, and Grounded 2. The free access for Deep Rock Galactic, Dead by Daylight, and Grounded 2 lasts until February 2, while Fallout 76 is available for free until February 5. After the promotional period, players will need to purchase the games to retain access. Discounts are available for those interested in buying: Fallout 76 is 80% off, Dead by Daylight is 60% off, and Deep Rock Galactic is 70% off. Grounded 2 is not included in the discount promotion.

Winsage

January 31, 2026

I Switched From Windows 11 to Linux Mint. Here Are 7 Things It Does Way Better

Linux Mint is a free operating system that can be downloaded without any licensing fees, in contrast to Windows 11, which costs between 9 for the Home Edition and 9 for the Pro Edition. It has minimal hardware requirements, running efficiently on traditional AMD- or Intel-based systems, with a 3GB installer and support for devices with as little as 2GB of RAM. Linux Mint features a cleaner and more organized desktop interface compared to Windows 11, with three different editions: Cinnamon, MATE, and Xfce, catering to various user preferences. Users can test Linux Mint risk-free via live USB drives, and it operates without AI features, unlike Windows 11. It collects minimal diagnostic data, prioritizing user privacy. However, Linux Mint does not support major software like Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft 365 desktop applications, and some hardware drivers may be lacking. Users may need some technical knowledge for optimal use.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

Is Hytale worth playing? A lifelong Minecraft fan’s perspective

In 2010, a 14-year-old journalist began playing a beta version of Minecraft, which sparked a lasting passion for the game. Minecraft's core gameplay remains popular, supported by a vibrant community that creates mods and custom servers. Hytale, a sandbox RPG that originated from the Hypixel Minecraft server in 2015, has been released as a standalone game after a challenging development process. Hytale features familiar aesthetics from Minecraft but introduces enhancements like a structured beginning and RPG elements. It aims to capture the essence of Minecraft while offering new experiences for players. Hytale is currently in early access and reflects the spirit of innovation in sandbox gaming.

AppWizard

January 31, 2026

NotebookLM’s Android App Just Unlocked One of Its Most Powerful Features

NotebookLM has introduced the Video Overviews feature for Android users, allowing them to create concise videos from selected notebook content. This feature, previously available only on desktop, can be accessed through the Studio section of the app. The update also includes new customization options for infographics, such as landscape layouts, horizontal formats, and square designs. Additionally, slide deck customization is in development. The update enhances NotebookLM's functionality as a conversational research assistant, enabling users to add sources, ask follow-up questions, and generate tables, summaries, and videos on mobile devices. Availability of these features may vary by device and region.

BetaBeacon

January 30, 2026

10 Games To Play On Your Phone Instead Of Doomscrolling

- Slay the Spire is a popular roguelite deckbuilder game that was released on PC and console in 2019 and later brought to iOS and Android. - The game offers quick plays on mobile devices and allows players to pick up where they left off. - It is considered one of the best games ever made and offers infinite play time. - The mobile version of Slay the Spire is properly priced. - The game Balatro, a poker-ish game, became popular on PC and console before being released on iOS and Android in 2024. - Like Slay the Spire, Balatro is worth the price and offers a unique experience with each run. - Polimines Deluxe is a puzzle game that combines elements of Picross, Hexcells, and Minesweeper. - The mobile version includes both Polimines 1 and 2, offering a challenging and clever gameplay experience. - The game makes players feel like geniuses when solving puzzles and is reasonably priced.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

This weekend is your last chance to grab eight great Steam Deck games for just $14.99

You have three days left to access this month’s Humble Choice offerings, which include games valued at .99 for a price of .99. Each game is either Steam Deck Verified or Playable. The lineup features Sonic Frontiers, Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered, Hunt: Showdown 1896, Etrian Odyssey II HD, Nice Day for Fishing, Metal Slug Tactics, Settlement Survival, and Wizard of Legend 2. The subscription costs .99 a month, providing eight games each month, with the option to cancel anytime while keeping the games. This month’s selection will be replaced on February 3. Additionally, subscribers receive a one-month subscription to IGN Plus and can participate in the playtest for Handmancers.