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    How to get free Windows 10 security patches on your PC – from now to October 2026

    NurPhoto/Contributor/NurPhoto via Getty Images Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source<!–> on Google. ZDNET’s key takeaways Windows 10 PCs can receive free security updates until October 2026. To qualify for free personal updates, enroll with a Microsoft account. Customers in any of the 30 EEA countries automatically qualify. This month’s Windows updates will be […] More

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    This critical Android security feature is disabled out of the box – how to enable it ASAP

    What is Advanced Protection on Android? Advanced Protection in Android 16 combines multiple security settings across six categories into one switch. Turning it on will lock certain features so they can’t be disabled individually, and it activates more protections.Also: I unlocked hidden menus on my iPhone and Android with 14 secret codesHere’s what it does, specifically, on your device, according to Google: AppsDevice safetyMessagesNetwork2G network protection: Prevents your phone from connecting to insecure 2G networks (on supported devices).PhoneWebSafe browsing: Blocks phishing and malicious websites.Chrome HTTPS enforcement: Forces HTTPS whenever possible.JavaScript protections: Disables Chrome’s JavaScript optimizer to reduce attack risks. Why isn’t Advanced Protection enabled by default? Some aspects, such as blocking sideloaded apps or automatically screening calls, may cause issues for certain users. So, it’s optional, even though it offers stronger security. Does Advanced Protection block sideloaded apps? Yes. It blocks installations from unknown sources — so you can’t sideload apps outside the Play Store while it’s enabled. Will Advanced Protection slow down my phone or make it harder to use? You won’t notice much difference. The biggest trade-offs are losing the ability to sideload apps and occasional issues with spam and call screening. What exactly happens if my phone is stolen? If your phone is stolen, Advanced Protection is helpful. It includes Theft Detection Lock, which automatically locks your phone if it’s grabbed from your hand or moved suddenly. It also has Offline Device Lock, which locks the device when it loses connection, and Inactivity Reboot, which forces a reboot if the phone stays locked for 72 hours. Do I need Google Account Advanced Protection? Separate from the device toggle, Google Account Advanced Protection secures your online account (Gmail, Drive, Docs, and more).Also: The best secure browsers for privacy in 2025: Expert testedIt’s an opt-in program that requires stronger sign-in methods, such as passkeys or physical security keys, and limits third-party access to your data. Unlike Android’s Advanced Protection, which focuses on your phone and local data, this program protects your online account and data in the cloud. For the highest level of security, especially if you’re at high risk, both are worth enabling. More

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    This TCL Mini LED model is one of the best TVs we lab-tested (and it’s $1,600 off right now)

    TCL QM8K (2025) <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The TCL QM8K (65-inch) is currently available with a big discount across major retailers. It handles HDR content with eye-popping, true-to-life brightness. The addition of a soundbar would make its audio more immersive. more buying choices Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source–> on Google. TCL consistently outperforms its […] More

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    The Lenovo ThinkPad streak is over – this model breaks a decade-long trend in the best way yet

    Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways Lenovo’s first-edition ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition 14-inch is available now, starting at $1,239 for the lowest-tier configuration. It’s an experimental evolution of the ThinkPad line, exchanging some of the most defining features for a new sleek form factor and bold design. The entry configuration only comes […] More

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    I thought Bose had mastered noise cancelling – then I listened to these headphones

    Bose QuietComfort Ultra (Gen 2) <!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (Gen 2) are available for $449 in five colors. They solidify Bose’s warranted confidence in its design, comfort, noise cancellation, and sound performance. The only major, eye-catching upgrades relate to battery capacity and power management. –> <!–> oct / 2025 Follow […] More