After four years of trying different ways to build my home business and get it off the ground, I’ve reached a point where the limits of my serious health issues are no longer something I can work around.

I kept experimenting with new ideas, adjusting the way I approached things, and giving myself time to see if any version of this work could fit into the reality of my IBS, and make enough money. It hasn’t. My body can only handle so much, and I’ve run out of ways to stretch my energy any further.

The Reality of Today’s Tech Content Landscape

There is also the state of the tech world itself. Online spaces are packed with people making how-to content. Platforms are dominated by videos and posts covering the same topics from slightly different angles. AI tools have become a go-to for people as well. Even when the information is helpful or unique, very few people financially support it.

YouTube can generate income under the right conditions, but the effort required to produce regular, polished videos is enormous. Most of the creators who manage to keep going do it because they have another job or a repair business that covers their actual living expenses. I don’t have that option, and my health doesn’t allow for that kind of workload, nor for taking on the number of hours that seem to be required to get ahead in this world.

That said, I continue to post occasional videos on YouTube for fun.

What This Work Has Meant to Me

Despite all of this, I have deeply loved and enjoyed this work. Writing, explaining things clearly, and helping people troubleshoot their devices have always been passions of mine.

None of it was a chore. But enjoying something doesn’t guarantee it fits within the limits of a chronic condition, and I’ve had to accept that no amount of my interest or ambition can make up the difference.

Where My Health Stands Now

Anyone reading my Life With IBS Substack will already understand the wider context.

I’ve been pursuing MAID (Medical Assistance in Dying) because of my chronic IBS, and I expect final approval soon. Up to this point, my goal was simply to have the choice be mine. I plan to have the procedure in April. Knowing that timeline has forced me to decide what to do with the months I have left.

My Focus for the Months Ahead

My priority now is to make sure Mom has everything she needs after I’m gone, finish writing my memoir, which I am considering posting on my personal Substack blog. I will also give myself space to handle the emotional and practical realities ahead, and do things I enjoy in the time I have left.

A Thank You to Those Who Supported Me

I appreciate the people who supported me while I tried to make this business work through its iterations, whether through reading what I wrote, watching my videos, or simply caring enough to follow along.

I will continue to post occasional thought pieces on my personal Substack, and updates on my IBS blog. I will not delete this website, and I hope many find value in the content I have posted here.

First, I want to extend a huge thank you for being a paid subscriber and supporting my home business. I really mean that. You’re letting me do what I love: helping people, sharing practical tech tips, and creating content that makes technology feel a little more manageable for everyone.

This is my first newsletter just for paid subscribers, and I’m genuinely excited to share it with you. As inspired by Paul Thurrott’s paid newsletter, I don’t want to be boxed into a rigid format. Each monthly issue will evolve over time, sometimes short, sometimes long, but always personal and useful.

Some months, I might answer your questions. Other times, I’ll share reflections, what I’ve been reading, watching, or testing in the Apple or Windows world. Think of this newsletter as a relaxed space, and a place where I can share what’s caught my attention lately.

I’ll be honest, it’s been a hectic month. This is very rare, but I haven’t published any new paid posts. I have been working on several paid how-to guides for people who prefer one-time purchases over subscriptions, along with some new free posts and a couple of videos.

🖥️ The Truth About Switching to Linux for Regular People

In this post, I addressed the recent hype about switching to Linux given the regular end of support for Windows 10. Enroll in the FREE Extended Security Updates program instead.

I’m asking people to NOT rush out and replace Windows 10 or 11 with Linux Mint. I used Linux Mint full-time for two months, and while I admire what the community is building, there are plenty of real-world frustrations that you don’t see in those “just switch” videos online, which often cherry-pick the best features.

It’s better to clean up Windows 10 and make it run better, and without all the junk Microsoft includes by default. That’s where tools like Windows Toolbox ($15 CAD) shine. It’s one of the simplest, safest ways to declutter your system and extend the life of your PC well beyond 2025, especially when paired with Microsoft’s begrudgingly offered Extended Security Updates program.

Read More

What I’ve Been Watching or Listening To

I’ve been catching up on Alberta @ Noon, Cross Country Checkup, and Real Talk, all great for hearing what people across the province (and country) are thinking about current events.

One recent Alberta @ Noon episode, “What Are You Watching?”, sparked discussions about shows like The Diplomat and Task. I tried Task — didn’t care for it.

If I’d called in, I’d have recommended Mobland and The Pitt. Both were outstanding. Mobland (Pierce Brosnan, Tom Hardy, Helen Mirren) was incredibly underrated and deserved more praise.

The Pitt, which won several Emmys in September for its first season, left a lasting impression. It’s gritty, authentic, and surprisingly heartwarming. If you watch anything this year, make it this. Season 2 starts in January.

For podcasts, I’ve enjoyed Where Everybody Knows Your Name (hosted by Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson). Their chat with Mark Ruffalo was terrific. Also worth a listen: Happy Sad Confused with Sigourney Weaver, who shared great stories about Alien and teased an upcoming project. She also shared her apparent praise for Alien: Earth, which I didn’t care for, and Alien: Romulus, which I enjoyed.

As for movies, Wick is Pain (John Wick documentary), Daddio (terrible name, great film), and Rebel Ridge are worth your time. Nobody 2? Not so much. It’s been a rough year for standout movies.

Book-wise, Michael J. Fox’s new one, Future Boy, is excellent. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how Back to the Future came to be.

Recent Paid How-To Guides ($5 – $10)

• 🧹 System Cleanup How-To Guide (PDF)

• 💻 How to Set Up Emby on Mac (PDF)

• 📺 Emby App on Roku How-To Guide (PDF)

• ▶️ YouTube App on Roku How-To Guide (PDF)

A Surprising, But Wonderful Conversation

A lady stopped by recently to buy an item listed on Kijiji. Somehow, we ended up talking tech (a rabbit hole I usually try to avoid). Right before she left, she brought up password managers.

Naturally, I had to follow up with a couple of my favorite recommendations:

• Bitwarden — Free for personal use (this is what Mom uses).

• 1Password — My personal choice, and well worth paying for.

I’ll have a blog post and video about this soon, but I wanted you to hear the story here first.

Here’s my FREE How To Guide walking you through BitWarden:

Here’s my FREE Ho-To Guide walking you through 1Password:

Please consider buying me a coffee if you find these free guides valuable.

Closing Thoughts

This first paid newsletter is really a reflection of what I want this space to be, a blend of useful how-to content and personal reflections.

Once again, thank you for caring enough about my work to pay for it. You’re the reason my home-based business exists, and your support gives me the freedom to keep things “Refreshingly Simple”.

Email me directly with any questions or concerns using supporters@kevinthetechguy.ca, and I’ll prioritize your emails. Even if I don’t respond, I’ll consider your thoughts while creating future content.

Let’s imagine we’re sitting in your home, at your dining room table. I consider that to be an immense privilege. You’ve asked me for my honest thoughts on all the online talk about switching to Linux, especially Linux Mint. You’ve seen some videos and read a couple of blog posts about how it’s time to ditch Windows and “finally be free.” So what’s my take on it?

You want the truth, not a sales pitch, not tech jargon, and not a bunch of buzzwords. So here it is, straight from me, the same way I’d tell a friend or a client in their own home.

Windows 11 is hot garbage “out of the box”. It takes significant effort to remove the bloat and make it usable, so I can’t recommend it. Clean up Windows 10 using Windows Toolbox ($15CAD), or have someone you trust do it for you and you’ll be fine.

Why I’m Frustrated with the “Just Switch” Crowd

The supposed end (it’s NOT) of Windows 10 support has passed. Extended Security Updates are still available, but not new features. I’ve watched a growing wave of YouTubers and bloggers pushing Linux like it’s the holy grail of computing.

They tap into people’s real frustrations with Windows, the ads, the telemetry, the forced sign-ins, the annoyances, the frustrations, and all the junk Microsoft keeps cramming in. I get it. I’m frustrated too.

But the way some of these creators spin it? It’s reckless. They make it sound like you’ll install Linux Mint and suddenly your problems are gone.

They never tell you what happens after the camera stops rolling, when you’re sitting there, alone, trying to make something work.

That’s not honesty. That’s clickbait. They’re trying to make some YouTube money.

I Used Linux Mint Full-Time For Two Months

I didn’t test Linux Mint for an afternoon and make a reaction video about it. I used it as the operating system on my primary computer for two solid months. And you know what? For the basics, it’s great. It’s lightweight, clean, and familiar enough. You can browse the web, check your email, edit a few photos, and it’ll do fine.

If that’s all you ever do, it might even be better than Windows.

But if you do more than the basics, if you rely on certain apps, use peripherals, or expect things to “just work,” Linux Mint will test your patience faster than you can say “sudo apt install.”

I recently installed Linux Mint on a secondary computer I use for testing just to keep up on it, because I really do hope Linux takes over one day.

When People Say “Just Use Wine or Bottles,” Here’s What That Really Means

People want to run Windows apps on Linux, so let’s clear this up.

Wine and Bottles are programs that TRY to run Windows apps on Linux. They allow you to run Windows apps on Linux, though that doesn’t always work, and those Windows apps certainly aren’t designed to be operated that way, and for some very simple apps, they might get away with it. But most of the time? Things break or crash, at least when I tried it.

If you depend on a Windows-only app, Wine and Bottles aren’t magic, they’re a gamble. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don’t, and when they don’t, you’re the one paying the price in wasted time and frustration wishing you were still using Windows.

The Command Line Isn’t for Everyone, and That’s Okay

Linux fans love to say how easy it is now, but let’s be honest. Once you step outside what’s available in the app store, you will eventually be told to open the terminal and “just run a few commands.” I’d never tell one of my clients, or my mom, or you, to do that.

The command line is powerful, sure, but it’s not user-friendly. It’s a different language, and the idea that regular people should have to use it for everyday tasks is ridiculous.

My Deal Breakers

Here’s what finally made me throw in the towel:

• Dropbox and Google Drive refused work or sync. No matter what I tried, they just didn’t behave. That’s not a minor issue, that’s a deal-breaker. I depend on Dropbox every day.

• Zoom scheduling didn’t work either. I had to go back to my Windows computer to schedule the meeting, then jump back to Linux Mint just to join it.

That’s the kind of nonsense these “switch now” videos never show you. They make it look effortless. It’s not.

Hardware Support Is Still a Mess

Windows has its flaws, but at least when you plug something in, it’s very likely to just work. Printers, cameras, USB devices, whatever. On Linux, you’re praying someone wrote a driver for your exact model, and that it still works.

It’s 2025. You shouldn’t have to roll dice to make your printer work.

Developers Follow the Numbers

Here’s the reality. Around 75% of desktop users run Windows. Maybe 2–3% use Linux. Mac has a decent share as well. Developers focus on where the users, and the money is.

It’s not bias, it’s business. So apps like Zoom, Skype, and even Chrome are more stable and fully featured on Windows. The Linux versions lag behind and break more often. Things tend to work well on the Mac as well.

Pretending that’s not the reality is just straight up lying to people.

Open Source Is Great, But It’s Not Always Enough

I love open-source software. But replacing your tools isn’t always that simple.

LibreOffice is good and I’ve used it along with Google Docs for years, since I don’t need the horsepower of Microsoft Office, but it’s also not fully featured.

GIMP is powerful, but it’s not Photoshop.

The question isn’t, “Can I make this work?” It’s, “Will this work for what I actually need to do?”

Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes it’s no. But the “just use open-source alternatives” argument ignores that people have workflows, habits, and needs.

Why I Went Back to Windows 10

After two months, I went back to Windows 10. Not because I love it, but because it works. My software works, my hardware works, my sync tools work. And with a few third-party utilities I’ve talked about before, like Windows Toobox. we can strip out the telemetry, remove the bloat, and make Windows behave.

Would I rather not have to do that? Absolutely. But I’ll take an afternoon of setup and cleanup over weeks of frustration trying to make Linux act like Windows.

You Don’t Have to Panic About Windows 10

There’s so much fearmongering right now about Windows 10 reaching end of life.

Relax. You can enroll in Microsoft’s free Extended Security Updates through October 2026.

If you want extra coverage, 0patch costs about $37 a year and gives you ongoing security fixes, even ones Microsoft doesn’t consider priorities.

Why I Didn’t Put Linux on My Mom’s Laptop

I considered it. I really did. My mom travels for months at a time doing house and pet sitting in her retirement, and I didn’t want to be doing remote tech support every week and fighting Linux. So I bought her a MacBook Air instead, and it’s been rock solid.

That’s the ultimate test for me. If I wouldn’t put Linux Mint on my own mom’s laptop, why would I recommend it to strangers on YouTube, or on my website?

Who Linux Mint Is Actually For

Linux Mint is perfect for enthusiasts, hobbyists, and people who like tinkering with their systems. It’s great for experimenting, learning, or running a lightweight setup.

But for regular users, people who just need things to work, it’s NOT READY YET.

And the people pretending otherwise? In my view, they’re being dishonest. They’re chasing outrage clicks, engagement, and YouTube money. They’re not looking out for you.

The Bottom Line

Look, I want Linux to succeed. I really do. But it’s not there yet, not for the average user. Switching just because you’re mad at Microsoft will only trade one headache for another.

If you’re on Windows 10, stay there. Clean it up, and enroll in the ESU program. If you’re on Windows 11, I recommend the same cleanup tools. And if you’re still tempted by Linux, go in with your eyes open and be seriously willing to learn, and be honest with yourself if you’re not. If you switch to literally anything, I’d recommend the Mac.

Over the two years, I’ve experimented with a bit of everything. How-To Guides, newsletters, thought pieces, and videos, trying to find the right balance between what I love doing and what people will pay for. It’s been a lot of trial and error, but I sincerely hope I have finally found a direction that feels right.

The simple truth is that YouTube needs to come first. That’s where people actually go when they’re searching for help with their technology. Whether it’s Windows, Mac, or iPhone, I can reach far more people by showing them what to do instead of just writing about it.

So that’s the plan going forward. I will change it up on a weekly basis. Some weeks will be a how-to video, other weeks will be a couple of YouTube Shorts, and I’ll do Ask Kevin videos as well.

Writing has always helped me think things through clearly, and it still has a place in what I do, but in a more focused way.

From now on, my writing will mainly support my videos. Summaries of my videos. I will publish my free Substack newsletter for three weeks each month. I’ll share what I’ve done lately, quick reflections, and other tips.

For those who want to support my work directly, I will soon offer a paid monthly newsletter (next week). This allows me to share more detailed commentary and personal opinions about where technology is heading and what’s actually worth paying attention to.

Paid subscribers will also receive occasional bonus blog posts and think pieces.

I am discontinuing my paid how-to guides currently available as PDF downloads. The need is there, and I loved creating them. However, given the time and effort involved, it is no longer a practical and realistic use of my time. Part of the issue is also that some people have difficulty with the purchase process, downloading the files, and opening them.

Video is simply a better medium for what I’m trying to teach, and everyone knows how to use YouTube, so my focus will be on doing that. Every tutorial I make will now have that same step-by-step clarity, just in a visual, more accessible format.

This new structure keeps things simple and realistic:

• Regular YouTube videos covering Windows, Mac, and iPhone.

• A weekly free newsletter that ties everything together.

• A monthly paid newsletter with deeper reflections and commentary.

I have a couple of other ideas I’m excited about and working on that will tie in nicely with this plan, and I’ll announce those if and when they happen.

This is a setup I can maintain, and one that lets me keep helping people while still enjoying the work, and yes, making money. If that sounds like your kind of content, I’d love for you to become a paid subscriber and support me on this journey as I strive to always make tech refreshingly simple.

I mostly took a break from recording and writing this week to help my Mom prepare for her winter-long house and pet sitting. That included a couple of how-to guides for her.

Next week, I’ll post a video about my thoughts (paid Substack subscribers will see it first) on the trendy push to get people to use Linux that I DO NOT agree with as Windows 10 support “ends” (it didn’t). For now, check out my blog post and video about enrolling in the Extended Support program for free, and you’ll get another year of security updates. You’re fine. Don’t panic and don’t fall for those preying on your emotional reaction.

Something Useful

That text you got about a Rogers lawsuit isn’t a scam | Hanomansing Tonight

According to the CBC, many Canadians recently received a text message about a class-action lawsuit against Rogers, and while it may look like a scam, it was actually legitimate.

The lawsuit stems from the major Rogers outage in April 2021, which left millions without phone or internet access, including some who couldn’t reach 911. The Superior Court of Quebec authorized the case and ordered Rogers to hand over phone numbers so the law firm Lex Group could notify affected customers by text.

If you were a Rogers customer during that outage, you’re automatically included, so there’s no need to sign up or pay anything. If you prefer not to participate, you must opt out by November 23, 2025.

Rogers argues that it already compensated customers for the one-day loss of service and that the case shouldn’t be nationwide. The lawsuit could take two to three years to resolve, but if successful, customers might receive some monetary compensation.

Something Fun

Why One Company Can Break the Entire Internet

Earlier this week, AWS (Amazon Web Services) had a major outage that took down many websites and apps (Reuters) worldwide for several hours. The problem came from a software bug in Amazon’s automation system that manages its DNS and databases in the US-East-1 region (Virginia). That bug caused parts of the internet to lose track of where to find AWS servers, which broke services that rely on them.

By later that same day, Amazon fixed the issue and everything was mostly back to normal. The outage showed again how a single failure at a big cloud provider can ripple across the internet, since so many companies depend on AWS for their apps, websites, and devices. It will be interesting to see what lessons are learned from this and what changes are made.

ICYMI

• Kevin’s Picks: Why Clever Cleaner is the Best iPhone Cleanup App I Have Ever Used

• Reset Windows 11: What You Need to Know Before You Do It

• Here’s Every App I Pay For On My iPhone. Are They Worth Your Money?

Closing Thoughts

With this new direction, you’ll get clear, visual step-by-step YouTube videos, and thoughtful insights through focused newsletters.

This week’s newsletter includes two news stories I think you’ll find useful. The first looks at the text message many Canadians received about a Rogers class-action lawsuit. It turned out to be real, not a scam. If you were affected by the 2021 outage, you’re already included and don’t have to do anything unless you want to opt out. It’s a good example of how official messages can sometimes look suspicious, especially when they arrive by text.

The second story explains what went wrong during the AWS outage that briefly interrupted access to several major websites and apps. A software error in Amazon’s systems caused the problem, and while it was fixed quickly, it showed how dependent many services are on a single provider.

That’s it for this week. Thanks for taking time out of your day to check out my home business and newsletter. Have a good weekend. :)

Upgrade to Paid

I had a lovely and very enjoyable conversation this week on Zoom with David Lombard, who operates a non-profit in southern California called The Laptop Elf. He told me that they are a small operation, and purposely don’t have a big footprint online and are hard to find due to their localized approach, so they don’t have a website, but do have a Facebook page.

We decided not to record it this time and just enjoy each other’s company. We intend to record future conversations. I first learned about David’s non-profit when he called into The Tech Guy radio show/podcast many years ago and he impressed me. The show's name changed to Ask The Tech Guys before it was discontinued when Leo semi-retired. Last year, I finally reached out to him to be a guest on my podcast at the time, and we finally got together to chat this week.

He stated in an email that he wanted to chat about the end of support for Windows 10, and to discuss Chromebooks. His organization collects, refurbishes, and donates those devices to those in need.

We agreed that Windows 11 has become overly complicated for many users. Between ads, data tracking, and the requirement to sign in with a Microsoft account, it often feels like you’re maintaining and fighting Windows more than using it. While Linux attracts people seeking freedom from those restrictions, it introduces its own set of challenges. Linux is NOT a drop-in replacement for Windows.

I link to my thought piece about that below. Please note that the blog post exists on my personal Substack, not on my business website. If you appreciate it, please support my home business.

I’ll be the first to point out that Mac computers are more expensive. That said, both Mom and I found monthly payments through either Best Buy or Amazon to be affordable.

Once I set up Mom’s MacBook Air, which may have taken an hour, she has rarely needed help with it. Most importantly, you spend less time managing the nonsense and addressing frustrations (very little) and more time getting things done.

For anyone who wants to move on from Windows without taking on the complexity and huge learning curve of Linux, MacOS currently offers the most balanced and dependable experience. I will never purchase a Windows laptop again, but I do have recommendations if you plan to.

To quickly reiterate what I’ve said before. I’m not a fanboy of anything. I believe in using the best tool or app for the job. That’s why I use Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android on a daily basis depending on the task.

How To Guides

I’ve started creating a new series of paid How-To Guides for individuals who prefer learning at their own pace, featuring clear and reliable instructions that you can follow from start to finish. These guides cover the same practical topics I walk through in my videos, such as cleaning up your computer and setting up Emby, in a printable, easy-to-follow format that you can keep forever.

Each guide is written in plain language, designed so you can follow along step-by-step without getting lost in jargon or unnecessary detail. You don’t need to pause a video or scroll through comments looking for that one step you missed. Everything’s right there in front of you, organized and ready whenever you need it.

They’re available now for one-time purchases starting at $5, so you only pay once for the guides that interest you most. Whether you’re setting up a new system, helping a family member get comfortable with their Roku, or just want to understand your tech better, these guides are made to save you time, and a few headaches along the way.

See below for a couple of examples of those guides. Thank you for supporting my home business.

What’s on Tap

I’ve Been Debloating Windows Since 2012 (Windows 8). Here’s Why Linux Still Isn’t the Answer

If you’re frustrated with Windows 11’s limitations but not ready to switch to Linux (nor should you, in my opinion), this post offers practical ways to keep your computer fast, private, and reduce frustrations. We shouldn’t have to spend time and energy doing these things, but we do.

Every release of Windows since Windows 8 has added a fresh layer of “features” no one asked for. Pre-installed games, ads disguised as “suggestions”, and seemingly forced logins to Microsoft accounts. The process of disabling telemetry, uninstalling bundled software, and more takes a solid afternoon, but switching to Linux just isn’t a viable option for most people, despite what the videos chasing views and YouTube money tell us.

Read More

System Cleanup How-To Guide - $10

Learn how to clean up your Windows PC the proper way using safe, proven apps. This guide shows exactly what to change, what to skip, and how to keep your system running smoothly.

After over twenty years in the IT industry, I’ve learned that a proper System Cleanup goes far deeper, and doesn’t need to be done often. It’s about understanding WHY it’s slowing down, and how to safely put things back in order without breaking anything in the process.

Read More

How To Setup Emby on Mac - $5

This guide explains how to set up Emby to better organize your media library and makes everything simple to find and play.

This step-by-step Emby Setup How-To Guide shows you exactly how to set up Emby on your desktop or laptop (Mac in this example) so it runs smoothly in the background and connects properly to your Roku. I created it for my Mom, but it’s written for anyone who wants to stream their media library at home in this way.

Read More

Why Paying $5 Once Makes More Sense Than $20 Every Month

This week, I wrote a response to a cybersecurity journalist who shared excellent advice on staying safe online, including using a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication, and installing an ad blocker. I agreed with every word of that part. But then, ironically, the rest of his thoughtful piece was locked behind a $20 USD per month subscription, which works out to nearly $30 CAD or $600 per year.

In my post, I argued that the solution isn’t endless subscriptions, it’s flexibility. Many readers, including me, would gladly pay a $5 one-time fee for a well-written article.

That’s fair to the creator and realistic for the audience. On my own site, I’ve built that model by offering my How-To Guides for $5 and $10 each on Buy Me a Coffee and Ko-Fi, giving readers a way to support my work without another recurring charge.

Read More

Kevin’s Picks: The Fastmail Desktop App

When Fastmail released its new desktop app this week, I installed it right away. There are versions for Mac, Windows, and Linux. It looks exactly like the web version, but it solves one of my biggest frustrations, it stays signed in. No more session timeouts in a web browser or repeated logins after short breaks.

Read More

Closing Thoughts

Thanks for reading and for continuing to support what I do, whether that’s by subscribing, purchasing a guide, watching my videos, or sharing a post with someone who could benefit from it. Every bit of support helps me keep creating the kind of practical, no-nonsense tech content that’s made for regular people, not tech enthusiasts.

Talking with David of The Laptop Elf this week reinforced that point for me. His work with The Laptop Elf is a great example of how small, local efforts can make a real difference without needing flashy websites or marketing budgets. It’s about solving everyday problems with a sense of purpose, helping people get access to working computers so they can stay connected, learn, and get things done.

A moment that sticks out to me from that chat was near the end. He got a text message from an 80-year-old client desperate for his help with a printer issue. We both hate printer issues, but we reminded each other to stay humble and grateful for those navigating technology, and that they trust us enough to reach out for help. (for the record, I don’t do on-site or remote support myself).

That’s the same approach I take with my guides, videos, and posts. I want to make technology feel manageable and approachable, especially for those who just want things to work without extra hassle. I’m looking forward to recording future conversations with David, and sharing those with you.

Please Support My Work

I can’t do this work without your support. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/mo or $30/yr. I can’t do this work without you.

Upgrade to Paid

Purchase My How To Guides

When Fastmail released its new desktop app this week, I installed it right away. There are versions for Mac, Windows, and Linux. It looks exactly like the web version, but it solves one of my biggest frustrations, it stays signed in. No more session timeouts in a web browser or repeated logins after short breaks.

I have previously used Betterbird (a fork of Thunderbird) and more recently Mailbird. I’m not thrilled with either. Both are free, but Mailbird tries to trick you into upgrading for features you may not need.

Designed for the Desktop

The desktop app integrates more cleanly with your computer. You can set it as your default mail app, receive native desktop notifications, and close it while it continues running quietly in the background. It feels consistent, efficient, and better aligned with how people actually use their devices.

Practical, Though Not Without Issues

Some users have fair criticisms. Because it’s built on Electron, the app uses more system memory than a traditional native client, but I haven’t noticed a performance hit on my computer (7 years old). A few Mac users have reported mild lag or display quirks, and others wish Fastmail had focused on improving filtering or search instead. Still, those drawbacks don’t outweigh the convenience it brings.

An Upgrade That Simplifies Everyday Use

The Fastmail desktop app doesn’t change how the service looks or operates, it simply removes the barriers from always having the web app open in a tab. You stay signed in, and it blends more naturally into your daily routine. If you’ve been frustrated by the web version logging you out, this new option fixes that.

That said, it is version 1.0, so it’s not perfect and is lacking features at this point that I’m sure they’ll address.

If you want to watch YouTube on your Roku, but hesitate because you don’t know how to use it, this guide makes it easy. I walk you through every step, from opening the app to exploring the home screen, recommendations, and the latest videos from the channels you subscribe to.

You’ll learn how to use the buttons on your Roku remote to navigate with confidence, such as turning on captions, liking a video, saving it for later, and accessing other features. Each step is explained clearly, so you always know what to press and what to expect on screen the first time.

Whether you’re helping a family member get comfortable with Roku or just want to skip the frustration yourself, this guide keeps things simple and to the point. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to open, browse, and enjoy YouTube on your Roku.

Price: $5

Purchase on Buy Me A Coffee

This step-by-step guide walks you through exactly how to open, navigate, and watch your Movies and TV shows on the Emby app using your Roku.

Every page includes real screenshots (taken from my mom’s setup) with clear, plain-language instructions that match what you’ll see on your own screen. No jargon and no guesswork. Which buttons to press, what to expect on each screen, and how to get back if you end up somewhere else.

It’s designed to be refreshingly simple, so even if you’re new to Roku or Emby, you’ll feel confident from the very first step.

Please note: this guide assumes Emby is already set up on your desktop or laptop, where your media collection is stored.

The Roku app connects to that computer to display and play your collection. If you have not yet setup the Emby app on your Roku, please refer to that guide (also $5) coming very soon.

Price: $5

Purchase on Buy Me A Coffee

Plex used to be the go-to tool for enjoying your own collection of TV shows and movies. However, after their September 2025 redesign, it became cluttered, confusing, and full of distractions that obscured personal libraries beneath ads and streaming promotions. That was the breaking point for me—and the reason I created this guide.

This step-by-step Emby Setup How-To Guide shows you exactly how to set up Emby on your desktop or laptop (Mac in this example) so it runs smoothly in the background and connects properly to your Roku. I created it for my Mom, but it’s written for anyone who wants their media library back in plain sight, without all the noise.

Inside, you’ll learn how to:

Download, unzip, and install Emby the right way

Add it to startup so it runs quietly in the background

Stop it from opening your browser every time your computer starts

Confirm that Emby is running correctly

Fix Roku connection issues such as the dreaded 403 error)

Create a safe, regular user account for streaming

I wrote this guide to be clear, practical, and refreshingly simple, because I know how frustrating it is to waste hours troubleshooting when you just want to watch your shows.

If you’re ready to move away from Plex’s mess and set up a media server that actually respects your library and makes it easy to navigate, this guide will walk you through it step by step.

Price: $5

Purchase on Buy Me A Coffee

If your computer has been feeling slower lately, you’ve probably done what most people do, including deleting a few old files, emptying the Recycle Bin, and maybe even ran one of those “quick fix” cleanup programs. Unfortunately, that’s not really a proper cleanup. It’s like dusting the house when it needs a top-to-bottom cleanup and organization.

After over twenty years in the IT industry, I’ve learned that a proper System Cleanup goes far deeper, and doesn’t need to be done often. It’s about understanding WHY it’s slowing down, and how to safely put things back in order without breaking anything in the process.

Price: $10

Purchase on Buy Me A Coffee

Sleep and Hibernation: The Hidden Interrupters

One of the first things I address in my guide is something most people never think about. Sleep and hibernation settings. These power-saving features are helpful when you’re stepping away from your desk, or saving battery power while on the go, but they can interrupt your cleanup.

Antivirus: Less Is Usually More

There’s a lot of unnecessary fear and confusion around antivirus software. I’ve walked into homes where people have three or four different security programs all fighting for control, or a trial version that no longer works, and ironically, slows the computer to a crawl.

Windows Defender is built right into Windows 10 and 11 and is often all you need. It’s fast, lightweight, and effective in most cases.

A key takeaway is that if your computer is infected, removing the virus or malware doesn’t undo the damage that has been done, and there’s no way to know what was done. It’s time to back up your data and do a full reset or reinstall. An antivirus needs to catch and kill the virus BEFORE it infects your computer.

Apps That Actually Help When Used Properly

There are a few reliable tools that can genuinely improve system performance — if you know how to use them.

I walk you through programs like Advanced SystemCare, CCleaner, PatchMyPC, and Driver Booster. These are solid utilities, but they’re not magic. Used carelessly, they can remove files or registry entries that are better left alone.

That’s why my guide focuses on the safe use of them, which settings to leave alone, which options to disable, and how to achieve real results without risk. I’ve seen too many “optimization” apps cause more problems than they solve. My goal is to help you avoid that.

Updates, Drivers, and Startup Apps

Many people ignore Windows Updates until their system starts misbehaving, which is why Microsoft has made them mostly automatic. Updates play a crucial role in keeping your PC secure and stable. The same applies to hardware drivers. Those small instruction sets enable your system to communicate with your devices.

In the guide, I cover how to manage updates properly, when to install optional drivers, and how to prevent unnecessary restarts. I also show how to clean up your startup list so only the programs you actually use open when you log in. Reducing startup clutter can also enhance performance.

Uninstalling Unnecessary Software

Over time, your computer quietly fills up with software you no longer use, and much of it was never your choice to begin with. Manufacturers love preloading systems with apps and trials you’ll never need because they make money when they do that.

In my guide, I show you how to find and safely remove these programs without breaking essential Windows features. You don’t have to uninstall everything, just the stuff that clutters up your menus, drains resources, or nags you with pop-ups. It’s one of the most satisfying parts of the cleanup process.

Putting It All Together

This isn’t a collection of random tips. It’s a full, step-by-step process I’ve refined over years of hands-on work. I have used these same methods during New System Setups and Tune-ups for my clients. The goal is simple. A fast, reliable, and clutter-free computer that stays that way.

Every step is written in plain English, without jargon, and no unnecessary “tech speak.” Whether you’ve done some of this before or it’s your first time, you’ll know exactly what to do, when to do it, and why it matters.

Conclusion

With this guide, you’ll learn how to maintain your system properly, recognize which apps to trust, avoid the mistakes that lead to frustration later, and reduce the lifespan of your computer.

You can pick up the System Cleanup How-To Guide on my Ko-Fi or Buy Me a Coffee pages.

The video version will soon be available on my YouTube channel, if it’s not already there when you’re reading this. I’ve also written a series of related blog posts at KevinTheTechGuy.ca, which you can explore further if you'd like to delve into any of these steps in more detail.

If you find value in this How To Guide, please consider supporting my work.

How To Guides

I can’t do this work without your support. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/mo or $30/yr, or purchasing one of my How To Guides, starting at $5.

I’ve been helping people with their tech for over 20 years, and one thing I’ve learned is that not everyone wants to sit through videos, search endless forums, or become a monthly subscriber.

That’s why I have started creating straightforward paid How-To Guides, starting at $5 each. They’re written in conversational plain language (NOT by AI), designed for everyday users, and get right to the point so you can solve problems quickly without the fluff. Some have already called them “refreshingly simple”.

Alongside the free tips and paid subscriber content I share here, I am building a collection of downloadable and printable guides available on Ko-Fi. These digital files walk you through specific setups and fixes step by step. They’re perfect if you’d rather follow a clear guide at your own pace, or even print one off to keep beside your computer or on your coffee table.

Here’s what to do: open Windows Backup, sign in with your Microsoft Account, and back up your Settings. They could certainly make the process more straightforward, but my video and blog post walk you through it.

You don’t need OneDrive installed, and you don’t have to back up your Desktop or Documents. Once that’s done, hit “enroll” in Windows Update when that appears, and Windows will recognize that has been done and automatically enroll your PC in Extended Security Updates (ESU) through October 13, 2026.

A few extra details are worth knowing:

• The ESU license is linked to your Microsoft Account, and you can use it on up to ten different PCs on the same Microsoft Account.

• The free options only apply to consumer devices. Businesses will still have to pay for extended updates.

If you’re looking for alternatives, there are two main ones worth mentioning:

Get 0patch: This is a paid, third-party option that may continue offering protection long after Microsoft stops supporting Windows 10. They’re promising five years. It delivers small in-memory patches that fix security flaws without requiring reboots, including those in Windows that Microsoft doesn’t consider a priority. 0Patch also patches third-party software. I have used it for over a year.

Switching to Linux: I’ve spent time with Linux Mint, and while it’s come a long way, I still don’t think it’s the right fit for most everyday users. It’s great for basic computing, but things start to get tricky when you need specific software, better hardware compatibility, or just want everything to work seamlessly without adjustments or being forced to inevitably use the Terminal (Command Line).

I’ve said it before, but as far as I’m concerned, many of those recommending Linux on YouTube aren’t doing so in good faith when they talk about regular users. They care about making a few bucks from YouTube views. I strongly believe Linux is for enthusiasts, not regular people.

Upgrading to Windows 11: I’m not here to defend Microsoft. My passion lies with the everyday users. We’re often subjected to corporate decisions that seem to overlook our needs.

In this blog post, I take a direct look at how Windows 11 has shifted away from respecting user choice. It’s not just about small irritations; it’s about how decisions like mandatory telemetry, bundled apps, Microsoft Account sign-ins, and Edge and OneDrive integrations have made Windows feel more restrictive and annoying, ultimately serving Microsoft’s bottom line.

I share ways to work around these barriers, using tools such as the Windows Toolbox to remove unwanted software and Rufus to bypass hardware checks, as well as alternatives like Dropbox (versus OneDrive) and LibreOffice, which are not tied to Microsoft’s ecosystem.

My goal isn’t just to complain, but to clarify what’s actually happening with Windows 11 and how we can utilize clear, practical steps to reduce frustrations, despite the fact we shouldn’t have to spent time and energy doing these things, or potentially money paying a tech to do it for you.

In my video, I also go into why Microsoft’s approach feels unnecessarily complicated and not exactly user-friendly. In the EU, companies can’t get away with forcing users into these kinds of hoops. Here in Canada and the U.S., we’re stuck with them. Still, backing up Settings through your Microsoft Account is a small price to pay to extend Windows 10’s life another year.

Why I Moved Mom from Plex to Emby

When Plex rolled out its September 2025 redesign, it stopped being the tool my mom relied on to watch her shows. What used to be simple and familiar was suddenly buried under ads, streaming promotions, and confusing menus. Her carefully organized library was pushed aside, and the redesign turned what should’ve been relaxing into pure frustration.

After testing it myself and seeing the backlash in user forums, I quickly realized Plex wasn’t going to work for her anymore. That’s when I decided to move her over to Emby.

Read More

Upgrading from Windows 10? Here Are My Recommendations for Desktops and Laptops in Canada

If it’s time to get a new computer, here are some of the best laptop and desktop options you can get right now in Canada.

My number one tip is do NOT buy the cheapest PC. Many computers under $1,000 aren’t very good, and stay far away from PCs under $500. Walk into the store knowing what you want.

Read More

How Scammers Fool Even the Best of Us, And What To Look Out For

It’s easy to assume scams only happen to people who are careless with their security. But even the most experienced and tech-savvy individuals have been caught off guard. This post shares real-world examples, red flags to watch for, and practical ways you can avoid becoming a victim yourself.

Read More

Closing Thoughts

This week’s focus was on extending the life of Windows 10, the practical options available, and how Microsoft’s recent decisions continue to shape the user experience.

My goal is to explain what works, what doesn’t, and how to navigate it with as little confusion as possible.

If you’re keeping Windows 10, backing up your settings through Windows Backup is truly the easiest way to qualify for another year of free security updates.

0patch remains a solid option for ongoing protection once Microsoft stops support entirely, but it’s also very useful in combination with Windows Update.

As for Linux Mint, I’ve tried it, but it still doesn’t fit the needs of most users who expect consistent software compatibility and minimal configuration.

I also covered a few other topics this week. I moved Mom from Plex to Emby after its latest redesign. I shared my recommendations for dependable desktop and laptop options in Canada if you’re upgrading to Windows 11, and I examined how even experienced users can fall victim to online scams, and what warning signs to look out for.

As always, my goal is to help you stay secure, informed, and in control of your technology without unnecessary frustration, all while keeping things refreshingly simple.

Upgrade to Paid

Plex’s Redesign Pushed Me to Switch

When Plex rolled out its September 2025 redesign, it stopped being the tool my mom relied on to watch her shows. What used to be simple and familiar was suddenly buried under ads, streaming promotions, and confusing menus. Her carefully organized library was pushed aside, and the redesign turned what should’ve been relaxing into pure frustration.

After testing it myself and seeing the backlash in user forums, I quickly realized Plex wasn’t going to work for her anymore. That’s when I decided to move her over to Emby.

Why Emby Makes Sense

Emby isn’t flashy, but it does one thing well: it respects your own library. Once set up, it runs quietly in the background, keeps her shows front and center, and avoids the constant interruptions Plex now forces. For my mom, that’s all that matters. She wants stability and simplicity.

The Catch

Getting Emby working on a Mac and Roku wasn’t straightforward. From adding it to startup, stopping the constant browser pop-ups, to fixing Roku’s connection errors, it took hours of trial and error to make it run smoothly.

Her Mac launches Emby automatically, Roku logs in without errors, and she has her library back exactly the way she wants it. She likes using it more than Plex. She has called it “much simpler” and “refreshingly simple”. So that’s a win.

Want the Full How To Guide?

This post is the short version. The full, step-by-step guide is available for a one-time purchase at the link below. All of my paid How-To Guides are also available.

If you’re ready to ditch Plex and switch to Emby, my guides will walk you through every step.

Check out my Shop on Ko-Fi

I haven’t had much of a chance in recent weeks to record and publish YouTube Shorts.

My schedule will become more predictable again after Oct 10th. That said, I found some great iOS and Windows tips below that I think you’ll enjoy!

Windows 10 reaches the end of its official support in October 2025, but there’s a fairly easy way to extend its life another year without paying Microsoft, and it’s not being talked about enough.

Extended Security Updates (ESU) will keep your system protected through October 2026 if you meet one of Microsoft’s conditions.

The simplest option is to back up your settings using Windows Backup. This only takes a few minutes, and you don’t need to install OneDrive to qualify, or be using a Microsoft Account on your computer.

Signing in with your Microsoft Account through Windows Backup is enough to enroll in the free updates and keep your computer secure for another year.

Here’s my detailed blog post about that.

What’s On Tap:

• What’s New in iOS 26

• Fix Battery Drain Issues in iOS 26

• 10 Things You (Probably) Didn’t Know Your iPhone Could Do

• Upgrade Your Windows 10 Computer Even If Microsoft Says No

• Something Fun: 1940s Bell Telephone – an early “mobile” telephone system

Here’s What’s New in iOS 26

Fix Battery Drain Issues in iOS 26

10 Things You (probably) Didn’t Know Your iPhone Could Do

Upgrade Your Windows 10 Computer Even If Microsoft Says No!

Something Fun

1940s Bell Telephone – early cell phone / mobile telephone system

Closing Thoughts

Windows 10 is approaching the end of its official support in October 2025, but Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates provide a straightforward path to stay secure until October 2026.

Running a backup while signed into your Microsoft Account is enough to qualify, and it doesn’t require installing OneDrive or paying for the program. This option isn’t well-publicized, but it gives anyone still on Windows 10 a practical way to extend your system’s life without additional cost.

We also covered fresh tips for iOS 26, including ways to address battery drain, a few things you may not know your iPhone could do, and even a fun look back at one of the earliest mobile telephone systems from the 1940s that was in use, though not widely, until the 1980s when new technology was introduced and cell phones became popular.

Please Support My Work

I can’t do this work without your support. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/mo or $30/yr. I can’t do this work without you.

Upgrade to Paid

In my last post, I outlined the easiest way to qualify for Microsoft’s free year of Extended Security Updates: simply run a backup using the Windows Backup app while signed into your Microsoft Account. That one step is enough to unlock the updates, and it’s a lot simpler than trying to earn enough Rewards points or paying the $30 fee.

Still, this only extends Windows 10 support until October 2026. After that, you’ll need to decide whether it’s time for new hardware. With that in mind, here are some of the best laptop and desktop options you can get right now in Canada.

My number one tip is do NOT buy the cheapest PC. Many computers under $1,000 aren’t very good, and stay far away from PCs under $500. Walk into the store knowing what you want.

Here are the steps I recommend when setting up your new Windows 11 computer.

💻 Canadian Laptop Picks

A few standouts:

• Apple MacBook Air 15‑inch (M‑series) — My absolute top choice. A fast, efficient laptop with all-day battery life and a spacious 15-inch display that makes multitasking smooth and comfortable, and avoids the frustrations that come with Windows 11. A little bit of a learning curve, but I honestly prefer the hardware, and it’s a strong alternative to Windows 11. My Mom, who isn’t tech savvy, caught on to it fairly quickly. You can pay monthly through Amazon or Best Buy (Fairstone).

• Dell XPS 13 Plus — sleek, high build quality, good display.

• HP Spectre x360 14 — flexible 2-in-1 design, touchscreen + pen support.

• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon — rugged, business quality, solid keyboard (good for productivity).

When you check Canadian retailers, look for these specs (or better):

• At least 16 GB RAM

• 512 GB SSD (or more) is recommended, unless you primarily use the browser on your computer. My MacBook Air only has 256GB. It’s just enough for a few select installed apps and files synced with Dropbox. For Windows, you definitely want 512GB.

• Recent generation CPU (e.g. Intel 13th/14th gen, AMD Ryzen 7/9, or Apple M-series)

• Look for good warranty support in Canada (not cash grabs). AppleCare is honestly the best option.

🖥 Desktop / Prebuilt PC Options in Canada

Here are some options currently available in Canadian online and local stores:

Acer Aspire Desktop PC (i5-14400 / 16 GB / 512 GB SSD / Win11) Good general use box ~$699.99

Lenovo IdeaCentre 3i Desktop (i7-14700 / 16 GB / 1 TB SSD / Win11).

Dell Tower Desktop Plus - Expandable, more premium tower. Starting from about CAD $1,249.99 specifically through Dell.

One more mini/compact option worth noting:

• Geekom IT12 Mini PC — 12th-gen Intel i7, 32 GB RAM, Windows 11, compact form factor, often priced around CA $799 on sale in Canada.

🏷 Tips for Buying in Alberta / Canada

• Check local storefronts (Canada Computers, Memory Express, Best Buy, etc.) so you can avoid import/duties and have easier warranty support.

• Watch for “Canada” or “Canada / North America warranty” versions — some laptops are region-locked on warranty.

• Prefer units with DDR5 RAM, PCIe 4/5 SSD, and modern connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt 4) to “future-proof” a bit.

• Confirm the power adapter matches Canadian electrical specs (110–120 V) and plug type (Type B).

• Ask about local service / repair, especially for screens, keyboards or battery replacements down the road.

Please Support My Work

I can’t do this work without your support. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/mo or $30/yr. I can’t do this work without you.

Upgrade to Paid

In a nutshell, here are the options available

• Back up your SETTINGS with Windows Backup

• Redeem Microsoft Rewards points (1,000 points)

• Pay a one-time fee (USD $30 or equivalent in your local currency)

The Easiest Way to Qualify for Free Security Updates

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 users can continue to receive security updates for one more year through Extended Security Updates (ESU). Normally, this comes with a cost, but there is a free option that allows you to qualify if you follow a few conditions.

Many guides simply repeat Microsoft’s instructions verbatim, which can make things sound confusing, especially in the process of doing it. My goal is to clarify what actually needs to be done about backing up Settings, the easiest option in my mind.

The Backup Requirement Explained

One of Microsoft’s steps says you need to “back up your settings to OneDrive using Windows Backup.” That wording implies that you need to install the OneDrive app on your computer. That is NOT the case.

Backing Up Settings Using Windows Backup

Windows Backup is free and built into Windows 10. Search for it, open it, and it prompts you to sign in with your Microsoft Account through Windows Backup. It’s okay if you’re using a Local Account on your computer.

If you haven’t used Windows Backup in a while, or you’re setting it up for the first time, you will need to “verify” your Microsoft Account, which simply means logging into it again.

To do this, click that RETRY button and it’ll bring up your Windows Backup page in Settings. Click that tiny VERIFY link under “Remember my preferences”.

Go through the steps to log in to your Microsoft Account via Windows Backup. If you have two-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) enabled, you’ll go through those steps as well. Pay very close attention to each step.

Go back to the Windows Backup window and hit the BACK UP button at the bottom right. It attempts to back up everything listed. It’ll go through the list, but it will be unable to back up anything except Settings, because, for the sake of this blog post and video, you don’t have OneDrive installed. It’ll call that a “partial backup”. That’s fine.

Backing up Settings is all that is required for ESU eligibility. The process only takes a couple of minutes.

At some point, you should see this appear on the Windows Update page in Settings. It says “Windows 10 support ends in October 2025. Enroll in Extended Security Updates to help keep your device secure”.

Follow the steps, which may include signing in again using your Microsoft Account (this does not affect your Local User Account on the computer, if that’s what you’re using). It will THEN recognize that you’ve backed up your Windows Settings using Windows Backup. Finally, it will tell you “you’re enrolled in Extended Security Updates through October 13, 2026.”

OneDrive is Optional

You only need to install OneDrive back up personal folders such as Desktop, Documents, and Pictures. That is entirely optional. If all you want to do is qualify for the Extended Security Updates, you do NOT need OneDrive installed.

Personally, I HATE OneDrive and refuse to have it on my computer.

Why This Feels User Hostile

The reality is that these requirements are not designed with users in mind. It serves Microsoft shamelessly, and they’ve made those intentions painfully clear in Windows 11, which I, for one, refuse to install on my main computer.

In the European Union, the Digital Markets Act prohibits companies from imposing such conditions. In the United States and Canada, no similar rules apply, leaving us to deal with this.

Conclusion

So, to be clear, you do not need the OneDrive app to qualify for Extended Security Updates on Windows 10. Just sign into Windows Backup with your Microsoft Account, let it back up your Settings, and you will meet Microsoft’s requirement. That quick step gives you another year of free security updates.

It’s been a rough week. I’ll say this much: we rarely realize the work and preparation that goes into something, and we often take the result for granted as a result. I haven’t had the opportunity to get much work done. So I wrote a rebuttal to a recent newsletter I received, and you’ll find links to useful videos below as well. Enjoy.

Why I Don’t Call Every PC Cleaner a Scam

Chris Hoffman recently wrote in his Windows ReadMe newsletter that PC cleaning apps are scams. I tend to be a fan of his work, but I very much dislike blanket statements like that. I agree with him on many points, especially when it comes to scare tactics and overpriced “Pro” features. Registry cleaning in particular is pointless and even risky, if you see that option in Advanced SystemCare or CCleaner, leave it alone.

That said, not all cleaners are worthless. I’ve used the paid version of Advanced SystemCare [paid post] for years and still find it incredibly useful. I cannot recommend the free version due to the upsells and nagging notifications, but the paid app is solid and worth using.

Its System Optimization features make startup management and background processes much easier, and the spyware scanner is far less intrusive than those of other products, such as Malwarebytes, which is for some reason a go-to recommendation by many techs that I will never understand.

Registry cleaning is not something anyone should do. Disable that feature in any app you use. It’s never worth the minimal gain for the risk involved. The registry does not need to be touched. Any tech that recommends doing it should be ignored. Huge red flag.

I am beyond annoyed at how often generally so-called PC experts in general mention resetting or reinstalling Windows like it’s no trouble at all. Unbelievable.

CCleaner [paid post] is more basic, but that’s also its strength. For clearing out junk files and keeping startup items under control, it works well, and it’s free. I would not recommend most PC cleaners on the market, but these two are exceptions. Just don’t use them blindly, tweak the settings, skip the registry tools, and they can actually make life easier.

If you want help setting them up properly, check out my paid subscriber How To Guides where I walk through the settings in detail.

A Quick Note On iOS 26

The reaction to iOS 26 is mixed, but I’m liking the various changes outside of Liquid Glass, which is a gimmick. Some like the new look, but criticize it for being too translucent and difficult to read. Check out my YouTube Shorts for how to mostly disable it, in addition to Home Screen Dark Mode. Look for that Short on Dark Mode soon.

People with older iPhones are experiencing slower performance, increased battery drain, and minor bugs, although some of these issues may resolve in minor updates in the weeks to come.

On the positive side, features like call screening, Hold Assist, clearer charging information, and Apple Intelligence tools are getting good feedback. Overall, many view iOS 26 as an update with useful improvements, but a design change that requires refinement, and some users are waiting before upgrading.

What’s on Tap

• Fix iPhone Battery Drain on iOS 26
  A quick walkthrough on stopping your battery from slipping away faster than it should.

• Shut Down Your iPhone Once a Week – Here’s Why
  A simple habit that can save you from random slowdowns and quirks.

• iOS 26 Customization and Hidden Features
  From Liquid Glass tweaks to Messages updates, plus 30+ hidden gems you’ll actually use.

• Something Useful: How Do QR Codes Work?
  A short, practical explainer you can use the next time someone asks, “What’s actually inside one of these things?”

Fix iPhone Battery DRAIN Now on iOS 26

Shut Down Your iPhone Once a Week - Here’s Why!

iOS 26 NEW Features you NEED to try! | customisation, liquid glass, messages

iOS 26 - 30+ Best HIDDEN Features!

Something Useful

How Do QR Codes Work?

Closing Thoughts

That’s everything for this week. I took the time to delve into my thoughts on the debate surrounding PC cleaners, explaining why I don’t view them all as scams and where tools like Advanced SystemCare and CCleaner can still be useful, provided they’re set up carefully. Blanket statements just aren’t accurate. It’s a topic where strong opinions are common, so I wanted to share a perspective based on real use, not just assumptions. Reply to this email with your thoughts, or comment on the post below.

Additionally, I included several highlights from iOS 26. If you’ve noticed faster battery drain, there are concrete steps to bring it under control. I also explained why shutting down your iPhone once a week makes a difference and pointed out customization options and hidden features that Apple hasn’t exactly gone out of its way to promote.

Finally, I added something useful yet a little different. An examination of how QR codes actually work. They’ve become part of daily life, and it helps to know what’s really happening when you scan one.

Please Support My Work

I can’t do this work without your support. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5/mo or $30/yr. I can’t do this work without you.

Upgrade to Paid

Hi everyone,

Apologies for slight delay. After an unexpected week and a bit off for personal reasons, here’s how things will work going forward.

As much as I don’t want to spend too much time on Windows these days, I think I have found a fair balance between that and my iPhone Shorts. I need to pull more people in and increase paid subscribers, so let’s give this a try. I’ll be focusing on useful tips, not all of the problems Windows has.

Starting in October, my aim is to publish two video newsletters every week. One focused on Windows, and one on the Mac. Five to ten minutes long. I’ll also be posting two or three weekly iPhone Shorts with quick, under-a-minute tips.

This weekly email will go out three times per month, and works as your recap. Instead of separate quick tip blog posts, you’ll find summaries from my video newsletters collected here.

For those who choose a paid subscription, I’ll send out a monthly newsletter at the end of each month. That’s where I will answer subscriber questions directly, and include extra tips and short notes about something I’ve been watching, reading, or using that might have nothing to with tech.

The point all of this is to increase paid subscribers, maybe make some YouTube money eventually, and draw people toward the paid How To Guides I’m working on.

This mix keeps the weekly newsletter simple and useful, and sustainable while the monthly one offers more of a personal look at what I’m working on and thinking about. I’m always open to your thoughts, but paid subscribers take priority.

What’s on Tap

• Quick Tip: Flatten iOS 26’s Liquid Glass — A couple of quick settings will mostly tone down the new visual effects.

• Quick Tip: Try Stacked Notifications — Keep your Lock Screen tidy until you’re ready to swipe up and check alerts.

• Something Useful: iOS 26’s Hidden Gems — More than 30 features Apple didn’t mention on stage, but you’ll want to know about.

• Something Fun: The Internet, 1994-Style — A look back at when email, online news, and digital shopping were brand new ideas.

• ICYMI: My top picks from recent posts, including iPhone cleanup, extending Windows 10 security, and getting started with Windows 11.

Quick Tip: Disable (mostly) Liquid Glass in iOS 26

The Short Version: Don’t like the shiny new Liquid Glass in iOS 26? With a couple of quick settings, you can strip out the shimmer and make your iPhone cleaner and easier to read.

Know More: Not a fan of Apple’s new Liquid Glass look in iOS 26? Here’s how to tone it down. Liquid Glass adds shimmer, blur, and transparency across menus and backgrounds. It’s meant to feel fluid and modern, but it can also be distracting or harder to read. While you can’t disable it completely, you can get close.

• Go to Settings, Accessibility, Display & Text Size

• Turn on Reduce Transparency to replace glassy effects with solid backgrounds

• Turn on Increase Contrast to make colors and text sharper

Those two changes flatten the shiny effects and give you a cleaner, more readable interface, basically disabling most of Liquid Glass without removing it.

Quick Tip: Turn on Stacked (Grouped) Notifications in iOS

The Short Version: iOS’s stacked notifications give you a cleaner look by piling alerts neatly at the bottom until you’re ready to check them. Here’s how to turn it on and why it makes managing notifications so much easier.

Know More: Want your iPhone Notifications to be less cluttered? You can switch your notifications to "Stacked View" or Grouped. Instead of a long list, Stacked View starts off as a neat pile at the bottom of your Lock Screen. Swipe up and you’ll see them grouped by app. Each stack has a little badge showing how many unread notifications you’ve got. Tap the latest one from that app, and the rest of the unread notifications expand right underneath it. Here’s how to set it up:

• Open Settings

• Tap Notifications

• Under Display As, pick Stacked

Now your Lock Screen feels clean, but all your notifications are just a swipe or a tap away.

Something Useful

iOS 26 - 30+ Best HIDDEN Features!

iOS 26 is packed with updates, and Apple showed off a lot of them. But they also left plenty under the radar. In this video, Brandon Butch walks you through over 30 hidden and lesser-known features you can try right now.

Something Fun

Are YOU Ready for the Internet? (1994)

In this 1994 report, Kate Bellingham explores the promise of the “information superhighway”, a future where books, films, and art are instantly accessible. Early services like email, news, and shopping were already emerging, but widespread adoption hinged on replacing Britain’s ageing copper phone lines with high-capacity fibre-optic networks. The question then was whether the UK would invest in the infrastructure needed to unlock this digital revolution.

ICYMI

• Kevin's Picks: Why Clever Cleaner is the Best iPhone Cleanup App I Have Ever Used

• Don’t Want to Upgrade to Windows 11? Here’s How 0patch Can Keep Your Windows 10 Secure Beyond October 2025

• The First Things You Should Do with Your New Windows 11 Computer

Closing Thoughts

Thanks for checking out this week’s newsletter. With the new schedule, the weekly emails will highlight the main tips and videos in one place, while the monthly subscriber edition will go further with direct Q&A, extra tips, and some personal notes on what I’ve been working on or testing.

That all starts in October.

If there’s something you’d like me to cover, just reply to this email and I’ll see it. For paid subscribers, that monthly edition is also where I’ll be focusing on your questions and adding a bit more detail than I fit into the weekly recap.

See you next week!

I ended up taking this week off work due to unexpected personal reasons. So, I was not able to record any YouTube Shorts or write any blog posts. I apologize for that. I’ll pick up on that again next week.

So, this newsletter will focus on past blog posts, some of which include videos, and will focus on both iPhone and Windows. I am no longer focusing on Windows-based content, but I did so for over 20 years, so yes, that exists on my website as well. It’s just not featured prominently on the home page anymore.

This week I’m going back in the archives a bit, from the apps I pay for on my iPhone and why they’ve earned their spot, to setting up emergency contact info that could save time when it matters most. I’ve put together a mix of practical guides and a couple of things just for fun. You’ll also find answers to the biggest Windows 10 questions answered, a clear list of what’s safe to uninstall on your PC, and a look at the new features coming to iOS and iPadOS 26.

What’s On Tap

• Every iPhone App I Actually Pay For — costs, uses, and why they’ve earned a spot on my phone

• How to set up Emergency Contact info on your iPhone Lock Screen — so someone can reach your people when you can’t

• Sending texts via satellite on iPhone or Pixel — yes, even beyond emergencies (paid subscriber post)

• What’s Safe to Uninstall on your Windows PC — and what you should leave alone to avoid breaking things

• Windows 10 support ending in 2025 FAQ — what it really means for your files, apps, and security

• Something Useful: A quick video on iOS 26 & iPadOS 26 — what’s new, what matters

• Something Fun: A quick video on How ChatGPT actually works — explained like you’re five

Here's Every App I Pay For On My iPhone. Are They Worth Your Money?

The Short Version: Here’s a detailed look at every app subscription on my iPhone, what they cost, and why I keep them. If it’s on my list, it’s earned it's place on my phone.

Know More: People often ask me what iPhone apps I pay for and why. It’s a fair question, especially when subscriptions pile up faster than we realize. I regularly review my subscriptions to make sure I’m not wasting money, but the ones that stick around are apps I truly rely on, either for my work or personal routines.

Let me walk you through the apps I’m currently paying for, their costs, what I use them for, and why I think they’re worth it.

Read More

How To Setup Set Up Emergency Contact Information on your iPhone Lock Screen

The Short Version: Make sure your emergency contacts can be reached even if your phone is locked. This quick setup could help others help you when you can’t unlock your phone yourself.

Know More: In this blog post, I will walk you through setting up Emergency Contact Information on your iPhone Lock Screen to save valuable seconds when you may, God forbid, be seriously injured and unable to unlock your phone and call for help in the usual way.

This is also very useful in situations where you may be unconscious. Someone else can call your Emergency Contact without needing to unlock your phone. You could also simply hand your phone to someone, who can do this in unsafe situations.

Read More

How To Send Text Messages via Satellite Using Your iPhone or Pixel (not just during emergencies) [Paid Subs]

The Short Version: When cell service drops for any reason, your iPhone or Pixel can still reach emergency services or loved ones. Here’s how to use satellite messaging.

Know More: Imagine this: you're caught in the aftermath of a natural disaster like Hurricane Milton. Cell towers are down, Wi-Fi is out, and you're completely cut off from the outside world. It's a terrifying scenario, but what if you could still reach out for help or let your loved ones know you're safe?

That's where the magic of satellite messaging comes in. This incredible technology, available on newer iPhones and Pixels, allows you to connect with emergency services or family and friends even when traditional networks fail.

It's worth noting here that although satellite messaging should be reserved for emergency situations to avoid overwhelming that network, it can now be used to message people in your contacts when cell reception isn't ideal during non-emergency situations.

Read More

What’s Safe to Uninstall on Your Windows PC (and What to Leave Alone)

The Short Version: Not sure what’s safe to uninstall on your Windows PC? Here’s a plain-English guide with examples I remove on nearly every system I clean up.

Know More: If your PC feels bloated or sluggish, one of the easiest ways to speed things up is by uninstalling programs you don’t need. But knowing what’s safe to remove and what to leave alone can be stressful when you don’t know what they are, or what they do.

Delete the wrong thing, and you could break something important. Leave too much, and your system stays cluttered.

So, where do you start?

After more than 20 years of helping people clean up their computers, I’ve compiled a clear, plain-English guide to help you determine what to uninstall. It’s written for regular users, not power users.

Read More

What You Need to Know About Windows 10 Support Ending FAQ

The Short Version: Regular support for Windows 10 is ending in 2025, but your computer doesn’t have to be replaced. Here’s what to know and how to keep it secure for another year.

Know More: Windows 10 support officially ends in October 2025. Historically, that means that Microsoft stops providing updates to its current Operating System at the end of a 10-year “lifecycle”. But given the continued heavy use of Windows 10, they’re making some concessions.

That’s raising a lot of questions, and for good reason. People are wondering what will still work, whether their files and apps are safe, and what options they have moving forward. I’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions by clients, those I’ve heard on podcasts, and those I've read in blog posts. I have answered them below, based on my own use and recommendations.

Read More

Something Useful

A Quick Look at iOS 26 & iPadOS 26: What You Need to Know!

Something Fun

Breaking Down How ChatGPT Actually Works - Explained Like You're Five

Closing Thoughts

That wraps up this week’s mix. You’ve got a clear look at the iPhone apps I pay for, a simple way to set up emergency contacts, and how satellite messaging fits in when service drops. On the Windows side, you’ve got guidance on what’s safe to uninstall and what the end of Windows 10 support really means. And for a change of pace, there’s a quick look at iOS 26 and a plain-English breakdown of how ChatGPT works.

Thanks for checking out my newsletter this week. If you’d like to see me continue doing this work, I need your support. Please consider $5 per month or $30 per year.

Upgrade to Paid

Hi everyone,

This week’s lineup is packed with iPhone tips you’ll actually use. iOS 18 now lets you lock or unlock apps with Face ID, so you stay in control what someone sees when they borrows your phone. I’ll also show you how to switch your photos from Apple’s HEIC format to the more compatible JPEG, and share the cleanup app I swear by for freeing up space on my iPhone.

On top of that, I’ve got a quick browser safety test that might make you rethink which app you use to go online, plus a few honorable mentions you don’t want to miss. And in case you missed it, Google is urging Gmail users to change their passwords after a huge breach.

Stick around to the end for something a little lighter. A story about a Maine family who brought back the old landline for their kids, and why it’s catching on.

Oh, and per the image, meet my 9 1/2 year old cat Nala. She decided to distract me for a minute while I was recording this week. :)

—Kevin

What’s On Tap

• 🔒 Lock any iPhone app with Face ID – iOS 18 finally lets you secure the apps you choose, not just the ones developers allow.

• 📸 Switch from HEIC to JPEG – make your photos more share-friendly without dealing with weird formats on your computer.

• 🧹 Clever Cleaner pick – the easiest way I’ve found to clear space and organize cluttered iPhones (and it’s free).

• 🌐 Browser safety check – some browsers shut down scam links instantly, others don’t. Here’s which ones to trust.

• 🛠 Honorable mentions – Proton Authenticator, changing default apps, and keeping an eye on your app subscriptions.

• 📧 ICYMI – Google is telling 2.5 billion Gmail users to update their passwords after a massive breach.

• ☎️ Something fun – meet the Maine family bringing back landlines for their kids, and why other families are joining in.

Quick Tip: Use Face ID to Lock or Unlock Any iPhone App

The Short Version: iOS 18 finally lets you lock any iPhone app with Face ID, not just the ones developers choose. Here’s how to set it up and keep your apps private when you share your phone.

Know More: Ever hand your iPhone to someone and feel uneasy about what they might open? With iOS 18, you can lock any app with Face ID, so only YOU can open those specific apps. Now that app won’t open without your face to confirm it’s you. It’s a quick way to keep your private apps secure, whether you’re lending your phone to family, friends, or coworkers.

Read More

Quick Tip: How To Switch From HEIC Images To JPEG on Your iPhone

The Short Version: iPhones save photos in HEIC to save space and enable features like Live Photos. If you’d rather use the more compatible JPEG format, here’s how to change it.

Know More: In this Quick Tip, I'll show you how to change your iPhone's default image format (HEIC) when saving photos to the more widely compatible JPEG image format. Modern iPhones have plenty of space, and HEIC images can be a pain when they end up on your computer where it's not clear what to do in terms of sharing with people who don't use Apple devices.

You can change the image format to use JPEG/PNG automatically instead.

Read More

Kevin's Picks: Why Clever Cleaner is the Best iPhone Cleanup App I Have Ever Used

The Short Version: Free up space on your iPhone with Clever Cleaner. This app organizes and easily clears duplicates, screenshots, and large files. Early adopters get every feature unlocked at no cost.

Know More: Managing storage on an iPhone is often a challenge. Photos, videos, and screenshots build up quickly, leaving less and less space available. Rich DeMuro of RichOnTech.tv suggested an app called Clever Cleaner, and it is the most effective app I have ever used for organizing and clearing out unnecessary files.

What makes it different is not just the range of features, but also the fact that it is completely free right now with every option unlocked for early adopters, and apparently it will stay that way.

Quick Tip: The Browser That Protects You The Best From Scam Links

The Short Version: A quick test showed big differences in how browsers handle scam links. Some blocked them instantly, while others let them load.

Know More: If you’re on an iPhone and using Safari by default, you might not be as safe as you think. Switching your default browser to Chrome or DuckDuckGo can give you stronger protection against phishing scams, fake shopping sites, and those scary “your device is infected” pop-ups.

Read More

Honorable Mentions:

• Kevin's Picks: Proton Authenticator

• Quick Tip: How to Change Default Apps on Your iPhone (iOS 18.4 and Later)

• Quick Tip: Have You Checked Your App Subscriptions On Your iPhone Lately? Here’s How.

ICYMI:

Google warns Gmail users to change passwords after data breach

Google is warning about 2.5 billion Gmail users to change their passwords or install a passkey following a data breach that has led to a surge in “phishing” email attacks.

Something Fun

Maine mom creates landline pod for her children

A family in Maine is fending off the lure of smartphones by installing an old-fashioned landline for their kids to talk to friends. Now other families are joining in as South Portland’s landline pod is growing.

Closing Thoughts

That wraps things up for this week. iOS 18 now lock apps with Face ID from potential prying eyes.

If photos are more your concern, switching from HEIC to JPEG makes sharing much simpler and takes up much less space on your iPhone, especially when you are sending them to people who do not use Apple devices.

For storage problems, Clever Cleaner is the best app I have found to organize and free up space without much effort, so check that out.

On the security side, choosing the right browser really does matter. Some block scam links immediately, while others let them slip through.

If you are a Gmail user, now is the time to update your password and add a passkey to stay ahead of phishing attempts, or at the very least some kind of 2FA.

To end things on a lighter note, that story about the Maine family who brought back a landline for their kids shows that sometimes simple ideas still work best. Part of me really misses having a landline without the distractions.

I will be back with more useful tips and finds next week.

Your support makes my work possible. Please consider $5 per month or $30 per year.

— Kevin

Upgrade to Paid

Ever hand your iPhone to someone and feel uneasy about what they might open? With iOS 18, you can lock any app with Face ID, so only YOU can open those specific apps.

Here’s how to set it up:

• Long-press on the app icon until the menu appears

• Tap Require Face ID

• Confirm by tapping Require Face ID again

Now that app won’t open without your face to confirm it’s you. It’s a quick way to keep your private apps secure, whether you’re lending your phone to family, friends, or coworkers.