new beta version 18.7.2350 (build 18.7.3994) is released.
We are introducing new style of our settings. The new settings have fresh and simplified modern look and feel. We reduced the number of items so now the most important ones are visible now. The advanced settings have been moved to a secret section named Geek Area, This secret section is available via search - just fill there “geek:area” - whole string has to be written for entrance to the section. Setting are incomplete, couple sections are still in development. We are hungry to hear your feedback, what do you think, do you like them? All your comments, ideas are appreciated and will be discussed by UI team. For discussion about settings use this thread.
New settings main issues, what does not work
The sections “Scan”, “Exceptions” and “Firewall” haven’t been finished yet. But there temporary is a link to old settings.
A protection of AV itself by password doesn’t work properly
In section Troubleshooting the buttons “Backu up settings”, “Restore settings” and “Repair app” don’t work (you can still repair the app via MS control panel → Programs and Features).
A geek section hasn’t been finished yet (there is only a list of settings for DND mode)
First impression of new settings:
Looks a bit crowded but important settings are mostly still there, that is a good thing. And there will be “advanced settings” available.
Overall, I feel this a good design
Some other comments:
[Overall] Layouts got garbled by translations: this needs to be addressed. Reducing font-size might be one of the options.
[General - Blocked & Allowed apps] App paths are not fully shown so cannot determine same apps in deep directory. Popups are at least needed.
[General - Blocked & Allowed apps] Where is “Sensitive Data Shield”?
[Protection - Core Shields - “What to do with”] Now we cannot designate how to treat detected threats other that “Automatic”, “Ask” and “None”.
For my impression “Automatic” (Repair => Chest => Delete) tends to result a data loss because of “Delete” action and that makes angry users, mainly because deleted files tend to be too big to send to the chest and these files cannot be restored by recovering software also because of its size.
If removing designated action settings, “Delete” should be changed to “Block” for automatic operation, IMHO.
At least leave us old designated treatment settings in “Geeks” area.
[Protection - Core Shields - “Configure shield settings”] If I change shields, page scrolls up and down. It’s hard to follow.
[Protection - Scans] I prefer keeping scans settings in current position (Main - Protection - Scans). Adding links will be good enough.
[General - Troubleshooting] Running “Repair” from here is a good way.
[General - Language] Easily reloadable. Good.
[General - Exceptions] All exceptions goes here? Are they merged or separated (i.e. can I make Avast exclude path A for CyberCapture but not for File Shield)?
[Search] Useful to find needed settings, especially for beginners.
Non Geeks won’t like it (Geeks probably won’t like it either) and ‘Geek’ is a very old term and one which is used by non-geeks as a derogatory name/term.
I don’t know what is worse, the name or the implication to keep those out who aren’t geeks. Avast was essentially built around inexperienced users who didn’t feel they needed a computer qualification to use it.
Do that and you are possibly cutting off 80% of Avast users. Most of those visiting the forums seeking help are those you are saying keep out to.
No matter what you call it, it’s something that all nosey users will want to explore.
Mark something as “Keep Out” and everyone wants to get in. It’s a fact of life.
“Advanced Settings” is probably the mildest and easiest to understand term.
The Geek Area literally has no purpose to casual users. Which is why it’s entirely hidden unles you specifically call it via “geek:area” command in the search field of settings…