chat feature Archives

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

This developer squeezed a full Minecraft server onto an ESP32, and it actually works

A developer named angelthebox has created a Minecraft server called Macerun that runs on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, using Minecraft version 1.16.5 rewritten in C. Key features include the ability for players to join the server, explore the world, place and break blocks, procedural world chunk generation, basic crafting mechanics with 2x2 recipes, in-game chat, and tracking of basic physics, health, and hunger. Changes to blocks are saved to the chip's flash memory. However, the server lacks mobs, 3x3 crafting recipes, and the ability to retain player inventories and positions after exiting. The source code is available on the Macerun GitHub page.

AppWizard

April 1, 2026

Why is Korean chatting app KakaoTalk suddenly surging in Russia

The KakaoTalk app is experiencing a surge in popularity in Russia, largely due to the Kremlin's actions against competing messaging services like Telegram, which has faced potential bans and restrictions. KakaoTalk, with an average of 46.35 million monthly active users in South Korea, has risen to the top of Russia's App Store as an alternative after reports of Telegram's functionality issues. Russian authorities are blocking Western messaging services like WhatsApp and Discord, making KakaoTalk a viable option for users seeking privacy. By late March, KakaoTalk reached No. 2 on Russia's App Store and No. 4 in the Social Networking category. Despite needing to comply with South Korean data requests, KakaoTalk's servers being located outside Russia may appeal to privacy-conscious users.

AppWizard

March 31, 2026

Gemini app rolls out new glow on Android and moves Temporary chat

The Gemini overlay on Android has been updated to include a new glow effect that extends to the screen's perimeter, featuring a predominant blue hue with hints of red, green, and yellow. The Temporary chat feature on the web has been redesigned, with its icon moved to the top-right corner for better visibility and usability. Users must return to the homepage to initiate a Temporary chat while in a conversation. These updates are being rolled out to all Gemini accounts on the web, with limited availability on mobile devices. A force stop of the Google app may expedite the rollout of the glow effect on Android devices.

Tech Optimizer

March 31, 2026

Norton Review 2026: Solid Antivirus With Great Safe Browsing Tools and Parental Controls

Norton Antivirus has a score of 8.3/10. It offers extensive parental controls, cloud backups for sensitive data, and a high-quality safe browser. However, its identity theft protection features are limited to US users, it has higher resource usage than competitors, and reaching human customer support can be challenging. Norton provides various cybersecurity tools, including a password manager, safe browser, and privacy monitoring tools. Its antivirus software includes real-time protection, automated scans, and optimization tools for Windows and MacOS. The plans available include Norton AntiVirus Plus, Norton 360 Standard, Norton 360 Deluxe, and Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus, each with varying features and pricing. Norton’s usability is straightforward, and it operates smoothly with moderate resource usage during scans. The service has a strong reputation for malware detection and solid privacy policies, though customer support lacks email options. Overall, Norton is suitable for families and users seeking robust online protection, but alternatives may offer better resource efficiency.

BetaBeacon

March 27, 2026

Netflix is coming for Discord with this social gaming feature

Netflix may introduce a voice chat feature for games, as indicated by findings in the app code. The code snippets suggest that Netflix could be preparing to introduce a Voice Chat feature to its games catalog, enhancing the social gaming aspect of the platform.

AppWizard

December 18, 2025

What replaced secret conversations? Is Messenger encrypted?

Facebook Messenger has discontinued its “secret conversations” feature as part of its transition to default end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for eligible one-on-one chats. E2EE now protects personal messages and media shared within those conversations, including audio and video calls, while standard encryption is still used for business chats, Marketplace messages, and community chats. E2EE on Messenger utilizes the Signal Protocol for message encryption and the Labyrinth Protocol for encrypting messaging history across devices. Users can verify E2EE status by checking chat settings and can manage their E2EE conversations through the app's privacy settings. Disappearing messages remain available, and while Messenger shares E2EE features with WhatsApp and Signal, it currently applies this encryption solely to personal, one-on-one chats.

AppWizard

December 15, 2025

Meta shutting down Facebook Messenger app on these devices today

Meta will discontinue the Messenger app for Microsoft Windows and Apple Mac starting Monday, December 15. Users will be redirected to the Facebook desktop app or the Messenger website for messaging. Chat history will be preserved if 'secure storage' is activated, and users are advised to enable it and set up a PIN before transitioning to the web version.

AppWizard

December 12, 2025

World launches its ‘super app,’ including crypto pay and encrypted chat features

World, a biometric ID verification initiative co-founded by Sam Altman, has launched an updated app featuring an encrypted chat integration and enhanced cryptocurrency functionality. Founded in 2019 by Tools for Humanity, World aims to combat AI-generated digital impersonations and establish digital "proof of human" tools. The app's World Chat messenger offers end-to-end encryption and color-coded speech bubbles for verified contacts. Users can now send and receive cryptocurrency, receive paychecks, and deposit bank funds without prior verification. World uses an iris-scanning device called Orb for authentication, converting iris data into a unique digital code for a World ID. The company has scanned fewer than 20 million eyes, with aspirations to reach one billion. To simplify the verification process, Tools for Humanity introduced Orb Minis, hand-held devices for self-scanning eyes at home.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

The Messenger app for Windows and Mac will shut down on December 15, here is what to expect

Meta will discontinue its Messenger app for Windows and macOS on December 15. After this date, Mac users will be redirected to Facebook.com for messaging, while Windows users will be encouraged to use the Facebook desktop app. Access to the Messenger desktop app will be blocked, and users will need to uninstall it. The mobile version of Messenger will remain operational. Users should enable secure storage for encrypted chats to ensure successful transfer of chat history. They are also advised to back up important files and photos, check Messenger-only accounts, and prepare for workflow changes.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

KakaoTalk : Messenger For Android

KakaoTalk, developed by Kakao Corp., is Korea's leading messaging application with over 100 million downloads and a user rating of 2.8 stars. It offers instant communication, engaging content, and AI features accessible anytime, anywhere. The app supports one-on-one and group conversations and includes an Open Chat feature for exploring communities based on interests. Users can utilize organizational tools like chat folders and edit or delete sent messages, while the Threads feature helps keep discussions focused. KakaoTalk also provides Voice Talk and Face Talk for voice and video communication with up to ten participants, allowing users to switch between modes and use screen effects. Users can view real-time discussions in Open Chat without entering chat rooms and personalize profiles with visibility settings. The app is available on Wear OS, enabling chat history access and quick replies from wearable devices. Users may need to grant permissions for full functionality, including access to nearby devices, microphone, and camera. KakaoTalk maintains a social media presence and offers customer support through its service page.