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Messenger rolls out new safety, useful, and fun features
AppWizard
February 21, 2025

Messenger rolls out new safety, useful, and fun features

Meta has updated Messenger with new features focusing on privacy, usability, and enjoyment. Privacy and safety updates include the View Once Media option for single-view media messages, screenshot and screen recording blocks, in-app scam alerts via Spam Protection, and streamlined reporting and blocking of suspicious contacts. Usability improvements consist of HD photo sharing, enhanced HD video calls, noise-suppressed audio for clearer calls, and Siri integration for easier navigation. Expressive features allow users to personalize chats with themes, add music to notes, and use new sticker packs, including the Butterbear stickers. Social features encourage community building through Messenger Communities, enabling topic-based chats via QR codes, and engaging with public figures through Broadcast Channels.
After Windows 11, Amazon is shutting down its app store on Android - The Times of India
AppWizard
February 21, 2025

After Windows 11, Amazon is shutting down its app store on Android – The Times of India

Amazon will close its Android app store on August 20, 2025, and has stopped accepting new app submissions immediately. Developers can still submit updates for existing applications until the service is fully discontinued. In-app purchases will no longer be available in Japan on the Amazon Appstore, but will remain possible in other marketplaces until the shutdown date. Amazon will also discontinue its Coins digital currency on the same date, with refunds for unused Coins provided after August 20, 2025. The app store will continue to operate on Amazon's proprietary devices, such as Fire TV and Fire tablets. Additionally, Amazon's Windows app store, which supported Android apps, will end support by March 5, 2025.
Faster loading times and more are coming to GTA V on PC, as we slowly wait for news of GTA 6
AppWizard
February 21, 2025

Faster loading times and more are coming to GTA V on PC, as we slowly wait for news of GTA 6

Strauss Zelnick, CEO of Take-Two Interactive, highlighted the increasing importance of the PC gaming market as anticipation grows for Grand Theft Auto 6's release this autumn. A substantial update for Grand Theft Auto 5 will be available on March 4th, introducing new vehicles, performance upgrades, ambient animal encounters, GTA+ Membership for PC players, a Career Progress feature, and a revamped Landing Page. The update aims to enhance the player experience and includes improvements such as anti-cheat protections and voice chat moderation. Additionally, there are discussions about allowing players to modify the map in GTA 6 using mechanics similar to those in Roblox and Fortnite.
Android's Phone app grabs 'Recent' filters alongside a small Pixel change
AppWizard
February 20, 2025

Android’s Phone app grabs ‘Recent’ filters alongside a small Pixel change

Google is enhancing its Pixel Call Assist feature to help manage spam calls, introducing five new filters in the Phone app: All, Missed, Contacts, Non-Spam, and Spam. These updates are rolling out on the new Pixel 9 series, which also features a redesigned user interface with a dedicated Call Assist button. Additional features include Live Caption for accessibility, allowing users to read spoken dialogue and type responses during calls, and Call Screen, which uses AI to handle incoming calls and transcribe spoken content. Google previously launched an Audio Emoji update and has initiated a beta program for real-time scam detection, which alerts users to potential scams with a red pop-up notification.
Delta Force's Black Hawk Down campaign is a bizarrely slow, serious complement to the popcorn multiplayer mode
AppWizard
February 20, 2025

Delta Force’s Black Hawk Down campaign is a bizarrely slow, serious complement to the popcorn multiplayer mode

Delta Force's new Black Hawk Down campaign is a remake that emphasizes the intensity of real combat, contrasting with cinematic portrayals. The gameplay features tightly scripted levels that reflect the events of the original film and real-life incidents, focusing on methodical tactics in confined environments rather than expansive freedom. Players engage in slow, deliberate actions, requiring careful communication and coordination with squadmates. Key gameplay elements include crucial ammo management, teamwork for injuries, and strategic positioning against enemies. The game presents a stark portrayal of warfare but has predictable enemy behavior and lacks sophisticated AI, which may detract from immersion. The campaign consists of seven missions, taking approximately 4-5 hours to complete, and offers a brief yet intense experience, with multiplayer potential if monetization challenges are addressed.
Deprecation approaches for WSUS driver synchronization
Winsage
February 19, 2025

Deprecation approaches for WSUS driver synchronization

Microsoft has announced the deprecation of driver synchronization through Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), effective April 18, 2025. After this date, drivers will still be available through the Microsoft Update Catalog for on-premises environments, but importing them directly into WSUS will no longer be possible. A 2024 survey indicated that 34 percent of respondents were using WSUS for driver synchronization, with 8 percent expressing concerns about the deprecation. Alternatives to WSUS include Device Driver Packages, Microsoft Intune, and Windows Autopatch. WSUS has been included in the deprecation list since September 2024, and while it remains operational, Microsoft has stopped active development on it.
Elon Musk's X Blocks Links To Signal App As Federal Workers Turn To Encrypted Messaging Amid DOGE Fallout: Report
AppWizard
February 19, 2025

Elon Musk’s X Blocks Links To Signal App As Federal Workers Turn To Encrypted Messaging Amid DOGE Fallout: Report

Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, has started blocking links to Signal.me, a URL shortener for the privacy-focused messaging app Signal. Users are experiencing difficulties sharing Signal.me links through public posts, direct messages, or profile pages. Musk had previously supported Signal, which led to a rise in its downloads. X has not commented on the situation, leading to speculation about its motivations. Critics point out that this move contrasts with Musk's portrayal as a proponent of free speech, as his management of X has included restrictions on content that opposes his views. Additionally, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a program Musk supports, aims to cut federal costs, affecting nearly 10,000 employees and possibly eliminating agencies like USAID. Many former employees are turning to Signal for secure communication, highlighting the importance of privacy in digital communication.
You Can Now Text Yourself via RCS on Google Messages (and You Should)
AppWizard
February 18, 2025

You Can Now Text Yourself via RCS on Google Messages (and You Should)

Google Messages has introduced a beta feature that allows users to send messages to themselves using RCS (Rich Communication Services), which provides advantages over SMS, such as the ability to send longer texts and high-resolution media without compression. However, RCS messages sent to oneself currently lack encryption. If the feature is active on a device, users can simply text themselves, or they may need to enroll in the Google Messages beta program. Self-messaging offers convenience and the ability to synchronize messages and media across devices, but users concerned about security may consider using encrypted platforms like Signal for sensitive information.
AI: Tencent tests DeepSeek model in Weixin app
AppWizard
February 18, 2025

AI: Tencent tests DeepSeek model in Weixin app

Tencent is integrating DeepSeek's AI model into its Weixin messaging app to enhance user experience through advanced search capabilities. Currently, a beta test is being conducted for Weixin users to explore DeepSeek's potential for search queries, aiming to refine the app's functionality.
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