communication platforms Archives

AppWizard

December 3, 2025

India mandates SIM-linked messaging apps to fight rising fraud

India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated that messaging services must operate with active SIM cards linked to users' phone numbers to combat cyber fraud. Popular apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Snapchat must comply with these SIM-binding rules within 90 days. The new regulations also require web sessions to automatically log out after six hours to enhance security and address issues related to long-lived web sessions, which have been exploited by fraudsters. This initiative aims to improve the traceability of accounts and reduce fraudulent activities, particularly phishing schemes and scams. Cyber-fraud losses in India reached ₹22,800 crore in 2024, prompting these Telecom Cyber Security measures. Users roaming with their SIMs will not be affected by the new regulations.

AppWizard

November 5, 2025

6 Android apps reportedly recording users’ conversations

Recent investigations have identified a series of malicious Android applications capable of spying on users by extracting messages from platforms like WhatsApp and Signal, and recording conversations without consent. One such app, WaveChat, can capture background audio even when the microphone is not in use. These apps deploy a remote access trojan (RAT) called VajraSpy and are primarily targeting users in India and Pakistan, with only about 1,400 downloads noted. A total of 12 spyware apps were identified, including six available on the Google Play Store. These include Privee Talk, MeetMe*, Let’s Chat, Quick Chat, Rafaqat رفاق, and Chit Chat. Users are advised to be cautious about app permissions and to download applications only from reputable sources. ESET researchers also discovered two spyware apps posing as the Android Signal app, targeting users in the United Arab Emirates. One malicious app exploited the popularity of a Pakistani cricket player, although he is not involved in the malicious activity. The development of these spyware apps is attributed to Patchwork APT.

AppWizard

September 20, 2025

Blockchain Based Messaging App Market Segmentation Analysis by Application, Type, and Key Players-Signal Foundation, Telegram Messenger, WhatsApp Inc., WeChat, Matrix.org

The global market for Blockchain Based Messaging Apps is projected to grow to USD 5.5 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.5% from 2025 to 2031. The market is expected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2024. Key drivers of this growth include concerns over data privacy and security, the demand for decentralized communication solutions, and the integration of decentralized identity management and smart contracts. Adoption is anticipated across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government. Factors supporting future growth include technological advancements, expanding applications across various industries, favorable government policies, and increased investment in research and development. Key players in the market include Signal Foundation, Telegram Messenger, WhatsApp Inc., WeChat, Matrix.org, Status.im, Mainframe, Holochain, Sphinx Chat, Oraculos, Blockstream, and Pigeon Messenger.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Russia Mandates Pre-Installation of MAX Messenger on All Phones as Rival to WhatsApp and Telegram

The Russian government has mandated that all smartphones and tablets sold in the country must come pre-installed with MAX, a state-backed messaging application, starting September 1, 2025. This initiative is part of a strategy to enhance control over digital communications, requiring devices to also include RuStore, Russia's domestic app store, and from January 1, 2026, all smart TVs sold must feature LIME HD TV. MAX is presented as a secure alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram, which have faced restrictions in Russia due to compliance issues. As of July 2025, WhatsApp had approximately 97.3 million users in Russia, and Telegram had around 90.8 million users. MAX, developed by VK, a state-controlled firm, reported 18 million downloads during testing. Approximately 105 million Russians own smartphones, indicating that about 72 percent of the population possesses one. There were around 216 million mobile connections in Russia as of early 2025.

AppWizard

August 21, 2025

Kremlin-Backed Messaging App Max to Come Pre-Installed on Devices Starting Next Month

Russia's government will pre-install its state-backed messaging application, Max, on all devices sold in the country starting September 1. Max is designed as a multifunctional information exchange service, providing secure messaging and digital services from governmental and business sectors. It will replace the existing VK messenger, which has been on the mandatory pre-installation list since 2023. This initiative aligns with regulations requiring domestic software on smartphones, tablets, and computers since 2021. The rollout follows increased scrutiny of foreign messaging services, with reports of disruptions to WhatsApp and Telegram calls. The Kremlin has directed officials to transition Telegram channels to Max, and the State Duma will now exclusively post on Max. Additionally, the pre-installation list will include the domestic app store RuStore for Apple devices and the Lime HD TV app for smart TVs, launching in 2026.

AppWizard

August 19, 2025

Kazakhstan Rolls Out Domestic Messenger to Replace Foreign Apps in State Institutions

Kazakhstan has announced the implementation of the Aitu national messenger across all government agencies, quasi-public organizations, and the Armed Forces, which will begin on September 15. This decision was made during a meeting led by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov on August 18, in alignment with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s directive for secure official communications. The Ministry of Defense will adopt the messenger in phases, with full implementation expected by the end of the year. Additionally, new regulations for data management in artificial intelligence have been approved, and a plan to integrate government information systems into the Smart Data Ukimet platform is to be completed by December 1.

Winsage

August 13, 2025

Windows Users Get Exclusive Taskbar Apps That Integrate with Microsoft 365

Microsoft is introducing three lightweight companion applications—People, File Search, and Calendar—designed to enhance the user experience for Microsoft 365 customers by transforming the Windows taskbar into a command center. These apps will be automatically launched upon startup and provide immediate access to Microsoft 365 functionalities. The People app allows users to initiate Teams calls and manage contacts, the File Search app simplifies file location across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, and the Calendar app offers visibility into upcoming commitments and integrates with other tools. The rollout is scheduled for this month through standard update channels. This initiative reflects Microsoft's strategy to deepen integration of its services within the Windows experience, aiming to enhance user productivity and strengthen its competitive position. However, it has faced scrutiny from regulators, particularly the European Commission, regarding its bundling strategies, leading to commitments to unbundle Teams from its offerings and enhance interoperability with competing platforms.

AppWizard

August 13, 2025

Mount Laurel man accused of sexually assaulting girl he met on messaging app

A 25-year-old man from Mount Laurel, New Jersey, named Jake Toczylowski, is in police custody facing serious allegations of sexual assault involving an underage girl. He reportedly met the victim through a messaging app and arranged an in-person meeting, during which the incident occurred in his parked vehicle. Toczylowski was previously employed by the Mount Laurel Township Municipal Utilities Authority, a position now under scrutiny due to the investigation.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

This new Contacts app update solves a problem we’ve all had on Android phones

Google has introduced a feature called "Contact History" in its Android Contacts app, which includes a "Recent activity" section that displays the latest interactions with each contact. Users can view their recent communications, such as phone calls and texts, and tap on entries to open the corresponding app. To access this feature, users need to go to a contact's profile and scroll to the "Recent activity" section. The feature is currently being rolled out and may require an update from the Google Play Store for some users. It focuses on phone calls and text messages, excluding other platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.

Winsage

July 16, 2025

Microsoft Update Copilot Vision AI: Five New Business Use Cases

Microsoft has upgraded its Copilot Vision AI, now available to Windows Insiders, enabling the tool to scan and analyze all content on users' screens instead of just two applications at a time. This enhancement allows Copilot Vision to function as a comprehensive assistant, providing real-time insights and guidance across all on-screen content. Users must activate the feature through the Copilot application. The AI can interpret text, images, and application contexts simultaneously, offering contextual insights and verbal coaching across various professional applications. Key use cases for Copilot Vision AI include: 1. Customer Service and Support: Assists support representatives by providing real-time suggestions while navigating multiple systems. 2. Sales Process Optimization: Analyzes sales workflows to offer insights into prospect behavior and suggest optimal next steps. 3. Content Creation and Marketing Operations: Provides real-time feedback on visual consistency and brand compliance across design tools. 4. Project Management and Collaboration Enhancement: Identifies bottlenecks and suggests resource optimizations for project managers. 5. Training and Professional Development: Offers contextual coaching to guide employees learning new software systems. The upgrade aims to improve productivity and decision-making by addressing information fragmentation and workflow inefficiencies across organizations.