communications Archives

AppWizard

August 6, 2025

Russia mandates use of new state-controlled messaging app

The Kremlin is launching Max, a state-controlled messaging application for government officials, with a full implementation deadline of September 2025. Developed by VK Company, Max integrates various government services and financial transactions, raising privacy concerns. The Russian government plans to phase out foreign apps like WhatsApp, which currently has a 70% user base. Max will be pre-installed on all new devices sold in Russia starting September 2025. As of July 2025, over 2 million users have registered on the app, which has been labeled a "digital gulag" by cybersecurity experts due to its potential for state-sponsored surveillance. Human rights organizations are concerned about its impact on digital freedoms amid increasing government suppression of dissent.

AppWizard

August 3, 2025

Google Home App Gains Material 3 Media Controller Redesign on Android

Google has rolled out a redesigned media controller in the Google Home app for Android, featuring a Material 3 aesthetic with rounded edges and dynamic color theming. The new interface replaces the previous card-style layout with a streamlined floating panel that activates during media playback on connected devices. Users now see a pill-shaped controller at the bottom of the screen, displaying album artwork, playback controls, and a progress bar, which can be expanded for additional features. The redesign enhances accessibility with larger touch targets and improved contrast ratios. This update is part of a broader initiative to create smarter home experiences, including potential voice-activated media adjustments with upcoming Gemini AI enhancements. The redesign aims to improve user interaction and simplify multi-room audio management, while also positioning Google competitively against Amazon's Alexa and Apple’s HomeKit.

AppWizard

August 3, 2025

What You Should Know About the New, Free Messaging App Bitchat

On July 28, Jack Dorsey introduced Bitchat Mesh, an open-source messaging application available for free in Apple's App Store. The app features a minimalist design and transmits messages exclusively via Bluetooth, establishing a mesh network for connectivity without relying on phone numbers or internet access. Users can communicate with nearby devices and extend their network reach through a series of connections. Each device acts as both a client and a server, and messages sent in the main chat are visible to all users within the network, while private messaging is available for one-on-one conversations. Additional features include the ability to send private messages, block users, and engage in playful interactions, with notifications for screenshots taken during conversations. Although the app is open-source, raising transparency about its code, Dorsey issued a security warning highlighting that it has not undergone external security reviews and may contain vulnerabilities.

Tech Optimizer

August 1, 2025

Microsoft says Russian hackers are planting fake antivirus software in embassy attacks

Recent findings from Microsoft Threat Intelligence indicate that Russian state hackers are targeting foreign embassies in Moscow using a sophisticated malware called ApolloShadow, which disguises itself as Kaspersky antivirus software. This malware installs a TLS root certificate, allowing hackers to impersonate trusted websites accessed by compromised systems within the embassies. The attacks are categorized as adversary-in-the-middle (AiTM) attacks, enabling hackers to intercept and manipulate communications. The group behind these attacks, known as Secret Blizzard, has a history of targeting Ukrainian military technology and has now expanded its operations to conduct cyber espionage within Russia. Diplomats using local ISPs or telecommunications services in Russia are considered likely targets for these activities, which may utilize Russia's domestic intercept systems like the System for Operative Investigative Activities (SORM).

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.

AppWizard

July 27, 2025

Inside Putin’s attempt to construct a ‘digital gulag’ spy app to snoop on Russians

The new messenger app Max, developed by VK, will be a standard feature on all new digital devices sold in Russia starting this September. It aims to integrate messaging, video calls, government services, and mobile payments. Experts express concerns that Max could enhance Kremlin surveillance capabilities, as its servers will be governed by local laws allowing the FSB to access user data. There is an increasing likelihood of a ban on WhatsApp, which is currently used by over 70% of Russians, as part of a strategy to promote Max. Opposition journalist Andrey Okun describes Max as a tool for creating a "digital gulag," while experts note it normalizes state surveillance of internet usage in Russia. The Russian government has designated WhatsApp as an extremist organization, and tactics may be employed to transition users to Max. Although the shift may not change the organized opposition landscape significantly, it could discourage casual dissent. Historically, the government has attempted to block services like Telegram, with renewed efforts expected by the end of the year.

AppWizard

July 26, 2025

Kaysville woman sentenced to 6 years to life in prison for sexually abusing boy

Racquel Couch, a 39-year-old woman from Kaysville, has been sentenced to a prison term ranging from six years to life for her involvement in the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old boy in 2020. Initially charged with multiple serious offenses, including four counts of child rape and one count of sodomy, she entered a guilty plea to a single count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child as part of a plea agreement. This agreement resulted in a continuous protective order for the victim and a lifetime requirement for Couch to register as a sex offender. The abuse occurred between January and March 2020, during which Couch allegedly took the boy to secluded locations and instructed him to keep the incidents secret. She also sent nude photographs and engaged in inappropriate texting with the victim. Although she initially denied the allegations, Couch later admitted to inappropriate touching and acknowledged her position of "special trust" and "undue influence" over the boy.

Winsage

July 26, 2025

6 Chromebook features I wish Windows had

Chromebooks run on ChromeOS, which includes features such as the customizable Home Launcher for app organization, the Quick Insert button for integrating various elements into documents, and three-finger tab swipes for efficient multitasking in the Chrome browser. The Welcome Recap feature provides a daily overview of tasks, while Select to Search allows users to highlight text or images for immediate contextual information. Additionally, ChromeOS simplifies the process of pinning files to the taskbar compared to Windows.

Winsage

July 26, 2025

You’ll never worry about leaving your PC unlocked again, Microsoft’s phone app just solved it

Microsoft has updated its Link to Windows app, allowing users to lock their Windows PC directly from their Android phone with a simple tap. This feature enhances security by enabling remote locking, which is useful when users leave their devices unattended. The app also provides insights into the PC's status, such as battery level and Wi-Fi connectivity, and has streamlined the setup process. This update reflects Microsoft's responsiveness to user feedback, offering a proactive approach to device security.

AppWizard

July 25, 2025

Putin’s ‘digital gulag’: Inside the Kremlin’s attempt to construct a spy app to snoop on Russians

A new messenger app named Max, developed by Russian tech company VK, will be pre-installed on all new digital devices sold in Russia starting September. Analysts express concerns that Max, which integrates messaging, video calls, government services, and mobile payments, could be used as a surveillance tool by the Kremlin due to its architecture and local server location. There are fears that it may enable the government to monitor citizens closely, with a potential ban on popular apps like WhatsApp to steer users towards Max. Russian opposition journalist Andrey Okun has described Max as part of a "digital gulag" that allows for strict government oversight of citizens. Experts suggest that the introduction of Max is part of a broader initiative to enhance state surveillance capabilities. The Russian government has previously expressed frustration with foreign apps complicating surveillance, and attempts to block platforms like Telegram have had limited success, indicating a potential increase in efforts to control messaging services in the future.