digital services Archives

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

What is MAX, the state-owned app Russia’s Vladimir Putin is trying to replace WhatsApp with?

Russia has mandated that all government officials transition to the Max app by September 1 as part of a strategy to reduce reliance on foreign messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. The ban on WhatsApp is anticipated as officials prepare for the rollout of the state-developed Max app by VK Company, which has extensive access to users' personal data and operates under close government oversight. The legislation also prohibits apps from countries that have sanctioned Russia, indicating an effort to bolster national security in digital communications. Additionally, restrictions on software and services from "unfriendly countries" are being proposed, along with fines for accessing online content deemed extremist.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Android Auto begins erasing Assistant as Gemini prepares for takeover (APK teardown)

Google is transitioning from Google Assistant to a new digital companion called Gemini, particularly in the latest version of Android Auto, where "Google Assistant" is being replaced with "Digital Assistant." The update, Android Auto v14.8.152744, shows changes in terminology, such as "Manage your digital assistant" and a streamlined description for voice commands. This shift indicates a broader strategy to phase out the Assistant branding, with the potential for settings to eventually direct users to a Gemini configuration page instead of the current Google Assistant settings. Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Gemini as it may become the primary digital assistant in vehicles.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Bitchat beta launched by Jack Dorsey: Find out how the bluetooth-based app will potentially rival WhatsApp

Jack Dorsey has launched a decentralized messaging application named Bitchat, which operates exclusively over Bluetooth technology and does not require internet connections, phone numbers, or centralized servers. The app is currently in beta on TestFlight and emphasizes user privacy by encrypting communications that are ephemeral and stored only on users' devices. Bitchat allows for the creation of Bluetooth mesh networks to relay messages between devices, even extending beyond typical Bluetooth range. It features password-protected group chats and a store-and-forward option for offline messaging. Future updates will incorporate Wi-Fi Direct to improve network speed and range. Bitchat reflects Dorsey's commitment to decentralization in digital services and is designed to maintain connectivity in situations of internet outages or restrictions.

Tech Optimizer

July 7, 2025

Percona offers clear view into Transparent Data Encryption

Percona has launched its Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) extension for PostgreSQL, designed to secure sensitive data at rest without licensing fees or usage restrictions. TDE automatically encrypts and decrypts data at the database layer, protecting backups and transaction logs, with encryption keys stored separately. The pg_tde extension supports compliance with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, and PCI DSS v4.0, and allows users to encrypt all database files, apply encryption at the table level, and maintain control over their encryption strategies. It integrates with Key Management Services (KMS) providers and requires a patched PostgreSQL server to function. Percona aims to extend pg_tde to Community PostgreSQL, with some code already contributed for review. The extension is included in the Percona Distribution for PostgreSQL, which also offers support and consulting services for TDE setup and configuration.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

Russia Launches National Messenger App with Government Integration | Ukraine news

On June 24, Vladimir Putin established a "national messenger" in Russia through a decree, which was published on the official legal information portal. The service will be built on domestic software and aims to attract over 500,000 daily users. It is designed for messaging and voice calls in Russian and other languages spoken in the Russian Federation, and will support advertising in these languages. The platform will integrate with the Russian digital services portal “Gosuslugi,” allowing access to official documents. Features will include electronic document signing and serve as a communication hub for students and educators. The State Duma passed a bill advocating for the messenger on June 10, emphasizing the need for a multifunctional information exchange service. Anton Gorelkin stated that the introduction of the messenger would not block Telegram in Russia if it complies with legal requirements. Russia has imposed restrictions on social networks and messaging platforms, including limiting access to X (formerly Twitter) in 2021 and banning Facebook and Instagram in March 2022. In August 2024, Roskomnadzor blocked the Signal messenger for violations of Russian legislation.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

DMA decision ignored “objective reality” of Facebook Messenger, Meta claims

The European Commission has classified Facebook Messenger as a core platform service under the EU's Digital Markets Act. Meta argues that this classification fails to recognize the app's integration within the broader Facebook ecosystem, asserting that understanding its functionality requires considering its relationship with the Facebook platform. Meta's response indicates the complexities in defining digital services as regulatory frameworks evolve.

AppWizard

April 22, 2025

How to set expiration alerts for Amazon subscriptions on Android

Subscription management apps help consumers monitor and oversee various subscriptions, ensuring awareness of renewal dates. Key features include automatic detection of active subscriptions, categorization of subscriptions for easier tracking, and personalized alerts for upcoming expirations. These tools enhance financial oversight and help users avoid forgotten renewals and unnecessary charges.

Tech Optimizer

February 25, 2025

APAC enterprises shifting towards open source in database strategies

Enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region are increasingly transitioning from proprietary databases to open-source alternatives, with PostgreSQL being favored due to high licensing costs and vendor dependencies. IT leaders are reassessing database strategies to meet performance, cost, and scalability needs, particularly for applications requiring transactional, analytical, and AI workloads. Hybrid IT models are gaining traction, especially in countries like Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines, while Japan and Korea show strong on-premises demand, and India is moving away from legacy systems due to cost pressures. PostgreSQL is evolving to support hybrid IT and emerging workloads, including AI and analytics, with enhancements like lakehouse architecture for managing structured and unstructured data and the introduction of pgvector for AI applications. Data sovereignty regulations are prompting enterprises to deploy PostgreSQL in hybrid cloud environments to balance control and scalability. EDB has developed a hybrid control plane for unified management across on-premises and cloud deployments. Many enterprises are opting for a gradual transition to PostgreSQL due to legacy dependencies and operational risks, often starting with specific use cases before migrating legacy workloads. An example includes an insurance company in Hong Kong that migrated from Oracle to PostgreSQL, achieving reduced costs and improved performance. Successful migration depends on database mobility and application portability, with EDB planning to integrate GPU support and develop tools for faster AI application deployment, with expectations for rollout by the second quarter of 2025.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Amazon Appstore on Android to be discontinued this summer

Amazon will close its Android Appstore on August 20, 2025, ending access for users on Android devices and discontinuing the Amazon Coins program. The Appstore, launched in 2011, struggled to gain a substantial user base despite various innovations. Users will be warned that apps downloaded from the Appstore may stop functioning after the closure, but they can migrate purchased apps to Amazon devices like the Kindle. Amazon has already stopped selling Amazon Coins as of February 20, 2025, and unused balances will be refunded after the closure. Users are advised to disable auto-renewals for subscriptions. The closure reflects the Appstore's failure to resonate with users and diminishing relevance in the market.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Ask Jerry: What can I do about dishonest app developers?

Red Sky Labs has altered its business model, raising concerns about the integrity of promises made to consumers who invested in lifetime services. This change violates consumer protection laws and platform guidelines. Many consumers feel discouraged about pursuing small claims, such as five dollars, despite the principle of accountability. The cumulative effect of small grievances can lead to significant losses. Red Sky Labs has over 100 million downloads on Google Play, highlighting its influence. Consumers are encouraged to report issues, utilize social media for support, and engage with tech publications to raise awareness.