group chat Archives

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Jack Dorsey builds offline messaging app Bitchat that works without Wi-Fi or mobile network

Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and CEO of Block, has launched Bitchat, a messaging application that operates independently of the internet or mobile networks, using Bluetooth mesh networking for secure and anonymous communication. The app, currently in beta testing, does not require phone numbers, email addresses, or user accounts, allowing encrypted messages to be transmitted directly between nearby devices. Messages are end-to-end encrypted and disappear by default, with no data stored on a central server. Bitchat also features group chat rooms, mentions using @handles, and password-protected conversations. A store-and-forward mechanism allows messages to be saved and delivered later. Dorsey plans to integrate Wi-Fi Direct support to enhance communication range and speed. The whitepaper discusses potential use cases for Bitchat, including disaster response and community coordination.

AppWizard

June 10, 2025

Six new Android features just dropped, and you can try them out today

Android 16 introduces several new features, including enhancements to RCS group chats, a redesigned Google Photos editor, and improved functionality in the Google Home app. RCS group chat updates allow users to customize group chats with unique icons and names, check RCS status of friends, and mute notifications for specific groups. The Google Photos app features a new image editor with AI-driven suggestions, a Reimagine feature for creative expression, and an Auto frame function for better image cropping. The Google Home app now includes device-specific shortcuts for easier management of smart devices and an upgraded Safety Check feature for scheduling check-ins. WearOS smartwatches can now tap city transit cards even when the Google Wallet app is closed, provided the feature is activated.

AppWizard

May 31, 2025

You got Nightreigned: Elden Ring’s spinoff is the most aggravating, player-hostile FromSoft game I’ve played, but I keep staying up past 3 AM for ‘one more run’

The author has logged 42 hours playing Elden Ring Nightreign, often sacrificing sleep to sync with friends during the pre-launch phase. Despite its punishing difficulty and reliance on random number generation, the game captivates the author, who finds joy in its challenges and surprises. Key aspects that keep the author returning include the game's unique pace, unexpected twists, and the camaraderie fostered by playing with friends. The author expresses eagerness for potential DLC and values the rewarding nature of victories amidst the struggles faced in the game.

AppWizard

May 27, 2025

What are the most secure messaging apps in 2025? Here’s how to keep your online communications safe

A leaked Signal group chat, referred to as Signalgate, has raised concerns about national security and the use of messaging applications for sensitive information exchange. The incident involved former U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz and Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor-in-chief of Atlantic, who was mistakenly added to the chat meant for national security leaders discussing military operations. This breach has prompted discussions about the security protocols of digital communication tools used by government officials.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Mike Waltz’s Cabinet Messaging App Goes Dark After Massive Hack

TeleMessage, an encrypted messaging application, has temporarily suspended its services following a security breach. The platform was used by dismissed national security adviser Mike Waltz during a Cabinet meeting, and a leaked image of his inbox showed conversations with notable figures such as Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The breach, reported by 404 Media, did not access messages among Cabinet members but compromised data from Customs and Border Protection, cryptocurrency firm Coinbase, and various financial institutions. The hacker claimed the breach was easy, completing it within 15-20 minutes. Signal, the platform from which TeleMessage archives messages, stated it cannot guarantee the security of unofficial versions. TeleMessage was acquired by U.S. company Smarsh last year for archiving communications. Following controversies, including Waltz's accidental inclusion in a group chat discussing a military operation, he was removed from his position, and President Trump expressed skepticism about using Signal for government communications.

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

Photo appears to shows Mike Waltz using Signal-like app that can archive messages

White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly confirmed that the encrypted messaging application Signal is officially sanctioned for government use and installed on government-issued devices. The National Security Council has not commented on the related app, TeleMessage, which is derived from Signal and designed to help government entities comply with records retention laws. TeleMessage was founded in 1999, acquired by Smarsh in 2024, and has been involved in government contracts, including a .1 million contract with the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA that began in February 2023 and will conclude in August 2025. Tom Padgett, Smarsh’s president for enterprise business, stated that like Signal, messages sent through TeleMessage are encrypted, but the app does not address security issues raised by a recent incident involving Signal. The specifics of how government officials utilize TeleMessage remain unclear, and five cybersecurity experts admitted they were unfamiliar with the app prior to recent developments. TeleMessage licenses parts of its technology, including its encryption protocol, to other companies, but Signal clarified there is no formal agreement with TeleMessage and expressed concerns about the privacy and security of unofficial versions of their app.

AppWizard

April 24, 2025

WhatsApp users ‘refuse’ to use app after new Meta AI tool can’t be removed

The Meta AI logo, a blue circle with pink and green hues, has launched for users in the UK on WhatsApp, allowing them to interact with a chatbot for assistance. A Meta representative stated that users can utilize Meta AI to settle debates or ask questions while ensuring privacy, as it can only read shared messages and keeps personal messages end-to-end encrypted. Users are encouraged to explore its capabilities, but reactions have been mixed, with some expressing a desire to remove the feature. Many users feel reluctant to abandon WhatsApp due to its widespread use among their contacts. Recent updates to WhatsApp include improvements to group chats, events, calls, and new functionalities like adding music to statuses and customizing chat themes.

AppWizard

April 12, 2025

WhatsApp down: Major outage hits messaging services globally – The Times of India

WhatsApp experienced a significant service disruption affecting users' ability to connect and send messages through its mobile application and web platform. In India, around 3,000 reports were logged, with over 90% of users indicating issues with message transmission. Globally, approximately 2,800 users reported problems, with 91% highlighting issues with sending messages. Members of The Times of India's technology team confirmed similar challenges. Despite the widespread disruption, Meta, WhatsApp's parent company, has not issued an official statement regarding the outage. Users took to social media to express their frustrations and share humorous takes on the situation.

AppWizard

April 12, 2025

Signal App reveals need for more secure channels

Mike Waltz, national security adviser under President Trump, accidentally included Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, in a confidential military chat on Signal that involved senior officials discussing imminent U.S. military strikes on Yemen. This incident raised concerns about the administration's secure communication practices, particularly as it involved sensitive military strategies. Despite Signal's encryption, critics argue that public group chats should not be used for classified discussions, highlighting vulnerabilities in communication protocols. Secure rooms are designed for classified discussions with strict protocols, which were not followed in this case.

AppWizard

April 6, 2025

Wrong signal: Donald Trump shoots the messaging app instead of the messmaker

Maher became the non-executive chair at Web Summit after leaving her CEO position last year to lead NPR. She also chairs the Signal Foundation, known for its encrypted messaging service, which was used by Trump administration members during military planning in Yemen, leading to criticism from Trump supporters due to her previous comments about Trump and her advocacy for restricting free speech. Meanwhile, Gordon Hardie, CEO of O-I Glass, received a total compensation package of €1.46 million last year, which included a base salary of €682,322, stock awards, and additional benefits. The University of Limerick recently ceased posting on X due to declining engagement and concerns over content, though it remains open to reconsidering its stance. Peter Vandermeersch, CEO of Mediahuis Ireland, is writing a book titled “Ierland. Guinness, God en Google,” which will explore various aspects of Irish life and culture.