influence Archives

AppWizard

June 23, 2025

Iran encourages citizens to use a messaging app previously flagged as a state surveillance tool

Iranian authorities are promoting the domestic messaging app Bale for communication with family abroad amid a near-total internet blackout since June 18, 2025. Bale has 16.5 million monthly active users as of May 2023, with increased adoption following restrictions on Western apps after 2022 protests. A security audit by the Open Technology Fund revealed critical vulnerabilities in Bale and two other Iranian messaging apps, Eitaa and Rubika, including the lack of end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and potential state surveillance through a state-owned service called the Message Exchange Bus (MXB). Bale's encryption could compromise sensitive data and shares location data during authentication. Experts recommend more secure alternatives like Signal and advise against using Bale for sensitive communications. Since the blackout, internet connectivity remains poor, with the government urging citizens to delete WhatsApp and imposing restrictions that have increased VPN usage by over 700%.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

Microsoft’s Free Upgrade Deadline For 400 Million Windows Users

Microsoft may soon mandate upgrades from Windows 10, potentially ending the current free upgrade offer. Recent updates to Windows 10 include warnings about automatic feature updates for devices nearing the end of support. Microsoft auto-installed the KB5001716 patch last year, affecting around 400 million Windows 10 users. Support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, with an option to extend it for a fee. Analysts estimate at least 240 million PCs are ineligible for the free upgrade and will need to pay for security updates or risk vulnerabilities. Microsoft and PC manufacturers are encouraging users to invest in new PCs as the deadline approaches.

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

Total War: Warhammer 3’s latest patch radically reattunes its magic item system: ‘In total some 600 ancillaries have had their effects and rarity adjusted’

Creative Assembly has restructured the magic item system in Total War: Warhammer 3, adjusting approximately 600 ancillaries to improve balance and uniformity. This update follows a previous revamp of the Kislev faction and aims to enhance gameplay by addressing the influx of magical items from the series' expansions without corresponding balance changes. The upcoming Tides of Torment DLC is anticipated to further impact gameplay.

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

‘The Gilded Age,’ ‘A Minecraft Movie,’ Haim’s ‘I Quit,’ and the best to stream this weekend: June 20, 2025

The Gilded Age returns for Season 3 on Sunday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO and Max, featuring Bertha aiming to establish her place in New York society and George expanding his railroads to California. Ada navigates her new role as the lady of the Brook house after marrying Rev. Forte, while Agnes deals with the implications of her sister's wealth. The season highlights evolving relationships and ambitious pursuits. The Waterfront, a family drama by Kevin Williamson, is now streaming on Netflix, focusing on the Buckley family in Havenport. The Buccaneers, based on Edith Wharton's unfinished novel, has its second season streaming on Apple TV+, following American women in 1870s London. Surviving Ohio State, an HBO documentary about Dr. Richard Strauss's abuse at Ohio State University, is available on Max. A Minecraft Movie, featuring Jack Black, is a popular choice among children and has grossed nearly a billion dollars. Frozen: The Hit Broadway Musical is now on Disney+, capturing the West End production of the animated film. Ash, a sci-fi thriller starring Eiza Gonzalez and Aaron Paul, is streaming on Shudder. KPop Demon Hunters is an animated musical action-comedy about a K-pop girl group fighting demons. Friendship, a comedy starring Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd, is available on VOD platforms. Haim has released a music video for "All Over Me," and rock band Wednesday has launched "Wound Up Here (By Holdin On)," the second single from their upcoming album, Bleeds, set to release on September 19.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

Mythra Network Launches New Cross-Play Minecraft Server, Seeks Ambitious Builders and Fierce PVPers

Mythra Network is a newly launched cross-play Minecraft server that supports both Java and Bedrock Editions. Players can access the server at play.mythranetwork.net, with Bedrock players using port 25565. It features two game modes: a competitive 1.8 KitPVP mode with custom-coded plugins and unique combat abilities, and a 1.21.5 Survival mode that offers a "semi-vanilla" experience with land-claiming mechanisms, a player-driven economy, custom enchantments, and community activities. The server plans to expand with new game modes such as Skyblock, Prison, and Factions. Mythra Network invites all Minecraft players to join its community and influence its culture.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

Sword of the Sea fuses Journey with Tony Hawk to make a pro skater game that feels as good as it looks

At the Summer Game Fest, players experienced Sword of the Sea, where they navigate desolate dunes as the Wraith, a magical hero on a hoversword, working to restore ancient ocean life. The gameplay allows for a free, mood-based approach without rigid formulas, inspired by the Tony Hawk series and snowboarding. Creative director Matt Nava emphasized that players can recover from mistakes without harsh penalties, enhancing the surfing experience. The game encourages exploration with seamless instructional breaks and features a vibrant aesthetic reminiscent of Nava's previous titles, particularly with its use of the color orange. The design integrates graceful movement and dynamic action, creating a harmonious connection between gameplay and environment.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

10 years later, no one has replicated Rocket League’s mojo

Rocket League, launched on July 7, 2015, is approaching its 10th anniversary, prompting Psyonix to celebrate with a dedicated season. The game combines soccer with rocket-powered vehicles and has influenced the gaming landscape. While other titles like Hockey? and Slapshot offer similar physics-based mechanics, they do not capture the essence of Rocket League. A new game, Rematch, is in advanced access on Steam and allows players to control individual characters but lacks the defining elements of Rocket League, such as rockets and cars. The impact of Rocket League is evident in how it shapes perceptions of sports in gaming.

Winsage

June 18, 2025

Windows 10 End Nears: Switch to Linux for Security

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, affecting an estimated 200 to 400 million devices that will no longer receive updates or patches, exposing them to security vulnerabilities. Transitioning to Windows 11 requires modern hardware specifications, which many older devices lack. Users must decide between investing in new hardware, opting for extended security updates, or switching to alternative operating systems like Linux. The Document Foundation advocates for Linux and LibreOffice as viable alternatives, emphasizing their ability to run on older hardware and providing robust security updates. Linux offers users greater control and transparency, addressing privacy concerns associated with proprietary systems. LibreOffice supports open document formats, ensuring long-term accessibility without vendor constraints. The end of Windows 10 support may prompt significant shifts in the tech industry, encouraging a move towards systems that prioritize sustainability and user rights.

Winsage

June 17, 2025

Windows 10 End Nears: Switch to Linux for Security

Microsoft will cease support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving an estimated 200 to 400 million devices vulnerable to security risks due to a lack of updates. Users must choose between upgrading to Windows 11, which has strict hardware requirements, paying for extended security updates, or switching to alternative operating systems like Linux. The Document Foundation advocates for Linux and LibreOffice as viable options, emphasizing their ability to run on older hardware and provide robust security updates without vendor lock-in. Privacy concerns regarding data collection by major tech companies are highlighted, with Linux offering users greater control and transparency. The transition away from Windows 10 is seen as an opportunity to promote user empowerment and sustainability in technology choices.

AppWizard

June 16, 2025

Russian Lawmakers Authorize Creation Of National Messaging Service

Russian lawmakers passed legislation on June 10 to establish a national instant messaging service, envisioned as a multifunctional information exchange service similar to WhatsApp. The service aims to facilitate bureaucratic and legal functions, including electronic document signing. VK, a Kremlin-aligned social media platform, is reportedly developing a new digital platform named Max, which will include chat, messaging, and payment services. The Russian government has previously launched the Gosuslugi e-government service portal, which serves around 100 million citizens and is being integrated with VK. President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for the new messaging service, instructing officials to transition services from government agencies to the platform.