open-source applications Archives

TrendTechie

April 29, 2025

Новые версии открытых Torrent-клиентов

Two open-source torrent clients, Deluge and qBittorrent, have released updated versions. Deluge 2.2 features a cross-platform BitTorrent client developed in Python, utilizing the libtorrent library and Twisted framework. It offers multiple interface options, operates on a client-server model, and supports modern torrenting capabilities such as DHT, UPnP, NAT-PMP, traffic encryption, and proxy connections. The new version includes support for the BitTorrent v2 format, enhancing hash calculations and improving file integrity with SHA2-256 and Merkle hash trees. The minimum required Python version is now 3.7. qBittorrent, developed in C++ using the Qt library, is compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS. It allows users to search for torrents, manage downloads, set priorities, and configure network settings. The latest version introduces enhancements like drag-and-drop functionality, improved random number generation, and upgraded search capabilities, along with significant improvements to the web interface.

AppWizard

March 26, 2025

What is Signal?

A magazine journalist was unexpectedly included in a group chat of U.S. national security officials on the Signal messaging app, just hours before President Donald Trump authorized airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The National Security Council is investigating how the journalist's phone number was added to this secure communication channel. Signal is an application that supports direct messaging, group chats, and voice and video calls, employing end-to-end encryption. It allows for group chats of up to 1,000 participants and includes a feature for messages to self-destruct after a set period. Signal is considered secure but not immune to hacking, and it raises concerns about compliance with open records laws. Government officials are increasingly using encrypted messaging applications, with many having accounts linked to government-issued and personal cell phones. Signal was created by Moxie Marlinspike, who combined two open-source applications, and is overseen by the nonprofit Signal Foundation, which operates without advertisers or investors.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

What to know about Signal, the app used by Trump officials to text war plans

An encrypted messaging app named Signal has been used by high-ranking officials from the Trump administration, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance, to discuss a sensitive military operation. This conversation included Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, who reported on the incident. The National Security Council confirmed the authenticity of the messages. Signal, which has around 70 million users, offers end-to-end encryption and is operated by the nonprofit Signal Foundation. Despite its security features, experts warn that it is not immune to hacking, as highlighted by a National Security Agency bulletin in February 2025 regarding vulnerabilities within the app. Government officials have used Signal for sensitive communications, but there are potential legal implications for sharing classified information on nonsecure platforms, which could violate the Espionage Act. Some messages in a group chat were set to disappear after one to four weeks, raising concerns about federal record preservation laws.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

The Play Store sucks, so here’s what I use instead

As of early February 2025, there are nearly 2.1 million apps available on the Play Store, with over 1,100 new apps introduced daily, resulting in an average of almost 42,000 new options each month. The search function on the Play Store is often ineffective for broader queries, and users face challenges due to the lack of sorting options and transparency regarding app updates. F-Droid is a platform for free and open-source software (FOSS) applications, requiring sideloading or the use of clients like Neo Store or Droid-ify. Obtainium is a tool that allows users to access open-source applications and updates directly from their sources, supporting over a dozen repositories including GitHub and GitLab, and enables users to export curated app lists and track updates without downloading them.

Winsage

December 14, 2024

4 top personal finance apps for Linux that run on MacOS and Windows, too

The transition from traditional banking to digital solutions in personal finance management has both advantages and challenges, particularly regarding user experience. Several open-source applications for financial management on Linux include: 1. GnuCash: A robust application for personal and business finances using a double-entry accounting system. It supports multiple accounts, investments, and currency conversions. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install gnucash -y - sudo dnf install gnucash -y - sudo flatpak install gnucash - sudo pacman -S gnucash 2. HomeBank: A user-friendly alternative to GnuCash, supporting various import formats and multiple currencies. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install homebank -y - sudo dnf install homebank -y - sudo pacman -S homebank 3. KMyMoney: Designed for personal finance management with support for multiple accounts and detailed reporting. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install kmymoney -y - sudo dnf install kmymoney -y - sudo pacman -S kmymoney 4. Skrooge: An application that supports various import formats and allows direct data import from bank websites. Installation commands include: - sudo apt-get install skrooge -y - sudo dnf install skrooge -y - sudo pacman -S skrooge These applications can also be installed via software centers like GNOME Software, KDE Plasma Discover, and Octopi.