open-source software Archives

Tech Optimizer

July 17, 2025

AWS Open-Sources pgactive PostgreSQL Extension

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has launched pgactive, an open-source extension for PostgreSQL that enables active-active replication, allowing databases to stream data asynchronously between instances. Announced in June 2025, pgactive was previously proprietary within AWS's Relational Database Service (RDS) and first appeared in late 2023. The extension supports conflict resolution and bidirectional data syncing, enhancing resiliency for high-availability applications. It is available under the Apache 2.0 license, encouraging community contributions and customization. Pgactive's architecture includes logical replication slots and customizable conflict handlers, essential for fault-tolerant systems. The open-source model promotes transparency and peer review, with potential integrations discussed in developer communities. The initiative aims to transform enterprise database replication and empower developers to innovate without vendor lock-in.

AppWizard

July 15, 2025

Google is doubling down on cybersecurity using AI

Google's AI security agent, Big Sleep, has identified a vulnerability in SQLite, designated as CVE-2025-6965, which was being exploited by hackers. Enhancements have been made to Google's open-source forensics tool, now operating on the upgraded Sec-Gemini platform for improved log analysis and threat detection. Google is set to unveil FACADE, an insider threat detection system that has monitored billions of daily events since 2018 using contrastive learning. At DEF CON 33, Google will co-host a Capture the Flag event with Airbus, involving AI assistants in security challenges. Google is contributing data from its Secure AI Framework to the Coalition for Secure AI to enhance research in cybersecurity. The AI Cyber Challenge, a DARPA-led competition supported by Google, is nearing its conclusion, with winners showcasing AI tools for identifying and rectifying vulnerabilities in open-source software.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

My top 6 open-source Android apps from the Google Play Store – and why that’s important

Android supports a variety of open-source applications available on the Google Play Store. Notable open-source apps include: 1. Bitwarden: A password manager with open-source transparency, strong encryption, secure sharing, two-factor authentication, an intuitive interface, auto-fill capabilities, and a random password generator. It offers both free and paid versions. 2. Brave: A secure browser built on Chromium that prioritizes user privacy, includes an AI tool for summarizing websites, a toggleable VPN feature, and a privacy stats widget. It is free and resembles the Chrome interface. 3. Wavelet: An app for optimizing music playback through wireless earbuds, featuring preset sound profiles, AutoEQ, and a graphic equalizer. It is free and simplifies sound customization based on earbud models. 4. Tor Browser: A browser focused on privacy and anonymity, providing robust security layers, though it may be slower due to these protections. 5. KDE Connect: An app that connects Android devices with Linux systems for sharing clipboard content, files, URLs, and notifications, and allows remote command execution. It is freely available and compatible with various desktop environments. 6. ProtonVPN: A VPN service offering secure and private internet access, tracker blocking, and servers in over 110 countries. It has a free version with limitations and a subscription option for enhanced features.

AppWizard

July 11, 2025

6 free Android apps I use to learn something new every day

Megan Ellis reflects on her educational journey, transitioning from a childhood interest in encyclopedias to using modern learning apps. She navigates various platforms to learn in bite-sized lessons due to time constraints. In a poll, 75% of respondents use only one learning app at a time, with none using multiple simultaneously, and 25% do not use any learning apps. 1. Mimo is a coding app that offers concise lessons tailored to individual learning paths. Ellis is taking an introductory Python course to enhance her coding skills. 2. Drops is a vocabulary app for language learning that allows users to select specific topics. It has a daily time limit unless users subscribe to a premium version. Ellis uses it to supplement her Mandarin vocabulary. 3. The Vocabulary app helps users expand their English vocabulary by allowing them to choose types of words to learn, including slang. It sends daily notifications and has a home screen widget for reminders. 4. Primer requires a subscription or scholarship for access. Ellis received a scholarship and explores short lessons in computer science and other topics of interest. 5. Reddit provides value through its communities, where Ellis joins subreddits related to her professional interests and other topics like zoology and history. 6. The Facts app offers daily trivia tailored to user interests, with customizable topics and a widget for easy access. Some content is subscription-based, but it aligns with her desire for quick learning experiences.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Jack Dorsey Builds Bitchat, A Bluetooth Messaging App That Doesn’t Need Internet, Phone Numbers

Jack Dorsey has launched a messaging app called Bitchat, which operates without an internet connection by using a Bluetooth mesh network. The app allows devices to communicate directly, facilitating message exchanges without mobile data or centralized servers. Currently in beta testing on Apple TestFlight, Bitchat aims for peer-to-peer communication off the grid and incorporates "store and forward" technology for message delivery. It allows users to communicate anonymously without the need for accounts or personal information, making it suitable for privacy-conscious individuals, activists, and those in areas with restricted internet access. However, Bitchat has limitations, including range restrictions due to Bluetooth connectivity, support for only plain text messages, and potential increased battery consumption. The app is still in development and not fully polished.

Tech Optimizer

July 7, 2025

Databricks, Snowflake deals put Postgres in the spotlight

Snowflake has acquired Crunchy Data, a Postgres database provider, during its recent conference. This follows Databricks' investment in the Postgres startup Neon. Postgres has been recognized as the “most wanted” database in Stack Overflow’s annual developer survey for two consecutive years. Neon, founded in 2021, offers a serverless open-source alternative to AWS Aurora Postgres with a decoupled compute and storage architecture. Databricks aims to enhance its capabilities in the AI database sector through this acquisition, noting that 80% of databases on Neon’s platform were generated by AI agents. Crunchy Data, established in 2012, focuses on security for organizations and uses 100% mainstream open-source software. Snowflake plans to introduce Snowflake Postgres, designed for mission-critical AI and transactional systems at an enterprise scale. Industry experts suggest that operational data stores (OLTP) are becoming increasingly important for AI applications.

AppWizard

July 7, 2025

Aegis Authenticator: Free, open-source 2FA app for Android

Aegis Authenticator is an open-source application for Android that helps users manage two-factor authentication (2FA) needs. It features strong encryption protocols, supports HOTP and TOTP algorithms, and allows for easy data backup, export, and import from other 2FA apps. The app offers automatic backups for secure storage of authentication codes and is available for free on GitHub.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Industry Exchange Data 2025: EDB’s Jeremy Wilson on how to secure your data (Psst: Secure your database)

All software is susceptible to security vulnerabilities, but open-source solutions can enhance defenses against cyber threats, according to Jeremy Wilson, CTO for the North America public sector at EDB. He noted that the global community continuously inspects open-source code, leading to fewer issues and quicker resolutions. EDB's PostgreSQL database product is designed for online transaction systems, data warehousing, and analytics, incorporating security enhancements and performance improvements. EDB synchronizes its release cycles with the open-source community and aims to meet regulatory requirements, including obtaining FedRAMP High certification. EDB collaborates with Red Hat to implement security controls and has integrated features like transparent data encryption and APIs to support zero trust cybersecurity initiatives. Wilson acknowledged challenges agencies face when transitioning to open-source solutions, including legacy systems and regulatory compliance hurdles. EDB aims to provide a turnkey enterprise database that simplifies the migration of applications, ensuring compliance with FIPS 140-3 and DISA STIGs.

Winsage

June 23, 2025

Denmark will stick with Windows — government still plans to ditch Microsoft Office

The Denmark Ministry of Digital Affairs is transitioning from Microsoft Office to LibreOffice while continuing to use Windows. This migration will occur gradually over the coming months, motivated by a desire for enhanced digital sovereignty. Microsoft has expanded its Sovereign Cloud offerings to provide companies with greater control over their data, ensuring that European data remains within the continent and managed by European employees.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

Denmark is switching to Linux

Denmark's Ministry of Digital Affairs has decided to transition from Microsoft Office to the open-source alternative, LibreOffice, aiming to enhance the nation's digital sovereignty. The Ministry plans to migrate approximately half of its operations away from Microsoft Office this summer. While there were initial reports of a complete departure from the Windows operating system, it has been clarified that Windows will remain in use for the time being.