policy change Archives

AppWizard

October 30, 2025

Google is giving users more options to pay for apps, and hopefully save some money too

Google has revised its Play Store policy, allowing Android developers to present alternative billing options and link to external payment systems. Developers can now implement their own billing systems instead of relying solely on Google Play Billing and are permitted to link directly to external checkout pages within their applications. This external billing option is currently limited to the U.S. market and will remain in effect until November 1, 2027. Google has also instituted new rules requiring certain apps to verify the age of users prior to download. Historically, Google restricted developers from guiding users toward more affordable payment alternatives outside the Play Store. With the new policy, developers can promote special offers and manage in-app payments outside of Google’s ecosystem, potentially leading to lower subscription rates for users.

Winsage

October 28, 2025

End of Windows 10 support could mean huge e-waste increase

Microsoft is discontinuing support for Windows 10, raising concerns about increased electronic waste and cybersecurity risks for users unable to upgrade. Approximately 40% of Windows users may lack alternatives, as many devices do not meet the requirements for Windows 11. Research indicates that up to 240 million outdated devices could end up in landfills due to this policy change. Microsoft will provide security updates for Windows 10 for one more year, but users delaying upgrades may face vulnerabilities to cyber threats. Upgrading to new devices can be costly, with prices starting around 0, while Linux Mint is suggested as a free alternative that can extend the life of current devices. Linux Mint requires only 2GB of RAM, 20GB of disk space, and a minimum resolution of 1024×768. Advocates are promoting the right to repair and legislation to combat planned obsolescence to make technology more sustainable.

Winsage

September 27, 2025

Microsoft agrees to 11th hour Win 10 end of life concessions

Microsoft will provide a no-cost Extended Security Updates (ESU) option for Windows 10 consumer users in the European Economic Area (EEA) in response to feedback from Euroconsumers. Previously, users could obtain a year of extended security updates for a fee after the end-of-life date of October 14, 2025. Euroconsumers expressed concerns that the earlier policy did not align with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) or the EU's sustainability goals. The revised ESU option will not require users to back up settings, apps, or credentials, or use Microsoft Rewards. However, Euroconsumers believe the one-year extension does not fully address broader issues related to the Digital Content Directive and sustainability goals, particularly since many users may face hardware limitations preventing them from upgrading to Windows 11. Over 850 million active devices still rely on Windows 10, with 22 percent of consumers using PCs or laptops from 2017 or earlier that cannot be upgraded. Euroconsumers plans to continue discussions with Microsoft regarding extended device protection for consumers. The implications for Windows 10 users in the UK remain unclear.

AppWizard

August 30, 2025

Google’s Android Lockdown: Are You Really In Control Of Your Phone?

On August 25, Google announced a policy change requiring all app developers to verify their identities before their applications can operate on certified Android devices, extending this requirement to all apps, including side-loaded ones. This policy allows Google to prevent users from running disapproved applications, raising concerns about user freedom and control over their devices. Google cites cybersecurity concerns, claiming that side-loaded apps have led to a significant increase in malware. The company aims to collect personal information from developers to enhance user security, despite criticisms regarding the effectiveness of this approach. Data breaches have become increasingly common, with notable incidents affecting millions, and identity theft costs Americans billions annually. The text discusses the potential of cryptography to enhance trust in digital interactions, highlighting technologies like PGP and concepts like webs of trust as solutions to secure identity verification. Alternative app stores and operating systems focused on user privacy are emerging as potential responses to the challenges posed by Google's policy.

AppWizard

August 29, 2025

Google to require identity verification for all Android app developers from next year

Google will require identity verification for all developers distributing apps on Android devices starting in 2026, initially in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global rollout planned for 2027. Developers must provide personal information such as their legal name, address, email, and phone number, and may need to submit a government ID. This change primarily affects those distributing apps outside the Google Play Store and aims to reduce malware and scams by preventing banned developers from returning under new identities.

AppWizard

August 27, 2025

Google to require developer identity checks for sideloaded Android apps

Beginning in September 2026, Google will require Android developers in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand to verify their identities before distributing apps outside the Play Store. Developers must provide personal information such as their legal name, address, email, phone number, and possibly a government-issued ID. This requirement will expand globally in 2027, affecting all sideloaded applications. Developers already verified through the Play Store will not need additional checks. Google is creating a dedicated Android Developer Console for those distributing apps outside the Play Store and will offer a free verification option for student and hobbyist creators. Early access programs for developers will start in October 2025.

Winsage

August 17, 2025

Microsoft won’t let you disable app updates on the Microsoft Store anymore

Microsoft has implemented a new policy for app updates in the Microsoft Store, limiting users to pausing updates for a maximum of five weeks. After this period, updates will automatically resume. This change aims to enhance security by ensuring users have the latest versions of applications. Attempts to bypass the pause on updates will not be successful.

Tech Optimizer

August 1, 2025

Yes, You Can Bundle Other Cybersecurity Services With Some VPNs. But Is It a Good Idea

Relying solely on a VPN and personal vigilance may leave individuals exposed to online threats such as phishing, malware, identity theft, and ransomware. A VPN enhances online privacy by encrypting internet traffic and concealing the user's IP address, but it is only one part of a broader security strategy. Additional tools like password managers, antivirus software, encrypted cloud storage, secure email, and identity protection services are recommended for optimal protection. Many VPN providers now offer bundled services, which can include these additional tools, making it easier for users to manage their online security. Bundling services can provide convenience, easy access to various tools, and potential cost savings. However, there are also reasons to consider an á la carte approach, such as the possibility of lower costs with individual subscriptions, concerns about trusting a single provider with all services, and the need for specific services that may not be included in a VPN bundle.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

Cyber Agency—50% Of Microsoft Windows PCs ‘Vulnerable To Attack’

Microsoft has decided to extend the life of Windows 10, affecting approximately 700 million users, with around 250 million lacking the necessary hardware for Windows 11. About 50% of users are still on Windows 10, leading to concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has warned that devices not meeting Windows 11 requirements are vulnerable to attacks and highlighted the risks of remaining on Windows 10, referencing the WannaCry ransomware attack as an example. Despite Microsoft's efforts to encourage upgrades, many users are hesitant to change, and the NCSC suggests that the inertia of users may pose the greatest threat to security.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

I Tried Signal, Telegram and WhatsApp, and This Is the One I’d Recommend

Telegram retains data necessary for its operations, including metadata like IP addresses. In 2024, the company updated its privacy policy to clarify that it can disclose IP addresses and phone numbers of rule violators to law enforcement upon valid legal requests. This resulted in Telegram fulfilling 900 information requests from U.S. authorities in 2024, affecting 2,253 individuals. Telegram has experienced data breaches, including a 2020 incident where 42 million Iranian users had their data compromised and a 2019 vulnerability exploited by Chinese agencies affecting protestor identities in Hong Kong. The platform allows users to create public channels for sharing content, but these channels are not end-to-end encrypted. Telegram offers secret chats that are end-to-end encrypted, but they are limited to the device of origin. The app allows for automatic message deletion, with a minimum interval of one day, and features a self-destruct option for accounts after a period of inactivity. Telegram's client applications are open-source, while its server-side code is closed-source. The company operates on a freemium model, offering a paid tier for enhanced features. Telegram is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.