restrictions Archives

AppWizard

August 29, 2025

Google’s working on making it easier to find calls you’ve recorded (APK teardown)

Google's Phone app is enhancing its call recording capabilities, particularly in version 189.0.798816824-publicbeta-pixel2024, which includes a new filter to help users locate recorded calls easily. This feature is still in development and not yet publicly available. Pixel users were introduced to a variant of call recording with the Call Notes feature for the Pixel 9, which records and attempts to transcribe calls. It is uncertain if these transcriptions will be integrated into the new call log filter.

AppWizard

August 27, 2025

Russia’s State-Backed Messaging App Is a Blatant Attempt at Control

Connectivity issues are affecting calls made from Russia via messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, with millions experiencing lagging audio and dropped calls due to government attempts to restrict access to these platforms. WhatsApp is used daily by 67% of Russians, while 62% use Telegram, making them vital for communication. The government is promoting the state-backed Max messenger as a replacement, although data indicates that mobile calls are more frequently exploited by scammers than messaging apps. Public-sector workers face pressure to switch their communications to Max, with concerns that a complete ban on Telegram and WhatsApp may occur. Discussions about integrating Max with essential services are ongoing, drawing parallels to China's WeChat, which operates under state control and lacks privacy protections. A study suggests Max operates as a comprehensive data collection center, raising concerns about privacy and freedom of expression. The evolving communication landscape in Russia poses significant implications for both domestic and international connections, potentially stifling dissent and making it harder to communicate with those abroad.

AppWizard

August 26, 2025

Google will verify Android developers distributing apps outside the Play store

Android developers distributing applications through third-party app stores will be required to undergo identity verification by Google starting in September 2026 in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global rollout expected in 2027. Developers must submit personal information, including legal name, address, email, and phone number, and may need to provide a government-issued ID. This change primarily affects developers outside the Google Play Store, as identity verification is already standard for those using it. Google aims to enhance security and reduce malware risks through this initiative. The company plans to create a separate Android developer console for non-commercial developers, imposing restrictions on apps and installations. Google is inviting developers to sign up for early access to the new rules and provide feedback before the official launch.

Winsage

August 25, 2025

I built a portable Windows 11 install on an external SSD, and you can do it too

Linux users can boot entire distributions from a flash drive, while Windows users lost the Windows To Go feature in 2020. The Rufus utility allows users to create a faux Windows To Go installation using a Windows 11 ISO. The process involves selecting the ISO and flash drive, adjusting the Image option, and starting the flashing process. A fast and large drive, such as a 128GB SSD, is recommended for better performance. Users may encounter driver issues and compatibility challenges across different devices. Despite initial setup hurdles, running Windows 11 from a flash drive can provide an efficient and portable workspace, with programs retaining settings across machines. A minimum of a 64GB USB drive is advisable for functionality.

AppWizard

August 24, 2025

I couldn’t find an ideal pet app, so I used Notion instead

A devoted cat owner faced challenges in managing vaccination schedules and health notes for their pets, leading to the use of Notion as a pet care management tool. The owner found existing pet care apps lacking in functionality and opted for Notion due to its customizable templates, reminders feature, and cross-device compatibility. They created a pet care page using the Pet Care Planner template, setting up profiles for their cats, Black Velvet and Loxi, and incorporating health information, medication details, and vet notes. Notion's database capabilities allowed for effective tracking of expenses and health incidents, especially with Loxi's diagnosis of Stage 2 Chronic Kidney disease. The owner also noted some limitations of Notion's free plan, such as restrictions on automations and mobile optimization issues, but found it effective for documenting health incidents and setting reminders. Future plans include expanding the template to manage pet-related chores.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

What kids don’t want you to know about Gen Alpha culture

Adults have historically struggled to understand youth culture, as exemplified by the generational gap highlighted in the 1964 film A Hard Day’s Night. Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, engages with culture in ways that differ from previous generations, primarily through digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok, where nearly half of younger kids' viewing time is spent. This shift has led to the formation of micro-communities and fleeting cultural moments rather than a cohesive narrative. Video games serve as a unifying force among youth, with a survey indicating that only 12 percent of 10- to 24-year-olds do not play games. In a post-pandemic context, young people prioritize safe spaces for self-expression, often seeking comfort in media that allows for autonomy, such as sandbox and open-world games like Roblox and Minecraft. The success of media like A Minecraft Movie reflects this trend, catering to children's interests rather than adult nostalgia. Young people actively resist content that feels imposed on them, seeking to reclaim their agency in a world that often overlooks their voices.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Russia mandates spy messenger app in occupied Ukraine

Yevhenia Virlych, editor-in-chief of Kavun.City, discussed the challenges faced by residents in temporarily occupied territories, highlighting communication restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. She noted that messaging applications are disrupted and that a Russian-promoted messaging app may activate users' cameras without consent, raising privacy concerns. Virlych reported a critical shortage of medical services and medicines in these regions and mentioned that many communities are experiencing severe water shortages due to the destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant. Additionally, on August 8, the National Resistance Center stated that residents are being forced to install spyware for data collection by Russian intelligence. A complete blackout occurred on August 19 in the occupied regions of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Google Meet Struggles in Russia Amid Push for State-Controlled Max Messaging App

On August 22, Russian officials expressed concerns about potential restrictions on Google Meet, fearing that it could monitor Russian citizens and share sensitive information with Western intelligence. Andrey Svintsov highlighted the need for limitations on tracking applications. Users in Russia reported disruptions with Google Meet, but Roskomnadzor stated that no restrictions had been implemented. The increased use of Google Meet followed a government ban on voice and video calls in apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, while authorities promoted the Kremlin-backed messenger Max, set to be preinstalled on new smartphones from September 1. Max, launched by VKontakte in March 2025, aims to replace foreign messaging apps and is associated with extensive surveillance capabilities. A blacklist of targeted platforms is being developed following President Putin's pledge to restrict foreign digital services. Additionally, pro-Russian hackers executed a cyberattack on a hydropower plant in Poland's Pomeranian Voivodeship, marking the second attack on the facility in recent months.

AppWizard

August 23, 2025

Russia pushes mandatory messaging app Max on all new devices

Russia is introducing a government-backed messenger app called Max, developed by VK, which will be mandatory for all new mobile phones and tablets starting in September. The app offers messaging, video calls, mobile payments, and access to state services. Critics express concerns that Max could function as a surveillance tool, collecting personal data such as financial information and location tracking. The Russian government aims to reduce reliance on Western apps, with recent restrictions on services like WhatsApp and Telegram. Max has reportedly achieved 18 million downloads, though some features are still being tested. Additionally, by 2026, Russia plans to require all smart TVs to come preloaded with a state-backed service for government channels.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Microsoft puts the squeeze on onmicrosoft.com freeloaders

Microsoft is advising organizations using the onmicrosoft.com domain for email to transition to a custom domain to avoid email throttling. Starting October 15, email delivery will be limited to 100 external recipients per organization within a 24-hour period, with the rollout extending to larger organizations by June 2026. This policy is in response to spammers exploiting the onmicrosoft.com domain, which affects its reputation. Organizations using a Microsoft Online Email Routing Address (MOERA) domain must migrate to a custom domain, update their primary SMTP addresses, and ensure non-test emails use the new domain. This migration may complicate administrative tasks, especially for those managing outdated products.