Signal

AppWizard
July 8, 2025
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.
Winsage
July 7, 2025
Microsoft has officially announced the discontinuation of PowerShell 2.0, as confirmed through a recent update from the Windows Insider program. PowerShell 2.0, which debuted with Windows 7 and was included in several other versions, has been deprecated since 2017 but remained available for backward compatibility. Most current Insider Preview builds of Windows 11 have removed PowerShell 2.0, and it has also been deprecated for Windows Server. Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for its removal from the server operating system.
AppWizard
July 7, 2025
Spotify has updated its Android Auto app with a new design and features, including the "Jam" feature that allows drivers to host shared playback sessions. Passengers can join by scanning a QR code and contribute to the music queue, while the host maintains control. The update also includes a "Downloaded" tab for easier access to offline music, a floating Search button for manual track selection, and a streamlined interface for safer navigation. This update is part of Google's plans to enhance media app capabilities within Android Auto, with similar updates expected for other apps. The update is currently being rolled out on the Google Play Store.
AppWizard
July 6, 2025
Recent findings have identified a cyberespionage campaign using Google Play to distribute malicious applications, with four apps on the Play Store and six through other channels. The campaign disguises itself as romantic outreach via messaging services like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. The malicious applications fall into three categories: 1. Standard Messaging Applications, which gather personal information and include the VajraSpy trojan. 2. Accessibility Exploiters, which use accessibility features to intercept communications and include the Wave Chat app that records calls and captures keystrokes. 3. News Medium Impersonators, which solicit phone numbers and can intercept contacts and sensitive documents. Twelve dangerous applications have been flagged: Rafaqat, Private Talk, MeetMe, Let’s Chat, Quick Chat, Chit Cat, YohooTalk, TikTok, Hello Cha, Nidus, GlowChat, and Wave Chat. The first six apps had over 1,400 downloads before removal. These applications use advanced techniques to bypass Android security protocols, allowing eavesdropping on communications. Users are advised to uninstall these apps immediately, exercise caution when downloading new applications, and regularly review app permissions and system updates to enhance security.
Winsage
July 3, 2025
Windows 10 PCs are receiving an update identified as KB5001716, which is part of Microsoft's strategy to prepare users for the eventual end of Windows 10. This update is being rolled out to PCs running Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, with the latter already having reached its end of support. Users may receive notifications about issues that could affect Windows Update's ability to keep their devices secure, including alerts that their version of Windows is nearing the end of its support lifecycle. The official end of Windows 10 is set for October of this year. Microsoft is managing notifications to minimize disruption to users. If users experience issues with the update, they can resolve it by uninstalling the existing KB5001716 from Windows Update.
AppWizard
June 29, 2025
Simon Collins-Laflamme, founder of OG Hypixel Studios, intends to engage with Riot Games about reviving Hytale, a game previously canceled after generating significant anticipation and over 60 million views for its announcement trailer. Collins-Laflamme, who sold the studio and game to Riot, acknowledged the complexity of the revival process and indicated it would take months to get answers. Additionally, Eric Barone, creator of Stardew Valley, expressed a willingness to potentially intervene in the Hytale situation but emphasized the need to understand the reasons for the game's failure first.
AppWizard
June 28, 2025
TypInc is a roguelike deckbuilding typing game where players type passages on screen to survive for 30 days. Each day presents different passages, including excerpts from public domain literature like 1984 and The Yellow Wallpaper. Players earn in-game currency for survival, which can be spent on perks that enhance typing performance. The game features sound effects for bonuses and live feedback on typing accuracy and speed. TypInc is set to launch on June 30, with a demo currently available on Steam. It may face challenges on platforms like the Steam Deck due to the small screen affecting typing speeds.
AppWizard
June 27, 2025
Valve's "Early Access" initiative on Steam currently features 14,056 titles. Successful games like Kerbal Space Program, ARMA 3, Prison Architect, and Kenshi have received positive reviews. However, many players have become disillusioned with the program, particularly due to experiences like the prolonged development of DayZ, which spent nearly five years in Early Access. The program's guidelines require developers to maintain transparency and accountability, but some exploit these rules for financial gain without completing their projects. The Early Access program is intended to gather player feedback, provide funding, and support development, but issues with unfinished games and unmet promises have raised concerns about its integrity.
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