Tablets Archives

AppWizard

December 5, 2025

After WhatsApp and Apple FaceTime, Russia bans Snapchat; government says: App being used to… – The Times of India

Russia's state internet regulator, Roskomnadzor, has blocked Snapchat and imposed restrictions on Apple's FaceTime, accusing both platforms of facilitating terrorist activities and criminal operations. The agency stated that these apps were used to organize terrorist activities, recruit individuals, and commit fraud against citizens. Snapchat has been unavailable in Russia since October 10. This action is part of Russia's broader strategy to restrict digital communications, having already blocked major Western platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X, along with messaging services such as Signal and Viber. Telegram's voice and video calls are also facing limitations. The Kremlin is promoting MAX, a state-controlled app that combines messaging, government services, and payments, which is mandatory on new mobile devices. WhatsApp has received warnings of a potential ban if Meta does not comply with law enforcement requests. Additionally, virtual private network services are increasingly being blocked by Russian authorities.

BetaBeacon

December 4, 2025

Emulating PC games on Android is easier than ever, and you can thank Valve

Valve is contributing to Windows emulation on Android by sponsoring the development of key emulation tools such as the Pex emulator and the Proton compatibility layer. These tools allow Windows games designed for traditional x86 PC hardware to run on Arm architecture, enabling PC emulation on devices like Android phones and tablets.

BetaBeacon

December 3, 2025

Google Pixel Phones Just Got a Game‑Changing Android 16 Update

- Google has introduced new screen customizations for Pixel phones in Android 16 QPR2. - Users can now customize app icons with new shape options on the home screen. - Pixel phone users can place widgets on the lock screen by swiping left, with limited options compared to the home screen. - Other lock screen changes include a new low-light mode for the screen saver and fingerprint scanning on the switched-off display. - Users can now disable or reduce blur effects in background elements, adjust HDR intensity, and schedule expanded dark mode. - The update also adds a more flexible split-screen layout, AI-powered notifications, and strengthened parental controls. - Android 16 QPR2 includes the December security patch to fix vulnerabilities and protect against threats.

AppWizard

December 3, 2025

Steam Deck lead reveals Valve is funding ARM compatibility of Windows games “to expand PC gaming” and release “ultraportables” in the future

Valve has been supporting Fex, an open-source initiative for enabling Windows games to run on ARM architecture, for nearly ten years. The Fex compatibility layer was developed to ensure reliability for gamers. Valve aims to expand PC gaming options by allowing Windows games to operate on ARM devices, which could include low-power laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The company is developing an ARM version of SteamOS that will maintain the same core components as its x86 version, with a tailored version of Proton that includes the Fex emulator. While there are challenges with compatibility, particularly with modern multiplayer titles and anti-cheat mechanisms, Valve is working to address these issues. The demand for alternatives to Windows in the gaming market is increasing, particularly with the success of SteamOS on the Steam Deck.

BetaBeacon

December 3, 2025

Red Dead Redemption now on mobile phones: How to play on Android, iPhone and iPad

Rockstar Games has brought Red Dead Redemption to mobile phones, including the Undead Nightmare expansion. The game is available for purchase on Android and iOS for .99, but Netflix subscribers can download and play it for free. The game features touch-based controls and menus tailored for smaller screens. The storyline follows John Marston as he tries to secure the release of his family by tracking down members of his former gang. The game was first launched in 2010 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 and has since been released on various platforms. The mobile system requirements for Android and iOS devices are specified. This release is part of Rockstar's efforts to offer a full console-scale experience on portable devices.

AppWizard

December 3, 2025

Driver discount programs, estate classes and multi-player Minecraft offered in Pequot Lakes

Pequot Lakes Community Education is offering several courses for various interests and age groups. Participants can register online at pequotlakes.arux.app or by calling 218-568-9200. - 55+ Driver Discount Program: Scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Pequot Lakes Community Library. The class fee is not specified. Pre-registration is required; walk-ins will not be accepted. - Estate Essentials: Q & A with a MN Will & Trust Attorney: An online session on Tuesday, December 9, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The fee is not specified. Participants can ask questions about wills, trusts, probate, nursing homes, taxes, and beneficiaries. - Multi-Player Minecraft: Theme Park Builder (ages 1-5): Online course on Thursdays, December 11 and 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. The fee is not specified. Participants will create a custom theme park and receive a copy of their world post-class. A PC or Macbook is required; Chromebooks, tablets, and phones are not compatible.

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

‘Big Brother cannot watch us’: Indian government phone app plan sparks outrage

India has directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a government-operated cybersecurity application called Sanchar Saathi on all mobile devices manufactured or imported for use within the country. The app is designed to enhance protection against fraud and cyber threats, allowing users to block and track lost or stolen phones and identify fraudulent mobile subscriptions. Major smartphone companies have a 90-day compliance window, and the app must be visible and accessible during device setup. Critics, including the Internet Freedom Foundation, have raised concerns about user privacy and governmental control over personal devices, while the Indian telecom minister described the app as a voluntary system. The government also requires that the app be pushed to devices already in circulation through software updates. Political opposition has emerged, with calls for the order's retraction, citing constitutional concerns.

Tech Optimizer

December 2, 2025

Surfshark One Antivirus Down 88% in Cyber Monday Sale

Surfshark is offering its Surfshark One Antivirus plan for .19 per month over a 27-month period, which is an 88% discount from the regular rate. The total cost for this plan amounts to approximately . This bundle includes real-time antivirus scanning, a VPN, breach alerts, and a private search tool. The deal is particularly beneficial for holiday shoppers, as cybercriminal activity increases during this time. The plan is advantageous for frequent travelers, families, and students.

AppWizard

December 1, 2025

Government warns WhatsApp, Telegram and other messaging apps: Within 90 days, make sure your app stops working if… – The Times of India

By February 2026, India's telecom authority will implement a SIM binding policy requiring users to continuously verify their registered SIM cards for messaging applications like WhatsApp to combat cyber fraud. Users will be logged out of web versions of these apps after six hours, necessitating re-authentication via QR code. Messaging platforms have a 90-day period to comply with this requirement, which means apps will stop functioning if the registered SIM is removed. The new regulations classify these platforms as Telecommunication Identifier User Entities (TIUEs), expanding regulatory oversight. Challenges may arise for travelers and multi-device users, as they may face difficulties maintaining access to services. Critics, including industry insiders, question the feasibility and effectiveness of the policy, calling it problematic and an overreach. Messaging platforms must comply by early 2026 to avoid regulatory consequences.

AppWizard

November 29, 2025

‘I don’t trust it’: Russians sceptical about state-backed messenger MAX

MAX is a new messaging platform launched by VK in Moscow, designed to consolidate various services and mandated by Russian authorities to be included in all new smartphones and tablets starting September 1. This move coincides with a ban on calls from foreign messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. MAX is promoted as a secure alternative to foreign apps, but lacks end-to-end encryption, raising privacy concerns. The Russian media regulator, Roskomnadzor, announced plans to consider a complete ban on WhatsApp, which has nearly 100 million users in Russia, citing its role in facilitating criminal activity. Public sentiment is mixed, with some individuals expressing distrust towards MAX while others seem unconcerned about the transition to it or other messaging alternatives.