video calls

AppWizard
March 15, 2026
Google has introduced a desktop windowing mode as the default on tablets running the latest Android builds, starting with the Pixel Tablet. This feature includes freeform windows, a persistent taskbar, and the ability to create and switch between multiple desktops. Users can manipulate apps by floating, resizing, snapping to edges, and minimizing or maximizing them, similar to traditional PC or Mac interfaces. The taskbar displays all running apps across desktops, allowing for quick app switching. Users can snap two apps side by side and resize them simultaneously. Desktop windowing allows for rapid app transitions, enhancing efficiency when managing multiple applications. However, it consumes vertical space on the display, making full-screen and split-screen views more efficient for tasks requiring fewer apps. The feature builds on Android 12L's enhancements for large screens and aims to improve productivity on tablets. Despite its advantages, there are some limitations, such as unclear app movement between desktops and limited keyboard shortcuts. Users can mix modes, using desktops for multi-app workflows while reverting to full-screen or split-screen views when needed. This update signifies a shift in how users interact with tablets, making them more functional for productivity tasks.
AppWizard
March 11, 2026
Meta has consolidated its Messenger services under Facebook's primary web platform. Messenger originated in 2008 as "Facebook Chat" and became a standalone application in 2011. It has since evolved to include features such as voice calls, video calls, and group chats.
AppWizard
February 23, 2026
Russian military personnel have been advised to stop using the messaging application Max due to security concerns, as reported by Mediazona. This recommendation follows intensified restrictions on Telegram, which began in the summer of 2025. The Federal Security Service (FSB) has warned that Ukrainian forces can intercept Telegram communications, prompting worries about the safety of sensitive information. Access to Telegram has been increasingly limited, with plans for further restrictions on media file access reported by RBC. Pro-war advocates, including Sergey Mironov, have criticized these limitations and defended Telegram as a reliable communication tool. Despite the Kremlin's claims that troops do not rely on Telegram, the Russian Defense Ministry asserts that they use standard communications equipment and a domestically developed messenger. On February 18, Russian Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadaev stated that Telegram would not be blocked for frontline use for now.
AppWizard
February 12, 2026
Russia has imposed further restrictions on Telegram, citing insufficient action against "criminal and terrorist" activities, following earlier limitations on voice and video calls. A Russian court has fined Telegram approximately 11 million roubles for not removing content deemed illegal by the state. Telegram serves as a critical communication tool for military personnel and has been utilized by both Russian and Ukrainian forces since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The new restrictions are expected to disrupt communication among soldiers, who have appealed for the state to reconsider its stance. The Kremlin has suggested users transition to the state-owned messaging service MAX, which critics claim enables government surveillance. Other platforms like WhatsApp and YouTube have also faced restrictions from the Kremlin.
AppWizard
February 12, 2026
Slack Messenger, developed by Salesforce Inc., is a workplace communication platform designed to replace internal emails with a channel-based messaging system. It organizes discussions into channels for specific projects, teams, or clients, facilitating smoother collaboration and providing a comprehensive view of the work environment. Key features include: - Channel-based messaging: Organizes conversations by topic or team. - Searchable history: Provides instant access to past messages and files. - Huddles and clips: Allows for informal discussions and asynchronous updates. - App integrations: Centralizes notifications from various tools. - Workflow Builder: Automates repetitive tasks. - Granular notifications: Minimizes notification fatigue. - Enterprise security: Offers necessary controls for secure implementation in large organizations. User feedback highlights a reduction in internal emails and improved transparency, but some users express concerns about notification overload and the proliferation of channels. Slack is compared favorably to competitors like Microsoft Teams, Google Chat, and Discord, particularly in usability and integration capabilities.
AppWizard
February 12, 2026
On February 11, WhatsApp announced that the Russian government has taken steps to "fully block" its services in the country as part of a strategy to promote a state-sponsored “super” app called Max. Max is a state-run “super-app” developed by VKontakte that integrates messaging, government services, document storage, banking, and other applications. The Russian government has mandated that smartphone manufacturers pre-install Max on all devices sold in the country. In addition to WhatsApp, Telegram has also faced restrictions, with plans to impose limitations due to its failure to block certain content. The Russian communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, is set to impose restrictions on Telegram, and the platform is facing a fine of 64 million rubles for not removing restricted content. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that WhatsApp's return to Russia depends on Meta's compliance with local regulations.
AppWizard
February 12, 2026
Russia is implementing a nationwide blockade of WhatsApp as part of a strategy to promote a Kremlin-supported messaging alternative. The Russian government has removed WhatsApp from the national online directory, making it inaccessible without workarounds like VPNs, and users are experiencing widespread outages. Previously, Russia had limited WhatsApp’s calling features due to security concerns. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that WhatsApp's return depends on Meta's compliance with Russian law and willingness to engage with regulators. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a "sovereign internet" and reduce reliance on foreign digital platforms.
Winsage
February 11, 2026
Microsoft discontinued Windows Phone in 2017, a decision regretted by CEO Satya Nadella. Nex Computer is now taking pre-orders for the NexPhone, which aims to run Android, Linux, and Windows 11. The device features a custom Mobile UI designed for touch interactions, reminiscent of Windows Phone. When connected to an external display, it offers full Windows 11 capabilities but lacks cellular connectivity in Windows mode. The NexPhone is not intended to replace primary smartphones but serves as a secondary option with mid-range performance, powered by Qualcomm's DragonWing QCM6490 chip, 12GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. It operates on Windows for Arm, which may present compatibility issues. While in Windows mode, cellular calling and SMS functions are unavailable, requiring users to switch to Android for those features. The device has a rugged design with military-grade build quality, a 120 Hz 6.58-inch display, a 64 MP main camera, and a 5,000 mAh battery, priced at 9.
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