Category: Software

  • Starlink Download Speeds Surge After Recent Satellite Network Glitch

    Starlink Download Speeds Surge After Recent Satellite Network Glitch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The longest Starlink outage occurred on July 25, affecting many users for at least 2.5 hours.
    2. The outage was caused by issues with key internal software services that manage the core network.
    3. Starlink operates over 100 gateways in the U.S. to enhance Internet service in remote areas.
    4. SpaceX is upgrading ground stations for upcoming V3 satellites, which will significantly increase data capacity.
    5. Despite the outage, some users experienced improved download speeds afterward, suggesting a positive network enhancement.


    Starlink Internet interruptions are quite rare, as the network has mostly remained stable since SpaceX began launching its initial Starlink satellites into orbit.

    A Surprising Outage

    Therefore, the longest Starlink outage since its launch took many by surprise on Friday, July 25. Many of its six million users across the US and worldwide experienced a lack of satellite Internet for at least 2.5 hours, with some being affected for even longer.

    For the first time, Starlink issued a global outage alert on its website and managed to fix the problem relatively quickly for most users on the same day. SpaceX expressed its regret and explained that the issue was due to “key internal software services that operate the core network,” possibly pointing to the largest ground network supporting a satellite constellation ever created.

    Technical Infrastructure

    In the United States, Starlink runs over 100 gateways, each equipped with 150 antennas, to help eliminate dead zones and enhance ping for users in remote areas and rural settings. These antennas are produced in Redmond, WA, and are designed to channel the satellite Internet signal through the country’s extensive fiber optic infrastructure, thus enhancing coverage, reducing latency, and stabilizing connections.

    SpaceX is currently upgrading its ground stations in anticipation of launching its V3 satellites, which promise to deliver 10 times the data throughput of the current models, reaching up to 1 Tbps. For context, the Starlink Mini dish has a maximum speed of 100 Mbps, while only the Performance dish can utilize gigabit speeds. With each launch of V3 satellites in 2026, SpaceX plans to add 60 Tbps of network capacity, necessitating a new generation of terrestrial gateways to support this growth.

    Stability Concerns

    Regrettably, the ground-based network of Starlink can sometimes create instability, as was evident during the recent lengthy outage. A memo from SpaceX shared with suppliers revealed that a software update sent to the Starlink gateways overloaded their hardware, causing the network to stop processing data packets while the core update was being implemented.

    Although SpaceX provided the usual explanations and reassurances that they had learned from this incident, users of Starlink began to observe a surprisingly positive change over the weekend. After the outage, some users reported that their download speeds increased by three times or more, suggesting that the unfortunate update to the gateways was not merely a bug fix, but rather a significant network enhancement.

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  • Xiaomi Adds New Phones to End-of-Life List Amid HyperOS 3 Focus

    Xiaomi Adds New Phones to End-of-Life List Amid HyperOS 3 Focus

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has stopped development on HyperOS 2 and will not provide major updates for it.
    2. HyperOS 3 is in focus for future updates, with no confirmed release date yet.
    3. Certain older models will receive the Android 16 update, but many smartphones will not get HyperOS 3 support.
    4. The anticipated Android 16 update is expected to improve user interface and overall system performance.
    5. Beta testing for HyperOS 3 may start later this year, with the stable version likely launching with the Xiaomi 16 series.


    Xiaomi has allegedly halted development on HyperOS 2, which was originally launched as a skin for Android 15. Recently, with the 2.3 update, the company has introduced Android 16 for certain devices. However, it’s HyperOS 3 that is set to introduce significant changes.

    No More Updates for HyperOS 2

    This shift in focus means that there will be no major updates aimed at improving HyperOS 2. Xiaomi has not yet revealed a definite release date for the stable version of HyperOS 3, but some older models are anticipated to receive the forthcoming Android 16 update.

    End-of-Life Announcements

    In related news, Xiaomi has disclosed the end-of-life timelines for various smartphones. These newly listed models are set to receive their last security updates in September 2025, after which they will no longer receive any official updates. The devices affected include:

    Many of these smartphones did not even get the HyperOS 2 update, indicating they are definitely off the list for HyperOS 3 support. The anticipated Android 16 update for Xiaomi devices is expected to feature a more polished user interface, aiming to deliver a better user experience.

    Performance Enhancements Expected

    The update is also predicted to enhance overall system performance, with improved visual effects and smoother transitions compared to HyperOS 2. Rumors suggest that Xiaomi might commence beta testing for HyperOS 3 later this year, with the stable version likely launching alongside the Xiaomi 16 series.

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  • Apple Set to Introduce Age Restrictions for App Store

    Apple Set to Introduce Age Restrictions for App Store

    Key Takeaways

    1. Online age checks are gaining attention and will impact platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter).
    2. These measures aim to protect younger users from dangerous content and may be integrated into a new App Store interface.
    3. Age verification could occur when downloading social media or health-related apps to prevent access to violent content.
    4. New regulations may lead to age-specific versions of apps to comply with these age checks.
    5. Information about these initiatives comes from a reliable leak account, suggesting plans may be tailored for the Chinese market.


    Online age checks are getting a lot of attention today, as they are set to impact many parts of the internet, including platforms like Reddit and X (previously known as Twitter).

    Intended Protection

    These measures are meant to safeguard younger users from potentially dangerous content and are reportedly on their way to being included in a new App Store interface.

    The age verification might be triggered when a user attempts to download a new social media application or apps related to health.

    Preventing Access to Violent Content

    Furthermore, this initiative could aim to block minors from viewing “violent” content, which could apply to certain games available online.

    Over time, we might see various age-specific versions of the same app as a result of these new regulations.

    Leaked Information

    These claims have surfaced from a leak account that is usually reliable and, interestingly, often shares information on Weibo—hinting that Apple’s new plans could be tailored specifically for the Chinese market.

    This comes at a time when Apple has had to ease some of its rules, particularly those about payment methods for apps and what apps can perform functions like internet browsing on iPads and iPhones.

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  • Brave Browser Disables Windows Recall Screenshot Feature

    Brave Browser Disables Windows Recall Screenshot Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Brave will disable Windows 11’s Recall screenshot feature by default to protect user privacy.
    2. Recall captures screenshots every few seconds and stores them unencrypted, raising security concerns.
    3. Microsoft has made changes to Recall, allowing users to opt-out and excluding certain applications from its use.
    4. Brave has modified its code to classify all browsing windows as private, preventing Recall from capturing any activity.
    5. The Recall feature will be available soon in the public release of Windows 11, but Brave users can toggle it on if desired.


    Brave is not happy with Windows 11.

    The privacy-centric browser Brave will, by default, stop the Recall screenshot feature of Windows 11. This contentious Microsoft feature captures screenshots of a user’s screen every few seconds, which has angered many because it could be used as a backdoor into people’s private activities.

    Background on Recall

    Recall was introduced last May to assist Windows users in reverting their PC to an earlier state. One of the tools used for this purpose was an automatic screenshot feature that recorded instances of a user’s active screens every few seconds, saving these images. However, these screenshots were stored in an unencrypted format, making it easy for other software (including malware) and malicious users to see a record of everything users did on their computers.

    Changes to the Recall Feature

    Microsoft has since backed off from the mandatory use of Recall, although users can still choose to enable it. Part of this rollback allowed software developers to exclude their applications from Recall. Moreover, Microsoft has indicated that Recall will not take screenshots of web browsing windows classified as “private” by the system (like Chrome’s Incognito mode).

    To ensure Recall does not take pictures of users’ browsing habits, the developers of Brave have modified the browser’s code to mark all browsing windows as private, at least from the operating system’s viewpoint. Therefore, all Brave browser windows will be exempt from Recall’s scanning.

    Future Updates

    This feature is activated by default and has already been implemented in Brave’s Nightly builds. It is set to reach the stable version in the upcoming weeks.

    Users who still wish to use Recall while on Brave can easily enable the feature again through a simple toggle in the browser’s settings.

    Currently, Windows Recall is limited to Preview builds but is anticipated to be available in the public release of Windows 11 shortly.

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  • Apple Launches Public Beta for iOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26

    Apple Launches Public Beta for iOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s significant OS updates for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches will roll out in September, with public beta versions available now.
    2. Users can join the Apple Beta Program to explore updates for free, but should back up data and avoid using beta on essential devices due to potential bugs.
    3. The updates feature a redesigned user interface called “Liquid Glass,” with transparency effects and a revamped camera app on iPhones.
    4. iPadOS 26 introduces “true” multitasking, while macOS 26 emphasizes gaming with a new “Games” app and updated graphics interface.
    5. The Apple Beta Program allows users to test new features early, but caution is advised when using beta software.


    Apple is set to roll out its significant operating system updates for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches in September. Meanwhile, these updates are already accessible as public beta versions, allowing users to explore them for free. To participate, simply register for the Apple Beta Program and turn on beta updates on your Apple device by navigating to System Settings, then General, and selecting Software Update.

    Once you’ve signed up, you can download the beta version of the new operating system just like you would with a standard update. However, keep in mind that beta updates often contain bugs, so it’s wise to back up your data before proceeding with the installation. It’s also best to avoid installing a beta OS on devices that you depend on daily. In this piece, we’ll outline which iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches are compatible with the upcoming operating systems.

    Redesigned User Experience

    The updates primarily focus on introducing a completely overhauled user interface known as “Liquid Glass.” Apple has increased the use of transparency effects to add depth and modernize the overall appearance. Additionally, the iPhone will feature a revamped camera app and the capability to translate speech system-wide with Apple Intelligence, even during video calls. The new “Games” app is designed to act as a launcher for games and a platform for chatting with friends, much like Steam. There’s also Visual Intelligence, which can examine on-screen objects and respond to queries about them, similar to Google’s Circle to Search feature.

    Enhanced Multitasking and Gaming

    With iPadOS 26, iPads will finally support “true” multitasking, allowing multiple app windows and more adaptable background processes. Surprisingly, macOS 26 puts a strong emphasis on gaming, adding the “Liquid Glass” design along with a games overlay, the “Games” app, and the updated Metal 4 graphics interface. Lastly, watchOS 26 brings a feature called “Workout Buddy” to the Apple Watch, a voice assistant specially tailored for workout sessions.

    Join the Apple Beta Program

    To get started with the Apple Beta Program, simply visit the official Apple website to sign up. This way, you can experience the latest features before they are officially released. Remember, though, to approach beta testing with caution and ensure your important data is backed up!

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  • Snapchat’s New Feature Alerts Friends When You Arrive Home Safe

    Snapchat’s New Feature Alerts Friends When You Arrive Home Safe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Home Safe feature automatically notifies friends when you reach home.
    2. Friends receive a single alert, reducing the need for constant check-ins.
    3. Users control who receives Home Safe alerts based on location sharing.
    4. Alerts are triggered automatically upon arrival at home.
    5. Users must define their home location on the Snap Map to use the feature.


    Snapchat is introducing a new feature called Home Safe, designed to help you inform your loved ones when you have safely reached your home.

    Easy Alerts for Friends

    Expanding on its current location features, Home Safe allows you to automatically notify your friends in a chat, eliminating the need for you to remember to send a message manually.

    While various apps offer real-time location sharing, these alerts mean your friends won’t have to constantly check in on your journey. According to Snap, the notification is sent just once and will turn off automatically after that.

    Control Your Notifications

    You have full control over who gets these alerts. The notifications can only be directed to friends with whom you are already sharing your location, allowing you to choose specifically who will receive the Home Safe alert.

    An alert is triggered when the app determines that you have reached your home destination.

    Setting Up Home Safe

    To take advantage of this feature, you must first define your home location on the Snap Map. You can do this by tapping your Bitmoji and selecting “My Home.”

    Once your location is saved, you can click the Map icon in your chats and press the “Home Safe” button when you start heading back home.

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  • Philips Hue App Update Enhances Smart Light Reconnection Process

    Philips Hue App Update Enhances Smart Light Reconnection Process

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app version 5.47 has been released, focusing on improving user experience.
    2. Users can now easily reconnect unreachable devices through a guided settings page.
    3. The app allows users to verify power connections and reconnect devices via QR code or manual search.
    4. The app version is currently available on the Apple App Store, with an Android version coming soon.
    5. Recent updates have also been made for Philips Hue lamps, light fixtures, and the Philips Hue Bridge.


    A new release of the Philips Hue app is now available for the smart home brand’s customers. The latest version, 5.47, is the second update for July 2025, following version 5.46, which included small bug fixes and enhancements for stability.

    Enhanced User Experience

    The Philips Hue app in version 5.47 brings valuable updates for those using the brand’s smart lighting solutions. If a device becomes unreachable, users can now access the settings page to find guidance on how to reconnect it. When a light is disconnected, users can go to the device settings by selecting the product card, clicking on (…) > Light Settings > Reconnect. This will prompt users to verify the power connection. If everything checks out, users can proceed with the reconnection process, either by scanning a QR code or searching for the device manually. Once reconnected, the device is supposed to keep its previous configurations.

    Download Availability

    You can download the Philips Hue app version 5.47 from the Apple App Store right now, while an Android version is anticipated to be available soon on the Google Play Store. Additionally, there has been a recent update for various Philips Hue lamps and light fixtures, along with an upgrade for users of the Philips Hue Bridge, which is currently priced at $50.65 on Amazon.

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  • WhatsApp Now Supports Reminders: How It Works Explained

    WhatsApp Now Supports Reminders: How It Works Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. WhatsApp has introduced a new “Remind me” feature, which is not available on Telegram.
    2. The “Remind me” feature allows users to set reminders for sent or received messages, unlike Telegram’s message scheduling.
    3. Users can create multiple reminders across different chats and delete them by holding the message and tapping the bell icon.
    4. The feature is currently limited to beta testers but will be available to all users soon.
    5. Practical uses include setting reminders for events, appointments, or personal notes, such as links to articles or videos.


    When it comes to features, WhatsApp often finds itself lagging behind Telegram. Nevertheless, the messaging app owned by Meta has recently been making efforts to keep pace by introducing new functionalities. In fact, WhatsApp has launched a feature that Telegram does not offer — a reminder function.

    Differentiating Features

    This should not be mistaken for a message scheduler, which Telegram does provide but WhatsApp does not. A message scheduler lets users schedule a time for a message to be sent to someone, whereas WhatsApp’s ‘Remind me’ feature allows you to set a reminder for a message that you have sent or received.

    With this feature, users can pick a specific time to be reminded about a certain message, such as for an event, appointment, or even a topic they want to look back on later. Currently, it appears that this feature is only accessible to beta testers, but it is expected to be rolled out to all users in the near future.

    Using the Reminder Feature

    To use the message reminder function, users can create multiple reminders on various messages within the same chat or across different conversations. They can also delete a reminder by pressing and holding the message that has the reminder and tapping the bell icon at the top of the display. Only the individual who set the reminder will receive a notification about it.

    There are several practical applications for the Remind me feature. For example, it can serve as a reminder for an event invite sent through WhatsApp. By setting a reminder on the message, users will have a better chance of not forgetting important dates. Additionally, this feature can also be utilized for personal reminders, as WhatsApp now includes an option to message yourself. Users might set a reminder on a link to an article or a video so they can enjoy it later.

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  • Naked Eye Interstellar Visitor Could Soon Appear in Night Sky

    Naked Eye Interstellar Visitor Could Soon Appear in Night Sky

    Key Takeaways

    – 3I/ATLAS is an ancient celestial object, approximately three billion years old, traveling at 210,000 kilometers per hour.
    – Researchers at Oxford University are using updated computer models and data from the Gaia space observatory to study its origin in the Milky Way.
    – The object contains a significant amount of water ice, which may create a visible tail when it approaches the Sun.
    – Its exact path is not fully known, but it is expected to come near Mars, requiring further observations to determine its trajectory.
    – Studying 3I/ATLAS could provide valuable insights into the universe and events beyond our solar system.


    A few days back, an object from beyond the stars was detected within our solar system. Astronomers are keeping a close eye on it, as they think it might soon be visible to everyone without a telescope when it gets near the Sun.

    Its Age and Speed

    This celestial body, called 3I/ATLAS, might be one of the oldest things humans have ever seen. It’s estimated to be about three billion years old, zooming through space at an impressive speed of 210,000 kilometers per hour. Scientists suggest that it comes from a different part of the Milky Way than the area where we are currently located.

    Research Findings

    In more detail, researchers at Oxford University have created and updated a computer model to study this object. They use data from the Gaia space observatory, which helps pinpoint its origin in the “thick disk” of our galaxy, an area known for being the birthplace of many ancient stars.

    Composition and Visibility

    What truly fascinates researchers is the makeup of this interstellar visitor. It contains a lot of water ice, which may cause it to develop a tail when it gets close to the Sun, as the heat turns the ice into vapor. This sight would undoubtedly be amazing and visible to the naked eye.

    Even though this sounds like something from a sci-fi movie, similar to the comet C/2020 F3 Neowise, we need to proceed with caution. The exact path of 3I/ATLAS isn’t precisely known yet, but we do know it will come near Mars. More observations are essential to figure out its route through our solar system and whether it will create a stunning display over several days.

    Importance of 3I/ATLAS

    Besides this, the study of 3I/ATLAS will help scientists gain a clearer understanding of the universe and the events happening beyond our solar system. There’s no doubt that ongoing research will reveal new insights, even if certain unanswered questions linger.

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  • Transform Your MacBook Touchpad Into a Scale with This Free App

    Transform Your MacBook Touchpad Into a Scale with This Free App

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MacBook Pro and MacBook Air feature a haptic trackpad that detects click force for advanced gestures.
    2. Developer Krish Shah created an app called TrackWeight, allowing users to weigh lighter objects using the trackpad.
    3. Users must keep a finger on the trackpad and ensure items fit entirely on it for accurate weighing.
    4. The app requires downloading source code, compiling it, and running it in Xcode, with necessary adjustments to app sandbox settings.
    5. TrackWeight provides approximate weight measurements and should be used cautiously, with a maximum tested weight of 3.5 kilograms to avoid damaging the trackpad.


    The Apple MacBook Pro and MacBook Air feature a haptic trackpad that senses not only when a click happens but also the force behind it. Apple uses this ability for gestures, like looking up words with a strong click. Recently, Canadian developer Krish Shah has managed to turn the trackpad into a scale by analyzing the data collected and calculating the pressure, which translates to the weight of items placed on the touchpad.

    Introducing TrackWeight

    The outcome of his work is an application called TrackWeight, which is available for download at no cost from GitHub. This app enables users to weigh lighter objects, but there are several constraints. Firstly, a finger must be on the trackpad while weighing an object. Secondly, the items must be small enough to completely fit on the trackpad. Lastly, weighing electrically conductive objects requires preventing electrical contact, which can be done with a piece of fabric.

    Setup Challenges

    Another drawback is that users need to download the TrackWeight source code, compile it, and run it in Xcode after turning off the app sandbox in the project settings. Krish Shah mentions that TrackWeight can measure weights with reasonable accuracy, but he cautions that the app is still in an experimental stage, and results should be treated as approximations. Placing objects that are too heavy risks damaging the trackpad; testing has been done with a maximum weight of 3.5 kilograms.

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