Category: Software

  • 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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  • WhatsApp Moves to Microsoft WebView2, Drops Windows 11 App

    WhatsApp Moves to Microsoft WebView2, Drops Windows 11 App

    Key Takeaways

    1. WhatsApp Beta on Windows 11 has transitioned to a WebView2-based framework, aligning it more with WhatsApp Web.
    2. The user interface resembles the previous app, but performance has decreased significantly.
    3. The new version operates as a desktop container running multiple processes, making it less efficient than the former native app.
    4. The WebView2 version uses about 30% more RAM compared to the native application, affecting reliability and user experience.
    5. This change allows Meta to manage a single code base for all app versions, but it compromises WhatsApp’s performance and attractiveness.


    A recent update for WhatsApp Beta on Windows 11 has replaced the original desktop application with a bulkier Microsoft WebView2-based framework. This change aligns the experience more closely with WhatsApp Web, resulting in the loss of numerous performance improvements that came with the native UWP (Universal Windows Platform) version.

    User Interface Changes

    As noted by Windows Latest, although the user interface closely resembles that of the previous native app, there are notable differences, primarily in performance which has slowed down. Microsoft’s new WebView2, utilized in Microsoft Edge, is based on the open-source Chromium project.

    Performance Drawbacks

    The latest WhatsApp Beta seems to function as a desktop container that executes web code, similar to how it operates in Edge. This shift means that the former native app, which was lightweight and used a single process, has been replaced. The new web-based version operates several processes in the background, which can be less efficient.

    Resource Usage

    According to tests conducted by Windows Latest, the WebView2 version consumes approximately 30% more RAM than the native application. The native version was not only more dependable but also provided superior notifications and a more seamless user interface. Moreover, it managed calls and screen sharing far more effectively.

    Despite the lack of official explanation for this transition, using WebView2 simplifies the process for Meta by allowing them to manage a single code base for all app versions. However, this change results in WhatsApp appearing less appealing than it did previously and consuming more system resources.

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  • Huawei HarmonyOS 5.1 Update Release Date for Your Device

    Huawei HarmonyOS 5.1 Update Release Date for Your Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. HarmonyOS 5.1 update will start rolling out by the end of July for select Huawei smartphones and tablets.
    2. Initial rollout includes flagship models like the Mate 70, Mate 60, Mate X5, and Pura series, along with Nova and Pocket devices.
    3. The update will enhance AI features and improve camera capabilities, especially in low-light conditions.
    4. Additional developer options will be introduced, focusing on improved UI components and secure access for applications.
    5. Other models like Nova 11, P60, and Mate 50 series are expected to receive the update in the coming months, while Mate 40 series may transition to HarmonyOS NEXT.


    If you have a newer Huawei smartphone or tablet, you might be eager for news about the upcoming software update.

    Good news is coming! After its introduction with the Huawei Pura 80 series back in June, Huawei has announced that the HarmonyOS 5.1 update will start rolling out to the first group of devices by the end of July. Although the exact launch date remains a secret, it is anticipated to arrive in the next few days.

    Update Details

    This update follows the software’s launch on devices like the Watch 5, which saw the introduction of fresh health tracking features and improvements to the user interface. Now, the focus shifts to what HarmonyOS 5.1 will bring to smartphones and tablets.

    Huawei has officially disclosed the list of smartphones and tablets that will receive the update this month. The rollout will initially target the company’s flagship and newer models.

    Included in the phone lineup are the Huawei Mate 70, Mate 60, and Mate X5 series, as well as the Mate XT Ultimate Design and Mate X6 series. Additionally, users of the Pura X and Pura 70 series will also benefit from this update. The list further encompasses the Huawei Pocket 2 and the Nova 14, Nova 13, and Nova 12 series.

    Tablet Users

    For those using tablets, the update is set to reach the Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 2025, MatePad Pro 11 2024, MatePad Pro 12.2, MatePad Air, and MatePad 11.5S.

    The software update includes a variety of enhancements, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence and camera capabilities. Users can look forward to smarter AI features and significant improvements in photography, especially for low-light conditions.

    Moreover, the update introduces additional developer options, featuring improved UI components and better secure access for applications to utilize system processes. These enhancements aim to provide a more flexible and powerful operating system experience.

    Future Updates

    If your device isn’t part of the initial rollout, you might not have to wait much longer. Models like the Nova 11 series, P60 series, and Mate 50 series are anticipated to receive the HarmonyOS 5.1 update in the next few months.

    However, an official timeline for these older devices has not been released. As for the Mate 40 series, Huawei is contemplating an update to HarmonyOS NEXT, which is an entirely different system not based on Android code.

    Recently, the company delivered a new software patch to the Mate 40, likely to prepare it for a future operating system upgrade.

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  • Emergency Patch Released for New Microsoft SharePoint Exploit

    Emergency Patch Released for New Microsoft SharePoint Exploit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft issued an urgent security update for SharePoint to fix severe vulnerabilities “CVE-2025-53770” and “CVE-2025-53771” related to ToolShell attacks.
    2. No updates are currently available for SharePoint 2016, but Microsoft is working on a solution; administrators should apply specific updates for SharePoint 2019 and Subscription Edition.
    3. The vulnerabilities allow remote code execution on servers without authentication, with “CVE-2025-53770” scoring 9.8 on the CVSS v3 scale and currently being exploited.
    4. Attackers are targeting internet-connected SharePoint servers, with links to ransomware groups “Silk Typhoon” and “Storm-0506.”
    5. Recommendations include enabling Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) and Microsoft Defender AV on SharePoint servers, or disconnecting affected servers from the network if AMSI cannot be activated.


    Microsoft has issued an urgent security update to address the “ToolShell” attacks impacting services globally. The updates for Microsoft SharePoint Subscription Edition and SharePoint 2019 resolve two severe security vulnerabilities labeled as “CVE-2025-53770” and “CVE-2025-53771”.

    SharePoint 2016 Status

    At this moment, there are no updates available for SharePoint 2016; however, Microsoft has stated that they are actively working on this issue. The company has suggested that administrators apply the “KB5002754 update” for SharePoint 2019 and the “KB5002768 update” for SharePoint Subscription Edition.

    Vulnerabilities and Exploits

    These security issues allow the remote execution of arbitrary code on servers without any form of authentication. The “CVE-2025-53770” vulnerability carries a CVSS v3 score of 9.8 and is currently being exploited in real-world situations.

    The attackers focus on internet-connected SharePoint servers, with at least two incidents linked to the ransomware groups “Silk Typhoon” and “Storm-0506”, which are recognized for targeting enterprise-level servers.

    Impact and Recommendations

    This vulnerability permits attackers to steal access keys and impersonate users, even after a server is restarted or patched. So far, the cloud versions of SharePoint appear not to be affected by these attacks.

    Security analysts at Eye Security first identified these vulnerabilities on July 18th. The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released a recommendation to activate Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) and Microsoft Defender AV on all SharePoint servers.

    If enabling AMSI is not possible, they recommend disconnecting the affected servers from the network immediately until a resolution is found.

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  • Microsoft Stops Technical Support for Defense Cloud in China

    Microsoft Stops Technical Support for Defense Cloud in China

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will no longer allow Chinese employees to assist with technical support for Pentagon cloud projects following an investigation.
    2. The company is enhancing its security measures in partnership with national security partners.
    3. The “escort model” involved U.S. citizens supervising foreign engineers, raising concerns about their ability to detect harmful code.
    4. Senator Tom Cotton has requested information on contractors using Chinese workers, highlighting the threat of China’s cyber capabilities.
    5. Security experts warn of significant risks associated with foreign contractors accessing classified infrastructure, urging the Pentagon to conduct thorough audits.


    Microsoft has decided to stop allowing its Chinese employees to assist with technical support on cloud projects for the Defense Department. This move comes after an investigation by ProPublica that uncovered the company’s use of engineers from China, who were supervised by U.S. “digital escorts,” to maintain sensitive systems for the Pentagon.

    Changes in Technical Support

    Frank Shaw, the chief communications officer, announced on X that Microsoft had “made changes … to assure that no China‑based engineering teams are providing technical assistance” to the Pentagon. He also mentioned that the company would continue to update its security measures in collaboration with national security partners.

    Details of the Escort Model

    ProPublica’s investigation elaborated on the escort model. One escort shared that U.S. citizens with security clearances monitored the work of foreign engineers, yet they often did not possess the technical knowledge needed to identify harmful code. Many of these monitors earned just above the minimum wage while overseeing colleagues who had much stronger coding abilities.

    Senator Tom Cotton requested Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to provide a list of contractors that employed Chinese workers, along with training records related to the escort program. He cautioned that China’s cyber capabilities are one of the most significant threats to the United States. In response, Hegseth ordered a two-week review of all cloud contracts and stated, “China will no longer have any involvement whatsoever in our cloud services, effective immediately.”

    Concerns Over Security

    Experts on security pointed out that, even without clear proof of espionage, allowing foreign contractors access to classified infrastructure presents a significant risk. They urged the Pentagon to audit every system that the foreign teams could reach, emphasizing that a single missed backdoor could compromise an otherwise secure network.

    The review by the Pentagon is expected to wrap up in early August. The results will help decide if additional restrictions or more comprehensive contractor reforms are necessary to safeguard military operations in the cloud.

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