Category: Software

  • WhatsApp Encryption Lawsuit: Employees Can Access User Data Easily

    WhatsApp Encryption Lawsuit: Employees Can Access User Data Easily

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta’s reputation regarding privacy is questionable, despite WhatsApp’s claims of end-to-end encryption.
    2. Whistleblowers allege that WhatsApp’s messaging data is not fully encrypted and that Meta engineers can easily access it.
    3. Access to encrypted communications is reportedly granted to Meta employees with minimal scrutiny through a simple internal request system.
    4. The lawsuit lacks technical evidence but raises serious concerns about WhatsApp’s privacy practices.
    5. Meta has dismissed the lawsuit as “absurd” and “categorically false,” while WhatsApp’s security has faced criticism in the past.

    When discussing privacy, it’s fair to say that Meta isn’t viewed as one of the most reliable companies. WhatsApp, which is a part of Meta, promotes itself as a secure messaging platform due to its end-to-end encryption policy. This feature is supposed to prevent any unauthorized access to user data, even by Meta itself. However, a new lawsuit suggests otherwise.

    Whistleblower Claims

    The lawsuit references allegations made by a group of “whistleblowers.” It suggests that WhatsApp’s messaging data isn’t actually encrypted end-to-end as claimed. Moreover, it alleges that Meta engineers can access this data quite easily with just a simple request. Even more concerning, the lawsuit states that these engineers frequently access customer data “without any scrutiny.”

    “As explained by the whistleblowers, WhatsApp and Meta retain and have unlimited access to WhatsApp’s encrypted communications. The process for Meta employees to obtain this access is remarkably straightforward. An employee just needs to submit a “task” (which is essentially a request through Meta’s internal system) to a Meta engineer, explaining that they require access to WhatsApp messages for their job. In response, the Meta engineering team often grants this access without any serious review.”

    Lack of Evidence

    Interestingly, the lawsuit does not provide any technical proof to support its assertions. However, the fact that the whistleblowers have chosen to file a lawsuit suggests there may be some truth to these alarming claims. If this is accurate, it could be a significant setback for WhatsApp, especially as privacy is increasingly a top concern for consumers today.

    Meta has responded to the lawsuit, labeling it as “absurd” and “categorically false” in a statement to PCMag.

    Ongoing Concerns

    WhatsApp’s privacy and security measures have been criticized several times in the past. Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, claimed that various vulnerabilities in WhatsApp’s security were uncovered during an investigation, but he did not provide any further evidence to substantiate his allegations.

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  • Samsung Launches 13-Inch EM13DX Color E-Paper Display for Retail

    Samsung Launches 13-Inch EM13DX Color E-Paper Display for Retail

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has launched the 13.3-inch EM13DX color e-paper display for retail, aiming to replace printed signs with a sustainable option.
    2. The display uses a resolution of 1,200 x 1,600 pixels and does not require a backlight, making it energy efficient.
    3. It features a 4,600 mAh battery, consuming no power when displaying a static image.
    4. Users can create and update images via the Samsung E-Paper app on Android and Apple devices.
    5. For managing multiple displays, the cloud-based Samsung VXT app allows easy updates across various stores.

    Samsung has introduced the new 13.3-inch EM13DX color e-paper display designed for retail use, aiming to replace traditional printed signs with a more sustainable option. This passive display utilizes Samsung’s sophisticated color imaging algorithm to deliver images that resemble paper when viewed in natural light. Notably, the device does not feature a backlight or any form of internal lighting.

    Specifications and Features

    The EM13DX boasts a screen resolution of 1,200 x 1,600 pixels, encased in a frame that is 17.9 mm (0.70 in.) thick and has a weight of 0.9 kg (1.98 lbs.). It is powered by a 4,600 mAh battery, which is engaged during image changes; however, when displaying a static image, the unit uses no power at all, making it very energy efficient.

    App and Connectivity

    To create and update the images on the EM13DX, users can download the Samsung E-Paper app available for both Android and Apple devices. Additionally, for users managing multiple displays, the cloud-based Samsung VXT app allows for easy updates across various stores, streamlining the process for retail signage.

    Pricing and availability details have yet to be revealed to the public, but businesses interested in this innovative product can reach out to their Samsung representatives for more information and quotes.

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  • Google Aluminium OS Leak: Android Alternative to Windows & macOS

    Google Aluminium OS Leak: Android Alternative to Windows & macOS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aluminium OS, codenamed “ALOS,” is Google’s new desktop version of Android, built on Android 16.
    2. The operating system features an optimized interface for larger screens, including a taller taskbar and a new menu bar displaying battery and WiFi status.
    3. Users can manage windows similar to Chrome OS, with options to minimize, maximize, and close apps easily.
    4. Aluminium OS allows flexible window positioning and resizing, enhancing user experience on Chromebooks.
    5. While the release date is unclear, internal testing suggests that Aluminium OS may soon replace Chrome OS on Chromebooks.

    Google’s Chromium Issue Tracker has shared fresh insights about Google’s Aluminium OS, but access to this part of the site has since been restricted. Fortunately, 9to5Google managed to capture and release the information and videos just in time. The report states that these videos were recorded on an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook running “ALOS,” which is the internal codename for Aluminium OS, the desktop version of Android developed by Google.

    Features and Specifications

    This operating system is built on Android 16, as shown by data in Google Chrome. Aluminium OS has been optimized for larger screens when compared to the desktop version of Android 16. It features a taller taskbar and a new menu bar that shows details like battery levels, WiFi status, and active background tasks such as screen recording.

    The interface of Google Chrome varies from the Android desktop edition, including an extensions button located beside the address bar. Window management is reminiscent of Chrome OS, where you find buttons for minimize, maximize, and close features in the top right corner, while the name of the app is displayed on the upper left.

    User Experience

    Users can position windows anywhere on the screen, as well as resize them or utilize a full-screen view. Although the launch date for Aluminium OS remains uncertain, Google’s internal testing of a working version based on Android 16 indicates that a release might be on the horizon. This new operating system is anticipated to take the place of Chrome OS on Chromebooks. It is yet to be seen if Google’s new software will attract more users away from Apple and Microsoft.

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  • Apple Surprises Users with Updates for Older iPhones and iPads

    Apple Surprises Users with Updates for Older iPhones and iPads

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple released updates for older iPhone and iPad models, including iOS 12.5.8, on January 26, 2026.
    2. The updates focus on renewing digital security certificates for devices over ten years old.
    3. Without the updates, essential services like iMessage and FaceTime may stop working in the future.
    4. The updates do not introduce new features or security fixes; they primarily ensure device connectivity.
    5. These actions coincide with the release of iOS 26.2.1 for newer devices.

    On January 26, 2026, Apple surprised many by rolling out software updates for older models of iPhone and iPad. The spotlight is on iOS 12.5.8, which was specially created for gadgets that are over ten years old. Take the iPhone 5s (launched in 2013, with support ending in 2019) or the 6th generation iPod Touch (introduced in 2015) as examples. What’s happening here?

    Reason for the Updates

    The main reason behind these updates is quite technical: it’s just a renewal of certificates. Digital security certificates are vital for secure communication between the device and Apple’s servers. If this patch isn’t installed, important services like iMessage and FaceTime, along with general device activation, might stop working in the future. By installing these system updates, users can ensure that these essential services keep working even after this point.

    Relation to Newer Systems

    These actions go hand-in-hand with the release of iOS 26.2.1, which is the latest operating system for iPhones and iPads. The updates for older devices don’t bring any security fixes; they are mainly aimed at keeping the devices connected. Therefore, no new features are introduced, and the absence of security updates makes safe internet browsing somewhat impossible.

    Apple Support

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  • Microsoft Releases Emergency Patch for Office Zero-Day Vulnerability

    Microsoft Releases Emergency Patch for Office Zero-Day Vulnerability

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft released a security update for a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2026-21509) in Microsoft Office, which is actively being exploited.
    2. The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass security measures in Office by using specially crafted files, requiring user interaction to activate.
    3. Office 2021 and later users receive automatic protection, while Office 2016 and 2019 users must install specific updates to be safeguarded.
    4. The vulnerability is included in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, requiring U.S. federal agencies to update by February 16, 2026.
    5. Recent Windows 11 updates have caused stability issues, complicating the update process for Microsoft systems.

    Microsoft has rolled out a special security update to tackle a zero-day vulnerability that is actively being exploited in Microsoft Office. This comes at a time when the January 2026 update cycle is already facing challenges, including significant stability problems with Windows 11 systems.

    Details on the Vulnerability

    This vulnerability, labeled CVE-2026-21509, is identified as a security feature bypass. According to the Microsoft Security Response Center, it stems from “dependence on untrusted input in a security choice within Microsoft Office.” If successfully exploited, an attacker could bypass Office’s security measures, specifically those meant to protect against vulnerable COM and OLE controls.

    Impact and Exploitation

    Microsoft assigned this flaw a CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 and confirmed that it is being exploited in real-world scenarios. Although the company has not shared specific technical details on the attacks, it mentioned that user interaction is necessary for exploitation. Attackers must persuade victims to open a specially designed Office file. Notably, the Preview Pane does not serve as an attack vector.

    Protection Measures

    For users running Office 2021 and later, protection is automatically implemented through a service-side adjustment, but they need to restart their Office applications for the changes to take effect. On the other hand, those using Office 2016 and Office 2019 won’t be safeguarded unless they install the latest security updates. Additionally, Microsoft has offered a registry-based fix that can be instantly applied on affected systems to prevent exploitation until a patch is available.

    The vulnerability has been listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. This catalog mandates that U.S. federal agencies must install the updates by February 16, 2026.

    Ongoing Stability Issues

    Earlier this month, the Windows 11 security update KB5074109 was associated with widespread stability problems and reports of UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME errors on certain systems, highlighting the delicate nature of recent updates for Windows and Office.

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  • New Android 17 Design Revealed in Leaked Screenshots

    New Android 17 Design Revealed in Leaked Screenshots

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 17 features a new transparent design aesthetic, similar to Apple’s iOS 26 “Liquid Glass” style.
    2. The volume control panel and shutdown menu will adopt a see-through backdrop for better readability.
    3. Users can customize transparent sections with their chosen accent color.
    4. Screen recording will include a floating window for settings and a recording timer in the status bar.
    5. Users can lock app icons by pressing and holding them, with some icons receiving a new design.

    After the recent leaks about Android 17’s new design, Android Authority and 9to5Google have managed to get a hold of several screenshots from the leaker @romashka, which are said to display an early beta version of Android 17. Much like Apple’s iOS 26 with its “Liquid Glass” style, Google appears to be shifting towards a more transparent aesthetic in its upcoming software.

    Notable Design Changes

    This fresh design method is quite evident in the volume control panel. Unlike the previous solid background, the new interface features a slightly see-through backdrop, with elements behind it being more blurred than seen on Apple devices. This change aims to enhance the readability of the information. Users can personalize these transparent sections with the accent color they choose.

    The volume slider and the shutdown menu for the phone will also adopt this transparent design. Following Android 16’s introduction of transparency in areas like Quick Settings, it seems Google is planning to extend this visual style to additional segments of the Android 17 operating system.

    Updates to Screen Recording

    In addition, Google is making changes to the screen recording feature. With Android 17, users will be able to modify settings through a floating window, while a recording timer will be visible in the status bar. By pressing and holding an app icon, users can also lock that particular app in Android 17. Some app icons are set to receive a new look as well. Although not much information is available about the new features of Android 17, mobile gamers can likely anticipate various enhancements.

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  • Bumpy TikTok Handover Leaves US Cut Off from Global Market

    Bumpy TikTok Handover Leaves US Cut Off from Global Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. TikTok’s US operations transitioned to TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC on January 23, 2026, but faced significant issues post-handover.
    2. A new privacy policy requires US users to agree to expanded data collection, including exact location tracking and user activities beyond the app.
    3. Technical difficulties arose after the transition, with users experiencing login issues and delays in video uploads, attributed to a data center power outage.
    4. The new management promises to maintain interoperability for US users while retraining the algorithm with local data to mitigate security concerns.
    5. There is uncertainty about the app’s appeal after replacing the original ByteDance algorithm with an American alternative.

    The transfer of TikTok’s US operations to the newly formed TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC occurred on Friday, January 23, 2026, signaling a significant moment for the short video platform. Despite the involvement of partners like Oracle, Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi’s MGX, the transition has not gone as planned. While President Donald Trump hails the arrangement as a victory, numerous media sources in the US are highlighting serious technical glitches alongside backlash against the updated terms of service.

    Privacy Policy Changes

    According to The New York Times, users in the US will now be required to agree to a modified privacy policy upon their first login. This new policy allows the app to gather not only approximate locations but also exact locations of users, given the necessary permissions. Additionally, the scope of data collection for targeted ads has greatly increased, incorporating user activities beyond the TikTok app itself. Future interactions with generative AI will also be recorded and analyzed systematically.

    Technical Difficulties After Handover

    The first weekend following this ownership transition saw a host of technical challenges. Reports from The Verge noted that users faced difficulties logging in and uploading their videos. Many users found their clips stuck in a review process for extended periods, while users outside the US did not encounter similar issues. TikTok USDS attributed these complications to a power outage at a data center in the US, though rumors are circulating online about potential censorship linked to ongoing protests in Minneapolis.

    Promises of Interoperability

    One of the main commitments from the new management is to maintain interoperability, allowing US users to access global content. However, the algorithm for US users will undergo a complete retraining using local data to address security worries regarding Chinese influence. It remains uncertain whether the app will keep its distinctive appeal once the original ByteDance algorithm is replaced with an American alternative.

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  • WhatsApp Could Introduce Paid Subscription for Ad-Free Experience

    WhatsApp Could Introduce Paid Subscription for Ad-Free Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. WhatsApp is preparing to launch a paid subscription service to eliminate ads, found in the latest beta version.
    2. The platform has been funded mainly by its parent company, Meta, and is currently showing ads in status updates and channels.
    3. Users may have the option to pay a monthly fee of €4 to access an ad-free experience while keeping essential features free.
    4. The subscription service targets users who want a seamless experience without distractions from ads or channel suggestions.
    5. The timeline for the public release of this paid service is currently unclear.

    The messaging platform WhatsApp seems to be getting ready to launch a paid subscription service that will eliminate ads. A recent report from WABetaInfo revealed that code hints related to this feature have been found in the latest WhatsApp beta for Android, version 2.26.3.9. This indicates that users might soon have the choice between a free version with ads and a paid, ad-free alternative.

    Financing Model Changes

    Up to now, WhatsApp has mainly been funded through its connection with its parent company, Meta. Recently, some users have started seeing advertisements; however, these ads currently do not show up in private conversations and are restricted to status updates and channels located in the updates section. Meta claims these ads are not personalized or targeted, meaning that a user discussing their pet cat won’t receive ads for cat food. On their business site, Meta is already advertising the potential to reach over 1.5 billion people with these ads.

    Subscription Details

    For those who prefer not to see ads, there may be an option to pay a monthly fee of €4. The essential features of WhatsApp, including messaging and calling, will likely remain free for all users. As it stands, ads will still appear in status updates, and users may still encounter channel suggestions occasionally. This could prove to be quite distracting for many individuals.

    Target Audience

    The subscription service appears to target users who appreciate a seamless experience while checking status updates or navigating their channels. It is also anticipated that the paid service will remove the previously mentioned channel suggestions. A screenshot indicates a monthly cost of €4, although it’s possible this is just a temporary figure. It remains uncertain when or if this new WhatsApp update will be available to the general public.

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  • Windows 11 KB5074109 Update Causing Boot Failures

    Windows 11 KB5074109 Update Causing Boot Failures

    Key Takeaways

    1. Boot Failure Issue: The January 2026 Windows 11 security update KB5074109 has caused some computers to experience UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME errors, leading to complete boot failures.

    2. Limited Reports: The problem appears to affect a small percentage of devices running Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, as noted in community reports.

    3. Microsoft Investigation: Microsoft is investigating these boot issues but has not identified the exact cause or provided a hotfix yet.

    4. Recovery Recommendations: Users facing boot problems are advised to use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or external media to repair or revert their systems.

    5. Caution Advised: Users whose systems are functioning normally should remain calm, but system administrators may be more cautious with updates until a reliable solution is provided by Microsoft.

    Microsoft’s January 2026 Windows 11 security update KB5074109 has been associated with a significant problem beyond just crashes and application malfunctions: some computers are experiencing complete boot failures, displaying a UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME blue screen.

    Limited Reports of Boot Failures

    As noted in Microsoft’s internal status documents, which have been compiled by community sources like AskWoody, along with recent findings from BleepingComputer and Windows Central, there are “limited number of reports” indicating that Windows 11 devices running on version 24H2 and 25H2 encounter a UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME error after applying the January 13 security updates related to KB5074109.

    In these instances, the computers do not reach the login page, instead getting stuck in a loop that leads to a BSOD. This situation leaves users needing to recover their systems through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or by using external media.

    Ongoing Investigation by Microsoft

    Microsoft is currently looking into these boot issues and has stated that they appear to only impact a small percentage of devices. However, the company has not yet identified the precise cause of the UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME problem nor released a specific hotfix. Their public health pages primarily address issues like Remote Desktop failures, black screens, and crashes of cloud applications that are linked to KB5074109 and the January out-of-band updates.

    For now, Microsoft recommends that users facing the UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME issue follow the same steps as for other boot problems: utilize WinRE and standard recovery methods to either repair or revert the system. This involves booting from either the recovery environment or installation media, trying to repair the file system, and, when feasible, uninstalling the January security update before Windows starts.

    No Need for Alarm

    For those whose computers are still functioning properly after the KB5074109 update, there’s no reason to panic. However, this new stop-code problem highlights the vulnerability of the January Windows 11 update process. With emergency hotfixes, rollback issues, and now complete boot failures, many system administrators will approach KB5074109 with heightened caution until Microsoft provides a fully reliable cumulative update.

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  • Android 17 Features Transparent Design with Apple Liquid Glass

    Android 17 Features Transparent Design with Apple Liquid Glass

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android 17 will feature a “blur” appearance with transparent overlays, replacing solid-color backgrounds.
    2. The design aims to enhance readability by softening visuals and allowing better visibility of background apps.
    3. The focus of Android 17 is more on aesthetics rather than significant changes to core functionalities.
    4. The OS will include design elements influenced by the Apple iPhone, such as differentiated notifications based on swipe direction.
    5. Major updates for gaming experiences are expected, with the rollout anticipated to start in June.

    According to the most recent details from 9to5Google, which seem to come from an internal beta of Android 17, the new operating system will have a “blur” appearance. Google is reportedly planning to swap out solid-color backgrounds across the system for transparent overlays that will soften the visuals behind them. This design choice closely resembles the “Liquid Glass” look of the Apple iPhone 17, though it appears that Google might not adopt the same level of style as Apple.

    Enhancements for Readability

    Google might enhance clarity by blurring objects a bit more or darkening them slightly. The idea behind the transparency is to make navigating the OS simpler, allowing users to view which app is running in the background even when the quick settings menu is visible. This design approach is expected to be applied to various components of the operating system, including the volume controls and battery indicators. These components will continue to be influenced by the user’s selected accent color.

    Focus on Aesthetics

    As per 9to5Google, the emphasis of the new OS appears to be on looks rather than making substantial changes to the basic functionalities. Earlier reports have hinted that Google is also taking cues from the Apple iPhone in other aspects, like differentiating notifications and quick settings based on whether the user swipes down from the left or right side of the screen. Additionally, Android 17 is likely to see major updates aimed at improving gaming experiences. The update is expected to roll out sometime starting in June.

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