Category: Software

  • 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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  • FCC to Block Chinese Telecom Gear in Submarine Cables

    FCC to Block Chinese Telecom Gear in Submarine Cables

    Key Takeaways

    1. The FCC is voting on new regulations to protect undersea communication cables from foreign threats, especially from China.
    2. The proposal includes incentives for secure suppliers and penalties for high-risk technology, with stricter security standards for license applications.
    3. Recent incidents of cable sabotage highlight the vulnerabilities of undersea cables, which are crucial for global internet traffic.
    4. There is growing distrust in Chinese telecom equipment, with previous bans affecting U.S. terrestrial networks and challenges in avoiding Chinese suppliers.
    5. The regulations aim to reform the licensing process and may include mandatory cybersecurity standards and limits on equipment from banned vendors.

    The Federal Communications Commission is gearing up to cast a vote on new regulations aimed at protecting the United States’ undersea communication cables from foreign meddling while speeding up local repair efforts and expanding AI-related infrastructure. Chair Brendan Carr described the initiative as a necessary reaction to “foreign adversary ownership, access, and cyber and physical threats,” with China being mentioned as the main worry.

    Proposal Details

    The plan merges incentives for reliable suppliers with penalties for high-risk technology. License applications that fulfill strict security standards would be exempt from the lengthy Team Telecom review process. On the contrary, cables utilizing equipment from companies already labeled as national-security risks—like Huawei, ZTE, China Telecom, and China Mobile—would have a presumption of denial, alongside new cybersecurity and physical-security mandates, and restrictions on capacity-leasing deals.

    Recent Incidents

    In late 2024, two fiber-optic cables in the Baltic Sea were cut, an act that investigators suspect was intentional sabotage by a cargo ship. In 2023, Taiwan reported that two Chinese vessels severed the sole cables serving the Matsu Islands, while suspected Houthi attacks interrupted three lines in the Red Sea early last year. These events underscore what Carr referred to as the “unsung heroes of global communications”: over 400 undersea cables that facilitate nearly 99 percent of international internet traffic.

    Growing Distrust

    Washington has been increasingly wary of Chinese telecom equipment for several years. In 2019, Huawei and ZTE devices were prohibited from US terrestrial networks, but the Pentagon observed in 2024 that completely avoiding the world’s largest telecom supplier continues to be a challenge. Similar issues are expected for subsea systems, where Chinese firms have already established a presence, and the supply chain is global.

    If the FCC’s regulations are put into place, they would revamp a licensing framework that has already halted four proposed links to Hong Kong since 2020. The agency is also planning to gather public feedback on additional measures, such as mandatory cybersecurity standards and stricter limits on equipment from banned vendors. The vote is anticipated during the commission’s upcoming open meeting.

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  • iOS 26 for iPhone Fold to Introduce New Depth Pro Feature

    iOS 26 for iPhone Fold to Introduce New Depth Pro Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26 is expected to introduce significant changes to iPhone software beyond just a new name.
    2. A new feature called Depth Pro may allow users to turn 2D images into 3D wallpapers using advanced technology.
    3. Depth Pro reportedly isolates the main subject of an image to create dynamic depth-of-field effects quickly.
    4. The feature may stem from technology used in Spatial Video and Photo tools for the Vision Pro device.
    5. Depth Pro could be exclusive to the upcoming iPhone Fold, anticipated to launch in 2026.

    iOS 26 is anticipated to bring a major change to iPhone software, going beyond just a new name.

    New Feature on the Horizon

    Rumors suggest the introduction of a feature called Depth Pro, which is designed to transform 2D images into 3D wallpapers. While this may not sound very exciting at first glance, it is reportedly the result of advanced research by Apple, capable of isolating the main subject of an image to create “dynamic” depth-of-field effects in just about 0.3 seconds.

    Cutting-Edge Technology

    The information, leaked by the Weibo account Fixed Focus Digital (notably not by Jon Prosser), indicates that this feature may come from the same technological advancements that produced the Spatial Video and Photo tools, which allow iPhone users to create content suitable for the Vision Pro device.

    Potential for iPhone Users

    If this info turns out to be true, potential buyers of the iPhone 18 series might be looking forward to customizing their own photos into unique 3D backgrounds for their home screens. However, there may be some letdown, as the feature is said to be exclusive to the upcoming iPhone Fold, which is predicted to launch sometime in 2026.

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  • Zen Browser Updates to Latest Firefox with Linux Performance Fixes

    Zen Browser Updates to Latest Firefox with Linux Performance Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Zen Browser is an open-source alternative to Firefox, designed for a calming and productive browsing experience.
    2. The latest Twilight 1.15t update offers bug fixes, improved performance, and enhanced usability features.
    3. The upgrade to Firefox 141.0 introduces support for the WebGPU API, improving GPU compatibility and efficiency.
    4. New customization features include an advanced color picker, refined UI animations, and better theming options.
    5. A new button style for Windows users integrates more seamlessly with the Microsoft desktop environment.

    If you’ve been searching for a fresh desktop browser for Windows, macOS, or Linux, you might have come across Zen Browser. This open-source version of Firefox aims to provide a “calmer” and visually pleasing web browsing experience with a focus on productivity. Its notable features include a compact UI mode that minimizes distractions, enhanced tab management that can be customized, and Zen Mods for extensive personalization.

    Latest Updates and Improvements

    The recent Twilight 1.15t update (consider it as an alpha version) has brought a host of bug fixes, new features, and improvements to Zen Browser, enhancing its overall performance, appearance, and user experience. One particularly annoying bug that has been resolved was causing the browser to disable Compact Mode when a browsing session was restored. However, the other updates have a more significant impact on usability.

    Firefox Base Upgrade

    A major change in this version of Zen is the upgrade to Firefox 141.0, the current beta version. This update introduces support for the WebGPU API on Windows, which should boost GPU compatibility, enhance efficiency, and allow for advanced GPU capabilities. Another key enhancement, thanks to the new Firefox foundation, is the improved performance and memory usage for Linux users. Now, they won’t have to restart Zen after updating the browser through a package manager.

    New Features for Customization

    Zen Twilight 1.15t also introduces a more advanced color picker, refines the glance UI and animations, and enhances the browser’s theming options, making it easier to set custom colors. In addition, the browser will now display these custom colors in a more accurate and vibrant way.

    Windows users will also appreciate a new button style that better integrates with the native look of Microsoft’s desktop environment.

    These features are presently exclusive to the Twilight 1.15t beta version, but they are expected to soon reach the main “beta” version of Zen (as the browser is still relatively new and lacks a stable release). You can find Zen Browser on GitHub.

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  • GENIUS Act Signed: Americans Can Store Wealth in Stablecoins

    GENIUS Act Signed: Americans Can Store Wealth in Stablecoins

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GENIUS Act aims to improve payment processing efficiency and reduce costs for merchants using stablecoins.
    2. Stablecoins are pegged to the US dollar, providing stability and reducing investment volatility compared to other cryptocurrencies.
    3. Stablecoin holders lack government-backed protections like FDIC insurance and are prioritized over other creditors during issuer bankruptcy.
    4. Issuers of stablecoins must comply with regulatory requirements, including monthly reporting and anti-money laundering laws, with oversight varying by issuance amount.
    5. The implementation of the GENIUS Act may take years due to its regulatory complexities and the need for authorized issuers.

    President Trump has officially enacted the GENIUS Act, which stands for Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act of 2025, also referred to as Senate Bill 1582.

    Benefits of Stablecoins

    Stablecoins have the potential to lower the costs of payment processing and make it faster for merchants to receive payments when customers buy products. The present credit and debit card processing system involves many middlemen, which delays quick payments and increases costs.

    Understanding Stablecoins

    The Act permits individuals to hold US dollars in stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency that is supported by real assets like the US dollar and short-term US Treasuries. These stablecoins are pegged at a 1-to-1 ratio to the dollar, giving holders confidence that their investments won’t suddenly lose value. In contrast, popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are not pegged to the dollar and can be very volatile.

    Important Considerations

    It is important to note that these stablecoins are not government-issued sovereign coins and lack any loss protection, such as FDIC bank insurance for situations like issuer failure. The Act ensures that stablecoin holders are prioritized over other creditors in the event of an issuer’s bankruptcy or collapse. A recent example of this was the Terra UST incident in 2022, which resulted in a $45 billion loss in just one week. Additionally, holders of stablecoins do not earn interest or yields on their savings, unlike what is available with cash in a bank savings account.

    Regulatory Requirements

    Issuers of stablecoins must provide monthly reports on their holdings and adhere to anti-money laundering regulations, including the Bank Secrecy Act. They are also restricted from misleading marketing practices. Depending on the amount issued, issuers will either be regulated by state or federal authorities. If they surpass $10 billion in issuance, they will be federally regulated unless they receive a state waiver. While banks and non-financial entities can issue stablecoins, only those who are authorized can do so after three years. The full rollout of the Act may take years due to its complexities.

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  • NASA Highlights Progress on Starlab Space Station, ISS Successor

    NASA Highlights Progress on Starlab Space Station, ISS Successor

    Key Takeaways

    1. NASA is transitioning from operating the ISS to becoming a customer for commercial space services in low Earth orbit.
    2. Starlab has met five key development and design goals, advancing towards a sustainable commercial space station.
    3. The Starlab project has passed initial design and safety evaluations, moving into detailed design and hardware development.
    4. A critical design review for Starlab is scheduled for later this year to assess readiness before construction.
    5. Construction of a full-scale model of Starlab has begun at NASA’s Johnson Space Center for testing crew training and operations.

    NASA is gearing up for a future that goes beyond the International Space Station (ISS) by promoting a marketplace for commercial activities in low Earth orbit. The agency recently revealed that Starlab, a space station developed commercially with its support, has achieved five important development and design goals.

    Transitioning to a Customer Role

    This achievement is a vital move in NASA’s plan to shift from operating a space station to being just one of many clients for orbital services. Currently, NASA is helping to design and develop various commercial space stations.

    Milestones in Development

    As we aim for the future of low Earth orbit, these achievements highlight Starlab’s commitment to creating a commercial space station that can sustain human life and push forward scientific research. — Angela Hart, who manages NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program.

    The Starlab project has successfully passed its initial design and safety evaluations, allowing it to move forward into the detailed design and hardware phase. The next significant milestone is a critical design review set for later this year, which will evaluate the design’s readiness before construction starts.

    Building the Future

    In a clear sign of advancement, the company has begun constructing a full-scale, high-fidelity model of the station. This model will be situated at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, where it will be utilized for “human-in-the-loop” testing to assess crew training, interior layout, and in-flight operations. The proposed design for Starlab includes a habitat and a service module that will be launched into orbit together in a single mission.

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  • Enhanced Microsoft Integration in Mercedes-Benz Vehicles

    Enhanced Microsoft Integration in Mercedes-Benz Vehicles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mercedes-Benz is partnering with Microsoft to enhance digital features in vehicles, targeting business users.
    2. The new MB.OS system will transform Mercedes cars into mobile offices, appealing to employees eligible for company vehicles.
    3. The updated Teams app allows users to join video meetings while driving, with features to reduce distractions and improve privacy.
    4. Microsoft Intune integration will enable secure access to work accounts, distinguishing between personal and business data.
    5. An API for Microsoft 365 Copilot will introduce generative AI features in vehicles, enhancing productivity for users on the go.

    Mercedes-Benz is enhancing its partnership with Microsoft to introduce fresh digital features to its automobiles. The goal is to create a comprehensive package aimed at businesses. The upcoming MB.OS operating system represents a significant leap toward transforming Mercedes vehicles into mobile offices. This could serve as a strong incentive for employees, especially those who qualify for company vehicles, to select a Mercedes in the future.

    Next-Gen Innovations

    Leading the charge is the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, which will debut with the fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system. This will be the first Mercedes model designed with advanced Microsoft integration specifically for business users.

    Enhanced Functionality

    A crucial feature of this updated integration is the revamped Teams app. Users will have the capability to join video meetings while driving, utilizing the in-car camera. Mercedes assures that this feature adheres to applicable legal standards. When the camera is turned on, any shared material and presentations will be automatically concealed from the driver to reduce distractions. Additionally, the camera can be turned off at any moment to guarantee greater privacy control.

    The renewed Teams app also brings a fresh dashboard that allows users to check their upcoming meetings directly in their cars. This makes it faster to access contacts, and the chat feature has been improved for on-the-go use. Integrated voice control aids in text entry, and users can join meetings directly from their calendars without needing extra devices.

    Cloud-Based Solutions

    Another significant advancement is the incorporation of Microsoft Intune into MB.OS. This cloud-based system enables users to log in securely with their work accounts and easily toggle between personal and work applications. Companies gain the advantage of a clear distinction between personal and business data, along with simplified management of access rights. IT managers can centrally establish and oversee security protocols for vehicles, just like they would for smartphones or laptops. This integration will support applications such as Notes and Calendar and is set to launch in both Europe and the US.

    Mercedes-Benz is also gearing up to introduce an API for Microsoft 365 Copilot, which will integrate features of generative AI into its cars. By using voice commands, drivers will be able to summarize emails, access customer details, or prepare for upcoming meetings. This integration is anticipated to be the first of its kind in a production vehicle. Mercedes asserts it will greatly improve productivity for users constantly on the go.

    Through these advancements, Mercedes-Benz aims to transform its vehicles into fully functional workspaces, extending the capabilities of both commercial and home offices. Whether this initiative will be successful remains uncertain, but it is evident that these features are crafted for sophisticated business clients who prioritize ease, connectivity, and security.

    “Our collaboration with Microsoft leads the industry, making it simpler for our clients to maintain productivity while traveling. By embedding the latest Microsoft workspace tools, like Microsoft Teams, into our new MB.OS operating system, we have designed an intuitive and safe user experience that enhances efficiency and cuts down distractions,” states Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group.

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  • Philips Hue Smart Light Update for Bulbs and Lamps Now Available

    Philips Hue Smart Light Update for Bulbs and Lamps Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue released software version 1.122.8/20250213 for smart bulbs and lamps in early 2025, following the previous update in October 2024.
    2. The 1.122.8 update includes minor bug fixes and stability improvements but lacks new features.
    3. Users have reported receiving the update, but Philips Hue has not made an official announcement about it.
    4. The update is automatically installed, and users can check their settings in the Philips Hue app to ensure automatic updates are enabled.
    5. Philips Hue also launched the MR16 transformer accessory and is rumored to be developing a new COB strip light product.

    Philips Hue has launched software version 1.122.8/20250213 for its range of smart bulbs, lamps, and lighting fixtures. This marks the first update of 2025, following the previous version 1.122.2/1.122.3 that was released in October 2024. That update introduced new lighting effects and enhanced Bluetooth stability.

    Update Reception

    Although many users have mentioned that they have received the 1.122.8/20250213 update, Philips Hue hasn’t made any official announcement regarding this on its Release Notes page. When Hueblog.com reached out for clarification, the company replied that the update consisted of minor bug fixes and improvements in stability but didn’t elaborate on specifics. This suggests that there are no additional features in this latest update.

    Automatic Installation

    As is customary with Philips Hue smart lighting products, software version 1.122.8/20250213 should be automatically installed. To verify if automatic updates are turned on, users can navigate to Settings > Software update > Automatic update in the Philips Hue app.

    Other News

    Recently, Philips Hue has also introduced the MR16 transformer accessory for its MR16 spotlight bulbs, along with ongoing developments related to the Philips Hue AI assistant. Furthermore, there are rumors circulating that the company is developing a new COB strip light product.

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