Category: Software

  • Philips Hue Launches Minor Update for Smart Home App

    Philips Hue Launches Minor Update for Smart Home App

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app version 5.46 has been released, focusing on bug fixes and stability improvements.
    2. The previous version 5.45.1 introduced support for new products like the Hue Play wall washer light and better integration with Amazon Alexa.
    3. No new features were added in version 5.46, leaving users uncertain about its benefits.
    4. The Philips Hue AI assistant is being rolled out in the UK, with a global rollout expected by the end of August 2025.
    5. The app version 5.46 is available for download on the Apple App Store and will be on the Google Play Store soon.

    The new Philips Hue app version 5.46 has been released. The prior update, version 5.45.1, was launched at the end of June 2025 and introduced support for new products, such as the Hue Play wall washer light (currently priced at $219.99 on Amazon) and enhanced integration with Amazon Alexa for homes that have multiple Hue Bridges.

    Update Details

    According to the change log for version 5.46 of the Philips Hue app, there are no new features included in this update. The release notes mention “various bug fixes and stability improvements.” Sadly, the company hasn’t shared more details, leaving users uncertain about how they will benefit from this update.

    UK Users News

    There is, however, some good news for users in the UK. A few weeks ago, it was announced that the new Philips Hue AI assistant is being rolled out for users in this region. This feature was initially available to users in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg at the beginning of June 2025, and it is set to be accessible to all users worldwide by the end of August. The Philips Hue app version 5.46 is already available for download on the Apple App Store and should be on the Google Play Store soon.

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  • Windows 11 25H2 Update Lets Users Uninstall Bloatware and Apps

    Windows 11 25H2 Update Lets Users Uninstall Bloatware and Apps

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bloatware Issue: Users of new Windows 11 devices often face excessive bloatware, complicating the removal of built-in Microsoft apps.

    2. 25H2 Update Testing: Insiders report that the upcoming Windows 11 25H2 update allows easier deletion of certain Microsoft apps, like Media Player and Notepad, through a new removal option.

    3. User Limitations: The update’s benefits are limited; it requires Group Policy Editor, unavailable in Windows 11 Home, and only EU users can remove the Edge browser due to legal restrictions.

    4. Update Benefits: The 25H2 update will be distributed as an enablement package, potentially improving installation times and user control over the operating system.

    5. Performance Claims: Microsoft has made claims about performance improvements in Windows 11, but the actual impact of bloatware removal on speed remains uncertain.

    A frequent issue raised by users of new prebuilt desktops or laptops is the excessive bloatware that comes with Windows 11. While getting rid of third-party applications is usually simple, dealing with Microsoft’s own apps can be trickier. The soon-to-be-released Windows 11 25H2 update might provide a solution, but there are some important considerations.

    Testing the Update

    Insiders who are trying out the Windows 11 update found that they can delete apps like Media Player, Notepad, and those related to Xbox. Typically, users have to use PowerShell, which isn’t the easiest tool to navigate. However, some computers will now have an option called Remove Default Microsoft Store Packages. Locating this shortcut may take some searching through the Windows Components > App Package Deployment menus.

    Limitations for Users

    Sadly, not every user will be able to take advantage of the 25H2 update. It requires the Group Policy Editor, which is not included in Windows 11 Home without additional steps. Even those who own Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions won’t have complete authority over the default apps. Thanks to the Digital Markets Act, only users in the EU can remove the Edge browser. These restrictions are challenges that third-party tools like Geek Uninstaller can help overcome.

    Potential Benefits of the Update

    Although many users may find it hard to remove unwanted apps, the Windows 11 update could bring other benefits. The update will be distributed as an enablement package, meaning that many changes are already set up and just need to be turned on. This could help with the long installation times that users have complained about with Windows 11 24H2. Released in October 2024, that major update also brought several issues, such as problems with AutoHDR and inconsistent network connectivity.

    Microsoft has recently made some debated statements about performance improvements in Windows 11. Even if removing the bloatware doesn’t enhance the speed of PCs, some users will at least gain greater control over the operating system.

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  • Garmin Update: New Focus Mode and Timer for High-End Smartwatches

    Garmin Update: New Focus Mode and Timer for High-End Smartwatches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin is developing new software for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, starting with Beta Version 17.11.
    2. The latest update, Beta Version 17.14, is a temporary build and indicates ongoing software development.
    3. The update includes three significant bug fixes compared to Beta Version 17.13.
    4. Fixes in Beta Version 17.14 address issues with the Focus Modes color selection, Timer Page functionality, and decimal precision on the Barometer watch face.
    5. Garmin continues to actively update its software, with no indication of concluding the v17.xx development phase soon.

    Garmin is currently progressing with its new software development phase for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). To provide a brief overview, the company initiated the v17.xx beta development just two weeks ago, starting with Beta Version 17.11.

    Latest Updates

    Now, they have reached their fourth update with the launch of Beta Version 17.14. Unlike previous updates that were filled with numerous changes, Garmin has opted for a different method this time. In this regard, Beta Version 17.14 acts more like a temporary build; there’s no sign that Garmin is wrapping up the v17.xx development anytime soon.

    Bug Fixes

    In a recent forum discussion, the company stated that Beta Version 17.14 brings three significant bug fixes compared to Beta Version 17.13. Firstly, the custom Focus Modes color selection page should function properly now. Additionally, Garmin has resolved an issue that led to the Timer Page closing unexpectedly when a timer was initiated. Finally, Beta Version 17.14 fixes a bug that affected decimal precision for complications on the Barometer watch face. The complete list of changes from System Software 15.32 to Beta Version 17.14 is as follows:

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  • “Secure WhatsApp Alternative Bitchat: Messages Without Internet”

    “Secure WhatsApp Alternative Bitchat: Messages Without Internet”

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bitchat is a new messaging app by Jack Dorsey that prioritizes user privacy and serves as an alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram.
    2. The app uses a decentralized Bluetooth mesh network for messaging, allowing communication without internet access and enhancing privacy.
    3. Messages are encrypted with AES-256-CGM, ensuring that only the intended recipient can read them, while intermediary devices cannot access the content.
    4. Bitchat does not require accounts or phone numbers, making it difficult to trace the sender even if messages are intercepted.
    5. A beta version of the app is currently being tested by 10,000 iPhone users, but its public release date is still unknown.

    The most recent endeavor of Twitter’s founder, Jack Dorsey, is called bitchat. This app serves as an alternative to popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram, aiming to enhance user privacy. While WhatsApp does offer end-to-end encryption for all direct messages, a potential EU-wide chat control, which could soon be approved by the European Commission, might enforce weaker encryption and allow for the monitoring of messages.

    Unique Messaging Method

    Bitchat operates differently by sending messages through a decentralized Bluetooth mesh network instead of the internet. This system allows messages to be sent to any other smartphone with the bitchat app within a range of 328 yards. Each phone then forwards the message to the next device until it reaches the intended recipient. Notably, these intermediary devices cannot access the content of the messages, as they are protected by AES-256-CGM encryption, ensuring only the recipient can decrypt the information.

    Dependable Communication

    The speed at which a message is delivered will likely vary based on the number of active bitchat users and the distance separating the sender from the recipient. However, utilizing Bluetooth for message transmission makes it nearly impossible to censor or block communications, even if a government decides to cut off home internet or cellular services.

    Features and Privacy

    This WhatsApp alternative includes standard messaging functionalities such as favorites, pings, and group chats. To enhance user privacy, bitchat does not require accounts, phone numbers, or any other persistent identifiers. Thus, even if someone were to intercept the messages, pinpointing the sender would be extremely difficult. Currently, a beta version of bitchat is being trialed by 10,000 iPhone users, but it remains uncertain when the app will become publicly available.

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  • TikTok Creating US-Only Version of the App: Report

    TikTok Creating US-Only Version of the App: Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. TikTok is developing a US-specific version of its app, called “M2,” in response to US legislation regarding foreign-controlled applications.
    2. American users will need to download this new version to continue using TikTok, with a transition period lasting until March 2026.
    3. The new app aims to comply with US legal standards while allowing ByteDance to retain control in other areas, particularly regarding algorithms.
    4. A law requires TikTok to divest its US operations by January 19, 2025, or face a ban, with previous delays from President Trump.
    5. The new app could facilitate a sale of TikTok’s American business without transferring the algorithm, potentially satisfying US regulations and keeping the platform operational.

    According to a fresh report from The Information, TikTok is working on a version of its app specifically for the US as it approaches a potential agreement with an American partner.

    Response to Legislation

    This move comes as a direct reaction to the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act.” Internally, this initiative is referred to as “M2” and is expected to launch in early September. Once it becomes available, American users will need to download this new version of the app to keep using TikTok, with a transition phase lasting until March 2026.

    Details of the New App

    The exact ways that this US-only version will be different are still unclear, but it’s assumed that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is trying to keep full control in other areas while complying with US legal standards. These standards involve restrictions on foreign ownership and governance of the platform’s algorithms.

    News about this new application comes after President Trump announced he has a buyer ready for TikTok, described as a group of “very wealthy people.” The suggested deal would allow a collection of non-Chinese investors, including Oracle, to take a majority share in TikTok’s American business, with ByteDance keeping a minority share.

    Legislative Timeline

    A law signed by President Biden mandates the platform to divest by January 19, 2025, or face a ban in the US. President Trump has delayed this required sale three times. Any agreement still requires approval from the Chinese authorities, who have firmly stated that TikTok’s algorithm cannot be sold along with the app.

    This new app might be a solution that enables a sale without granting full access to the algorithm, which could satisfy US regulations while detaching the American operations from the main app.

    Future Outlook

    While there are not enough details to predict exactly how everything will play out, there are several indicators that suggest a resolution is on the horizon that allows TikTok to remain available in the US.

    With President Trump indicating that a buying group is nearly approved and TikTok preparing a distinct US access point, which is set to launch around the same time the current executive order extension expires, it seems a deal is becoming more likely.

    If the new version can maintain the engaging aspects of the current algorithm, it could lead to a favorable outcome for everyone involved.

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  • IKEA Dirigera Hub Update Turns It into a Matter Controller

    IKEA Dirigera Hub Update Turns It into a Matter Controller

    Key Takeaways

    1. The IKEA Dirigera Hub now acts as a Matter controller, allowing integration with other Matter-certified smart home systems.
    2. The update introduces Thread version 1.4 and is currently in beta testing; users need the latest IKEA Home smart app to participate.
    3. Manual changes to smart lights will disable Adaptive Lighting, requiring users to manually reselect this option.
    4. User feedback on Reddit shows dissatisfaction with the changes to Adaptive Lighting.
    5. The update includes minor bug fixes and is being rolled out to users in stages, with no specific timeline for full availability.

    IKEA has launched a fresh update for the Dirigera Hub. Users on Reddit have reported that software version 2.805.6 introduces a significant new feature to the smart home hub, along with a few minor adjustments.

    New Features in Dirigera Hub

    The IKEA Dirigera Hub now functions as a Matter controller. Thanks to an update from late 2024, the product became a Matter bridge, enabling IKEA devices to work with other Matter-certified smart home systems. With this latest update, users can connect smart home devices from various brands to the IKEA hub. This feature is in beta testing at the moment, and the update brings Thread version 1.4 along with it. To participate in the beta, users need the most recent version of the IKEA Home smart app (Android: 1.47.0, iOS 1.51.0) and can access the feature through The Workshop.

    Changes to Smart Lighting

    The change log also mentions an adjustment for smart lights. After this update, if a user makes any manual changes to a smart light’s brightness or color, Adaptive Lighting will be completely turned off. In the past, Adaptive Lighting would automatically restart when the light was switched off and on again; now, users must manually reselect this option. Many users have voiced their dissatisfaction with this change on Reddit.

    Minor Fixes and Rollout

    Additionally, this update is said to include some minor bug fixes, although specific details haven’t been shared. IKEA has stated that software version 2.805.6 is being rolled out to Dirigera Hub users in stages. The company has not yet provided a timeline for when it will be available to all users worldwide.

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    IKEA Dirigera Hub Update Turns It into a Matter Controller
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  • Home Assistant 2025.7 Release Introduces New Ask Question Action

    Home Assistant 2025.7 Release Introduces New Ask Question Action

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of the “Ask Question” action to enhance the Assist voice assistant’s conversational abilities.
    2. Revamped Area card design for better integration with the Sections dashboard, providing compact and detailed views.
    3. New integration sub-entries to speed up setup for certain integrations with shared authentication details.
    4. Design updates to the integration page for improved user experience.
    5. New integrations added, including Altruist air quality sensor, PlayStation Network, and Tilt Pi brewing hydrometer.

    The Home Assistant 2025.7 version has been released. This update is part of the regular monthly schedule for this open-source smart home automation platform. Just to remind you, the previous 2025.6 version introduced a new Bluetooth connection graph.

    Conversational Improvements

    In the latest Home Assistant 2025.7, a new Ask Question action has been added, which enhances the Assist voice assistant’s conversational abilities. This allows Assist to ask you questions instead of just waiting for your input. For instance, in a YouTube video demonstration, the voice assistant informs the user about hot weather and suggests that they close the shutters.

    Redesigned Features

    Another notable change is the revamped Area card, which now works smoothly with the Sections dashboard. It mimics the Tile card design, providing both compact and detailed views for users. Additionally, there have been enhancements to the Areas dashboard, making it simpler to view and control important devices in every room of your home from a distance.

    Streamlined Integrations

    Integration sub-entries have been introduced, which speeds up the process of setting up integrations that share the same authentication details, like extra calendars or AI agents. Nevertheless, this feature is currently available only for a select few integrations: Anthropic, Google Generative AI, MQTT, Ollama, OpenAI Conversation, and Telegram Bot. Moreover, the integration page has received a design update as well.

    New Additions

    Home Assistant 2025.7 brings new integrations such as the Altruist air quality sensor, PlayStation Network, Vegetronix VegeHub, and the Tilt Pi wireless brewing hydrometer and thermometer (currently priced at $135 on Amazon). You can check the full release notes for Home Assistant 2025.7 on the official website of the company.

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  • Exchange Code Leak Suggests Intent to Evade Regulation

    Exchange Code Leak Suggests Intent to Evade Regulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nobitex, an Iranian cryptocurrency exchange, suffered a cyberattack leading to a loss of $90 million and later had its source code completely exposed.
    2. The source code revealed anti-surveillance features designed to evade detection by regulatory agencies, particularly U.S. entities like FinCEN.
    3. TRM Labs found that Nobitex’s modular framework allows for easy replication by illicit operators, raising concerns about its use in other sanctioned regions.
    4. The investigation highlighted significant security flaws and operational intentions of Nobitex, complicating regulatory oversight.
    5. The findings underscore the challenges regulators face in monitoring sophisticated cryptocurrency systems that employ advanced privacy measures.

    In the wake of a politically driven cyberattack that resulted in the loss of $90 million from its wallets, the Iranian cryptocurrency exchange Nobitex faced an even larger security incident — the complete public exposure of its source code. An examination by the blockchain analysis company TRM Labs uncovered that the platform was not only created for trading purposes but also as an advanced tool for functioning discreetly within the global financial framework.

    Custom Anti-Surveillance Features

    The source code indicated that Nobitex had been developed with a variety of tailor-made anti-surveillance features that were specifically intended to counteract the blockchain analysis tools utilized by regulatory bodies and compliance teams. Per a leaked internal privacy document, these features aimed to avoid detection by US agencies such as FinCEN by anonymizing transactions and hiding user identities.

    Key Findings from TRM Labs

    TRM Labs’ investigation concluded that the exchange’s modular framework provided a “plug-and-play” model that could be easily replicated by other illicit operators. This raised concerns about the potential for its architecture to be cloned in other sanctioned regions, increasing the overall risk associated with its design.

    TRM Labs’ findings provide a detailed insight into the security flaws and operational intentions behind Nobitex’s platform, highlighting the challenges faced by regulators in monitoring such sophisticated systems.

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  • Windows 12 Release Delayed by at Least One Year

    Windows 12 Release Delayed by at Least One Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 11 version 25H2 is set to launch in late 2025, with Insiders already testing initial builds.
    2. Security updates for Windows 11 Home and Pro will last 24 months post-launch, while Enterprise and Education editions will receive updates for 36 months.
    3. Users of Windows 10 can access an additional year of security updates with a simple method.
    4. The focus of the 25H2 update is on improving stability and quality, rather than introducing many new features.
    5. 25H2 is an “enablement update,” allowing for a quick installation process by activating existing features in version 24H2.

    Microsoft is getting ready to launch Windows 11 version 25H2, which is a major update for its operating system. Insiders can already try out the initial builds of this version, which is set to be widely available in the latter part of 2025. People using the earlier version, Windows 10, can access an additional year of security updates from Microsoft by employing a fairly simple method, which we will explain here.

    Update Details

    In a recent blog entry, Microsoft’s Jason Leznek shared insights about the upcoming update for Windows 11. He specified that security updates for both the Windows 11 Home and Pro editions will be assured for 24 months following the launch of 25H2, while the Enterprise and Education editions will receive updates for 36 months. Additional features will be rolled out over time after the update is released. This suggests that the company is currently concentrating on enhancing Windows 11, even though development on the next Windows version, likely Windows 12, is already in progress.

    Future Expectations

    As a result, users will need to be patient for a while longer before a new version of Windows arrives. Presently, it seems that private users might have to wait until October 2027, while businesses could be looking at October 2028 (assuming 25H2 launches at the end of Windows 10 support in mid-October 2025). There’s a good chance that Microsoft might push back this deadline again next year.

    Focus on Stability

    The main goal of this update is to enhance stability, improve quality, and resolve issues rather than roll out a multitude of new features. Windows 11 25H2 is anticipated to launch around the same time as the conclusion of support for Windows 10 in October 2025, facilitating a smooth transition for users to the newer operating system.

    25H2 is termed an “enablement update”, indicating that many of its new features are already embedded in the code of version 24H2 and can be activated with a minor update. This design aims to provide a particularly swift and efficient installation process that should not take longer than a typical monthly security update.

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  • Explore the Night Sky from Home with an Interactive Sky Map

    Explore the Night Sky from Home with an Interactive Sky Map

    Key Takeaways

    1. Researchers in the U.S. have created a detailed interactive map for exploring galaxies and stars from home.
    2. The concept of sky mapping dates back to the 2018 Gaia mission by the European Space Agency, which mapped billions of stars and asteroids.
    3. Caltech’s COSMOS-Web project has produced the largest interactive sky map to date, accessible to both scientists and amateurs.
    4. The map incorporates 1.5 TB of data from the James Webb Space Telescope, showcasing galaxies up to 13 billion light-years away.
    5. Users can easily navigate the map, similar to Google Earth, with filters available for a customized viewing experience.

    Observing the night sky filled with stars is something that many people around the globe love to do. However, this activity can become quite limited without the right tools like telescopes, binoculars, or astronomical glasses.

    Exciting Developments in Astronomy

    Luckily, there’s some great news! Researchers in the United States have created the most detailed interactive map that lets you explore galaxies and stars right from your home. This map also provides information about celestial objects that pique your interest, enabling you to expand your knowledge.

    A Brief History of Sky Mapping

    This type of map isn’t entirely new, as it has existed since 2018. Back then, the European Space Agency (ESA) launched a massive and intricate map during the Gaia mission. This map displayed the Milky Way, showcasing billions of stars, with some located 1.5 million kilometers away from our planet. Additionally, it included 14,000 asteroids that orbit our solar system.

    A New Frontier in Interactive Mapping

    Recently, under the COSMOS-Web project, Caltech in the United States has accomplished an impressive feat by producing the largest interactive sky map to date. This innovative tool is designed not just for scientists but also for amateurs and anyone curious about the universe.

    To create this remarkable resource, researchers utilized data from the James Webb Space Telescope, which is reshaping how we observe and understand the cosmos. A staggering 1.5 TB of data has been integrated into this map, resulting in a stunning visual experience. While it covers only 0.54 square degrees of the night sky, you can view hundreds of galaxies, some of which are an astonishing 13 billion light-years away, dating back to the universe’s beginnings.

    Using this map is as simple as navigating Google Earth or Google Maps. There are also filters available that let you show or hide different elements for a tailored experience.

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