Category: Software

  • “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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  • Top Productivity Tool for macOS Now Available on Windows 11

    Key Takeaways

    1. Raycast is a powerful productivity tool for macOS that is now being released for Windows 11 users in public preview.
    2. The Windows beta includes features like a file search launcher, clipboard history manager, and a natural language calculator.
    3. Raycast supports third-party extensions, but some features will not be available due to dependency on Apple-specific APIs.
    4. Future plans for Raycast on Windows include advanced AI search, cloud sync, and additional productivity tools.
    5. Windows users currently have alternatives like Flow Launcher and PowerToys Run, which are popular for similar functionalities.

    Raycast, known as a leading alternative to Spotlight for macOS, refers to itself as a “shortcut to everything.” It goes beyond just launching applications, allowing users to carry out various tasks without needing to switch between different apps. Additionally, it offers features like clipboard history and tools for managing windows.

    Windows Version Announcement

    Although Raycast has built a strong user base on macOS and has an app for iOS, Windows users have been left waiting for a version. This is about to change, as Raycast has now officially announced that it will be available for Windows 11 users shortly.

    Currently, Raycast for Windows is in a public preview, but access is limited to those who receive an invite. From what is available in the preview, it seems that the application utilizes Windows 11’s WinUI 3 Fluent design, giving it a native appearance.

    Features of the Windows Beta

    The beta version of Raycast for Windows includes many productivity-enhancing features that are present in the macOS version. For example, pressing Alt + Space opens a launcher where users can search for files and folders, with the option to filter results by file type. Once users have narrowed down their search, they can execute contextual actions on a file, like revealing its location in File Explorer or copying it.

    Moreover, the Windows beta comes with a built-in clipboard history manager and a calculator that understands natural language. Users can ask questions like “days until July 12,” “time in Vienna,” or “distance between Los Angeles and New York.” During the beta phase, users can also access the Quick AI feature for free, which employs GPT-4o mini to handle conversational queries and follow-up questions.

    Extension Support and Future Plans

    One of the standout features of Raycast is its compatibility with third-party extensions, including a variety of JavaScript-based add-ons for platforms like YouTube, Slack, and GIPHY. Although the Windows version will support most Raycast extensions, those that depend on Apple-specific features and APIs won’t be accessible on Windows.

    However, not all features are currently available in the beta. For instance, the Cloud Sync feature, which would allow users to sync preferences and extensions across devices, is not yet ready but is on the development roadmap. Additional features like more advanced AI-driven context-aware search, Raycast Notes, snippet expansion, calendar integration, expanded extension support, scripting and developer tools, and window management capabilities are also planned for the future.

    At the moment, there is no direct download link for the Raycast Windows beta. Users interested in trying it out can join a waitlist for an invite. Those who are already part of the beta can share invites with three additional users, thereby extending the testing group.

    Existing Alternatives for Windows Users

    That being said, Windows users have a number of Spotlight alternatives to choose from, with Flow Launcher and PowerToys Run being the most widely used. PowerToys recently introduced a new Command Palette tool, which currently lacks some features found in Run but is expected to eventually replace it with improved functionality.

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    Top Productivity Tool for macOS Now Available on Windows 11
  • Microsoft: Windows 11 Claims 2.3x Speed Boost Over Windows 10

    Microsoft: Windows 11 Claims 2.3x Speed Boost Over Windows 10

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upgrading to Windows 11 offers a more secure operating system and a cleaner user interface, as well as better compatibility with AI-driven applications.
    2. Microsoft claims that Windows 11 PCs can be up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs, but this is based on a potentially misleading benchmark comparing different Intel processor generations.
    3. Actual performance may vary depending on device settings, with many experts suggesting that a fairer comparison involves similar hardware for both operating systems.
    4. Users may face significant costs when upgrading to Windows 11, especially if their current hardware does not meet the new system requirements.
    5. Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, extending support for Windows 10 until October 14, 2025, to help users transition.

    Microsoft has recently shared a blog post that talks about the advantages of upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The company claims that users will have a more secure operating system with a cleaner user interface and better compatibility with applications driven by AI. However, the claim that “Windows 11 PCs are up to 2.3x faster than Windows 10 PCs” is what has caught the most attention. Critics quickly pointed out that this statement is based on a possibly misleading benchmark.

    Benchmark Details

    The article mentions a Geekbench 6 multi-core test in the footnotes. Yet, the comparison is made between different Intel processor generations. Windows 10 PCs equipped with 6th, 8th, and 10th-generation CPUs are compared to Windows 11 systems that use 12th and 13th-generation processors. As noted by PC Gamer, some of these CPUs are up to nine years older than Intel’s newest offerings.

    Performance Variability

    The benchmark from December 2024 adds a note that actual performance can differ based on the device and its settings. Still, many observers feel that a fairer comparison would involve Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs with the same hardware. Unfortunately for Microsoft, most comparisons show that the performance boost with the new operating system is quite small.

    Microsoft may be getting anxious to persuade users who have not yet upgraded to Windows 10. Gamers would be eager for the promise of 2.3x better performance, but they are smart enough to recognize that the new OS isn’t as groundbreaking as it sounds. Furthermore, these users have pointed out that the cumbersome nature of Windows 11 focuses on features that do not necessarily enhance frame rates.

    Upgrade Costs

    For those who do not frequently upgrade their PC’s hardware, the transition also brings along considerable costs. Customers who have a legitimate Windows 10 license can move to Windows 11 without any extra charges. However, the requirements for Windows 11 exclude older processors that lack support for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Consequently, some users find themselves needing to buy new desktops or laptops that come with Windows 11 already installed.

    Microsoft has recently rolled out the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This initiative will prolong support for Windows 10 for an additional year. Otherwise, security updates will cease on October 14, 2025, which could leave PCs exposed to malware threats.

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    Microsoft: Windows 11 Claims 2.3x Speed Boost Over Windows 10

     

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  • Stellantis Recalls 8,400 Dodge Chargers for Excessive Quietness

    Stellantis Recalls 8,400 Dodge Chargers for Excessive Quietness

    Key Takeaways

    1. A recall for certain Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles is due to a software glitch in the amplifier, which may prevent the cars from making outside sounds, increasing accident risks.
    2. Affected Charger owners will receive notifications by July 10, 2025, and dealers will provide a free software update to fix the issue.
    3. Stellantis has a pattern of safety recalls, including the Dodge Hornet SUVs for faulty rearview cameras and over 300,000 Ram pickups for malfunctioning safety features.
    4. Stellantis also announced a major recall affecting over 250,000 Pacifica and Voyager models due to improperly sealed side curtain airbags, which can increase injury risks in accidents.
    5. The recall trend extends beyond Stellantis, with Honda recalling over 259,000 vehicles for unsecured brake pedal components and Ford advising against driving 2,345 trucks due to missing brake booster parts.

    The recall for certain Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles is prompted by a software glitch in the amplifier. This problem could stop the cars from making outside sounds, which is important for alerting pedestrians and other vehicles of their presence. Such a situation could lead to more accidents and injuries, particularly for those on foot and drivers who might not see the car coming. Owners of the affected Charger models should receive notifications by July 10, 2025, and dealers will provide a free software update to fix the amplifier issue.

    Recent Safety Oversight

    This recall is part of a broader pattern of safety evaluations by Stellantis. Back in May 2025, Dodge Hornet SUVs had to be recalled because their rearview cameras failed to show images when the vehicles were in reverse. In December 2024, over 300,000 Ram pickups were recalled due to malfunctioning safety features that could put drivers at risk.

    Another Major Recall

    In an ongoing trend within the auto industry, Stellantis announced on June 28th a significant recall involving over 250,000 vehicles in the U.S. Specifically, this affects 250,651 Pacifica and Voyager models from 2022 to 2025. The issue involves side curtain airbags that are not sealed properly. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated that airbags that don’t maintain proper pressure can raise the chance of ejection and injury in an accident. Dealers will inspect these airbags and replace them at no cost.

    Industry-Wide Concerns

    The recall wave isn’t just limited to Stellantis. Recently, Honda recalled 259,033 SUVs and sedans (including Acura and Honda models) because a brake pedal pivot pin wasn’t secured correctly, causing the pedal to move unexpectedly. Additionally, Ford issued a “Do Not Drive” notice for 2,345 trucks this month after it was found that retaining springs for the brake booster pushrod were missing, which could result in a sudden brake failure.

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