Categoria: Apps

  • Bill bans apps from eavesdropping on conversations, possibly marking the end of espionage.

    Bill bans apps from eavesdropping on conversations, possibly marking the end of espionage.

    The Chamber of Deputies is currently reviewing Bill 2867/23, which seeks to prevent mobile applications from capturing data using the microphone or camera when a call ends or when the device is inactive. The bill, proposed by Mr. Fábio Teruel (MDB-SP), aims to enhance user privacy.

    The Internet Civil Framework currently mandates that users must provide explicit consent for the collection, utilization, storage, and handling of their personal data. The new proposal emphasizes that this consent should be restricted to the standard usage timeframe of the app, ceasing data collection once the calls end or when the device is inactive.

    Punishment is a consequence for wrongdoing.

    Failure to follow this rule will result in the person in charge of the application facing penalties outlined in the Consumer Protection Code, which may include fines and the suspension of product or service provision. Additionally, the project modifies the Penal Code to penalize the unauthorized collection, use, or storage of data with imprisonment ranging from six months to two years and a fine, aligning this offense with the crime of stalking.

    The project must undergo final review by the Communications Committees and the Constitution and Justice and Citizenship Committees. It also requires approval from the Federal Senate to become law.

  • Microsoft has announced the removal of Paint 3D, signaling the end of the popular program.

    Microsoft has announced the removal of Paint 3D, signaling the end of the popular program.

    Microsoft has officially declared the end of Paint 3D, an image editing tool that came with Windows 10.

    The application is set to be deleted from the Microsoft Store on November 4, 2024, signaling the conclusion of an app that was launched with the goal of making 3D content creation more widespread among users.

    Summary

    • Microsoft has revealed that Paint 3D will be discontinued and removed from the Microsoft Store by November 4, 2024. Existing installations will still be functional, but the app will no longer be available for download.
    • Microsoft recommends using Paint or Photos app for editing 2D images and 3D Viewer for viewing 3D content.

    Microsoft has declared that Paint 3D will be discontinued and taken off the Microsoft Store on November 4, 2024. Existing installations of the app will still function, but it will no longer be available for download after that date.

    Microsoft recommends using Paint or Photos app for editing 2D images and 3D Viewer for viewing 3D content.

    Not using the app.

    Paint 3D was created to enable the editing of both 2D and 3D images, offering a contemporary take on the traditional Microsoft Paint. Nonetheless, it did not attract a large number of users as anticipated.

    Microsoft recognized this by not including Paint 3D as a default application in Windows 11, making it available as an optional choice for users who still wished to utilize the tool.

    When is the removal scheduled?

    Users who need to reinstall Paint 3D must do so before the specified date as it will no longer be available for download after November 4, 2024. Existing installations will remain functional.

    Options

    Microsoft suggests using Paint or the Photos app for editing 2D images and 3D Viewer for viewing 3D content as alternatives.

    Paint 3D alternatives

    • 2D Image Editing: Choosing between Paint and Photos.
    • Visualization of three-dimensional content: Viewer for 3D.

    The conclusion of Paint 3D signifies shifts in user preferences and requirements, with a broader selection of specialized tools available both within and beyond the Microsoft environment.

  • WhatsApp is getting ready to release an update that includes usernames and PINs. Explore the modifications.

    WhatsApp is getting ready to release an update that includes usernames and PINs. Explore the modifications.

    WhatsApp is getting ready to release a new update for beta users on Google Play, which will bring the version to 2.24.18.2. The main highlight of this update is the introduction of a feature that enables users to create custom usernames with PIN support, aiming to enhance privacy and security within the app.

    What alterations occur to the user name and PIN?

    WhatsApp is developing a new feature that enables users to create a distinctive username for communication within the app, providing an alternative to using phone numbers and enhancing privacy by avoiding direct sharing of personal information.

    Criação de nome de usuário no WhatsApp; Foto: WBI
    Imagem: timmossholder/FreeImages

    WhatsApp is working on a new PIN feature for usernames to add an extra level of security. This PIN, with a minimum of four digits, will be required for initial contact with other users, reducing unwanted messages and allowing only authorized users to initiate conversations.

    Enhanced authority and confidentiality

    WhatsApp’s PIN feature is designed to empower users by allowing them to decide who can contact them first. Existing contacts will still have access to your phone number, but you can choose to use a username for future communication to maintain your privacy. It’s important to note that the PIN is optional and not required for ongoing conversations.

    When will it happen?

    This feature that allows usernames to be supported by a PIN is currently being worked on and will be included in a forthcoming update, with no specific release date yet.

    Information comes from WBI.

  • Research integration with Gemini and Lens is now possible in Chrome’s latest updates.

    Research integration with Gemini and Lens is now possible in Chrome’s latest updates.

    Google Chrome’s latest version 128.0.6613.85 includes significant updates that impact user experience. Notable changes include the integration of Google Lens and the ability to chat with Gemini directly from the address bar.

    Google Lens

    Google Lens no Chrome
    Imagem: MaxWdhs/KaboomPics

    Google Lens is now easier to use on Chrome, enabling users to search various elements on a webpage, such as images, videos, or slides during a live stream. It provides instant answers in the same tab, allowing uninterrupted browsing.

    Using Lens in Chrome:

    1. Open the menu of Google Chrome.
    2. Choose “Search with Lens”.
    3. Select the content you want to search on the page by clicking and dragging.
    4. The responses will be displayed in a sidebar for you to further improve your search.
    5. You can make it easier to access by pinning the Google Lens icon to the toolbar.

    Gemini – a constellation in the night sky.

    Gemini no Chrome
    Imagem: timmossholder/Burst

    Google has integrated the Gemini assistant, ChatGPT, in order to make it easier for users to access answers. This feature is conveniently available through the Chrome address bar.

    To utilize Gemini:

    1. Type the symbol “@” in the address bar.
    2. Choose “Engage in Conversation with Gemini”.
    3. Input your command to receive the response in Gemini from Google.

    How can I upgrade?

    The latest update is now ready to be downloaded. To update, simply open the three-dot Menu, navigate to Help, and select About Chrome. This screen will prompt Chrome to automatically search for updates.

    Have you enabled anti-theft protection on your Android device? It’s simple to do.

  • WhatsApp is testing a new feature to make it easier to view Status updates.

    WhatsApp is testing a new feature to make it easier to view Status updates.

    WhatsApp is experimenting with a new feature to make it easier for users to engage with the Status feature, resembling Instagram and Facebook Stories. The parent company, Meta, is working on a shortcut that allows users to see photos and videos of their contacts directly on the Status View page.

    A new testing option is already available on Instagram and Facebook.

    The new feature in beta version 2.24.19.4 for Android, as reported by WABetaInfo, enhances the usability of Status by enabling users to view updates without having to navigate the app’s home screen horizontal tray, potentially increasing user engagement with short-term posts.

    WhatsApp testa nova função para facilitar a visualização de Status. Imagem: WABetaInfo/Reprodução
    Imagem: stephmcblack/iStock

    Currently, the new shortcut is being tested, and there is no estimated release date for all WhatsApp users. Meta anticipates that this update will enhance the visibility of Status and streamline interactions.

  • Google has launched a new free voice chat feature for Android called Gemini.

    Google has launched a new free voice chat feature for Android called Gemini.

    Gemini Live, Google chat mode is now accessible for free to all Android users, enabling natural conversations with an AI wizard similar to voice chat on ChatGPT. Previously exclusive to Gemini Advanced subscribers.

    How to use Gemini Live at no cost

    To access the complimentary function, you need to download the Google Gemini app and tap the wave icon in the app’s lower right corner to activate the microphone for asking questions aloud. Gemini Live will then appear in full screen, offering buttons at the bottom for managing features.

    Reprodução: Gemini Live
    Imagem: xsix/FreePik

    Users can easily interrupt the AI during conversations and customize the bot’s voice to be more engaging and suitable for their preferences.

    Google mentions that currently, the new features are exclusive to English, but they plan to introduce them in other languages soon. The company also aims to make Gemini Live accessible on iPhones.

    The new feature is currently only available in one language and is not yet compatible with Gemini extensions that allow access to other Google services like Gmail.

    Voice choices available on Gemini Live

    One significant new feature is the ability to select the assistant’s voice from 10 options available in Gemini settings under “Voice of Gemini.” The different voice types that can be chosen are listed below.

    • New: Simple • Intermediate vocal range
    • Bear: Occupied • Voice at a moderate distance
    • Vega: Shiny • Elevated pitch
    • Pegasus: Committed • Lower pitch
    • Orbit: Energetic • Lower pitch
    • Lyra: Shiny • Elevated pitch
    • Orion is brilliant and has a lower pitch voice.
    • Dipper is committed and has a lower voice.
    • Eclipse: Lively • Moderate-pitched vocals
    • Capella has a British accent and speaks with a higher pitch.

  • Flappy Bird has made a return to Android and iPhone after being absent for a decade.

    Flappy Bird has made a return to Android and iPhone after being absent for a decade.

    After a decade of absence, the popular Flappy Bird game is making a comeback in 2025 on Android and iOS, thanks to the Flappy Bird Foundation, a team of fans who now own the game’s trademark. The game’s return includes a new trailer and the addition of a desktop version.

    Why was Flappy Bird taken off the market?

    The game was stopped by its developer, Dong Nguyen, in 2014 due to concerns about it being too addictive. Despite being taken down from app stores, several unofficial versions were made, but none matched the popularity of the original game.

    New developments in the latest version of Flappy Bird

    The Flappy Bird Foundation will introduce a new game with exciting features like multiple bird species, eggs to hatch, and diverse environments. They have also obtained the rights to Piou Piou vs Cactus in addition to Flappy Bird.

    The new trailer suggests that the game mechanics will resemble those seen in popular mobile games like Candy Crush. Additionally, players can make in-game purchases for items like skins and packages.

    Michael Roberts, creative chief of the Flappy Bird Foundation, has exciting plans for the game’s future, including a basketball-themed mode and a multiplayer Rivals mode for up to 100 players.

    The Flappy Bird Foundation aims to provide long-term entertainment to players by offering regular updates and news when the game relaunches. Fans can look forward to the game returning to iOS and Android in 2025, and to desktop in 2024.

    See the trailer for the return of Flappy Bird below:

  • Having trouble accessing your phone using biometrics? Find out what the issue could be.

    Having trouble accessing your phone using biometrics? Find out what the issue could be.

    Biometric technology is more common in our daily lives now, allowing us to unlock our phones, do banking, and access social media with a simple fingerprint scan. While this method is generally secure due to the uniqueness of each person’s fingerprint, it is not without its flaws and can fail for various reasons.

    What caused the decline in the effectiveness of cell phone biometrics?

    The biometric sensor on our cell phone may not always be to blame for issues with fingerprint recognition. Our fingerprints can deteriorate over time due to aging, exposure to chemicals, or trauma.

    It is becoming more and more frequent for this type of issue to concern individuals who rely on digital technology to access services, including their mobile devices.

    Reasons for Utilizing Digital Impressions

    Repetitive actions like typing and gaming can gradually damage the skin on the hands, resulting in a reduction in the clarity of fingerprints known as microtrauma.

    Frequent exposure to chemicals, particularly in plastic materials and cleaning products, can result in irritative dermatitis, leading to skin inflammation and altered texture that may affect fingerprint clarity.

    Health professionals and individuals who frequently need to clean their hands encounter a problem with excessive use of soap and chemicals. This can lead to increased skin damage and deterioration of fingerprint quality.

    Consequences and Difficulties

    Loss of fingerprints can be further diagnosed, and it may take several months for fingerprints to return to normal after discontinuing the use of irritating products or changing habits that led to the issue.

    Deteriorating fingerprints can impact the precision of biometric identification methods, making verification and security procedures more challenging.

    Prevention and Maintenance

    Keeping your hands hydrated is important for maintaining the integrity of your fingerprints. Using certain lotions can help shield the skin from damage.

    Specialized products like “weather balm” can be utilized in places with frequent fingerprint collection, like identification centers, to enhance the capturing of fingerprints.

    Biometrics’ Future

    Biometric technology may advance by integrating various identification factors beyond fingerprints, such as facial recognition and retina scanning, enhancing accuracy and reliability for improved safety and convenience in identification systems.

    Preserving fingerprints is crucial for the functionality of biometric technologies, necessitating strategies like proper moisturization and the application of specialized products to address issues related to wear and skin alterations.

  • Is it possible to make private calls? Find out how to do it on Android and iPhone.

    Is it possible to make private calls? Find out how to do it on Android and iPhone.

    Many individuals prefer privacy regarding their mobile numbers and links. Various methods allow you to make calls without disclosing your number to the recipient, regardless of whether you use an Android device, iPhone, or another service provider. Ensuring your number remains private can enhance the confidentiality of your calls.

    How to keep your phone number confidential

    To hide your number when making a call, you can easily do so by entering a specific code before dialing the number. Follow these instructions carefully:

    1. Insert code #31# prior to the telephone number you wish to dial.
    2. Make the phone call in the usual manner.

    This method is useful for immediate calls when you wish to keep your identity concealed. Many service providers support this feature without requiring extra configurations. If not, there are alternative methods to hide your number during phone calls.

    Reprodução: YouTube
    Imagem: astrovariable/PixaBay

    How to Keep Your Phone Number Private for All Calls

    You can set your phone to hide your number for all outgoing calls by adjusting the settings on your device. Learn how to do this on various operating systems.

    On Android devices:

    1. Open the telephone application.
    2. Tap the icon with three points or the menu with options.
    3. Choose either Settings or Settings.
    4. Go to the Calls section.
    5. Choose either Call Identification or Number Display.
    6. Choose the Hide number option.

    On an iPhone:

    1. Navigate to the Settings application.
    2. Phone contact selection feature.
    3. Tap on the option labeled Show My Number.
    4. Turn off the Show My Number feature.

    All your calls will be placed with a concealed number, showing up as “private” or “unknown” to the recipient. To reverse this, simply repeat the process and undo the changes made.

    When should private number calls be utilized?

    Making calls using a private number can be beneficial in different scenarios, such as when reaching out to unfamiliar individuals for business purposes or discussing sensitive topics, as concealing the number adds an additional level of protection.

    In professional situations, this feature is beneficial for safeguarding personal contact information and ensuring privacy in specific communications.

    Using this feature cautiously is crucial, as some individuals might not answer calls from unidentified or private numbers, potentially hindering communication in certain scenarios. Therefore, it’s advisable to assess the situation before opting for this method.

  • WhatsApp is testing a new button for users who enjoy sharing Status updates.

    WhatsApp is testing a new button for users who enjoy sharing Status updates.

    A recent WhatsApp test update was released via the Google Play Beta Program. The latest version, 2.24.20.9, introduces a feature that could benefit users who enjoy customizing their contacts’ statuses in the app. This new feature is currently being tested and may be included in upcoming updates of the messaging platform.

    WhatsApp now enables users to reference a status in their chats.

    The beta version 2.24.20.3 of WhatsApp introduced the feature to mention contacts in status updates, enabling users to directly involve specific contacts in their updates through notifications.

    WhatsApp now offers the option to redirect status updates in version 2.24.20.9, which can be accessed through the Google Play Beta Program on the Google Play Store.

    Novo recurso permite reenvio de status do WhatsApp
    Imagem: driles/FreePik

    WhatsApp is looking into introducing a new button for resending status updates where users are mentioned in a future update. The current button, available to some beta testers, is a simple icon next to the caption bar, which might not be clear to all users. The upcoming redesigned button will be larger, feature both an icon and text, and be placed above the caption bar to make its function more apparent to users.