Kategorija: Applications and Software

Negotiations over TikTok's ownership remain active, and the future of the popular platform is still unresolved. A new arrangement may allow U.S. investors to take control of operations, while key technological components would remain under Beijing’s authority.

According to sources familiar with the matter, a preliminary agreement has been reached between the two sides, allowing the U.S. to assume operational control without transferring sensitive elements. At the center of attention is the sophisticated system behind content personalization, which would stay under Chinese ownership.

Reports indicate that part of the deal would involve licensing the technology and intellectual property, enabling use of the algorithm without transferring full control. The specifics of this arrangement are still being finalized, suggesting the deadline for a final decision may be extended.

Further coordination between the two powers is expected in order to finalize the technical and legal aspects. According to U.S. media, the American legislative body will play a crucial role in approving the final version of the deal.

Some analysts point out that development of a U.S.-specific version of the app is already underway, aiming to enable mutual content sharing between users both domestically and internationally. This would potentially open new opportunities for local creators to reach a broader audience.

It remains unclear which company or investment group will take over TikTok’s American operations. Previous speculation included major tech industry names, but no official confirmation has been provided yet.

Most users rarely remember their wireless network credentials because smartphones automatically reconnect once configured. However, certain situations may require retrieving those details—such as when guests visit, setting up a new device, or helping a family member connect. Instead of searching through paperwork or checking the back of your router, your Android phone likely already stores everything you need.

On most devices, saved Wi-Fi information can be accessed through the wireless settings menu. Simply open the settings, select the current network, and find the option to share via QR code. The password is usually displayed beneath the code. Depending on the system version, biometric confirmation or a security PIN might be required to view it.

Some phones offer additional features through advanced menus. For example, users of Samsung, Xiaomi, or OPPO phones can browse a list of previously connected networks and retrieve details for each. These tools make managing network access easier, without the need for extra apps or equipment.

In addition to viewing, Android allows for fast sharing using QR codes. This enables others to connect by simply scanning the code with their camera—eliminating the need to type in long or complex passwords and reducing the chance of errors.

It's important to understand that easy access to Wi-Fi credentials also comes with certain security risks. If someone gains physical access to your unlocked phone, they could potentially retrieve sensitive data. That’s why it’s wise to use strong screen lock methods, keep your system updated, and periodically change critical Wi-Fi passwords for added protection.

Former U.S. leader Donald Trump stated earlier this week that the negotiations between the United States and the People's Republic of China went exceptionally well. In a message shared via his own social media platform, he announced that the meeting held in Europe resulted in concrete progress regarding trade relations between the two global economic powers.

According to him, a key focus of the discussion was the ongoing issue surrounding the ownership structure of a popular digital platform, especially favored by younger generations. Trump suggested that a resolution had been reached—one that satisfies U.S. demands concerning national security and user data protection.

He also added that young people will be especially pleased with the outcome, as a solution has been found that allows continued use of the app in compliance with American regulations. Although specific details were not disclosed, his statement hints at a significant compromise.

Trump also announced a scheduled conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, set for the end of the week. This move indicates that cooperation between Washington and Beijing is still active, despite the many challenges faced in recent years.

He emphasized that bilateral relations remain stable and are built on mutual respect and strategic interest. According to his remarks, the cooperation is moving in a promising direction, paving the way for improved future engagement.

In conclusion, he pointed out that the negotiations are expected to be finalized soon, which could mark a new phase in the relationship between the two nations—especially in terms of technological and economic collaboration.

China’s leading social media platforms have begun implementing mandatory labels on content created using advanced algorithms. This measure comes in response to legislation that took effect earlier this week. Users of apps like WeChat, Douyin, Weibo, and RedNote can now see clear indicators showing when content has been generated by artificial intelligence, whether it involves text, images, audio, or video.

WeChat emphasized that individuals are required to clearly disclose the use of such technologies in their posts. Additionally, altering, removing, or hiding these labels is strictly prohibited.

Douyin specifically warned that every publication must include an appropriate tag and is also relying on technical methods to trace the source of the data. Meanwhile, Weibo has enabled the community to report improperly labeled material, encouraging collective oversight.

The introduction of these measures aims to increase transparency and public awareness, especially in an era where distinguishing between authentic and simulated content is becoming increasingly difficult.

French MP Arthur Delaporte from the Socialist Party has accused TikTok of knowingly endangering the mental health and lives of young users. He proposed introducing a “digital curfew” to restrict teenagers from using the app between 10 PM and 8 AM, aiming to protect their well-being.

A parliamentary committee chaired by Delaporte conducted a months-long investigation into TikTok’s impact on young people. The investigation found that TikTok’s algorithms push children and adolescents toward dangerous content, including topics related to depression and suicide. The report also highlighted issues such as attention disorders, disrupted sleep cycles, and lowered self-esteem among teenagers.

TikTok denied the accusations, claiming they are “incorrect” and unfairly blaming the platform for broader social problems. ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, stated that it uses AI-powered content moderation systems to ensure safer app usage. However, French lawmakers argue that these measures are insufficient, especially since the number of French-language moderators decreased by more than a quarter between September 2023 and December 2024.

Committee rapporteur Laure Miller emphasized the urgent need for additional protections for children and young people on social media. Additionally, French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed support for banning social media use among children under 15 years old, which could further intensify the debate on regulating the digital space in France.

This initiative raises an important discussion about the impact of digital platforms on young people’s mental health and the need for stronger protections in the digital age.

As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially stop supporting the Windows 10 operating system. Users will no longer receive security updates, technical support, or new features. While the system will remain functional, the risk of exposure to cyber threats will significantly increase.

In addition, Microsoft 365 apps will no longer receive updates on devices running Windows 10. Popular tools like Word and Excel will still work, but over time, users can expect performance drops and reduced reliability.

Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11, purchasing a new device with the latest system pre-installed, or subscribing to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued protection.

For the first time, this paid extension is available to individual users at a price of $30 per year. Businesses will have the option to extend support for up to three years. According to IT Pro, Microsoft could earn over $7.3 billion in revenue from around 121 million devices relying on ESU services.

Adoption of Windows 11 has been slower than expected—its global market share fell below 50% in August, while usage of Windows 10 rose. Surprisingly, even Windows 7, which is no longer supported, saw a slight increase in use. Experts suggest that the stricter hardware requirements of Windows 11 and a general preference among companies for cost-efficiency and stability are slowing the transition.

The Cupertino tech giant is finally getting closer to launching a foldable device. After years of speculation and secretive developments, internal testing of a foldable model is reportedly underway. According to information from Asia, this specimen has entered a serious testing phase, which should last until the end of next year.

The device could be introduced alongside the series that will debut in 2026. Given Apple's reputation, expectations are high, and the prototype is reportedly filled with innovations that aim to raise the bar in this category. The focus is on sophisticated design, durability and user experience, which suggests a departure from current industry norms.

Notable features include a nearly bezel-less display, an advanced camera located under the display, a new unlocking system, and premium materials such as titanium and liquid metal in the foldable hinge. The entire concept appears significantly thinner and more elegant compared to the competition, while at the same time promising strength and fluid bending.

Interestingly, there was a parallel halt in the development of a tablet with a similar design. Analysts cite manufacturing challenges and declining interest as the main reasons for the decision. Instead, the company is focusing on the mobile segment as an entry point into the category.

Compared to brands that already have experience with such devices, Apple's late entry can be interpreted as a cautious but wise strategy. Learning from the problems of other manufacturers, they aim to avoid mistakes and offer a stable, technologically mature solution that could redefine the luxury phone category.

Instagram recently introduced a new option that allows users to share their real-time location with friends via an interactive map. Although Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, claims that the feature is designed to allow users to better connect with people and places near them, public reactions have been stormy and mostly negative.

The new Instagram map works so that a user can choose to share their last active location with the people they follow. It is important to note that this option is turned off by default and must be manually activated in the settings. However, many users on social media have expressed concern, stating that the feature can be misused and poses a security risk.

Social networks have been flooded with comments from users who think location sharing is “dangerous” and unnecessary. One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote: “The Instagram map is a burglar's dream. Turn off your location. Don't let the world know where you are or when your house is empty.” Others have expressed concerns about the possibility of stalking, tracking, or privacy violations, even among acquaintances.

Meta has tried to allay concerns by claiming that users have full control over this feature—they can choose who they share their location with (close friends only, selected contacts, or no one), and parents who use supervision for their child’s accounts will be notified if their child turns on the feature. It’s also possible to hide your location from specific places or individuals.

Finally, even if you don’t share your location, you can still use the map to view public content tied to specific locations. While the goal of this feature is similar to what other apps like Snapchat offer, user reviews indicate that the boundaries of privacy are increasingly being pushed, and for many, it’s becoming unacceptable. To disable this feature, go to: Settings > Activity > Story, Live, and Location > Instagram Map Location Sharing > No One.

WhatsApp is preparing a significant new feature – the “guest chats” feature that will allow correspondence with people who do not have a WhatsApp account. Communication will be initiated via a special link that the user can share, and the recipient will be able to access the conversation without having to install the application or register. This could be a big change in the way we communicate via one of the most popular messaging platforms.

However, the feature is limited exclusively to private one-on-one conversations. Group chats, sending photos, videos, voice messages, and audio and video calls – all of this will not be available to guests. Guest users will, apparently, communicate exclusively via WhatsApp Web, where a temporary, encrypted channel for correspondence will be created.

According to information from the WABetaInfo portal, the feature is still in the development phase and is currently not available to beta testers. However, it is expected that conversations will continue to rely on the well-known WhatsApp end-to-end encryption, which maintains a high level of security even for users without an account.

It’s important to note that this is not the same as interoperability with other apps – guest chats remain entirely within the WhatsApp ecosystem. Meta hopes this move will attract new users who haven’t used the app before, and the guest experience can serve as a first step towards a full migration to WhatsApp.

Whether the feature’s limitations will prevent wider adoption or whether its simplicity will be the reason for its success – only time will tell. This option is sure to further shape the way we use digital communication tools.

Apple is planning three years of major redesigns of its iPhones, starting with the iPhone 17 model arriving this fall. According to information from reliable sources, the design will change significantly, and a foldable iPhone is also coming, while a completely new iPhone 20 has been announced for 2027.

iPhone 17 Air replaces the Plus model
As early as September 2025, Apple will introduce the iPhone 17 series, and the main novelty will be a completely new model called the iPhone 17 Air, which will replace the current iPhone Plus. According to information from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the Air model will be thinner, lighter and more elegant, with a single rear camera and Apple's own modem.

The device will have a smaller battery and will not support a physical SIM card, relying exclusively on eSIM technology. With this move, Apple further simplifies the design and creates space for an even more compact body.

Changes to the Pro model
While the basic iPhone 17 will retain a similar appearance to the previous generation, bigger changes are expected for the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max models. Gurman announces a new design of the rear camera module, which could affect the better functionality and aesthetic impression of the device.

Apple thus continues the practice that the most advanced design and hardware innovations first arrive on the Pro models, which are becoming more and more separate from the standard versions.

A foldable iPhone will arrive in 2026.
One of the most anticipated innovations is Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is expected to arrive in 2026. The code name of this device is V68, and it will have as many as four cameras – two on the back, one on the outside and one inside the flip part.

The device will use Apple's C2 modem and an advanced in-cell touch panel for the internal display, which should reduce the fold crease and allow for better touch sensitivity. Testing is currently done in black and white.

iPhone 20: Curved glass for the 20th anniversary
For the year 2027, Apple is preparing a spectacular edition on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the iPhone. According to rumors, the iPhone 20 model will bring a completely new design made of curved glass, which will be the biggest change in the visual identity of the iPhone so far.

The iPhone 20 is expected to be visually and functionally unique, and significantly different from anything Apple has introduced so far.