Latest news with #messaging
Forbes
16 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
Why You Should Stop Texting On Your iPhone Or Android Phone
It's time to stop texting This is the biggest shake-up to texting and messaging in years. And for Apple and Google, it risks undermining any security and privacy assurances made around RCS. Make no mistake — this could be the best reason yet to stop texting on your phone. We have known for some time that WhatsApp is working on a username alternative to phone numbers. This is already live on Telegram and Signal and it's a game-changer. It means you can give contacts a username that's unique to the messaging platform without giving away your phone number. It also means you can stop people finding you by your phone number, preventing spam and scam messages. WhatsApp is going even further — and it's a brilliant move. As reported by the beta insiders at WABetaInfo, 'WhatsApp plans to introduce an optional PIN code feature linked to usernames, which will be required for others to initiate a new conversation with the user. This PIN will immediately 'reduce unwanted messages.' Set against the backdrop of surging smashing attacks across the U.S., which has prompted further FBI warnings this weekend, creating a protected messaging enclave in which you control access is exactly what's needed. PINs and usernames coming to WhatsApp And while there may be verified business contacts operating in a controlled manner, that's very different from the current free-for-all with Chinese OCGs running riot across SMS and RCS. Yes, advances are being made in filtering spam and scams on-device, but it's proving too easy for attackers to bombard SMS and RCS networks. Texting will always have this phone number vulnerability, and RCS which has promised so much is being let down with the increase in spam and marketing. As such, it's likely that texting will gradually be relegated on phones to an also-ran, as more protected, opt-in messaging platforms filter out all the noise. And no platform has more chance of making this work than WhatsApp, with its 3 billion users. The big hope for texting has been fully encrypting RCS, which is expected this year. There has been speculation that Apple will provide new news at WWDC. But I would be very surprised to see Apple headline anything on RCS, given that it's not a core Apple capability on iPhone and runs in parallel to iMessage. Google would have been much more likely to announce updates and changes at I/O. Make no mistake — 2025 is a huge year for messaging. Scams are spiraling out of control even as Google peddles the growth and benefits of RCS. WhatsApp is running its biggest ever marketing campaign on its privacy merits and has just released an iPad app after a decade of promises. Usernames and PINs dropping soon would be seismic for the sector, giving you the best reason yet to move wholesale from texting.
The Verge
3 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
WhatsApp is working on an easier way to log out
WhatsApp is developing a solution for users to take a break from the messaging service without nuking their account data. A new 'Logout [internal]' option spotted in the WhatsApp 2.25.17.37 beta release by Android Authority presents users with the choice to sign out on their primary WhatsApp device while either retaining or erasing their app data and preferences. For all intents and purposes, the only way that users can currently sign out of WhatsApp's mobile app is to either wipe the app data from Android device settings or delete WhatsApp entirely on iOS. Linked devices running the web and desktop app versions of WhatsApp make it far easier by comparison, providing a clear log out button under the user profile. The new Logout button is located in WhatsApp's user settings below the account deletion button. The 'Erase all Data & preferences' option does exactly that, according to Android Authority, while the 'Keep all Data & preferences' option is better for taking some temporary respite from the service, or for users without dual-SIM devices who need to switch accounts, as the account will be exactly as it was left when you sign back in. It isn't clear when (or if) this developmental feature will be rolled out to the public, or if it will be available on both Android and iOS, given each currently has a different logout process. We have asked Meta for more information.
TechCrunch
3 days ago
- Business
- TechCrunch
X hits pause on its encrypted DMs feature
In Brief Social network X said on Thursday that it is pausing its encrypted DMs feature as it works to make some improvements. In a post on X, the company's engineering account said users will be able to access their existing encrypted messages, but they won't be able to send new ones. It did not mention when the feature will be available again. After Elon Musk bought Twitter, he announced ambitious plans to overhaul direct messages and compete with privacy-focused messaging service Signal. The company rolled out the encrypted DMs feature in 2023 for verified users, but it comes with several drawbacks. For instance, the feature isn't available for group chats, and only supports encryption for text and links, not media. It also does not offer protections against man-in-the-middle attacks, and your encrypted conversations do not carry over to new devices.
Android Authority
3 days ago
- Business
- Android Authority
Google Messages finally has an easy way to see who has RCS
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority TL;DR The latest version of the Google Messages app finally makes it easy to see if a contact uses RCS. Contacts now have an 'RCS' badge to the right of their name. This is a welcome departure from having to open a chat with each contact to see if they use it. Google Messages has supported RCS for years now, but one missing feature is the ability to quickly check which contacts are using this standard. We discovered last month that Google was working on RCS labels, and it looks like this feature is finally available to users. 9to5Google and Redditors report that Google Messages now displays a badge next to contacts that have RCS. The badges are displayed in the contact list that appears after you tap the 'start chat' button. The labels are said to be available in the latest beta version of the app (version 20250527_01_RC00), although we can't see them yet on our phones. Check out the screenshot below, courtesy of Redditor anirruddhdodiya. Hadlee Simons / Android Authority Nevertheless, this is a sorely needed quality-of-life feature. There was no quick way to find out which contacts had RCS. Users have to open a chat with a contact and then check whether 'RCS message' or 'Text message' appears in the text field. I quickly found this to be a laborious task, so I'm glad to see Google has finally released a solution. This also comes after we recently discovered several other features coming to Google Messages. For starters, the app will let you share invites to group chats via QR code or URL. Google is also working on @mentions and a faster way to delete videos. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Geek Vibes Nation
3 days ago
- Business
- Geek Vibes Nation
Unlocking A New Dimension In Messaging
Photo by Luis Villasmil on Unsplash Exploring the 5 Best Telegram Client Apps for Android. Telegram has become one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, praised for its speed, encryption, cloud-based architecture, and open-source API. While the official app meets the needs of most users, it's not the only gateway to the Telegram ecosystem. Android users, in particular, are fortunate to have access to a wide range of Telegram client apps that extend, customize, or even transform the experience altogether. These alternative clients are made possible due to Telegram's open API, which encourages developers to create new interpretations of the platform while still using the same secure infrastructure. Whether you're a minimalist, a power user, or someone who simply wants a different interface, exploring the 5 best Telegram client apps for Android is a great way to enhance your messaging lifestyle. One of the standout apps in this category is Nicegram . Known for its polished interface and privacy-friendly features, Nicegram offers much more than the basic Telegram experience. It supports unlimited accounts, unlocks restricted content, and includes powerful tools for managing large groups and bots. This makes it an ideal choice for users looking to go beyond the surface of instant messaging. Why Use Alternative Telegram Clients? With the official Telegram app already offering a rich set of features, why would someone choose to use a different client? The answer lies in customization, performance, and specific feature sets. Some clients offer additional privacy options, better UI flexibility, enhanced notification controls, or even productivity features not present in the official app. Moreover, Android is known for its open nature, giving users the freedom to install third-party apps that align with their preferences. When you explore the 5 best Telegram client apps for Android, you open the door to improved workflows, better security control, and an interface that suits your unique communication habits. The 5 Best Telegram Client Apps for Android Each client listed below has been selected for its stability, community support, and value-added features. All of these apps work with your existing Telegram account, meaning you don't have to start from scratch or worry about compatibility issues. Nicegram Nicegram is widely considered one of the most polished and feature-rich Telegram clients available. It combines a clean, intuitive interface with powerful privacy tools. One of its most popular features is the ability to unlock restricted content, which is especially useful for users in countries with heavy censorship. In addition, Nicegram allows the management of multiple accounts without requiring constant log-ins and log-outs. The app also supports smart folders and a built-in bot interface, making it perfect for community managers and developers. With its focus on speed, security, and utility, Nicegram offers a communication experience that's both seamless and professional. Telegram X Originally developed by Telegram as an experimental app, Telegram X was designed to test new features and performance improvements before rolling them out to the main app. As a result, it offers a smoother, faster interface, enhanced animations, and better overall performance. Telegram X is ideal for users who want a lightweight yet high-speed messaging app without unnecessary visual clutter. Although it doesn't include as many customization options as some other clients, its core advantage is performance. Telegram X is often the go-to for users who prioritize speed and efficiency. Plus Messenger For those who love to tweak and customize their messaging experience, Plus Messenger is a perfect fit. Built on the Telegram API, it offers extensive customization options including themes, chat organization, and custom tabs. You can sort your chats by groups, bots, channels, and personal messages—something not available in the original app. Plus Messenger also includes a wider range of notification and font settings, allowing users to tailor the look and feel to their exact liking. If personalization is important to you, Plus Messenger will not disappoint. iMe Messenger iMe Messenger goes beyond being just another Telegram client by integrating AI tools, productivity features, and even a built-in cryptocurrency wallet. This makes it one of the most comprehensive clients for professional users and tech-savvy individuals. Features like voice-to-text transcription, Google Drive backup integration, and translation tools allow users to work more effectively within the app. iMe is ideal for those who rely on Telegram for business or want to incorporate their crypto activities into their daily communication routines. Nekogram Nekogram is an open-source Telegram client that offers extra privacy and customization options. With detailed proxy settings, font options, and UI tweaks, it appeals to users who want full control over how the app looks and functions. It also allows users to hide the bottom bar and move the navigation tabs to the top—great for those who like a more traditional layout. Security-conscious users will appreciate Nekogram's transparency and its focus on privacy. For those who enjoy minimal yet flexible experiences, it's a strong contender among the 5 best Telegram client apps for Android. Benefits of Using Third-Party Telegram Clients The ability to choose from the 5 best Telegram client apps for Android gives users a distinct advantage. Whether you want better performance, enhanced privacy, or just a fresh look, there's a client tailored for you. These apps leverage Telegram's secure infrastructure while adding new layers of functionality that appeal to niche audiences and power users alike. Some benefits include: Improved Privacy Settings: Clients like Nicegram and Nekogram allow users to unlock restricted content and set up advanced proxies. Customization: From themes and fonts to notification settings and chat organization, clients such as Plus Messenger offer options far beyond the original app. Performance Optimization: Telegram X provides a smoother and faster experience, ideal for users with older devices or slower networks. Professional Features: iMe brings productivity tools and integrations that help users manage work and personal communication in one place. Considerations Before Switching Clients Before you replace the official Telegram app with a third-party client, keep the following in mind: Security – While all listed clients are built on Telegram's secure API, always download apps from trusted sources like Google Play or official developer websites. Updates – Not all third-party clients are updated as frequently as the main app, so ensure the one you choose has active development. Feature Compatibility – Some Telegram features might not be available or work slightly differently in unofficial clients. Evaluate based on your most used functions. Support – Community support for clients like Nicegram or Plus Messenger is often strong, but not as immediate as the official Telegram support. The Future of Telegram Client Apps As long as Telegram maintains its open API, the development of third-party clients will continue to flourish. This benefits users by offering a richer ecosystem of options, allowing them to tailor their messaging environment to suit their lifestyles. The growing popularity of the 5 best Telegram client apps for Android is a clear indicator of how much people value freedom of choice when it comes to digital communication. From casual chatters to crypto traders, students to software developers—everyone can find a Telegram client that meets their unique needs. In a world where communication apps are central to our personal and professional lives, having the ability to choose how we interact matters more than ever. Exploring the 5 best Telegram client apps for Android opens up opportunities for deeper control, enhanced productivity, and a more personalized messaging experience. Nicegram leads the list for its balance of functionality, privacy, and elegant design. Whether you're looking for speed, customization, or professional features, one of these Telegram clients will help you get the most out of every message you send. Caroline is doing her graduation in IT from the University of South California but keens to work as a freelance blogger. She loves to write on the latest information about IoT, technology, and business. She has innovative ideas and shares her experience with her readers.
