TechCapsules

Pixi Platform has launched a new app called Pixi Garden, which allows users to send interactive augmented reality characters through iMessage. These characters, called "pixis," come alive through the recipient's phone camera and react to their surroundings using onboard AI and machine learning sensors. The app offers 3D characters, such as a robot and a cat, as well as simple games like tic-tac-toe and whack-a-mole. The processing happens directly on the iPhone, ensuring no data leaves the [...]

Canonical has announced Myna, a local speech-to-text app for Ubuntu Desktop, to be included in the upcoming version 26.10, also known as "Stonking Stingray". The app will allow users to dictate text, which will appear in the application they are using, with clear visual feedback. Myna is designed to provide reliable desktop dictation, a basic but important step in improving desktop Linux functionality. The app will be open source, with a GitHub repository already available, although it [...]

India's temporary ban on Telegram has led to a surge in VPN downloads and alternative messaging app usage. The ban, which will last until June 22, was imposed due to concerns about exam-related fraud on the platform. As a result, VPN app downloads rose 49% to 208,000 on the day of the announcement, with Proton VPN and Turbo VPN seeing significant increases. Users are also turning to alternative messaging apps, such as Signal and Viber, with downloads [...]

Microsoft is rolling out a change to its Authenticator app, requiring users to manually enter a two-digit number for login verification instead of tapping one of three options. This update aims to improve security by reducing the risk of accidental approvals and spam attacks. The change first appeared for enterprise and education users, but has since started rolling out to personal Microsoft accounts. The update is part of Microsoft's efforts to phase out insecure SMS codes as [...]

Spotify has launched "Reserved by Spotify," a system that identifies top fans of an artist and holds two tour tickets for them before the general ticket sale opens. The feature, available for Live Nation concerts, uses signals like streams, shares, and activity to determine eligible fans. Ticket sales are through Ticketmaster, and the system aims to reward music fans and encourage paid subscriptions. Spotify plans to add more partners and smaller venues over time, including international users.

Facebook Messenger has suddenly disappeared from Android Auto, leaving users frustrated and without access to their messages while driving. The app's removal comes without warning and no official explanation from Meta. The change affects users with the latest version of Facebook Messenger, with the icon and app no longer appearing on car displays or in the launcher customization screen. Android Auto's notification UI still supports Messenger notifications, but without a direct filter.

Meta has announced the launch of paid subscriptions for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, dubbed "Plus" plans, with prices ranging from $2.99 to $3.99 per month. The subscriptions offer special features such as story rewatch and stealth mode. Meta's decision to charge for its services is driven by the need to invest in AI technology and infrastructure, with a budget of $125-145 billion this year. The company aims to diversify its revenue streams, currently reliant on ads, and [...]

Apple has announced that developers in Brazil can now distribute iOS apps through alternative app stores and process payments outside the App Store. This change is part of Apple's agreement with Brazil's competition regulator, Conselho Administrativo de Defesa Econômica. The move loosens Apple's rules in another market, following similar revisions in the EU and Japan. New protections will be introduced, including a notarization process for iOS apps and authorization requirements for alternative app marketplaces. Developers in Brazil [...]