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The Sensationalism Spectrum

The transformation of Twitter into X under Elon Musk's ownership has been a rollercoaster for media reporting. Amidst sensational headlines predicting the platform's collapse, there have been contrasting reports of innovative features and record engagement. This polarized coverage has led to questions about the media's approach to tech journalism.

Despite the fluctuating media narratives, X has shown consistent growth each year, according to its own reports. Record-breaking live streams and widespread usage by news outlets suggest robust activity on the platform. However, the accuracy of these claims is somewhat reliant on X's self-reported data, given its status as a private company.

Media's Contradictory Stance

The relationship between the media and X has been paradoxical. Many news outlets have critiqued the platform while simultaneously relying on it for news sourcing. This contradictory approach has highlighted a potential bias in tech journalism, where factual reporting often seems overshadowed by sensationalism and personal opinions.

Interestingly, media outlets have been promoting alternative platforms to X, seemingly in a bid to undermine its position. However, their daily reporting still heavily relies on X's content, with embedded tweets and references. This strategy indicates a two-fold approach: attempting to weaken X while not fully committing to its alternatives. This selective endorsement and reliance raise questions about the media's motives and the authenticity of their support for smaller platforms.

A Call for Balanced Journalism

The situation with X calls for a more balanced and factual approach in tech journalism. Rather than swaying between extremes, media outlets should strive for objectivity, offering a comprehensive view of the tech landscape. The goal should be to provide insightful journalism that informs and educates, moving away from sensationalism and towards a more nuanced understanding of social media dynamics.

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Merry Christmas to everyone who celebrates the holiday!

Deprecation of Windows Mixed Reality

Microsoft has officially marked the end of its Windows Mixed Reality platform, a system initially launched in 2017. This decision, announced via an update to a list of deprecated Windows features, signifies Microsoft’s step back from its once-ambitious virtual reality endeavors. Windows Mixed Reality, along with the Mixed Reality Portal app and Windows Mixed Reality for Steam VR, is set to be phased out and removed in a future Windows release.

Shift in Focus and Downsizing

The move away from Windows Mixed Reality aligns with Microsoft's broader shift in strategy and recent downsizing efforts in its VR division. Notably, Alex Kipman, the head of the HoloLens project, departed last year amidst allegations of misconduct. Additionally, Microsoft's recent job cuts, affecting about 10,000 positions, included many roles linked to mixed reality projects. This included the AltspaceVR app, another casualty in Microsoft's changing approach to virtual and mixed reality.

Continued Ventures in Virtual Applications

Despite the deprecation of Windows Mixed Reality, Microsoft maintains its interest in other virtual reality applications. The company's Microsoft Mesh app, poised to allow virtual meetings without the need for headsets, is an example of this ongoing commitment. Furthermore, Microsoft’s partnership with Meta permits Quest users to access Microsoft Office applications and Xbox Cloud Gaming, indicating a continued exploration of VR's potential in various domains.

This move by Microsoft reflects a recalibration of its priorities within the virtual and augmented reality space, aligning with broader industry trends and internal company dynamics. While the Windows Mixed Reality platform will soon be a thing of the past, Microsoft's engagement in the virtual world continues through different avenues and partnerships.

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3 minutes ago, Grungie said:

For the former, if every community you meet in that particular field or hobby is negative or full of jerks, my suggestion is to just distance yourself from that community. You can still like the hobby or field, but hate the community. While I love punk music, I can’t stand the community. I just wanna talk about the music, but the community seems to care more about street cred and gatekeeping.

Though if you’re experiencing negativity in various communities, unless you have really bad luck with your interests (it’s possible), there’s a good chance it’s a you issue.

While I’m not condoning people being dicks, some people do need to step back and have some self reflection if you keep ending up in bad environments. Are your interests a magnet for toxic people, or are you the problem?

I'd like to expand on this point by noting how easily individuals can find themselves in echo chambers online, particularly those with negative or morally questionable viewpoints. In these spaces, not only are such stances accepted, but they are often reinforced and amplified by like-minded individuals. This can lead to the formation of communities with increasingly toxic ideologies, sometimes expressed in subtle but harmful ways. The concerning aspect is when members of these echo chambers venture into more general communities, they may find themselves confused or frustrated by the lack of acceptance for their views, not realizing the toxicity that they've internalized and are projecting.  That user will likely proclaim they are being bullied, but in truth, they are simply out of touch with reality in many cases.

Interestingly, this is a key reason why I continue to host forums on most of my websites. As someone with strong opinions, I'm aware of how easy it is to inadvertently create an echo chamber myself, especially when you're the sole creator of content. By fostering a public community, I'm not claiming it's a foolproof solution, but it certainly introduces valuable checks and balances. This setup allows users to actively engage and question the direction of content and discussions, providing a broader range of perspectives and helping to prevent the formation of a one-sided narrative.

38 minutes ago, Grungie said:

I don’t know anything about OP, or accusing them of anything, but I’ve seen quite a few people from places like FP where they get mistreated on multiple communities because of their own actions, as opposed to them being having bad luck and only meeting assholes online.

This observation holds true for numerous issues encountered in the digital world. It's important to remember that online interactions are inherently public and can quickly place individuals in contentious situations. While this in no way justifies bullying or similar behaviors – there are always more constructive approaches – it's crucial to recognize the ease with which one can inadvertently create adversaries in various online spaces. Whether it’s joining a new community, engaging in a conversation, or commenting on a post, a few seconds and a few words can significantly impact how others perceive and interact with you online.

26 minutes ago, Grungie said:

I apologize for the double post, and the fact this is a few years old, but Facebook being a positive or negative experience is based almost entirely on your own actions. If you're friends with mostly drama queens and assholes, then yeah, Facebook will be a bad time. If you're friends with people who post benign stuff, you'll have a positive experience. It'll be smooth sailing if you also ignore Facebook groups and ignore comments on news pages of companies and stuff you follow.

I don't add people I don't care about, so I don't really see or deal with a lot of negativity on there.

Twitter on the other hand, curating it takes a lot of work, so you're not really missing much there. Facebook is significantly easier to curate.

Your perspective aligns closely with mine on this subject, especially considering the foundational life principle that "things are what you make of them." However, this notion mostly reinforces my initial argument regarding social media's tendency to foster a more negative environment compared to real-world interactions. In my experience with various social circles – be it friends, colleagues, hobbyist groups, or social clubs – the atmosphere is predominantly positive, or at the very least, neutral. Any negativity tends to be the exception rather than the rule, often isolated to just a few individuals. This typically makes real-world social experiences more about steering clear of the occasional negative person rather than seeking out the positive ones.

Conversely, social media often requires a deliberate effort to curate connections and find groups that are not marred by negativity. While my view has evolved from three years ago – I no longer see these platforms as being "full" of negativity – I maintain that approaching social media with the same expectations as standard social settings is more likely to result in negative experiences. The dynamics of online interaction inherently differ from face-to-face engagements, often amplifying the need for cautious and selective engagement and this is what can get the unsuspecting user in a tough spot.

@Grungie I believe it's crucial, especially in broader discussions about cyberbullying, to shift our focus from seasoned internet users, who possess a wide range of experience and tools to handle bullying attempts, to those who are less familiar with the online world. These users may not be as equipped to handle the intense scrutiny that can come with online interactions. Similarly, in real-life scenarios, anti-bullying efforts often prioritize younger individuals and those who may lack the social skills or resources to effectively manage such situations. While bullying can certainly affect anyone, it's important to acknowledge that the primary targets of cyberbullying are likely not frequenting tech forums or similar spaces. IMO, our efforts should be tailored to protect and empower these more vulnerable groups in the digital landscape.

Expanding NewSpace Ties

In a report by SpaceNews, the French Space Agency CNES is making significant strides in the aerospace sector by initiating plans to establish virtual hubs in Denver and Houston. This initiative, part of the Connect by CNES program, aims to foster innovation in space-related fields. The move reflects a deepening of the long-standing civil and military space collaboration between France and the United States. With the French NewSpace sector witnessing rapid growth, the establishment of these hubs marks a pivotal step in promoting cross-continental partnerships in aerospace technology.

Investment and Support for Innovation

The French government is demonstrating strong support for the NewSpace ecosystem, evidenced by the substantial investment through the France 2030 national plan. This initiative allocates 1.5 billion euros towards space technology development over the next five years. Connect by CNES, established in 2018, offers a comprehensive support system for startups, including technical expertise, funding, and networking opportunities with major contractors and space agencies. The focus now is on expanding these services internationally, starting with the United States.

Strategic International Collaborations

The delegation's recent meetings in Denver with Colorado-based companies, government agencies, and academic institutions set the stage for future collaboration. Upcoming events, like the National Space Foundation’s 39th Space Symposium, will further facilitate networking and partnership opportunities. The Connect by CNES hubs in Houston and Denver will respectively concentrate on human spaceflight, moon programs, military space, cybersecurity, and educational exchanges. This strategic approach not only aims to enhance the resiliency of the space sector in the face of geopolitical challenges but also to keep pace with the rapid innovation that characterizes today's NewSpace era. 

Through these initiatives, France and the United States are poised to lead in aerospace innovation, benefiting both nations' economies and contributing to the advancement of global space exploration and technology.

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Congressional Inquiry into Apple's Actions

Four United States lawmakers have taken a significant interest in the ongoing conflict between Apple and the messaging app Beeper Mini. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Mike Lee, along with Representatives Jerrold Nadler and Ken Buck, have penned a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ), urging an investigation into Apple's handling of Beeper Mini. They suggest that Apple's swift action to disable Beeper Mini, which had successfully reverse-engineered iMessage for Android use, might constitute anti-competitive behavior.

Background of the Beeper Mini Controversy

Beeper Mini gained attention for its innovative approach to making iMessage accessible to Android users. However, Apple quickly intervened, citing unauthorized access to its iMessage servers. This sparked debates on whether Apple's response was a protective measure or an anti-competitive tactic. The lawmakers' letter underscores concerns about Apple's dominance and its impact on consumer choice and technological innovation.

Antitrust Implications and Future Prospects

The letter, though a formal request, does not carry legal weight but highlights potential antitrust implications. It challenges whether Apple's actions align with current U.S. antitrust laws, which typically target behaviors like monopolizing a service or obstructing competitors such as WhatsApp or Telegram. While U.S. law doesn't currently mandate Apple to make its proprietary services like iMessage available on other platforms, the situation could evolve, especially with emerging regulations like the European Union's Digital Markets Act. Additionally, Apple's plans to introduce RCS messaging, enhancing communication between iPhone and Android devices, are noted as a positive development.

Despite the Congressional inquiry, the situation remains complex. The interpretation of antitrust laws in this context is not straightforward, and Apple's right to protect its proprietary services is a significant aspect of the debate. The outcome of this intervention by U.S. lawmakers could set a precedent for how tech companies manage cross-platform services and competition in the digital market.

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Swift Policy Reversal

Days following a policy update that permitted certain forms of nudity on the platform, Twitch has backtracked on its decision. The change initially allowed streamers to showcase "artistic" depictions of nudity, including illustrated or animated forms. However, the reversal now reinstates the ban on both real and fictional nudity on the platform, limiting content to only nudity present in Mature-rated games.

Community Feedback Leads to Change

This policy turnaround was largely influenced by the Twitch art community's reaction to the influx of AI-generated photorealistic nudes. The original policy update was meant to liberalize restrictions for art streamers, allowing greater freedom in their creative expressions. Despite this, the community expressed concerns about the sudden proliferation of explicit content under the guise of art, leading to Twitch's decision to roll back the changes.

Implications and Twitch's Response

Twitch's CEO, Dan Clancy, acknowledged the community's concerns in a blog post, explaining that the policy change was intended to support art streamers but had unintentionally opened the platform to questionable content. The reversal signifies Twitch's ongoing struggle to balance artistic freedom with content moderation. Despite the rollback, the platform's dress code policy remains unchanged, maintaining its rules on covering certain body parts for streamers. Twitch aims to ensure viewer consent for mature content and provide advertisers more control over ad placements. This decision reflects the challenges social media platforms face in moderating content that blurs the line between art and explicit material.

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Twitch Responds to Viral Stream with Policy Update

In light of a recent viral stream featuring an OnlyFans model, Twitch, the popular streaming platform, has revised its guidelines on sexual content. The platform's policy now encompasses broader forms of content, categorizing certain activities and depictions as "artistic nudity." This update follows a trend in the digital content world where platforms are continually refining their content moderation policies to balance creative expression with community standards.

Expanded Allowances in Content Guidelines

Twitch's updated guidelines now encompass a wider range of content under the umbrella of acceptable material, provided it's properly labeled. This includes content that emphasizes breasts, buttocks, or the pelvic region, even if the individual is fully clothed. Additionally, the new policy allows for the depiction of fictionalized nudity, body writing, and certain forms of erotic dances such as strip teases, with specific conditions on labeling and presentation. Interestingly, popular dances like twerking, grinding, and pole dancing are now permissible without special labeling. These changes reflect Twitch’s attempt to adapt to the evolving landscape of online content and expression.

Twitch's Ongoing Struggle with Sexual Content and User Feedback

Twitch has historically grappled with managing risqué content on its platform, as evidenced by past trends like the "hot tub meta." The recent viral stream has prompted Twitch to refine its rules, leading to these updated guidelines. The move has sparked varied reactions from the Twitch community, with discussions trending under the term "Artistic Nudity." Twitch is also seeking feedback for future policy revisions, highlighting their commitment to evolving their guidelines in response to community input and industry standards. The platform’s approach to managing nudity in gaming remains unchanged, with a ban on games that focus primarily on nudity or sexual content, but allowance for incidental nudity in games not centered around these themes.

As Twitch continues to navigate the challenges of moderating sexual content, these changes are a step towards clearer guidelines for creators and viewers, aiming for a balance between creative freedom and maintaining a safe, inclusive community.

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Do you have any plans for creating a new forum community?

Introduction to End-to-End Encryption

End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) is a system of communication where only the communicating users can read the messages. In principle, it prevents potential eavesdroppers – including telecom providers, Internet providers, and even the provider of the communication service – from being able to access the cryptographic keys needed to decrypt the conversation.

How End-to-End Encryption Works

• Encryption Process: When a message is sent, it's encrypted on the sender’s device and remains encrypted while it travels through the network. It only gets decrypted when it reaches the intended recipient's device.
• Key Management: The keys used for encryption and decryption are stored only on the endpoints, i.e., the communicating devices. Unlike other forms of encryption, the service provider doesn’t have access to these keys.
• Data Integrity: E2EE ensures that the data transferred remains confidential and unaltered during transit.

Importance of End-to-End Encryption

• Privacy and Security: E2EE provides a high level of privacy and security, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties to access the data being communicated.
• Protection Against Eavesdropping: It safeguards against eavesdropping from cybercriminals, governments, and other entities.
• Data Integrity: Ensures the integrity of the communication, guaranteeing that messages are not tampered with or altered.
• Trust in Digital Communication: Builds trust in digital communication channels, essential for sensitive conversations, be it in personal or professional contexts.

Applications of End-to-End Encryption

• Messaging Apps: Used in messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram to protect personal communications.
• Email Encryption: Services like ProtonMail offer E2EE for email.
• Data Storage: Cloud storage services use E2EE to secure data stored on their servers.

Challenges and Considerations

• Key Management: Managing cryptographic keys can be challenging for users without technical knowledge.
• Device Security: The security of the end devices is crucial since encryption keys are stored there.
• Legal and Ethical Concerns: E2EE can be a double-edged sword, sometimes hindering lawful interception of communications for security purposes.
• User Experience: Implementing E2EE can sometimes be at odds with user experience, balancing convenience and security.

Conclusion

End-to-End Encryption is a fundamental aspect of modern digital communication, offering robust security and privacy. While it presents some challenges and considerations, its importance in protecting user data and communication integrity cannot be overstated. As digital communication continues to evolve, the role of E2EE becomes increasingly significant in safeguarding privacy and security in the digital realm.

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Introduction

In the world of instant messaging, RCS (Rich Communication Services) texting and Apple's iMessage are significant players. While iMessage is exclusive to Apple devices, RCS aims to be the next-generation SMS for Android. Let's compare these two services to understand their differences and features.

RCS Texting: Overview

• Universal Standard: RCS is designed as a universal standard to replace traditional SMS and MMS on Android devices.
• Features
  • Rich media sharing (high-resolution photos, videos)
  • Typing indicators and read receipts
  • Group chats
  • Video calls and file sharing
• Internet-Based: Functions over a data connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).
• Carrier and Device Support: Requires support from mobile carriers and device compatibility.
• Cross-Platform Potential: Intends to work across all devices but is primarily focused on Android.

iMessage: Overview

• Apple Exclusive: Available exclusively on Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac).
• Features
  • End-to-end encryption for security
  • Rich media sharing, stickers, and Animoji
  • Read receipts and typing indicators
  • Group messaging and iCloud syncing
• Internet-Based: Uses internet connection for sending messages.
• Ecosystem Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Apple services and devices.
• No Carrier Limitations: Works independently of carrier support.

RCS Texting vs. iMessage: Key Differences

Platform Availability

• RCS: Potentially available on all Android devices, depending on carrier support.
• iMessage: Limited to Apple devices.

Security

• RCS: Currently lacks end-to-end encryption by default and requires additional settings to add.  Most devices are adding these by default now.
• iMessage: Offers end-to-end encryption, making it more secure.

Ecosystem and Integration

• RCS: Lacks the ecosystem integration like iMessage has with Apple devices.
• iMessage: Deeply integrated with Apple’s ecosystem, syncing across devices.

Carrier Dependence

• RCS: Relies on carrier support and adoption.
• iMessage: Independent of carriers, requiring only an internet connection.

Functionality

• Both offer similar functionalities like media sharing, read receipts, and group chats.
• iMessage has additional features like Animoji and better integration with other apps.

Conclusion

RCS Texting and iMessage, while serving similar purposes, cater to different audiences and ecosystems. RCS's goal is to revolutionize traditional SMS on Android with internet-powered features, making it more accessible and standardized across devices and carriers. iMessage, on the other hand, remains a feature-rich platform for Apple users, offering enhanced security and integration with the Apple ecosystem. The choice between the two largely depends on the devices you use and your preferences for security, ecosystem integration, and cross-platform communication.

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Introduction to iMessage

iMessage is Apple's messaging service, integrated into the Messages app on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices. It's known for its seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem and offers a range of features that go beyond traditional SMS.

Key Features of iMessage

• Rich Texting Experience: Send texts, photos, videos, voice messages, and a variety of other file types.
• End-to-End Encryption: Ensures secure communication, with messages only readable by the sender and recipient.
• Group Messaging: Create and manage group chats with various features like adding/removing members and naming groups.
• Animoji and Memoji: Create and use animated characters that mimic your facial expressions.
• Digital Touch and Handwriting: Send personalized drawings or handwritten messages.
• App Integration: Use third-party apps within iMessage to share content, play games, make payments, etc.
• Read Receipts and Typing Indicators: Know when your message is read and when someone is typing a response.

How iMessage Works

• Seamless Integration: iMessage is embedded in the Messages app and automatically detects if the recipient can receive iMessages.
• Data Usage: It uses an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) instead of the SMS network.
• Cross-Device Syncing: Messages sync across all Apple devices logged into the same Apple ID.

Setting Up iMessage

• Activation: Go to Settings > Messages on your iOS device and toggle on 'iMessage'.
• Apple ID Connection: Ensure your Apple ID is linked for cross-device syncing.
• Network Requirements: A stable internet connection is necessary for iMessage to function.

iMessage vs SMS/MMS

• SMS/MMS Limitations: Traditional SMS/MMS are limited to text and low-resolution images and rely on cellular networks.
• iMessage Advantages: Offers enhanced features, higher quality media sharing, and works over an internet connection.

iMessage Accessibility

• Exclusive to Apple Devices: Only available on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac.
• No Android or Windows Support: Not compatible with non-Apple devices.

Privacy and Security

• Encryption: Messages are encrypted end-to-end, enhancing privacy.
• No Data Collection: Apple does not collect message content for data analysis.

Conclusion

iMessage stands out as a powerful messaging tool within the Apple ecosystem, offering a wide array of features and secure communication. It greatly enhances the traditional texting experience, making it a preferred choice for Apple device users. While its exclusivity to Apple products limits its use to a certain user base, within that sphere, it offers an unmatched messaging experience.

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Introduction to RCS Texting

RCS (Rich Communication Services) texting is a modern communication protocol designed to enhance traditional SMS (Short Message Service) messaging with a host of new features. It's often referred to as the next generation of SMS, aiming to provide a more dynamic and interactive experience similar to what you'd find in instant messaging apps.

How RCS Texting Works

• Enhanced Features: RCS brings features like read receipts, typing indicators, high-resolution image and video sharing, group messaging, video calls, and more to regular text messaging.
• Internet-Based: Unlike SMS which relies on cellular networks, RCS messaging works over the internet. It requires a stable data connection (mobile data or Wi-Fi) to function optimally.
• Compatibility: RCS is designed to be universally compatible with mobile phones, similar to SMS. However, both the sender and receiver need to have RCS-enabled devices and messaging apps for the features to work.
• Carrier Support: It requires carrier support. Many carriers worldwide are gradually adopting RCS to provide an enhanced messaging experience.

Advantages of RCS Texting

• Rich Media Sharing: Share high-quality photos and videos directly through text messages.
• Enhanced Group Chats: Create group chats with features like adding or removing members, naming groups, and seeing who's typing.
• Read Receipts and Typing Indicators: Know when your message is read and when someone is typing a response.
• No Additional App Required: RCS integrates into your phone's default messaging app, eliminating the need for third-party messaging apps for rich features.

Setting Up RCS Messaging

• Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your device supports RCS. Most modern smartphones do.
• Carrier Support: Verify that your carrier supports RCS. You can check this information on your carrier’s website or by contacting customer service.
• Enable RCS in Messaging App: In your messaging app settings, look for Chat features or Advanced Messaging and enable it. The exact steps may vary depending on the phone and the app.

Limitations of RCS Texting

• Universal Adoption: Not all carriers and phones support RCS yet, which can limit its functionality.
• Data Usage: Since RCS relies on a data connection, it will use your data plan or Wi-Fi.
• Privacy and Security: Unlike some instant messaging apps, RCS does not currently offer end-to-end encryption by default, raising concerns about privacy and security. Many devices are starting to add encryption and also enabling it by default.

Conclusion

RCS texting is set to revolutionize the way we use traditional SMS by infusing it with the features of modern instant messaging. While it's still in the process of global adoption, RCS promises a future where text messaging is more interactive, media-rich, and in line with current communication trends. As more carriers and phones embrace RCS, it’s poised to become the new standard for mobile messaging.

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15 hours ago, Jason said:

If people aren't paying, then they are the product. 😀   This funny saying I saw posted on some college professor's office door, and it certainly rings true, and if it is true, then it's no loss to them to stay free.

This is the truth for sure! Although it seems to be a concept that people don't really like to justify when they find out that they are the product.

Rollout of Enhanced Encryption

Meta has commenced the rollout of default end-to-end encryption (e2e) for chats and calls in Facebook Messenger. This significant privacy enhancement, previously an optional feature since 2016, is now set to become the standard setting for all users. However, as Messenger boasts over a billion users globally, the update process is expected to be gradual. Loredana Crisan, head of Messenger at Meta, indicated that the full implementation could take several months. This phased rollout ensures a smooth transition to the enhanced security protocol for all users.

New Features and User Options

Alongside the default encryption, the update introduces new functionalities to Messenger. Users will now have the capability to edit messages for up to 15 minutes after sending and can opt for messages to disappear after being sent. These new features are designed to give users more control over their messaging experience. Furthermore, the update maintains compatibility with existing Messenger features, such as themes and custom reactions. A crucial aspect of the upgrade is the setup of a recovery method for users, ensuring that messages can be restored if a device is lost or changed.

Implications for Privacy and Regulation

The shift to default end-to-end encryption in Messenger represents a significant move towards enhanced user privacy. With this update, messages sent through Messenger are secure from external access, including from Meta itself, unless a user chooses to report a message. This change might pose challenges for regulatory authorities like Ofcom, which may find it more difficult to access message content.

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Confirmation of Government Surveillance on Push Notifications

Apple has recently acknowledged that foreign governments have been conducting surveillance on push notifications sent to both iPhone and Android smartphones. This revelation comes after the company was previously restricted by the U.S. federal government from disclosing such information. Apple, a proponent of transparency, has stated that with the exposure of this surveillance method, they will be updating their transparency reports to include these types of government requests. This move by Apple aligns with their long-standing commitment to user privacy and transparency in their operations.

Background and Discovery of the Surveillance

The issue of push notification spying first came to light following an investigation by Senator Ron Wyden, a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, who received a tip about the practice in 2022. Push notifications, which are sent through services like Apple’s Push Notification Service and Google’s Firebase Cloud Messaging, can be compelled by governments to be handed over by these companies. While Apple and Google have been able to notify users about other types of data requests, they were not allowed to disclose information about these specific government demands for push notification data. Senator Wyden has played a pivotal role in bringing this issue to the public's attention, leading to a change in the previously imposed secrecy requirements.

Implications and Future Reporting

With the public disclosure of this surveillance practice, Apple is now able to include such data in its annual transparency reports. These reports aim to inform users about the data Apple provides to governments and law enforcement agencies. Although these reports will not disclose the targets of the surveillance, they will provide insights into the extent and nature of the requests, including which countries are involved. Additionally, the public revelation of this practice raises important questions about what push notification data can reveal about a user, even when the content of messages, like those in end-to-end encrypted services like iMessage and WhatsApp, remains protected. Apple's move to include this data in transparency reports marks a significant step in informing the public about government surveillance practices and underscores the importance of privacy and security in digital communications.

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1 hour ago, ZandraJoi said:

In a perfect world, we would honor & accept each other. In a pure perfect world, there wouldn't be room for so many varying degrees of beliefs. People believe what they believe more from where they are from, than what is right & wrong. I'm Dutch so was raised Christian Reformed. If I was born in India, I'd most likely be a Buddhist or Hindu.

Many years ago, the term InterFaith was quite popular. I don't see it as much anymore. It was honoring each religion & people came to learn more; not to judge.

Sadly we are much better at building walls and drawing lines than we are at compromise and accepting the ways of others.

1 hour ago, ZandraJoi said:

I feel this will be neverending & they'll keep fighting. I wish people could be the "Why can't we all just get along?" Instead of one side having it, BOTH sides have it equally. Another option nobody has it. Let the Earth take reign. Yet another option have a neutral party, i.e. Switzerland, obtain it.

War is serious but sometimes they act like children where I just want to say, "Grow up!"

"If you keep doing what you are doing, you'll keep getting what you are getting."

This is true, with Israel's harsh stance against working with Hamas and Hamas's willingness to push violence to encourage political challenges, I don't see either side being effective at any meaning changes any day soon.  It is just an endless cycle it seems with the people that suffer often very much not in control on why it continues.

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Introducing the 'Pause' Feature for Comments

YouTube has rolled out a significant update to its comment moderation tools, introducing a 'Pause' feature that allows creators to temporarily stop new comments on their videos. This tool is designed to give creators more control over their content by halting the influx of new comments while keeping the existing ones visible. The new feature is aimed at helping creators manage their comments section more effectively, especially when it becomes challenging to keep up with the volume of incoming comments. This moderation option offers a middle ground between manually reviewing every comment and completely disabling the comments section.

Simplifying Moderation Settings for Creators

Alongside the 'Pause' feature, YouTube has also revamped its existing comment moderation settings to make them more user-friendly. The platform has simplified the language used in its settings, replacing the previous options like “Hold potentially inappropriate comments for review” and “Increase strictness” with straightforward choices: On, Pause, or Off. Additionally, when comments are enabled, creators can now select from different levels of moderation, including None (no moderation), Basic (moderation for potentially inappropriate comments), Strict (a broader range of comments held for review), and Hold All (all comments held for review). This simplification aims to make the moderation process more intuitive for creators.

Accessing the New Moderation Tools

Creators looking to utilize the new 'Pause' feature and other moderation settings can find them in the video-level comment settings. These are accessible on the watch page within the YouTube app, as well as in YouTube Studio on both mobile and desktop platforms. The introduction of these tools is part of YouTube's ongoing efforts to provide creators with more flexibility and control over their content and its interaction with the audience. The company is rolling out these features globally, with further updates and clarifications expected to be announced in due course.

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English was always mine.  I never did well with learning the English language (even though it is my only one) and I always struggled and forcing creativity on items/books/etc. that I was not interested in.  I always felt like I would have shined in English if it focused on Sci-Fi books and essays, but they were no where to be found.