chat
Latest
Google is working on end-to-end encryption for its Messaging app
It’s taken years, but Google today has announced that RCS messaging is now available globally — anyone with an Android phone using Google’s Messages app can take advantage of the feature. If you don’t recall, RCS stands for Rich Communications Services and is a major upgrade to the basic SMS features phones have had for years. RCS features include improved video and photo quality, seeing when chats are read, sending and receiving messages over WiFI, improved group chat capabilities and sending reactions to messages.
Discord adds stickers to liven up chats
Discord has added sticker packs to spice up chats, although you'll need to pay for at least some of them.
Steam's profanity filters put you in control of chat content
Steam's new chat filtering option allows you to define what words you don't want to see while using the platform.
Judge blocks US ban on WeChat app downloads
A judge has blocked the Commerce Department's attempt to ban WeChat downloads, citing First Amendment concerns.
Facebook gives Messenger users more reasons to use Rooms
When Facebook introduced Messenger Rooms in April, you didn't have a lot when it came to managing your group video chats through the Messenger app. That's changing with a new update.
WeChat user alliance sues Trump administration over threatened ban
An alliance of WeChat users is suing the Trump administration over an executive order that could ban the chat app in the US.
Instagram starts merging chats with Facebook Messenger
An Instagram update has begun the process of merging chats with Facebook Messenger, although it's not completely ready yet.
Discord is rebranding to shift away from gaming
It doesn't have a new name, but Discord is effectively rebranding away from being an app dedicated to helping gamers communicate with one another during a tense online match. Practically speaking, what the rebranding means for current and, more specifically, new Discord users is a "streamlined" onboarding experience and updated templates that make it easier to set up a server. "We will continue to take decisive action against white supremacists, racists and others who seek to use Discord for evil,” the company said.
Discord shuts down major 'Boogaloo' server over threats of violence
Discord has shut down the largest known 'Boogaloo' chat server over concerns members were inciting violence.
Twitter DMs will be easier to access in Android 11
Twitter DMs will be available from virtually anywhere in Android 11.
Signal adds a face blurring tool its secure messaging app
Signal has added a face-blurring feature to its app.
Google is working on end-to-end encryption for RCS texts in Messages
Google Messages code hints that plans are underway to secure RCS chats with end-to-end encryption.
Discord adds drop-in, drop-out video chats
Discord's new Server Video feature makes it easier to video chat on the platform.
Slack's revamped mobile app puts key features within easy reach
Slack has overhauled its Android and iOS apps with quicker access to DMs, mentions, and other features you often use away from your PC.
China arrested former Huawei staff for talking about Iran deal online
China arrested former Huawei staff for chatting about its Iran deal, showing just how zealously the country defends its tech giant.
WhatsApp claims spyware firm launched attacks with US servers
WhatsApp has accused NSO Group of launching its surveillance attacks from US servers despite claims to the contrary.
Facebook's latest app experiment is a 'private space' for couples
We’ve asked Facebook if there are plans for a wider release.
Facebook debuts standalone Messenger app on Mac and PC
Today, Facebook is bringing its Messenger app to desktop. You can now access Messenger -- including unlimited and free group video calls -- on MacOS and Windows. The desktop app will sync across mobile, offer notifications for new messages and support Dark Mode and GIFs.
Facebook removes Discover tab in Messenger to simplify chat
Do you spend your days browsing Facebook Messenger's Discover tab for bands, games and chatbots? No? You're not alone -- and Facebook is doing something about it. The social network has confirmed to TechCrunch that it's rolling out a Messenger redesign that axes the Discover tab, leaving just Chats and People. You'll also see People split into both active chatters and Stories, while Instant Games (to no one's surprise) and Transportation are gone from the chat composer's utility tray. Bots, games and other features aren't completely gone, but you will have to search for them.
Google search is showing invitations to private WhatsApp groups
Your private WhatsApp group might not be as private as you'd like. DW journalist Jordan Wildon has noticed that Google is indexing at least some WhatsApp group invitations in its search, making it possible to slip into groups that owners might not want to be public. While many of these are fairly innocuous, some include sensitive data. Motherboard discovered one group apparently aimed at UN-accredited non-governmental organizations where it was possible to see the list of all 48 participants, including their phone numbers.