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Tag: Apps

  • Google Maps vs Waze vs Apple Maps: Which is best?

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    Navigation apps have become an essential part of modern life. Whether you are commuting to work, running errands or exploring a new city, relying on accurate directions and real-time traffic updates can make all the difference. Over the past decade, Google Maps, Waze and Apple Maps have emerged as the dominant players in this space, each offering a distinct approach to navigation.

    While millions of people rely on these apps daily, choosing the right one can depend on a variety of factors, from interface design to privacy policies. In this article, we compare these three apps across usability, accuracy, features and data handling to help you determine which one best fits your needs.

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    What each app does best

    Google Maps is widely regarded as the all-rounder. It combines extensive mapping data with points of interest, public transit information, Street View, Live View AR and detailed business listings. Its versatility makes it a top choice for both daily commuters and travelers.

    Google Maps is a great way to explore the world with detailed routes, Street View, and real-time traffic insights. (OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP via Getty Images)

    Waze, on the other hand, is designed primarily for drivers. It thrives on community input, offering live updates about traffic jams, road hazards, accidents and even police presence. Since Google owns Waze, many Waze-style real-time alerts have now begun appearing directly inside Google Maps. While Waze still focuses on driving, this integration blurs the lines between the two apps.

    Apple Maps has made major strides in recent years. Once considered the underdog, it’s now a solid choice for iOS users. Its clean interface, privacy-focused design and seamless integration with Siri, CarPlay and Apple Watch make it a convenient pick for those fully in the Apple ecosystem.

    INSTAGRAM FRIEND MAP FEATURE SPARKS PRIVACY QUESTIONS

    Usability and interface

    When it comes to interface, each app approaches design differently.

    Google Maps provides a dense but intuitive layout, giving users access to multiple layers of information, including traffic, satellite imagery and public transit routes. Switching between driving, walking, biking and transit is straightforward, and the search functionality is robust, often displaying detailed business profiles, ratings, and hours of operation.

    Waze prioritizes active driving support. Its interface is visually bold, with clear alerts for traffic jams, accidents and road hazards submitted by other users. While some may find the screen slightly cluttered, the focus is entirely on driving efficiency, which makes sense given its target audience.

    Waze maps app on a phone

    Waze helps to put you on a faster route with live, community-driven alerts that help you dodge traffic jams and road hazards.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Apple Maps offers a minimalist, streamlined interface that emphasizes simplicity. Searching for locations, initiating navigation, and following turn-by-turn instructions is straightforward. The app works seamlessly with iOS features like Siri and CarPlay, providing a smooth and cohesive experience for Apple users.

    Navigation accuracy and performance

    Accurate routing and timely traffic updates are critical.

    Google Maps remains the most reliable for precise routing and travel time estimates. It combines AI-enhanced predictive routing with historical and live traffic data to suggest the best route. Its consistency holds strong across urban and rural areas alike.

    Waze is unmatched for real-time rerouting. Relying heavily on crowd-sourced reports, it often detects slowdowns or hazards before Google Maps does. However, it still struggles when offline or in areas with poor data coverage.

    Apple Maps has significantly improved its routing accuracy, especially in cities. Its traffic data is now crowd-sourced from millions of iPhones, processed on-device to protect privacy. In some rural or international regions, though, it can still lag behind Google Maps and Waze.

    Apple Maps offers smooth, privacy-focused navigation designed for seamless use with your iPhone and CarPlay. 

    Apple Maps offers seamless use with your iPhone and CarPlay for smooth and privacy-focused navigation.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    Features and ecosystem integration

    Beyond basic navigation, each app offers additional tools and integrations.

    Google Maps offers offline maps, Live View AR navigation, multi-stop routing, EV charger locations and indoor maps for airports and malls. Integration with Gmail, Calendar and Google Assistant creates a seamless travel experience.

    Waze remains focused on social and driving-specific features. You can report hazards or police sightings and even control Spotify, Audible or podcasts directly from the app without switching screens.

    Apple Maps leans into privacy and ecosystem benefits. Its “Look Around” feature rivals Street View, while EV routing, cycling paths and Siri integration make it ideal for Apple fans. Apple also uses anonymized “Look Around” imagery to train its AI models, but with strict privacy safeguards like blurring faces and plates.

    YOUR PHONE IS TRACKING YOU EVEN WHEN YOU THINK IT’S NOT

    Privacy and data handling

    How these apps handle your personal data matters more than ever.

    Google Maps collects detailed location and usage data to power personalization and advertising. That means better recommendations, but less privacy for users who prefer anonymity.

    Waze, also owned by Google, gathers anonymized driving data to enhance community reporting. Its functionality depends on sharing your location in real time, which is necessary for crowd-sourced accuracy.

    Apple Maps takes a different approach. It processes most data on-device, uses random identifiers instead of personal accounts and does not associate searches with your Apple ID. That makes it the most privacy-conscious option, though even Apple collects anonymized data for traffic and route improvements.

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    Kurt’s key takeaway

    There is no single “best” navigation app, and the right choice depends on your priorities. Google Maps is ideal if you want a feature-packed, versatile app that works well for a variety of transportation modes and travel scenarios. Its global coverage and rich data make it reliable for everyday use and exploration. Waze is best if your main concern is real-time driving efficiency. Its community-driven traffic alerts and dynamic rerouting help you avoid congestion and save time during daily commutes. Apple Maps suits users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem who value simplicity, clean design and privacy protections. It may not have as many features as Google Maps or the same real-time edge as Waze, but its seamless integration with iOS makes it convenient.

    Which navigation app do you rely on most for daily commuting, and why?  Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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  • Apple Took Down These ICE-Tracking Apps. The Developers Aren’t Giving Up

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    Legal experts WIRED spoke with say that the ICE monitoring and documentation apps that Apple has removed from its App Store are clear examples of protected speech under the US Constitution’s First Amendment. “These apps are publishing constitutionally protected speech. They’re publishing truthful information about matters of public interest that people obtained just by witnessing public events,” says David Greene, a civil liberties director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

    This hasn’t stopped the Trump administration from attacking the developers behind these ICE-related apps. When ICEBlock first rose to a top spot in Apple’s App Store in April, the Trump administration responded by threatening to prosecute the developer. “We are looking at him,” Bondi said on Fox News of ICEBlock’s Aaron. “And he better watch out.”

    Neither the White House nor ICE immediately responded to requests for comment.

    Digital rights researchers say that the situation illustrates the dangers when key platforms and communication channels are centrally controlled—whether directly by governments or by other powerful entities like big tech companies. Regardless of what is officially available through the Google Play store, Android users can sideload apps of their choosing. But Apple’s ecosystem has always been a walled garden, an approach that the company has long touted for its security advantages, including the ability to screen more heavily for malicious apps.

    For years, a group of researchers and enthusiasts have tried to create “jailbreaks” for iPhones to essentially hack their own devices as a way around Apple’s closed ecosystem. Recently, though, jailbreaking has become less common. This is partly the result of advances in iPhone security, but partly related to the trend in recent years of attackers exploiting complex chains of vulnerabilities that could potentially be used for jailbreaking for malware instead, particularly mercenary spyware.

    “The closed ecosystem motivation sort of dwindled as Apple added capabilities that previously required a jailbreak—like wallpapers, tethering, better notifications, and private mode in Safari,” says longtime iOS security and jailbreak researcher Will Strafach. “But this situation with ICE apps highlights the issue with Apple being the arbiter and single point of failure.”

    Stanford’s Pfefferkorn warns that while US tech companies are not state-controlled, they have in her view become “happy handmaidens” when it comes to “repressing free speech and dissent.”

    “It’s especially disappointing,” Pfefferkorn says, “coming from the company that brought us the Think Different ad campaign, which invoked MLK, Gandhi, and Muhammad Ali—none of whom would likely be big fans of ICE today.”

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    Reece Rogers, Lily Hay Newman

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  • Google launches its AI vibe-coding app Opal in 15 more countries | TechCrunch

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    Google is expanding access to Opal, its AI vibe-coding app, to 15 more countries. The app, which lets you create mini web apps using text prompts, is now available in Canada, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, Singapore, Colombia, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Panamá, Honduras, Argentina, and Pakistan.

    “When we opened up Opal to users in the U.S. we anticipated they might build simple, fun tools,” said Megan Li, a Senior Product Manager at Google Labs, in a blog post. “We didn’t expect the surge of sophisticated, practical and highly creative Opal apps we got instead. The ingenuity of these early adopters made one thing clear: we need to get Opal into the hands of more creators globally.”

    Opal works by getting users to enter a description of the app they want to make, after which the tool uses different Google models to do so. Once the app is ready, users can open the editor panel to view and customize the visual workflow of inputs, outputs, and generation steps. They can click any step to review or edit the prompt, or add new steps manually using Opal’s toolbar. Users can also publish their app to the web and share a link so others can test it with their own Google accounts.

    In addition to the expansion, Google also announced improvements coming to Opal.

    The tech giant says it has improved the debugging program but intentionally kept it no-code. Users can now run their workflow step by step in the visual editor or tweak specific steps in the console. Errors show up right where they happen to provide immediate context and eliminate guesswork.

    Google also says that it’s made significant improvements to Opal’s core performance. The company notes that previously it would take up to five seconds or more to create a new Opal. Now, it’s worked to speed that up to make it easier to get started. Plus, users can now run steps in parallel, allowing complex workflows with multiple steps to execute simultaneously.

    With the U.S. launch of Opal in July, Google joined a growing list of competitors including Canva, Figma, and Replit that are building tools to help nontechnical users design app prototypes without writing any code.

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    Aisha Malik

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  • Exclusive: Event startup Partiful wasn’t stripping GPS locations from user-uploaded photos

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    Social event planning app Partiful, which calls itself “Facebook events for hot people,” has firmly replaced Facebook as the go-to platform for sending party invitations. But what Partiful also has in common with Facebook is that it’s collecting a tsunami of user data, and Partiful could have done better at keeping that data secure.

    On Partiful, hosts can create online invitations with a retro, maximalist vibe, allowing guests to RSVP to events with the ease of ordering a salad on a touch-screen. Partiful aims to be user-friendly and trendy, propelling the app to #9 on the iOS App Store’s Lifestyle charts. Google called Partiful the “best app” of 2024. 

    Now, Partiful has evolved into a powerful Facebook-like social graph, easily mapping who your friends are and who your friends’ friends are, what you do, where you go, and all of your phone numbers.

    As Partiful grew more popular, some users became skeptical of the company’s origins. One New York City promoter announced that it was boycotting Partiful because its founders and some staff are former employees of Palantir, Peter Thiel’s data mining company, which produces the software that powers ICE’s master database for the Trump administration’s deportation crackdown.

    Given some of the speculation around the app, TechCrunch set up a new account and tested Partiful. We soon found that the app was not stripping the location data of user-uploaded images, including public profile photos.

    TechCrunch found it was possible for anyone, using only the developer tools in a web browser, to access raw user profile photos stored in Partiful’s backend database hosted on Google Firebase. If the user’s photo contained the precise real-world location of where it was taken, anyone else could have also viewed the precise coordinates of where that photo was taken.

    Almost all digital files, like the pictures you take on a smartphone, contain metadata, which includes information like the file size, when it was created, and by whom. In the case of photos and videos, metadata can include information about the kind of camera used and its settings, as well as the precise latitude and longitude coordinates of where the image was captured.

    The security flaw is problematic because anyone using Partiful could have revealed the location of where a person’s profile photo was snapped. Some Partiful user profile photos contained highly granular location data that could be used to identify the person’s home or work, particularly in rural areas where individual homes are easier to distinguish on a map.

    It’s common practice for companies that host user images and videos to automatically remove metadata upon upload to prevent privacy lapses like this. 

    TechCrunch verified the bug ourselves by uploading a new Partiful profile photo that we had previously captured from outside of the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco, which contained the photo’s precise location. When we checked the metadata of the photo stored on Partiful’s server, it still contained the exact coordinates of where the image was taken down to a few feet.

    TechCrunch’s profile photo containing GPS coordinates uploaded to Partiful.Image Credits:TechCrunch
    a photo showing a Google Maps dot where the photo of outside Moscone West was taken.
    The location of where our Partiful profile photo was taken on a Google Map.Image Credits:TechCrunch

    After discovering the security flaw, TechCrunch alerted Partiful co-founders Shreya Murthy and Joy Tao by email, as Partiful does not have a public means for reporting security flaws. TechCrunch shared a link to a Partiful user’s raw profile photo containing that user’s real-world location at the time the photo was taken, a residential address in Manhattan.

    Tao told TechCrunch on Friday that the vulnerability was “already on our team’s radar, and was recently prioritized as an upcoming fix.” 

    Partiful initially provided a timeline to fix the flaw by “next week,” but given the sensitivity of the data involved, Partiful fixed the bug by Saturday at TechCrunch’s request.

    TechCrunch confirmed Saturday that metadata was removed from existing user-uploaded photos. The profile photo that we uploaded with our real-world location also had the metadata removed. 

    Partiful disclosed the security lapse in a tweet shortly before the publishing of this story.

    When asked by TechCrunch if Partiful has the technical means, such as logs, to determine if there was any direct or bulk access to user profile photos stored in its database, Partiful spokesperson Jess Eames said this was “still under investigation but we have found no evidence of this yet.”

    Eames said the company “regularly perform security reviews with experts in the field, not just as a one-time action but as part of our ongoing processes.” Partiful did not provide TechCrunch with the name of the experts when asked.

    Partiful has raised over $27 million from investors since its founding in 2022, including a $20 million Series A funding round led by Andreessen Horowitz. TechCrunch asked Partiful’s co-founders if they had commissioned a security review of their product before launch, but would not say.

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    Zack Whittaker, Amanda Silberling

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  • Educational Apps To Create Digital Portfolios

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    Digital portfolios help students document growth, reflect on learning, and share progress over time. The tools below work across grade levels (K–20) and disciplines.

  • Seesaw

    Best for: PreK–8  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free tier; school/district plans available

    Student-friendly portfolios with voice, video, drawings, and family access. Easy teacher feedback and timelines of learning. Teachers can assign activities, track growth, and share student progress with parents securely.

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  • SpacesEDU

    Best for: Grades 6–12 & higher ed  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free basic; advanced district features available

    Competency- and standards-aligned portfolios with goal-setting, evidence uploads, and teacher/peer feedback. SpacesEDU supports reflection prompts, goal tracking, and parent communication, making it a strong modern replacement for traditional binders.

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  • Google Sites

    Best for: Middle school–college  |  Platform: Web  |  Price: Included with Google Workspace for Education

    Simple site-style portfolios that embed Docs, Slides, and Drive files; easy to publish privately or publicly. Often used for capstone or teaching portfolios, it integrates well with Google Classroom and requires no design experience.

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  • Microsoft OneNote Class Notebook

    Best for: All levels, especially secondary/higher ed  |  Platform: Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android  |  Price: Included with Microsoft 365 Education

    Process portfolios with sections for each student, content libraries, and collaboration spaces; supports ink, audio, files, and feedback. It’s effective for digital journaling and iterative reflection across subjects and terms.

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  • Canva for Education

    Best for: Grades 5–college  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free for eligible K–12; higher-ed options available

    Students design polished portfolio pages, resumes, and showcases with templates; easy sharing and export. Canva supports collaboration, commenting, and multimedia uploads, allowing visual and academic work to coexist seamlessly.

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  • Book Creator

    Best for: K–8 (scales up for creative courses)  |  Platform: Web, iPad  |  Price: Free tier; paid upgrades

    Multimedia “book” portfolios blending text, images, audio, and video—great for storytelling and project collections. Teachers can organize class libraries and encourage peer feedback within a safe, moderated digital space.

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  • Notion (Education)

    Best for: High school & college  |  Platform: Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free Plus plan for students/teachers; org plans available

    Flexible workspace for artifact curation, reflection, goal tracking, and public portfolio pages. Notion is excellent for self-directed learners managing independent research, project-based courses, or professional growth evidence.

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  • Wakelet

    Best for: All levels  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free

    Curate links, media, and files into collections with written reflections—useful for research and showcase portfolios. Educators can create templates for students to collect work samples, citations, and media artifacts in one place.

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  • Padlet

    Best for: K–12 & early college  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free tier; classroom/school plans available

    Visual boards for collecting artifacts, reflections, and peer feedback; quick to set up for class-wide portfolios. Great for visual learners and quick reflection activities, allowing teachers to moderate and comment on submissions.

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  • Google Classroom + Drive

    Best for: All levels using Google Workspace  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Included with Google Workspace for Education

    Organize artifacts over time via assignments and Drive folders; students can compile work into Google Sites for final portfolios. Teachers can track skill development, attach rubrics, and guide reflection using shared templates.

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  • Canvas ePortfolios

    Best for: Secondary & higher ed using Canvas LMS  |  Platform: Web  |  Price: Included with Canvas

    Students create ePortfolios (a.k.a. Folio) to collect coursework and experiences; supports sharing beyond the LMS. Many universities use Canvas portfolios for capstones, internships, and program-wide learning outcome assessment.

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  • Adobe Express for Education

    Best for: Middle school–college  |  Platform: Web, iOS, Android  |  Price: Free K–12 licenses; additional Creative Cloud options

    Create portfolio pages and multimedia stories with templates; publish or export for showcases and applications. Students can integrate video, audio, and text for professional-looking creative portfolios that demonstrate digital literacy.

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  • OpenAI’s New Sora App Lets You Deepfake Yourself for Entertainment

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    On Tuesday, OpenAI released an AI video app called Sora. The platform is powered by OpenAI’s latest video generation model, Sora 2, and revolves around a TikTok-like For You page of user-generated clips. This is the first product release from OpenAI that adds AI-generated sounds to videos. For now, it’s available only on iOS and requires an invite code to join.

    “You are about to enter a creative world of AI-generated content,” reads an advisory page displayed during the app sign-up process. “Some videos may depict people you recognize, but the actions and events shown are not real.”

    OpenAI is betting that creating and sharing AI deepfakes will become a popular form of entertainment. Whether it’s your friends, influencers, or random strangers online, Sora frames generating deepfake videos as a form of scrollable fun. The app’s main feed is an endless serving of bite-sized AI slop featuring human faces.

    During the set up process, users are given the option to create a digital likeness of themselves by saying a few numbers aloud and turning their head around as the app records. “The team worked very hard on character consistency,” wrote OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in a blog about Sora’s release.

    People have the ability to choose who can use their digital likeness in Sora videos. It can be set to everyone, or limited to just yourself, those you approve, or mutual connections on the app. Whenever someone generates a video using your likeness, even if it’s just sitting in their drafts, you can see the full clip from your account’s page.

    First Impressions

    Many of the most-liked videos on my “For You” feed on Tuesday afternoon featured Altman’s likeness. One AI-generated clip depicted the OpenAI CEO stealing a graphics processing unit from Target. When the character gets caught, a voice that sounds like Altman pleads with a security guard to let him keep the GPU so that he can build AI tools.

    Many of the videos generated during WIRED’s testing included rough edges and other errors. But Sora makes it incredibly seamless to create personalized deepfakes that often look and sound convincingly real.

    To incorporate the likenessnesses of different people in your videos, just tap on their faces on Sora’s generation page and add them as “cameos.” Then, enter a simple prompt, like “fight in the office over a WIRED story.”

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    Reece Rogers

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  • Proton Pass Finally Has the Goods to Compete With Other Password Managers

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    You can rename your vaults, but you can also assign them one of a few dozen icons, as well as choose from a handful of color presets. It’s a small addition, but a little color-coding goes a long way in finding what you need at a glance.

    Beyond logins, you can also generate and store email aliases, similar to NordPass. It’s a standard feature, even if you don’t subscribe. Free users are capped at 10 aliases, while paying users can create as many as they want.

    It’s not just a fake email tied to a real one. You can set up aliases like that, but Proton allows you to forward emails to multiple addresses, create catch-all addresses, and even reply directly from the web app. I appreciate the activity log most, though. Proton automatically creates contacts for everyone who interacts with your alias, and you can block spammy addresses without ever opening your email client.

    No Desktop App

    Proton Pass via Jacob Roach

    Proton Pass was originally available only as a browser extension, but it now has apps for Windows, macOS, and even Linux, as long as you’re on a Fedora- or Debian-based distribution. I mainly used Pass in the browser, not only because it’s convenient but also because the extension is available on just about everything—Chromium-based browsers have access, and there are separate extensions for Firefox, Safari, and Brave.

    The browser app has everything you need, and it works a treat when it comes to password capture and autofill. Proton occasionally asked me to save a password a second time after initially dismissing a capture notification. But outside of that small hiccup, I never encountered an issue with autofill for forms, logins, or credit cards.

    Inside the app, you have a few features that aren’t available through the extension. The key feature is Pass Monitor, which is Proton’s security watchdog feature. It’ll show you weak passwords, accounts where you can enable 2FA, and critically, accounts that have been victims of a data breach. If you want to go further, you can turn on Proton Sentinel, as well.

    Pass Monitor is great, but breach notifications have a problem. By default, Proton only monitors the email associated with your Proton account. If you’re importing passwords from another app, as I did, and you have different emails, those aren’t a part of the monitoring by default. And Proton doesn’t tell you that. You have to click into breach details and manually add addresses.

    Proton Pass Review Finally Standing Tall

    Proton Pass via Jacob Roach

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    Jacob Roach

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  • 10 iOS 26 tricks that help you get more out of your iPhone

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    IOS 26 has arrived, bringing a mix of practical upgrades and fun new features that make your iPhone smarter and easier to use. Updating only takes a few minutes, and it ensures you get the latest tools along with Apple’s newest security fixes.

    From smarter spam filters in Messages to custom alarm snooze times and even polls in group chats, iOS 26 is packed with ways to simplify your day. Here’s how to install iOS 26 and start exploring its best features right away.

    5 PHONE SETTINGS TO CHANGE RIGHT NOW FOR A SAFER SMARTPHONE

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    Updating to iOS 26 takes just a few minutes. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    How to update your iPhone to iOS 26

    Updating to iOS 26 takes just a few minutes, and it ensures you get the latest features and security fixes. Make sure your iPhone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi before you start.

    Follow these steps:

    • Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
    • Tap General.
    • Select Software Update.
    • If iOS 26 is available, tap Upgrade to iOS 26.
    • Click Update Now.
    • Enter your passcode if asked, then agree to the terms.
    • Wait for the download and installation to finish. Your iPhone will restart with iOS 26.
    Steps to update iPhone with iOS 26

    Your phone will restart with the new update after following the process. ( )

    iOS 26 compatible devices:

    IOS 26 works on a wide range of iPhones, from the iPhone 11 series through the latest iPhone 17 lineup. Compatible models include:

    IPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).

    1) Smarter spam message detection

    Spam texts arrive at the worst times. IOS 26 filters these unwanted messages into a separate folder, keeping your main inbox clean. Here’s how to use this feature:

    • Open the Messages app.
    • Click the horizontal lines in the upper right of the screen
    • Go to the Unknown Senders folder.
    • Review texts moved there automatically.
    • Click the right arrow and mark as known or delete the spam.

    You can check the “Unknown Senders” folder anytime, mark trusted contacts or delete the clutter without ever being disturbed by lock screen notifications.

    Steps to mark as known or delete the spam in unknown senders folder

    Users are also able to instantly share location via Maps.  ( )

    2) Instantly share your location in Maps

    IOS 26 makes it simple to send your location without even opening the Maps app. Here’s how:

    • Touch and hold the Maps icon on your Home Screen.
    • Tap Send My Location.
    • From there, you can choose how to share it. AirDrop works best if the person is nearby, while Messages lets you send it instantly to friends or family anywhere.

    This shortcut removes the hassle of digging through menus and makes sharing directions effortless.
     

    Steps to instantly share your location in Maps

    The new update also allows users to sort and view call history by contact. ( )

    3) View call history by contact

    No more endless scrolling. Now you can quickly see every incoming, outgoing and missed calls in one organized list.

    • Open the Phone app.
    • Click the search icon.
    • Type the contact’s name and click the search icon. 
    • Select the contact’s name.
    Steps to view call history by contact

    New updates make it easier to view all calls with one person at a glance. ( )

    • Select Call History
    • There you will see all calls associated with that person.

    This makes it easy to check all your calls with one person at a glance, without scrolling through your entire log.

    Steps to view call history by contact

    Specific text can also now be selected in a text message. ( )

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    4) Select specific text in a message

    Sometimes you only need one detail instead of the entire message bubble. Here’s how to grab it:

    • Open the Messages app.
    • Long-press the message you want.
    • Tap Select from the menu.
    • Drag the selection handles to highlight just the part you need.
    • Click the right arrow > to choose to copy, look up, translate, search web, speak or share it instantly.

    It’s a quick way to pull out only the detail you need, whether that’s an address, a code or just a single word.

    Steps to select specific text in a message

    The new update permits users to disable “tap recents to call.”  ( )

    5) Disable “Tap Recents to Call”

    Accidental calls can be embarrassing. IOS 26 lets you turn this off, so tapping a number in Recents won’t instantly dial; you’ll have to press the call button on purpose. Here’s how to toggle off or disable the feature:

    • Open Settings.
    • Scroll down and tap Apps.
    • Choose Phone.
    • Toggle off Tap Recents to Call.

    Now your call log stays drama-free. Tapping a number in Recents won’t instantly start a call anymore. You’ll need to press the call button on purpose. That means no more accidentally ringing your boss when you just wanted to double-check the number.

    EVEN WITH TRUMP’S TARIFF BLESSING, APPLE HIKES IPHONE PRICES

    Steps to disable "Tap Recents to Call"

    The above illustration features steps to disable “Tap Recents to Call” in the Settings App. ( )

    6) Customize alarm snooze options

    Not a fan of the default 9-minute snooze? IOS 26 lets you set the interval that actually matches your morning routine. Follow these steps to adjust it:

    • Open the Clock app.
    • Tap the Alarms tab.
    • Select an existing alarm (or tap + to create one).
    • Tap Snooze Duration. 
    • Choose your snooze time from 1 to 15 minutes.
    • Tap Save.

    Your mornings become more manageable, whether you’re grabbing a quick 5-minute reset or easing into the day with a longer break.

    Steps to customize alarm snooze options

    The above illustration shows steps to customize alarm snooze options in Clock App. ( )

    7) Get a dirty lens warning

    Nothing ruins a photo faster than a smudged lens. With iOS 26, you can turn on Lens Cleaning Hints, so your iPhone warns you before you take a blurry shot. Here’s how:

    • Open Settings.
    • Scroll down and tap Camera.
    • Find Lens Cleaning Hints.
    • Toggle the switch on.

    Now, when your camera detects smudges or haze, iOS 26 will display an on-screen hint in the Camera app, reminding you to “clean the camera lens“ before taking your shot.

    Steps to get Get a dirty lens warning

    Here are steps to get a dirty lens warning in Settings App. ( )

    8) See estimated charging time

    Ever wonder how long it will take to fully charge your iPhone? IOS 26 now shows you an estimated charging time so you can plan your day better. Here’s how to view it:

    • Plug your iPhone into a charger.
    • Wake your phone, and the Lock Screen will display the estimated time until fully charged.
    • For more details, open Settings.
    • Tap Battery.
    • Look for the Estimated Full Charge Time under the charging status.

    This makes it easy to tell whether you’ll be at 100% before leaving the house or if you should pack a charger for later.

    Steps to see estimated charging time

    This makes it easy to tell whether you’ll be at 100% before leaving the house or if you should pack a backup charger. ( )

    9) Make the clock on your Lock Screen bigger

    Want your time display to stand out more? IOS 26 lets you adjust the size of the clock on your Lock Screen for a bolder look. Here’s how:

    • Long-press on your Lock Screen.
    • Tap Customize at the bottom.
    • Use the pull handle on the bottom right to adjust the size.
    • Tap Done to save your changes.

    On certain wallpapers, the clock even has a depth effect, slipping behind the subject in your photo. With Photo Shuffle wallpaper, the clock can adjust dynamically, and it also stretches in areas like the Notification Center, giving your iPhone a fresh and lively feel.

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    Steps to make the clock on your Lock Screen bigger

    Users can also modify their clock appearance. ( )

    10) Create a poll in iMessage

    Can’t decide what color to paint your walls, where to eat or which movie to watch? IOS 26 lets you create quick polls right inside group chats so everyone can vote. Here’s how:

    • Open the Messages app.
    • Enter a conversation (this works in group chats or individual messages).
    • Tap the + button next to the text box.
    • From the pop-up menu, select Polls.
    • Tap each choice field and type your options (add more choices by typing into the next blank field).
    • When you’re done, tap Send (Up arrow).

    Now your friends or coworkers can vote directly in the chat, and you can decide whether to follow the results or just order what you were craving anyway.

    Steps to create a poll in iMessage

    Users can also now create a polls for others in iMessage. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    IOS 26 goes beyond security patches; it’s about convenience and personalization. You can finally adjust your snooze to match your mornings, keep your inbox free from spam, see how long charging will take and even get a heads-up if your camera lens is dirty before snapping a shot. These small but meaningful updates add up to a smoother iPhone experience.

    Which iOS 26 feature are you most excited to try first, polls in iMessage, spam filters or something else entirely? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com/Contact

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved. 

    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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  • Best ways to track your meds on iPhone and Android

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    Keeping track of medications and medical history can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re caring for yourself and a spouse. Olaf from Valley Stream, New York, put it this way:

    “I’m 86, just switched to iPhone. Have trouble finding a system to keep mine and my wife’s medications and medical histories. It seems we need these for each wellness visit. Appreciate your easy suggestions.”

    Olaf’s experience is common. Many people struggle to keep their health details organized, especially when doctor visits pile up. The good news? Both iPhone and Android phones come with simple, secure tools that make it easier than ever to track prescriptions, reminders and important health information.

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    APPLE WATCH SERIES 11 GETS FDA-CLEARED ALERT FOR ‘SILENT KILLER’ CONDITION

    Both iPhone and Android phones offer built-in health apps that can track prescriptions, reminders and medical details in one secure place. (Silas Stein/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    Use the built-in Health apps

    iPhone Health app

    Your iPhone already has a Health app installed, and it gives you two ways to manage important health details:

    Medical ID (for emergency info only)

    This section is designed so that first responders and doctors can see your critical health details from the lock screen if needed. Adding medications here does not create reminders. It’s best for storing:

    • Medications you’re taking
    • Allergies
    • Conditions
    • Emergency contacts
    • Doctors

    How to set up Medical ID:

    • Open the Health app (white icon with a red heart).
    • Tap your profile photo in the top right.
    • Select Medical ID
    • Scroll down to where you see Medications, Allergies, Emergency Contacts, Conditions, and click Add 
    • Add medications, conditions, allergies, doctors and emergency contacts.
    • Then tap Done in the upper right
    • Turn on Show When Locked so this info is visible on your lock screen in case of an emergency.

    Everything you add stays private and encrypted, but you can choose to share details with your doctor or family.

    iPhone medications feature (for reminders & tracking)

    If you want your iPhone to remind you to take your meds and let you log each dose, you’ll need to use the dedicated Medications feature (introduced in iOS 16):

    • Open the Health app.
    • Tap Browse.
    • Click Medications.
    • Scroll down and tap Add a Medication.
    • Enter the details in the search bar or scan the pill bottle with your iPhone’s camera by clicking the camera icon next to the search bar.
    • Choose the Medication Type and click Next. 
    • Add the medication strength and choose Unit. A blue check will appear next to the unit, then click Next.
    • Set the schedule and dosage by first adding “When will you take this?  Then add “At what time?” and the“Duration”. Then tap Next at the bottom of the screen.
    • Choose the Shape of the medication by tapping one of the examples, and then tap Next at the bottom of the screen.
    • Choose colors under Shape and Background, then tap Next. 
    • Review details. You can add Optional Details like Display Name or Notes.  Then, click Done. 

    Now, you’ll get notifications on your iPhone and can track whether you’ve taken your meds. The alert will give the option to click, “Taken” or “Skipped”. If you have more than one medication listed you can tap “Log All as Taken.”  Once you click your selection go ahead and click Done. 

    SMART TECH TOOLS THAT HELP YOU AVOID DANGEROUS FALLS

    Samsung phone open to the health app.

    Samsung Health and third-party apps like Medisafe or MyTherapy help Android users manage medications and set refill reminders. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

    Android: Samsung Health app

    Samsung Health comes pre-installed on most Samsung phones. It works as a standalone tracker for fitness, sleep and even medication, no extra apps required.

    How to set up the Samsung Health app 

    Settings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer 

    • Open the Samsung Health app (often pre-installed, or download from the Google Play Store).
    • Tap Get Started or Start and allow the necessary permissions.
    • Click Continue.
    • Scroll down and select Medications.
    • Click Get Started.
    • Under Add medication, click Enter medication name.
    • Enter the Medication, Type and Strength
    • Then tap Next 
    • You can choose the shape from the icons provided, upload an image or take an image from the options, or tap Skip 
    • Next, you can choose a color , then tap Next 
    • Then, set schedule, Every day, Every X days, Every week, Every month or As Needed.
    • Then click Set time and dosage, Once, twice , 3 times, 4 times, 5 times or Custom.  Then tap Done. 
    • Then tap Next.
    • Now to Review medication. Under Quantity, you can add the Number of remaining pills. Then, under it you can enable Refill reminder. Hit Save.

    Steps to set up the Samsung Health app (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

    • Under this next section, when you add medications, they’ll be checked for possible interactions with other medications you take, as well as with the lifestyle factors. If any of these factors, such as tobacco, cannabis, alcoho or grapefruit juice, don’t apply to you, you can turn them off so you won’t receive warnings about them. Then tap Next.
    • Next, medications that contain allergens like peanuts, milk and eggs can potentially cause allergic reactions. They’ll let you know if a medication you’ve added contains an ingredient that could cause an allergic reaction. You can click Add new allergy or click the + sign next to Peanut Family, Milk Thistle or Egg and Egg Derivatives. Then click Done.
    • A pop-up will appear at the bottom that reads Medication added. Add another? Click OK.

    Use medication reminder apps

    To track meds, non-Samsung Android users usually need a third-party app like:

    • Medisafe (very popular, integrates with Wear OS watches).
    • MyTherapy (simple reminder app with symptom logging).

    For a focused tool just for meds, these 3 apps work on both iPhone and Android:

    1) MediSafe Pill Reminder

    Add medications, dosages and schedules. Get reminders when it’s time to take them. You can even manage more than one family member in the app.

    • Download MediSafe from the App Store or Google Play.
    • Tap Get started 
    • Open the app and tap “Add Med.”
    • Enter the medication name in the search bar, and then when it appears, tap it. 
    • Select “What form is the med?” such as pill, injection, solution, drops, inhaler, powder or other.
    • Enter, “What are you taking it for?”
    • Enter, “How often do you take it?
    • Enter, “When do you need to take the dose? Then, click Next. 
    • You are almost done. Would you like to: Set treatment duration, Get refill reminders? Add instructions? or Change the med icon?
    • If not, click Save. 
    • A pop-up screen will say, “You have successfully added medication”. 

    With these steps, you’ll never miss a dose, and you can even track medications for your spouse in the same account.

    2) MyTherapy

    • Download MyTherapy from the App Store or Google Play.
    • Open the app.
    • Tap Get started.
    • Tap Accept all or Go to settings 
    • It will ask you, “To start with what should we call you?” Add a nickname.  or Skip. You’ll be asked to add your Gender, Year of Birth or you can just skip that.
    • Then click “I’m ready!”
    • Tap Medications.
    • Click Search by name 
    • Type the medication in the search bar.  Then, click your medication. 
    • Choose “How often do you take this medication? Once daily, twice, daily, On demand (no reminder needed). Then tap Next. 
    • Add “When would you like to be reminded? Time and Dose. 
    • Enable next to where it says, “Enable Critical Alerts”.
    • Tap Next. 
    • Next, you will be asked, “Do you want to get reminders to refill your inventory?” If yes, enable next to where it says Remind Me. 
    • Next select your Current Inventory and Remind me when. 
    • Click Save. 
    • It will ask you, What do you take this for? Make a selection and then click Add. 
    • Then scroll down to the bottom of the page and click All set!
    • It may ask you to click Allow notifications. 

    Both apps are free to start, simple to use and highly rated, making them great choices for organizing medications and health records.

    HOW TO TELL IF YOUR SAMSUNG GALAXY TABLET HAS BEEN HACKED

    A person filling their pill dispenser.

    Smart pill dispensers add another layer of safety by automatically releasing the right dose at the right time, reducing risky mistakes. (Armin Weigel/picture alliance via Getty Images)

    Smart pill dispensers prevent risky mistakes

    Even with phone apps and reminders, some people prefer a hands-off solution. That’s where smart pill dispensers come in. These devices automatically release the right dose at the right time, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting or double-dosing.

    For older adults, this can reduce dizziness or grogginess from medication mistakes, issues that often raise fall risks. Dispensers also provide peace of mind for caregivers who want to be sure their loved one is staying on track.

    What to look for in a smart dispenser:

    • Built-in reminders (lights, sounds or phone alerts)
    • Dose tracking so you can confirm meds were taken
    • Caregiver notifications if a dose is missed

    Smart dispensers cost more than apps, but they add an extra layer of safety and independence for anyone juggling multiple prescriptions. 

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    Staying on top of medications can feel like a full-time job, but you don’t have to manage it alone. With the built-in tools on iPhone and Android, plus easy-to-use apps, you can take control of your health with just a few taps. These features give you peace of mind, help you stay consistent and make doctor visits less stressful. For those who need extra support, smart pill dispensers add another layer of safety. They take the guesswork out of managing multiple prescriptions and provide reassurance for both you and your loved ones. By combining apps, reminders, and devices, you can create a system that fits your lifestyle and keeps your health details organized.

    Would you be more likely to rely on your phone’s built-in health app or a dedicated reminder app to stay on top of your medications? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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  • For One Glorious Morning, a Website Saved San Francisco From Parking Tickets

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    He suspected this absurd-seeming pattern was due to limitations baked into the software used by parking control officers. Whatever its reason was for existing, the pattern of sequential ticket IDs, paired with parking officers likely claiming batches of ticket numbers, meant Walz was able to track their routes by plotting each parking ticket on a map as soon as it was entered into the system. A car owner could look at the activity of the officers currently out on patrol and see if any of them were slowly descending on their neighborhood.

    Last year, parking officials in San Francisco issued over a million tickets within city limits, which amounted to over $100 million in fines for car owners. “I actually don’t have a car, but I have plenty of friends that talk about it,” says Walz. Like most costs in San Francisco, these tickets can quickly add up. For example, forgetting to move your car during the weekly street sweeping—an error my household has made more than once—will cost you $90 every time.

    Dude, Where’s My Parking Cop?

    The website’s live updates were pulled from the city government’s website and visualized on an Apple Map. “Find My Parking Cops” tracked the routes of individual parking control officers, giving them each unique visual identifiers, as well as their cadence of tickets.

    On Tuesday, for example, the site displayed one officer seemingly starting their shift around 10:30 am and handing out 35 tickets over the next few hours as they patrolled a neighborhood in Lower Pacific Heights. The citations logged were primarily for expired meters, which cost $107 per ticket, and not having a residential permit, which cost $108 per ticket. In total, the fines racked up by that one officer over a few hours amounted to almost $4,000.

    Who’s handing out the most tickets each week? Walz included a leaderboard on the website that ranked just how much in fines each officer handed out. While officers were only identified on the map by a number and their initials, their cumulative ticket cost was tracked. When WIRED was last able to check Walz’s website on Tuesday, the top fine giver had issued 157 tickets so far, handing out over $16,000 in fees for violations.

    Prior to “Find My Parking Cops,” Walz created another San Francisco-specific website. This one used a phone, placed on a street corner in the Mission district, to identify what songs people were listening to in public. He then uploaded a live feed of the songs, captured and identified through the Shazam app, onto the “Bop Spotter” website. It provided a little peek into what neighborhood residents were bumping at the time while also slyly nodding at the abundance of surveillance in the city. He’s also previously built a site, called “IMG_0001,” to surface old YouTube clips uploaded by everyday people in the platform’s early days. Those grainy, private videos stand in stark contrast to the stuff that dominates the platform today.

    The parking ticket tracker was another side project for Walz. “I worked in my free time on the weekends the last few weeks to make it happen,” he says.

    While Walz’s websites sometimes come with a dose of social commentary, he didn’t envision this project as making some kind of grand, sweeping statement about parking tickets or what it means to drive in 2025. Rather, it’s another entry in his repertoire of cool websites powered by unique data sources.

    “I’m not ‘pro’ parking cop. I’m not ‘anti’ parking cop,” says Walz. “It’s just data I was able to unearth, and I thought it would be cool to visualize it.”

    And now it’s gone. Representatives for Apple did not respond to immediate requests for comment. I reached out to Walz after the city’s data feed was cut off, but he didn’t pick up.

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  • Google revamps its Play Store with AI features and more | TechCrunch

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    Google said Tuesday it’s making a number of changes to how the Play Store looks and functions in an effort to better personalize the store to its users and increase engagement. Among the new features is a redesigned Apps tab, a new Play Games experience, a new tab focused on your interests, and other features that leverage Gemini AI.

    The update builds on other recent additions that aim to make the Play Store more of a destination — like a tab that shows you where you can watch your favorite shows or Collections, which organizes your favorite apps and games into areas like shop, watch, and listen, Google Play Games VP and General Manager Aurash Mahbood explained to TechCrunch in a press briefing.

    “For over 4 billion users, Google Play is an important gateway to discovering apps, games, books, movies, TV, and timely cultural content, and our ambition is to help all users engage with the apps and content that fuel their needs and interests,” he said in a press briefing ahead of today’s launch.

    Not surprisingly, the update is adding AI-powered functionality to the Play Store.

    AI Search and new Apps tab

    With a feature called Guided Search, users can find the app or game they want to try by typing in a goal or idea instead of the app’s name. For example, a user could type in “find a home” to be pointed to real estate apps.

    Image Credits:Google

    The Play Store’s Apps tab is also being updated to include new “curated spaces” dedicated to seasonal topics and those tailored to a user’s interests. These could pull in content from multiple apps, Google says. In the U.S., content related to the WNBA will be featured here, for instance.

    This expansion follows the launch of curated spaces in India and Japan, which had focused on regional interests like cricket and comics, respectively. Korean users will also gain a curated space focused on video content, offering a mix of movies, TV shows, and short-form video, including drama and serialized stories. Google notes that short-form content is the most frequently consumed media format on smartphones.

    Image Credits:Google

    A personal home with the You tab

    A new You tab aims to attract users to engage with the Play Store more frequently, as it will offer a centralized place for tracking subscriptions, rewards (like Play Points), recommendations, stats, and updates.

    Image Credits:Google

    Notably, the tab will offer recommendations related to your interests, like movies or shows, podcasts, ebooks or audiobooks, and make it easier to jump back into what you were reading, listening to, or watching last.

    Image Credits:Google

    Gamers will also see their new gamer profile in this tab, which organizes stats and achievements across games and devices. These profiles can also now be customized with a Gen AI avatar.

    Image Credits:Google

    A new Games tab and AI ‘sidekick’

    New features for gamers are also rolling out after the launch of the new Games app that shipped with Android rival Apple’s iOS 26 release.

    Now, the Games tab will centralize stat and achievement tracking, rewards, and community into one place. Play Games Leagues will allow users to challenge their friends and compete for Play Points rewards. This kicks off with the first league dedicated to the popular title Subway Surfers, which will run from October 10 through October 23.

    However, the more interesting update is the addition of the AI-enabled Play Games Sidekick. This is a new in-game overlay that you can access to get real-time gaming assistance from Gemini Live.

    Image Credits:Google

    The idea is that you can ask Gemini for help when you get stuck in a game and need guidance or tips. The feature builds on the work Google showcased with DeepMind in December, where the company showed off how it was developing AI agents across domains, including gaming.

    “Instead of having to leave the game to seek out tutorials or walkthroughs, we’re leveraging the latest Gemini audio-to-audio model to help understand your gaming context, providing you quick responses and encouragement,” said Mahbood.

    Image Credits:Google

    The Sidekick will also curate and organize other relevant gaming info in one place, so you can stay in the game. Initially, the feature will be supported in games from EA and Netmarble, including Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, FC Mobile, and Solo Leveling: Arise.

    Also new are the enhanced Game Detail Pages, which will showcase information about the title, including ongoing events, developer updates, and offers. Next month, gamers will also be able to ask questions and share answers on this page to provide or get help from other gamers.

    The Google Play Games on PC offering, which brings more than 200,000 titles to Windows desktops, is exiting beta today, too, Google said.

    Image Credits:Google

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  • Waze update ends support for older Android phones

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    If you rely on an older Android device, whether it’s a phone, tablet or car infotainment unit, you may soon lose access to all the new Waze features. Waze’s latest beta, version 5.9.90 and higher, now requires Android 10 as a minimum, up from the previous requirement of Android 8.

    This change means that while your device may still run Waze, it will no longer receive updates. That applies to all the navigational improvements, bug fixes and new tools Waze typically rolls out every few months.

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    Older Android devices may not be able to download the latest Waze updates. (Waze)

    Why Waze dropping Android 8 and 9 support matters

    First, it’s important to note that Google Maps continues to support Android 8 and Android 9, offering a lifeline if you’re stuck on older software.

    YOUR PHONE IS TRACKING YOU EVEN WHEN YOU THINK IT’S NOT

    Still, Waze is a community-driven navigation leader. Its strength comes from real-time, crowdsourced reporting of incidents, police traps, road hazards and even gas prices, features that many drivers value above Google Maps.

    Who loses Waze features on older Android devices

    • Drivers using older smartphones or tablets: If you haven’t updated your device to Android 10, you’ll lose access to new Waze features.
    • Users of aftermarket in-car infotainment systems: Many of these budget units still run Android 8 (Oreo) or Android 9 (Pie), meaning they’ll soon fall behind.
    Three views of the Waze app are seen side by side.

    Devices that have not been updated to at least Android 10 will not be able to access Waze’s newest features. (Waze)

    What Waze’s Android 10 requirement means for you

    If Waze is your go-to navigation app, here’s what to keep in mind:

    • You can keep using Waze on older Android versions, but you won’t get new features or updates.
    • App reliability may decline over time as backend changes or server protocols evolve.
    • Map updates and basic reporting may still work for a while, but support isn’t guaranteed indefinitely.
    • Google Maps remains a fallback option, as it still supports older Android systems.

    HOW TO DISABLE GEMINI AI ON ANDROID AND KEEP CONTROL OF YOUR APPS

    Three views of the Waze app are seen side by side.

    As a version of the app gets older, it may become less reliable over time. (Waze)

    Tips to keep Waze working on your Android device

    If you rely on Waze daily, here are some quick ways to stay ahead of the update cutoff:

    • Check your Android version: Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information to confirm if you’re running Android 10 or higher.
    • Update your device: If your phone or tablet supports it, install the latest Android update to keep Waze fully functional.
    • Consider a budget upgrade: If your hardware is stuck on Android 9 or older, affordable Android 10+ phones and tablets are widely available.
    • Update car infotainment systems: Many aftermarket head units allow software updates. Check the manufacturer’s site to see if Android 10 is available.
    • Keep Google Maps as backup: If updating isn’t possible, Google Maps still works on Android 8 and 9, ensuring you’re never left without navigation.

    Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

    Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right — and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: CyberGuy.com.

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    The shift to Android 10 reflects a common pattern in app development: focus on newer OS versions enables advanced features and stronger security. For most Android users, especially those on modern devices, this is a non-issue. But if you’re using older hardware, especially in your vehicle, you must plan ahead. To keep enjoying the full Waze experience, consider whether upgrading your device or switching to supported apps like Google Maps is the smarter move.

    Will you upgrade your device to stay updated with Waze, or will this change push you to switch to Google Maps? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.  

    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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  • I Tested Garmin’s AI-Enabled Subscription Service for Five Months to See if It’s Worth It

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    It’s so annoying. You’ve just spent hundreds of dollars on a new Garmin Fenix 8 or Forerunner 970, only to find out you might have to hand over even more money to get the full Garmin experience. Earlier this year, Garmin introduced Connect+, a subscription element, to its Connect companion app. It stirred up its user base in the worst possible way. I visited Garmin’s headquarters in Kansas not long after the announcement, and it was clear; Connect+ is here to stay, and there’s a team now dedicated to bringing more features to sit behind that paywall.

    Currently, anyone can try Connect+ for free for a month before deciding whether there’s anything worthy of the $7 monthly subscription, or $70 yearly fee. I’ve been using Connect+ for five months now, while testing pretty much every new watch Garmin has launched in that period.

    With seven core features currently available, I’m going to tell you about the ones I actually found useful, highlight the ones I didn’t, and tell you whether you really need another subscription to add to your monthly outgoings. If none of these appeal, be sure to check out our guides to the Best Fitness Trackers or the Best Smartwatches for more.

    Jump To

    AI Insights

    Photograph: Michael Sawh

    Let’s start with Active Intelligence, which is the most prominently featured of all Connect+ features inside the app. These are personalized training insights and recommendations that you’ll spy at the top of the home screen tab. These are powered by AI and analyze data like workout history and performance metrics captured by your Garmin device.

    The idea here is that the more data that can be analyzed, the more personalized those insights should become. In the first weeks of using it, Active Intelligence’s insights were pretty rudimentary. My last swim improved my aerobic fitness. Great. I could see that simply by looking at the data from that logged swim.

    Five months later, I’m getting a better sense of what I think Garmin hopes this feature can be. I’m now told that my ground contact balance during runs is suboptimal and I should consider some strength training and to work on my running form. However, the app doesn’t suggest what that training should entail, or the exercises that could help to address that suboptimal GCT. Maybe that’s to come. Given that this is the one Connect+ feature tagged as a beta, I imagine it could look different in a year’s time.

    Real-Time Advice

    Should You Subscribe to Garmin Connect

    Photograph: Michael Sawh

    If you’re on exercise equipment that lacks a display, or you don’t want to pause a workout to look at your watch, Live Activities lets you mirror real-time metrics from your watch to your phone. It’s especially useful for strength training sessions, to make editing reps less fiddly.

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    Michael Sawh

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  • Trump expected to extend TikTok divestment deadline again: Report

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    President Donald Trump‘s administration is expected to extend the September 17 deadline for China’s ByteDance to divest TikTok‘s U.S. assets or shut down the popular short-video app, according to a Reuters report citing a source familiar with the matter.

    This would mark the fourth extension granted by Trump since retaking office in January, following previous delays that moved the original congressional deadline to April, then May, June, and now potentially beyond September.

    Newsweek has reached out to the White House via email on Saturday for comment.

    Why It Matters

    The president’s stance on TikTok has evolved. During his first term, he signed executive orders to ban the app, which were later blocked by courts. His change in position followed meetings with American investors and public acknowledgment of TikTok’s role in his political outreach to young voters during last year’s election.

    Despite congressional mandates requiring ByteDance to sell its U.S. operations or face a ban, the continued delays signal the Trump administration’s reluctance to shut down an app used by approximately 170 million Americans.

    The administration’s August launch of an official White House TikTok account further underscores the platform’s strategic importance for political communication.

    What To Know

    TikTok’s uncertain status stems from longstanding concerns about Beijing’s potential ability to use the platform for surveillance, blackmail, or censorship of Americans. The app faces a federal sell-or-ban law enacted by Congress that originally required ByteDance to divest U.S. operations by January 2025.

    Any potential sale faces significant technical and political hurdles, particularly regarding TikTok’s proprietary algorithm, which would require Beijing’s approval to share with U.S. buyers.

    A previous deal framework would have created a new U.S.-based company majority-owned by American investors, but progress stalled after China indicated it would not approve the arrangement following Trump’s tariff announcements.

    The expected extension comes as U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer engage in trade talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Spain where TikTok has been included as an official agenda item for the first time in bilateral negotiations, Reuters reported. The meeting in Spain follows previous rounds in Geneva, London, and Stockholm where the app was not discussed.

    This development provides the Trump administration with political cover for another extension, sources told Reuters.

    The TikTok app logo is shown on an iPhone on January 17 in Houston.

    AP Photo/Ashley Landis, File

    What People Are Saying

    President Donald Trump wrote in June on Truth Social: “I’ve just signed the executive order extending the deadline for the TikTok closing by 90 days (September 17, 2025). Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

    White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in an August statement: “The Trump administration is committed to communicating the historic successes President Trump has delivered to the American people with as many audiences and platforms as possible.”

    Trump’s then-national security adviser Mike Waltz said in January: “…President Trump has been very clear: Number one, TikTok is a great platform that many Americans use and has been great for his campaign and getting his message out. But number two, he’s going to protect their data.”

    What Happens Next?

    The administration faces mounting pressure to either finalize a divestment arrangement or provide a clear justification for indefinite delays.

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  • Mastodon rolls out quote posts with protections to prevent ‘dunking’ | TechCrunch

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    Mastodon, an open source, decentralized alternative to X, is rolling out a somewhat controversial feature by adding quote posts, which will launch next week. The feature, which allows a user to quote someone else’s post and re-share it with their own response or commentary, has contributed to a culture of “dunking” on X, where users often deride other people by responding with snark or insulting humor.

    To address this concern, Mastodon says it’s implementing quote posts with safety controls.

    These protections are designed to allow quote posts to be used responsibly, to “expand discussions, make new connections, and amplify underrepresented voices,” the platform states.

    Image Credits:Mastodon

    Mastodon gives users several ways to control how their posts can be quoted. For starters, the platform lets users decide who can quote them through a setting where you can change your defaults. Here, you can set the permissions for who can quote you by choosing between “Anyone,” “Followers only,” or “Just me.” Additionally, you can control the visibility of quote posts by setting them to be visible to the public, to followers only, or a setting called “quiet public,” which makes the quotes public but removes them from Mastodon’s search, trends, and public timeline.

    Users will also be able to override their default settings on a post-by-post basis, if need be, by navigating to the “Visibility and interaction settings” within the composer screen. This would be useful if you know you’re about to say something controversial or anything that could attract unwanted attention from those with opposing views, for instance.

    Image Credits:Mastodon

    Plus, users will have control of their posts even after they’re quoted, the Mastodon blog post about the new feature explains.

    When someone quotes a post, the user being quoted is notified in the app, and they can choose to remove their original post from the other person’s quote post. This is accessible through the Options menu (the three dots icon). From this location, users can change the quote settings to address any future quoting of their post going forward. They can also block users to prevent them from seeing and quoting their posts in the future.

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    Support for quote posts will first arrive over the week ahead to the larger Mastodon servers at mastodon.online and mastodon.social. It will then become available in Mastodon’s 4.5 software update.

    To quote a post, you’ll find the new option under Mastodon’s Boost (similar to X’s repost/retweet feature). Because the fediverse, or open social web, is a network of servers running different software, quote posts may not immediately appear everywhere, and some platforms may not update to use the technical specification enabling quote post support right away.

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  • New AI apps help rental drivers avoid fake damage fees

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    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    Rental car drivers are now turning to artificial intelligence to protect themselves from surprise damage fees. Major companies, such as Hertz and Sixt, have begun using automated inspection tools to detect scratches and dents. 

    While these scanners promise efficiency, they have sparked backlash from renters who say they were unfairly billed for minor blemishes.

    To level the playing field, new consumer-focused apps are stepping in. Proofr, which launched recently, gives renters the ability to generate secure, time-stamped before-and-after photos of their vehicles. The app uses AI to detect even subtle changes, then encrypts and stores the images so they cannot be altered.

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    AI-POWERED SELF-DRIVING SOFTWARE IS DISRUPTING THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY

    AI-powered damage detection apps like Proofr could change the way rental car companies report vehicle damage. (Proofr)

    How the AI-powered damage detection app works

    Created by 21-year-old college student Eric Kuttner, founder and CEO of Proofr, the app helps drivers create tamper-proof evidence when renting a car. Proofr secures every scan with geotags and timestamps, while its AI automatically flags potential damage or changes. It then organizes everything into smart, exportable reports, giving renters strong leverage against unfair claims.

    Instead of juggling dozens of photos in your camera roll, Proofr streamlines the process. With just eight quick scans, you get a detailed before-and-after report in under a minute. You can also generate polished PDF reports instantly, which helps with rental agencies, landlords or insurance claims. Although cars are the main focus, people also use Proofr for Airbnbs, eBay listings, moving into apartments and even documenting valuables. About 85% rely on it for car rentals, while 15% use it to protect themselves in vacation homes.

    By combining secure evidence with AI-powered detection, Proofr positions itself as a must-have travel hack. More than a convenience, it can save travelers real money by preventing hidden fees and leveling the playing field against large agencies.

    The app is free to download, while full features require a Pro subscription: $2.89 weekly, $9.90 monthly or $89.90 annually. Pricing is standardized in the US, and Apple automatically adjusts it for local currencies, taxes, and exchange rates in other countries.

    Competition in the AI damage space

    Proofr is not the only player. Ravin AI originally worked with Avis and Hertz but shifted its focus toward insurers and dealerships. Still, the company now offers a free demo on its website, allowing drivers to scan its vehicles and compare damage before and after rentals.

    Ravin’s system has been trained on 2 billion images over ten years. However, like Proofr, it is not perfect. Testers have noted missed paint chips and false positives from reflections. Both companies admit that lighting, angles and photo quality remain challenges.

    LUCID JOINS TESLA AND GM WITH HANDS-FREE HIGHWAY DRIVING

    ProovStation webpage

    Some companies are implementing physical scanners to detect damage to rental vehicles. (ProovStation)

    Why rental companies are under fire

    The frustration comes as rental agencies roll out AI inspection systems from firms such as UVeye and ProovStation. Sixt, for example, has already installed ProovStation’s AI-powered scanners at several U.S. airport locations, including Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Charlotte, Miami and Maui, with more on the way in Orlando, Washington and Nashville. 

    These scanners automatically photograph vehicles at the start and end of each rental. The system then compares images to flag potential damage, which is later reviewed by staff before any claim is issued.

    Critics argue these automated tools can turn every small scratch into a profit source. Some even point to ProovStation’s own marketing, which describes routine inspections as “gold mines of untapped opportunities.” Industry experts stress that companies should only pursue claims for significant damage, not charge hundreds for tiny scuffs.

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    A ProovStation scanner over a rental car

    Rental car company Sixt has already installed ProovStation scanners at several U.S. airports. (ProovStation)

    What this means for you

    If you rent cars regularly, AI is already shaping your experience. Rental companies are using automated inspections to justify new charges, sometimes for barely visible marks. Apps like Proofr and Ravin give you the same technology, but on your side. By scanning your car before and after your rental, you create a digital record that can help you challenge unfair claims.

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    Kurt’s key takeaways

    The rental car industry is in the middle of a technology shift. What was once a quick glance by an employee is now a machine-driven process that can generate steep charges. Consumer apps bring transparency, but they also highlight the growing need for fairness in damage claims.

    Would you trust an AI app to protect you from rental car fees, or do you think rental companies should change their policies first? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

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    Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.  All rights reserved.

    Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

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  • Personalized AI companion app Dot is shutting down | TechCrunch

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    Dot, an AI companion app that aimed to be a friend and confidante, is shutting down, the company announced on Friday. On a message published on its website, the startup behind Dot, New Computer, said that the product will remain operational until October 5, giving users time to download their data.

    Launched in 2024 by co-founders Sam Whitmore and former Apple designer Jason Yuan, Dot waded into what’s now become a more controversial area for AI chatbots. The app they created was described as an AI “friend and companion,” which would become more personalized to you and your interests over time in order to offer advice, sympathy, and emotional support.

    As Yuan explained at the time, Dot was “facilitating a relationship with my inner self. It’s like a living mirror of myself, so to speak,” he said.

    However, this may not be a safe area to invest in as a smaller startup.

    As AI technology has become more mainstream, there have been reports of how emotionally vulnerable people have been led into delusional thinking by AI chatbots like ChatGPT. This has led to a phenomenon described as “AI psychosis,” resulting from how the scyophantic chatbots reinforce a user’s confused or paranoid beliefs.

    As Dot shuts down, AI chatbot apps broadly have been falling under increased scrutiny over safety concerns. OpenAI is currently being sued by the parents of a California teenager who took his life after messaging with ChatGPT about his suicidal thoughts. Other stories have highlighted how AI companion apps can reinforce unhealthy behaviors in users who are mentally unwell. This week, two U.S. attorneys general sent a letter to OpenAI over safety concerns.

    Dot’s makers didn’t address whether these types of issues had weighed on the founders’ minds. Instead, the brief post only notes that Whitmore and Yuan’s shared “Northstar” had diverged.

    “Rather than compromise either vision, we’ve decided to go our separate ways and wind down operations,” the post explains.

    “We want to be sensitive to the fact that this means many of you will lose access to a friend, confidante, and companion, which is somewhat unprecedented in software, so we want to give you some time to say goodbye. Dot will remain operational until October 5, and until then you can download all of your data by navigating to the settings page and tapping ‘Request your data.’”

    The post suggests the startup had “hundreds of thousands” of users, but data from app intelligence provider Appfigures sees only 24,500 lifetime downloads on iOS since launching in June 2024. (There was no Android version.)

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  • The Instagram iPad App Is Finally Here

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    Apple debuted the iconic and now wildly popular iPad in 2010. A few months later, Instagram landed on the App Store to rapid success. But for 15 years, Instagram hasn’t bothered to optimize its app layout for the iPad’s larger screen.

    That’s finally changing today: There’s now a dedicated Instagram iPad app available globally on the App Store.

    It has been a long time coming. Even before Apple began splitting its mobile operating system from iOS into iOS and iPadOS, countless apps adopted a fresh user interface that embraced the larger screen size of the tablet. This was the iPad’s calling card at the time, and those native apps optimized for its precise screen size are what made Apple’s device stand out from a sea of Android tablets that largely ran phone apps inelegantly blown up to fit the bigger screen.

    Except Instagram never went iPad-native. Open the existing app right now, and you’ll see the same phone app stretched to the iPad’s screen size, with awkward gaps on the sides. And you’ll run into the occasional problems when you post photos from the iPad, like low-resolution images. Weirdly, Instagram did introduce layout improvements for folding phones a few years ago, which means the experience is better optimized on Android tablets today than it is on iPad.

    Instagram’s chief, Adam Mosseri, has long offered excuses, often citing a lack of resources despite being a part of Meta, a multibillion-dollar company. Instagram wasn’t the only offender—Meta promised a WhatsApp iPad app in 2023 and only delivered it earlier this year. (WhatsApp made its debut on phones in 2009.)

    The fresh iPad app (which runs on iPadOS 15.1 or later) offers more than just a facelift. Yes, the Instagram app now takes up the entire screen, but the company says users will drop straight into Reels, the short-form video platform it introduced five years ago to compete with TikTok. The Stories module remains at the top, and you’ll be able to hop into different tabs via the menu icons on the left. There’s a new Following tab (the people icon right below the home icon), and this is a dedicated section to see the latest posts from people you actually follow.

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  • TikTok now lets users send voice notes and images in DMs | TechCrunch

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    TikTok is giving users new ways to interact with others via direct messages (DMs), the company told TechCrunch on Friday. Users will now be able to send voice notes and share up to nine images or videos in one-to-one and group chats on the platform.

    With these new features, TikTok is positioning itself as more than just an entertainment platform, aiming to become a place where users interact regularly beyond simply sending each other TikTok videos. Additionally, the new capabilities bring TikTok’s messaging experience more in line with that of other popular social apps and services.

    With voice notes, users can record and send audio messages up to 60 seconds long. The launch of the feature comes as services like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Apple’s Messages already offer the ability to send voice notes to others via DMs.

    It makes sense for TikTok to add voice notes to its DMs, especially as a growing number of people, particularly Gen Z, are embracing the format for communication.

    The feature is rolling out over the next few weeks, TikTok says.

    Image Credits:TikTok

    As for sharing photos and videos, users can either take a photo or video with their camera or select one from their camera roll to share it with others. They can also choose to edit the content before sending it.

    For user safety, people can’t send an image or video as their initial message request. For example, if someone messages you for the first time, they can’t send a photo or video they have taken themselves; they can only share content already on TikTok.

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    Additionally, when someone chooses to send a photo or video, TikTok will remind them to protect their privacy and be mindful of who they’re sending that content to.

    While DMs on TikTok are unavailable to users under the age of 16, the company is adding protections for users between the ages of 16 and 18. For instance, TikTok has automated systems in place to detect and block images containing nudity. This means that the sender will be blocked from sending the nude image, and the receiver won’t see the image at all.

    Users above the age of 18 can choose to toggle this safety feature on in their app settings.

    TikTok sees the new features as a way for users to express themselves and connect with others in ways that they’re already accustomed to.

    The move comes as TikTok has been working to build out its messaging product. Last year, the platform launched group chats, giving users the ability to chat with up to 32 people at once. TikTok also recently rolled out Creator Chat Rooms, a dedicated space for creators and their followers to connect and interact with each other.

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  • Google Will Make All Android App Developers Verify Their Identity Starting Next Year

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    Android’s open nature set it apart from the iPhone as the era of touchscreen smartphones began nearly two decades ago. Little by little, Google has traded some of that openness for security, and its next security initiative could make the biggest concessions yet in the name of blocking bad apps.

    Google has announced plans to begin verifying the identities of all Android app developers, and not just those publishing on the Play Store. Google intends to verify developer identities no matter where they offer their content, and apps without verification won’t work on most Android devices in the coming years.

    Google used to do very little curation of the Play Store (or Android Market, if you go back far enough), but it has long sought to improve the platform’s reputation as being less secure than the Apple App Store. Years ago, you could publish actual exploits in the official store to gain root access on phones, but now there are multiple reviews and detection mechanisms to reduce the prevalence of malware and banned content. While the Play Store is still not perfect, Google claims apps sideloaded from outside its store are 50 times more likely to contain malware.

    This, we are led to believe, is the impetus for Google’s new developer verification system. The company describes it like an “ID check at the airport.” Since requiring all Google Play app developers to verify their identities in 2023, it has seen a precipitous drop in malware and fraud. Bad actors in Google Play leveraged anonymity to distribute malicious apps, so it stands to reason that verifying app developers outside of Google Play could also enhance security.

    However, making that happen outside of its app store will require Google to take a page from Apple’s playbook and flex its muscle in a way many Android users and developers could find intrusive. Google plans to create a streamlined Android Developer Console, which devs will use if they plan to distribute apps outside of the Play Store. After verifying their identities, developers will have to register the package name and signing keys of their apps. Google won’t check the content or functionality of the apps, though.

    Google says that only apps with verified identities will be installable on certified Android devices, which is virtually every Android-based device—if it has Google services on it, it’s a certified device. If you have a non-Google build of Android on your phone, none of this applies. However, that’s a vanishingly small fraction of the Android ecosystem outside of China.

    Google plans to begin testing this system with early access in October of this year. In March 2026, all developers will have access to the new console to get verified. In September 2026, Google plans to launch this feature in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. The next step is still hazy, but Google is targeting 2027 to expand the verification requirements globally.

    A Seismic Shift

    This plan comes at a major crossroads for Android. The ongoing Google Play antitrust case brought by Epic Games may finally force changes to Google Play in the coming months. Google lost its appeal of the verdict several weeks ago, and while it plans to appeal the case to the US Supreme Court, the company will have to begin altering its app distribution scheme, barring further legal maneuvering.

    Among other things, the court has ordered that Google must distribute third-party app stores and allow Play Store content to be rehosted in other storefronts. Giving people more ways to get apps could increase choice, which is what Epic and other developers wanted. However, third-party sources won’t have the deep system integration of the Play Store, which means users will be sideloading these apps without Google’s layers of security.

    It’s hard to say how much of a genuine security problem this is. On one hand, it makes sense Google would be concerned—most of the major malware threats to Android devices spread via third-party app repositories. However, enforcing an installation whitelist across almost all Android devices is heavy handed. This requires everyone making Android apps to satisfy Google’s requirements before virtually anyone will be able to install their apps, which could help Google retain control as the app market opens up. While the requirements may be minimal right now, there’s no guarantee they will stay that way.

    The documentation currently available doesn’t explain what will happen if you try to install a non-verified app, nor how phones will check for verification status. Presumably, Google will distribute this whitelist in Play Services as the implementation date approaches. We’ve reached out for details on that front and will report if we hear anything.

    This story originally appeared on Ars Technica.

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