TechPression

Category: Apps

  • WhatsApp celebrates 10 years of privacy with new group features, AI tools

    WhatsApp celebrates 10 years of privacy with new group features, AI tools

    WhatsApp recently celebrated 10 years of prioritising user privacy, announcing new features on December 27, 2024.

    WhatsApp, a prominent messaging platform, has become renowned for its dedication to security since its inception in 2009 by Brian Acton and Jan Koum.

    Read also: YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    A decade of privacy innovation

    Since introducing end-to-end encryption in 2016, WhatsApp has consistently rolled out features that enhance user privacy.

    The latest addition, the Group Context Card, allows users to manage group interactions more effectively.

    Alice Newton-Rex, WhatsApp’s VP and Head of Product, emphasised the importance of privacy: “The need for private, intimate conversations is and always will be central to WhatsApp”.

    In addition to the Group Context Card, WhatsApp has integrated Meta AI into its platform, enhancing user experiences while maintaining security.

    This integration is particularly beneficial in India, where WhatsApp has a vast user base. Newton-Rex noted that “messaging is likely to be a major way people interact with AI tools today”.

    Read also: YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    Enhancing user control and safety

    WhatsApp demonstrates its commitment to user safety through various features to combat abuse and misinformation. In 2024 alone, the platform banned over 73 million accounts in India for malicious activities.

    Introducing Channels allows verified organisations to share credible updates directly with users, aiming to reduce misinformation during critical times.

    The platform also focuses on empowering users with tools like Disappearing Messages and Two-Step Verification, which provide additional layers of security. As Newton-Rex stated, “Privacy is at the core of everything we do”.

    WhatsApp’s journey reflects a commitment to creating a safe space for users worldwide, reinforcing its position as a trusted communication tool.

  • YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    YouTube simplifies content discovery with ‘Play Something’ button

    YouTube is set to enhance user experience on its mobile app by introducing a new feature called “Play Something.” This feature, which aims to streamline video discovery by allowing users to play suggested content with a tap, was announced on Friday.

    A new way to discover content

    Read also: YouTube expands AI auto-dubbing feature to knowledge-sharing creators

    On Android devices, the “Play Something” button will appear as a floating action button (FAB) in the lower right corner of the YouTube app interface. When tapped, it plays a video tailored to the user’s viewing preferences, which may include both YouTube Shorts and regular videos.

    This feature is designed to reduce users’ time scrolling through endless options, making it easier to find engaging content quickly.

    When the app is opened, the “Play Something” button replaces the minimized video player. If a user has an active minimized player, the button becomes inaccessible.

    This design choice ensures that users can focus on enjoying their selected video without distractions.

    The video player will display in portrait orientation. On the right side of the screen, buttons for liking, disliking, commenting, and sharing will be located, similar to the layout used for YouTube Shorts.

    Read also: YouTube on your TV? Airtel Nigeria teams up with Google to convert analogue TVs into smart screens

    Background and development

    The “Play Something” feature concept has been in development for over a year. Its first public appearance was noted in May 2023 when a Reddit user spotted it.

    Since then, YouTube has refined the functionality, leading to its current iteration in version 19.50 of the Android app. The feature’s introduction aligns with YouTube’s ongoing efforts to enhance user engagement by simplifying how viewers discover new videos.

    YouTube’s founder, Steve Chen, and co-founders Chad Hurley and Jawed Karim revolutionized how people consume video content online when they launched the platform in 2005.

    Their vision of making video sharing accessible has evolved into a multi-faceted service that continues to innovate with features like “Play Something.” This new addition reflects YouTube’s commitment to adapting to user needs and preferences in an increasingly competitive streaming environment.

    As users navigate countless videos daily, features like “Play Something” are essential for maintaining engagement and satisfaction. By offering personalized recommendations at the touch of a button, YouTube aims to recreate an old-school discovery experience reminiscent of earlier internet browsing days—where users could stumble upon unexpected gems rather than be overwhelmed by choices.

    The “Play Something” feature is being tested and unavailable to all users. However, those with access report that it significantly enhances their viewing experience by providing instant access to the content they will likely enjoy based on their previous interactions with the platform.

    This innovative approach not only keeps viewers engaged but also reinforces YouTube’s position as a leader in digital video.

  • X prioritises quality content over ad views in new revenue-sharing strategy for creators

    X prioritises quality content over ad views in new revenue-sharing strategy for creators

    Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, announced a significant price hike for its Premium Plus subscription tier on December 21, 2024. 

    The monthly fee increased from $16 to $22, marking a nearly 40 percent rise. This adjustment aims to enhance creator payouts and align with a new revenue-sharing model that rewards content quality and engagement rather than just ad views.

    Read also: Like X, Bluesky introduces trending topics feature to boost user engagement

    A shift in monetisation strategy

    The Premium Plus plan offers features like ad-free browsing and access to Grok AI. This change is part of Musk’s broader strategy to incentivise creators and encourage diverse content on the platform.

    Existing subscribers will retain their current rates until January 20, 2025, after which they will transition to the new pricing.

    Musk’s vision for X has always been ambitious. He aims to create a more vibrant ecosystem for creators by shifting focus from traditional advertising to user engagement.

    “We are committed to ensuring that our creators are rewarded for their contributions,” Musk stated in a post in January 2024. 

    This reflects a growing social media trend where platforms increasingly rely on subscription models to fund creator payments.

    Read also: Elon Musk’s xAI lands $6 billion in Series C funding

    Global impact of price increase

    The price adjustments are not uniform across different regions. For instance, users in Nigeria will see their monthly subscription surge by over 365cpercent, from N7,300 (approximately $9.50) to N34,000 (around $44), while Turkish users will face an increase from ₺300 (about $11) to ₺770 (approximately $29). Such drastic changes highlight the varying economic landscapes and user bases across countries.

    This pricing strategy has sparked mixed reactions among users. 

    Some express concern about the service’s affordability, especially during the holiday season when many are budgeting for gifts and celebrations. “It feels like a holiday slap in the face,” remarked one user in response to the announcement.

    Others see the potential benefits of enhanced features and improved creator compensation as justifying the increase.

    Musk’s approach at X continues to evolve as he seeks to redefine how social media platforms operate. By prioritising creator engagement and monetisation through subscriptions, he aims to foster a more sustainable environment for content creation.

  • Telegram surpasses $1 billion in revenue, achieves profitability for the first time in 11 years

    Telegram surpasses $1 billion in revenue, achieves profitability for the first time in 11 years

    Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, on Monday announced that the messaging platform has achieved profitability for the first time since its launch in 2013.

    This milestone comes after Telegram’s revenue surpassed $1 billion for the year, driven by its premium subscription service and advertising revenue.

    Durov noted that the company now has over 12 million paid users and over $500 million in cash reserves, excluding cryptocurrency assets.

    Read also: Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Growth and monetisation strategies

    Telegram has implemented various monetisation strategies to reach this point. In 2022, the introduction of a premium subscription allowed users to access additional features for $4.99 per month. 

    Durov emphasised that these efforts demonstrate that social media platforms can achieve financial sustainability while respecting user rights. He stated, “This is a testament to our commitment to remain independent and user-centric”.

    The platform has also launched ad revenue sharing for content creators and business-level subscriptions, enhancing its appeal to a broader audience.

    Telegram is popular, but its moderating material rules are being examined more closely. People who oppose the platform say it has been used to spread false information and hate speech.

    Durov has previously defended Telegram against such claims, asserting that it is not an “anarchic paradise” but a space for free expression.

    Read also: Order on WhatsApp with Ubuy: a new way to shop across borders

    Challenges ahead

    While celebrating this achievement, Durov acknowledged ongoing challenges. 

    Telegram has issued about $2 billion in debt over the past four years and has recently repaid a significant portion of it. 

    He remarked, “There’s a lot of work ahead,” indicating that while profitability is a significant step forward, it does not mark the end of Telegram’s journey.

    Durov’s leadership has not been without controversy; he was arrested in France in August 2024 amid allegations related to content on the platform. 

    After paying bail, he is still figuring out how to run a global message service while regulators keep looking closely.

    However, his goal for Telegram is to retain user privacy and free expression while making a profit.

  • Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Uganda lifts ban on Facebook after three years

    Uganda on Monday lifted restrictions on Facebook, after three agonising years for entrepreneurs who have struggled to leverage the social media platform’s ad tools to reach their target market.

    The ban was initially imposed in 2021 after Facebook blocked accounts linked to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), leading to widespread economic hardship among entrepreneurs heavily reliant on the platform to advertise their products and services.

    Read also: Order on WhatsApp with Ubuy: a new way to shop across borders

    Impact on entrepreneurs

    Emmanuel Emodek, founder of Chap Chap, emphasised that the ban severely limited innovation and customer engagement opportunities. 

    In a recent statement reported by New Vision, Jane Nalubega, a local entrepreneur, expressed, “We are not just asking for Facebook to be unblocked; we are fighting for our livelihoods,” said Jane Nalubega, a local entrepreneur in Nakawa market. She also runs an online business that has shrunk by 70 per cent since the ban. “We urge the government to reconsider its stance and recognise the critical role Facebook plays in our economic survival.”

    With over 2.7 million users in Uganda, Facebook is essential for reaching customers and boosting sales, especially for small businesses.

    Dr Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister for ICT and National Guidance, confirmed that discussions with Facebook were underway to restore access. He acknowledged social media’s significant role in economic activities and youth employment. 

    Prime Minister Robinah Nabanja emphasised Uganda’s youth’s creative potential, noting that their talents could ease the burden on government job creation efforts.

    Read also: Uganda’s KaFresh lands investment to extend shelf life of produce without refrigeration

    Looking ahead: Economic opportunities unlocked

    The government’s decision to reconsider the ban reflects a growing recognition of the importance of the digital economy. 

    Aminah Zawedde, permanent secretary for the Ministry of ICT, noted that youth unemployment remains a pressing concern, with about 30 percent of young people seeking better job opportunities. 

    Lifting the Facebook ban could support entrepreneurs and contribute to broader economic recovery.

    As Uganda prepares to reintegrate Facebook, many hope it will boost businesses and foster innovation in a country rich in talent and creativity.

  • X hikes Premium+ monthly subscription fee to N34,000 in Nigeria

    X hikes Premium+ monthly subscription fee to N34,000 in Nigeria

    On December 21, 2024, Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), announced a significant price increase for its Premium+ subscription in Nigeria. 

    The monthly fee jumped by 51 per cent, from N22,550 to N34,000. This change is one of the highest increases seen globally.

    Read also: Clash of the giants: Meta, Apple battle over privacy, interoperability in Europe

    Reasons for the price increase

    X explained that the price hike is due to several new features added to the Premium+ service. Subscribers will now enjoy an ad-free browsing experience without interruptions. 

    They will also get priority support and access to new features like Radar and advanced Grok AI models. X stated, “Your Premium+ subscription fee contributes to this new, more equitable system where creator earnings are tied to the overall value they bring X, not impressions of ads.”

    This shift is significant for Nigerian creators dependent on X’s monetisation program. While some users see the benefits of these new features, many are unhappy about the higher costs, especially given Nigeria’s economic challenges. For comparison, users in other countries like the U.S. and Canada saw smaller increases of 37.5 per cent and 45 per cent, respectively.

    Read also: Apple offers $1 million prize to anyone who can hack its intelligence servers

    User reactions and market impact

    The price change has led to mixed feelings among Nigerian users. Some appreciate the added features and improvements, but others feel the new price is too high. The annual subscription for Premium+ now costs N354,000, which adds to the financial burden on subscribers.

    As X continues to grow under Musk’s leadership, this price increase marks an essential step in its strategy to enhance user experience while supporting content creators. 

    The company’s focus on investing in innovative features shows its commitment to keeping subscribers engaged despite rising costs.

  • What’s new on Bluesky’s latest update?

    What’s new on Bluesky’s latest update?

    On December 20, 2024, Bluesky announced its latest update, version 1.96, unveiling several user-friendly features to enhance the social media experience.

    Founded by Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter -now X-, Bluesky is gradually gaining prominence in social networking, as  a chunk of users favour the app over X citing Elon Musk’s controversial hot takes.

    Read also: Cassava Technologies secures $310m funding to improve digital services across Africa

    Key features of update 1.96

    The highlight of this update is the introduction of the Mentions tab, which allows users to track notifications related to their mentions easily.

    This new feature simplifies how users engage with conversations and replies where they have been tagged, creating a more streamlined experience.

    Users can now tap the bell icon to view all interactions in one convenient location.

    Another significant addition is the username protection feature for those who create custom domains.

    This allows users to reserve their original .bsky.social usernames when verifying their accounts, preventing others from claiming them. This mainly benefits users with a brand or identity on the platform.

    One user remarked, “I wish this feature had been available when I established my custom domain; I had to create an alternate account to safeguard my old username.”

    This feedback emphasises the community’s wish for more user-friendly features.

    Read also: Affordable yuletide travel: BuuPass, FlexPay offer flexible payment plans for Kenyans

    Enhancing user engagement

    Bluesky’s updates come as the platform is experiencing significant growth, recently surpassing 25 million users.

    Features like the Mentions tab and username protection are expected to boost user engagement and retention.

    Users can customise how replies are displayed, choosing between linear and threaded formats, and filter responses based on various criteria.

    These enhancements improve usability and foster a more interactive environment for discussions.

    As Bluesky continues to innovate and adapt, it positions itself as a strong contender against established platforms like Meta’s Threads. With plans for a subscription model and further developments on the horizon, Bluesky is poised for continued growth in the ever-evolving world of social media.

  • Threads expand with scheduled posting

    Threads expand with scheduled posting

    Threads, Meta’s microblogging platform, is making headlines for its announcement on December 17, 2024, about the new ability to schedule posts.

    This update aims to enhance user experience by allowing individuals and businesses to plan their content more effectively, a functionality many users have eagerly awaited since the platform’s launch.

    Meta has positioned Threads as a competitor to X (formerly Twitter), and the introduction of scheduled posting is seen as a strategic move to attract more users and retain existing ones.

    Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri confirmed that the feature is currently being tested among a select group of users. He emphasised that this capability will enable users to organise their posts in advance, alleviating the need for reminders or alarms to publish content at optimal times.

    Read also: Meta unveils Video Seal: The New Weapon Fashioned Against Deepfakes

    “We want to balance giving people more control to plan their Threads posts while still encouraging real-time conversation,” Mosseri stated, noting that replies will not be included in this scheduling feature.

    Enhancing user engagement

    The scheduling feature benefits creators, brands, and businesses looking to maximise engagement during peak times. With this new option, users can compose their posts and select a specific date and time for publication through a simple interface. Scheduled posts will be stored in a drafts folder and can be edited or deleted before they go live.

    This development aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to enhance Threads’ functionality and competitiveness against platforms like Bluesky.

    Since its inception, Threads has been evolving rapidly. The platform has recently introduced other features, such as curated lists for following accounts and landscape video viewing. 

    These enhancements are part of Meta’s efforts to create a robust social media environment that caters to diverse user needs while fostering community interaction.

    Read also: Instagram introduces “trial reels” for creative experimentation

    Looking forward

    Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, recently announced that Threads has surpassed 100 million daily active users and 300 million monthly active users, indicating significant growth since its launch. 

    This surge in user engagement underscores the potential impact of new features like post-scheduling on the platform’s overall success.

    As Threads continues to innovate and expand its capabilities, it remains focused on creating a user-friendly environment that encourages planned content sharing and spontaneous interactions. 

    The scheduled posting feature is expected to roll out more broadly shortly, allowing all users to take advantage of this valuable tool for content management.

  • Nigerian court protects Facebook from complying with ARCON’S N60 billion fine

    Nigerian court protects Facebook from complying with ARCON’S N60 billion fine

    The Lagos Division of the Federal High Court has issued an interim order of injunction to restrain the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) from penalising Facebook and imposing a ₦60 billion fine on the social media app over alleged infractions.

    This ruling represents a developing legal battle over Nigeria’s advertising rules and regulatory authority. 

    Read also: Irish government slams Meta with €251 million fine for data breach

    ARCON’s allegations and Facebook’s defence

    ARCON accused Facebook of placing unauthorised adverts that did not pass through the Advertising Standards Panel, an offence the council claimed was eroding cultural and moral standards. 

    But Facebook challenged the fine on grounds of its constitutionality and ARCON’s legal authority to issue a fine. 

    The social media platform represented by  Mofesomo Tayo-Oyetibo (SAN) of Tayo Oyetibo law firm argued that ARCON lacked the right to impose any fine while a pending suit was still in court to determine its constitutionality.

    “It would be vexatious and oppressive to the Applicant and unconscionable for the Defendant to initiate criminal proceedings against the Applicant based on the allegations and decisions made by the Defendant in the ARCON Notice, while the Applicant’s suit challenging the constitutionality and legality of the ARCON Notice is pending in this Court,” the defendants argued.

    Facebook contended that the platform was denied a fair hearing to present its defence against ARCON’s accusations.

    Read also: Threads to begin ad Testing in 2025, Meta eyes revenue from rapid user base

    Court’s ruling: relief for now, more to come

    Having examined arguments ftom both parties, Justice Yellim Bogoro on December 12 ruled in favour of Facebook.

    The court ordered an interim injunction that protects Facebook from paying the N60 billion fine until the suit challenging ARCON’s constitutionality and authority is determined.

    “It is hereby ordered as follows: That an interim order of injunction is hereby made pending the determination of the motion on notice herein filed for interlocutory injunction restraining the defendant whether by itself or through its officers, agents, servants and any other person acting under its authority from enforcing or further enforcing in any manner whatsoever the notice of violation/demand for compliance dated 21 October 2024 issued by the defendant to the applicant,” Justice Bogoro said on December 12. 

    The court adjourned the case to February 20, 2025.

    This case could further strengthen regulatory power over Nigeria’s digital advertising market as both sides prepare for other legal proceedings. 

  • Over 15 million offensive channels, groups were removed in 2024: Telegram

    Over 15 million offensive channels, groups were removed in 2024: Telegram

    Since its inventor, Pavel Durov, was detained in France and charged with spreading dangerous content on his messaging app, Telegram has been under unprecedented pressure to clean up its platform this year.

    In a statement released Thursday on Durov’s Telegram channel, Telegram claims to have eliminated 15.5 million groups and channels associated with hazardous content, such as fraud and terrorism, in 2024 after announcing a crackdown in September. The company claims that this effort was “enhanced with cutting-edge AI moderation tools.”

    According to the message from Durov’s Telegram channel, the statement is part of a recently released moderation website Telegram created to better inform the public about its moderation efforts.

    Read also: Kenya suspends Telegram during KCSE exam hours to curb malpractice

    Since Durov’s arrest in August, there has been a discernible uptick in enforcement, according to Telegram’s moderation page. Durov is currently free on €5 million bond, but his French case is still pending.

    Part of the statement reads, “Over the past few years, our moderation team has been working tirelessly to keep Telegram safe. Each month they removed about 1 million channels and groups, along with over 10 million users who violated our rules. These impressive results were made possible thanks to your reports, as well as our automated detection systems and AI-powered tools.”

    Telegram blames media for under-reporting its moderation efforts 

    Telegram berates the media outlets for relying on the information on its website, which hadn’t been updated for years, as the public is not aware of the depth of its moderating activities.

    It stated, “However, much of this work remained behind the scenes. The public wasn’t fully aware of the extent of our moderation efforts, and media outlets often relied on outdated information from parts of our website that hadn’t been updated in a decade.”

    “To address this, we’ve launched a new section on our website: telegram.org/moderation. This page highlights the incredible work our moderators have done over the years and offers a transparent overview of our ongoing commitment to keeping Telegram safe,” the statement added.

    707,576 Child Sexual Abuse Materials-related channels and groups deactivated in 2024

    Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM) are strictly prohibited on Telegram. The platform claims to have banned 707,576 CSAM-related groups and channels in 2024.

    Since 2018, a hash database of CSAM that has been prohibited by its moderators during the previous ten years is automatically compared to public images.

    It added hashes from groups such as the Internet Watch Foundation to its database in 2024.

    Telegram handles hundreds of CSAM allegations from international third-party organisations using automated takedown addresses such as abuse@telegram.org and stopCA@telegram.org in addition to its proactive measures and user reports.

    “Telegram publishes daily transparency reports on the removal of CSAM content,” it said.

    Read also: Telegram sees 189% growth in African crypto groups as youths embrace digital currency

    130,119 terrorist-related communities banned in 2024

    Telegram is not the appropriate platform for terrorist propaganda or calls for violence. The social media platform claims to block 130,119 channels and groups that are used for terrorism-related activities.

    Daily transparency updates on the removal of terrorist content have been released by Telegram since 2016. Telegram has received recognition from Europol for its anti-terrorism efforts.

    Since 2022, Telegram has greatly expanded its work in collaboration with groups such as the Global Centre for Combating Extremist Ideology, or ETIDAL. Over 100 million pieces of terrorist content have been eliminated by Telegram’s moderators working with ETIDAL alone.