In response to changes in the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (which came into force in March), WhatsApp users will soon be able to send messages from WhatsApp to people using other messaging apps, e.g. Messenger, Telegram, and Signal.

What Change In The Digital Marketing Act? 

Meta-owned WhatsApp is making this major change because the EU’s Digital Markets Act – DMA (a regulation aimed at promoting competition and reducing monopolistic practices in the tech industry) requires major platforms like WhatsApp to become interoperable with other messaging services, i.e. there must be interoperability between WhatsApp and other third-party apps.

Because Meta Is A “Gatekeeper” 

Under the DMA, WhatsApp’s owner Meta is regarded as being a “gatekeeper”, i.e. a large tech company that controls access to key digital services, such as messaging platforms, operating systems, or social networks. These companies have a significant impact on the market and must comply with strict rules to ensure fair competition. Gatekeepers like Meta are therefore required, under the DMA, to open up their services (e.g. WhatsApp and Messenger) to allow interoperability with smaller platforms, as well as follow regulations on data handling, user privacy, and transparency.

No Need To Install The Other Apps 

With this change, although WhatsApp and Meta’s Messenger must open up their platforms to allow messages to flow between different apps, a WhatsApp user will be able to communicate with someone on Telegram or Signal without needing those apps installed.

Will Make It Simple For Users

Meta says it has designed a simple onboarding flow for users where they can learn more about third-party chats and turn the feature on which means that although it’s mandatory to open the apps up, the feature still has an opt-in element, to help users avoid risks like spam and scams. For example, users will have the option to choose which third-party apps they want to receive messages from, and how they would like to manage their inbox.

Can Keep Third-Party App Messages Separate 

Meta says users will have the option to be able to keep third-party chats separate from their current inbox, or to combine all chats in a single inbox. For example, users will be able to have third-party messages delivered into a separate folder if they wish.

Two Years In The Making 

Meta says it’s been working on getting the interoperability ready for two years. The change, however, is still being tested, with full implementation expected to start in late 2024, although features will gradually roll out over time. Meta says it has built new notifications into WhatsApp and Messenger that will inform users about third-party chats and will “remind users each time a new third-party messaging app becomes available.” 

Basic one-on-one messaging and file-sharing features, such as text, images, videos, and voice notes, are expected to be ready soon. Group chats and voice/video calls will be added later, with group chats pencilled-in for 2025 and calls by 2027.

Maintaining E2EE 

Meta has been somewhat reluctant about this change but is committed to complying with the DMA’s requirements. The company has stressed the need to maintain end-to-end encryption (E2EE) throughout this integration, although it has acknowledged challenges in ensuring security when third-party services are involved.

For example, Meta has said to send messages, the third-party providers must construct message ‘protobuf’ structures (protocol buffers that define how messages are formatted) which are then encrypted using the Signal Protocol and then packaged into message stanzas in eXtensible Markup Language (XML). Meta says the Signal Protocol is required because of its high level of security.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

For Meta, with its WhatsApp and Messenger platforms, this shift toward interoperability marks a really significant transformation. As a designated “gatekeeper” under the DMA, Meta is (reluctantly) being compelled to adapt to a more open and collaborative environment. While the company has expressed some hesitation, particularly around ensuring the privacy and security of cross-platform communications, it is clear that complying with the DMA is essential for maintaining its strong position in the European market. The challenge lies in balancing user security with the seamless integration of different messaging platforms, a feat Meta is tackling through encryption protocols and new user control features. Long-term, this could push Meta towards further innovation, as competition intensifies in a more diversified and open messaging landscape.

For competitors like Telegram, Signal, and other smaller messaging apps, the changes present both an opportunity and a challenge. These platforms now have the ability to interact with WhatsApp’s vast user base, opening doors for increased visibility and growth. However, to ensure secure communication and match the standards set by Meta, these platforms will need to meet stringent security and technical requirements. The market itself is likely to see a shift toward greater collaboration between apps, but with increased competition to offer superior services and features, such as privacy tools or unique messaging options.

Following Microsoft having to postpone the release of its ‘Recall’ screenshot feature in May over privacy concerns, it now plans to re-launch an updated version in November on its new CoPilot+ computers.

Recall – What Happened? 

At its Microsoft Build 2024 developer conference back in May, Microsoft announced that it planned to introduce the ‘Recall’ AI-powered feature which was designed to take periodic screenshots (snapshots) of everything a user interacts with on their PC. The screenshots (taken every 5 seconds) were to be stored (encrypted) and analysed using optical character recognition (OCR) – using AI, locally on the user’s PC.

Why Take Snapshots? 

The screenshots (referred to as snapshots) were intended to be used to provide a timeline of everything a user’s done and seen, and to enable the use of voice commands to search through this timeline. Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s executive vice president and consumer chief marketing officer, said that with Recall, Microsoft “set out to solve one of the most frustrating problems we encounter daily — finding something we know we have seen before on our PC”.  Recall was, therefore, intended to be a productivity and user experience-enhancing feature.

Privacy Concerns 

However, Microsoft very quickly faced a backlash due to fears around privacy and data security relating to the Recall feature. Recall was described as a “privacy nightmare” and attracted the attention of the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), plus critics pointed out that the tool (which continuously records user activity) could easily become a “honeypot” for hackers, especially if malware gained access to these snapshots.

Other concerns centered around:

– The default setting enabling Recall on Copilot+ PCs without explicit user consent.

– A lack of moderation in what Recall recorded, i.e. very sensitive information including snapshots of passwords, financial account numbers, medical or legal information (and more) would be recorded and, therefore, could potentially be accessed and taken.

– Worries about who could access these recordings, particularly if devices fell into the wrong hands or were compromised by malicious software.

– Anyone who knew a user’s password could access that user’s history in more detail.

– With gaining initial access to a device being one of the easier elements of an attack, this is all that would be needed to potentially access the screenshots and steal sensitive information or business trade secrets.

Listened 

Microsoft now says that it has listened to feedback, and after planning to debut Recall with its new CoPilot+ computers in June, it has spent time removing some of Recall’s more controversial features, and now plans to re-launch Recall in November (on its new CoPilot+ computers).

What’s New About It? 

With the revamped Recall, users must actively choose to enable it, rather than having it automatically activated. This change should give users more control over whether their data is recorded. Also, Microsoft has introduced encryption measures, secured via the Trusted Platform Module (TPM), to protect the screenshots that Recall takes. The data is also stored within a Virtualisation-based Security (VBS) Enclave, ensuring it’s more difficult for hackers or malware to access.

Additional enhancements are also understood to include the ability to set preferences for what content Recall captures, how long the data is stored, and what types of sensitive information (such as credit card details) should be automatically excluded from being recorded. For example, an icon in the system tray will now notify users when screenshots are being taken, providing transparency and the option to pause the feature whenever desired.

What Does It Mean For Your Business? 

As Microsoft prepares to relaunch Recall with a more privacy-conscious design, it shows the company’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised earlier this year. By shifting to an opt-in model and enhancing encryption, Microsoft aims to give users more control over their data, which is crucial in today’s security-focused landscape. The added features, such as notification alerts and more granular content preferences, demonstrate a thoughtful balance between innovation and user safety.

These changes are not just superficial adjustment, but they reflect Microsoft’s awareness of the growing need for transparent data management, especially with AI-powered tools that handle sensitive information. By actively listening to (and involving) users in deciding how Recall operates on their devices, Microsoft will, no doubt, be hoping to regain trust and re-establish Recall as a valuable productivity tool rather than a security risk.

Ultimately, whether these revisions are enough to win over privacy advocates remains to be seen. However, the revamped version of Recall marks a step in the right direction, highlighting how user feedback can shape technology in ways that benefit both functionality and security. Microsoft’s ability to adapt will likely be key to the long-term success of Recall and its broader Copilot+ initiative.

Apple is set to extend its satellite messaging service, introducing a Roadside Assistance feature in the UK through a partnership with Green Flag. This new service, launching with the iPhone 16, will enable drivers to get help in areas with poor or no cellular coverage, using satellite connectivity.

Previously available only in the US, the satellite Roadside Assistance messaging service will mean that iPhone users will still be able to communicate with breakdown services without a mobile or Wi-Fi signal. Scheduled for release with the iPhone 16 later this autumn, it promises greater safety and convenience for iPhone-using motorists in remote areas.

Green Flag, the UK roadside assistance provider, will support Apple in deploying this satellite-driven service. Aimed particularly at regions where mobile coverage is unreliable, the service will be accessible via a new interface on the latest iPhone model. However, while generally effective in open spaces, its performance may be reduced under cover or near large obstructions (satellites usually need a clear line of sight).

Apple’s Roadside Assistance will operate on a pay-per-use basis, thereby offering flexibility for UK drivers who prefer not to commit to a full-time subscription. This new service is expected to set a new industry standard in emergency communications via satellite and could also encourage the broader adoption of satellite assistance technologies, thereby helping Apple to diversify its product offerings and enhance its strategic positioning within the technology sector.

An HP Wolf Security report has highlighted how hackers are leveraging a ChromeLoader exploit and using code-signing certificates and malvertising techniques to distribute malware via fake companies and websites.

As part of what appears to be a large-scale cyberattack, cybercriminals are reportedly exploiting the ChromeLoader vulnerability (ChromeLoader is a malicious browser extension) by using valid code-signing certificates (the digital certificates to verify software authenticity and integrity), allowing them to bypass Windows security measures like AppLocker without triggering user warnings.

The report highlights how the attackers set up fake companies to obtain these valid certificates or steal them from legitimate sources. These fake companies then host websites that offer seemingly legitimate tools, such as PDF readers or converters, to lure in victims.

The campaign uses malvertising (malicious advertising) to direct potential victims to the well-designed but malware-ridden websites which often appear in search results for popular keywords like “PDF converters” and “manual readers.”

Once victims visit these infected sites, their browsers can be hijacked, allowing attackers to redirect search queries to malicious sites, increasing the scope of their attacks.

HP’s report suggests that the scripts used in this campaign were likely developed using generative AI tools, making it easier and faster for cybercriminals to launch such attacks.

The advice to avoid ChromeLoader attacks is to only download software from trusted sources, be cautious of online ads, keep security features enabled, use antivirus software, and regularly update your browser and system.

Cambridge-based startup ‘Pact’ has raised £9 million in (seed round) funding to expand its factory space and scale-up production of its “world-first” biomaterial – a skin made from collagen that’s a convincing alternative to leather.

Oval 

Oval, developed by Pact, is a pioneering biomaterial made from natural collagen, designed to be a sustainable and scalable alternative to traditional materials like leather. For example, with Oval Pact says it is “Capturing the strength, feel, stretch and durability of heritage materials through upcycled collagen.” 

The collagen used in Oval is sourced from ethical and environmentally friendly suppliers, often from surplus or recycled materials such as those used in cosmetics.

Oval not only looks like leather, but it also behaves like leather, i.e. it responds to scratches, water, and sunlight in a very similar way.

What’s Collagen? 

Natural collagen, the biomaterial that Oval is made from, is a protein, found in the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals, providing structural support and elasticity. It is often used in cosmetics for its ability to promote skin hydration, elasticity, and repair, making it popular in anti-aging products. Collagen’s biocompatibility and strength make it an ideal material for sustainable biomaterials like Oval, which mimics leather while reducing environmental impact. The Collagen used to make Oval is recycled collagen from old cosmetics with some herbal extracts, oils, and minerals added. Pact says: “Our collagen is a natural byproduct used in high-end cosmetics, skincare and pharmaceuticals”. 

Customisable 

Oval is versatile and customisable, allowing designers to create a wide range of textures, patterns, and colours. The material is finished using techniques traditionally applied to leather, making it ideal for luxury fashion, footwear, interiors, and more.

Chemical-Free + Reduced CO2

Its production is chemical-free, requires less water, and has a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional leather production. Pact estimates that incorporating Oval in place of leather and synthetic alternatives could prevent 4.8 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually!

Patented 

Pact says that in the production of Oval, a patented process is used to transform cosmetic-grade collagen into collagen skins. Pact says the skins are then “enriched with all-natural ingredients, then enhanced using time-honoured finishing techniques”. Pact sums up the key benefits of Oval, saying “Oval radically reduces environmental impact and inspires unlimited design possibilities”. 

Who’s It For? 

Pact CEO, Yudí Ding, highlights how the company has already partnered with Luxury Maisons and how the new biomaterial has been embraced by leading fashion houses and groups globally. For example, investors in this seed investment round included Hoxton Ventures, ReGen Ventures, Celsius Industries (formerly Untitled) and Polytechnique Ventures.

Pact has also developed “drop in” manufacturing technology, enabling clients to produce Oval directly in their own supply chains.

Funding To Scale-Up

The £9 million of funding raised in this seed round has enabled Pact to invest in a new 13,820 sqft headquarters in Cambridge, which includes a laboratory and pilot production facility. This will put Pact in a better position to push into the commercialisation phase and expand and scale-up production to meet demand (which is anticipated to be global).

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

The success of Pact and its innovative biomaterial, Oval, marks a significant shift towards sustainable alternatives in industries traditionally dependent on leather. As environmental concerns become paramount, Oval’s ability to mimic leather while drastically reducing water usage and CO2 emissions could position it as a game-changer across fashion, interiors, and even automotive design. By offering a material that combines durability, versatility, and sustainability, Pact is responding to the increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions without compromising on quality or creativity.

This advancement doesn’t just affect consumers and brands, but it also sends a clear message to competitors in the materials industry. As Pact scales up production and solidifies partnerships with luxury brands, traditional leather manufacturers and other synthetic alternatives may feel the pressure to innovate or risk becoming obsolete. Oval’s ability to slot seamlessly into existing supply chains, thanks to Pact’s “drop-in” manufacturing technology, may give it an edge that could force competitors to reassess their production models and environmental footprints.

As more companies adopt sustainable practices, Pact’s Oval appears to be setting a new benchmark that competitors will likely need to meet. This biomaterial’s potential to reduce millions of tonnes of CO2 emissions annually makes it not just an alternative but possibly a necessary evolution for the industry. Ultimately, Pact’s breakthrough may not only disrupt the materials market but also challenge the entire ecosystem to raise its sustainability standards and embrace innovation.

All that said, however, Pact’s Oval is still at the beginning of its journey and has yet to live up to its considerable promise when it goes fully into the commercialistaion phase, although it appears that the signs are good so far.

Quickly bookmark important pages or documents in any browser using the Ctrl + D shortcut, making it easier to save and access key resources. Here’s how to use it to bookmark a page and choose the bookmark folder:

How to bookmark a Page

– While on the webpage you want to bookmark, press Ctrl + D.

Choose the bookmark Folder

– Choose a folder to save the bookmark or use the default option, and click Done.

This tip works across all major browsers, including Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.