Tech

Russia mandates use of new state-controlled messaging app

Russia mandates state-controlled messaging app Max for officials by September 2025, increasing digital surveillance and replacing foreign platforms

Published

5 months ago

August 4, 2025

Ahron Young

Russia mandates state-controlled messaging app Max for officials by September, increasing digital surveillance and replacing foreign platforms

In Short:
– The Kremlin is launching a state-controlled app, Max, for government officials by September 2025.
– Max raises privacy concerns as it integrates messaging and government services, replacing foreign apps like WhatsApp.

The Kremlin has launched Max, a state-controlled messaging app mandated for government officials by September 2025.

According to The Independent, it is part of a move towards a digital surveillance ecosystem mirroring China’s model.

The platform, developed by VK Company, integrates messaging, government services, and financial transactions, raising privacy concerns among experts.

The Russian authorities aim to phase out foreign apps like WhatsApp, currently used by around 70% of Russians.

Max’s functionality allows users to handle various administrative tasks while permitting extensive access to personal data without traditional privacy controls.

The app will be pre-installed on all new devices sold in Russia starting September 2025.

Digital Suspension

Cybersecurity experts have termed Max as a “digital gulag,” enabling government access to citizens’ communications.

With over 2 million users registered by July 2025, concerns have been raised over its potential to serve as state-backed spyware.

Human rights groups warn of its implications for digital freedoms, especially as Russia intensifies its crackdown on dissenting voices.

Tech

Global memory chip shortage set to drive electronics prices higher

Global memory chip shortage raises electronics prices; impacts PCs, smartphones, and likely continues until 2026.

Published

3 days ago

January 9, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Global memory chip shortage raises electronics prices; impacts PCs, smartphones, and likely continues until 2026.

A severe global shortage of memory chips is sending shockwaves through the electronics industry, causing prices to rise across consumer devices. Experts warn that this shortage will continue until at least 2026, affecting everything from PCs to smartphones.

Major manufacturers, including Samsung Electronics, have reported record profits but caution that rising memory chip prices could put further pressure on the sector. This shortage is largely driven by AI technology demands, forcing companies to rethink production priorities.

Consumers should expect higher costs for electronics in the coming months, with price increases likely to continue through the end of 2026.

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#ChipShortage #ElectronicsPrices #SamsungNews #AIChips #TechIndustry #PCPriceHike #SmartphoneCosts #TickerNews

Tech

CES 2026 Highlights: AI, robotics, and the future of innovation

CES 2026 explores AI, robotics, and sustainability, reshaping the global economy and redefining productivity and market dynamics.

Published

4 days ago

January 8, 2026

Harvey Vargas

CES 2026 explores AI, robotics, and sustainability, reshaping the global economy and redefining productivity and market dynamics

CES 2026 in Las Vegas is showing how technology is not just shaping consumer products but redefining the global economy. From AI breakthroughs to robotics innovations, the event highlights how new technologies are changing the way we work, move, and invest.

Brad Gastwirth from Circular Technologies joins us to share his insights on the biggest trends driving this transformation.

The event underscores the growing role of AI in shaping both market dynamics and consumer demand patterns, signalling a new era of innovation.

Robotics, mobility, and sustainability are also at the forefront. From real-time AI-driven mobility tech to energy-efficient computing, CES demonstrates how emerging technologies are integrating across sectors. Brad discusses the intersections of technology, sustainability, and capital expenditure, revealing how these trends are set to reshape productivity paradigms and sector leadership in the coming years.

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#CES2026 #AIRevolution #Robotics #Innovation #MobilityTech #SustainableTech #TechTrends #TickerNews

Tech

CES 2026 opens with AI powering the future of tech

AI dominates CES 2026 in Las Vegas, shaping future tech with smarter, personalized products for everyday use.

Published

4 days ago

January 8, 2026

Harvey Vargas

AI dominates CES 2026 in Las Vegas, shaping future tech with smarter, personalized products for everyday use.

The annual Consumer Electronics Show has officially opened in Las Vegas, with artificial intelligence taking centre stage across nearly every major product category on display. From consumer gadgets to enterprise tools, AI is shaping how technology is designed, used and experienced.

Major tech companies are showcasing smarter, faster and more personalised products, highlighting how AI is moving beyond concepts and into everyday applications. The focus this year is on practicality, efficiency, and seamless integration into daily life.

As CES continues, the event is setting the tone for where technology is heading in 2026, with AI no longer an add-on but a foundation for innovation.

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#CES2026 #ArtificialIntelligence #TechNews #Innovation #FutureTech #LasVegas #AIRevolution #Ticker