theverge--2020-08-07--How to use Microsoft Teams with your friends and family

It ’ s taken a while , especially considering the number of people who are looking for convenient ways to chat and videoconference these days , but Microsoft has finally created a version of its business Teams app for personal use .
The app , which is considered to be in preview , is currently only available for mobile devices ( iOS and Android ) .
You get 10GB of file storage for your “ team ” and 2GB of personal file storage per person .
What follows is a quick how-to on using Teams for communicating with friends and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ iOS and Android ; the two apps are extremely similar .
The only difference may be in the placement of , say , the “ Start new chat ” button .
The app offers a variety of ways to communicate : chat , audio-only , and video .
Everybody participating has to have the app on their device , and you also need a Microsoft account ( which is relatively simple to sign up for ) .
• To begin , download the Microsoft Teams app from the iOS App Store or Google @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Microsoft account ; if you don ’ t have one , you can sign up at this point .
It ’ s free .
• If your workplace uses Microsoft Office , you will be asked to either select your organization or to create a personal account .
In this case , tap on “ Personal.
” • At this point , you ’ re told that others will be able to find you either using your phone number or your Microsoft email address .
This information isn ’ t made public anywhere @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other ( and who hopefully know you ) will be able to use them to connect with you on Teams .
• The next screen allows you to sync your contacts with the Team app .
It ’ s not required .
Now you ’ re at the main screen for Teams .
Tap on the pencil / paper icon to start a conversation .
Teams lets you chat via text , audio , or video .
A series of icons along the bottom let you check in on your various activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go to a chat , access your calendar , or your OneDrive files .
A “ More ” icon at the end gives you access to your camera ( letting you take photos , copy business cards , etc . )
, see a list of your calls and tasks , and use a “ safe ” to store sensitive information in an encrypted section .
Finally , a three-line icon on the side lets you set your availability and a status message , leads to your settings , and lets you set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ start a chat , tap on the “ Chat ” icon .
The page will list people or groups of people you 've recently chatted with ; select one to start a new conversation .
To start a session with a new person , tap on the pencil / paper icon and you ’ ll be invited to enter the person ’ s name , phone number , or email address .
( You can allow Teams to access your contacts to make things a bit easier . )
You can also start @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and name the group for use again .
Once you ’ ve identified the person or persons you want to chat with , select “ Send invite.
” They ’ ll get a notice that you ’ re starting a chat , and they ’ ll be invited to download Teams ( assuming they haven ’ t done so already ) .
After they ’ ve signed in , you will receive a notice that they want to chat with you , and you can either accept or block it .
Teams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beta , works very nicely and has some interesting features .
Two icons to the left of the message bar let you insert either a photo or an audio clip into the chat .
( Note : when you create an audio clip using the app , you have to keep holding down the app ’ s “ record ” button until your message is done . )
Above the chat area , video and phone icons let you turn the chat into either a video session or an audio-only session .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; the audio session simply blocks the cameras of the participants .
Currently , available features for video conversations are somewhat limited .
There is no recording feature ( although there is screen sharing ) , and you can ’ t alter the size or even the placement of the videos .
Of course , Microsoft is calling this a preview ; additional tweaks may come in time .
Meanwhile , Teams ’ ease of use and its integration with Microsoft ’ s calendar and OneDrive apps could make it very handy for @ @ @

It’s taken a while, especially considering the number of people who are looking for convenient ways to chat and videoconference these days, but Microsoft has finally created a version of its business Teams app for personal use. The app, which is considered to be in preview, is currently only available for mobile devices (iOS and Android). You get 10GB of file storage for your “team” and 2GB of personal file storage per person.
What follows is a quick how-to on using Teams for communicating with friends and family. It is available for both iOS and Android; the two apps are extremely similar. The only difference may be in the placement of, say, the “Start new chat” button.
The app offers a variety of ways to communicate: chat, audio-only, and video. Everybody participating has to have the app on their device, and you also need a Microsoft account (which is relatively simple to sign up for).
To begin, download the Microsoft Teams app from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Sign in with your Microsoft account; if you don’t have one, you can sign up at this point. It’s free.
If your workplace uses Microsoft Office, you will be asked to either select your organization or to create a personal account. In this case, tap on “Personal.”
At this point, you’re told that others will be able to find you either using your phone number or your Microsoft email address. This information isn’t made public anywhere, but those who have one or the other (and who hopefully know you) will be able to use them to connect with you on Teams.
The next screen allows you to sync your contacts with the Team app. It’s not required.
Now you’re at the main screen for Teams. Tap on the pencil / paper icon to start a conversation. Teams lets you chat via text, audio, or video.
Along the bottom of Teams’ main screen are a variety of features. The menu icon lets you advertise your availability, among other tasks.
A series of icons along the bottom let you check in on your various activities (such as task updates), go to a chat, access your calendar, or your OneDrive files. A “More” icon at the end gives you access to your camera (letting you take photos, copy business cards, etc.), see a list of your calls and tasks, and use a “safe” to store sensitive information in an encrypted section.
Finally, a three-line icon on the side lets you set your availability and a status message, leads to your settings, and lets you set notifications, among other features.
To begin a chat, you can select a previous participant or tap the pencil icon for a new one. Chats can include text, photos, and audio.
To start a chat, tap on the “Chat” icon. The page will list people or groups of people you've recently chatted with; select one to start a new conversation. To start a session with a new person, tap on the pencil / paper icon and you’ll be invited to enter the person’s name, phone number, or email address. (You can allow Teams to access your contacts to make things a bit easier.) You can also start a group chat with up to 20 people and name the group for use again.
Once you’ve identified the person or persons you want to chat with, select “Send invite.” They’ll get a notice that you’re starting a chat, and they’ll be invited to download Teams (assuming they haven’t done so already). After they’ve signed in, you will receive a notice that they want to chat with you, and you can either accept or block it.
When you make a video or audio call, a caller can be put on hold. Teams’ video meeting features are basic but effective.
Teams’ chat app, especially for a beta, works very nicely and has some interesting features. Two icons to the left of the message bar let you insert either a photo or an audio clip into the chat. (Note: when you create an audio clip using the app, you have to keep holding down the app’s “record” button until your message is done.)
Above the chat area, video and phone icons let you turn the chat into either a video session or an audio-only session. There are no real differences between the two; the audio session simply blocks the cameras of the participants.
Currently, available features for video conversations are somewhat limited. There is no recording feature (although there is screen sharing), and you can’t alter the size or even the placement of the videos. Of course, Microsoft is calling this a preview; additional tweaks may come in time.


theverge--2020-08-07--TikTok says Trump’s ban attempt shows ‘no adherence to the law’

TikTok has hit back at President Trump ’ s executive order to ban all transactions with its parent company ByteDance from September 20th , saying it shows “ no adherence to the law.
” The Chinese firm says the executive order was issued “ without any due process ” after a year in which it claims it has tried to address the US government ’ s concerns over its app .
TikTok suggests it intends to challenge the order in US courts .
“ We will pursue all remedies available to us in order to ensure that the rule of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company and our users are treated fairly — if not by the Administration , then by the US courts.
” It adds that the order “ risks undermining global businesses ’ trust in the United States ’ commitment to the rule of law.
” TikTok says it ’ s tried to work with the US government to address its concerns The response comes after Trump signed an executive order attempting to address national security concerns leveled at TikTok .
The order says that Chinese-developed apps like TikTok “ threaten the national security , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United States.
” President Trump took the unusual move of citing the International Emergency Economic Powers Act along with the National Emergencies Act as providing the authority for the order .
However , sanctions against individuals and corporations , like placing them on the “ entity list , ” normally come from the Commerce Department rather than the White House , or via the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States .
Both processes appear to have not been used in ByteDance ’ s case .
TikTok says the order sets a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free expression and open markets.
” It adds that it ’ s tried to engage constructively with the US government over the issues raised , and has offered solutions like opening up its algorithm and providing more transparency about its moderation policies .
“ We have made clear that TikTok has never shared user data with the Chinese government , nor censored content at its request , ” TikTok says .
“ We even expressed our willingness to pursue a full sale of the US business to an American company , ” TikTok @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is in discussions with Microsoft over a possible sale of the service ’ s operations in the United States , Canada , Australia , and New Zealand .
These discussions are due to complete on September 15th , around five days before the executive order is due to come into effect .
TikTok is a community full of creativity and passion , a home that brings joy to families and meaningful careers to creators .
And we are building this platform for the long term .
TikTok will be here for many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the recent Executive Order , which was issued without any due process .
For nearly a year , we have sought to engage with the US government in good faith to provide a constructive solution to the concerns that have been expressed .
What we encountered instead was that the Administration paid no attention to facts , dictated terms of an agreement without going through standard legal processes , and tried to insert itself into negotiations between private businesses .
We made clear our intentions to work with the appropriate officials to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , creators , partners , employees , and the broader community in the United States .
There has been , and continues to be , no due process or adherence to the law .
The text of the decision makes it plain that there has been a reliance on unnamed “ reports ” with no citations , fears that the app “ may be ” used for misinformation campaigns with no substantiation of such fears , and concerns about the collection of data that is industry standard for thousands of mobile apps around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that TikTok has never shared user data with the Chinese government , nor censored content at its request .
In fact , we make our moderation guidelines and algorithm source code available in our Transparency Center , which is a level of accountability no peer company has committed to .
We even expressed our willingness to pursue a full sale of the US business to an American company .
This Executive Order risks undermining global businesses ’ trust in the United States ’ commitment to the rule of law , which has served @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decades of American economic growth .
And it sets a dangerous precedent for the concept of free expression and open markets .
We will pursue all remedies available to us in order to ensure that the rule of law is not discarded and that our company and our users are treated fairly – if not by the Administration , then by the US courts .
We want the 100 million Americans who love our platform because it is your home for expression , entertainment , and connection to know : TikTok has never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our commitment to you .
We prioritize your safety , security , and the trust of our community – always .
As TikTok users , creators , partners , and family , you have the right to express your opinions to your elected representatives , including the White House .
You have the right to be heard .

TikTok is a community full of creativity and passion, a home that brings joy to families and meaningful careers to creators. And we are building this platform for the long term. TikTok will be here for many years to come.
We are shocked by the recent Executive Order, which was issued without any due process. For nearly a year, we have sought to engage with the US government in good faith to provide a constructive solution to the concerns that have been expressed. What we encountered instead was that the Administration paid no attention to facts, dictated terms of an agreement without going through standard legal processes, and tried to insert itself into negotiations between private businesses.
We made clear our intentions to work with the appropriate officials to devise a solution to benefit our users, creators, partners, employees, and the broader community in the United States. There has been, and continues to be, no due process or adherence to the law. The text of the decision makes it plain that there has been a reliance on unnamed “reports” with no citations, fears that the app “may be” used for misinformation campaigns with no substantiation of such fears, and concerns about the collection of data that is industry standard for thousands of mobile apps around the world. We have made clear that TikTok has never shared user data with the Chinese government, nor censored content at its request. In fact, we make our moderation guidelines and algorithm source code available in our Transparency Center, which is a level of accountability no peer company has committed to. We even expressed our willingness to pursue a full sale of the US business to an American company.
This Executive Order risks undermining global businesses’ trust in the United States’ commitment to the rule of law, which has served as a magnet for investment and spurred decades of American economic growth. And it sets a dangerous precedent for the concept of free expression and open markets. We will pursue all remedies available to us in order to ensure that the rule of law is not discarded and that our company and our users are treated fairly – if not by the Administration, then by the US courts.
We want the 100 million Americans who love our platform because it is your home for expression, entertainment, and connection to know: TikTok has never, and will never, waver in our commitment to you. We prioritize your safety, security, and the trust of our community – always. As TikTok users, creators, partners, and family, you have the right to express your opinions to your elected representatives, including the White House. You have the right to be heard.


theverge--2020-08-07--Facebook slams Apple’s App Store policies, launches Facebook Gaming on iOS without games

Facebook is joining Microsoft in condemning Apple ’ s App Store policies today .
The social media company is launching its Facebook Gaming app for iOS — primarily an app used to watch streamers play video games — but has had to remove the app ’ s mini games feature to pass Apple ’ s strict App Store approval process .
Facebook isn ’ t happy about the compromise .
“ Unfortunately , we had to remove gameplay functionality entirely in order to get Apple ’ s approval on the standalone Facebook Gaming app — meaning iOS users have an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said Sheryl Sandberg , Facebook ’ s chief operating officer in a press statement given to The Verge .
“ We ’ re staying focused on building communities for the more than 380 million people who play games on Facebook every month — whether Apple allows it in a standalone app or not.
” Facebook says it has had the Facebook Gaming app rejected multiple times by Apple in recent months .
The company says Apple has cited App Store guideline 4.7 to justify the rejections , claiming the primary purpose of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games .
Facebook says it shared usage data from its Android Facebook Gaming app that showed 95 percent of activity is watching streams , but this didn ’ t change Apple ’ s stance .
Apple unveiled an appeal process for situations like this at WWDC back in June , but Facebook says it tried this and failed to convince Apple to overturn its decision .
“ We even appealed the guideline under the new app review process announced at WWDC , ” says a Facebook spokesperson .
“ We did not receive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to give up and remove games entirely from the standalone app launching on iOS today .
The Facebook Gaming app is primarily used to watch streams of games , much like Twitch is used on both iOS and Android .
But on Android , the app also includes a number of mini games from Facebook ’ s Instant Games platform .
That ’ s what Apple won ’ t allow .
This isn ’ t the first time that Facebook has run into App Store issues , either .
“ Even on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ ve been forced to bury Instant Games for years on iOS , ” explains Facebook Gaming chief Vivek Sharma in a statement to The Verge .
“ This is shared pain across the games industry , which ultimately hurts players and devs and severely hamstrings innovation on mobile for other types of formats , like cloud gaming.
” Apple is facing growing criticism from rivals and the gaming industry to loosen its App Store restrictions .
Microsoft was forced to cut its xCloud iOS testing earlier this week , after App @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from launching the app for months .
Microsoft took the unusual decision to condemn Apple yesterday , saying “ Apple stands alone as the only general purpose platform to deny consumers from cloud gaming and game subscription services like Xbox Game Pass.
” Apple has defended its decision to block cloud gaming services like xCloud , Stadia , and GeForce Now from the App Store .
“ Our customers enjoy great apps and games from millions of developers , and gaming services can absolutely launch on the App Store as long as they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all developers , including submitting games individually for review , and appearing in charts and search , ” said an Apple spokesperson in a statement yesterday .
Apple ’ s argument is that the company can ’ t individually review games offered on streaming services , but the company doesn ’ t seem to have the same issues with services like Netflix or YouTube that stream millions of videos , TV shows , and movies to Apple ’ s iOS devices that Apple can ’ t possibly review .
Apple ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months after the company was embroiled in a bitter battle over the new Hey email app .
Apple eventually approved the app after the initial rejection drew widespread condemnation from lawmakers and developers .
Apple is part of a number of US tech companies currently facing potential antitrust action .
The EU has also opened up a formal antitrust investigation into Apple ’ s App Store and Apple Pay practices .
With Microsoft and Facebook openly criticizing Apple , the company is bound to face even more questions over its App Store policies @ @ @ @ @

Facebook is joining Microsoft in condemning Apple’s App Store policies today. The social media company is launching its Facebook Gaming app for iOS — primarily an app used to watch streamers play video games — but has had to remove the app’s mini games feature to pass Apple’s strict App Store approval process. Facebook isn’t happy about the compromise.
“Unfortunately, we had to remove gameplay functionality entirely in order to get Apple’s approval on the standalone Facebook Gaming app — meaning iOS users have an inferior experience to those using Android,” said Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook’s chief operating officer in a press statement given to The Verge. “We’re staying focused on building communities for the more than 380 million people who play games on Facebook every month — whether Apple allows it in a standalone app or not.”
Facebook says it has had the Facebook Gaming app rejected multiple times by Apple in recent months. The company says Apple has cited App Store guideline 4.7 to justify the rejections, claiming the primary purpose of the Facebook Gaming app is to play games. Facebook says it shared usage data from its Android Facebook Gaming app that showed 95 percent of activity is watching streams, but this didn’t change Apple’s stance.
Facebook Gaming on iOS lacks its Instant Games. Facebook
Apple unveiled an appeal process for situations like this at WWDC back in June, but Facebook says it tried this and failed to convince Apple to overturn its decision. “We even appealed the guideline under the new app review process announced at WWDC,” says a Facebook spokesperson. “We did not receive a response.”
Facebook has now been forced to give up and remove games entirely from the standalone app launching on iOS today. The Facebook Gaming app is primarily used to watch streams of games, much like Twitch is used on both iOS and Android. But on Android, the app also includes a number of mini games from Facebook’s Instant Games platform. That’s what Apple won’t allow.
This isn’t the first time that Facebook has run into App Store issues, either. “Even on the main Facebook app and Messenger, we’ve been forced to bury Instant Games for years on iOS,” explains Facebook Gaming chief Vivek Sharma in a statement to The Verge. “This is shared pain across the games industry, which ultimately hurts players and devs and severely hamstrings innovation on mobile for other types of formats, like cloud gaming.”
Microsoft’s xCloud service. Photo by Tom Warren / The Verge
Apple is facing growing criticism from rivals and the gaming industry to loosen its App Store restrictions. Microsoft was forced to cut its xCloud iOS testing earlier this week, after App Store policies have been preventing the company from launching the app for months. Microsoft took the unusual decision to condemn Apple yesterday, saying “Apple stands alone as the only general purpose platform to deny consumers from cloud gaming and game subscription services like Xbox Game Pass.”
Apple has defended its decision to block cloud gaming services like xCloud, Stadia, and GeForce Now from the App Store. “Our customers enjoy great apps and games from millions of developers, and gaming services can absolutely launch on the App Store as long as they follow the same set of guidelines applicable to all developers, including submitting games individually for review, and appearing in charts and search,” said an Apple spokesperson in a statement yesterday.
Apple’s argument is that the company can’t individually review games offered on streaming services, but the company doesn’t seem to have the same issues with services like Netflix or YouTube that stream millions of videos, TV shows, and movies to Apple’s iOS devices that Apple can’t possibly review.


theverge--2020-08-07--Microsoft signals renewed interest in Windows with latest reshuffle

Microsoft is making some significant changes to the way it runs its Windows organization this week , signaling a renewed focus on the operating system that made its name .
The software giant placed Surface chief Panos Panay in charge of Windows earlier this year , and is now reshuffling parts of that team .
It follows Microsoft ’ s decision to slice Windows into two parts more than two years ago after the departure of former Windows chief Terry Myerson .
Microsoft moved core Windows development to a cloud and AI team ( Azure ) , and created a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ experiences ” like apps , the Start menu , and new features .
Now , Microsoft is moving parts of Windows development back under Panos Panay ’ s control .
Specifically , that means the Windows fundamentals and developer experience teams have been returned to what we traditionally call the Windows team .
It ’ s an admission that the big Windows split didn ’ t work quite as planned .
We ’ ve seen plenty of evidence of that with a messy development experience for Windows 10 , delayed Windows updates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and lots of Windows update issues recently .
Thurrott.com has obtained an internal memo from Panos Panay that goes into detail on the changes being made here .
While some core parts of Windows , particularly the engineering side , will stay with the Azure division , Microsoft ’ s reshuffle is focused on cleaning up Windows to ship and update it reliably .
The changes also align Microsoft ’ s Project Reunion app work , bringing win32 and UWP apps closer together , with the Windows team .
Microsoft ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely with the core engineering side of Windows under Azure , but the reshuffle should make for more consistency and a greater focus on Windows inside Microsoft .
“ Windows is a partnership , ” says Panay .
“ Innovation and success are only possible through close collaboration with other teams across Microsoft.
” A bigger focus on Windows inside Microsoft comes during an ongoing pandemic that has proved how important the operating system is .
Windows usage has jumped as workers and students across the world turn to laptops and PCs over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PC shipments have also surged as businesses adapt to a new reality .
Microsoft recognized this change earlier this year , and shifted its Windows 10X operating system to focus on laptops over dual-screen devices .
Panay now says he ’ s “ pumped ” ( he ’ s always pumped ) to welcome new members to his Windows team .
“ With this team , with our partners , we are going to make magic together , ” says Panay in his internal memo .
Microsoft ’ s Windows and Devices business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focus on three areas according to the memo : • Deliver iconic experiences across Microsoft , lighting up both modern work and life .
• Grow the business of Windows and Surface , delivering the best of Microsoft and creating end-user pull .
• Lead the industry through innovation and technology , enabling our ecosystem of partners to thrive .
Microsoft ’ s focus on growing Windows and Surface is a good sign for Windows users .
Microsoft ’ s Surface business continues to grow in terms of revenue , and there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s own PCs .
A bigger focus on Windows and Surface should hopefully allow Microsoft to deliver on its promises for a better combination of hardware and software .
Microsoft has been working towards these design changes for years now , learning from its past mistakes .
With Panay taking more responsibility for Windows , we ’ re hoping to see more consistency with Microsoft ’ s Fluent design system across the OS and more reliability with the company ’ s monthly and yearly Windows updates .
It ’ s about time @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Microsoft is making some significant changes to the way it runs its Windows organization this week, signaling a renewed focus on the operating system that made its name.
The software giant placed Surface chief Panos Panay in charge of Windows earlier this year, and is now reshuffling parts of that team. It follows Microsoft’s decision to slice Windows into two parts more than two years ago after the departure of former Windows chief Terry Myerson. Microsoft moved core Windows development to a cloud and AI team (Azure), and created a new group to work on Windows 10 “experiences” like apps, the Start menu, and new features.
Now, Microsoft is moving parts of Windows development back under Panos Panay’s control. Specifically, that means the Windows fundamentals and developer experience teams have been returned to what we traditionally call the Windows team. It’s an admission that the big Windows split didn’t work quite as planned. We’ve seen plenty of evidence of that with a messy development experience for Windows 10, delayed Windows updates, a lack of major new features, and lots of Windows update issues recently.
Microsoft’s Panos Panay. Photo by Dan Seifert / The Verge
Thurrott.com has obtained an internal memo from Panos Panay that goes into detail on the changes being made here. While some core parts of Windows, particularly the engineering side, will stay with the Azure division, Microsoft’s reshuffle is focused on cleaning up Windows to ship and update it reliably. The changes also align Microsoft’s Project Reunion app work, bringing win32 and UWP apps closer together, with the Windows team.
Microsoft’s Windows team under Panay will still work closely with the core engineering side of Windows under Azure, but the reshuffle should make for more consistency and a greater focus on Windows inside Microsoft. “Windows is a partnership,” says Panay. “Innovation and success are only possible through close collaboration with other teams across Microsoft.”
A bigger focus on Windows inside Microsoft comes during an ongoing pandemic that has proved how important the operating system is. Windows usage has jumped as workers and students across the world turn to laptops and PCs over mobile phones to work from home. PC shipments have also surged as businesses adapt to a new reality. Microsoft recognized this change earlier this year, and shifted its Windows 10X operating system to focus on laptops over dual-screen devices.
Panay now says he’s “pumped” (he’s always pumped) to welcome new members to his Windows team. “With this team, with our partners, we are going to make magic together,” says Panay in his internal memo. Microsoft’s Windows and Devices business, headed by Panay, will now focus on three areas according to the memo:
Deliver iconic experiences across Microsoft, lighting up both modern work and life.
Grow the business of Windows and Surface, delivering the best of Microsoft and creating end-user pull.
Lead the industry through innovation and technology, enabling our ecosystem of partners to thrive.
Microsoft’s focus on growing Windows and Surface is a good sign for Windows users. Microsoft’s Surface business continues to grow in terms of revenue, and there are indications that businesses are adopting the company’s own PCs. A bigger focus on Windows and Surface should hopefully allow Microsoft to deliver on its promises for a better combination of hardware and software.


theverge--2020-08-07--Here’s how to make a claim in the $7.5M Google Plus security flaw settlement

Anyone in the United States who held a Google Plus account between January 1 , 2015 and April 2 , 2019 , and believes they were impacted by a security flaw that Google disclosed in 2018 can now register for a payout from a class action settlement .
The lawsuit has settled for a total of $ 7.5 million .
Each class action member is eligible for a payout of up to $ 12 after attorney fees and other costs are accounted for , although this could vary depending on the number of people who submit a claim .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although Google said at the time that there was no evidence the exposed data was ever accessed , the company wasted no time in announcing that it would shut down its social network after publicly admitting the lapse .
When it announced the shutdown , Google said that its social network had seen “ low usage and engagement , ” which is unsurprising given it never really managed to compete against social media heavyweights like Facebook and Twitter .
Although it ’ s reached a settlement , Google denies the allegations made in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and believes that no users “ sustained any damages or injuries due to the software bugs.
” If you ’ re interested in making a claim , then you can do so over on the settlement ’ s website , where you ’ ll need to provide the email address associated with your Google Plus account .
As well as holding an account between the dates listed , your data must have been exposed as part of the security lapse ( Google has previously said that as many as 500,000 users were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is scheduled for November 19 .

Anyone in the United States who held a Google Plus account between January 1, 2015 and April 2, 2019, and believes they were impacted by a security flaw that Google disclosed in 2018 can now register for a payout from a class action settlement. The lawsuit has settled for a total of $7.5 million. Each class action member is eligible for a payout of up to $12 after attorney fees and other costs are accounted for, although this could vary depending on the number of people who submit a claim. You have until October 8 to register.
Although Google said at the time that there was no evidence the exposed data was ever accessed, the company wasted no time in announcing that it would shut down its social network after publicly admitting the lapse. When it announced the shutdown, Google said that its social network had seen “low usage and engagement,” which is unsurprising given it never really managed to compete against social media heavyweights like Facebook and Twitter.
Google denies any wrongdoing
Although it’s reached a settlement, Google denies the allegations made in the lawsuit. It denies any wrongdoing, and believes that no users “sustained any damages or injuries due to the software bugs.”


theverge--2020-08-06--Trump will prohibit transactions with ByteDance beginning September 20th in apparent TikTok ban

President Trump has signed a new executive order , which will block all transactions with ByteDance , TikTok ’ s parent corporation , in an effort to “ address the national emergency with respect to the information and communication technology supply chain.
” It isn ’ t effective immediately ; it has a 45-day deadline .
“ The spread [ of apps controlled by the Chinese government ] continues to threaten the national security , foreign policy , and economy of the United States , ” the order reads .
“ The United States must take aggressive action against the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security.
” A parallel order banned transactions with WeChat , a popular texting app in China that maintains a small user base in the US .
The move comes after months of escalating tensions , which saw Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and others at the White House warn that TikTok presented a national security threat because of its Chinese ownership .
On Friday , Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that he was preparing to sign some sort of order banning the app .
Those efforts have been complicated by discussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On Sunday , Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella confirmed that he had spoken with Trump about potentially acquiring the portions of TikTok based in the US , Canada , Australia , and New Zealand , although huge portions of the deal remain in flux .
The company also cautioned that discussions were still tentative and “ there can be no assurance that a transaction which involves Microsoft will proceed.
” Microsoft pledged to conclude discussions by September 15th , a date that has been echoed by President Trump .
Trump ’ s new order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after its release or September 20th — just after the deadline set for negotiations in the Microsoft deal .
In both orders , the president names the International Emergency Economic Powers Act as authority for the move , as well as the National Emergencies Act — effectively naming TikTok ’ s continued operation within the United States as a national emergency .
Such a move is highly unusual , and will likely be subject to a legal challenge .
The executive branch has the power to levy sanctions against individuals and corporations by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” as the US did against Huawei and ZTE last year .
But such sanctions are typically put in place by the Commerce Department rather than the White House , and subject to a specific rule-making procedure that seems to have been short-circuited by the surprise executive order .
The president also has the power to force the divestiture of US companies from foreign ownership through the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States ( or CFIUS ) .
But doing so also requires a specific process that seems to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive order .
It ’ s unclear how the order will affect TikTok ’ s ability to operate in the short term .
Unlike Huawei and ZTE , the company does not require licenses to operate its network , and nothing in the order seems to require app stores to cease hosting the app .
However , it explicitly covers subsidiaries of ByteDance — specifically the US-based TikTok division — and will apply to any and all financial transfers to and from those subsidiaries .
As a result , TikTok is likely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court , or be forced to abruptly discontinue services as it takes effect .

President Trump has signed a new executive order, which will block all transactions with ByteDance, TikTok’s parent corporation, in an effort to “address the national emergency with respect to the information and communication technology supply chain.” It isn’t effective immediately; it has a 45-day deadline.
“The spread [of apps controlled by the Chinese government] continues to threaten the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States,” the order reads. “The United States must take aggressive action against the owners of TikTok to protect our national security.”
A parallel order banned transactions with WeChat, a popular texting app in China that maintains a small user base in the US.
The move comes after months of escalating tensions, which saw Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and others at the White House warn that TikTok presented a national security threat because of its Chinese ownership. On Friday, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that he was preparing to sign some sort of order banning the app.
Those efforts have been complicated by discussions of a potential sale to Microsoft. On Sunday, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella confirmed that he had spoken with Trump about potentially acquiring the portions of TikTok based in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, although huge portions of the deal remain in flux. The company also cautioned that discussions were still tentative and “there can be no assurance that a transaction which involves Microsoft will proceed.”
Microsoft pledged to conclude discussions by September 15th, a date that has been echoed by President Trump. Trump’s new order is set to take effect 45 days after its release or September 20th — just after the deadline set for negotiations in the Microsoft deal.
In both orders, the president names the International Emergency Economic Powers Act as authority for the move, as well as the National Emergencies Act — effectively naming TikTok’s continued operation within the United States as a national emergency. Such a move is highly unusual, and will likely be subject to a legal challenge.
The executive branch has the power to levy sanctions against individuals and corporations by placing them on the “entity list,” as the US did against Huawei and ZTE last year. But such sanctions are typically put in place by the Commerce Department rather than the White House, and subject to a specific rule-making procedure that seems to have been short-circuited by the surprise executive order.
The president also has the power to force the divestiture of US companies from foreign ownership through the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (or CFIUS). But doing so also requires a specific process that seems to have been discarded in favor of a broader executive order.


theverge--2020-08-07--SpaceX, ULA are the big winners for US national security launches

The US Department of Defense has selected its two primary rocket companies for getting satellites into orbit in the years ahead : long-time military launch provider United Launch Alliance ( ULA ) and SpaceX .
ULA will receive 60 percent of the department ’ s satellite launch contracts , while SpaceX will receive 40 percent .
The two companies beat out rivals Northrop Grumman and Blue Origin to launch DoD missions between fiscal years 2022 and 2027 .
This is a big prize , as each individual launch can cost over $ 100 million .
The DoD hasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over that five-year period , but they have awarded $ 316 million to SpaceX and $ 337 million to ULA “ to meet fiscal year 2022 launch dates ” , according to a DoD statement .
The two companies beat out rivals Northrop Grumman and Blue Origin “ This was an extremely tough decision and I appreciate the hard work industry completed to adapt their commercial launch systems to affordably and reliably meet our more stressing national security requirements , ” Col. Robert Bongiovi , director of the Space and Missile Systems Center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
There ’ s a milestone here , too : the end of this program ’ s use of the Atlas V rocket .
That rocket , made by ULA , relies on the Russian RD-180 engine .
But the Russian engines have been a political minefield ever since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2014 ; that year , NASA even suspended contact with Russia .
Since then , the DoD has been trying to phase out its reliance on Russian technology .
In 2018 , it awarded ULA , Northrop Grumman , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in contracts to develop next-generation rockets .
SpaceX wasn ’ t happy about that award — in 2019 they sued the government over the contract .
The company argued the award gave their competitors a leg up in getting awarded the launches .
In the end , the DoD passed over vehicles designed by Blue Origin and Northrop Grumman .
Instead , they picked SpaceX Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets , which have proven themselves in flight .
They also chose ULA ’ s future Vulcan Centaur rocket , which is currently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2021 .

The US Department of Defense has selected its two primary rocket companies for getting satellites into orbit in the years ahead: long-time military launch provider United Launch Alliance (ULA) and SpaceX. ULA will receive 60 percent of the department’s satellite launch contracts, while SpaceX will receive 40 percent.
The two companies beat out rivals Northrop Grumman and Blue Origin to launch DoD missions between fiscal years 2022 and 2027. This is a big prize, as each individual launch can cost over $100 million. The DoD hasn’t committed to an exact number of launches over that five-year period, but they have awarded $316 million to SpaceX and $337 million to ULA “to meet fiscal year 2022 launch dates”, according to a DoD statement.
The two companies beat out rivals Northrop Grumman and Blue Origin
“This was an extremely tough decision and I appreciate the hard work industry completed to adapt their commercial launch systems to affordably and reliably meet our more stressing national security requirements,” Col. Robert Bongiovi, director of the Space and Missile Systems Center Launch Enterprise, said in a statement.
SpaceX wasn’t happy about that award — in 2019 they sued the government over the contract. The company argued the award gave their competitors a leg up in getting awarded the launches.


theverge--2020-08-07--WarnerMedia undergoes major reorganization as HBO Max gets higher priority

Two of WarnerMedia ’ s top executives , Bob Greenblatt and Kevin Reilly , are leaving the company as CEO Jason Kilar begins to plan the company ’ s future with a tighter focus on HBO Max .
Greenblatt oversaw all of the company ’ s direct-to-consumer lines and oversaw WarnerMedia as a whole ; Kevin Reilly was WarnerMedia ’ s content chief .
He also served as president of TBS , TNT , and TruTV .
As part of the shakeup , Andy Forssell ( a former Hulu executive who worked alongside Kilar at the streaming company now owned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ HBO Max , according to The Hollywood Reporter .
With Greenblatt and Reilly out , Warner Bros. CEO Ann Sarnoff and HBO programming president Casey Bloys will oversee a new group combining WarnerMedia ’ s studios and networks .
The new group will combine “ original production ( content studios ) and programming capabilities currently spread across Warner Bros. , HBO , HBO Max , TNT , TBS and TruTV , ” according to a letter from Kilar to employees obtained by The Hollywood Reporter .
Kilar added that the new group “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motion picture development , production and programming ” to ensure HBO Max is “ successful globally.
” Effectively , WarnerMedia ’ s executives are even more all-in on HBO Max than they were before Effectively , WarnerMedia is even more all-in on HBO Max than it was before .
In his letter , Kilar emphasized priority around the company ’ s new streaming product , HBO Max .
That ’ s also what led to the reorganization .
Kilar explained in the letter that in order for WarnerMedia to succeed in a rapidly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a streaming-focused audience — it is “ vital that we change how we are organized , that we simplify , and that we act boldly and with urgency , ” he wrote .
“ Because of the gift that is the internet , we have what I believe is one of the greatest opportunities in the history of media , which is to deliver our beloved stories and experiences directly to hundreds of millions of consumers across the globe , ” Kilar wrote , adding , “ The pandemic ’ s economic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ places an even higher premium on these points.
” Kilar outlined the five steps WarnerMedia is taking to accomplish his goal of turning HBO Max into a much bigger product .
They include : 1 .
We are elevating HBO Max in the organization and expanding its scope globally .
2 .
We are simplifying how we organize our studios .
3 .
We are creating a consolidated International unit focused on scale and efficiency .
4 .
We are bringing our key commercial activities into one group to allow us to operate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making other structural changes that will help us operate more effectively and efficiently .
Meeting the goals above “ means that we will be reducing the size of our teams , our layers , and our overall workforce , ” Kilar wrote , acknowledging “ this is a lot to take in.
” That might be especially true for the team , considering Kilar joined WarnerMedia just a little over 90 days ago .
Greenblatt and Reilly are two of the most executive members of WarnerMedia ’ s team , and both have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ From 2003 to 2010 , Greenblatt served as Showtime ’ s president of entertainment — a period of time that saw shows like Dexter , Weeds , and Nurse Jackie air on the network .
He then became NBCUniversal ’ s chairman for many years , before moving over to WarnerMedia as chairman in March 2019 .
He was tasked with overseeing the launch of HBO Max .
Reilly , who started his career at NBC and helped develop Saved by the Bell and the pilot for ER , has touched just about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with stints at Fox , FX , and Turner before AT & T acquired TimeWarner in 2018 for $ 85 billion .
His contract was supposedly extended through 2022 , but “ rumors have swirled that WarnerMedia brass was considering an overhaul of HBO Max ’ s programming strategy , with Reilly under the microscope , ” according to The Hollywood Reporter .
HBO Max ’ s launch hasn ’ t gone as smoothly as executives at AT & T — and WarnerMedia — may have expected .
New AT & T CEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call a couple of weeks ago that HBO Max amassed 3 million new subscribers , and an additional million activations came through AT & T platforms ( including existing HBO subscribers who upgraded to Max for free ) .
“ Because of the gift that is the internet , we have what I believe is one of the greatest opportunities in the history of media ” That conversion rate is disappointing ; the company already had more than 30 million subscribers it could move over to HBO Max from its linear HBO customer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the call specifically noted it was difficult getting people who subscribed to HBO through cable packages to sign up for HBO Max , adding that it ’ s an area WarnerMedia wants to improve on in the future .
It didn ’ t help that much of HBO Max ’ s launch lineup was hindered by the pandemic , and not being on two of the most popular streaming devices , Amazon Fire or Roku , likely had a significant impact on initial signups .
Plus , HBO Max faced general consumer confusion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how it differed from HBO Now or HBO Go — and touted a much higher subscription cost ( $ 15 a month ) than its competitors .
These are all areas that Kilar and his reorganized team will focus on going forward , on top of an international expansion that the CEO mentioned in his letter .
The changes are not going to be easy , Kilar wrote , but he stressed how he views them as necessary to compete going forward .
“ That said , we are successfully navigating a pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging the above changes may be , we will also successfully navigate them as well , ” he wrote .

Two of WarnerMedia’s top executives, Bob Greenblatt and Kevin Reilly, are leaving the company as CEO Jason Kilar begins to plan the company’s future with a tighter focus on HBO Max.
Greenblatt oversaw all of the company’s direct-to-consumer lines and oversaw WarnerMedia as a whole; Kevin Reilly was WarnerMedia’s content chief. He also served as president of TBS, TNT, and TruTV. As part of the shakeup, Andy Forssell (a former Hulu executive who worked alongside Kilar at the streaming company now owned by Disney) will oversee all of HBO Max, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
With Greenblatt and Reilly out, Warner Bros. CEO Ann Sarnoff and HBO programming president Casey Bloys will oversee a new group combining WarnerMedia’s studios and networks. The new group will combine “original production (content studios) and programming capabilities currently spread across Warner Bros., HBO, HBO Max, TNT, TBS and TruTV,” according to a letter from Kilar to employees obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. Kilar added that the new group “will oversee all WarnerMedia television series and motion picture development, production and programming” to ensure HBO Max is “successful globally.”
Effectively, WarnerMedia’s executives are even more all-in on HBO Max than they were before
Effectively, WarnerMedia is even more all-in on HBO Max than it was before.
In his letter, Kilar emphasized priority around the company’s new streaming product, HBO Max. That’s also what led to the reorganization. Kilar explained in the letter that in order for WarnerMedia to succeed in a rapidly shifting industry — one that is shifting to a streaming-focused audience — it is “vital that we change how we are organized, that we simplify, and that we act boldly and with urgency,” he wrote.
“Because of the gift that is the internet, we have what I believe is one of the greatest opportunities in the history of media, which is to deliver our beloved stories and experiences directly to hundreds of millions of consumers across the globe,” Kilar wrote, adding, “The pandemic’s economic pressures and acceleration of direct-to-consumer streaming adoption places an even higher premium on these points.”
Kilar outlined the five steps WarnerMedia is taking to accomplish his goal of turning HBO Max into a much bigger product. They include:
1. We are elevating HBO Max in the organization and expanding its scope globally. 2. We are simplifying how we organize our studios. 3. We are creating a consolidated International unit focused on scale and efficiency. 4. We are bringing our key commercial activities into one group to allow us to operate more strategically. 5. We are making other structural changes that will help us operate more effectively and efficiently.
Meeting the goals above “means that we will be reducing the size of our teams, our layers, and our overall workforce,” Kilar wrote, acknowledging “this is a lot to take in.” That might be especially true for the team, considering Kilar joined WarnerMedia just a little over 90 days ago.
Greenblatt and Reilly are two of the most executive members of WarnerMedia’s team, and both have long storied careers within the industry. From 2003 to 2010, Greenblatt served as Showtime’s president of entertainment — a period of time that saw shows like Dexter, Weeds, and Nurse Jackie air on the network. He then became NBCUniversal’s chairman for many years, before moving over to WarnerMedia as chairman in March 2019. He was tasked with overseeing the launch of HBO Max.
Reilly, who started his career at NBC and helped develop Saved by the Bell and the pilot for ER, has touched just about every aspect of the television industry, with stints at Fox, FX, and Turner before AT&T acquired TimeWarner in 2018 for $85 billion. His contract was supposedly extended through 2022, but “rumors have swirled that WarnerMedia brass was considering an overhaul of HBO Max’s programming strategy, with Reilly under the microscope,” according to The Hollywood Reporter.
HBO Max’s launch hasn’t gone as smoothly as executives at AT&T — and WarnerMedia — may have expected. New AT&T CEO John Stankey told analysts on an earnings call a couple of weeks ago that HBO Max amassed 3 million new subscribers, and an additional million activations came through AT&T platforms (including existing HBO subscribers who upgraded to Max for free).
“Because of the gift that is the internet, we have what I believe is one of the greatest opportunities in the history of media”
That conversion rate is disappointing; the company already had more than 30 million subscribers it could move over to HBO Max from its linear HBO customer base and HBO Now. Stankey on the call specifically noted it was difficult getting people who subscribed to HBO through cable packages to sign up for HBO Max, adding that it’s an area WarnerMedia wants to improve on in the future.
It didn’t help that much of HBO Max’s launch lineup was hindered by the pandemic, and not being on two of the most popular streaming devices, Amazon Fire or Roku, likely had a significant impact on initial signups. Plus, HBO Max faced general consumer confusion over what the product actually was — how it differed from HBO Now or HBO Go — and touted a much higher subscription cost ($15 a month) than its competitors.
These are all areas that Kilar and his reorganized team will focus on going forward, on top of an international expansion that the CEO mentioned in his letter. The changes are not going to be easy, Kilar wrote, but he stressed how he views them as necessary to compete going forward.


theverge--2020-08-07--Have I Been Pwned — which tells you if passwords were breached — is going open source

These days , we almost take it as a given that piss-poor security will inevitably expose some of your usernames and passwords to the world — that ’ s why 2FA is so important , and why you might want a password checkup tool like the ones now built into every modern browser ( well , Safari is coming soon ) so you can quickly replace the ones that were stolen .
But nearly all of those password checkup tools owe something to Troy Hunt ’ s Have I Been Pwned , which was kind of a novel idea when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Hunt is now open-sourcing his website codebase so the idea can spread even further .
While not all password checkup tools actually use Hunt ’ s database ( a just-announced LastPass feature calls on one hosted by Enzoic instead ) , many of them are apparently based on the same “ k-Anonymity ” API that Cloudflare engineering manager Junade Ali originally designed to support Have I Been Pwned ’ s tool .
The important idea here is that you want to be able to tell users that their password has been breached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to figure out which passwords those are and make the breach even worse ; k-Anonymity uses math to make it harder for hackers .
But Hunt said last year that he doesn ’ t want to continue this all by himself , he wants the idea to expand , and after a failed attempt to get another company to acquire HIBP without compromising on a list of ideals , he ’ s now going to try to open it all up for the community to contribute .
Note , though , that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hunt writes that he doesn ’ t have a timeline for opening it up , partly because it ’ s in a messy state , and partly because he wants to make sure he can keep the databases of breached passwords themselves from falling into the wrong hands .
At this rate , I imagine it ’ ll happen before we manage to get rid of passwords altogether , but it might be a ways away .

These days, we almost take it as a given that piss-poor security will inevitably expose some of your usernames and passwords to the world — that’s why 2FA is so important, and why you might want a password checkup tool like the ones now built into every modern browser (well, Safari is coming soon) so you can quickly replace the ones that were stolen.
But nearly all of those password checkup tools owe something to Troy Hunt’s Have I Been Pwned, which was kind of a novel idea when it first launched 7 years ago — and Hunt is now open-sourcing his website codebase so the idea can spread even further.
While not all password checkup tools actually use Hunt’s database (a just-announced LastPass feature calls on one hosted by Enzoic instead), many of them are apparently based on the same “k-Anonymity” API that Cloudflare engineering manager Junade Ali originally designed to support Have I Been Pwned’s tool.
The important idea here is that you want to be able to tell users that their password has been breached without providing an opportunity for bad actors to figure out which passwords those are and make the breach even worse; k-Anonymity uses math to make it harder for hackers.
But Hunt said last year that he doesn’t want to continue this all by himself, he wants the idea to expand, and after a failed attempt to get another company to acquire HIBP without compromising on a list of ideals, he’s now going to try to open it all up for the community to contribute.


theverge--2020-08-07--VoteByMail makes it easier to request a mail-in ballot ahead of the election

A new website tries to streamline the process of signing up to vote by mail .
VoteByMail.io is a new service created by volunteers with work experience at several prominent companies , including Google , Intel , Dropbox , and Nike , that aims to help registered voters sign up for a mail-in ballot .
The site is available in nine languages , and VoteByMail has partnered with multiple state and national organizations , including Vote.org , to support the launch .
The site asks for your information , including your full address and name , and uses that information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create a letter requesting a vote-by-mail ballot .
After you fill it out , VoteByMail sends a copy of the request to the election official but also to you so you can see what was sent .
VoteByMail told The Verge that its website fully supports 16 states that allow you to email or fax a vote-by-mail request to your local official .
VoteByMail plans to add support for eight more states , in addition to Washington , DC and parts of Pennsylvania that support digital registration , in the future .
Due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states are emphasizing mail-in voting For the remaining states , VoteByMail integrates with Vote.org to help voters fill out the necessary form .
There ’ s an extra step , though : voters in these states will be required to print out and mail the document themselves .
Registering to vote by mail can be a tricky process that varies depending on the state you reside in .
You ’ ll often need to find the right website , the right form , fill in the correct info , and find the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ VoteByMail streamlines the process by finding your local election official , assembling some basic information needed to request a ballot , and sending the whole thing off for you .
You should still check with your local board of elections if you do not receive a mail-in ballot , to ensure you can vote when election season arrives .
VoteByMail does collect some of your personal information in the process of requesting your ballot .
VoteByMail told The Verge this information is collected so that it can measure the effectiveness of its outreach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election officials accountable if they fail to lawfully process vote-by-mail signups .
VoteByMail says the website is built on “ some of the most secure cloud technologies available , ” so that your data is secured on its database .
Due to the pandemic , a lot of states are emphasizing mail-in voting because of the infection risks posed by going to the polls .
Some states made it easier to vote without going to the polls due to the pandemic , while others have turned to vote by mail only .

A new website tries to streamline the process of signing up to vote by mail.
VoteByMail.io is a new service created by volunteers with work experience at several prominent companies, including Google, Intel, Dropbox, and Nike, that aims to help registered voters sign up for a mail-in ballot. The site is available in nine languages, and VoteByMail has partnered with multiple state and national organizations, including Vote.org, to support the launch.
The site asks for your information, including your full address and name, and uses that information to locate your local election official and create a letter requesting a vote-by-mail ballot. After you fill it out, VoteByMail sends a copy of the request to the election official but also to you so you can see what was sent.
VoteByMail told The Verge that its website fully supports 16 states that allow you to email or fax a vote-by-mail request to your local official. VoteByMail plans to add support for eight more states, in addition to Washington, DC and parts of Pennsylvania that support digital registration, in the future.
Due to the pandemic, a lot of states are emphasizing mail-in voting
For the remaining states, VoteByMail integrates with Vote.org to help voters fill out the necessary form. There’s an extra step, though: voters in these states will be required to print out and mail the document themselves.
Registering to vote by mail can be a tricky process that varies depending on the state you reside in. You’ll often need to find the right website, the right form, fill in the correct info, and find the right election official to submit the paperwork. VoteByMail streamlines the process by finding your local election official, assembling some basic information needed to request a ballot, and sending the whole thing off for you. You should still check with your local board of elections if you do not receive a mail-in ballot, to ensure you can vote when election season arrives.
VoteByMail does collect some of your personal information in the process of requesting your ballot. VoteByMail told The Verge this information is collected so that it can measure the effectiveness of its outreach, obtain user feedback, and hold election officials accountable if they fail to lawfully process vote-by-mail signups. VoteByMail says the website is built on “some of the most secure cloud technologies available,” so that your data is secured on its database.


theverge--2020-08-07--HBO Max and Ava DuVernay are making a series based on the @OnePerfectShot Twitter account

Ava DuVernay is partnering with HBO Max and the team behind Twitter ’ s popular One Perfect Shot account to create a half-hour documentary series of the same name , the company announced today .
One Perfect Shot will look at an iconic shot from different films , with the directors of those films walking viewers through a detailed breakdown of how it came to be .
Each episode will feature a different director “ walking through the scene in 360 moments that allow viewers to join an immersive exploration of moviemaking , ” according to a press release .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a celebration of cinematography .
DuVernay , who directed A Wrinkle in Time , Selma , 13th , and created Netflix ’ s When They See Us , is set to narrate and executive produce the series .
One Perfect Shot is designed around the actual act of filmmaking — the technology and behind-the-scenes work that goes into making movies .
“ I ’ ve long wanted to create a series about the art of directing , ” DuVernay said .
“ To chronicle the craft of great filmmakers is a dream come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at ARRAY Filmworks.
” The One Perfect Shot Twitter account , which has just over 560,000 followers , was started in 2013 by filmmaker Geoff Todd .
In 2016 , the account ’ s ownership was given to publisher Neil Miller and became a part of the Film School Rejects portfolio .
Since then , the account has grown and Miller has launched a newsletter under the same name to further talk about the art of filmmaking .
Here ’ s a brief excerpt on why Miller and Todd believe that One Perfect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has online : We ’ re fans of the work .
We obsess over every scene , every frame , and every filmmaking technique .
We ’ re often attracted to sophisticated , detail-oriented filmmaking and storytelling .
We love filmmakers who use the entire frame , regardless of their medium .
And most of all , we love learning about the craft of filmmaking .
Whether it ’ s the director ’ s commentary track on a home video release , a deep-dive essay that explains a filmmaking technique , a thoughtful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone who works on set , we are always seeking to learn about how the things we love are made .
There ’ s no estimated premiere date for the show or a list of which directors are attached right now .

Ava DuVernay is partnering with HBO Max and the team behind Twitter’s popular One Perfect Shot account to create a half-hour documentary series of the same name, the company announced today.
One Perfect Shot will look at an iconic shot from different films, with the directors of those films walking viewers through a detailed breakdown of how it came to be. Each episode will feature a different director “walking through the scene in 360 moments that allow viewers to join an immersive exploration of moviemaking,” according to a press release. Essentially, think of the show as a celebration of cinematography. DuVernay, who directed A Wrinkle in Time, Selma, 13th, and created Netflix’s When They See Us, is set to narrate and executive produce the series. One Perfect Shot is designed around the actual act of filmmaking — the technology and behind-the-scenes work that goes into making movies.
“I’ve long wanted to create a series about the art of directing,” DuVernay said. “To chronicle the craft of great filmmakers is a dream come true for me and all of us at ARRAY Filmworks.”
The One Perfect Shot Twitter account, which has just over 560,000 followers, was started in 2013 by filmmaker Geoff Todd. In 2016, the account’s ownership was given to publisher Neil Miller and became a part of the Film School Rejects portfolio. Since then, the account has grown and Miller has launched a newsletter under the same name to further talk about the art of filmmaking. Here’s a brief excerpt on why Miller and Todd believe that One Perfect Shot has become as popular as it has online:
We’re fans of the work. We obsess over every scene, every frame, and every filmmaking technique. We’re often attracted to sophisticated, detail-oriented filmmaking and storytelling. We love filmmakers who use the entire frame, regardless of their medium. And most of all, we love learning about the craft of filmmaking. Whether it’s the director’s commentary track on a home video release, a deep-dive essay that explains a filmmaking technique, a thoughtful video essay, or a conversation with anyone who works on set, we are always seeking to learn about how the things we love are made.


theverge--2020-08-07--Many Reddit communities vandalized with pro-Trump content, possibly due to compromised moderator acc

Many Reddit communities vandalized with pro-Trump content, possibly due to compromised moderator accounts

A number of subreddits were taken over and vandalized on Friday , possibly as part of a coordinated campaign .
Hackers reportedly posted messages or changed a subreddit ’ s design in support of President Donald Trump .
“ An investigation is underway related to a series of vandalized communities , ” a Reddit spokesperson said in a statement to The Verge .
“ It appears the source of the attacks were compromised moderator accounts .
We are working to lock down those accounts and restore impacted communities.
” It ’ s unclear right now how the accounts were compromised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of subreddits that were affected , and many were quite popular , including r/CFB , r/food , r/Japan , r/nfl , r/podcasts , and r/space .
It appears that subreddits are in the process of reverting back to normal , and some moderators have posted messages noting that their subreddit was compromised .
The attack on Reddit marks another moment in an increasingly worrying trend of social media accounts being hijacked .
Twitter fell prey to an unprecedented hack in mid-July , resulting in some of the social network ’ s most notable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bitcoin scam .
( Three people have been charged in connection with that attack . )
And some YouTube accounts have been compromised in recent days to show “ live streams ” that are actually bitcoin scams .

A number of subreddits were taken over and vandalized on Friday, possibly as part of a coordinated campaign. Hackers reportedly posted messages or changed a subreddit’s design in support of President Donald Trump.
“An investigation is underway related to a series of vandalized communities,” a Reddit spokesperson said in a statement to The Verge. “It appears the source of the attacks were compromised moderator accounts. We are working to lock down those accounts and restore impacted communities.”
What r/Japan looked like when it was vandalized. Image: r/Japan
It’s unclear right now how the accounts were compromised. A post on r/subredditdrama listed dozens of subreddits that were affected, and many were quite popular, including r/CFB, r/food, r/Japan, r/nfl, r/podcasts, and r/space. It appears that subreddits are in the process of reverting back to normal, and some moderators have posted messages noting that their subreddit was compromised.


theverge--2020-08-07--The best free apps for video calling

The best free apps for video calling

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to limit face-to-face association , most of us are relying on video calls to keep in touch with work colleagues , family , and friends — and if you ’ re also facing financial difficulties , free is best .
Zoom continues to top the list of videoconferencing apps , but there are a bunch of applications out there that will allow you to meet others online for free .
We ’ ve listed a few of the best known videoconferencing apps , along with a couple of popular text chat apps that include video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already have free versions , some are offering access to additional features for those who are currently working from home or who want to check up on friends and relatives online .
There are a number of apps we have not included , such as Facebook , WhatsApp , and FaceTime , that allow you to do video chats .
We ’ ve left them out because they require that all participants be members of a specific social network ( Facebook , WhatsApp ) or that you use a specific type of device @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We ’ ve also tried to concentrate on applications that allow you to participate without having to download the app ( unless you ’ re the host ) .
A good idea is to try one or two out for yourself to see how well they fit in with your style and those of your friends .
This list , however , is a good place to start .
Zoom has become one of the most well-known videoconferencing apps , largely because of its easy-to-use interface .
Originally , the company pushed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has also provided a free basic version for individuals .
At first , because Zoom didn ’ t expect its sudden popularity among non-business users , there were several missteps involving privacy and security .
However , the company quickly instituted a number of changes and updates to address these issues ( including , most recently , end-to-end encryption for its free users ) .
And its popularity doesn ’ t appear to have suffered .
The free version of Zoom allows up to 100 users to meet , but there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than two people , which is , for many of us , pretty limiting .
As of this writing , Zoom was not offering any special deals for those now working at home , but it does have a page offering help and advice to new users .
Skype has been the go-to platform for one-on-one conversations since the beta was released in 2003 .
Its Meet Now feature ( which is accessed by choosing the “ Meet Now ” button on the left side of the app ) allows videoconferencing ; up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time limits on meetings .
There is also a separate page that lets you create a free video meeting without having to actually sign up for the service .
However , you get more features using the app , so if you ’ re okay with registering for a free account , you ’ re better off doing that .
• Record the call for up to 30 days • Can blur the background ( if you have the app ) • Up to 50 participants , no time limit Webex is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ‘ 90s ; it was acquired by Cisco in 2007 .
While it ’ s been mainly known as a business application and continues to focus on serving companies , it does have a fairly generous free version that ’ s worth checking out .
For the current emergency , it has widened the features of the freemium version from 50 to 100 participants , and you can meet for up to 50 minutes .
• Up to 50 minutes for each meeting Now being featured on your Gmail page Until recently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) was only available to educators and those subscribing to Google ’ s paid service , G Suite .
Since then , Google has made Meet available to all users of its free Gmail service — in fact , it has added a link to Meet on the left side of its Gmail online app ( and is rolling it out to its mobile apps as well ) .
Meet offers a very simple way to video chat with colleagues , friends , and family — assuming they all have Google accounts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and participants .
To start , simply go to Meet , click on “ Join or start a meeting , ” give the meeting a name ( if you want ) , and send out your invites .
You can also schedule a meeting using Google Calendar , and Google includes a number of security features such as the ability to admit or deny entry .
A new mobile version not just for business Microsoft Teams was built as a competitor to Slack and is an especially good idea if you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently , it was mainly focused on business use .
However , Microsoft has now stepped out of its three-piece suit and unveiled a free personal version of Teams that works on iPhones and Android devices ( no desktop yet ) , and lets anyone chat , talk , or have video meetings with up to 20 people .
You just have to create an account with Microsoft in order to use it .
• Create groups of up to 20 people You don ’ t really expect Google to only offer one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Besides Google Meet ( which is slowly replacing Hangouts , and which was originally meant to be mainly for business users ) , Google also has its mobile app Duo , which was built as a consumer app .
The company recently added invite links to Duo , along with a very basic web interface .
In addition , the app now allows you to create groups of up to 12 participants ( but only on its mobile versions ) .
All participants must be Duo users , which can be an issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of up to 12 people Slowly being sunset , but still useful And finally , there ’ s Google Hangouts the “ classic ” version , which is still available , although the company is not promoting it , especially to G Suite users and corporate customers who are being encouraged to use Meet .
All that being said , if you ’ re feeling old-fashioned , you can use Hangouts to video chat with up to 10 people if you ’ re using Gmail or G Suite Basic ( up to 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or educational G Suite versions ) .
There aren ’ t a lot of additional features .
You can add text messages and share screens , but that ’ s about it .
Still , if you want quick and easy , this is worth checking out .
• Up to 10 participants for Gmail users • Voice conversations can have up to 150 participants If you ’ re not a company , you may not have heard of StarLeaf .
It ’ s a platform for large companies — the kind that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its website ; you have to call a salesperson .
But it is now offering its basic video and messaging product free of charge for those trying to keep in touch during the pandemic .
Another “ you probably haven ’ t heard of it ” videoconference app , Jitsi Meet is an open-source platform that lets you easily meet online by simply navigating to the site and clicking on “ Go.
” If you ’ re more technically inclined , you can build your own via Jitsu Videobridge , but most people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ version , which offers many features found in more well-known apps , such as chat , session recording ( to Dropbox ) , and the ability to “ kick out ” unruly participants .
• Up to 75 participants ( up to 35 for the best experience ) • Can blur the background ( currently in beta ) Single meeting rooms with up to four participants Whereby ’ s free version is rather limited compared to some others mentioned here .
It gives you the use of a single meeting room with up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability to lock rooms ( participants have to “ knock ” to gain entrance ) .
Each room has its own URL that you get to choose , which is great — assuming that nobody else has already taken that name .
( For example , I tried whereby.com/testroom and found it was already taken . )
But it also has a chat function , lets you share a screen , mute or eject users , and has some fun emoji .
If you have more people in mind , the Pro version @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 12 participants per room in up to three meeting rooms .
• Up to four participants in free version Spike is an email app that has been adding collaborative features since I reviewed it last year .
With the current demand for online meetings , the company has recently added videoconferencing to its repertoire .
The feature is very easy to use , especially since you don ’ t need to register or install anything to use it .
Just go to the videoconferencing link , type in your name , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The meeting URL is then copied to your clipboard , or you can send an invite via email .
There are few extras in this app : you can share your screen or stick up an emoji , but that ’ s about it , and the host has no control over the meeting .
There are no limits on the number of participants or meeting time .
• No limits on participants or meeting times There is a wide range of other Zoom alternatives out there , as listed in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Highfive , and 8x8 ( which acquired Jitsi in 2018 ) .
Some of these don ’ t have a free version ; for example , BlueJeans , a more well-known option , starts at $ 9.99 per month for unlimited-time meetings with up to 50 participants .
Slack is mainly set up for text chat , but it does give you the ability to make voice and video calls as well .
If you ’ re on the free version of Slack , you can make a video call to an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ host a meeting between several people , as opposed to a one-on-one conversation , and want to do it for free , you ’ ll need to look for an alternative .
Special mention should be made of Houseparty , a popular consumer app that lets up to eight people use a virtual room to chat .
In fact , anybody can drop into a friend ’ s online session without an invitation ( although you can “ lock ” your room to prevent intruders ) .
However , it does demand that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it — and registration includes your name , email address , birthdate , and phone number .
So we didn ’ t include it among our recommendations .
Update June 12th , 9:27AM ET : This article has been updated to include 8x8 ’ s acquisition of Jitsi in 2018 .
Update August 7th , 11AM ET : This article was originally published on June 11th , and it has been updated to include the “ personal ” version of Microsoft Teams .

While many companies are encouraging their employees to return to the office, working remotely (when possible) seems to have caught on and is probably not going anywhere in the near future. Many of us are still using videoconferencing apps to keep in touch with work colleagues, family, and friends. Zoom continues to top the list of these meeting apps, but there are a bunch of other free applications out there that will allow you to meet others online.
What follows are descriptions of some of the more interesting free video conferencing apps. We’ve concentrated on applications that allow at least 10 or more participants. Rather than simply assume that Zoom is best for you, you may want to try one or two of these out for yourself to see how well they fit in with your style and that of your friends and / or colleagues. This list is a good place to start.
The most popular video meeting app
Zoom is one of the most widely used video meeting apps.
Zoom has become one of the most well-known videoconferencing apps — in fact, its name is practically synonymous with video meetings. Before the pandemic hit, the company marketed Zoom mostly for corporate use but included a free basic version for individuals. Since then, the company has introduced several different versions: Zoom One, its more traditional conferencing software; Zoom Events & Webinars; and Zoom Rooms, which provide breakout discussion areas.
The free version of Zoom allows up to 100 users to meet, but there is a 40-minute limit on meetings. Having enjoyed an increase in visibility since the beginning of the pandemic, Zoom still has a page offering help and advice to new users.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 40-minute time limit
Group meetings: 40-minute time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: Yes, locally
A longtime go-to for online calls
Skype’s Meet Now feature supports up to 50 people with a four-hour time limit.
Skype has been the go-to platform for one-on-one conversations since its beta was released in 2003. Its Meet Now feature allows for videoconferencing; up to 100 people (including you) can meet with a generous 24-hour time limit on meetings. You don’t even have to sign up for the service; there is a separate page that lets you create a free video meeting without having to actually sign up for the service (as long as you’re using either the Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome browser). However, you get more features using the app, so if you’re okay with registering for a free account, you may be better off doing that.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 24-hour time limit
Group meetings: 24-hour time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: Yes; recording stored for up to 30 days
A corporate app with a solid freemium version
Webex, a videoconferencing app that has been around since the ’90s, has a useful free version.
Webex is a videoconferencing app that has been around since the ’90s and was acquired by Cisco in 2007. While it’s been mainly known as a business application and continues to focus on serving companies, it does have a fairly generous free version that’s worth checking out. The freemium version allows for 100 participants, you can meet for up to 40 minutes, and you can create breakout rooms.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 40-minute time limit
Group meetings: 40-minute time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: Yes, locally
Accessible from your Gmail page
Google Meet is a video calling option that requires Google accounts to use.
Meet, which merged (sort of) with Google’s Duo last year, offers a very simple and efficient way to video chat with colleagues, friends, and family — assuming they all have Google accounts, which is a requirement for both hosts and participants. (And note that if you used to use the original Meet app, you’ll be asked to download the new one.) It’s easy to find: you can find a Meet link in the Gmail app and in every appointment you make using Google Calendar. And Meet has some neat features, including real-time captions.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 24-hour time limit
Group meetings: 60-minute time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
Not just for business
Microsoft Teams is a conferencing app that offers video meets as well.
Microsoft Teams is a competitor to Slack and an especially good idea if you’re part of the Office ecosystem. While the application is mainly focused on business use, a few years ago, Microsoft stepped out of its three-piece suit and unveiled a free personal version of Teams, which lets anyone chat, talk, or have video meetings in a virtual shared space — you just have to create an account with Microsoft in order to use it. While the free version lets you have 100 participants for a maximum of 60 minutes per meeting, subscribers to Microsoft 365 Personal can have up to 300 people video chat for up to 30 consecutive hours.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 30-hour limit
Group meetings: 60-minute limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
A wide-ranging suite of apps
The free version of Zoho Meeting offers a clean, easy-to-use interface.
Zoho offers a wide-ranging suite of online apps that range from the day to day (like email, calendars, and notebooks) to business and development (such as finance, HR, and marketing). The free version of Zoho Meeting allows up to 100 participants. Unusually, the free version doesn’t just include meetings but webinars as well (also with a limit of 100 attendees). Also worthy of mention is the company’s new Standard Edition, which starts at $1 a month for 10 participants (the price goes up with the number of participants) and adds features such as cloud recording, 24-hour meetings, and polls.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 60-minute limit
Group meetings: 60-minute limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
Innovative recording features
When you run a recording of your Vowel meeting, a graph below shows who was speaking when. A side panel can show meeting notes, a summary of the meeting, or the transcript.
Vowel is a new and innovative videoconferencing service with some very interesting features. It records and transcribes each meeting (you can choose not to record or turn the recording off at any time); the transcription includes any emoticons you may have used, and you can also drop in bookmarks to indicate good (or bad) points that you may want to reference later. The recording adds a graph that tracks who was speaking when. While the free version doesn’t let you download your recording, you can rewatch and search through it for the next seven days. A paid Business tier gives you access for as long as you wish.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 12
One-on-one meetings: 40 minutes
Group meetings: 40 minutes
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: Yes
Open source with plenty of features
Jitsi Meet is open source and filled with useful features.
Jitsi is an open-source platform that doesn’t require an account: you easily meet online by simply going to the site and clicking on Start meeting. If you’re a developer, you can build your own conferencing app via Jitsi Videobridge, and there is a paid business version called JaaS (“Jitsi as a Service”), but most people will be happy with the quick web version, which offers many features found in more well-known apps, such as fake backgrounds, chat, local session recording, and the ability to livestream to YouTube.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 500
One-on-one meetings: No time limit
Group meetings: No time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: Yes (by livestreaming to YouTube)
Single meeting rooms with up to 50 participants
Whereby’s meeting rooms offers up to 50 participants.
Whereby’s free version gives you the use of a single meeting room with up to 100 participants, along with the ability to lock rooms (participants have to “knock” to gain entrance). Each room has its own URL that you get to choose, which is great — assuming that nobody else has already taken that name. (For example, I first tried whereby.com/testroom and found it was already taken.) But it also has a chat function, lets you share a screen, allows you to mute or eject users, and offers breakout groups.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: No time limit
Group meetings: 45-minute limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
A wide range of free features
RingCentral Video Pro has a good toolbox of features.
RingCentral mainly sells business communications services but also offers a free video meeting app called RingCentral Video Pro. The app includes a nice range of features, including screen sharing, recordings (up to 10 hours and stored in the cloud for up to seven days), chat, closed captions, virtual backgrounds, and more. Previously, it also offered free users 24 hours of meeting time, but as of August 7th, 2023, that was cut to 50 minutes. (Paid users still get 24 hours.)
Free version features
Maximum participants: 100
One-on-one meetings: 24 hours (50-minute limit as of August 7th, 2023)
Group meetings: 24 hours (50-minute limit as of August 7th, 2023)
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: Yes (up to seven days)
A simple web-based system
Spike can be used without having to download anything.
Spike, an expanding email service, offers paid group videoconferencing to its subscribers, but it has also made a basic video meeting web app available to anyone who wants it. It’s quick and easy to use: just go to video.spike.chat, type in a name, and click on Join Meeting. Spike generates a unique URL for the chat and even lets you share your screen or change your background. And unlike most of the other services listed here, there is no maximum for participants.
Free version features
Maximum participants: No limit
One-on-one meetings: No time limit
Group meetings: No time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
A well-known chat app with videoconferencing added
Telegram has introduced group video chats. Image: Telegram
Telegram is a messaging chat app that offers video group chats also. It’s well set up for that: the app already has a feature that lets you create groups with up to 200,000 members, and you can have either private or public groups. Video chats are limited to 30 people (although up to 1,000 can watch); still, this was a welcome add-on for Telegram users.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 30
One-on-one meetings: No time limit
Group meetings: No time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
Up to 40 participants can use its Signal Calling Service
A group meeting starts as a text chat. Signal offers basic video meetings.
Signal is a communications app known for its emphasis on secure messaging via end-to-end encryption. Previously, it only allowed a maximum of five participants in its video calls; however, it now allows up to 40 people to take part via its own open-source Signal Calling Service. Signal is mainly meant for mobile devices; to use it on a desktop, you have to link it to an existing mobile app. Still, if you already use Signal messaging, you now have the option to use it as a meeting app as well.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 40
One-on-one meetings: No time limit
Group meetings: No time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
Group FaceTime
Not necessarily for Apple only
Group FaceTime now accommodates both iOS and Android users. Image: Apple
iPhone owners will, no doubt, already be using Apple’s built-in video chat app, but since the app was recently updated to accommodate those not in the Apple ecosystem, it has become even more useful. You can start a group call from a Messages chat, add a variety of stickers, and even blur your background. However, while you can join a group FaceTime session from Android or Windows, you can’t initiate one.
Free version features
Maximum participants: 33
One-on-one meetings: No time limit
Group meetings: No time limit
Screen sharing: Yes
Record meetings: No
More alternatives
There are other Zoom alternatives out there, including RemoteHQ and Talky. Some of these don’t have a free version, or the number of participants who can use the free version is limited.
The popular text chat app Slack is mainly set up for text chat, with an added Huddles feature available for the occasional audio or video get-together — however, the free version only allows one-to-one Huddles. And if you use Facebook, you can create a video meeting with your Facebook group using the Rooms feature.