Microsoft’s passwordless plans lets users switch to app-based login

Microsoft has announced users can now delete all passwords from their accounts and instead login using an authenticator app or other solution. The technology giant made passwordless accounts available for business users of its products in March. And that system is now being made available to all Microsoft or Windows users. It said “nearly 100% […]

Apple rushes to block ‘zero-click’ iPhone spyware

Apple has issued a software patch to block so-called “zero-click” spyware that could infect iPhones and iPads. Independent researchers identified the flaw, which lets hackers access devices through the iMessage service even if users do not click on a link or file. The problem affects all of the technology giant’s operating systems, the researchers said. […]

Apple iPhone risk from powerful motorbike vibrations

IPhone owners should beware picking up bad vibrations from powerful motorbikes, as they may damage camera systems, Apple has said. The technology giant published a warning iPhones should not be attached to powerful bikes, in a support document spotted by MacRumors. Engine vibrations can harm phones’ optical-image stabilisation or closed-loop autofocus systems, it says. Owners […]

Apple dealt major blow in Epic Games trial

Apple has been dealt a major blow in its ongoing trial against Fortnite-maker Epic Games. A court in Oakland, California, has ruled that Apple cannot stop app developers directing users to third-party payment options. Apple had argued that all apps should use Apple’s own in-app payment options. In a high profile trial, Epic Games had […]

‘Anti-radiation’ phone stickers still sold on Amazon

Stickers that claim to protect users against electromagnetic fields (EMF) from phones remain for sale on Amazon. The listings remain eight months after scientists told the BBC the smartDOT stickers had “no effect”. This week the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) also criticised the claims on the makers’ website. The firm has told the BBC it […]

Starmer should be inspired by Biden over workers’ rights – TUC leader

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer should take inspiration from US President Joe Biden in promoting workers’ rights, the head of the UK’s unions has argued. TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said better pay and conditions must become “absolutely central” to the party’s pitch to voters. She praised Mr Biden for making the “dignity of work” […]

Tripwire boss steps down over support for Texas abortion law

The president of game-studio Tripwire Interactive has stepped down after tweeting support for a controversial new abortion law in Texas. The Texas law bans abortions from as early as six weeks into pregnancy. John Gibson tweeted he was “proud” of the legal outcome and was a “a pro-life game developer”. Some of the studio’s partners […]

TikTok overtakes YouTube for average watch time in US and UK

App users in the UK and US are spending more time on TikTok than on YouTube, a new report suggests. Data from app monitoring firm App Annie indicates that average time per user spent on the apps is higher for TikTok, indicating high levels of engagement. App Annie characterised TikTok as having “upended the streaming […]

Apple delays plan to scan iPhones for child abuse

Apple has delayed plans to roll out detection technology which would have scanned US users’ iPhones in search of child sexual abuse material. It follows widespread criticism from privacy groups and others, worried that the on-device tracking set a dangerous precedent. Apple said that it had listened to the negative feedback and was reconsidering. There […]