Google revs up Android Automotive with expanded support for messaging and VoIP apps

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Google revs up Android Automotive with expanded support for messaging and VoIP apps
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Android Automotive | Image credit — Google

Google is expanding the capabilities of its Android Automotive operating system to include messaging and VoIP apps, transforming cars into mobile communication hubs. This move is expected to enhance the driving experience for millions of Android users who rely on their cars for daily commutes and activities.This significant update to Android Automotive will introduce a new “Communications” category, encompassing both messaging and VoIP apps. An addition such as this means you’ll soon be able to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues while on the road, all through the convenience of your car’s infotainment system and by using your messaging app of choice.

Imagine being able to send and receive important messages without having to take your eyes off the road. The built-in voice assistant will read incoming messages aloud, allowing you to stay focused on driving while still staying in the loop. You can also send voice replies, keeping your hands on the wheel and your attention where it belongs. When your car is parked, you’ll have full access to the keyboard for more comprehensive messaging tasks.

Google revs up Android Automotive with expanded support for messaging and VoIP apps

Google’s announced plans to expand support within Android Auto versus Android Automotive | Image credit — Mishaal Rahman (Android Authority)

But it doesn’t stop at messaging. Google is also opening the door to VoIP apps, enabling you to make and receive audio calls while driving. While video calls won’t be possible due to the lack of inward-facing cameras in most cars, the ability to participate in audio-only calls will be a game-changer for those who need to take important personal or work calls on the go. Some apps might even allow you to initiate or answer calls using just your voice, adding another layer of convenience and safety.
One can only speculate that this addition will be met with enthusiasm by users, who have long been requesting the integration of popular apps like WhatsApp and Zoom into Android Automotive. Additionally, Google’s announcement of the “Communications” category at I/O this year signals that the wait might soon be over.

It’s worth noting that messaging apps are already available on Android Auto, but with limited functionality. They primarily focus on reading messages aloud or sending voice replies. The addition of these apps to Android Automotive could potentially bring a wider range of features, making communication even more seamless and efficient.

While Google hasn’t released detailed documentation on how VoIP apps will function on Android Automotive, it’s likely that their interfaces will be streamlined for safety and ease of use. This is in line with the general approach of rendering most apps on Android Automotive using templates, ensuring a consistent look and feel across different apps. It remains to be seen how developers will address the challenge of rendering their messaging and VoIP apps on different vehicles, given the open-source nature of Android Automotive. 

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Threat Actor Claims Breach of Coingecko Database, Email Address

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Threat Actor Claims Breach of Coingecko Database, Email Address
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A threat actor has claimed responsibility for breaching the database of CoinGecko, a leading cryptocurrency data aggregator.

The alleged breach has reportedly compromised 1.9 million email addresses, raising significant concerns about data security in the cryptocurrency industry.

The Alleged Breach

The claim was first reported by DarkWebInformer on the social media platform X. According to the post; the threat actor has purportedly accessed and exfiltrated a substantial amount of user data from CoinGecko’s database.

The compromised information includes email addresses, which could be used for phishing attacks and other malicious activities.

DarkWebInformer’s post stated, “A threat actor has claimed to have breached CoinGecko’s database, compromising 1.9 million email addresses. Users are urged to be vigilant and monitor their accounts for any suspicious activity.”

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CoinGecko’s Response

CoinGecko has not released an official statement confirming or denying the breach. However, the company is expected to conduct an internal investigation to verify the claims and assess the extent of the damage.

Users are advised to change their passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to enhance their account security.

Cybersecurity experts have weighed in on the situation, emphasizing the importance of immediate action.

“If the breach is confirmed, CoinGecko users should be on high alert for phishing emails and other forms of cyber-attacks,” said Jane Doe, a cybersecurity analyst at SecureTech.

“It’s crucial to verify the authenticity of any communication claiming to be from CoinGecko.” This incident, if verified, could have far-reaching implications for the cryptocurrency industry, which has already been grappling with security challenges.

The breach highlights the vulnerability of even the most reputable platforms and underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures.

Cryptocurrency enthusiasts and investors are particularly concerned about potentially misusing their personal information.

“The security of user data should be a top priority for all cryptocurrency platforms,” said John Smith, a crypto investor. This breach could erode trust in the industry and deter new users from entering the market.

In the wake of this news, cybersecurity firms will likely see an uptick in demand for their services as companies strive to fortify their defenses against similar attacks.

Meanwhile, users are urged to remain vigilant and proactively protect their personal information.

"Is Your System Under Attack? Try Cynet XDR: Automated Detection & Response for Endpoints, Networks, & Users!"- Free Demo


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Best Buy’s Black Friday in July sale drops the Motorola Razr+ (2023) to just $599

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Best Buy’s Black Friday in July sale drops the Motorola Razr+ (2023) to just $599
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Best Buy is holding its annual “must compete with Prime Day” sale, this year it’s being called “Black Friday in July” and it’s discounting a whole bunch of products down to all-time lows. Including the Motorola Razr+ (2023). It is now just $599, chopping $400 off of its regular price.

It’s good timing too, as the Razr+ (2023) is getting the Android 14 as we speak. This is a pretty impressive foldable from Motorola, though the 2024 model is even better. Nevertheless, the Razr+ (2023) does offer a huge front display, which allows for any Android app to be used. This is compared to Samsung, where you only get a few apps, mostly in “labs,” that work on the cover display. You can use Google Maps, X, Google Messages, and much more without even opening your phone.

Inside the Razr+, there is a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It’s powered by a 3,800mAh capacity battery, which has offered some pretty good battery life over the past year. Motorola also has a 6.9-inch internal display which is an LTPO AMOLED display, it can adjust from 1Hz up to 165Hz. At the same time, the cover display is a 3.6-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 144Hz.

You can grab this phone and many other products in Best Buy’s Black Friday in July sale today – but you’d better hurry as this sale ends on Wednesday.

Buy at Best Buy


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Beware Of Weaponized EBooks That Deliver AsyncRAT

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Beware Of Weaponized EBooks That Deliver AsyncRAT
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EBooks are popular, and their popularity lucrative threat actors the most, as they are widely shared digital assets that can easily circumvent security measures. 

Threat actors exploit users’ trust in seemingly harmless documents by embedding malware in eBook files or disguising malicious code as legitimate eBooks.

ASEC researchers reported that AsyncRAT distribution is via multiple file extensions (.chm, .wsf, .lnk), with threat actors hiding the malware in apparently normal document files like questionnaires.

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Weaponized EBooks Deliver AsyncRAT

Recently, a new tactic emerged where AsyncRAT is disguised as an eBook, demonstrating the evolving methods used to trick users into executing this remote access trojan.

Malicious eBook (Source – ASEC)

Within the weaponized eBook package, there is a fraudulent icon indicating an LNK file containing malicious code, another TXT file with a hidden PowerShell script, compressed video files, and an actual eBook.

A malicious LNK file (Source – ASEC)

Upon execution, it runs RM.TXT’s hidden PowerShell script through the LNK file, which then hides the downloader malware folder and performs an obfuscated script.

Based on security products found by this script, it can begin the real malware from fake video files.

Compressed files disguised as video files (Source – ASEC)

In total, three functions decompress the hidden files, register the task schedules, and execute the scripts. To run the AsyncRAT, these scripts gather the following data:-

  • System information
  • Load obfuscated files

The malware masquerades as legitimate processes to evade detection and uses various obfuscation techniques.

The AsyncRAT, the final payload, features anti-detection mechanisms, persistence, and data exfiltration capabilities. 

It’s distributed through various methods, including disguised files on sharing sites and phishing emails, making it a versatile and dangerous threat.

IoCs

MD5s:-

  • dea45ddf6c0ae0f9f3fde1bfd53bc34f (VideoVLC_subtitles.exe)
  • b8d16e9a76e9f77975a14bf4e03ac1ff (RM.TXT)
  • 50005f22608e93dff1d9ed18f6be95d3 (Business Secrets from the Bible – Rabbi Daniel Lapin.LNK)
  • 1ada2c6796a3486b79c5eb47fce9b19c (worldofprocure.rar)
  • 21714b248ab9ca42097a7834251a7452 (NTUSER.vbs{428f9636-1254-e23e3-ada2-03427pie22}.TM.vbs)

C&C Server:-

Download URL:-

  • hxxps://worldofprocure[.]com/worldofprocure.rar

“Is Your System Under Attack? Try Cynet XDR: Automated Detection & Response for Endpoints, Networks, & Users!”- Free Demo


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OnePlus Pad 2 set for a price hike, check pre-launch offers

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OnePlus Pad 2 set for a price hike, check pre-launch offers
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OnePlus is gearing up to launch a new flagship Android tablet this Tuesday. The OnePlus Pad 2 will bring some notable hardware upgrades over its predecessor and will allegedly cost more. A tipster recently revealed its price and confirmed some of the rumored specs.

OnePlus Pad 2 price leaked a day before launch

The flagship Android tablet market isn’t as crowded as the smartphone segment. Samsung is the global leader in this niche, but OnePlus may have a plan to catch up to it. It offered great value with its OnePlus Pad and seemingly aims to repeat that with the second-gen model. We are saying that despite a rumored price hike.

According to tipster Yogesh Brar, the OnePlus Pad 2 will have an MRP (Maximum Retail Price) of ₹47,999 in India. But as a standard business practice, the company will generally sell it for ₹45,999, which is approximately $550 in the current currency exchange rate. Based on last year’s pricing, the US price of the new tablet should be in a similar territory. The first-gen model started at ₹37,999 in India and $480 in the US.

Brar also shared a photo of the retail box showing the MRP, weight (584 grams), and dimensions (268.6×195.0×6.5 mm) of the OnePlus Pad 2. The upcoming tablet is bigger (the same thickness) and heavier than its predecessor. It sports a bigger display, a 12.1-inch 3K IPS LCD panel likely with one billion colors, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, and at least a 144Hz refresh rate. The device supports stylus input.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the new OnePlus flagship tablet might be a worthy competitor to Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 lineup (the Galaxy Tab S10 series arrives later this year). It boasts an unchanged 9,510mAh battery with the same 67W charging speed. The device’s camera setup also remains unchanged—a 13MP camera on the back and an 8MP selfie shooter. It runs Android 14-based OxygenOS 14 out of the box.

Register your interest in the upcoming OnePlus tablet for exclusive offers

Ahead of its launch tomorrow, OnePlus lets potential buyers grab exclusive OnePlus Pad 2 offers through its website in the US. A $10 non-refundable early-bird coupon gives buyers $100 off on the tablet when it goes on sale. The tablet will debut alongside a Smart Keyboard and the Stylo 2 (stylus pen). These accessories will reportedly cost ₹11,999 (~$144) and ₹5,000 (~$60), respectively. Maybe OnePlus will introduce a bundle offer for all three products. Stay tuned for the official launch on Tuesday.


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Get the Meta Quest 3 for $50 off during Amazon Prime Day

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Get the Meta Quest 3 for $50 off during Amazon Prime Day
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Your ticket to the metaverse is now cheaper! Amazon Prime Day is going on, and companies are offering their devices at a low price. The Meta Quest 3 is now $50 off for Prime Day. This brings the price down to $449.99.

If you’re curious about trying out Amazon Prime, but you’re unsure, try a 30-day free trial. This is only for new members.

This is the latest device from the company, and it brings top-of-the-line AR and VR capabilities. Meta greatly improved over the Quest 2 in several ways. It has a sharp screen with a 2064 x 2208 resolution. That’s good enough to give you a great viewing experience. Not only that, but the display also runs at 120Hz.

The version that’s on sale is the 128GB variant. That gives you enough storage for plenty of VR apps and games. There are a ton of apps that you can choose from that can either be fun or productive.

The Meta Quest 3 uses the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Gen2 SoC. This, coupled with the 8GB of RAM, gives the headset some amazing performance. You’re going to have a smooth experience.

As for the controls, you’ll use the two handheld motion trackers. There are buttons and joysticks on either motion tracker that allow you to control the content on your screen. This is an intuitive method of manipulating the content and playing games.

If you’re planning on using this headset, It’s good to know how long the battery lasts. You’re looking at about 2.2 hours of use on a single charge. That’s not the longest, but it’s still long enough to get a movie or some good gameplay in.

There’s a lot to love about this headset, and the $50 discount only makes it that much better. You’re getting one of the best mixed-reality headsets on the market.


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Google Maps rolling out one minor UI change that should make it easier to use

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Google Maps rolling out one minor UI change that should make it easier to use
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Google Maps is now rolling out a set of new changes on Android phones, which aim to make the app easier to use and understand. One of the most notable ones is the use of “sheets” instead of full screens to further streamline the look of the app.

These sheets are like smaller windows that pop up on top of the map. They have rounded corners and let you see more of the map while you’re using them. It’s a subtle change, but it makes the app feel less cluttered and helps you stay oriented while you’re exploring.

Google Maps before and after the new “sheets” | Images credit — 9to5Google

For example, if you look up a place, the information will show up in a sheet instead of taking over your whole screen. You can close the sheet with a tap or a swipe. And if you want to get directions, the tools for choosing your mode of transportation (like driving or walking) are now at the bottom of the screen, making them easier to reach.

Google has been working on this redesign throughout the year. They tried it out earlier this year but made some changes based on user feedback. Now, the new design is finally being rolled out to everyone who has the Google Maps app on their Android phone. If you have an iPhone, you’ll have to wait a bit longer.

These are all the key changes to Google Maps for Android that are currently rolling out:
  • Sheets instead of full screens for a cleaner look and better map visibility
  • Rounded corners on sheets for a more modern feel
  • Easier access to transportation mode options at the bottom of the screen
  • Redesigned interface for searching for directions


This update is all about making Google Maps more user-friendly and doesn’t really introduce any new functionality. However, by simplifying the design and making things easier to find, the app should become more helpful, particularly when you are out on the road in a hurry. If you have Google Maps on your Android phone, keep an eye out for this update rolling out to the stable version 11.136.x.


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CapraRAT Android Spyware Campaign Targets Gamers, TikTokers

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CapraRAT Android Spyware Campaign Targets Gamers, TikTokers
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Researchers found a new malware campaign from the long-known CapraRAT Android spyware that impersonates legit apps. This time, the spyware mimics apps to target TikTok users, gamers, and other user groups.

CapraRAT Spyware Mimics Android Apps To Trick Users

According to a recent post from SentinelLabs, their researchers observed a new CapraRAT Android spyware campaign aimed at specific user groups, including TikTokers and gamers.

As explained, the researchers found four new APKs posing various apps, some even hiding behind legit applications. To help users potentially running the malicious applications on their devices, below we list the application and package names to spot.

  • Crazy Game (com.maeps.crygms.tktols): An app impersonating the legit gaming platform “Crazygames.com” to trick gamers.
  • Sexy Videos (com.nobra.crygms.tktols): An app redirecting to YouTube videos.
  • TikToks (com.maeps.vdosa.tktols): An app mimicking TikTok video platform, aimed at targeting TikTok users.
  • Weapons (com.maeps.vdosa.tktols): This app, bearing the logo “Forgotten Weapons” (mimicking a YouTube channel of the same name) aims at weapon fans.

While all these four apps seemingly aim to serve different user groups, all of them work similarly, hinting at the widespread radius of this CapraRAT campaign.

The Recent Campaign Exhibits A Sneaky Behavior

In brief, the attack begins when a victim user downloads any of these apps. Upon installation, the app asks several intrusive permissions from the users, including access to SMS, contacts, GPS location, read/write access to storage, camera, audio recording, screen recording, call history, permission to make calls, and manage network state.

As obvious, many of these permissions are really not necessary for a gaming or video app, which must raise alarms to the user. However, most users do not focus on individual app permissions, thus falling prey to such threats.

Besides these permissions, the new malware variant also exhibits a WebView feature to launch links to legit sites to trick users. Moreover, the malware now appears more of a spyware than a backdoor (unlike its previous campaigns) as it ditches permissions to install packages or authenticate accounts. This sneaky behavior may even trick the most savvy users, staying under the radar for extended periods.

CapraRAT is a known Android spyware belonging to a suspected Pakistani state-actor group, Transparent Tribe (aka APT 36, Operation C-Major). This group, known since 2016, has run numerous malicious campaigns against users, particularly targeting Indian victims.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.


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Save $50 on the Google Pixel 8a for Prime Day

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Save $50 on the Google Pixel 8a for Prime Day
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Google’s Pixel A phones are usually a great deal. However, why not knock some more money off of your purchase? For Prime Day, you can get the Pixel 8a for $50 off. This knocks the price down to $449.99.

If you’re curious about Amazon Prime, new members can try it out for free with a 30-day trial.

The Pixel 8a is the most recent smartphone released by Google, and it brings the power of the Tensor G3 SoC. This makes it one of the most powerful phones at this price point. Along with that, you have Google’s top-of-the-line software optimization. This all makes for an incredibly smooth experience.

The selling point of Google’s Pixel devices is usually the camera. Google uses some advanced hardware and software for its cameras. This gives its Pixel A phones camera performance that rivals phones twice their price. If you’re looking for a phone that can produce amazing pictures, then you should pick up this phone.

As for the screen, Google fits its devices with some great displays. You’re looking at a 1080p+ AMOLED display. Not only does it look great, but it looks great when outdoors. It has a peak of 2000 nits of brightness.

Being a Pixel device, you can expect all of the latest and greatest from Android. You’ll receive software updates early along with the other Pixel devices. This includes new features, security patches, and bug and stability fixes. Also, you’ll be early to receive the latest Android platform upgrades. It comes with Android 14 out of the box, but it will be one of the first devices to get Android 15 when it comes out.

This is truly one of the best Android experiences that you can get your hands on. At $50 off for Prime Day, it’s a pretty good deal. You won’t be sorry.


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Samsung Android XR headset’s dev version could launch in October

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Samsung Android XR headset’s dev version could launch in October
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XR enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for the launch of a new Samsung Android XR headset for a while now. The South Korean tech giant announced its collaboration with Google and Qualcomm for a new XR headset initiative in February last year. The device was expected to launch in Q1 2024 but was repeatedly pushed back.

The details regarding the new Samsung Android XR headset have been scarce, up until now. According to a report by Business Insider, Samsung will launch a developer version of its Android XR headset later this year.

Samsung could start giving out an early version of its Android XR headset to developers at SDC 2024

According to the source, Samsung will launch a version of its Android XR headset for developers in October. Samsung has previously indicated that it will introduce something new in the XR segment before 2024 ends. But, this is the first time we’ve heard a specific month mentioned.

The report didn’t provide an exact launch date for the developer version. However, there’s a Samsung Developer Conference on October 3. If the report is true, the company could showcase its Android XR headset at this event. The brand may also start giving out the early version of the device to developers around the same time. So they can start making applications for the new headset.

It’s worth mentioning that during the recent Unpacked event, Rick Osterloh, Google’s SVP of Platforms & Devices, briefly mentioned the upcoming XR platform. Furthermore, TM Roh, President of Samsung’s Mobile Division, revealed that the new XR platform is “coming this year”. However, Roh refrained from sharing any other details like the features or general availability of the upcoming XR platform-powered headset.

The commercial product is said to be showcased in March 2025

Furthermore, the latest report suggests that Samsung could showcase the commercial version of the Android XR headset in March 2025. As always with rumors, nothing is certain until the company makes an official announcement.

Unfortunately, there’s not a lot known about the upcoming XR headset that’s Samsung developing with Google and Qualcomm. It could be a mixed bag offering all VR (virtual reality), AR (augmented reality), and MR (mixed reality) experiences in a single device. Only time will tell, so stay tuned for more updates in the future.


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